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Volume VI / May 2014
DIVIDED AUSTIN
A World-Class City Where Citizens Are
Worlds Apart
INSIDE Small/Minority Business Bollywood + Borscht Belt Pachanga Music Fest Cinco de Mayo
FEATURED MAY 2014 EVENTS:
FREE
Ney Day: Women-focused music, art, activities and more! Saturday, May 3, 12pm-5pm, Elisabet Ney Museum 304 E. 44th Street - www.elisabetney.org
O. Henry Pun-Off: Live music and pun for the whole family! Saturday, May 10, 11am-6pm, O. Henry Museum 409 E. 5th Street - www.ohenrymuseum.org
Rice: A celebration of Asian American culinary pursuits!
Saturday, May 17, 10am-4pm, Asian American Resource Center 8401 Cameron Road - www.austintexas.gov/AARC
FREE Featured this month:
Global Grooves, Austin Moves www.austintexas.gov/planetmusic
1001 Nights Orchestra Ravaan Persian Dancers and Austin International Folk Dancers
Friday, May 23, 7pm - 9pm, Free. Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd
Visit our Facebook page for all upcoming events! www.facebook.com/ArtsInParks The City of Austin is proud to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require assistance for participation in our programs or use of our facilities, please call 512-974-4000.
C E N T R O U R B A N A HABLA Austin
Martinez proposes Onion Creek buyouts Austin City Council Member Mike Martinez announced in late April a two part proposal to buy out all of the homes in the 25 year and 100 year Onion Creek floodplain, and also homes located in the 25 year Williamson Creek floodplain. “We have heard overwhelming feedback from the community that more help is needed from the City to address long-term needs in the flood recovery efforts,” said Martinez. On June 26, City staff will present an item to issue about $30 million to buy out victims of the October flood. Martinez will sponsor a resolution that will come before Council on May 15 to ask the City Manager to include a $0.7516 increase in the monthly drainage charge that would provide enough funding to cover a buyout for all of these homes. “We believe these plans give us an affordable option for residents that will allow us to meet the needs of the flood survivors as expeditiously as possible while potentially preventing future devastation,” said Martinez. MACC Board-HQLI Commission merger cut off at the pass In November, 2013, the Austin City Council adopted a resolution creating the “Boards and Commissions Transition Taskforce” and initiated meetings in early February, 2014, which continued through the end of April, 2014. The Taskforce at some point will develop a set of recommendations that eventually will be forwarded to the Austin City Council for consideration. On April 21, Paul Saldaña reported to Latino community leaders that, “among the recommendations by this Taskforce is to combine the Mexican-American Cultural Center Board with the newly created and appointed Hispanic Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission. This is yet another example of the cultural values disconnect and an effort to minimize the significance of both the MACC and HQLI.” Council Member Mike Martinez responded, “Combining boards should only be considered where
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the interests and issues at stake are closely related, and where consolidation won’t limit necessary resources and discussion time for these groups. While I’m generally open to recommendations from the taskforce on this issue overall, I will not support merging the Mexican-American Cultural Center Advisory Board and the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission. Both of these bodies serve critical functions for our community, and have wholly different focuses. We need to ensure that moving forward these bodies are able to operate separately so that they can have the bandwidth and resources necessary to continue their work.”
Un-making of a segregated community What are bridge building, race relations, equity and inclusion conversations, actions, policies we didn’t want to deal with then and we don’t want to deal with today? On Saturday, May 3, 9-11:30 a.m. at St. James Episcopal Church, the public is invited to participate in a conversation on these topics at the First Saturday Building Bridges forum. Also on May 3, from 1:30-3 p.m. at Millennium Youth Entertainment Complex, Travis County Sheriff’s Office Building Bridges: Brick by Brick Town Hall will examine eliminating crime and violence in the Travis County/Austin Capital area. Latino participation in the arts to be examined Bellas Artes Alliance will convene a panel of Corporate CEOs and Latino creative professionals to explore concrete proposals to advance the participation and contribution of Latinos to Austin’s creative economy as artists, producers, entrepreneurs and other creative professionals. “We believe the time has come for us to engage in a dialogue that focuses on nurturing the creative minds in our community, both artistically and economically,” said BAA Chair Andy Ramirez. The panel is from 6-8 p.m. in the Auditorium at the ESB-Mexican American Cultural Center on Tuesday, May 27. Las Comadres has a YouTube channel Nora Comstock, President and CEO of Las Comadres para las Americas, announced the launch of the organization new YouTube channel. The Las Comadres channel has rows of different types of videos: Las Comadres events; videos featuring interviews with Nora; videos about Las Comadres in general; and channels of other Comadres. To check it out, go to http://www.youtube.com/ lascomadresorg.
Volume VI, Number 1 PUBLISHER/EDITOR // Gavin Lance Garcia info@todoaustin.com ART DIRECTOR // Dave McClinton // dmdesigninc.com ASSOCIATE EDITORS // Evelyn C. Castillo, Paul Saldaña, Katie Walsh, Erica Stall Wiggins SENIOR EDITORS // Lobo Corona, Sonia Kotecha, Diana Sanchez, Lesley Varghese, Yvonne Lim Wilson CONTRIBUTING EDITORS // Anthony Garcia, Mia Garcia, Harish Kotecha, Alexandra M. Landeros, Callie Langford, Genoveva Rodriguez, Monica Peña, Blake Shanley
Adler Promises ‘New Way Forward’ as Mayor
“I’ve spent my adult life building bridges to connect Austin’s diverse communities,” said Steve Adler, who along with family, friends and supporters, will launch his campaign to become Austin’s next mayor on Sunday, May 4, at 3:30 p.m. at Austin City Hall. The free event is open to the public and will include complimentary food, drinks, music and entertainment.
outsider to the political process, Adler has a 35-year history as an advocate for education, civil rights, cultural arts and equality.
“I’m looking forward to the next seven months discussion about the challenges Austin now faces and has been facing for some time,” said Adler. “We must find new long-term solutions to out-ofcontrol traffic, help our schools, share prosperity and make Austin affordable for all of our families. Austin deserves a leader who understands our unique culture and how we can and must preserve that culture as we continue to grow and prosper. “Come see what I have to say about our City and the challenges we face as we create together a new system of government and chart a new way forward.” For more about the campaign, go to adlerforaustin.com
“Everything we do to make Austin more inclusive enriches us all and is necessary to find the shared visions that can unify a city in common purpose.” Adler will make remarks at the kick-off on the challenges our city faces and how he will approach solving them. “The decisions we make in this election will set the course for Austin for years to come,” states Adler. “Whether you’ve got a plan for your neighborhood, an idea about how to fight gridlock, or a new priority you believe should be raised, I’m asking for your help starting a big conversation. Make sure your voice is heard, so I can make sure our city government works for you.” The University of Texas Law School graduate has been a citizen of Austin since the late 1970s. Although a bit of an
Contributing Writers/Photographers/Artists // Güner Arslan, Skylar Bonilla, Maria Cristina GutierrezBoswell, Adriana Cadena, Roy Casagranda, Cindy Casares, Priscilla Cortez, Ruben Cubillos, Nora De LaRosa, Rose Di Grazia, Christian Gonzalez, Laura Donnelly Gonzalez, Harmony Eichsteadt, Layla Fry, Jessica Garza Cherry, Mark Guerra, Mari Hernandez, Ryan Hutchison, Yadira Izquierdo, Korina Jaimes, Chaille Jolink, Ryan Jordan, Jennifer Kim, Ramey Ko, Heather Lee, Julia Lee, Liz Lopez, Otis Lopez, David Marks, JoJo Marion, Caitlin Moore, Shivgami Natesan, Cristina Parker, Joy Pecoraro, Esther Reyes, Marion Sanchez, Parc Smith, Dani Slabaugh, Corey Tabor, Blanca Valencia, Kristina Vallejo, Tara Veneruso, Joseph P.A. Villescas, Bowen Wilder. Web Design // Mike Hernandez Cover //Celebrating cinco años
TODO Austin: Multicultural Media for All of Austin. TODO Austin is a free print and online journal for all of Austin highlighting our multicultural heritage and promoting the concept of community in an ethnically diverse city. Circulation throughout Austin, from the Westside’s Pennybacker Bridge to the Eastside’s Montopolis Bridge. TODO Austin is published by Spark Awakened Publishing. © 2014 Spark Awakened Publishing. All rights reserved. The views expressed here are the authors and should not be taken to represent those of Spark Awakened Publishing or of any of its associates or partners. ADVERTISING/SUBMISSIONS/EDITORIAL: info@todoaustin.com, 512.538.4115 TODO AUSTIN // MAY 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 03
The Marginalized Man, the Privileged Marine By María Cristina Gutiérrez-Boswell
On March 29, the “Texas Capitol Vietnam Veterans Monument Dedication” honoring Texas Vietnam Veterans was held on the east lawn of the capitol. I was in the “Gold” section. It was a sacred area, haunted by the memories of those who sat there. It was reserved for the family and friends of those who were killed (KIA) or presumed dead (MIA). I sat, alongside my mother and hundreds of others, in lieu of a dear friend of mine who lost his father in Vietnam. I was proud of their service, but not everyone present felt the same. There were some who thought that the event was a mistake, that the dedication “glorified” war. It was mostly my fellow liberals/feminists who held this attitude, naively viewing the scene through the lens of their dominant privilege, who think my father, and Mario, are “war-mongers,” as if my dad and Mario had the same entitlements under the law as themselves before they enlisted. Never mind that my father and Mario joined when ink on the Civil Rights Act was still wet. Never mind my friend lost his father. My father, Juan Ramón Gutierrez, a USMC combat veteran, served with my friend’s father, Mario Ybarra, in “Thundering Third,” 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Division. Mario was killed during “Operation Utah” on March 5, 1966. My father survived, but was wounded. He then went on to serve in a total of 17 “operations,” and not because he volunteered for them out of “romantic heroics,” but as he said, because “I wasn’t dead, was there, so they sent me.” My father did not join the Marine Corps because it was “cool.” He grew up poor. Raised by his grandmother, he worked from the age of five, scraping money together to eke out a
