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VOLUME IX / NOV 2017
African American Cultural and Heritage Facility Austin Powwow
Eclectic Art in the Historic East Side
Veteran’s Day Art Show Interfaith Thanksgiving
KLRU-TV, Austin PBS broadcast 18.1 / cable 9 klru.org
SEE YOUR FAVORITE PBS SHOWS
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Learn more at KLRU.org Also This Month
Year in Space Follow astronaut Scott Kelly’s record-breaking 12-month mission on the International Space Station.
Wednesday, November 15th at 7 pm; Sunday, November 19th at 4:30 pm
On Two Fronts: Latinos & Vietnam
Anne Of Green Gables: The Good Stars
Examine the Latino experience during a war that placed its heaviest burden on the working class.
ALL NEW: Join Anne Shirley as she turns 13 and faces complex situations with friends, adults and Gilbert.
Tuesday, November 14th at 10 pm
Thursday, November 23rd at 8 pm
KLRU-TV, Austin PBS is community supported. More than 85% of our funding comes from the public. PLEASE CONSIDER INVESTING IN KLRU.
C E N T R O U R B A N O HABLA Austin
HC4A scholarship gala Hindu Charities for America invites the community to help economically disadvantaged students with a gift of vocational education. The public can contribute by attending the HC4A Gala on Saturday, Nov. 4, at 6:30 p.m. at Crowne Plaza. The third annual fete will include local celebrities participating in a fun-filled event to raise funds for scholarships for students in the Austin metro area who are living in poverty. Last year’s gala raised $50,000. Included are a silent auction, vendor booths, cash bar, and a three course Indian dinner catered by Taj Palace Restaurant. Plaza para Todxs in the Zocalo Imagine the zocalo of any given pueblo in Latin America. The smells of elote and street tacos intermingle with the cacophany of sounds throughout the plaza. People from all walks of life share a community space. This is what producers of Plaza para Todxs hope to build. The public is invited to the free event on Sunday, Nov. 5, 5-8 p.m. at ESB-MACC for an evening in the Zocalo with community members from all over Austin sharing their talents, knowledge and wares. Live entertainment/activities and information tables will be featured. Bring serapes and snacks, lie down on the lawn and listen to local music. Play loteria with compañerxs, juegan futbol with Caminantes and relish in a cultural tradition of community as ESB-MACC introduces this urban Latinx experience to Austin. Austin leads way in LGBTQ equality At a time when many states have failed to pass LGBTQ-inclusive laws and policies, cities are stepping up to ensure that all citizens are treated equally, according to a report by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. Austin, along with D/FW and San Antonio earned over 85 points on the 2017 municipal equity index despite hailing from a state without LGBTQinclusive statewide non-discrimination laws. The average score for cities in Texas is 41 out of 100 points, which falls below the national average of 57. Austin’s MULTICULTURAL media source for EIGHT YEARS • Find us at TODOAustin.com
Chica Conference a success After serving as a main hub for Austin Startup Week, Capital Factory played host to dozens of diverse, future female social entrepreneurs between the ages of 9-18 on Oct. 14, for Latinitas’ Startup Chica Conference. Nearly 60 girls ages 9-18 attended the third annual entrepreneurial girls’ conference and came up with nine business ideas to help solve social issues. Noche de Letras book crawl A free book crawl for Latinx authors will be held in various emblematic venues on Saturday, Nov. 4. Noche de Letras, Latinx Book Fest 2017 will include the ESB-MACC from 2-4 p.m. with youth author Cynthia Leonor Garza (“Lucia, The Luchadora”) and author Juana MartinezLeal (“La Princesa and The Pea”). Also from 2-4 p.m., Mexic-Arte Museum will host writer Olga Campos-Benz (“It’s News to Me”), Diana J. Noble (“Evangelina Takes a Flight”) and Rodrigo Hasbún (“Affections”). La Peña Austin hosts Sara Rafael García and Christine Granados (“Fight Like a Man and Other Stories We tell Our Children”) from 5-7 p.m. Resistencia Book Store will host Barrio Writers, a collection of works by teens for teens, teachers and their communities, from 7-9 p.m. “It is critical to support our authors,” stated Veronica Rivera-Negrón, one of the lead coordinators of the event representing LACE (Latino Arts Culture and Education).
Austin’s AACHF added to Cultural Arts portfolio
The African American Cultural and Heritage Facility (AACHF) has been added to the portfolio of the City of Austin’s Cultural Arts Division, part of the Economic Development Department. The facility, located at 912 East 11th Street, provides meeting and performance space for educational and cultural activities, and catalyzes business opportunities and creative collaboration within Austin’s African American community. The move creates synergy with the Cultural Arts Division’s programs and aligns with the City’s priorities of ensuring equity across Austin. “We are pleased to welcome the African American Cultural and Heritage Facility to the Cultural Arts Division,” said Meghan Wells, Manager of the Cultural Arts Division. “The facility’s commitment to cultural preservation and community engagement is foundational and combining their unique assets with our own will allow the Cultural Arts Division to expand our programming and outreach in meaningful new ways.” To mark the occasion, the AACHF will host a celebration, during the East Austin Studio Tour, on Saturday, November 18, from noon-3 p.m. Tours of the facility will be provided, including a special viewing of the African American Portrait Project, “Reflections,” by artist Reginald Adams. Sited in the courtyard of the facility, the mural is comprised of tile portraits of African American leaders who have significantly contributed to Austin’s history. A new tile for the mural, dedicated to Dr. William Astor Kirk and selected by the City of Austin’s African American Resource Advisory Commission, will be unveiled at the event at 12:45 p.m. Staff, led by facility manager TJ Owens, will be on hand to provide information about the resources
of the facility, including a computer lab, meeting rooms, dance studio, and public plaza, available to the community. The event will highlight a new mural added to the exterior of the facility, created by artist Ryan Runcie and supported by Capital View Arts and the Cultural Arts Division, featuring imagery of prominent African American leaders throughout Austin’s recent history. Artworks curated by Capital View Arts will also be on display inside the Facility. The celebration is free, family-friendly, and open to all. Live music, food, and drinks will be provided, beginning at noon. Named after the state-designated African American Cultural Heritage District where it is located, the African American Cultural and Heritage Facility adds to the area’s cultural significance by facilitating arts, business, cultural and entertainment programming. The facility houses the Greater Austin Black Chamber on Side A and the Office of Arts & Cultural Resources on Side B. The L-shaped architectural design by McKinney York Architects has been lauded for its modern design elements. The cultural institution benefits Austin, not only in terms of culture, diversity, resources, tourism, and activities, but also economically in stimulating business and economic development. The African American Cultural and Heritage Facility is a three-part project that includes: restoration of the historic Dedrick-Hamilton House; construction of a 4,000-square-foot building with meeting spaces, offices, and a multipurpose room; and a mosaic mural in the outdoor courtyard commissioned by Art in Public Places.
