seems there’s a me in team.
Volume III, 4 | August 2011
contact@todoaustinonline.com
512.538.4115
new website coming soon
www.facebook.com/todo.austin
www.twitter.com/todo_austin
CONTRIBUTORS DR. HANI SALEH (p. 8-9) holds a Ph.D. degree in Computer Engineering from UT. He’s worked for several leading semiconductor companies including Motorola, Fujitsu, Synopsys, Qualcomm, AMD, Intel and Apple. SACHIN SHAH (p. 7) graduated from the LBJ School of Public Affairs and is currently a Humanities Associate at the RGK Center for Philanthropy and Community Service. PRATIMA AGRAWAL is a Post-BA Teacher Certification student in K-12 Theatre Arts at UT. Read about her Punchkin Repretory Theatre on p. 12.
The Family Fun Nights Finale at Highland Mall on Thursday, August 11, takes place in the lower level promotions court from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Each week this summer, Family Fun Nights has featured a different activity, from Indian dance lessons and movies, video game competitions and interactive stories and story crafts, to a petting zoo and planetarium (Thursday, August 4). It all winds down with the big finale the second week of August, with several surprises in store. Free. www.highlandmall.com ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Remember when ice cream trucks roamed the streets and running through sprinklers was an art form? The 5th Annual Austin Ice Cream Festival on Saturday, August 13, is an event centered around family, fun, and ice cream. Bring everyone including your dog for this yummy event which will include lots of games, activities, contests and live entertainment as well as what we all scream for – free ICE CREAM! 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Waterloo Park at 14th and Trinity Street. Admission $10.00; Kids 8 and under free with an adult. www.roadwayevents.com ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The 8th La Piazza Italiana festival will be held at the Austin Museum of Art’s beautiful Laguna Gloria (W. 35th St.) on Sunday, August 21 from 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. The AMOA fundraiser, organized by A Taste of Italy in Austin, features arts and crafts, games, an Italian car and motorcycle show, Vespa scooters, and Italian food, gelato, espresso, wine, pizza, olive oil tasting, with live music, including opera, accordionists, violinists, Mediterranean belly dance, and more. www.atasteofitalyinaustin.com ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------On Saturday, August 27, the 7th annual Batfest and Night of the Bat return to Congress Avenue Ann Richards Bridge. The event feature arts, crafts, music, food, bat watching, children’s activities, and educational displays. Enjoy the scenic backdrop of Lady Bird Lake and downtown Austin as up to 2 million Mexican Free Tail Bats emerge for their nightly flight. Shop for creative items made in Austin, Texas, and the world. See over 20 bands on two stages including Filter, Bob Schneider and Alpha Rev. All ages. Free from 1 p.m. to midnight. www.roadwayevents.com ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Austin Chronicle Hot Sauce Festival on Sunday, August 28 at Waterloo Park, presented in conjunction with the Capital Area Food Bank, is in its twenty-first year and is now one of the largest annual contests of its kind in the world. Free to the public (with a donation of three healthy, non-perishable food items or a cash donation to the Capital Area Food Bank of Texas), the event draws upwards of 15,000 spectators and 350-plus entries. 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. www.austinchronicle.com ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------In La Mujer de Todos, a beautiful woman of affairs falls in love with a handsome young captain in pre-revolutionary Mexico City at the beginning of the 20th century. The 1946 film about a love triangle, starring María Félix, Mexican cinema’s greatest diva, screens at Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center (600 River St.) on Tuesday, August 30 as part of the Cine de Oro series. Screening for seniors at 9:30 a.m.; 7 p.m. general public. Free. Spanish without English subtitles. maacaustin.org ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Austin music original Johnny Gonzales performs a variety of music from rock and roll, blues, and R&B, to Tejano, International Mexican ballads and mariachi, as well as writing/composing original music. The Eastside native and front-man of Johnny and the New Sensations can be found regularly this summer at venues including Amaya’s Taco Village (5405 N. I-35), La Palapa (6640 E. Hwy 290) and Mexita’s (1107 N. I-35). www.johnny-gonzales.com
Find TODO Austin at these locations supporting diversity in our community
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Longhorn Laundry 409 W. 43rd
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Ruby’s BBQ 512 W. 29th
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Brave New Books 1904 Guadalupe
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Vulcan Video 609 W. 29th
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Bennu Coffee 2001 MLK
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Hot Mama’s 2401 E. 6th
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Rio Rita
1308 E. 6th
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
ACC Eastview 3401 Webberville
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Mexic-Arte Museum 419 Congress
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Lucy in Disguise 1506 S. Congress
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Waterloo Records 600 N. Lamar
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Café Medici 1101 W. Lynn
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Planet K
1516 S. Lamar
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Austin Java
1608 Barton Springs
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Westbank Community Library 1309 Westbank
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Dragon’s Lair 6111 Burnet
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Pacha Coffee 4618 Burnet
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Texenza Coffee 3110 Windsor
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!!! ALL OUTDOOR SHOWS ARE “WEATHER PERMITTING”
AUGUST Line-up
TACO BAR
1412 S. Congress Avenue • Austin, Texas 78704 Open Weekdays 11am-11pm; Weekends 8am-11pm
---------------------------------------------------THU 8/4 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) FRI 8/5 LOS FLAMES (6:30) SAT 8/6 THE SUZANNE SHERWIN BAND (6:30) SUN 8/7 THE TEXAS TYCOONS (3:00) ---------------------------------------------------THU 8/11 THE FABS (6:30) FRI 8/12 LOS FLAMES (6:30) SAT 8/13 THE SIDE SHOW FIVE (6:30) SUN 8/14 THE RECOOPERATORS (3:00) ---------------------------------------------------THU 8/18 JOHNNY GIMBLE (6:30) FRI 8/19 LOS FLAMES (6:30) SAT 8/20 BRADLEY WILLIAMS (6:30) SUN 8/21 MITCH WEBB & THE SWINDLES (3:00) ---------------------------------------------------THU 8/25 MATT SMITH’S WORLD (6:30) FRI 8/26 LOS FLAMES (6:30) SAT 8/27 WINK KEZIAH (6:30) SUN 8/28 CHICKEN STRUT (3:00)
www.GuerosTacoBar.com
Meeting customers communication and information technology needs and challenges of tomorrow — today.
T E L E C O M M U N I C AT I O N S BROADBAND & WEB HOSTING I N F O R M AT I O N T E C H N O L O G Y SERVICE INDUSTRY SURVEILLANCE AND SECURITY
BRANDI COWLEY 1611 W. 5th Street 512.473.0700 | brandicowley.com PHOTO BY ZOE ALEXANDER
S TA F F A U G M E N TAT I O N
www.rzaustin.com | (512) 386.7336 RZ AUSTIN
RZ LAREDO
RZ PORT ARTHUR
TODO Austin VOLUME III, NUMBER 004
HABLA Austin
NEWS AND NOTES ON CURRENT AFFAIRS AND ISSUES IMPACTING OUR HISPANIC COMMUNITY FROM HISPANIC ADVOCATES AND BUSINESS LEADERS OF AUSTIN Fiesta de Independencia Foundation The Fiesta de Independencia Foundation is working on its sponsor list. Thank you to the following who have already committed for the 2011 Grito de Independencia at the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center on September 15th: Austin Community College, Congressman Lloyd Doggett, Downtown Austin Alliance, Rodriguez Engineering and Wells Fargo. Sponsorship levels begin at $500. Please visit the website at www.fiestadeindependenciafoundation.org. – HABLA post by Rosie Gutierrez Mendoza NCLR Poll: Immigration Tops Jobs & Economy as Most Important Issue for Latinos A poll conducted at the National Council of La Raza’s (NCLR) Annual Conference held in Washington, D.C. showed that immigration overwhelmingly trumps both the economy and education as the most important issue for Latinos. This is according to the recent poll of 547 supporters and attendees at the 2011 NCLR Annual Conference. Almost half (45 percent) of all respondents chose immigration as the top issue, as opposed to jobs and the economy (25 percent), education (21 percent), and health care (6 percent). – hispanicallyspeakingnews.com (HABLA post by Paul Saldaña) Study Reveals That for Many U.S. Latinos, Biculturalism is Key to Self-Identity Many U.S. Hispanics feel culturally connected to both their U.S. and Latino identities, according to Horowitz Associates’ annual FOCUS: Latino report. For the past 11 years, the study has tracked U.S. Hispanics’ attitudes towards and viewing of TV, broadband, and alternative platform content and services. It finds that, when asked to rate on a scale of 1-5 whether they identified themselves as “completely Latino” or “completely American,” 18% of Hispanics identify themselves as “completely American,” 43% as completely Latino, and four in ten (39%) feel they are a mix of both. - PRNewswire.com NAACP Urges Minorities to get to Polls in 2012 The NAACP plans a big push to increase minority turnout in the 2012 elections, hoping to gain political influence and turn back what the civil rights group says are efforts in various states to deny minorities the right to vote. To do it, the group is going to reach out to black churches, fraternities and sororities as well as use sophisticated databases, social media and boost training of volunteers to include things like getting a contact for each voter they register. “The days of the 45-minute workshop are over,” said Roger Vann, chief operating officer of NAACP. – Christina Hoag, Associated Press (HABLA post by Perla Cavazos) Former Member of Austin Police Monitor Panel Cautions Awareness A link to the Austin Office of the Police Monitor’s 2010 Annual Report is full of data and I did a quick scan. What jumps out at me is the fact that the number of complaints (external) is going down and that is a good trend. However, as a former member of this panel, the question always is are we doing enough to reach out to our area residents to let them know that if they want to file a complaint, they can do so? Even when an officer is unprofessional and not physically abusive, that is the sign of a troubled officer and those interactions need to be reported as well. – HABLA post by Celia Israel Latino Soldier Receives Medal of Honor When President Obama walked into the East Room at the White House shortly after 2 p.m., beside him was the Latino who became only the second living recipient since the Vietnam War of the Congressional Medal of Honor (MOH). Sgt. First Class Leroy Petry, 31, was honored for saving the lives of two fellow Rangers despite being shot in both legs and losing a hand during a daring daytime mission in Afghanistan in 2006. - Damarys Ocana, Latina.com (HABLA post by Andrew Ramirez) To Mobilize 12 Million Latinos, Register 15 Million Before we begin mobilizing Latino voters for the 2012 presidential election, we must understand the population of available voters in our community as well as the total number of Latino elected officials. Keep in mind that of today’s 50.5 million U.S. Latinos, less than half are eligible to vote or run for public office due to age and citizenship status. The largest Latino voter turnout in history was produced in 2008 presidential election: 19.5 million adult Latinos were eligible to vote, 11.6 million registered to vote, and over 9.7 million cast votes. . . In order to achieve the goal that NALEO has set for mobilizing over 12.2 million Latinos, it will require at least 15 million Latino voters to be registered and well informed in the coming months. – Joseph P. A. Villescas, Ph.D, newstaco.com 04 TODO Austin // AUGUST 2011 // TODOaustinonline.com
Publisher/Editor Gavin Lance Garcia CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Travis County
V O L U N T E E R
S P O T L I G H T
Larry Comer grew up in Tennessee, but fell in love with Austin after spending five years at Ft. Hood near Killeen in the 1980s. The live music scene might have a lot to do with it. Larry plays keyboard and guitar, writes and sings. He loves blues music, and swears that as long as he has his mind and his fingers, he’ll be playing music. Larry has made a 20-year living as the PR Director for the Association of Texas Professional Educators and truly enjoys advocating on behalf of teachers across the state. Coming from a big family, children have always been a huge part of Larry’s life, so he makes it a point to volunteer with children here when his own nieces and nephews are far away in Tennessee. He spent 10 years as an AISD mentor and now volunteers with CASA. What really impressed him about CASA was the cross section of people – UT students to retired police officers – in his training classes. Through his work with CASA, he has learned to better appreciate the stability he had growing up as he sees children moved home to home. Larry says that for the youth he just tries “to be there and to listen. I take everything seriously. I fight for their needs, make calls and hold people accountable. I believe you have to give it everything you’ve got for these kids.”