living. Being a Latino and poor is different than being White and poor. The laws of the South explain much of that. He didn’t plan his life beyond joining the service. He did not plan for war. He simply took the next logical step in order to earn money to care for his “güelita.” And he entered one of the few occupations accepting applications from poor, Latino men. A South Texas “barrio boy” definitely not glorifying war. He joined the military, ironically, to survive. I recently watched a clip of MIT professor Noam Chomsky who, in a 1989 lecture, quoted Harold Lasswell: “We should not succumb to democratic dogmatisms about men being the best judges of their own interests. They are not. The best judges are the elites, us smart guys, the cool observers. We must therefore be ensured the means to impose our will for the common good. This will require a whole new technique, largely through propaganda because of the ignorance and superstition of the masses.” Vietnam was a rich man’s war fought by the poor man. “The ignorance and superstition of the masses” is preyed upon and aimed at the marginalized. They are easily manipulated by the “cool observers” because of their oppressed status. It is common knowledge that Vietnam was mainly fought by a disproportionate amount of non-White men (those who lacked privilege). So why is anyone still protesting Vietnam? My father hates war. Only those who “glorify” war, or say others are “glorifying” war, are the ones who haven’t been to war. Above all, the protesters at the capitol judged my father, and Mario, through privileged glasses. My father will be the first to say, “it’s their right,” while simultaneously embracing that it is now his “privilege,” to feel privileged, to call himself a Marine. Austin resident María Cristina GutiérrezBoswell is a double-major in PS and WGSS at Oregon State University.
How Productive is City’s Small and Minority Business Resource Department? By Joy Pecoraro
I have been addressing Austin City Council about the importance of the growing minority population in Austin, and will continue to do so in the next few months over a series of scheduled presentations.
What city council is unaware of is that consultants are being hired to guide the companies through this process, which has become a checklist rather than a project. These consultants are part of the caste system and lack innovation because of the lack of competition. City council is unable to see the detail in which these topics are being addressed because much of the responsibility is left to the SMBR Department and their committees that are ran by vendors that have had access to consistent large contracts funded by taxpayer money.
One of my chief interests is the Minority and Women Business Enterprise (MWBE) Program, which exists to provide opportunities for business owners and professionals in the local community. The Small and Minority Business Resource Department (SMBR) oversees the program which provides free certification for those that are interested in city contracts. Data shows that people are either not choosing to get certified or are unaware the program even exists. Currently, less than 0.1 percent of minorities are certified as an MWBE with the city, and 99.9 percent of minorities are not certified; therefore, they’re missing out on a piece of the action that could potentially make a positive impact in many households. Since 2010, the total number of certified firms has decreased every year as the program’s budget increases. Today, SMBR Department’s annual budget is $3.2 million and since its inception in 1987, its goal has been to show productive growth. However, the question today is how productive has that growth actually been? Although goals are being met in certain areas, there is no way to monitor how many new vendors are being given business opportunities. There also isn’t a system monitoring why firms are choosing not to recertify each year given the program is free of charge. Speculation is now aimed at demonstrating how effective outreach efforts have been and why the same vendors are given consistent contracts. It seems that although the goal is to positively impact economic growth, a caste system is being formed within the minority community. This group of elites consists of those that “work the system” and are aware of the back door entrance while the majority of minority business owners live in the dark about the program or are discouraged from participating in government procurement opportunities. City council has made many efforts to implement policy that addresses many local economic concerns. One of those efforts is seen when
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companies receive tax incentives to relocate, the companies are mandated to follow city code such as Chapter 380 in hopes of forcing them to give back in a way that will make a positive difference in the community.
This issue is one of great concern because it has the ability to change the Austin culture. By not participating in socioeconomic issues, Austin residents are harming themselves and their city. We all benefit from a number of positive things currently happening in our community but, without the diversified culture, Austin will be less attractive in the future. If poverty rates and other local economic concerns continue to be negatively affected, council will only continue to make more policy changes that could discourage companies from coming to Austin, ultimately damaging our economy. It is important that minorities have access to the overabundance of opportunities in order to influence many of the socioeconomic issues we face today. Austin needs to keep its flare and diversity by encouraging more people to participate in the growing economy. Joy Pecoraro is owner of a business development and public relations agency, The Texas Pros. Joy speaks and examines topics such as: the impact of economic growth; minorities in Austin; and education.
Join us for Mother’s Day craft time Saturday, May 10, 11 a.m.2 p.m. Make cards and crafts for your Mom. To RSVP for this free event, call (512) 974-4926 The Carver is seeking vendors for our Juneteenth Marketplace on Saturday, June 14, as a part of our Juneteenth Celebration. Spaces will be given on a first-come, first-served basis. This is a free opportunity for entrepreneurs within the community (with a nominal equipment fee for tent if needed). Deadline is Friday, May 16, 5 p.m. Please email faith.weaver@austintexas. gov for more information. Support Austin’s finest student photographers by signing up your 11-19 year-old for “Smile Photographic Workshops.” “Smile” is one of the longest running, free programs for those hoping to pursue a career in the visual arts. The course is a wonderful launch pad to learning skill and developing a portfolio. Fall class times are Mondays and Thursdays, 4 -6:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m.-12:30 pm; 1-3:30 p.m. Space is limited and enrollment is taken on a first-come, first-served basis. Orientation is Saturday, September 6, 1-3 p.m. Classes (Sept. 7 to Nov. 15) will meet once a week with an exhibit on Saturday, Dec. 6.
The ESB-MACC honors this year’s Award of Excellence recipients on Sunday, May 4, 7 p.m. This year’s individuals and groups have demonstrated leadership and meaningful contributions in Latino cultural arts. They include Ezekiel “Zeke” Robert Castro, Eugenio Del Bosque, Mary Gonzalez, Rodolfo “Rudy” Mendez, Cynthia Perez, Ishmael Soto, Telemundo Austin, Tiarra Girls, and José Treviño. Special guest City Council member Kathie Tovo will present awards with Master of Ceremonies Senator Gonzalo Barrientos. Formal attire is requested to the free event. Join the community on Friday, May 9, 6:30 p.m. for a presentation by author Bárbara Renaud González, and the collaborative team who created the book, “The boy made of lightning: Willie Velasquez, American Hero.” The children’s story is about how one boy changed the world because he listened to his calling. Written as a bilingual piece, with “touch-translations” including narration by Congressman Joaquin Castro, with art by Deborah Kuetzpal Velasquez, the book is targeted to children, 3rd grade – up, but high school students story and likely will ask for more context. In the Black Box Theatre, free and open to the public. Independently published by Alazan Arts, Letters & Stories.
Why No Peace in the Middle East
Meet mythical characters from ancient Asia and design your own characters Saturday, May 3, at the Asian Fantasy Character Design Workshop with children’s author and artist Yangsook Choi. Hear the stories about Filipino vampire Sigbin, Korean goblin Tokebi, a child sumo wrestler Kintaro, and a Nine-Tailed Foxx from the Han dynasty. Session 1: 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.; Session 2: 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. $10, ages 4 to 10. Call 512-974-1700 to register. The AARC is hosting “Rice: A Celebration of Asian American Culinary Pursuits” on Saturday, May 17, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., a festival for Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month with Asian mobile food trucks, children’s activities, interactive booths and more. Walk-in or mail in forms to register for two-week AARC Summer Camps: Passport to Asia and Summer Teen Workshops. Passport to Asia, ages 5-12, $250-$275, June 16–27: “Explore the Middle East”; June 30-July 11: “Adventures in China”; July 14–25: “Discover Korea”; July 28-August 8: “Trek through Southeast Asia.” M-F, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Summer Teen Workshops, 2-week workshops, ages 13-17, M-F, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. June 16–27: Comic Art, Ink and Digital Techniques, June 30–July 11: Painting Asia, $275.
