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Volume V / August 2013
Inside
Lights. Camera. Help. Film Festival
Youth Peace Summit Jade Chang Sheppard Om Shanti HispanosNet Austin
Five Years of Reel Inspiration By Erica Stall Wiggins
LCH founders David J. Neff, Rich Vázquez and Aaron Bramley at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Village
Photo by Mari Hernandez
HABLA Austin Mexic-Arte Museum’s Calavera Mural Mexic-Arte Museum is celebrating the Day of the Dead with 100 hand-painted calaveras (skeletons). Patrons are invited to honor and remember loved ones or give a gift by purchasing their own calavera on the museum’s 5th street public mural. Each day, a calavera will be painted on the exterior wall to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of Mexican engraver and political satirist, Jose Guadalupe Posada (1852-1913). Posada created one of the most famous images frequently associated with the Day of the Dead holiday, “La Calavera Catrina.” A $25 fee will secure a hand-painted name below one calavera on the mural. Those signing up will have their name painted one to three days after purchase, which may be made from July 29 through November 6, 2013, either online or during Mexic-Arte Museum store hours.
East Austin Summer Speakers Series
Paul Saldaña Joins NCLR Board of Directors
A timely and important free informational series will be held this month in the Community Room at El Centro de Familia (6002 Jain Lane) to provide attendees with an understanding of East Austin’s socio-political landscape, history and current place in Austin politics through the insights of prominent Austin leaders.
By Kathy Vale
The first session on August 1, 6:30-8 p.m., will inform people about what affordable housing is, what is happening in East Austin regarding affordable housing, how individuals can qualify, what the requirements are, and how the community can get involved in the process. Among the speakers are Johnny Limon and Richard deVarga. Comprehensive Immigration reform is the purpose of the August 15 gathering, 6:30-8 p.m., to inform the community about the issue, the do’s and don’ts of the process, what to expect and how individuals can help and get involved and advocate for the bill. Scheduled speakers include Sonia Troche (NCLR), Jose Ibarra (NCLR), Fidel Acevedo (LULAC), and Alejandro Caceres (AIRC). Resistencia Summer Documentary Series Hosted by Red Salmon Arts and Las Telarañas Collective, two documentaries are playing this month to showcase the work of independent Latina filmmakers and the stories they tell. August 2 is “Dona Guille y el Gran Mercado,” by Juan Elizondo and Michelle Mejia, and showing August 16, “The American Dream,” by Anabel Gómez. The documentaries are short films that preserve and honor the history and struggles of members of our communities. Films begin at 7:30 p.m. at Resistencia Bookstore, home of Red Salmon Arts, 1801-A South First St., with poet and comedic social commentator, Diana Gomez, opening each screening. Snacks and refreshments will also be served. Suggested donation is $5. Hatha Yoga Workshop Well known for his ability to channel healing energy and a veteran performer of 30 years, Daniel Llanes is offering a four session Hatha Yoga workshop from Wednesday, August 7, through Saturday, August, 31. There are two options to join in the Hatha Yoga workshop – an integrated practice that is gentle and subtle yet extremely effective – either Wednesday evenings (5:30 p.m.) or Saturday mornings (9 a.m.). Either session series is $60. The workshop will teach five fundamental asanas that, when practiced on a regular basis, will serve to improve and maintain physical health, concentration and peace of mind.
TODOAustin.com is a vibrant new website site providing multimedia features, the print journal content, enhanced event listings, special creative features and staff and community-led blogs, with links to archived past printed issues, augmenting social media networks in Austin’s multicultural community.