Spotlight: Refugee Health Screening Clinic Refugees resettled in Austin are referred first to the City of Austin Refugee Health Screening Clinic for screening. While its referral numbers are slightly lower than normal, its staff continues to grow as it prepares for more arrivals this fall. With a new physician, Dr. Ming Tang, and new phlebotomist, Tracy Carter, the clinic is expanding its staff to better provide quality care to patients. Referrals are received from the voluntary agencies Refugee Services of Texas and Caritas of Austin to the clinic. The total number of new patient screenings to date has been 877 since the beginning of the clinic’s fiscal year October 2010. It sees clients typically within two weeks of their arrival to the U.S., and also screens secondary migrants new to Austin if they are referred within 90 days of arrival. If it is after 90 days they will continue to see patients for vaccines only until they complete their vaccine series. RHSC provides clients with needed vaccines and health screenings and referrals to appropriate providers. With two nurses who gather health history, give vaccines and complete labs, nurse practitioners will see clients on follow up visits to review labs and make recommendations for referrals. The nurse practitioner will only see clients once for screening and then will make a request for patients to be seen with a family doctor. The clinic continues to see patients for vaccines, treatment of intestinal parasites, and lab follow ups only, as required for their immigration paperwork. After one year and one day, they are able (if all medical requirements are met) to have their I-693 medical portion of application completed to apply for their permanent residency. Clinic clients are given Medicaid for eight months upon arrival unless they are children, elderly/disabled, or pregnant-who get Medicaid longer. This year the clinic is focused on ongoing projects to improve health literacy for its patients. It wants to create culturally appropriate interventions and informational tools that will continue to provide best practice for its patients and promote learning and growth in its clients’ maintenance of their care. For more information: Tara Ayala, LCSW tara.ayala@ci.austin. tx.us (512)972-5528
contact@todoaustinonline.com Art Director – Dave McClinton www.dmdesigninc.com Executive Editor – Erica Stall Wiggins Web Master – Matt Rife mman-creative.com Senior Editors Harmony Eichsteadt, Katie Walsh Associate Editors – Michu Benaim, Lope Gutiérrez-Ruiz, Sonia Kotecha, Alexandra M. Landeros, Julia Lee, Melanie Morgan, Esther Reyes, Blake Shanley, Yvonne Lim Wilson Contributing Writers/Artists – Pratima Agrawal, Güner Arslan, Mohammad Al-Bedaiwi, Joseph Banks, Stefanie Behe, Adriana Cadena, Deborah Alys Carter, Sirsha Chatterjee, Jennie Chen, Mita Haldar, Jillian Hall, Maria P. Hernandez, Paul Hernandez, Gabino Iglesias, Yadira Izquierdo, Nandini Jairam, Chaille Jolink, Jamie Jones, Ryan Jordan, Vandana Kumar, Callie Langford, Heather Lee, Liz Lopez, Otis Lopez, David Marks, Jessica Meyer, Lata Narumanchi, Cristina Parker, Kathy Pham, Rebecca Robinson, Paul Saldaña, Marion Sanchez, Hani Saleh, Jaya Shukla, Rupal Shah, Sachin Shah, Kristina Vallejo, Kuetzpalin Vasquez, Bowen Wilder Photographers – Raul Angon, Heather Banks, Jenny Fu, Mark Guerra, Mari Hernandez, John M. P. Knox, JoJo Marion, Aimee Wenske, Matt Ziehr Advertising — Contact 512.538.4115 sales@todoaustinonline.com TODO Austin is published by Spark Awakened Publishing. © 2011 Spark Awakened Publishing. All rights reserved. Unsolicited submissions (including, but not limited to articles, artwork, photographs) are not returned.
Visit us at:
TODOAustinOnline.com www.facebook.com/todo.austin —————————————————————————— Multicultural Media for All of Austin —————————————————————————— TODO Austin is a free, colorful print and online journal for all of Austin highlighting our multicultural heritage. Our mission is to promote the concept of community in an ethnically diverse city.
WRITE TO US
with stories, submissions, etc.: Contact@TODOaustinonline.com Editorial – 512.538.4115 TODO Austin P.O. Box 4142 Austin, TX 78765-4142
Exile or Deportation GAY BINATIONAL COUPLES CAUGHT IN LEGAL LIMBO // There are an estimated 24,000 same-sex couples in the U.S. in which one partner is not a citizen, according to a recent Los Angeles Times report. Those who have married in states with marriage equality laws find that their marriages have no standing in the eyes of federal immigration agents. In June, John Morton, director of Immigration and Custom Enforcement, sent a memo instructing ICE officials to focus deportation efforts on criminals. The Morton memo also stated that ICE officials could “exercise discretion” in cases of undocumented immigrants who have a “spouse, child or parent” who is a U.S. citizen. There was no mention of legally married same-sex couples, leaving them at the mercy of immigration judges and at risk of deportation. But sometimes there are victories. Amos Lin is the community outreach director for Out 4 Immigration, a volunteer-run network for samesex binational couples. In July, O4I worked on a high-profile case in California where Venezuelan native Alex Benshimol was at risk of deportation and separation from his partner Doug Gentry. O4I organized efforts to stop the deportation and Benshimol’s hearing was postponed. In June, the U.S. canceled deportation plans for a Venezuelan man in New Jersey who is married to an American man. And in July, a Houston judge granted David Gonzalez of Costa Rica a temporary delay on deportation proceedings that could separate him from his husband. “We have won before, but it’s been on a case by case basis,” said Lin. “We can’t predict if the judge
happens to be homophobic, doesn’t want to give leeway or wants to strictly enforce DOMA.” DOMA, or the Defense of Marriage Act, is the federal act that forbids federal authorities from recognizing a same-sex marriage. And because of DOMA, the only way for a binational couple to stay together in the U.S. is to secure a VISA, which are rare and expire eventually. This leaves gay binational couples with a heartbreaking choice: their country or their partner. Some choose exile together and some are torn apart. Others try to make it work, but there can be great personal costs. Peter and Sam, who did not want to be identified with their real names, have moved back and forth between the U.S. and Sam’s native country in Asia three times in the past five years in an effort to stay within immigration laws and not be torn apart. They now live in North Texas. It’s been hard on them, Peter says. “How long you can stay in one spot really affects your success as a person because it takes time to grow a network of friends and family,” he said. “You lose a lot when you are uprooted like that.” Still, he says, the couple is luckier than most. They have been able to stay together for most of their relationship, except for a difficult six-month period apart, when Peter was living in Sam’s native country. In 2009, Peter started a blog, UnitingAmericanFamilies.net, as a self-help tool for
Let’s Talk About It By Cristina Parker
himself and others as the U.S. Senate was starting to hold hearings on the Uniting American Families Act, which would have ended discrimination against same-sex couples in U.S. immigration laws. The blog includes testimonials and links to blogs of couples living in exile or living apart. And the pain inflicted by DOMA on immigrant families is clear. “There are 1,138 federal rights associated with marriage. Because we are gay, a lack of one of those rights will force us to leave the country or live apart.” “America’s unjust immigration law … is destroying my family.” “It is difficult to fully depict the intense pain that I have endured by being separated from the person I love by thousands of miles.” “We are ripped apart by a common border. By men in uniform who stand at a fence.” UAFA failed to pass in 2009 and Peter admits it has left him jaded. He now believes that change will have to come from the courts. Peter describes how living in North Texas has caused him to go back into the closet in many ways. But no one can hide who they are forever. A turning point for Peter came when a coworker was prying into this home life. “It got to the point where I either had to evade or lie,” he said. “So I just said ‘I live in a homosexual partnership.’ And it didn’t destroy his opinion of me or anything. And I wonder if I am the first gay person he has met.”