Olga Campos Benz will appear at Noche de Letras.
Volume IX, Number 7 PUBLISHER/EDITOR // Gavin Lance Garcia info@todoaustin.com ART DIRECTOR // Dave McClinton dmdesigninc.com EDITOR //Lesly Reynaga // lesly@todoaustin.com MANAGING EDITOR // Meredith C. Cox meredith@todoaustin.com ASSOCIATE EDITORS // Liz Lopez, Monica Peña, Katie Walsh, Erica Stall Wiggins, Yvonne Lim Wilson
CONTRIBUTING STAFF // Rose Di Grazia, Callie Langford, César E. López Linares, Genoveva Rodriguez, Diana Sanchez PRODUCTION SERVICES // Anthony Garcia CONTRIBUTORS // Alka Bhanot, Roy Casagranda, Cat Cardenas, Cindy Casares, Evelyn C. Castillo, Lobo Corona, Nora De LaRosa, Laura Donnelly Gonzalez, Mark Guerra, Mari Hernandez, Yadira Izquierdo, Chaille Jolink, Ryan Jordan, Ali Khataw, Ramey Ko, Harish Kotecha, Sonia Kotecha, Julia Lee, Isabel Lopez-Aguilar, Art Markman, Cristina Parker, Carola Rivera, Paul Saldaña, Marion Sanchez, Sameer Shah, Blake Shanley, Dani Slabaugh, Corey Tabor, Rama Tiru, Carola Rivera, Aaron Rochlen, Blanca Valencia, Lesley Varghese, Lichen Zhen ONLINE EDITION // TODOAustin.com
COVER // Artwork by Big Medium 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. © 2017 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 // OCT 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 03
Effective protests make people uncomfortable.
Here’s why. By Art Markman
frustrated enough and driven enough to aim at a protected value as a means of protest, you should start by paying attention. After all, by deliberately transgressing one of your protected values, the protesters have used the biggest stick available to a nonviolent protester. Of course you disagree with their methods — the protest was designed so that you would disagree.
I was struck by the juxtaposition of two recent news topics. First, there were many stories about protests on the campus of the University of California, Berkeley over “Free Speech Week.” And then it seemed every news outlet was talking about President Donald Trump’s comments about NFL players kneeling or standing armin-arm during the national anthem at football games.
Generally speaking, it is a bad idea to trample on someone’s protected values. Moral outrage does not generally put people in a frame of mind to engage in a conversation that might ultimately influence their opinions. Indeed, most protesters do not start with protected values. They start by engaging with the media, using the political system and the courts to seek outcomes consistent with their views, and working in communities to create change. Only when those avenues have been exhausted do people look to do something more visible and potentially inflammatory. When someone transgresses one of your protected values in a nonviolent act of protest, you should recognize that you will respond with moral outrage. Your first reaction is going to be to denounce the protesters and to dismiss their cause because of their methods. As a nation, Americans need to resist this temptation. When someone is angry enough, 04 TODO AUSTIN // OCT 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM
GRASSROOTS LEADERSHIP
The policies of the Department of Justice (DOJ) under Sessions are already extreme and attack various communities. The DOJ agenda under Sessions already includes reviving the War on Drugs, increasing migrant prosecutions, removing workplace protections for LGBT people, and a fixation on so-called “Black identity extremists” in the FBI.
Psychologists have demonstrated that when people have a protected value, they react with moral outrage when that value is transgressed even slightly. Even discussing potential tradeoffs on these issues can be seen as taboo.
Similarly, the flag and the national anthem are central to many people’s identity as Americans, as is patriotism a protected value. Protesting symbols is seen as transgressing this value and creates outrage.
By Cristina Parker
On Friday Oct. 20, community members rallied to oppose the policies of Attorney General Jeff Sessions during his visit to Austin. The rally also elevated the Austin community’s priorities to protect U.S.-born and immigrant communities of color, transgender people, and “Sanctuary Cities” against Sessions’ agenda.
In each case, individuals with a political message engaged in peaceful activities that aimed to provoke a strong reaction. And they were effective because they aimed at a protected value of the recipients of the message.
The organizers of Free Speech Week wanted the opportunity to discuss critiques of Islam, social justice, political correctness and feminism. These issues are protected values for many people, and so discussing them publicly at an elite institution is viewed by many as providing support for a taboo tradeoff.