Volume V, Number 4 PUBLISHER/EDITOR // Gavin Lance Garcia info@todoaustin.com ART DIRECTOR // Dave McClinton // dmdesigninc.com ASSOCIATE EDITORS // Evelyn C. Castillo, Katie Walsh, Erica Stall Wiggins SENIOR EDITORS // Lobo Corona, Sonia Kotecha, Diana Sanchez, Lesley Varghese, Yvonne Lim Wilson CONTRIBUTING EDITORS // Güner Arslan, Mia Garcia, Harish Kotecha, Alexandra M. Landeros, Callie Langford, Cristina Parker, Blake Shanley Contributing Writers/Photographers/Artists
02 TODO Austin // Aug 2013 // TODOAustin.com
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Paul Saldaña is one of two Texas Latino/a leaders recently elected to serve on the Board of Directors for the National Council of La Raza (NCLR). NCLR is the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the U.S. Paulwas elected along with Mary Alice Cisneros of San Antonio to represent the Southwestern states. Paul is well primed to take his local and statewide passion to the national level, collaborating with like-minded national Latino/a leaders focused on improving the quality of lives for America’s growing Latino population. With his trademark passion, he Paul Saldaña will continue working on the issues we are all grappling with right now: advocacy and empowerment, civil rights and justice, education, immigration, economy and workforce, children and youth, and research. Austin Music People Voter Registration Local advocacy group Austin Music People (AMP) will host a series of voter engagement events aimed at young voters, as well as live music fans, musicians, music industry professionals and other Austin residents who care about the creative economy. The first event is a free training at Austin City Hall for citizens to become volunteer Deputy Voter Registrars, to be held Tuesday, August 20, from 2-3 p.m. Those who complete the one-hour course and are sworn in that day may immediately begin to register their fans, friends, family, classmates, colleagues, and neighbors to vote. AMP Executive Director Jennifer Houlihan stated, “At AMP, we believe that one of the best ways to preserve, protect, and amplify the voice of the Austin music scene is to help make sure everyone who wants to vote, and is eligible to do so, can.” On August 23-24, AMP’s UNITED WE JAM, a two-day fundraiser showcasing Austin artists for Austin fans takes place at venues on Red River and on the Eastside. The event will include multiple voter registration tables staffed with volunteer deputy voter registrars from throughout Travis County. For more information, visit www.austinmusicpeople.org.
Mohammad Al-Bedaiwi, Skylar Bonilla, Adriana Cadena, Roy Casagranda, Cindy Casares, Sirsha Chatterjee, Priscilla Cortez, Ruben Cubillos, Nora de LaRosa, Rose Di Grazia, Chi Dinh, Harmony Eichsteadt, Layla Fry, Anthony Garcia, Mia Garcia, Jessica Garza Cherry, Mark Guerra, Mari Hernandez, Ryan Hutchison, Yadira Izquierdo, Korina Jaimes, Chaille Jolink, Ryan Jordan, Ramey Ko, Heather Lee, Julia Lee, Liz Lopez, Otis Lopez, Ryann Malone, David Marks, JoJo Marion, Valerie Menard, Preya Patel, Monica Peña, Esther Reyes, Paul Saldaña, Marion Sanchez, Ernesto Santillan, Hani Saleh, Azim Siddiqui, Corey Tabor, Blanca Valencia, Kristina Vallejo, Kuetzpalin Vasquez, Joseph P.A. Villescas, Bowen Wilder Web Design // Mike Hernandez Cover // L-R. David J. Neff, Rich Vázquez, Aaron Bramley at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Village. Photo by Mari Hernandez.
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. © 2013 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 – 1400 Corona Drive - Austin, TX 78723
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Intern This Fall at Latinitas Want to make a difference in young girls’ lives? Volunteer with Latinitas in Educational Outreach, Communications, Editorial & Multimedia, Graphic Design and Video Editing. Learn more at 512-861-0592 or austin@latinitasmagazine.org www.bellasartesalliance.org
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 8/1 LOS FLAMES (6:30) FRI 8/2 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 8/3 PAUL ORTA & THE KINGPINS (2:30) and EL TULE (6:30) SUN 8/4 THE RECOUPERATORS (3:00) ----------------------------------------------------------------WED 8/7 THE LARRY MONROE RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 8/8 KIKO VILLMIZAR (6:30) FRI 8/9 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 8/10 AL DRESSEN (2:30) and THE TEXAS TYCOONS (6:30) SUN 8/11 BLUE MIST (3:00) ----------------------------------------------------------------WED 8/14 THE LARRY MONROE RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 8/15 THE LEROI BROTHERS (6:30) FRI 8/16 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 8/17 LOS TIPICOS DE CUBA (2:30) and AMANDA CEVALLOS (6:30) SUN 8/18 MITCH WEBB & THE SWINDLES (3:00) ----------------------------------------------------------------WED 8/21 THE LARRY MONROE RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 8/22 THE BANZAI PROJECT (6:30) FRI 8/23 THE LAUREN ELLIS BAND (6:30) SAT 8/24 LARRY LANGE (2:30) and WINK KEZIAH (6:30) SUN 8/25 CHICKEN STRUT (3:00) ----------------------------------------------------------------WED 8/28 THE LARRY MONROE RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 8/29 BILL CARTER (6:30) FRI 8/30 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 8/31 LOOSE WHEELS (2:30) and THE TONY HARRISON BAND (6:30)
www.GuerosTacoBar.com
IMMIGRATION
Mass Militarization of the Border By Cristina Parker
Skylar Bonilla (R) with Emilio Zamora, Leonard Davila, Gilbert Rivera, Dan Arellano and Jose Uriegas (L-R)
Austin’s Latino Youth Called to Action By Skylar T. Bonilla
I am a student at Austin Community College and President of Chicanos In Action Student Group. We are a group of Mexican-American students dedicated to the promotion of our culture and history and the advancement of our community. We are based at ACC’s Riverside Campus and we engage students there on issues concerning Latinos. My family has been in Austin for many generations and I, personally, am a product of the East Austin Community. As college students, we are all searching for our identity and place in the world. Now that I am coming of age, I want to do something to give back to the community that raised me. I want to help lift up my community, back to the tight-knit family that we used to be. As I take on this role, I have come to find out about things that I thought would never happen in this great city, namely, the plight of Austin’s Mexican-American community.