“I hope that if that moment is of any value, it shows him by example that maybe gay people really do deserve the same rights as everyone else,” Peter said. “Now my campaign is my life, my story.” It’s no wonder that undocumented students call revealing their immigration status “coming out.” The fear of declaring that you belong to an unpopular minority is something that undocumented immigrants and LGBTQ individuals share. And the ongoing struggle for equality is highlighted where marriage rights meet immigrant rights as so many are taken from their partner, their country or both. But there are many who remain hopeful. The final entry on a now-silent blog linked at UAF.net reads: “If anyone still (reads) this that is a binational couple in trouble, I hope that our marriage offers some hope for you. We went through hell to get where we are and I am glad we did.”
Old Dogs and New Democrats BY CHAILLE JOLINK
It seems Democrats are always struggling in Texas. Sometimes it’s fighting for their voices to be heard against the Republican dominion here that seems to penetrate even the soil in Texas. This time it’s against each other. There is a younger generation of Democrats, that are largely underrepresented, that wants to rise up and be heard at the national level, one that is majority Hispanic. This generation gap is showing up in the Democratic Primary ballot for Congressional District 35. Young and upcoming democratic State Representative Joaquin Castro of San Antonio is running against veteran democratic lawmaker and incumbent Congressman Lloyd Doggett. Castro, a lawyer and higher education policy guru, has served in the Texas Legislature since 2003. Doggett has had a political career in Texas since 1973 before the young representative was born. Doggett started off in the Texas House of Representatives as well and went onto became a Judge, a U.S. Senator and finally a U.S. member of Congress, where he has been since 1994. This race is going to be the biggest primary race in the State of Texas. The election is not until March, and already it’s a heated battle. The district itself is new and could still be challenged in court. As
it stands now it represents part of South Austin and stretches all the way down the I-35 corridor to represent part of San Antonio. It slightly favors Castro because the majority of the voting age population is Hispanic and in the San Antonio area where Joaquin Castro’s twin brother, Julian Castro, is the mayor. Castro has generated a lot of buzz with the few events he’s had in the past month, including his campaign debut at Juan in a Million, where over a hundred people turned out to show their support in the blistering Texas heat.
out with over 60% of the vote in both the primary and general elections of 2004 (both races were also against Hispanic candidates). Most recently in the 2010 tea party tidal wave election year, Donna Campbell despite being a Republican seemed like a formidable opponent in the tsunami wave of conservative fervor. Doggett won fairly solidly with 52 percent and Campbell with 44 percent.
Castro is a bright young star of the Democratic Party. His twin brother was on the Colbert Report last year discussing the immigration law in Arizona, with a gravitas that isn’t seen in a lot of young politicians. They are also both known to be excellent fundraisers within the Democratic Party. The name recognition alone that Castro has is something Doggett has not faced before.
Doggett currently has 2.9 million in his campaign account as of the latest ethics report from the end of March. Castro has nothing to report, and his ethics report won’t be due until the end of September. Castro already has an existing campaign account from running for the Texas House of Representatives, but that money is not allowed to transfer to his congressional campaign. Castro has a pretty high bar to clear by September in terms of raising money; 2.9 million is no small hurdle.
However, Doggett is no stranger to tough campaigns. When the Republican dominated State Legislature redrew his congressional district in 2003 to stretch all the way from Austin to Laredo, he wasn’t anticipated to win, and he came
A lot is sure to happen between now and March, when the voters will decide which Democrat they want to be on the ballot in the General Election of 2011 in November, and until then it is definitely a race to watch. TODO Austin // AUGUST 2011 // TODOaustinonline.com 05
Israeli and Palestinian Youth Attend The 5th Annual Global Youth Peace Summit
This Summer, two Israeli and two Palestinian youth will travel to Austin for the first time to participate in the 5th Annual Global Youth Peace Summit (August 6-13), a project of The Amala Foundation. At the Summit, these youth will unite with 70 refugee, immigrant, local and international youth from 25+ different countries for an eight-day peace conference devoted to heart-centered dialogue, the importance of service to others, cultural awareness, authentic expression and exploration of self and world. The Summit is a sustainable peace movement that offers young people an opportunity to directly experience themselves and their world through the eyes of equality, acceptance and compassion. The Global Youth Peace Summit is also a place for healing. Many of the youth who attend The Summit have experienced extreme poverty, religious persecution, child labor, gang violence, and neglect; some have witnessed the atrocities of war and have literally run for their lives; many have been uprooted from their native cultures and struggle to integrate into an entirely foreign world. The Summit brings together youth from all over the world including Burma, The Congo, Iraq, Somalia, El Salvador, Nigeria, Guatemala, Mexico, Colombia, Uganda, and many more. The opportunity to have the Israeli and Palestinian youth participate came to fruition through a partnership with The Sulha, a grass-roots organization based in Israel and created by peace-seeking Israelis and Palestinians. The goal of The Sulha is to rebuild trust between Israelis and Palestinians, bringing hearts together in the ancient ways of hospitality and peace. It is a place of cultural exchange, compassionate listening, celebration and forgiveness. The Sulha and The Summit are very similar projects in that they are both based on deep listening, community-building and intimate sharing; helping youth find peace with their pasts and with each other. At both The Summit and
The Sulha, youth are empowered to become leaders for peace in their communities. With the recognition that sustainable peace begins from within, the youth are given the tools to find peace and forgiveness through sharing, introspection, and the support of a global community. SHIR, AN ISRAELI YOUTH WHO WILL BE ATTENDING THE SUMMIT, HAD THE FOLLOWING TO SAY ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY:
I think that the first thing to see the horizon of peace is to try melting the picture of enemies between the two nations. I think there is a lot of hatred in every nation based on the lack of knowledge. Without even meeting or knowing the people, our surroundings have decided for us that those people are our enemies. I believe that what is basic is to talk to one another as humans, then we will make a big step towards lowering the hatred. I want to attend The Global Youth Peace Summit very much, it sounds challenging and interesting and exciting. For me this is a new way to dialogue and meet deeply with new people from different parts of the world that suffer from other aspects of “separation”. All my life I was involved in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. I feel that it will help my work with other young people, if I get the perspective of the suffering in other places and cultures around the globe, and widen my point of view of looking at the conflict, and at the ways toward solutions and education for Peace. The Global Youth Peace Summit takes place every year at the beginning of August in Wimberley, Texas. To find out how you can get involved in this sustainable peace movement, please visit www. amalafoundation.org.
Asian Austin: About Town By Yvonne Lim Wilson
Mark Singh,* 12, had been dealing with name calling at school: “Buddha,” “Ghandi,” and had been told “go back to Al Qaeda.” After one particularly bad harassment after school, his mother Amala* reported it to the school authorities. The assistant principal asked Mark to stay after school to identify the harassers. Every day for four weeks Mark stayed late but was unable to find the students. One day, as Mark was waiting for his ride home, an eighth grader, who was not one of the original harassers, came up and said, “You stupid Indian, I’ll f--- your face!,” and nudged Mark three times. Mark pushed back and the eighth grader punched Mark in the face, injuring his jaw. Amala immediately called the school and police and filed criminal charges against the bully. The boy was suspended. Amala contends that the incident should not have happened in the first place. School officials should have had more safeguards in place, with enough adult supervision after school, especially with the previous harassment Mark experienced. “I’m very disappointed it escalated to this,” she said. “I have taken extreme notice of what’s been happening. I don’t see any supervision. These are minors. Parents are dropping them off with the hope of getting them educated and there is all this nonsense taking place.” The Singh family has had to deal with racism regularly since they moved into their predominantly
Caucasian suburb outside of Austin. Mark’s brother was openly called a “sand nigger” by a neighbor and also dealt with racial bullying at school. “I don’t blame the child [bully] at that age,” Amala said. “Racial bullying at that age is not something you just develop. It’s coming from home.” Irwin Tang, an Austin-based licensed professional counselor, has worked with students on bullying issues and is also an outspoken advocate against racist acts and speech. “The worst repercussion is that victims of bullying learn to devalue themselves or to be ashamed of certain aspects of themselves. Kids need to have a discussion about the traits that they are essentially born with,” Tang said. “Children need to know that bullying is not about them. Bullying is about the need of the bully to feel good about themselves,” Tang said. Tang points out that the media has a lot to do with spreading racist ideas, however overt or subtle. Whether it’s Conan O’Brien making racist jokes or Senator John McCain regularly referring to Vietnamese people as “gooks,” children pick up on the idea that racism can be acceptable or even funny. Tang urges parents to establish a good rapport with their children, so that communication will remain open. “It’s important for adults to take up the issue because kids are living in a world controlled by
adults,” Tang said. “It can be very lonely to be bullied, by the very definition of being bullied, because the fact that no one of power is present to stand up for this child.” Mark is one of the lucky ones. With strong family support and open communication, his mother said that he has not let the incidents get to him. Amala and Mark wanted to share their story to help other families who may be struggling with the same issues.