Community says “Not In Our City” as AG Sessions visits Austin
Sessions planned to speak at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas on the Trump administration’s immigration priorities.
Many of us would be wise to ask two questions. First, why does the protest bother you so much? Second, independent of their methods, is there something in the issues raised by the protesters that is important? The first question is important, because you want to see whether you can separate the medium from the message. Nonviolent protest can have an impact only if people are paying attention. You may realize after thinking about it that there was no other way for a group to get your attention then to attack an idea that you hold dear. In that case, while you may be frustrated by the methods, you may still want to think about the message. The second question aims at whether you believe that you should be influenced by the protest. Here, the answer is more complicated. There may be some views that you are unwilling to adopt, no matter how hard you think about them. However, even for your protected values it can be valuable to understand why you believe as you do. You might even find that — on further reflection — the protesters had a point. Ultimately, though, the only way to encourage nonviolent protest is to recognize that it is going to attack our most deeply held values. Art Markman is a professor of psychology at The University of Texas at Austin and founding director of the Human Dimensions of Organizations program.
In his testimony before Congress on Oct. 18, Sessions threatened to take away federal funding from Sanctuary Cities that limit local cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. As the legal battle over the racial profiling bill SB 4 continues in Texas, the community stands unified against threats from local, state, and federal officials who fail to protect their constituents. “We know that the real reason Sessions is coming is to defy the Austin community as we are fighting to ensure that Austin is a Sanctuary City for all,” said Claudia Muñoz, immigration programs director at Grassroots Leadership, before the visit. “Even as we continue to be attacked by Paxton, Abbott, and the Trump administration, we will show Sessions that he will not break us and we will resist any and all steps he takes against us. He is not welcome in our city.” Trump’s deportation force has become unchained and acting with impunity under the direction of Jeff Sessions at the Department of Justice. The agency’s termination of the DACA program, massive raids under “Operation Safe City,” planned restrictions on asylum cases including imposing
numeric quotas for immigration judges, and recently announced solicitations for more private detention centers represent the greatest threats to safety for the immigrant community. A memo released in April called for crackdowns on immigrant communities in a system that is already at historically high levels of migrant prosecutions. Sessions has also eliminated workplace protections for transgender people in the workplace, endorsed seizure of people’s property by police, revived the failed War on Drugs, and endorsed law-and-order policing despite evidence that more policing does not decrease crime. The rally outside the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Congress Ave. presented the community’s priorities for justice, including accountability and transparency for law and immigration enforcement. Jorge Renaud, Texas Advocate for Justice organizer at Grassroots Leadership, explains, “Under Sessions, the Department of Justice has taken liberty to attack not only the immigrant community but also expand the disastrous war on drugs that has purposely devastated the Black and Brown communities, as well as boosting the for profit incarcerations while maintaining folks in cages. We rally to defy Sessions, defend our rights, and expand Sanctuary for all persons who this administration has targeted. We will not let his white supremacist agenda prevent us from upholding dignity and justice in Austin.” Attorney General Jeff Session was confirmed in February despite serious concerns over allegations that he is a white supremacist. …………………….. Dream warriors, immigrant youth and allies all over the country will lead Operation Dream Act Now on Thursday, Nov. 9, leading school walkouts and mobilizing thousands of people across the country to demand that Congress pass a clean Dream Act by December. November 9 marks over two months since Trump ended DACA, and one year since he was elected as president. The public is invited to join hundreds of Dream Defenders: immigrant youth, allies, business leaders, and people of faith. For more information contact Julieta@unitedwedream.org
“State of Ascension:” Mixed media vessel work by Rejina Thomas. On view from Oct. 26, 2017 to Feb. 28, 2018, “State of Ascension” features art Thomas created during the past two decades. The themes embodied in her meticulously crafted containers and paintings position the womb as a metaphorical looking glass from which viewers experience and understand the world. Based in Seattle Washington, Thomas’ artwork is held in private and public collections around the world. The opening reception is free and open to the public. Black Minds Matter Online “Public Course” Series. A free weekly webinar organized by the Center for Organizational Responsibility and Advancement (San Diego State University). Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Oct. 25 - Dec. 20, excluding November 22. The Black Minds Matter movement comes to the Carver via the Center for Organizational Responsibility and Advancement — CORA’s doctoral class instructing school and college leaders on how to educate, prepare and mobilize their educators. The course focuses on Black boys and men. There will be a live stream viewing and discussion afterwards led by local facilitators and subject matter experts. To RSVP, call (512) 974-4926 the Monday prior to event date you plan to attend.
Honor and preserve Native traditions at this year’s Austin Powwow The 26th annual Austin Powwow, an event by Great Promise for American Indians, is the largest single-day Native American Powwow in the country. In addition to a traditional Powwow with dance contests, Native drumming, and singing, the event features outdoor storytelling and indigenous music, a Native American arts and crafts fair, and Native American food. The event aims to honor and preserve traditions of the past and share them with the Native community and the public. The 2017 day-long event will be held on Saturday, Nov. 4 from 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. at the Travis County Exposition Center. This family-oriented event hosts over 30,000 visitors annually and is one of the largest one-day Powwows in the nation. More than 80 tribes from North and South America are represented in this day full of culture and tradition, featuring over 300 dancers, singers and artisans from across the U.S. and Canada. With $25,000 in cash prizes, dancers are welcome to participate in any of the four categories--adult, teen, junior and tiny tots.
For our annual Día de los Muertos celebration, the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center invites you to see the community altars displayed through November 4! Please join us in celebrating and sharing the stories of the lives of our loved ones.