Austin Young Chamber of Commerce Survey
By the Interfaith Community for Palestinian Rights
On his second day in office, President Obama said that his administration would “actively and aggressively seek a lasting peace between Israel and the Palestinians.” Why have his efforts been such a failure? Josh Ruebner, the National Advocacy Director of the U.S. Campaign to End the Israeli Occupation, will be speaking in Austin on the topic at St. John’s United Methodist Church on Thursday, May 22 at 7 p.m. The meeting is open to the public. On Friday, May 23, Ruebner will be at BookPeople for a book-signing at 7 p.m. Ruebner’s new book, “Shattered Hope: Obama’s Failure to Broker Israeli-Palestinian Peace,” has received wide acclaim. Phyllis Bennis, fellow at the Institute for Policy Studies, writes, “Taking advantage of treasure troves of new sources, this book provides a welcome clarity that cuts through years of stale disinformation.” Ruebner charts Obama’s journey from optimism to frustration in the first hard-hitting investigation into why the president has failed to make any progress on this critical issue, and how his unwillingness to challenge the Israel Lobby has shattered hopes for peace. In 1996, Ruebner, who holds Israeli citizenship, witnessed a Palestinian suicide bomber blow up a bus in Jerusalem, killing 27 people. Rather than viewing the perpetrators simply as terrorists, he urged Jews and others to understand why the Palestinians were so full of rage. After earning a graduate degree at John Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, he went to work for the Congressional Research Service as an analyst in Middle East Affairs. In 2004, he publicly burned his Israeli military deferral papers outside the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., refusing to join “an army of occupation and oppression.” For more info go to www.icpr-austin.org.
Austin area young professionals from the Austin Young Chamber of Commerce are reaching out to the community for help. Young professionals (ages 21-40) make up a large part of the city’s workforce and are one of the biggest draws for new businesses and events relocating to Austin. But our voices are rarely heard by politicians and city leaders. Why? One reason is that our demographic votes less than older generations. Another reason is that as a group, we don’t have a unified voice on issues. The Austin Young Chamber of Commerce is trying to fix that problem. The AYC is the one of the biggest area chambers of commerce and is the largest young professional network in Central Texas. At the Young Chamber, we try to help our members develop in their career as we train them to be the next generation of Austin’s leaders. The Austin Young Chamber of Commerce recently developed a young professional survey to gather information from young professionals on what they like and dislike about Austin. The survey contains 22 questions and can be taken from a laptop or by phone at any time. To obtain the most accurate information, the survey is 100 percent anonymous. The survey will help us all learn more about where young professionals live and work, what they care about, and why they live in Austin in the first place. Best of all, it will help all of us identify with our age group so that we can have a united voice on issues that affect us directly. Please visit www.austinyc.org and click on the “AYC Survey” link to get started. Your opinion will give the Austin Young Chamber of Commerce and other organizations an opportunity to look out for your interests. TODO AUSTIN // MAY 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 05
ASIAN AUSTIN
Asian Austin’s A-List
Harish Kotecha By Asian Austin staff
Harish Kotecha was born in Uganda and was ousted during the Idi Amin regime when he chose to settle in the U.S. He joined IBM in Austin as an engineer, where he progressed in management. After taking early retirement, he pursued his interest in giving back to the community by participating in cultural, civic, service and religious organizations. Today, he is highly regarded for his tireless work in cultural and charity circles. As founder of Hindu Charities for America, he encourages and enables the Indian community to take social responsibility in the area of education on behalf of children in the U.S. who are economically disadvantaged. Kotecha also works toward intercultural and interfaith exchange within Austin as producer of numerous events and fundraisers. Asian Austin (AA): Did you know what you wanted to do with your life or did it just happen? Harish Kotecha (HK): I took early retirement from my career to do things not related to earning a living, but rather, to do things that I did not have time or focus to do. One area I had totally omitted during my work stage was giving back to the community. Two years after retirement, I became active in this area and got involved mostly within the Indian community. I also helped with a start-up called Yokit, Inc., that was a lot of fun and I learned to market ideas. I hold high in priority the idea of giving back to the community and making a difference. My wife, Shobhna, has always been active in community work while I was more obsessed with my career. Early retirement
Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt: An Indian Jewish Cultural Exchange By Shivgami Natesan
Genius is everywhere, but we are wasting it. How to unleash the great minds of tomorrow? Give a gift of education. Come break bread and celebrate the joy of friendship while helping kids in our community at “Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt,” an Indian-Jewish cultural exchange and fundraiser on Sunday, June 1, 4 p.m., at Dell Jewish Community Campus, 7300 Hart Lane. The program includes music and dance from both Hindu and Jewish traditions, plus Indian food, 06 TODO AUSTIN // MAY 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM
gave me a fantastic opportunity. This period of my life is giving me an opportunity to do new things, particularly in areas where work is not done. This includes charitable activities such as Hindu Charities for American that helps with education of Austin area schools, supplementary help in resettlement of Bhutanese refugees, Hindu Prison Ministry to help with Hindu inmates in Austin area, networking and helping other Indians in any way that makes a difference. AA: What was your attraction to your vocation? What drew you to do the work you do? HK: I was born in Uganda in a traditional Hindu family. The reason that I sought an electrical engineering degree was because my brother was an electrical contractor and I thought that is what electrical engineering was about. Was it what I really wanted to do? Perhaps not, but coming from a traditional Hindu family, I was taught that you follow what is proposed. After retirement, though, I could follow my real passion! AA: What does the American Dream mean to you? HK: We were asked to leave Uganda with $100 each! And that, and subsequent support from Shobhna who has worked in London, is how we got started. Eventually, I settled into working for a Fortune 500 company and built an excellent career. The American dream is real! AA: Is there anything particular about Austin that inspires you? HK: Austin is a growing city and is really a minority-majority city where one can make a difference. It is great to see visionaries that help bring the diversity of Austin together. Austin has social problems such as homelessness and effective refugee resettlement. These are two areas where I have had the privilege to make a little difference and hope to continue to do so. The new Asian American Resource Center provides a place for diverse Asian communities to meet and exchange ideas and enjoy each other’s companionship and cultures. Jewish desserts, and more. Proceeds will benefit children who are experiencing homelessness or economic hardship in Austin, Del Valle, and Manor ISDs. Last year’s event raised almost $14,000 and was sold out with over 400 people in attendance. “This town that each of us calls home, Austin, has been good to us,” said Harish Kotecha, the event’s producer. “It is our turn to give back – and how better to give back than to the children of this community? “With everyone’s generosity, we seek to raise $15,000 to fund the school supply needs of over 1,100 children in the Austin area. Money will go directly to purchasing school supplies that we will assemble together this summer on August 17 at the Dell Jewish Community Campus. And we certainly hope people will join us when we go out to the school districts to distribute the backpacks.”