Cultural Center, the Juarez-Lincoln Building, was demolished on Cesar Chavez with the beautiful mural of Los Elementos (the Elements) and I see what is there now. An International House of Pancakes restaurant. I am angered that our culture and my inheritance were demolished only to put a city-run MACC on a secluded piece of land and surround it with condominiums. And only to have city staff use our facilities for free while the Mexican-American community has to pay to use it. When I see history repeating itself all over again in 2013 with our beloved Mexican American Cultural Center in jeopardy once again, I am called to action. When I see the neighborhood that I have so much pride in given away to developers and the gentry class of Austin, I am called to action. Our community, our history, and our culture are under attack and no one wants to address the issues that MexicanAmericans are facing in Austin. La Raza Roundtable and Chicanos In Action are here to let the council and the community know that we are a people worth listening to and caring for. We don’t want the council to wait until the problems of our community exacerbate themselves to the point of no return.
We are being marginalized by an education system that does not suit our needs and a city council that places the priorities of developers and outside entities above the needs of the people.
So, we are committed to holding the council accountable to the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life report. We don’t want to see these items looked at as mere recommendations. These are more than just recommendations. They are just the beginning of what is needed to bring justice and equality to our community and other marginalized groups in Austin.
The Mexican-American people have been marginalized within our own community and the desires of a new group of people take precedence over our community’s needs. This has been happening for too long and we need protection from being totally pushed out. Before I was born, our original Mexican American
The posture towards our community must change. The City of Austin prides itself as being progressive and at the same time that progress is forcing our Chicano community to move east of town. Sixty percent of students in Austin Independent School District are Latino. Those children must be able to contribute to a vibrant, diverse Austin. Latino success is Austin success.
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Presente.org, the Border Network for Human Rights, Detention Watch Network and border residents and communities in more than ten cities, including Austin, protested against border militarization in actions held across the country as part of the National Day of Action Against Border Militarization on July 17. Protests were organized in response to the “border surge” component proposed in the bi-partisan Senate’s Corker-Hoeven amendment and other legislation being proposed in the House of Representatives. Communities at and beyond the border are part of a growing movement that is rejecting massive, unnecessary increases in “border security” as part of a “tradeoff” for legalizing fewer than eight million undocumented people. “Today, border residents and immigrant communities across the country said no to turning border neighborhoods into war zones,” said Fernando Garcia, Executive Director of the Border Network for Human Rights. “Thousands of people have already signed petitions and today thousands more took to the streets to reject the militarization of the border that has been included in the Senate’s immigration reform deal. What we want people to know is that the Senate’s deal no longer represents the dreams of Americans living on the border or the reality on the ground. Our border cities are some of the safest in the U.S. and the Border Patrol is already the nation’s largest paramilitary force. Unfortunately, the rights and lives of millions of people living along the border have been traded off for political expediency. Today we said enough is enough.” The Senate’s immigration reform package was passed with the last-minute addition of a “border surge” that’s guaranteed to increase racial profiling, abuse, death and other destruction in border communities. The bi-partisan Corker-Hoeven amendment in the Senate proposes increasing by 20,000 the number border patrol agents, adding 700 miles of additional border wall and spending billions of tax dollars on unnecessary surveillance and other wasteful technology at a border that has been certified as safe by the FBI and other sources. Studies demonstrate a clear correlation between increased abuses of civil liberties, border violence and immigrant deaths in border communities and increase in border patrol agents and other “border security” measures. Over the next 10 years, the bi-partisan “border surge” immigration bill that passed in the Senate, S.744, will create one of the most militarized border zones in the world. More than seven million U.S. Citizens, residents and families live in border communities from San Diego, California to Brownsville, Texas. S. 744 calls for massive amounts of spending on the southwest border that will do very little to fix our broken immigration system, and will almost certainly increase the death and destruction that is already occurring in U.S. border communities. Over 5000 migrants have lost their lives since the 1990s, and over 20 people have been killed without consequence by the Border Patrol since 2010.