Tang said that in Texas, which has a “boys will be boys” attitude and a history of Jim Crow segregation, we need to work hard to overcome racial violence. “It’s really important for the network of adults who surround this child in his everyday life to really be adamant about responding. A half-hearted response would be worse than no response, because of possible retaliation,” Tang said.
being chased down. The safest thing to do is to tell an adult or authority figure or wait
School authorities need to be watchful and proactive to prevent bullying. Awareness programs for children to talk about how bullying is wrong can be helpful. Parents
should
address
the
child’s
environment to help the child himself. Once it’s happened, the child can seek counseling to allow the child to express there to listen to them.
Yvonne Lim Wilson is founder and publisher of Asian Austin at www.AsianAustin.com, an online news magazine featuring news about Asian American people, organizations and events in Austin. Contact Yvonne at yvonne@asianaustin.com.
By Sachin Shah
One fantastic opportunity is right here in our backyard through the Dell Social Innovation Competition at the University of Texas at Austin, a business idea competition for university students. Students from all over the world are invited to create change at home, or anywhere in the world, with a social innovation designed to tackle a social problem.
Just as we see business entrepreneurs in Austin create and transform whole industries, social entrepreneurs act as the change agents for society, seizing opportunities others miss in
the child could be considered weak or risk
his or her feelings and know someone is
So - how do we get involved, and what does diversity have to do with it?
“Social entrepreneurs are not content just to give a fish or teach how to fish. They will not rest until they have revolutionized the fishing industry.” -Bill Drayton, founder of Ashoka
get hurt or ganged up on. If they walk away,
protect privacy.
What does it mean for the Minority Community?
As the diversity in Austin grows, there are more opportunities than ever for young people to be part of Austin’s burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit. This is especially true for those attending any university in Austin, young professionals, and those with a dose of leadership and philanthropic drive.
good options. If they fight back, they could
*Names and identifying details have been changed to
order to improve life and advance sustainable solutions that create social value.
Unlike traditional business entrepreneurs, social entrepreneurs primarily seek to generate “social value” rather than profits. And unlike the majority of nonprofit organizations, their work is targeted not only towards immediate, smallscale effects, but sweeping, long-term change – often in countries in Central America and South Asia.
Children who have been bullied have no
until the bully is gone to tell parents.
“He has other friends, and I don’t know if they are going to tell their parents about it because families raise their kids differently and they are not as open. I wonder how many kids are in this situation but are afraid to talk about it,” Amala said.
Social Entrepreneurship in Austin: It used to be that if you wanted to make a difference, you joined a nonprofit. And if you wanted to make money, you launched a business. These days, it’s not so simple. More nonprofits are being run like fast-growth startups and more traditional companies are being built around social missions.
What to do if your child is being bullied:
The competition combines creativity and innovation to tackle a pressing social issue. The competition gives away more than $100,000 in cash prizes to at least five winning teams for an expense-paid finalist weekend that culminates in a final pitch and awards ceremony. Suzi Sosa, the Associate Director and Senior Fellow in Social Entrepreneurship at the RGK Center for Philanthropy and Community Service and oversees the competition, says the competition has expanded each year since launching in 2006. “We’ve created new programs to expand outreach and support to students at all stages of their idea generation. For example, we have created two new paid fellowship programs that will provide inspiration, mentoring and support to highpotential students who do not advance to the next round. One of the fellowships even includes a stipend to spend a summer improving your idea and venture plan.”
Information provided by Irwin Tang, licensed professional counselor. For more information, visit www.atxcounseling.com.
Suzi’s husband and brother-in-law, Roy and Bertrand Sosa, started RISE (Relationship and Information Series for Entrepreneurs), a free week-long entrepreneur conference that includes a social entrepreneurship track. The brothers emigrated from Mexico in 1986 and started a company called NetSpend, selling prepaid credit cards to recent immigrants. In 2006 they launched MPOWER Ventures, a double-bottom-line venture capital fund whose mission is to empower the world’s underserved. We are all striving to affect change in one way or another: change in the way social problems are addressed and change in the lives of the constituents we serve. Whether they are constituents in the community we live in or communities in developing countries half way across the world, the goals are the same: developing an innovative and sustainable way to improve social and environmental problem. We are lucky to live in a city where we can leverage entrepreneurial programs for all to participate in and be part of a philanthropic community where we can make the change we want to see in our increasingly diverse society; and increase our minority presence to help solve social and environmental problems. BIO: Sachin Shah graduated from the LBJ School of Public Affairs and is currently a Humanities Associate at the RGK Center for Philanthropy and Community Service.
TODO Austin // AUGUST 2011 // TODOaustinonline.com 07
By Dr. Hani Saleh
On the ninth month of the lunar calendar of every year, the Muslim community of Austin joins the rest of the 1.6 billion Muslims of the world by fasting during the blessed month of Ramadan. In 2011 Ramadan will begin either on July 31 or August 1. Muslims observe Ramadan by breaking life’s normal routines, changing the times at which they eat, drink, wake up and go to sleep. Muslims dedicate much of their free time during the month by striving for spiritual cleanness, reflecting on their shortcomings and working hard to correct them. For believers, the Holy Quran sets the goal for the month and is found in a beautiful verse which translates as: “Oh you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you as it has been prescribed for those who came before you (Jews and Christians), that you may attain piety (self-restraint).” Thus, when Muslims fast during this period, they are observing this tradition that has been prescribed on their brethren in the Abrahamic faith, Jews and Christians. The Muslim community of Austin has grown exponentially in recent years, with estimates of around 11 thousand today. Austin, being the Silicon hills of the Southwest, has attracted many semiconductor design firms which attract many Muslims to Austin. A large number of the members of Austin’s Muslim community are professionals who work in engineering jobs at
these high tech industry and chip design firms. There are six Islamic Centers serving Muslims for worship and community events spread across south, center, northeast and northwest Austin. Each welcome non-Muslims who wish to visit and learn about Islam. The Islamic Centers of Austin provide many services to the community, such as counseling, youth activities, weekend school, religious services and educational services. In addition to the Islamic Centers, there are two full time private Islamic Schools serving the Muslim community of Austin. The Muslim community of Austin does face challenges unique to the faith tradition. It is disheartened by all the negative associations to Islam and Muslims found in the media: violence, terrorism, repressive regimes, backward values, etc. Nonetheless, Muslims in Austin combat unfair coverage of Islam and Muslims by educating their fellow Austinites about Islam through participation in interfaith events, functions for non-Muslims at Islamic Centers, educational opportunities that teach the true values, morals and practices of Islam, as well as attempting to be living examples that represent true Islamic morals, values to demonstrate how Islam and it’s values make them who they are. Ramadan is an especially important month for Muslims to share their faith. Ramadan, which
lasts 29 or 30 days based on the lunar calendar, is a spiritual journey for Muslims who dedicate themselves during this period to reflection and worship of their creator. During Ramadan, Muslims offer more prayers than other days of the year; specifically the “Taraweeh” or “Qiyam” prayer (which takes place about an hour after sunset and lasts for one to two hours). Muslims spend more time during day’s and nights of Ramadan reciting and studying God’s last revelation. Muslims believe that Ramadan is the month in which the first verses of “Qura’an” was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, “peace be upon him-pbuh,” announcing his mission as the seal of the prophets to carry the revelation of “Allah” (God) to humanity. Furthermore, during Ramadan Muslims give more charity to the poor and the needy of their communities, such as food distribution to the homeless. Ramadan can also be described as a bodytraining exercise were Muslims refrain from eating, drinking and permissible sexual encounters from “Fajir” prayer time (an hour before sunrise) till “Maghrib” prayer time (at sunset). The practice is intended to teach Muslims patience, perseverance and strengthens their resistance to physical lust and desire. Muslims are encouraged during Ramadan to reflect on the pain that the less fortunate members of humanity and their communities suffer due to hunger and thirst.
For Muslims, Ramadan is a time to withdraw oneself from worldly affairs and focus on selfreformation, spiritual purification and reestablish their link with their creator through prayers, supplications, good deeds, charity, kindness and providing help to others. The 27th night of Ramadan is called “Laylat AlQadr” (the night of decree), and is considered by Muslims as the most holy night of the year. Muslims believe that the “Qura’an” was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad during this night. Ramadan is followed by one of two yearly Muslim Holidays, “Eid ul-Fitr”, which marks the end of the month of the fast. Per the lunar sighting, the Eid occur either 29 or 30 days after the start of Ramadan. “Eid ul-Fitr” means the feast of breaking the fast; at the morning of “Eid ulFitir” a special communal prayer is performed followed by exchanging visits among friends and relatives. Also, on the day of “Eid” food or money are donated to the poor and needy of the community. Non-Muslims can participate in Ramadan by visiting the Islamic Centers of Austin, or by joining their Muslim neighbors in the break of fast dinners, “Iftar,” that are provided free of charge over all the weekends of Ramadan in almost all of the Islamic Centers of Austin.