AA: Are there generational issues, or cultural issues, or both, between young and old Asian American Austinites? HK: Earlier generation Indians are very traditional and stay within their bounds of culture and religion; many stay within themselves or groups. This includes kids following certain careers (medical, engineering, IT, law, accounting). Reluctantly though, Indian parents are accepting interracial marriages and kids following their passion rather than template careers. In our specific case, our daughter Sonia, with six years of college, chose to be a social worker and I reluctantly came to terms with it. Our son, Savan, wanted to be a songwriter and I supported him and now his work has sold over 100 million copies of songs! Cultural issues are still a concern for me though, since I would not like the great Hindu culture to be trifled for my kids. AA: Asian Americans are becoming a powerful force in Austin economically, culturally, politically and otherwise. How do you see Asian Americans fitting into the larger Austin culture and community? HK: I will speak for the Indian side. Indians are found in local and state government jobs, “Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt” is anchored by spectacular performers from Austin who will donate their time and talent: Mayur Dance Co. (Monsoon Dance), Preya Patel, Yesh Rikud Austin Israeli Folk Dancing, Naga Valli, Anuradha Naimpally, Mazel Tov Kocktail Hour and Rabbi Neil Blumofe. Patrons can look forward to delectable vegetarian food from participating restaurants and food sponsors including Chole, Curry In Hurry, Biriyani Pot, Sarovar Indian Cuisine, Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, Teji’s food, Whip In Convenience Store and Shree Swaminarayan Mandir, Vadtaldham Austin, KP Grocers, specialty tea from Sesa Pure, and homemade and handmade desserts by Jewish families. Tickets are $25 for adults, with children age 6-12 years and seniors over the age of 65 just $10. Sponsor a table of 10 for $500. Businesses interested in sponsorship (minimum $150)
clearly in many areas of private enterprises holding high positions, in retail businesses (groceries, service industries, convenience stores, restaurants, and other retail), high tech businesses including start-ups. Politically, much work has to be done to get Indians more involved, yet other Asians certainly are running for offices. Part of the reason is that many Indians are not U.S. citizens yet. Culturally, we see a lot of activities; Bollywood is not unknown to us. People like Prakash Mohandas with the Agni production of “Om Shanti” helped stage Indian music. Many others like Amie Maciszewski, Oliver Rajamani, and Anuradha Naimpalli have brought classical music to the stage. Monsoon Dance has helped with causes in various areas. We see charity works, an example being Hindu Charities for America, that have helped with school supplies to children experiencing homelessness and others who are economically disadvantaged. Last year, a scholarship project was launched and 35 scholarships will be awarded though Austin Community College, Capital Idea and Manor ISD. There are also events to raise funds and share the Indian culture in performing arts. AA: What do you consider the most important cultural value for you and for those close to you? HK: The Hindu scriptures. Vedas hold a lot of knowledge on how a human can live within himself and with others peacefully. The essence of it is found in the Bhagavad Gita that professes action without any desire for the fruits of those actions. This is contrary to our daily capitalist ideas. We can do good without expectation. This is very difficult to practice, but not impossible. Asian Austin at www.AsianAustin.com is an online news source featuring news about Asian American people, organizations and events in Austin. Visit the Asian Austin website and “Like” us on Facebook for calendar and event details! Contact publisher Yvonne Lim Wilson at yvonne@ asianaustin.com.
are available (deadline is May 15). Tickets are available at Sulekha.com, Austin or https:// shalomaustin.org/namaste or via PayPal at HinduCharitiesForAmerica.org. For more information call (512) 994-4538 or email HinduCharities4America@gmail.com
RICE A CELEBRATION OF
ASIAN AMERICAN CULINARY PURSUITS
ASIAN AMERICAN RESOURCE CENTER, 8401 CAMERON ROAD Saturday, May 17th, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission • $20 tasting ballot Asian Mobile Food Truck Battle Rice Olympics • Asian American Food Entrepreneurs Panel Interactive Learning Booths • Kids activities including moon bounce, crafts, and more!
Visit www.austintexas.gov/aarc for more information
ASIAN AMERICAN RESOURCE CENTER SUMMER YOUTH CAMPS & TEEN WORKSHOPS Your Passport to Exploration, Creativity and Fun! 8401 Cameron Road, Austin, Texas 78754 • 512-974-1700 Passport to Asia, Ages 5 to 12 M-F, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (2 weeks) $250-$275 • June 16-27: Explore the Middle East • June 30-July 11: Adventures in China • July 14-25: Discover Korea • July 28-August 8: Trek through Southeast Asia
Visit www.austintexas.gov/aarc for more information
Summer Teen Workshops, Ages 13 to 17 ASIAN AMERICAN
RESOURCE CENTER The City of Austin is proud to comply with the American Disabilities Act. If you require special assistance for participation in our programs or use of our facilities please call 512.974.1700.
M-F, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (2 weeks) $275-$300 • June 16–27: Comic Art, Ink and Digital Techniques • June 30-July 11: Painting Asia
The City of Austin is proud to comply with the American Disabilities Act. If you require special assistance for participation in our programs or use of our facilities please call 512.974.1700.
Good Times at Güero’s For great tunes and great rita’s! Please join us for live music on our outside jardin stage, every Thursday through Sunday. THANKS TO THE FANS & BANDS WHO SUPPORT US!!! MAY Line-up
TACO BAR
1412 S. Congress Avenue • Austin, Texas 78704 Open Weekdays 11am-11pm; Weekends 8am-11pm
OUTDOOR SHOWS ARE “WEATHER PERMITTING” -----------------------------------------------------------------------THU 5/1 LOS FLAMES (6:30) FRI 5/2 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 5/3 TONY HARRISON (2:30) EL TULE’ (6:30) SUN 5/4 THE RECOUPERATORS (3:00) -----------------------------------------------------------------------WED 5/7 KDRP RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 5/8 BIG BAND TEJANO (6:30) FRI 5/9 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 5/10 AMANDA CEVALLOS (2:30) MIKE MILLIGAN & THE ALTAR BOYZ (6:30) SUN 5/11 BLUE MIST (3:00) -----------------------------------------------------------------------WED 5/14 KDRP RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 5/15 AL DRESSEN FRI 5/16 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 5/17 HANKENSTEIN (2:30) LOS TIPICOS DE CUBA (6:30) SUN 5/18 MITCH WEBB & THE SWINDLES (3:00) -----------------------------------------------------------------------WED 5/21 KDRP RADIO SHOW THU 5/22 THE BANZAI PROJECT (6:30) FRI 5/23 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 5/24 TED RODDY (2:30) MC & THE MYSTIXS (6:30) SUN 5/25 CHICKEN STRUT (3:00) -----------------------------------------------------------------------WED 5/28 KDRP RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 5/29 HOOK HERRERA (6:30) FRI 5/30 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 5/31 THE BREW (2:30) EVE MONSEES & THE EXILES (6:30)
www.GuerosTacoBar.com
The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center honors this year’s Award of Excellence recipients: Ezekiel (Zeke) Robert Castro, Eugenio Del Bosque, Mary Gonzalez, Rodolfo (Rudy) Mendez, Cynthia Perez, Ishmael Soto, Telemundo Austin, Tiarra Girls, and José Treviño. These individuals and groups have demonstrated leadership and meaningful contributions in Latino cultural arts. Special guest City Council Member Kathie Tovo will present awards. Master of Ceremonies: Senator Gonzalo Barrientos Formal attire is requested. Saturday, May 3, 2014 at 7pm 600 River Street • Austin, TX 78701 512.974.3772 • www.maccaustin.org
The City of Austin is proud to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require assistance for participation in our programs or use of our facilities please call 512-974-3772 or 711 Relay Texas. La ciudad de Austin está comprometida al Acta de Americanos Incapacitados. Si requiere asistencia para participar en nuestros programas por favor llame al teléfono número 512-974-3772 o 711 Relay Texas.
Marco has been involved with the community for over 12 years and has seen the city grow into a booming metropolis. He will be invested in improving the quality of life for District 4 in the city of Austin. Marco believes in building coalitions with all stakeholders to move city hall forward. Marco will fight for affordability, lower taxes, crime prevention, improved transportation, and the enhanced quality of life for everyone. Marco is a proven leader and the right choice for change at Austin City Hall.
DIVIDED AUSTIN: By Genoveva Rodriguez
A World-Class City Where Citizens Are
WORLDS APART
The name “Austin,” alone, resonates a certain sense of ingenuity, integrity and weirdness. For decades, our great city has earned the reputation as one of the best places to live in the nation. Austin has received more than its share of statewide and national rankings for economic growth, job opportunity, quality of life, education, business and culture. Certainly, Austin is a city that has encapsulated the meaning of the word unique with its political, ethnic and artistic diversity. However, what many native Austinites and newbies alike do not realize, or give much consideration to, are the minority communities that are exponentially underserved here. In a 2013 Travis County fair housing study, Greater Austin was named the most economically segregated city in the United States. For the past two years, the Austin school district has posted the worst graduation rates for low-income students than was found in any other large urban school district in the state of Texas. Austin’s vaunted music scene and cultural arts community? There’s not one minority-themed “festival” the equal of a SXSW, ACL, Fun Fun Fun Fest, F1 Fan Fest, etc., as the City of Austin largely dedicates resources to Anglo event producers and consumers. For several decades, citizens of color in Austin have fought and faced adversity in the area of political representation, despite exploding minority population growth and economic growth. There have been changes to policies regarding inclusion of various ethnicities and minority groups, such as those relating to housing issues. Urban population growth has proved to be cumbersome, especially for longtime homeowners from lower socioeconomic communities in East Austin, but everyone seems to try the best they can to adapt. “Austin’s increasingly diverse population will continue to be a source of vibrancy for the entire community – diverse in terms of nations-of-origin, race and ethnicity –
and vibrant in so many ways: culturally, economically, and socially,” said Ryan Robinson, City of Austin Demographer. “And, yet with this increase in diversity comes a challenge and opportunity in terms of inclusion and economic integration of this City’s amazingly, richly varied constellation of households.” Austin has seen a growth in population of 9.7 percent from 2010 to 2013. This growth has led to the establishment of new communities and an increase in the development of housing and education infrastructures. As Robinson explains, “Metropolitan Austin is poised to pass the two million total population mark sometime within the next two years and could reach the three million threshold by 2030, a short 16 years from now. Most of this future population growth will very likely be diverse – racially, ethnically, and culturally. Cities in the U.S. that are diversifying are growing; cities unattractive to migrants with diverse backgrounds are dying on the vine across many stretches of the country.” The ever-changing faces in our city are a constant reminder that Austin, like the United States, is a place of opportunity and family growth; but, as across the nation, we see a growing trend of non-acceptance or lack of inclusion of the different ethnic groups that continue to move here. Paul Saldaña, a community leader and longtime Hispanic quality of life issues activist, said, “Concern, and anger, over gentrification has grown in communities across the country and East Austin as housing rental and sales prices have soared. Decreases in affordable housing units have accompanied the higher prices in many places, and as a result, resident displacement from neighborhoods long ignored that now attract higher-income households.” It is disheartening to many ethnic community members and leaders who have invested in the city to come to the realization that they
are no longer valued because of their inability to keep up with the rising cost of living. It seems that a city that is so often synonymous with the idea of activism and tolerance and fighting for social justice has stopped listening to and caring for the people who are most in need of support.
discrimination, subconscious or unconscious bias, and structural racism. These challenges present different obstacles and require different solutions than the race issues of the past, and we cannot begin to address them if we do not take those differences seriously.”