JUST THE FACTS, this massive militarization includes: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Adding 20,000 Border Patrol agents to the more than 21,000 that are currently deployed At least 700 miles of border fencing as triple walls must be completed Deployment of the National Guard 85 Fixed Watch Towers 488 Fixed Remote Video Surveillance Systems 232 Mobile Surveillance Systems 4,425 Ground Sensors 820 Thermal and Night Vision Goggles 6 VADER radar systems 17 UH-1N Helicopters 8 AS-350 light enforcement helicopters 15 Blackhawk Helicopters 30 marine vessels 18 drones (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles)
All of this comes with an initial price tag of $47,000,000,000 ($47 bill.)
Procedures or Principles: The Egyptian Revolution Chose the Latter // By Roy Casagranda There is a joke going around on Facebook. It says that while the U.S. debates whether or not to cut off $1.3 billion in foreign aid to Egypt, Egyptians fire off $1.3 billion in fireworks. Last December, I described what I called the beginning of the fourth Egyptian Revolution. Seven months later, I get to write about its end. The latest revolution started off much smaller than the January 25, 2011 uprising. Much of the action was conducted by youth resisting the police and cadre of stalwarts camped out in Medan Tahrir. Protesters of ousted President Mohamed Morsi have been battling and pushing back pro-Morsi protesters since July 26; the police and military then move up behind and secure the positions captured by anti-Morsi forces. Morsi, as a member of the Muslim Brotherhood, had once played a minor role in the revolution that toppled the 30 year tyranny of President Hosni Mubarak. In the opening days of the 2011 uprising, the Brotherhood had told its member to refrain from joining the revolution. Prior to the uprising, the Brotherhood was the main opposition to Mubarak, but when the revolution came, the Brotherhood’s initial response was to watch from the sidelines. Only when it was clear that the revolution had a chance of success did they jump in. Credit for the overthrow of Mubarak therefore rested more with the Leftists. As a result the Brotherhood had a serious legitimacy problem. To deal with this legitimacy problem, the Brotherhood, Egypt’s largest party with about 30 percent of the population, announced that it would not run for President. However, after the SCAF postponed elections, the Brotherhood increasingly hinted at a presidential run. Eventually, the Brotherhood fielded a candidate, Khairat al Shater, but he was disqualified by SCAF. Morsi then became the Brotherhood candidate. To solve his legitimacy problem, Morsi made big promises. He promised that if he won the election that he would not attempt to stack the bureaucracy with Brotherhood members and he promised to put Leftists onto his cabinet and the constitutional draft committee. However, once in power Morsi stacked everything he could with Brotherhood members. He threw away the general good will that he had with the Left on power grabs. Then on November 21, 2012 Morsi brokered a deal between Israel and Hamas. The very next day Morsi attempted to seize dictatorial power. It was as if his reward for helping the U.S. was that he could become the Islamist Mubarak. But even before his power grab, the Left had already quit the constitutional draft committee, boycotting the Constitutional Referendum. Many in Egypt had hoped that Article 2 of the Constitution would have been amended to get rid of official state religion. Not only did that not happen, the new draft Constitution increased Egypt’s religious laws.
Cairo march in January, 2013.
Demonstrations, which began in November, against Morsi’s seizure of power, quickly morphed into anti-constitution protests. Morsi was facing a serious crisis and was forced to give up much of the power that he had just seized. The Constitutional Referendum was held on December 15 and 22 and passed, but without a clear mandate.