Monday - Thursday | 9am - 9pm; Friday & Saturday | 9am - 5pm. “Prayer Phone,” a handmade altar with a disconnected phone, is an invitation to the public to “call” their deceased loved ones while giving offerings and prayers. This project reflects a common custom of many Asian traditions: commemorating ancestors and venerating the spirit world. Zen Garden.
Calling all young artists! The ESB-MACC & Sam Z. Coronado Gallery are proud to announce our annual youth exhibit Figúralo: A Figurative Narrative 2017 call for entries! The center is currently taking art submissions from young artists across the Austin area! We are also excited to announce that this year’s Figúralo: A Figurative Narrative 2017opening reception will be held Saturday, December 9, 2017 from 4 – 6pm. For more submission & reception details please contact Lori Navarrete, Culture & Arts Education Specialist at 512-974-3785 or lori.navarrete@austintexas.gov.
Through a variety of educational programs, the Asian American Resource Center is dedicated to providing our community with camps, workshops, classes and events that highlight the rich diversity of Asian and Asian American cultures.
Cine de Oro. Join us on the last Tuesday of each month at the Mexican American Cultural Center (600 River St.) for a special screening from the Golden Era of Mexico’s cinema. Seniors will enjoy a healthy lunch immediately following the film. Please arrive by 9:15 a.m. as screening begins at 9:30 a.m. Admission is free. Please call to RSVP, as space is limited! 512-974-3789.
In Sanskrit, the word for rice carries the meaning “sustainer of the human race.” Rice is a staple food spanning countries from the Philippines, Japan, China, Korea, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and beyond.
The AARC’s Recreational and Intergenerational Community Education is a program designed to address the intergenerational wellness and education needs of Austin residents, with particular focus on the underserved Asian American community. The RICE program is a comprehensive educational program tailored to needs of seniors, adults and youth.
The RICE Program encompasses several components, including the Senior Lunch Social, recreational activities, health education and more.
The Native American Market offers arts and crafts, food and more through over 100 vendor spaces. Strict care is taken to ensure that the goods being sold as Indian-made are just that–authentic Indian arts and crafts. In the majority of the booths, event attendees will be speaking directly to the artisan, or a member of his or her family. Shop the Indian Market from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
and include drum groups with dancers, historic programs with exhibits and audiovisual presentations, speakers and panel discussions. Culture Night is a time for the community to gather, eat, and enjoy each other’s company as they learn more about Native American Culture. The Culture Night Craft Workshop is hosted by local artist and dancer Nan Blassingame (Southern Cheyenne), who provides expert help and guidance for Native American craft projects. Each month will feature a new craft focus, but questions and other projects are also welcome. The community is invited to join in this program every fourth Wednesday of the month from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
For those looking for a fresh eating experience, the Austin Powwow’s food court allows visitors to sample a wide range of authentic American Indian foods. All vendors serve at least one traditional dish, and some offer many more. There will be a convenient seating area right next to the vendor’s booths, and attendees will get to enjoy a variety of foods from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Austin Powwow is hosted by Great Promise for American Indians, a non-profit organization whose mission is to educate the public about Native American culture. Great Promise for American Indians is the umbrella organization for several programs and groups dedicated to presenting the rich traditions of Native American culture to the community. The Austin Powwow and Heritage Festival is the organization’s primary event for reaching out to the Native and nonNative communities. Great Promise for American Indians hosts
AUSTIN POWWOW
several year-round programs and events. Red Voices in the Schools, for instance, brings Indian artists to schools and classrooms to explain and present the traditions of all American Indians, historic and modern. Programs are available to schools and community centers and organizations
The Texas State Legislature has named the last Friday in September as American Indian Heritage Day, which recognizes the historic, cultural, and social contributions American Indian communities and leaders have made to the state. Each year, Great Promise For American Indians partners with the Bullock Texas State History Museum to celebrate this important event. General Admission tickets for the Austin Powwow are $5. For volunteer opportunities and more information, visit austinpowwow.net. TODO AUSTIN // OCT 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 05
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November 2017 Featured Events:
November 2nd, 9am-4pm Old Bakery & Emporium Light and Shadow Exhibit Opening In this dramatic exhibit Bill Oakey and Jack Marshall have very different views of how their photographs are presented, Debbie Rourke creates different perspective *ongoing exhbit until December 6th 1006 Congress Avenue, 78701
More information at: austintexas.gov/obe
November 11th, 2-4pm George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural & Genealogy Center The Rhythm-Africa to America; featuring the Ugandan Children’s Choir A rhythmic, spirited concert alive with the sounds and dances of Africa. 1165 Angelina St. 78702 More information at: austintexas.gov/gwc
November 18th, 6-8pm Asian American Resource Center Styles of Asia Experience a fusion of contemporary and classic Asian fashion styles of fall 8401 Cameron Road, 78754
More information at: austintexas.gov/aarc
Visit our Facebook page for all upcoming events! 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 512-974-3914.