James Nortey, an Associate in the Public Law section of Andrews Kurth, and a rising voice among community activists, shares his thoughts and experiences regarding racism in Austin. “We’ve actually already had several community conversations about race through the 2005 African American Quality of Life Initiative and the 2013 Hispanic Quality of Life Initiative. The conversation has already happened, but civic action and city policy initiatives are long overdue. The community has already requested that the City consider and enact several recommendations regarding business development, youth programming and mentoring, culture and arts, housing and transportation, health concerns, and public safety. It’s time that we finally take action and make these recommendations a priority.”
The fight to keep our city whole and united started long ago when the city was established, and will continue until underserved communities are heard and accepted as a part of Austin’s growing affluence. It’s important to continue sending the message that if a person is capable of helping someone who is incapable, then it is their humane duty to make an effort. How much longer can we stand by as a city and project ourselves as united in our greatness to the country when we often sweep our most vulnerable people under the rug or try to keep them hushed?
Ramey Ko co-founded the Capital Area Asian American Democrats in 2007 and has been an active member of numerous local Democratic and progressive organizations. “Definitely, Austin is tremendously diverse, and that diversity is still growing every day, but all too often we discuss race through outdated paradigms that render many communities invisible,” said Ko, a partner at Jung Ko, PLLC in Austin, whose volunteer efforts are focused on community service. “Additionally, we now understand that race is just one aspect of people’s identities and experiences, so we have an obligation to address race within the context of intersectionality and the interplay with class, gender, sexuality, and other inseparable aspects of the human experience,” Ko continued. “We also need to move beyond fixation on overt, intentional discrimination, in order to tackle the subtler, more complex problems of institutional and invidious
The City’s demographer, Robinson, thinks that in the end, Austin and its ethnic divide is not so dissimilar to ones affecting other major U.S. cities. “To me, the results of my analyses of demographic trends in Austin, especially how these trends surround challenges in terms of race and opportunity, have become strikingly similar to results from around the country that reveal a much larger pattern emerging throughout the nation as a whole: neighborhoods are becoming increasingly sorted out based on race and class and political beliefs. Some academics are even saying that as a country we are as segregated as we were in the mid-sixties. “My own sense is that Austin’s stubborn spatial socioeconomic divide is certainly part of a bigger, national-scale phenomenon and yet it will be Austin’s economic and cultural vitality that ultimately act to close this gap. Austin continues to be a very open city, and this openness will ultimately be the agent that closes the gap, not widen it.” TODO AUSTIN // MAY 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 09
Howlin’Lobo By Lobo Corona
SXSW under the microscope The Austin Center for Events (ACE) invites Austin residents and visitors who attended or were impacted by events held during the 2014 SXSW Film, Interactive and Music Festival to share their experiences at three public meetings in May, each part of a comprehensive evaluation.
Also on the bill are alternative punk rockers La Vida Boheme (Venezuela), in town for the first time since 2012, and Bidi Bidi Banda, an all-star Selena tribute band composed of members of some of the leading Latino groups in Austin. Sounds like a good combination to see live.
Tasty tunes at Pecan St./Psych/Chaos in Tejas Fests The granddaddy of all Austin annual spring flings, Pecan Street Festival, is back to draw the denizens to 6th St. on Saturday-Sunday, May 3-4, for live music from Mobley, Vallejo, Gina Chavez, Mighty The first meeting is Monday, May 5, 4 p.m., with Mountain, The Sour Notes, Residual Kid and more. the Public Safety Commission covering crime, emergency response and related issues. On Austin Psych Fest celebrates its 7th year on May Tuesday, May 6, at noon, join the Austin Music 2-4, spotlighting the vanguard of mind expanding Commission to discuss venue, sound and music with legendary artists from around the related topics. Tuesday, May 13, 6 p.m., the Urban world. Head to Carson Creek Ranch for on-site Transportation Commission takes up vehicle and camping and three stages of music. With the Black pedestrian traffic, road closures and other issues. Angels, The Dandy Warhols, The Horos, The Brian All meetings will be held at Austin City Hall, Boards Jonestown Massacre, Loop, Panda Bear and more. Pick up wristbands at RVRB Records, 2404 E 7th St. & Commissions Room, 301 W. Second St. Plus kick-off shows at Mohawk and Red 7 on May 1. www.austinpsychfest.com for the latest.
LOBO’S BITES
Pachanga pre-party Pachanga Festival is throwing a pre-party the night before the fest with Como las Movies, La Vida Buena, Gobi, Los Pájaros, and Peligrosa at Empire Control Room on Friday, May 9, 9 p.m.
Chaos in Tejas presents “A Weekend in Austin,” May 28-June 1, at various venues. Called “a nice li’l mix of punk, hardcore, metal, hip hop, garage rock, indie rock, and all points in between,” bands include Back to Back, Beth Israel, Deskonocidos, Destruction Unit, Diabolical Messiah, Floor, Glue,
Calle 13
Institute, Marshstepper, Nothing, Parquet Courts, Protomartyr, Radioactivity, and more. ACL Livin’with Calle 13 Calle 13, a Puerto Rican band formed by stepbrothers Residente and Visitante, and their half-sister, PG-13, is noted for its eclectic musical style, mixing urban beats with more traditional Latin American sounds, and satirical lyrics with social commentary about Latin American issues and culture. If you haven’t seen them yet check out the Sunday, May 25, show at ACL Live. The band holds 19 Latin Grammy awards, a record, and two Grammy awards. They also just independently released their fourth studio album, “Multi_Viral.” McCartney & Simon Tribute Two legendary songwriters with too many great songs to even name, covered by your favorite Austin artists with a house band to die for. The artist lineup at Strange Brew Lounge Side on May 30, 6:30 p.m. doors, includes Suzanna Choffel, Charlie Faye, Colin Gilmore, BettySoo, Miles Zuniga, Bonnie Whitmore, William Graham, Georgia Bramhall, Five & Dime, The Belle Sounds, Mark Hallman, Barbara Nesbitt, Courtney Sanchez, Meggan Carney, Anthony DaCosta, and more. The house band features Bruce Hughes, Conrad Choucroun, Oliver Steck, and Jake Owen.
MAKING TRACKS Danny Crooks’ Farewell Steamboat Reunion Honoring one of Austin’s great ones, Mr. Crooks, from a golden age of local music on Sunday, May 18, 2 -10 p.m. at Threadgill’s World Headquarters, are Three33 with a Pushmonkey tribute, Sister 7, Steamroller, Johnny Law, Raging Saint, Vallejo and a killer jam hosted by the Sunday Monsters featuring Will Sexton, Paul LeMond, Stephen Doster, Glenn Fukunaga, Richard Bowden, Tommy Taylor and invited guests. The event benefits the Austin Music Foundation and Helen’s Casa Alde. $20/under 12 free.