Horrified that the Egyptian state would collapse, on July 1, the Morsi appointed head of the Egyptian military, General Sisi, issued a 48 hour deadline to reach a compromise. The Obama administration asked the military not to follow through with the ultimatum.
revolution had a death toll of 846 over 18 days, then that there were 300 who were killed during SCAF rule, and finally that the Morsi government killed another 200 Egyptians, it is hard to find much sympathy for the Brotherhood losses as they attempt their counter revolution.
Morsi’s response to the ultimatum was to chastise By December, the Left was calling for protests to the demonstrators and he promised to die remove the president and refused to enter into defending his right to rule. His words fell on deaf ears. Millions demonstrated again and on July 2, further dialogue with him. the Salafist Nour Party (the second largest Islamist As 2013 began, it became increasingly clear that party in Egypt) declared its support for the military’s Morsi was going to have a difficult year. ultimatum and the demonstrations. Desperate, the Egyptian military declared that After the 48 hour period had elapsed, on July 3, the Egyptian state was on the verge of collapse the Egyptian military, for the third time in Egyptian on January 29. Yet, despite rolling protests and a history, sided with the Egyptian population against growing death toll, Morsi held onto power. an unpopular government, removed Morsi from On April 28, 2013 the Left created a new office and suspended the constitution. organization to fight Morsi, Tamarod (rebellion). Its Unhappy about the prospect of ruling Egypt initial aim was to force early elections. Its objective again while its economy collapsed, the military was to collect 15,000,000 signatures (30% of the has wasted no time in creating a civilian interim eligible voters) on a petition by June 30, the one government made up of a broad coalition of year anniversary of Morsi’s inauguration. interests. The interim president, Adli Mansour, was In a move clearly aimed at improving relations with the head of the Constitutional Court, and the new the U.S., Morsi cut ties with Syria on June 15, but U.S. Prime Minister, Hazam al Beblawi, is an economist. support for Morsi was no longer relevant. Tamarod These two appointments are clearly aimed at what called for Morsi to step down and hold new the military believes are the two most pressing elections as some thirty-million demonstrators (45 problems in Egypt. The military will want elections percent of the entire population and 67 percent of as fast as possible and this time they will want the eligible voters) took to the streets. This was the Constitution to come before the elections, so I largest single day protest event in human history. would guess both will be done by early 2014. What event in history has been more democratic In the meantime, the Brotherhood has been in a than this? On June 30, the Egyptian people state of constant counter demonstration, but have repudiated more than just President Morsi, they failed to generate numbers. Nearly 150 people, repudiated fundamentalism itself. mostly Brotherhood supporters, have died since This was impossible for the military to ignore. July 3, but when one considers that the 2011
I suspect that the Brotherhood will eventually leave the streets. While they proved incompetent at ruling Egypt, surely they can see that they just don’t have the numbers. If they stay in the streets too long it will wreck their credibility and will weaken their electoral chances down the road. And I believe that there is a lesson and a question to glean out of this: politicians beware; the lesson for the world is simple: when a government fails to represent the wishes of the public, that public has the power to force its will on that government. I believe that where many in the U.S. get confused about whether what Egypt has done was proper or not, is because removing Morsi from power seems like a breach in democratic procedure. Egyptians have, however, concluded that the leftist principles of the revolution were more important than some arbitrary set of rules. So, the U.S. public needs to ask itself, after supporting three Egyptian tyrants (Sadat, Mubarak, and Morsi), “How often can we afford to be on the wrong side of history?” Roy Casagranda is an Associate Professor of Government at ACC with expertise in U.S. politics, the Middle East, and political philosophy and he is the President and Founder of the Austin School. His current research attempts to discover why people act politically and then applies the model derived to explain recent revolutions. TODO Austin // Aug 2013 // TODOAustin.com 05
7th Annual Global Youth Peace Summit
A View from The Summit By Jacob Joens-Poulton