Good Times at Güero’s For great tunes and great rita’s! Please join us for live music on our outside jardin stage, every Wednesday through Sunday. ThAnkS TO The FAnS & BAndS WhO SuPPOrT uS!!! nOVeMBer Line-up
OuTdOOr ShOWS Are “WeATher PerMiTTinG” ------------------------------------------------------------------------
TACO BAr
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To Do Música BROWN SOUND NEWS
Legends of Tejano Music exhibit at Texas State
| By Liz Lopez
There are many genres of music in Spanish and those not familiar with music in that language may not recognize the difference in sounds and tend to describe it as sounding “all the same.” However, it is not. Tejano and conjunto music is quite different in sound compared to “salsa” music, for example. According to a Chris Strachwitz article from the Arhoolie Records archive at the University of Texas at Austin’s Benson Latin American Collection, “The roots of Tejano and Conjunto music are as widespread and diverse, and run as deep, as the traditions, cultures and people which gave them life.” Tejano music has a lengthy history of recordings. As Strachwitz notes, Tejano music was produced on commercial records by the major labels beginning in the mid-1920s. There is some great history in his article about the availability and lack of recordings over the course of the Depression and World War II years and then how it later developed in South Texas. Strachwitz states he had an opportunity to purchase a large collection of music from IDEAL Records. “l felt obligated to buy these priceless artifacts of a vital and strong culture not my own, to preserve this wonderful music for future generations and rescue it from oblivion.” In San Antonio, music writer Ramon Hernandez told the (now former) San Antonio Express News writer Hector Saldana in 2015 that he found himself becoming a collector of music artifacts in the mid-1980s. He cited handwritten sheet music by the late composer Juan Gaitan as a favorite of his collection and it grew from there into the Hispanic Entertainment Archives. The founder/ curator has an expansive collection of artifacts, memorabilia and sought-after collections on varied Latino celebrities and they are normally viewed by appointment only. “Ramon Hernandez is a legendary figure himself,” said Wittliff Collections Director Dr. David Coleman. “He singlehandedly saved and preserved the legacy of so many iconic musicians. In the process, he built one of the signature music collections in America.” The late Tejano Music icon Emilio Navaira was from San Antonio and attended Texas State University. He was the subject of a special exhibition at the Wittliff Collections last year after his death in 2016, and the guest curator was Ramon Hernandez. The exhibit displayed highlights of the entire career of the beloved music legend and was drawn from Hernandez’s extensive personal collection, as well as items loaned by courtesy of Emilio’s wife, Maru Navaira. 08 TODO AUSTIN // OCT 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM
Hernandez described the musical artist’s legacy for the Witliff Collections exhibit last year. “Emilio broke attendance records as a Tejano artist at livestock and rodeo shows,” Hernandez stated. “He filled arenas in Mexico, won coveted Grammy Awards and dominated the Tejano Music Awards for years. He continued his upward climb when he recorded country music and went on tour with fellow Texas State University alum George Strait and other top C&W artists.” The Witliff Collections currently has many items from the famed musicologist’s archives in an exhibit titled “Legends of Tejano Music: Highlights From The Ramón Hernández Archives” and it will run until December 20 for the public to view with no admission fee. The focus of the exhibit is on the rich history of Tejano music treasured artifacts that shows how Tejano music evolved from the early 1900s to present day through a series of hybrids, and how it continues to spin off into new genres. Visitors can view historic photographs, one-of-a-kind stage outfits, vintage concert posters, rare recordings, artifacts and instruments from legendary stars including Lydia Mendoza, Laura Canales, Freddy Fender, Little Joe Hernández, Sunny Ozuna, and Selena, among others. On Sunday, Nov. 12, The Witliff Collections invites the public to attend a panel discussion and Q&A along with a reception from 2 - 4 p.m. There will be an artist’s discussion featuring Ramón Hernandez, Little Joe Hernandez, Sunny Ozuna and Shelly Lares, legendary artists featured in this exhibition. The discussion will be moderated by The Wittliff’s new Texas Music Collection curator, Hector Saldaña.
The Wittliff Collections also has a new photography exhibition, “IN HARMONY: Celebrating Music in Photographs,” and the gallery has over 90 photographs featuring musicians from small town streets to the grandest of stages, including several Tejano artists. The reception held in October for this exhibit was well attended by photographers, musicians and the founder of The Wittliff Collections, Austin screenwriter and photographer Bill Wittliff, and his wife Sally. Exhibitions and events at the Texas State University Wittliff Collections are free and open to the public (unless noted). The Wittliff Collections are located on the seventh floor of the Albert B. Alkek Library at Texas State University in San Marcos. Visitor information, including hours, directions and parking details, is available at thewittliffcollections.txstate.edu. --The Latin Dukes are working on their debut album. Based in Austin, the Latin Dukes play an eclectic blend of Latin music, drawing influences from Madrid to Habana and beyond. If you are interested in supporting their efforts, visit their GoFundMe page for details on how to contribute. Contributors will have access to special rewards and exclusive content as a gesture of gratitude. For more information on the group, visit their Facebook page. --Rick Fuentes and the Brown Express Band have released the new single and video for “Cumbia International – Don’t Stop the Party,” presented by Revolution Records and available via different sources. For more information on the band and music visit brownexpressmusic. com. --Ashley & the Boyz are looking for a wellrounded drummer for a Tejano/ Variety band. All who are interested will be invited to an audition/practice with the rest of the band.
For more information on the auditions, text or call 512-363-2344 or find Ashley Borrero on Facebook. --RECOMMENDED SHOWS Café Con Letras continues celebrating art for the art itself for over ten years and in this month’s edition, they will present the Latin American living legend Gabino Palomares in concert as he celebrates 45 years of his artistic career. He will sing his iconic songs and present his book “Cien Canciones de Amor y Patria” (Pluralia Ediciones), in which he compiles his extensive work. Palomares is one of the founders of the Mexican “Canto Nuevo” movement. The concert takes place at Blackerby Recital Hall, 1111 W. Anderson Lane, Saturday, Nov. 18. Doors at 7 p.m., concert at 7:30 p.m. Cover is $10 (cash only). For more information on this cultural group, visit alianzacultural.net or email info@ alianzacultural.net. --Esquina Tango Austin is host to “Viernes Sociales” (Social Fridays) the first Friday of every month. DJ Fabian Cuero plays Salsa, Bachata and more. Bachata (all level) class is taught by Sidney Joseph Jr. from 9 -10 p.m. Cover is $15 class and social or $10 social only. Also, Latin Night with “Ivan Garcia y su Son Cubano” will be offered on Saturday, Nov. 18, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. esquinatangoaustin.com. --It’s Tequila Thursday each week with Mariachi Guadalajara from 7 - 9 p.m. Enjoy some amazing mariachi music while dining and you can request your favorite song. Stop by for a good time. Los Chilaquiles, 200 S Bell Blvd., Cedar Park.