To Do Música By Liz Lopez Mexican cúmbia and world music is performed by La Organizacion Cumbiambera “Plan Sonidero” and Huerta Culture on Friday, May 2, 9 p.m.-1 a.m., starting with a mini cumbia class at 9:15 p.m. Esquina Tango, 209 Pedernales St. $10 cover and you can bring your own beverages. www.esquinatangoaustin.com. (512) 524-2772 ----------------“Of Love Art & Politics” spotlights the performance art of Daniel Llanes, featuring vocalists-artists Carmen Llanes Pulido, Luz Zamora and percussionist Luiz Coutinho on Friday, May 2, 8 p.m. at the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center, 600 River St. www.earthculturedancer.com ----------------May 9, 2013, was “Miranda Gil Day” in Austin and the official release date of her “Y.G.F.W” music video is scheduled for the anniversary date this month. Visit www.MirandaGil.com for more details. ----------------The Austin Tejano Music Coalition (ATMC) is holding the “Tejano Idol Competition” auditions monthly in Austin on May 18, June 1, July 13, August 3 and September 7 at El Gallo Restaurant, 2910 S. Congress, from 2-4 p.m. Contact AustinTejanoMusic@yahoo.com or atmc-tejanoidol.com for more info. ----------------Fiesta Amistad will be held on May 24-25 at the Lakeview Pavilion in Round Rock. The band lineup for Saturday, May 24, is Highway 281, Las Fenix, and Eddie Gonzales. Sunday, May 25, sees Round Rock Ballet Folklorico, Joe Vic Reyna y Los Kumbacheros, Los Garcia Brothers and Ram Herrera. For more information on all activities visit www.elamistadclub.org/fiestaamistad-2014.
Pachanga a Source of Latin Pride By Anthony Garcia
The 7th annual Pachanga Latino Music Festival is taking its mission to heart this year with new Latinthemed music, cultural arts and food offerings dedicated to showcasing the vibrant blend of Latino creativity and its impact on American culture. The festival, Saturday, May 10, at Fiesta Gardens, is an inclusive affair that has become a much-anticipated fiesta and a source of pride not only within the local Latino community, but for Austin music supporters in general. Pachanga is unique in that it showcases top-shelf Latin artists within a wide range of musical genres and styles that range from traditional to contemporary and include rock, alternative, cumbia, electronic, hip-hop, and indie. Among the performers on this year’s bill are acclaimed performers from around the globe including five-time Latin Grammy Award-winning Latin rock superstar Julieta Venegas, Mexican rock-fusion band El Gran Silencio, 2014 Grammy Award-winning Latin-alternative quartet, La Santa Cecilia, 2013 Latin Grammy Awards’ “Best New Artist,” Gaby Moreno, Alt-rock Venezuelan group and 2013 Latin Grammy winners for “Best Rock Album,” La Vida Bohème, cumbia dance quartet,
Film Austin By Tara Veneruso
Did you know a 20-ounce bottle of soda has 17 teaspoons of sugar? Did you know that after a kid drinks that soda, a 110-pound kid will need to ride a bike for 75 minutes to burn off that 20-ounce soda’s calories? And just one soda a day increases that kid’s chance of obesity by 60 percent, committing that kid to a life of health challenges. Directed by Award-winning documentarian, Stephanie Soechtig, the feature documentary, “Fed Up,” unearths the dirty secret the food industry doesn’t want you to know. Producer of “Inconvenient Truth,” Laurie David, teamed up with TV host Katie Couric to examine the childhood obesity epidemic and show us that far more of us are sick from what we’re eating than anyone ever realized. “Fed Up” will absolutely change the way you eat forever. “Fed Up” also shows another surprising fact: Nine of its 11 top-level producers are women. Due to a long-standing Hollywood gender prejudice, very few females hold important crew positions. In fact, nationally, women comprised only 6 percent of all directors working on the top 250 U.S. films of 2013, due to gender stereotypes and Hollywood’s rampant phobia of women. Austin is helping change that by pumping out incredible, award-winning content produced and directed by women including Margaret Brown (“The Great
Sonido San Francisco, Mexican female rapper, Niña Dioz, Austin’s own Latin rock band, Del Castillo, four-piece Latin alternative fusion group, Making Movies, Brooklyn psychedelic cumbia masters, Chicha Libre, acclaimed Puerto Rican garage rock act, AJ Davila Y Terror Amor, and a Latin funk tribute by Brownout, performing Brown Sabbath, a Black Sabbath tribute. The Niños Rock Pachanga Festival, a specially curated lineup of music performances and interactive activities for kids, presented by H-E-B, returns to Pachanga. Younger audience members will enjoy a day of dynamic music performances from artists including internet darlings DMK, a Depeche Mode cover band consisting of a dad and his music-loving tykes; music mentors Anthropos Arts; and percussion group Maracatu Austin, who will also lead an interactive drum circle; local group Son Armado; and all sister band Tiarra Girls. Niños Rock Pachanga will also feature a songwriting workshop with singer-songwriter Gina Chavez and an accordion workshop with Susan Torres. “This family-friendly event has become an Austin favorite,” said Jennifer Mueller, senior marketing manager for H-E-B’s Central Texas Region. “We are also honored to align efforts with the Austin Relief Alliance, who are raising funds for those affected by the floods in Southeast Austin.” In addition to music performances Niños Rock Pachanga will offer interactive activities including Invisible”), Michelle Voss (“Velocity”), Kat Candler (“Hellion,” starring Juliette Lewis) and my own “Janis Joplin Slept Here.” U.T. grad student Annie Silverstein’s short, “Skunk,” plays Cannes Film Festival’s student film section this month.
a photo booth, piñata party, and face painting by YELP. Niños will also be able to engage in a number of craft workshops where they can learn to make their own floral halos, masks, papel picado (Mexican folk art tissue paper designs), and ojo de dios (“God’s eye” yarn weavings). This year’s festival will introduce a new food component featuring an array of specially curated taco vendors from the Greater Austin area. VIP attendees will have an opportunity to partake in what is being called the greatest lineup of tacos ever to be assembled in one place. The Very Important Taco ticketing option will provide exclusive access to a hospitality area and special taco tasting showcasing 10 restaurants that will each offer a selection of signature tacos. VIT pass holders will be able to enjoy a complimentary taco from each purveyor and cast a vote for the ultimate official Pachanga Taco. General admission tickets are $33. Patrons can purchase VIP passes for $75, which provides exclusive access to the festival’s hospitality area, specialty taco tasting, and more. Tickets are also available at Discoteca Sanchez, El Taquito, Los Jaliscienses, Furia Western Wear, CBella Hair Salon, Furia Western Wear, and Revolution Tattoo Studio. For more ticket information, visit pachangafest. com/tickets. Big Spoon,” a film written, directed, and produced by local women, Mallory Culbert, Carlyn Hudson, and Melissa Dalley, are committed to bridging the gender gap behind the camera while telling stories that are accessible to audiences across the board. The film shoots this fall and will look for cast and crew this summer. “The Big Spoon’s” Melissa Dalley produced the SXSW 2013 Lone Star Award-Winner, “Loves Her Gun,” made by U.T. film professor, director Geoff Marslett. “The Big Spoon’s” writer/star, Mallory Culbert, can be seen in Steve Mim’s SXSW 2014 World Premiere, “Arlo & Julie.”
Gulabi Gang
While the rest of the industry continues its sluggish work closing the gender gap, Austin is embracing the shift towards equality thanks to recent advancements in online funding and distribution. For example, the team behind the comedy, “The
Julieta Venegas
“The Big Spoon” is taking full advantage of crowdfunding, a relatively new method of raising film financing, by creating a Kickstarter campaign (http://kck.st/1hpeD51) asking friends, family and fans to give what they can. Raising film funds through crowdfunding represents the most sweeping shift since the digital revolution started in 1998. Many preach that crowdfunding creates truly democratized filmmaking and may eventually close the gender gap. By avoiding Hollywood’s middlemen, the community is empowered to launch, support and finance quality projects and entire careers. For example, Annie Silverstein’s “Skunk” was financed by a crowdfunding campaign. The “crowd,” or community, can now create vast opportunities for all Austin filmmakers, regardless of gender. On the other side of the world, female director
Nishtha Jain tackles serious gender issues in “Gulabi Gang.” See a one-time screening and in-person Q&A with Jain at Southwest TheatersLake Creek, May 18, 2:30 p.m. (brownpapertickets. com/event/665144). In 2012, after the fatal gangrape of a New Delhi student caused widespread anger and protests in India, a spontaneous women’s movement surfaced in the badlands of Uttar Pradesh, one of India’s poorest regions. India’s 61st National Film Award’s Documentary Winner, “Gulabi Gang,” follows outspoken leader, Sampat Pal, along with her gang of pink sari clad women, now reaching in the thousands. The women literally fight for women’s rights in India’s highly male dominated society, complicated by a caste system that’s a major cause of exploitation and domestic and sexual violence against women. Sampat explains “Village society in India is loaded against women... and women bear the brunt of poverty and discrimination.” Also this May, check out the “Paramount100” (austintheatre.org), Richard Linklater’s “Jewels in the Wasteland,” at the Marchesa through May 28, and an AFS Doc Night screening of “LaDonna Harris Indian 101,” at the Marchesa May 13, at 7:30 p.m. Tara Veneruso is an award-winning film producer and director making films in Austin in Hollywood for many years. For film casting, 3D, transmedia, animation or gaming news contact filmtodoaustin@gmail.com TODO AUSTIN // MAY 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 11
KLRU celebrates Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month KLRU-TV, Austin PBS broadcast 18.1 cable 9
klru.org
Light of the Valley
Mulberry Child
Monday, May 5, at 10:30 pm and Sunday, May 11, at 1:30 pm
Thursday, April 24, at 8:30 pm
This documentary presents the inspiring story of the 15th renovation of the Swayambu Stupa in Kathmandu, Nepal, recognized as one of the most important monuments in the Buddhist world.