ISLAMIC CENTERS OF AUSTIN: Islamic Center of Greater Austin (ICGA), austinmosque.org • Nueces Mosque, nuecesmosque.org • North Austin Community Center (NAMCC), namcc.org Masjid Ibrahim, masjidibrahim.org • Islamic Center of Round Rock, rrmasjid.com • Islamic Center of Brushy Creek, icbrushycreek.org ISLAMIC FULL TIME SCHOOLS: Austin Peace Academy, apacademy.org • Renaissance Academy, racademy.org For more information about Islam or to request a speaker for general discussions you are encouraged to visit www.austinmuslims.org, the Institute of Interfaith Dialog at www.interfaithdialog.org, or the Raindrop Foundation at www.raindropturkishhouse.org 08 TODO Austin // AUGUST 2011 // TODOaustinonline.com
By Gavin Lance Garcia
I met Güner Arslan and his associate, Yetkin Yildirim, both graduate students at the University of Texas, right around the time of the September 11 terrorist attacks. They were the first Muslims with whom I became intimately involved in friendship. These two soft-spoken intellectuals, natives of Turkey who arrived in Austin in the late 1990s, eagerly shared their faith tradition and love of the Holy Qur’an and the teachings of Fethullah Gülen, a Turkish Islamic scholar whose mission is to promote peaceful coexistence and dialogue of civilizations. Their spiritual conviction was infectious. Then came the aftermath of 9/11.
God, resurrection after death, eternal afterlife, messengers and revealed scriptures of God. They share a lot in their moral framework for social conduct. Muslims do not consider Islam as a new religion, but as the last ring in a chain of religions based on chosen prophets and revealed scriptures. Consequently, they believe in the divine origin of the tablets of Abraham, the Psalms of David, the Torah of Moses, and the Gospel of Jesus. They believe in Jesus as a special messenger who was born to a virgin as a miracle and performed miracles himself by God’s leave. TODO: Would you say that Islam is the fastest growing religion in Austin?
Subsequently, it wasn’t long before Güner and a few fellow UT colleagues, with the help of some friends, began planning a series of cultural events for Austin audiences in hopes of reducing false stereotypes, prejudices and unjustified fears of Islam. Güner helped build two institutions of peace from the ground up as a founding board member of the Institute of Interfaith Dialog (now based in Houston with an Austin chapter) and as a volunteer for the Raindrop Foundation, with the goal of addressing the question, “How can citizens of the world live in peace and harmony?”
GA: Thanks to its high-tech industry, Austin has attracted a large number of professionals including people with diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds such as Hindus, Buddhists and Muslims. I don’t have any statistics but if the number of Muslims is indeed increasing, immigration, job-related movement within the country and births to Muslim families could be cited as the major contributors.
The groups cultivated harmony wherever they could, from producing lectures, symposia, interfaith dinners, cultural performances— including annual visits by the Whirling Dervishes from Konya, Turkey—to finding Austin a sister city in Antalya, Turkey. Their 10-day fact finding trips to Turkey for select statewide civic leaders and politicians are focused on promoting bilateral trade relations between Texas and Turkey. These genuine gestures of good-will are the results of well thought out collaborations with politicians, academicians, advocates and clergy, but it’s through grass roots activities that IID and Raindrop most succeed.
GA: The Muslim community is becoming ever more integrated into the general Austin community and has increased its outreach activities to promote interfaith dialogue and mutual respect. As far as I can observe, new generations of Muslim Americans who are born and raised here are helping the Muslim community better communicate with their neighbors and fellow citizens and contribute to the peace and well-being of their communities.
Today, Güner, who received his Ph.D. in 2000 from UT’s Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, where he also taught as an Adjunct Professor, works for local technology companies and holds five U.S. patents. Now a U.S. citizen, he is the father of an eight-year-old son and two daughters ages five and three. Güner shared some observations with TODO Austin about Islam in Austin on the eve of Ramadan.
GA: In our experience, mutual respect is highest among people who know each other at the personal level. For others, sometimes mass media’s focus on negative events hurts mutual respect. There is a proverb in my cultural tradition that says “a person is the enemy of the unknown.” I believe that getting to know each other is the first step toward mutual respect. Overall, I can say that Muslims have found a great deal of tolerance and respect in Austin. I think Austin fares better in this respect than many other cities.
TODO Austin (TODO): Islam shares some of the same ideology as Christianity and Judaism, is that correct? Güner Arslan (GA): First, I would like to distinguish religion and ideology. If you are asking about the similarities among these religions, indeed all three religions are monotheistic and they consider Abraham as their common ancestor. With minor differences, they share belief in a personal, omnipotent and compassionate
TODO: What are trends in the Muslim community you’ve noticed during your years in Austin?
TODO: As the Muslim population increases in Austin, is mutual respect among faith traditions growing?
TODO: What factors contribute to that spirit of tolerance? GA: The City of Austin has a culture that respects diversity. Many Austin residents want to live in peace with their neighbors and prefer to get to know “the other.” Scapegoating and hatemongering do not help any community thrive. People have realized that tolerance is a
requirement, not a luxury, in a multicultural and multi-religious community like Austin. In fact, being human necessitates tolerance for others. TODO: Can you express the frustration you feel as a Muslim American when you must engage false stereotypes directed against your religion? GA: I wouldn’t call what I feel frustration, but perhaps sadness when I encounter negative stereotypes. I have observed that in the absence of dialogue people rely on mass media, hearsay and stereotypes. I believe people usually have good intentions but stereotyping is fueled by misinformation. I think that we Muslims need to be proactive about interacting with neighbors and co-workers and represent the best in our faith tradition. TODO: What drew you to work in interfaith dialogue? GA: I think it is important to believe that as an individual you can promote positive change in your local community and be a part of it. I observed that the more I interact with people of other faiths the more we learn from one another and the more we appreciate each other. Knowing our commonalities and genuine differences can only make our community better-off. I should also mention that I am inspired by the teachings of the Turkish Muslim scholar, Mr. Fethullah Gulen who, by his writings, reminded me the main role of community service and interfaith dialogue in the essence of Islam. IID was established in 2002. But Mr. Gulen’s pioneering dialogue activities date back to early 1990s. The 9/11 tragedy taught us the lesson that interfaith dialogue is not an option but a necessity and the recent Oslo bombing and shooting incidents underlined the very same lesson. Anybody who believes in a peaceful world should be involved in dialogue. TODO: The mission of Raindrop is to introduce Turkish culture into American society and cultivate friendship and promote the understanding of diverse cultures through its unique services to the community, through dialog and corporation. How have you fared in this endeavor? GA: In my observation the activities of Raindrop received a high level of interest and sympathy from Austinites. Americans in general and Austinites in particular are very interested in learning about other countries and cultures. Experiencing a culture with a group of friends is fun. Both Turks and Americans enjoy spending time together in an environment of respect and appreciation. We see that people who attend events continue their friendship. Raindrop also helps my family and other families like ours with their cultural and educational services that serve our children.
TODO: What ways does the Raindrop House involve people from other faith traditions? GA: I think that Raindrop offers courses and activities that interest people and help serve community and these attract people of various backgrounds. TODO: How is Institute of Interfaith Dialog (IID) different from the Raindrop House? GA: The main focus of IID is interfaith dialogue; whereas the main focus of Raindrop is the improvement of intercultural relations. Raindrop is a Turkish-American cultural center. I think visiting the websites to see the scope of the programs of each institute will make the difference clear. TODO: IID’s message is to address the question, “How can citizens of the world live in peace and harmony?” Well, my friend, what’s the answer? Is it possible? Do you see evidence in Austin? GA: In history, we see certain periods where people of different faiths lived in peace and harmony. We see this under the Romans for a period and under the Ottomans for a period. Today, the United States could be seen as an example of such an environment. The recent Oslo tragedy demonstrated that societies that are closed to diversity can harbor violent extremists. In our view, the key to peaceful coexistence is knowing each other accurately and sharing meaningful experiences. In places of ethnic or religious tension it was observed that the more life experiences people share the less likelihood of violent conflicts. As an example, experts observed that in certain cities of India where there are Hindu and Muslim populations, wherever people participate in the same workplaces, professional organizations, sports teams, civil society organizations, etc. the less is the likelihood of violent conflicts. At IID we strive to organize activities that allow people to have direct human communication. It would be difficult to claim that all the people of the world will live in peace and harmony in the future, however, we can always work toward that ideal. TODO: Why have you been so successful with your events, such as bringing the Whirling Dervishes to Austin, and the conferences, lectures, etc? GA: As the Institute, we value participants’ feedback very seriously. I see that almost all our programs are being shaped based on the recommendations of the participants and our advisory board that consists of people from all walks of life and faith traditions. Austin is a very fertile city; many, many people are interested in interfaith dialogue and Sufism’s message of tolerance. Continued public participation and our programs’ success show that we’re on the right path, that we are meeting a real need here.