East Austin Studio Tour’s 16th edition to feature over 500 participants By Carola Rivera
Big Medium’s East Austin Studio Tour is back this November bigger than ever for its 16th edition. The free, annual, self-guided art event spanning November 11-12 and 18-19 provides opportunities for the public to meet local artists and artisans of Austin in their creative spaces. The 2017 tour includes 505 participants, with 241 artist studios, 66 galleries, 155 temporary exhibitions, 26 happenings, 10 libraries and seven schools. The artist studios, where the creativity begins, are a must-visit as this is the one time of year for many of these spaces when the community can get a special glimpse into the inspiration, process, and techniques of the artist. The catalog of venues serves as an overview of tour stops and a schedule of events, helping tour-goers to choose their own unique EAST experiences. The tour features something for everyone, with a broad variety of art forms and media represented in the tour,
including drawing, painting, design, collage, photography, video/film, sculpture, wood, metal, ceramic, jewelry, furniture and more.
preview the EAST Group Exhibition. At 8:30 p.m., kick-off the tour at the opening of the EAST Group Exhibition, grab your EAST catalog, and enjoy complimentary beverages from Tito’s Handmade Vodka, 9 Banded Whiskey, Austin Beerworks, Meridian Hive, William Chris Vineyards, Topo Chico, and Wunder-Pilz Kombucha! Tunes by Chulita Vinyl Club, games from Austin Art Services and a silent auction.
For first-time attendees and anyone looking for a starting point, start the tour at the Community Breakfast on the first Saturday of the tour from 9:30 - 11 a.m. at the EAST Group Exhibition (1300 E 5th St). Tour-goers will get to kick off their EAST experience with food, drinks, and enjoy a preview of artwork available on the tour. Food and drinks will be catered by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, High Brew Coffee, Topo Chico, Wunder-Pilz Kombucha, Rockstar Bagels, Bobo’s Oat Bars, Thai Fresh, Vegan Nom, Mmmpanadas, Urban Roots, Sprouts Farmers Market, and more. Family friendly activities by Animal Facts Club and Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center will also be available at the Community Breakfast. East Austin Studio Tour’s design theme for 2017 uses flowers as a way of emphasizing the importance of regionality and peace in response to our current tumultuous cultural climate. Ten EAST artists each illustrated a seasonal, native flowering plant, selected through Big Medium’s partnership with the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. While the tour is free to attend, the community is welcome to contribute to EAST at the kickoff fundraiser, Due EAST, on Thursday, Nov. 9.
Participants for this year’s EAST were selected by a Review Committee. The three-member panel featured Jade Walker, Executive Director of Art Alliance Austin, Oliver Franklin, Director of the Elisabet Ney Museum, and Rebecca Gomez, Curator of Exhibitions and Programs at Mexic-Arte Museum.
Jana_Swec_Studio
(1300 E. 5th St.). At 6 p.m., guests can enjoy the Native Wildflower Dinner, a four-course meal and more with local artist and chef, Sonya Cote. Inspired by the 2017 theme of native flowering plants, the dinner will include cocktail and wine pairings. Guests will also receive an exclusive EAST takeaway bag and will be the first to
Veteran’s Day art show will help furnish homes for formerly homeless residents
East Austin Studio Tour is organized by Big Medium, a non-profit organization dedicated to championing and cultivating artists and the contemporary arts in Austin and across Texas. Through programs and partnerships, Big Medium works to foster the arts and facilitate an inclusive cultural dialogue between artists and their communities. The official list of over 500 artists studios, exhibitions, special projects, and events participating in the 16th edition of EAST and more information is available at east. bigmedium.org. veteran artists to give back to the community as 20 percent of all proceeds from the sale of art will go to the Austin Furniture Bank. The Austin Furniture Bank is a non-profit organization that provides basic furnishings and household necessities to help formerly homeless persons transform their newlyacquired empty dwellings into homes.
By Chris Van Loan Sr.
www.leslyreynaga.com
The Austin Visual Arts Association, a nonprofit arts organization, will present an exhibition featuring art created by U.S. military veterans to celebrate Veterans Day. The opening event for the show will take place on November 10, 2017 from 6 - 8 p.m. and the art will remain on display and for sale from November 11 (Veterans Day) until December 2. The exhibition will be at the Austin Art Space Gallery, 7739 Northcross Dr., Suite Q. Attendance is free. Art Space Gallery hours are Fridays and Saturdays, 11 - 6 p.m. “This show provides an opportunity for people to see and own art work created by very talented veteran artists,” said Chris Van Loan Sr., the curator of the show and U.S. Army Veteran. “We also want the public to know that the art will not be military themed, because we veterans have a wide range of talents and interests beyond our service to our country.”
Austin Visual Arts Association programs are supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin Economic Development Department.
The event will also allow the public and
More information available at avaaonline.org.