The 7th Annual Global Youth Peace Summit, August 12-18, will unite American, refugee, immigrant and international youth (ages 13-18) for a week-long youth summit devoted to healing, cultural exchange, community building, and leadership development. “Our intention is to create an experience where youth from around the world, from all walks of life, can begin to understand how similar we all really are - how we desire the same things: peace, connection, and community, and how we all want to feel like our voice is heard and that it matters,” said Ryan Jordan of Amala. One former camp attendee, Jacob Joens-Poulton wrote about his experience at the Summit: The easiest way to describe what Amala Foundation did to promote a safe and friendly environment can be summarized by the mantra we often proclaimed: Love, Respect, Honesty, Community, One Village. This simple but effective call was instrumental in creating an atmosphere where peace could be cultivated. In this way, Amala Foundation did not create new societal values or institute any new ideology; it merely took existing
principles and ways of being and reduced them to fundamental and comprehendible terms that people from around the world could recognize as social norms. This practice was ingenious because it did not take away from other cultures or seek to benefit any in particular, but only iterated the essence of peaceful human interaction. Over the course of the week, I noticed that a beautiful transformation was happening before me. Every day I made new friendships or deepened the ones I had developed. Through this process, I came to have a greater connection to the world. Looking back on the Summit, I now recognize that this has had a massive impact on my perception of the world. I am sure I speak for everyone that participated in the Global Youth Peace Summit when I say that the world is not countries, but people. When I look at a map, I do not see borders and boundary lines, but faces and smiles. This change in perception has motivated me to look beyond the headlines and the stereotypes that I see about other nations, and look for people. When I hear about the Israeli-Palestinian dispute, I am torn because I have friends on both sides. When I read about Iraq, I cannot help but remember the stories
that I have heard of pain, pride, and sacrifice. Congo, Sudan, Syria, Pakistan, and many other countries mean so much more to me now. The issues that people have faced and still continue to face are not limited to an article in a newspaper or a sound bite on television, they are real.
many people have suffered was beyond anything I had ever known. Nevertheless, it was not the suffering and the pain that was quite as incredible as the sense of forgiveness that my friends demonstrated. How could someone who had been a child soldier and shot in the jungles of the Congo feel compassion and forgiveness toward As the Summit progressed and each day I learned their attacker? There is a part of me that wonders more and more about my friends, this became if I could ever be so courageous as to share such all the more apparent. I soon realized that in feelings. America, most people have the privilege of turning the page, or changing the channel, but for many Through the course of a week, over 70 youth from around the world, that is not an option. Hearing 28 different countries were able to come together the stories of incredible suffering and tragedy was peacefully and live as One Village, defying the often hard to bear. It was not just international precepts of racial, religious, and social barriers that youth, but Americans as well. The extent to which have divided the world for so long.
Volunteer for Homeless Children
Radha Madhav Youth Camp
Join HinduCharities4America for a familyfriendly volunteer opportunity to fill backpacks with school supplies for area homeless children on Sunday, August 18, 1-4 p.m., at Dell Jewish Community Campus (7300 Hart Lane).
By Bina Perino
From all across the country, Hindu children came together at the annual youth camp at Radha Madhav Dham in Austin, June 29-July 7, to learn about the wonders of Indian culture and religion in a spiritually exciting and nurturing environment.
After May’s successful fundraising effort, “Bollywood Meets Borscht Belt,” enough money was raised for Manor and Austin youth for the 2013-2014 school year. Last year, over 100 volunteers showed up for the fun. For info call 512-994-4638.
Pratham Austin Gala 2013 Pratham USA, a non-profit organization helping every child read in India, holds its annual fundraising gala on Saturday, September 7. “Pratham Austin Gala 2013” starts at 6:30 p.m. at Sheraton Austin Hotel at the Capitol. The event will feature a “Dancing with the Bollywood Stars” theme and includes prominent Austinites as dancers including Austin City councilman Mike Martinez, Heather McKissick, Dr. Harish Gagneja, Lesley Varghese, Gita Oberoi Singh, Dr. Satish Chundru, Sonia Kotecha and Sheila Sing. Keynote speaker for the event is author Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni. 06 TODO Austin // Aug 2013 // TODOAustin.com
of where we kids have come from, amidst all the fun and the learning opportunity, the camps also give us all a chance to make lifelong friendships.
Teaching Companies featured include Mohini Dance, Bollywood Shake and Monsoon Dance Company joined by emcee Sarika Batra, from Sony Television’s “Andaaz” and DJ Vish. For more info on the event, produced by Life Styled Events, call 713-774-9599.