TODO Austin // AUGUST 2011 // TODOaustinonline.com 09
THE TODO ARTS LIST PRESENTED BY TEXAS PERFORMING ARTS Texas Performing Arts is proud to recognize Austin’s many outstanding arts organizations CAPITOL VIEW ARTS
Lange and His Lonely Knights, Gina Chavez, Mary Welch y Los Curanderos, Susan Torres y Conjunto Clemencia, and special guests. The mission of ALMA (“soul” in English) is to increase awareness of Austin’s burgeoning Latino music scene, provide exposure and resources, and keep Latino musical styles and traditions alive in the Capitol City. Austinlatinomusic.com
FOOTLOOSE – ZILKER SUMMER MUSICAL
Texas Performing Arts and TODO Austin welcome this newly formed nonprofit created to offer business education to Austin’s musicians and revitalize performance opportunities on Austin’s Eastside. CVA’s plans include educational and networking events (including their free inaugural seminar on Tuesday, August 2, 7-9 p.m. at the Historic Victory Grill, 1104 E. 11th, “Getting Your Music into Film & TV: What to Do Before, During & After the Deal”), music festival and conference travel and logistical support, and the preservation and revitalization of the Grill, the “anchor in the African-American community and a destination for artists.” capitolviewarts.org
The Zilker Summer Musical is a rite of summer, now in its 53rd incarnation at the Hillside Theater stage (across from Barton Springs Pool) and runs Thursday-Sunday through August 13 (curtain at 8:30 p.m./dusk). “Footloose,” directed by Michael McKelvey, boasts a Tony-nominated score augmented with the rockin’ rhythms of the hit songs from the movie including the title song. It’s a heartfelt story centered on a father’s longing for the son he lost, a young man aching for the father who walked out on him, and the wisdom of listening to young people with a warm heart and an open mind. Free. $3 parking in nearby lots. zilker.org
CITY THEATRE’S HAIR
CENTROAMERICANTO FEST
Spend a Sunday evening in August with Austin Symphony Concerts in the Park as the series continues on the plaza of the Long Center City Terrace. In its ninth summer season, the free concerts feature a different ensemble of the Austin Symphony each week beginning at 7:30 p.m., performing music from jazz and light classical to pops selections and film scores. On offer this month are August 7 – Strings; August 14 – Brass; August 21 – Woodwinds; August 28 – Big Band. Don’t forget a blanket and something to snack on. www.austinsymphony.org
KGSR’s BLUES ON THE GREEN
Returning to Zilker Park for its 21st season, the beloved series brings the Old 97s and Suzanna Choffel to the stage on Wednesday, August 3 and Los Lonely Boys on Wednesday, August 17. Shows start at 7:30 p.m. They say that hanging out with a few thousand friendly faces in the park under the setting sun and starry skies of Central Texas is one reason why we love living here. This free series is no doubt a treasure that has only gotten better as dining options are now available whereby you can enjoy food and non-alcoholic beverages from six different local restaurants. Blankets, lawn chairs, dogs on leashes, children are all welcome. www.kgsr.com
GISELLE ON THE BIG SCREEN
Four prominent Central American singer-songwriters perform at the Cactus Café on Saturday, August 6, 7 p.m., as part of this touring festival which is making its debut in the US this year. World music lovers will enjoy internationally renowned Guillermo Anderson from Honduras, Jeana and Juan Carlos Ureña (of the band Oveja Negra) from Costa Rica, Manuel Contreras, a noted artist from El Salvador, and Austinite Mauricio Callejas, founder of the music portal Centroamericanto.com. www.centralworldmusic.com
Giselle is one of the most influential of all Romantic ballets, and one of the greatest and most popular works of the dance canon. The title role presents the transcendental power of a woman and involves themes of nature, spirits and mortality. The film is screened Sunday, August 28, 7:30 p.m., performed by the Royal Ballet, London, and is presented in partnership with Ballet Austin as part of Long Center Cinema. www.thelongcenter.org
DANNY CROOKS/LULAC’s LOS LONELY BOYS DAY
WOMEN IN LATIN MUSIC SHOWCASE
Don’t miss this second annual Latina music showcase from the Austin Latino Music Association on Friday, August 12 at Jovita’s (1619 S. 1st Street), with doors opening at 5 p.m. This is a unique opportunity to hear the cross border sounds of some of Austin’s top Latina artists on one bill, with Joanna Ramirez with Larry
AUSTIN SYMPHONY CONCERTS IN THE PARK
This summer, the tribe of the Age of Aquarius will stand up, speak out, sit in and let their hair down in the counter culture of peace and understanding which gave birth to a movement that changed the world forever. “Hair,” the most celebrated and groundbreaking of all rock musicals (“Let the Sun Shine In,” “Aquarius”), plays at the City Theatre (3823 Airport Blvd), August 18-Sept. 11, Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m. and Sunday, 5:30 p.m. A multi-talented, multi-ethnic cast takes a “trip” back to the days of beads-flowers-happiness, directed by Jeff Hinkle with musical direction by David Blackburn, and choreography by Rose Mitchell, Michelle Stuckey and Meg Hubbarth Steiner, with guest choreographer Libby Lovejoy. www.citytheatreaustin.org
Danny is one of Central Texas’ most beloved music scene characters and he is teaming up with LULAC chapter 4876 to honor our own Los Lonely Boys on Saturday, August 27 in San Marcos. The 7 p.m. concert at the Texas Music Theatre features Vitera, Patricia Vonne and Vallejo as well as LLB. Prior to the show, a free family event runs from 1-6 p.m. on the square with Kalua, Este Vato, Boca Abajo, Hell Camino and Down ‘n’ Dirty. Food and refreshments (no alcohol) available plus a petting zoo, pony rides, face painting and a kiddie train. Events proceeds go to LULAC 4876. For evening show tickets go to www.frontgatetickets.com or purchase at the door.
TEXASPERFORMINGARTS.ORG
Off Beat
RIP KEDA San Antonio On “Latin Music” in Central Texas On July 29th, KEDA San Antonio, one of the oldest Spanish-language radio stations in the country went off the air. The familyowned station announced its sale to Claro Communications, a Corpus Christi-based firm earlier that same week. KEDA has played conjunto tejano music since 1966 and, many would argue, played an important role in crystallizing the style. The station is only one of the most recent victims of a much larger trend of closing radio stations and venues that support tejano and/or conjunto music: Austin’s own “Para la Gente” tejano station went off air earlier this year, and only a handful of tejano bars remain in East Austin. So what’s the problem? For one, tejano and conjunto’s audience is aging, the owners of the bars and radio stations are looking to retire and their former patrons go out less and less. But there’s also a larger issue. Tejano, along with other kinds of Mexican and Mexican-American, music falls into a trap of terminology. The music industry term created
Austin Welcomes Punchkin Repertory Theatre When it comes to diversity in theatre, most people immediately associate the term with racial diversity in casting. Admittedly, this was one of the guiding principles at the time that the foundations of Punchkin Repertory Theatre were being laid back in Bethlehem, PA, the previous hometown of the company’s founder, Pratima Agrawal. The word “Punchkin” comes from the name of a road that Pratima’s mother lived on growing up in India. While the name of that road is actually “Punchkuin,” (meaning “five wells” in Hindi), the name “Punchkin” just seemed simpler (as it turns out, it also happens to be the name of an Indian fairy tale character). The company is now beginning to lay down its roots in Austin with hopes of one day having its own resident theater with dedicated and diverse theatre artists. There is no question that creating more artistic opportunities for ethnic minorities is an ongoing challenge for many theatre companies, and it is one that Punchkin Rep hopes to continue
By Melanie Morgan
to sell music in Spanish—“Latin”—has long been associated with either South American pop or Caribbean dance music, leaving Mexican and Mexican-American music out in the cold. In Austin, the phrase Latin music usually refers to salsa bands, maybe to a little cumbia, and to a handful of bands that fuse Latin American styles with funk, rock and other genres. The town has a lot to offer in this category, with bands like Grupo Fantasma, most notably, and more than a dozen lesser-known bands playing regularly at local venues. Roughly, Austin’s “Latin” corresponds with the industry usage of the term. In the music industry, Latin has typically referred to pop music in Spanish—from Shakira and Juanes, to Enrique Iglesias and Mark Anthony—and to music with Caribbean roots— primarily salsa. The term is used to market music to both Latinos and non-Latinos. It would be difficult to explain the absence of music like ranchera, banda, norteño and tejano from this
category, but for whatever reason, the industry never paid enough attention to these genres to include them. Selena and a few other ‘80s and ‘90s tejano super stars are an exception to this general rule, but even these musicians tended to adopt a more generic pop style for recordings with major labels. In Austin, the divide between Latin music and Mexican music is particularly salient because an overwhelming majority of Texas Latinos are Mexican. So, we have to ask, why use a genre label like Latin to describe all music in Spanish, when it excludes so much of the music in Spanish being played in this town? One could argue that Mexican music has its own set of genre labels, and doesn’t need to be included in the Latin category. “Regional Mexican” is gaining as a genre. By combining styles like norteño, ranchera, banda and duranguense, it is gaining significant clout within the music industry. Both Latin and
Regional Mexican are umbrella terms that gain marketing power by including a number of distinct styles. But Regional Mexican is not, like Latin music, a crossover genre. Its intended market is Spanish-dominant consumers, most of whom immigrated to the U.S. within the past ten years. In Austin, a genre label like Regional Mexican will never get a band very far in the community at large. Additionally, while Regional Mexican music only claims to be Mexican, Latin music claims to be allinclusive. Its claims to universality and its exclusion of certain kinds of Latin music are a disservice both the music and to fans. Because tejano and other styles fall outside of major marketing categories like “Latin” their chances are diminished. Not only do iconic stations like KEDA fall by the wayside, but when they do, hardly anyone notices. We’ll miss you. KEDA (1966-2011).
addressing. However, diversity in theatre does not stop at the doors of color-blind or racespecific casting. Nor does Punchkin Repertory Theatre’s mission, which is to be an art and artistdriven theatre company dedicated to serving its audiences with productions which enlighten, inspire, challenge, and unify humanity. In its commitment to the art, Punchkin Rep hopes to spark the evolution of the individual and society. That may sound like a broad mission, but so is any mission that seeks diversity, since diversity, of course, is not limited to race alone. The vision for the company also stretches far beyond including racially diverse performers in its productions. It encompasses collaborating with and supporting diverse theatre artists (locally, nationally, and internationally), tackling challenging subject matter, and creating productions that push the boundaries of traditional theatre. While diversity may be a key element in the company’s artistic process, it is also part of the vision for its audience. Attending theatre for leisure in the U.S. has traditionally been viewed as an elitist or “white” activity, unless the subject matter was relevant to a specific minority. Even with a continuously growing minority professional demographic in Austin, as well as the hybridization and cross-culturization of society, Punchkin Rep still sees a need to bridge the gap between minority populations and theatre. Long-term, the company hopes to expand its reach by connecting with local minority-based organizations, locally-owned businesses, and
12 TODO Austin // AUGUST 2011 // TODOaustinonline.com
the University of Texas at Austin. It also hopes to partner with some of the newly emerging and established theatre companies in Austin as a means of not only creating compelling theatre, but diversifying its audience. Bringing theatre and workshops to underserved communities, particularly underserved youth, is another longterm goal of the company. Not surprisingly, these and other goals will take time to attain. But Austin, a city that never ceases to amaze, seems ripe for fresh and engaging theatre. You may not see big, Broadway productions via Punchkin Rep, but you will see theatre that is not willing to sacrifice quality and creativity for profits. Any new, contemporary,
or classic work that meets the mission of the company is potentially fair game for creative mining and development into a production. Currently, Punchkin Rep is in the process of developing and producing a stage reading of a new play by Austin playwright Jason Rainey titled Gods and Idols, directed by Pratima Agrawal. The play explores a struggling writer’s faith in God (or lack thereof), as well as his wife’s growing obsession with a local musician. Gods and Idols will have a staged reading on Saturday, Sept. 3rd at 7:30pm in the 29th St. Ballroom at Spider House, 2906 Fruth St. Admission is FREE. Visit www.punchkinrep.org for more info.