Pose, acrylic on canvas by Brian Dubreuiel
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Restaurants of the month — Manuel’s and Jack Allen’s Kitchen By Rose Di Grazia
When I think of Manuel’s restaurant downtown and in the Arboretum I think back to the days of my early 20s. At the time I had moved from New York to Austin to attend college. Like most college students, I was going to school and working downtown. It was downtown where I discovered Manuel’s at first. It was a winter day and I went in search of chicken caldo (Mexican soup). Little did I know at the time I had developed walking pneumonia. I will never forget how sweetly I was treated at this restaurant. I had just come in off the bus and was coughing my head off. I was seated in a cozy booth near the back of the restaurant. The waiter took my order. Since I was ill I ordered the hot spicy broth. I could feel it warming my throat as it went down. It was just what the doc ordered. Half-slouched in the booth, I appreciated the waiter who kept checking on me. I was coughing so much he could hear me across the room. It was Christmas Eve, and I was deathly sick. All I remember is the waiter bringing me a tablecloth to put around me because I was shivering. I ate the delicious broth and the waiter asked if there was someone he could call for me--he must have been a dad. I asked him to call a cab to take me to the hospital and he did. I will never forget how he gently put his arms around me and helped me get into the cab to go to the hospital. I will also never forget that Christmas in the hospital and the loving kindness of a waiter at Manuel’s restaurant downtown.
has a few locations. The one downtown (on Congress Avenue) is still going strong and I recently visited the one in the Arboretum. This one has a lovely patio and fountain flowing outside the front doors. If you want to dine outside come early because the patio fills up quickly every night. On this fall day I had the pleasure of dinning inside. The service here is excellent. I had the alambres for lunch. The dish included skewered grilled shrimp, vegetables and pineapple on a bed of rice. It was a perfect, healthy and tasty lunch. For dessert, I had the traditional flan. Their flan was yummy and the perfect way to end a fabulous meal. The dessert had vanilla custard with a coconut-like crust with blackberries.
This is Jack’s four restaurant in Austin — it just
For brunch, lunch, dinner or just drinks, you better hit the road and head on down to Jack’s. You will come back for more--I guarantee it! More details at jackallenskitchen.com.
Jack Allen’s Kitchen has a new location on Anderson Lane. I went in to this place to interview Jack without a clue that I knew him from my childhood. It was a shock when I asked him where he grew up and he told me the name of the street--he was the Jack Gilmore that lived down the street from my house growing up. Not only was he one of the Gilmore boys that my older brothers knew, but his sweet mom was a registered nurse like my mom and they would chat on the phone regularly. What a small world! Manuel’s Downtown
Thanksgiving for DACA recipients By Rene Castro
Growing up, if I had told my grandma that I wasn’t coming home for Thanksgiving, there would’ve been hell to pay. Growing up, I had a lot of friends who would go to each other’s houses, or even to concerts or football games for the entire day on Thanksgiving. No way. That would not fly with my abuela. In her philosophy, you were coming home, you were going to eat the food, and then you would stay, because Thanksgiving is about family, and to spend time with them is to show them that you love them. But these are trying times. President Trump announced that he might extend the March 5 the deadline to end protections for young undocumented immigrants if Congress fails to do anything. Regardless of the outcome, the program is ending, and many families will suffer. This is
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opened in July. He shared with me that he wanted a farm-to-table restaurant where he could support the local farmers--and he has succeeded. The lunch specials are available daily and range from $10.99 to $13.99 in price. Choose from Ruby Red Trout and chicken enchiladas, or do like I did and order the fried chicken breast and creamed gravy. The chicken sits on top of red mashed potatoes--not to mention the green beans with onions and carrots.
Manuel’s also offers a wonderful bar and happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. It is a great restaurant to bring a date or the family. Let’s not forget both restaurant locations offer Sunday brunch and live music for Austinites wanting to dine out for breakfast. To this day, Manuel’s restaurant is not only a great place to eat but also a place where they treat you just like family. For more information, visit manuels.com. ___
I must say, Jack Allen’s is my new favorite restaurant in the neighborhood, and not just because I happen to know the owner. It’s a nice alternative to the variety of taco places, Asian food and fast food along Anderson Although this is an old memory, Manuel’s Lane--sometimes you need to change things still continues to thrive today. The restaurant up a little. Jack Gilmore
Step inside this gem on any given Sunday and enjoy buffet-style brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. If sleeping in on Sunday is your thing, then come to the restaurant during the week and sit on the sunlit patio. The skylights overhead aid in bringing in the sunshine, and there’s a lovely view of the trees. The patio has a rustic wooden farmhouse feel. Plop down on one of the red chairs and gaze out the garage doors with drink in hand. For the sports nuts, there are televisions hanging overhead to view those weekend games. Blue and white napkins adorn the top of the matching plates (Martha Stewart would approve).
when I’m reminded of that old Chinese curse, “I hope you live in eventful times.” There will be empty chairs and uncomfortable silences at the dining table on Thanksgiving in years to come. On the very day that celebrates togetherness and giving thanks, there will be separation, and hard questions. Why was this allowed to happen? Who benefits, and what do they gain? When this shows up in history textbooks, will the public school teachers gloss over the gritty details, the blatant racism? I can already hear the words “political will” and “hard realities” coming out of underpaid mouths into the ears of naïve students desperate to learn why the country they are forced to pledge allegiance to every morning does not promise allegiance to them. Only when the cards are right and you have been born in the right place and your skin is the right hue of freedom does this country acknowledge your right to take up space. If I learned anything from my grandma, it’s that there will be hell to pay for this.