The best part of the camp was that, while guided by adults, it was run by the youth counselors and teachers, who being in their early twenties, are a part of the same millennial generation as the campers, and have gone thru similar perils and challenges of growing up themselves so they can better relate to youth issues and interests. This summer, youth got hands-on experiences in a wide range of unique and different topics – all the way from electives like Prasad cooking, dancing, leela performance, drums and harmonium to real-life projects like tobotics, promotions, nature conservation, etc.– there was so much to explore and find out what kids are passionate about. Among all the excitement and chaos, youth still learned to maintain a devotional state of mind as we gained knowledge of true Hindu beliefs and morals. The diversity of youth came together to discover new ideas and participate in activities that will give us lifelong skills and a deeper understanding of devotion to Radha Krishn. Regardless of age and background
Along with the display of our newfound passions we got to display and show off our newfound creative innovations, after working on them for a whole week to fully develop them. The most exciting part of it all was that because our projects were real life active temple projectslike beautification of ashram’s environment, developing a sports complex, expanding a kids playground, and promoting upcoming events to the youth - we may even get to see many of the youth ideas being implemented in the future at Radha Madhav Dham.
and investment of time, energy, and resources are so similar. I’m drawn to stepping out and putting it all on the line. Every day may be your last, so you want to know that you’ve done your best with every day you have.
generation, people who spoke up caused “trouble,” so it’s hard for them to understand why they need to vote and make their voice heard. A new generation of Asian Americans is rising up as more and more role models emerge, it is very exciting.
AA: What does the American Dream mean to you? JCS: To me, it means taking what my parents gave me and going to new heights. My parents risked it all for my brother and I. It wasn’t enough for me to then lead a comfortable life and forget where I came from. It was my turn to help others who were climbing that ladder, and to be an example for my children. Hopefully they can achieve even more than I can in my lifetime.
AA: Asian Americans are becoming a powerful force in Austin economically, culturally, politically and otherwise. How do you see Asian Americans fitting into the larger Austin culture and community? JCS: Yes, it’s about time. I see it only becoming stronger and stronger.
AA: Is there anything particular about Austin that inspires you? JCS: Everything about Austin inspires me! I love the energy, the innovation, the progressiveness. I love that people love the outdoors and athletics. Running Lady Bird Lake is one of my favorite things to do, followed by a swim at Barton Springs. The food is incredible. It has managed to grow, yet keep its own identity.
By Yvonne Lim Wilson
Jade Chang Sheppard
Jade Chang Sheppard came to America as a twoyear-old girl whose Taiwanese parents sought a better life for their family and a shot at the American Dream. Her parents didn’t have much, but they pursued higher education, worked their way into the middle class, bought a home and saved enough to send their children to college without any debt. As a student at The University of Texas, Jade fell in love with Austin and never left. She worked at Dell before opening her own business, Gideon Contracting. Starting with nothing but loans and a strong work ethic, Jade grew Gideon into a multimillion-dollar company responsible for construction, renovation and repair of federal government facilities.
AA: Are there generational issues, or cultural issues, or both, between young and old Asian American Austinites? JCS: There are a lot of cultural and generational differences, but the biggest one that I believe needs to, and will change, is the lack of involvement in community advocacy and politics. In my parent’s
AA: What do you consider the most important cultural value for you and for those close to you? JCS: Family is number one. We would not be here in America if it weren’t for my parents wanting a better future for their family. Now with my own children and a loving husband, these familial units are everything to me. If everything is good at home, then life is great. My parents, brother and sister in law, aunt and cousin all live on the same street as me, and we all form a traditional Asian familial ecosystem, it’s wonderful. ________________________________________________ Asian Austin at www.AsianAustin.com is an online news source featuring news about Asian American people, organizations and events in Austin. Visit the Asian Austin website and “Like” us on Facebook for calendar and event details! Contact publisher Yvonne Lim Wilson at yvonne@ asianaustin.com.
service work and ensure that the next generation of Texans is able to achieve the American Dream, just as she did.