The moving account of a family’s struggle to survive China’s Cultural Revolution. Based on Jian Ping’s poignant memoir of the same name.
For a complete list of Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month programs go to klru.org
Also This Month on KLRU
Coming Back with Wes Moore
The Daytripper
U.S. Army veteran Wes Moore tells the story of his search for answers to some of the most difficult questions facing vets returning from war.
Austin’s own award-winning travel program is an adventure for the entire family. New episodes explore the towns of Arlington, Abilene, Lufkin, Port Lavaca and Orange.
Tuesdays, May 13, 20, 27, at 7 pm
Thursdays in May at 8:30 pm
Arts In Context: A Moving Canvas Take a look at an art that has gone from taboo to mainstream in this documentary about tattoo artists. Thursday, May 22, at 7:30 pm
KLRU-TV, Austin PBS is community supported. More than 85% of our funding comes from the public. Please consider investing in KLRU.
CARIDAD
LGBTQ youth and the challenges of the foster care system By Callie Langford
May is National Foster Care Month, a time for all of us to reflect on the lives and experiences of children in foster care in our community. The outcomes for children who grow up in foster care, and particularly for those who age out of the system before finding a permanent home, are often negative. Low high school graduation and even lower college attendance rates, teen pregnancy, unemployment, homelessness and incarceration can be some of the unfortunate consequences of spending time in the overburdened child welfare system. Spending time in foster care can be an even more challenging experience for youth who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning their sexuality (LGBTQ). Coming out to one’s family can be the reason youth enter the foster care system if their family isn’t receptive to finding out about their sexual orientation or sexual identity. The Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund reports that more than 30 percent of youth who identify as LGBTQ
CASA
(Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Travis County
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT Ana Smith-Daley was born in Honduras and moved to Indiana to attend college. Ana subsequently moved to New York and then New Jersey where she graduated from college. She worked for an insurance company on the east coast for 29 years and moved to Texas where she worked with the Department of Insurance for almost 15 years before retiring. Ana’s husband, Roy, was her childhood sweetheart in Honduras and they both came to the U.S. separately with other spouses until years later, finding each other single, they got married. They have five grandchildren and love traveling, walking, bike riding, dancing and reading. Ana began volunteering with CASA in the fall of 2012 after seeing an article calling for volunteers and finding out that her first boss was a CASA volunteer. Roy assists Ana on CASA cases as
were subject to physical abuse after coming out to their family, and that more than 26 percent had to leave their homes and families because of conflicts with their parents after coming out. Once LGBTQ youth enter the foster care system, things can often get worse for them. The potential for their being bullied is already high yet these youth don’t have a supportive family situation to help overcome these struggles. If the bullying or harassment is occurring in their foster home, often the foster care agencies will move them instead of actually addressing the issue itself, and they may end up in a home or facility that’s even worse for them. The Urban Justice Center reports that hostility regarding sexual orientation or gender identity has caused nearly 80 percent of LBGTQ youth to be removed or run away from a foster home. It is uncommon for LGBTQ youth to be reunited with birth families or have strong permanent connections to their family or community after entering foster care. The Child Welfare Education Gateway shares that, “Compared to other LGBTQ youth, those who are highly rejected by their families because of their sexual orientation or gender identity are: More than three times as likely to use illegal drugs or be at high risk for contracting HIV and other STDs; Nearly six times as likely to experience high levels of depression; (and) More than eight times as likely to attempt suicide.”
her Helping Heart, a great way for couples to both be involved with the organization. Ana has appreciated the opportunity to work with “young parents who for some reason got misguided and on the wrong track. I saw issues brought to their attention and watched them evaluate where they were headed. I got to see a whole family turn around and become a whole unit that they weren’t before. Seeing that transformation really made me happy.”
So May means it’s time for us all to take action to help kids in foster care, and particularly to make sure we’re improving the system for LBGTQ youth who may be facing some of the biggest challenges. One of the most impactful ways our community can take action is to become a CASA volunteer and advocate directly for the best interest of youth in foster care. CASA volunteers can be a consistent, positive, and non-judgmental presence for a teen who is not only dealing with the struggles of foster care but also the challenges of discovering their identity as young adults. A CASA volunteer is a court appointed, trained and committed adult who ensures that each child’s individual needs remain a priority in an over-burdened child welfare system. They get to know the child while also gathering information from the child’s family, teachers, doctors, caregivers and anyone else involved in the child’s life in order to make independent and informed recommendations to help the judge decide what’s best for the child. CASA volunteers come from every walk of life and share a commitment to improving children’s lives, a willingness to learn, and an open mind towards life experiences different from their own. Learn more about advocating for youth in foster care and volunteering with CASA of Travis County at www.casatravis.org, or call 512-459-2272.
Austin Heart Ball Heartfelt Thanks
To our sponsors, donors and volunteers for their generous support of the American Heart Association in Central Texas
Bill & Pat Munday ®
AUSTIN, BOSTON, DALLAS/FT. WORTH, HOUSTON, NEW YORK, PHOENIX, RALEIGH, SAN ANTONIO
www.heart.org/austin
For 2015 sponsorship information: Catie Oberg at 512.338.2403 or at catie.oberg@heart.org
TODO AUSTIN // MAY 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 13
AUSTIN FASHION WEEK 2014
Class Action Beauty: Priscilla Gallardo By Monica Peña
Priscilla Gallardo lived in Monterrey most of her life and from childhood was fascinated by cosmetic bags, hair products, and her mother’s closet. “Thinking it was just a hobby, I went to law school,” she said as she readies for Austin Fashion Week. “I graduated and worked as an attorney for a while. However, it wasn’t long until I discovered that I was becoming more passionate about my ‘hobby’ than my ‘career’ as a lawyer.” She decided to make the career change to use her passion to help women find and express their inner beauty. “I quickly realized that I was able to genuinely help many more people in my new field than I ever could as a lawyer!”
looks that the average woman loves along with haute couture looks seen on runways that her international, social elite clientele demands. Gallardo’s style segment is featured on “Despierta Austin” on Univision 62, and her radio talk show, “VIVE Austin,” on 95.1 FM, where she gives her audience beauty and fashion advice. Her credits also include features in major magazines like Italian Vogue, Essere, runway collections and fashion catalogues. For more on Austin Fashion Week, go to www.fashionweekaustin.com
Gallardo trained with acclaimed European school of stylists, Joss Claude & Bellver, hair giant L’OREAL Paris, and MAC Cosmetics. Gallardo has developed her exceptional talent with hair, makeup and stylist work for celebrities, film projects, editorial shoots, red carpets and weddings, both in the United States and Mexico. Gallardo and her team archive the natural
To Be or Not to Be a Genuine Joe Coffee Drinker By Rose Di Grazia
Yesterday, I was sitting in an Asian restaurant I frequent weekly, about to have dinner. Across the room at another table sat a young Asian young man and his dinner companion. I couldn’t help but overhear him as he spoke in a rather loud voice. I couldn’t believe it, but I was in the company of a real live, genuine Sochi Olympic gold medal winner. He took the prize out of a cloth bag and held it up to show his friend. Later on, I asked him what he won it for; he answered in the hockey competition. I congratulated him and began to enjoy my dinner. That was an unexpected surprise for me. But Olympic champions aside, it is a Northside coffeehouse that is a winner in my book called Genuine Joe. To be a genuine coffeehouse in my book, you must first have a sparkling espresso machine and preferably with little white cups on top. If you have mugs, that is okay, too. When you leave the joint, your clothes should smell of good strong java. You must offer a wide variety of pastries. A customer should never walk in and the counter kid explains that’s the last one. If that’s the case, I am not coming back. The place should be clean and guests should not see crumbs everywhere and cream spilled on the coffee counter. The 14 TODO AUSTIN // MAY 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM
North Austin Influencers
Find out how to leverage free cloud storage across familiar devices and how to use it for business and personal life at North Austin Influencers professional development on May 28 at Pierpont Communications with Heather Summers.
By Monica Peña
Join members of the North Austin Influencers for their May networking opportunities as they celebrate female role models. Laura Beale Boehm, a mother and insurance professional who specializes in the constantly evolving area of healthcare reform, will be the guest speaker at the mixer on Thursday, May 15, at Abel’s North Grill and Tap House. Last year, she joined the team at Ceco Insurance, where she helps small businesses understand their options and requirements for assembling employee benefit packages and addressing cost saving strategies for the present and the future. By working closely with owners and management, she gains a unique perspective on the inner workings of a variety of small businesses, from various industries, and the challenges they face. She offers the same level of presence and attention to each of her clients that she has cultivated in her home life and relationship with her family. Have you ever wondered what the Cloud is?