CELEBRATING
DIVERSITY
BRIDGE2BRIDGE From Montopolis Bridge to 360 Bridge, Everything Austin
Interfaith Thanksgiving Riverbend Church
For the past 32 years, Interfaith Action of Central Texas (iACT) has brought the Annual Interfaith Thanksgiving service to the Austin community. The event is a unique opportunity for Austinites of all faith backgrounds to come together to give thanks as one community. This year’s service will be hosted by the Austin Muslim Community and held at Riverbend Church (4214 N Capital of Texas Hwy) on Sunday, Nov. 19, at 3 p.m. iACT invites the public to the free, family-friendly event to hear prayers and practices from all of Austin’s faith communities, learn about and appreciate the beauty and diversity of Islam, and share in a reception after the service. Community organizations will share resources at tables during the reception. Food and refreshments will be provided but the public is invited to bring a favorite dish ready to serve and labeled for those with dietary restrictions. Area clergy members from all denominations are invited to join in the procession at the beginning of the service. iACT’s mission is to cultivate peace and respect through interfaith dialogue, service and celebration. The organization was created to build healthy relationships between the faith communities of Central Texas. The annual Interfaith Thanksgiving service finds clergy from Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Baha’i, Unitarian, Sikh, and other faiths joining with secular, or simply spiritual seekers, each voicing their commitment to building a welcoming community. Collectively, the group believes that a future of peace and respect begins with individuals and that the work cannot be left to diplomats and dignitaries. It is essential that the faithful receive encouragement to play a leading role in the challenge of bridging the faith divides of our community and mediating interfaith conflict.
For more information on iACT or Interfaith Thanksgiving go to interfaithtexas.org.
The McKinley Heights, Clifford Sanchez, Homewood Heights Neighborhood Association host the 4th Annual East Austin Community Festival on Saturday, Nov. 4, 12– 6 p.m. at Space 12 (3121 E. 12th St.). Citywide neighbors are invited to the family-friendly, free event, with live music, vendors and food, and proceeds supporting the Central Texas Food Bank (you’re invited to bring cans of nonperishable food).
AUSTIN POLISH AND AUSTIN JEWISH FILM FESTIVALS
Experience world class music, dance, food and fun at the Austin Celtic Festival, Nov. 4-5 at Pioneer Farms. Discover regional and international Celtic music and dance, the Austin Highland Games, Celtic dogs and horses, a Celtic village including weavers and combat demonstrations, workshops on music, dance, Irish language, Scotch tasting and more. Tickets must be purchased online at austincelticfestival.com S and S Productions presents magically mischievous aerial and burlesque at The Belmont on Saturday, Nov. 4, doors at 8:30 p.m. Dirty Disney is an encore celebration of all of your favorite Disney films. Sixteen acts feature Texas’ best sexy-flexy pole dancing, stunning aerialists, amazing contortion, hot burlesque acts and live performance artists. Expect a magically mischievous show. thebelmontaustin.com Fifth House Ensemble teams up with composer Austin Wintory to present an original, interactive live performance of his Grammy-nominated score to the video game Journey. Journey is an online interactive parable, and in this unprecedented collaboration, 14 live musicians respond to the actions of game players in real time on stage. Wednesday, Nov. 8, 8 p.m. at Bass Concert Hall. texasperformingarts.org Austin Shakespeare presents Much Ado About Nothing, Nov. 15–Dec. 3, in Rollins Studio Theatre. Set in the lush “Belle Époque” at the turn of the 20th Century, Shakespeare’s exuberant romantic comedy of wellmatched feuding lovers includes surprisingly delightful onstage music in an intimate theater experience. In a celebratory spirit, music will fill the air as you’re taken away to sunny Italy. austinshakespeare.org Join the Asian American Resource Center and local CBS anchor Hema Mullur for an evening of classic and contemporary Asian Pacific Islander Fashion. Austin area cultural groups will showcase traditional Asian Pacific Islander clothing and the latest in fusion/contemporary stylings. Enjoy local Asian American fashion, beauty vendors, photo booth and more. Saturday, Nov. 18, at AARC. austintexas.gov/aarc Austin’s most rockin’ holiday tradition returns to make merry with a new music to get the party started. ZACH’s inspired adaptation of the Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol, is a musical sleigh ride through rhythm and time, infusing the traditional Victorian story with a musical score that spans all genres and eras. Motown meets the HoHoHolidays in this family celebration. From Nov. 22Dec. 31 at Topfer Theatre.
Right on the heels of Fantastic Fest and the Austin Film Festival come the Austin Polish Film Festival (Nov 2-6) as well as the Austin Jewish Film Festival (Nov 4-10). The Austin Polish Film Festival and Poster Exhibit provides a unique opportunity for central Texans to experience award-winning films and meet guest artists from Poland and Eastern Europe, outside of the regular film festival circuit. The Austin Polish society has been producing the festival since 2006. In addition to the traditional lineup of moving and groundbreaking films that are part of the festival, this year also has several already commended titles. One of them is “Afterimage,” the last work of the acclaimed late Polish film director Andrzej Wajda, who died in 2016 at the age of 90 soon after the release of this film. Also of note this year is the 2017 film “Spoor,” which is Poland’s submission to the Oscar’s competition for the best foreign language film, directed by Agnieszka Holland. Founded in 2002, the Austin Jewish Film Festival is an annual cinematic exploration of global Jewish and Israeli life, history, complexity, culture and filmmaking for everyone. The AJFF is the only Jewish event in the Greater Austin region’s arts calendar, attracting approximately 1,000 diverse patrons annually and garnering international acclaim. This year’s opening night film is “1945” from Hungarian director Ferenc Török. The film is not about the Holocaust, but rather a drama that relates the events of a single afternoon in a remote Hungarian village where the arrival of two Orthodox Jews catalyzes an unwelcome reckoning with the recent past of the locals. It has already won awards at the San Francisco Jewish Festival, the Berlin International Film Festival and the Jerusalem Film Festival. For more information on both events, visit austinpolishfilm.com and austinjff.org/wordpress. TODO AUSTIN // OCT 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 11