TODO Mexico
The Adventure Begins Image and words By Katie Walsh
On July 16, after dreaming, planning and making moves for nearly a year, I arrived in my new hometown of Puerto Morelos, Mexico, about halfway between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. I’d taken the quick, two-hour flight through Houston several times before. The procedures were familiar. The thick heat of the Cancun airport was familiar. The tangible sense of tranquility and life slowing down as soon as my feet hit the jet way—all familiar. But this time, everything felt different. Maybe it was the cocktail of emotions that had been swirling through me leading up to this moment. Excitement, anxiety, anticipation, thrill, sadness, uncertainty (and many of their sisters and nephews and cousins) had all taken turns shaking my mind and mood. Or maybe it was the barrage of questions the immigration folks showered all over my newlyarrived head about my plans as a 180-day tourist, my means of survival, my lodging, the current state of my savings account, what I ate for dinner, the name of my first pet, my mother’s maiden name, my preferred brand of chones… But most likely it was the fact that I wasn’t carrying a return ticket. Unlike every other time I’d been here, this time I knew I wasn’t turning around and going home in a couple of weeks. Now, this is home. That concept still hasn’t quite sunk in. The day of my arrival was “13 Owl” on the Mayan calendar, quite an appropriate day to wrap things up (13 is the final number of the daily count) and meditate on new beginnings. Not to mention, not a bad day for a night flight. That theme continued full-force on my first day as a local, “1 Earth/Earthquake”—a day I experienced as one of shaking off residue of the
past and initiating life anew. So many beautiful, subtle “firsts”—true firsts and re-lived, full-circle firsts—opened up before me, welcoming me to my new reality and reminding me that I’ve been here before.
met. It makes him a great snorkeling guide. And also a great conch smuggler—they’re a protected species on the reef, which doesn’t stop him from pulling a few out of the water every now and again.
The day began the way most do when I’m here. A long walk down the beach, a long swim in the open sea, feeling, contemplating, soaking in what life really is. I couldn’t help but imagine coats and layers of who I once was falling away into the sand and salty waves. 1 Earthquake—1 for a fresh start, a new page; earthquake for releasing the inner turmoil that no longer serves the highest good.
Later that afternoon, Paco invited me to join him for a quesadilla. When we found the shop closed, we wandered over to an empty room of brandspankin-new wooden tables next door.
Sunday filled the beach with local families, sharing cold drinks and umbrellas and walking naked, chunky-butt niños down to splash in the tide. The first person to cross my path was an old familiar face, Paco. “No lo creo! I don’t believe it! It’s my young sexy girlfriend! You’ve put some meat on your bones, eh?” Thanks for noticing, Paco. The whole idea of a female’s weight being a taboo subject didn’t make it over to Mexico. It’s rather refreshing, honestly. And Paco’s severely honest.
“¿La cocina está abierta?” Paco asked an aproned woman in the back, hoping they’d be ready to serve. She looked a little bewildered and caught off guard, but invited us to sit. Turns out it was the soft opening of Ristorante de los Tejones Locos (Restaurant of the Crazy Badgers), the first Italian joint in town. And we were the very first customers. The couple, hailing from Salermo, Italy, personally served us a multi-course meal for next to free. The baked eggplant appetizer was superb, as was dessert—a croissant stuffed with what tasted like maple pecan ice cream and lightly sprinkled with nutmeg or allspice. “Our first check!” they smiled as we paid the bill. Paco suggested they frame it. “We’re VIP you know, very good for business.”
“Don’t worry honey, give it two weeks—you’ll be bien delgadita again. Less! You’re sweating it all out already!” He lifted a white rose from a display at the beach bar where we stood and presented it to me proudly, as if he’d grown it himself. Paco’s been a lot of places and seen a lot of things in his lifetime. Now he spends nearly all his days in a mask and flippers exploring the ocean, which he knows more intimately than anyone else I’ve
He walked me back toward town and stopped before we parted ways to say: “Traes buena suerte, chica. You bring good luck. Use it.” I couldn’t help smiling as I walked home. The day wrapped up with a beautiful meal. I stopped by the cooperativa where all of the fishermen bring their daily catch and grabbed a couple of lobster tails—they sell here for about $40 a kilo. Cat, my great friend and
temporary hostess, made her specialty, which involves sautéing them in butter, cream and a splash of Xtabentún (a liquor made here in the Yucatán with anise seeds and fermented honey from the Xtabentún flower) and then dumping it all over a healthy pile of fettuccini. Appropriately, this is the very meal she served for my first dinner on the first night of my first trip to Puerto. Since that first day, I’ve suffered and recovered from a viscous case of full-body hives, become good friends with another floating spirit seeker from Toronto and a half-Japanese hippie who makes chile komboucha and flax seed masa, prepared fresh ceviche and sampled homemade tamales, helped a screaming, crying woman and her children flee from a cheating husband, got a job bartending on the beach a few days a week, found an apartment, and very likely changed the life of a 5-year-old paraplegic boy. That last story’s worth telling. Cat runs a charity here in town called El Mundo para Puerto Morelos and before I left the states she had a disability chair shipped to me to bring over. The young boy and his family recently moved to town, and without the proper medical equipment, his parents were having trouble working and being able to care for Jesus, who is without the use of his legs and most motor functions. The look on their faces when we delivered the chair—Jesus’ beaming smile, his mother’s relief and his cousin’s joyful tears—well, it made all of the logistical schlepping difficulties beyond worthwhile. I feel awakened, liberated, renewed, and incredibly grateful. And it’s only just begun.
AUSTIN CELEBRATES DIVERSITY
Heirlooms are to be cherished. Save them. Eat them. By Heather Lee
LCH Co-founders David Neff, Rich Vazquez, and Aaron Bramley with Board Member Andrea Schulle.
Third Annual Lights. Camera.Help. Film Festival is a Wrap
The Cipher - Austin’s Hip Hop Project Cofounder Shannon Sandrea with Cipher members TeAunna “T-Fly” Moore, Darrion “Chi Town” Borders and filmmaker Christopher Morse.
The 3rd Annual Lights.Camera.Help. Film Festival rolled into town July 28-30, with 26 films over three days in two venues. The world’s first festival for cause-driven film is growing and maturing, and the selections reflected the quality and diversity that the group personifies. On Saturday evening, a wrap party was held at Cuatro, and awards were bestowed on the winning public service announcement, short film and feature film. Proceeds from the festival go to the causes the winning films support. For more information or to get involved, visit www. lightscamerahelp.com
Tomatoes. Plump, succulent, juicy tomatoes. They offer refreshment and nourishment in the dry summer heat. There are the common, red, round variety of tomatoes we can easily obtain from many sources. Then there are heirloom tomatoes. The term “heirloom” typically refers to plant seeds that have been saved over time. Most commonly, they have been saved for fifty years or more.
TENGO HAMBRE
disease eventually find resistance to the chemical pesticides no matter what. The result is inevitably genetic erosion because, without a way to overcome these environmentally hazardous circumstances, plants and animals die off and their genetic code is lost. That might be fine for some. But when the majority of a particular fruit or vegetable that is mass produced for consumption on a global scale begins to erode genetically, it’s time for variety. It’s time for diversity in the genetic code. The introduction of heirloom seeds, these gems of genetic diversity, can help maintain a widespread source of nutrition for the world. Okay. Heirloom tomatoes aren’t going to save the world. But they do serve a purpose other than providing the delight and pleasure one might take from enjoying their fruit. Cherishing the heirloom tomato varieties extends beyond seed saving and farming. It could mean keeping their preparation simple. Try combining them with ingredients like fresh, sliced mozzarella, basil and a little olive oil to make a delicious caprese salad. Or just slice them, add a little sea salt and enjoy. Whatever you do with heirloom tomatoes, it is best to enjoy them simply – for their flavor is to be revered. It would almost be a sin to can them or make sauces out of them, especially when their presence is so scant.
Photos by Erica Stall Wiggins
Heirloom tomatoes are a diverse group. Their varying shapes, sizes, and colors set them apart from their perfectly round, red tomato cousins found in most grocery stores, but it is the superior flavor of the heirloom varieties that really sets them apart. They range from plump, meaty and sweet to firm with an acidic bite. “Paradise Recovered” screenwriter Andie Redwine with Producer Storme Wood and LCH Co-Founder David Neff.