Summers is a Google consultant helping business professionals learn to be more efficient with their devices and technology, will discuss the cloud and also include a look at the various cloud storage options out there. As a cloud expert and technology translator, Summers will provide everything you ever wanted to know about the Cloud. Summers has helped companies with Google business apps adoption and shown companies how, through the use of Chrome Extensions, to make migration from Microsoft fun and educational. Summer has been a Google consultant for Coolhead Tech, Dale Carnegie in Austin, and Austin’s CRU, one of the larger non-profit organizations to go Google. The event is $10 prepaid/$15 at the door. For more information on the event, the group, and/or to RSVP visit: http://www.meetup. com/NORTH-AUSTIN-INFLUENCERS/
place should never smell of anything other than good food and coffee. The help should always be friendly. Genuine Joe’s offers everything you might look for in a coffeehouse and more. Genuine Joe is a little red java joint on Anderson Lane that has been in operation for nine years now. The owners are Dave Swainston and Vic Levi, both partners who have friends that were distributors in the coffee business before they decided to open up shop. They also found themselves in java joints most of the time, so it just made sense for them to start their own. The two men found the perfect spot in an area that was lacking a place to get a hot cup of java. Dave explained the hardest thing about getting it opened was learning about all that was required by the City. He did all the remodeling himself on the building. Today, the partners just love spending time with and seeing their regulars on a daily basis. They also do community events with local churches and with Aids research. Genuine Joe’s represents the old idea of a coffeehouse and community center where people can mingle, work, and eat great pastries with coffee from around the globe. The place also offers meeting rooms for all kinds of clubs and organizations for a small fee. There are two rooms: a small one like a mini living room up in the front and a larger room down the steps. The whole place is cozy and inviting with its familiar creature comforts like leather sofas and lots of tables and chairs. Many customers use the place as their office away from the office. Customers can also sit outside on the front deck or sit and rock on a porch swing. Dogs are always welcome on the deck. The service is great and the pastry selection is wonderful. Choose from donuts, muffins, cookies, cakes, danish, and breakfast tacos. But if you want a taco you better come early or you”ll wish you had! For more information about Genuine Joe, call 512-220-1576 or visit www.genuinejoecoffee.com
CELEBRATING DIVERSIT Y
CINCO DE MAYO BY LIZ LOPEZ
BRIDGE2BRIDGE From Montopolis Bridge to 360 Bridge, Everything Austin
Author Maria Garcia Esperon reads from “Copo de Algodón,” describing the conquest of Mexico from Aztec emperor Montezuma’s daughter’s perspective on Monday, May 5, 1 p.m. at the Emma S. Barrientos MACC, with music and other activities. The Flor De Nopal Literary Festival on Saturday, May 17, 7 p.m., spotlights Ana Castillo reading from her new novel, “Give it To Me.” maccaustin.org A heart-warming tale of loyalty and friendship, “War Horse,” winner of five Tony Awards, runs May 6-11 at Bass Concert Hall. The powerfully moving and imaginative drama, filled with stirring music and songs, is a show of phenomenal inventiveness. At its heart are astonishing life-sized puppets that bring to life breathing, galloping, charging horses strong enough for men to ride. texasperformingarts.org
In the United States, we commemorate a date in Mexico’s history marking its victory over France on May 5, 1862, known stateside as Cinco de Mayo. There’s no shortage of events around Austin observing the date, with two in particular seeing crowds increase annually at Fiesta Gardens and on 2nd Street. Fiestas Patrias of Austin presents its 9th annual Cinco de Mayo celebration on May 3 (noon-11:30 p.m.) and May 4 (noon-10 p.m.) at Fiesta Gardens, 1901 Jesse Segovia Ave. Historically Austin’s largest such fiesta, the event features a variety of Tejano and Conjunto bands. May 3 is highlighted by Grupo Solido, Grupo Ondo, Street People, Palacios Bros., Knights, Mariachi Los Toros, Ballet Folklorico de Mari Cruz and the Tiarra Girls. On May 4, the 24th Annual Johnny Degollado Conjunto Fest features Los Fantasmas del Valle, Joel Guzman and Sarah Fox and Conjunto Aztlan, Conjunto Baraja de Oro, Boni Mauricio y Los Maximos, Johnny Degollado y su Conjunto, Los Texas Wranglers and the Lake Travis High Fiddlers. Food and drink vendors will be on site, plus a car show, children’s games and other family-friendly entertainment. For ticket and other information, visit http://www.cincodemayoaustin.com. The 6th annual La Condesa Cinco de Mayo Downtown Block Party celebrates the heritage and culture of Mexico on Sunday, May 4, from 1-9 p.m. on 2nd Street between Guadalupe and San Antonio Streets. The free event will showcase music by DJ Chicken George, DJ Chorizo Funk, Como Las Movies, Bombasta, Este Vato, El Tule, VITERA, Celsius and Mariachi Relampago. Food, drink, children’s activities and more will be available and look for updates at lacondesa.com.
Help rebuild the Philippines with an evening of Filipino culture on Mother’s Day with Leyte Dance Theater on Sunday, May 11. LDT is known for its distinct western techniques and indigenous infusion, described as richly visual, emotionally stirring and truly riveting. Performers are typhoon survivors and proceeds will go towards restoring their damaged hometowns. $15-$25. austintexas.gov/aarc Color and Commotion presents Art Rendezvous, a gathering of local artists and their works on display at The Silo on 7th, Sunday, May 11, 5-9 p.m. The evening includes a silent auction in support of Austin Children Shelter with donations from participating visual artists Kritka (left), Rama Tiru, Sonali Kukreja, Kirk Stewart, Peter Tsai, and Katy Hirschfeld. No cover. colorandcommotion.wix.com/kritka Maestro Peter Bay and the Austin Symphony Orchestra invite concertgoers for “Your Night Out” with performances of works by Robert Paterson, Mozart and Richard Strauss. Renowned Venezuelan pianist Gabriela Montero makes her ASO debut performing Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 20 in D Minor on FridaySaturday, May 16-17, 8 p.m. in Dell Hall at the Long Center. austinsymphony.org Cosmic Intuition Productions presents Austin International Music Extravaganza Saturday, May 17, 7-10 p.m., at the Family Life Center of The First United Methodist Church. With music and dance by Spirit of the Drum with Eartha Colson, Sirinlak Jordan, Roots Dimension Reggae Band, Jimmy Turner and Cosmic Intuition, Bilal Sunni-Ali and C J Edwards. $12; free for kids under 12 and elders over 60. Bonnets & Bowlers Bash! is an all-inclusive modern day garden/dance party mash-up, Friday, May 30, 7 p.m. on the City Terrace of the Long Center. Designed to appeal to local foodies, movers and shakers, socialites and business professionals, with DJ Johnny Bravvo spinning on an evening of entertainment curated by the Alamo Drafthouse’s Action Pack. 21-plus only. thelongcenter.org
The Sleeping Beauty LONG CENTER By Caitlin Moore
Ballet Austin typically presents a classical performance each spring to close out the season, and this Mother’s Day weekend (May 9, 10 and 11) they will stick with tradition and stage “The Sleeping Beauty.” Choreographed by Marius Petipa with music by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky, “The Sleeping Beauty” was first performed in 1890 and endures as one of ballet’s most famous fairy tale standbys. The production tells the well-known story: a sleeping girl named Aurora awaits the kiss of her handsome prince, which after 100 years will break the spell placed on her by an evil fairy. Incorporated into the action are appearances from an array of storybook characters, including Puss in Boots and Little Red Riding Hood. This performance will close out a varied and successful season that most recently included the fifth biennial “New American Talent/Dance” choreographic competition, which showcased the work of three up and coming artists in the dance world. Last March, jurors and audience members viewed and voted on their favorites of the three pieces presented, which were performed by Ballet Austin dancers. Nearly $20,000 in award money was split amongst the choreographers according to the voting results. Ballet Austin’s next season kicks off in September with stagings of “The Firebird” and “Agon.” In addition to the traditional winter holiday performance of “The Nutcracker,” the 2014/15 program also includes “La belle et la bête” (with music by Philip Glass), “Swan Lake” and “Director’s Choice: One/The Body’s Grace and Luminaria.” Tickets for “The Sleeping Beauty” begin at $15 and are available at www.balletaustin.org. Performances will be held at 8 p.m. on Friday, May 9, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday, May 10, and 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 11. TODO AUSTIN // MAY 2014 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 15
The Texas Performing arTs 2014–2015 season
see iT live here.
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