Barbara Koonce and Lorri Haden, the short film category winners for “A Read on Inside Books.”
Some people might avoid the acidity of tomato, thinking there is some benefit to their health in doing so. But, although acidic in nature, once digested, tomatoes alkalize the blood, even possibly providing relief from some painful conditions such as rheumatism and gout. Tomatoes are also, by nature, very cooling and relieve dryness and thirst. In the midst of a drought with temperatures in the triple digits daily, such benefits are golden. There are hundreds of varieties of heirloom tomatoes. Their variety is in fact what makes them so unique and important. The average, mass produced tomato is fine. But, eventually, after growing only one type of fruit or vegetable, something known as genetic erosion begins to occur.
LCH Board Member Andrea Schulle and Events/Fundraising Chair Katrina Tolentino 14 TODO Austin // AUGUST 2011 // TODOaustinonline.com
Genetic erosion is the eventual break-down (or total loss) of a particular plant or animal gene, either drastically or gradually through time. It basically can mean the loss of an entire species. But when there is diversity within a gene pool, the chances of avoiding genetic erosion increase. Genetic diversity allows farmers to maintain productive harvests, fending off environmental attackers like pests and disease. Pesticides are a common cure for many of those environmental attackers. But even pesticides eventually are of no use. Plus, studies have shown that pesticides can alter the genetic structure of both plants and the animals that consume them. Pests and
photo by Heather Lee
The drought and high temperatures in Central Texas have not been kind to the heirloom tomato harvest this summer. But you can still find them at grocery stores around town. Seed Savers Exchange (seedsavers.com) is also a great resource for heirloom seeds, if you want to try your hand at growing your own. When we think of heirlooms, we typically think of old relics, long forgotten but still cherished in some way, even if we have no idea why. Heirloom tomatoes are like nature’s way of winking at us on a hot, dry, summer day to remind us that the fruit of this earth should be cherished through time.
Frame of Reference There are both microscopic and colossal things happening on every layer, in every dimension, in every direction that are leading us into a new world. No, not to the end of the world, silly. A new world. One way or another. If you’re watching, if you’re breathing, if you’re listening, you’ll see it. You’ll feel it. And hopefully you’ll act on it and jump on top of the wave and not be mercilessly drowned beneath it. I, for one, intend to be surfin’ like Bodhi in Point Break. Yes, if I keep going down this path of opinion editorial about where “we” are headed, I will be officially ousted as a wacko, a conspiracy-theorist, a fairy-lovin’, bark-eatin’, no government-trustin’, free-thinkin’ fruity pebble. So, I will try to aspartame-coat it so I don’t risk scaring off any one of my seven regular readers.
By Blake Shanley
The fear and laziness that has always plagued us all into paralytic, mind-numbing, codependent, ignorant lemming behavior is transforming into empowered, balls-againstthe-walls, I-can-no-longer-trust-anyoneto-make-decisions-for-me fervor. There are powerful movements of all kinds brewing and spewing and making change happen all over the world, in spite of and because of the shifts that are completely altering our frame of reference and our understanding of the way this all works. Or doesn’t. To me, when so many things in the world appear to be spiraling out of control and when things seem to be falling apart, without a clear resolution or next step, that is when I know we are about to change the world, intentionally and unintentionally, and I am excited as hell about that. Ride the wave.
There are extraordinary and massive shifts occurring in every facet of our world simultaneously and rapidly. Natural disasters abound, one after another, changing the face of cities, landscapes, skylines, bodies of water, contours, lifeforms and qualities of the Earth. Independent thinking is spreading like wildfire as information flows freer and faster, forcing and allowing people to ask questions and to open their eyes. People are uniting to fight a system, an old tenet, a tyrant, a structure, a conglomerate, a government. People are being pushed into, or coerced into, taking control of their lives, their jobs, their health, their education, their belief systems and their spirituality, and many are running wild with it.
By Yadira Izquierdo
Caribbean Perspective Last week my family came to visit, and one of the places we went during their stay was the Austin Zoo. Without knowing it, I found myself in a place that helped me to describe Austin beyond words. From my perspective, the Austin Zoo is a clear example of what Austin is: a city that cares and a place where making a difference is possible. One of the staff members gave us a tour of the facilities and explained why and how every single animal there became part of the zoo. I was particularly happy with that because even though my niece, a 6 year old girl, was thrilled when she heard that she would feed some of the animals, she also had the opportunity to hear what people sometimes do to animals. More than that, she saw the consequences of neglect and abuse. As an aunt I want her to know she is loved, but also I want to be able to teach her something. The Austin Zoo provides the perfect opportunity to teach a lesson to our children. Animals are not toys, no matter how cute they are. There we saw tigers, leopards and lions that were bought by people who found them cute, but then they grew and became a problem for their owners. Whose fault is this? Definitely not the animals; they only acted according with their nature. People mistreat them because animals don’t act the way we want them to. Some people, acknowledging this, gave up their animals to the Austin Zoo.
The World of Undercover Mexican Girl Through Words | PLUM WRITING By Alexandra M. Landeros
This is Recovery To be honest, I haven’t been keeping close tabs on the economic news, but I do hear hurrahs about how the recession is over, and we are on the road to recovery. Apparently, sales are growing, new jobs are on the horizon, and people have hope and faith that everything is going to turn out okay. How can it not get better, right? And by the way, gas prices are down from that major spike that happened in early May, so it’s no problem to hop back into your SUV and take a summer road trip across the country. (Never mind that despite the drop, they are still at an all-time high since the 1970s.)
belongings have come into our home either free or at a very low cost, it’s no problem for me to send them along the way with a new owner. I joke that if there ever were a fire, the only things I would take with me are my laptop, a suitcase of childhood diaries, my violin, and my 2 dogs.
A few weekends ago, as we were turning the corner into our neighborhood, we saw the telephone pole plastered with “yard sale” and “garage sale” signs – more than I’d ever seen in one place at any given time. We even had our own at the beginning of April, to start weeding out excess belongings in the hopes of one day moving to our property on Terlingua Ranch in the Big Bend desert, completely off grid. It was curious to see that the items we had always considered most valuable were not interesting to our neighborhood shoppers – exotic antiques and brand name clothing pieces were passed over in favor of generic doorknobs and plastic containers. Over the last six years, we’ve led a fairly practical and frugal life. We don’t buy clothes unless we can find them for a bargain at the thrift store, we keep our AC at 80 in the summer and the heater around 60 in the winter, we’ve maintained our 1983 Diesel Mercedes to avoid buying a newer car and having payments, and the library is our main source for books, music, and movies. Our furniture and home décor is a delightful hodgepodge of items discarded on bulk trash days (which Shand has masterfully restored), hand me downs, thrift store finds, and a small handful of IKEA and antique store splurges from the days when we were a two-income household. (Designing on a dime isn’t just entertainment on HGTV.) Some people comment about how difficult it is to let go of personal possessions – I imagine, in some cases, it is heartbreaking if you have some kind of memory attached to it, or you spent a lot of money on it when you bought it brand new. Since most of our
I have to wonder how much hard-earned money goes down the drain at so many of these neighborhood yard sales? For instance, right next door they were selling a giant sports-bar sized TV (as tall as me!) for $10 and a nearly brand new SUV for $5,000. Were these purchases ever made with the idea that one day they would be worthless or that they would have to be sold in order to afford putting food on the table and paying the bills? Think twice before you buy something, whether it’s a $50 shirt or a $500 sofa. Do you really intend to hang on to it forever, or is there a chance it might wind up on a folding table on your driveway a year from now? If you’ve been living a comfortable life up until now, don’t gamble on material belongings. Give up the addiction for consuming and shopping – maybe you will be able to avoid recovery by means of purging.
While I was walking through the zoo, I remembered some comments I have heard before from an acquaintance. “The Austin Zoo is ugly, small and not a real zoo.” Now that I have visited it, I can tell that this zoo is doing a remarkable job. They are giving these animals a place to live with dignity and love. Maybe it’s not a common zoo and some of the animals are old and show marks of abuse, but that’s the purpose, isn’t it? They are rescuing animals that need to be rescued. Furthermore, reality is not like Disney World, shiny and perfect. The youth need both sides of the spectrum. Go to the zoo and enjoy your experience! TODO Austin // AUGUST 2011 // TODOaustinonline.com 15
7TH ANNUAL
Batfest NIGHT OF THE BAT
Ann Richards Congress Avenue Bridge
Saturday, August 27 | FREE 1 PM to Midnight 20 bands on two stages Arts, Crafts, Music, Food, Bat Watching, Children’s Activities, Educational Displays ALL AGES
www.roadwayevents.com
Restaurant & Bar Latin American Cuisine
LIVE MUSIC
MARIACHI TAMAZULA EVERY FRIDAY AT 8 PM
THU 4 FRI 5 SAT 6 SUN 7 FRI 12 SAT 13 THU 18 SAT 20 SUN 21 SAT 27 SUN 28
Roberta Morales 7 pm 2 Rock 10:30 pm Oliver Rajamani 8 pm Las Gabacha-chas 12 pm Naga Valli 10:30 pm Clemencia Trio Quartet 8:30 pm Roberta Morales 7 pm Son y No Son 8:30 pm Enlaces Latinos 12 pm Banda Monoz 10 pm Enlaces Latinos 12 pm
We have relocated from our long time home on South Congress to Austin’s Historic Sixth Street.
MON c CLOSED // TUE-THU c 8am-11pm // FRI-SAT c 8am-2am // SUN c 9am-4pm
600 East 6th Street // 512.444.7770 // www.elsolylalunaaustin.com