Asian Austin: Did you know what you wanted to do with your life or did it just happen? Jade Chang Sheppard: I believe in setting fiveyear goals. No, I didn’t know growing up that I would love politics. I’ve always loved community service, but I thought that I would be a doctor or social worker. Then it turned out I excelled in the business field and loved it, so I tried to tie my business back to helping the community. In the end, politics, community service, and building a successful company where people love to work and your product is meaningful, all ties together to Jade and her husband John have two sons and a purposeful life for me. live in Northwest Austin. Jade has given back to her community as a board member, donor, AA: What was your attraction to your vocation? and supporter of numerous civic and charitable What drew you to do the work you do? organizations, including Planned Parenthood, JCS: Business is like a game of strategy, and it’s Austin Children’s Shelter, Young Presidents’ fun, exciting, and crazy. The lows are so low and Organization, Texas Lyceum, Austin Chamber of the highs are amazing, but in between, it’s figuring Commerce and the Asian American Resource out how to make it, and envisioning what “make Center. Jade states that she is now running for it” means is half the battle. Politics is the same in State Representative to continue her public almost every way. The risk, calculations, strategy,
Sunday, September 29, 2013 Service projects with local nonprofits for all ages Registration open in late August at www.bethechangeaustin.org TODO Austin // Aug 2013 // TODOAustin.com 07
Celebrating Diversity
Ballet Austin Free Day of Dance Butler Dance Education Center
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From Montopolis Bridge to 360 Bridge, Everything Austin
DiverseArt Culture Works presents, “Fresh Black Paint (2013): Memories of Cuba,” an exhibit by Luis Abreux. The creatively playful, yet deeply thought-provoking work shows August 3-September 5 at New East Art Gallery (1601 East 5th Street; Suite 106). Abreux’s vibrant use of colors and candid style transfixes the imagination on the mental universe of his homeland. diversearts.org The Bad Boy Southern Soul Concert featuring T.K. Soul and the Bad Boys Band is Saturday, August 10, at the Doris Miller Auditorium in Rosewood Park. Also appearing on the bill is Brown Sugar and The Brothers Band. Ticket ($20; $25 door) are on sale at Willie’s BarB-Que, Mr. Catfish and WB Chicken and Waffles. Doors open at 7:30 and the show starts at 8 p.m. For info call 512-929-5515. “Zeus in Therapy” is an original theatrical experience playing the Long Center’s Rollins Studio Theatre from August 16-25. Directed by Gary Jaffe and adapted from Douglass Stott Parker’s cycle of 52 poems, Zeus is imagined on the therapist’s couch, with a diverse ensemble of eleven performers embodying 45 different characters, including several versions of the King of the Gods. thelongcenter.org
Make plans to attend “Come Dance! 2013,” Ballet Austin’s annual free day of dance on Sunday, August 25. Dance all afternoon, enjoy refreshments, shop for discounts off regular classes and workshops and register prizes and giveaways.
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents “Dragons,” a once in a millennium event that honors The Year of the Dragon, at the Frank Erwin Center, August 21-25. Circus performers from the farthest reaches of the earth are showcased in a never-beforeseen blend of athleticism, renowned spiritual and real life legends that can be found only at The Greatest Show on Earth! uterwincenter.com
There’s no need to sign up ahead of time. Just park free at the State Garage and cross the street to Ballet Austin’s Butler Dance Education Center, 501 W. 3rd St. (corner of 3rd & San Antonio). Each class is 40 minutes long with a 20 minute transition time between classes. Come take one class or dance all day for free.
What will you see at BatFest on Saturday, August 24? 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerging from under the bridge at dusk, two stages with live music, more than 75 arts and crafts vendors, delicious food and drinks, fun children’s activities, a bat costume contest and other bat activities. $7 at gate on the Ann Richards Congress Ave. Bridge. 4 p.m.-midnight, all ages welcome. roadwayevents.com
Regular Butler Community School classes include both dance and dance fitness. Dance classes offered at the camp may include: Ballet, Brazilian, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Hula, Jazz, Jazz Funk, Jazz Turns & Jumps, Modern, Tap, Broadway Dance, Videodance, West African Dance and more. Dance Fitness classes to look for may include Cardio Blast, Turbo Kick and Zumba.
Cine de Oro screens Tuesday, August 27, 9:30 a.m. at the ESB Mexican American Cultural Center. “Pepe El Toro” (Pepe, the Bull) is a 1951 film about professional boxing and how it affects the simple lives of humble people. Pepe El Toro is played by Pedro Infante, who demonstrates how a boxer’s life is hard and tragic. Directed by Ismael Rodriguez. Spanish; English subtitles. maccaustin.org
Kid-friendly dance classes for ages 5-12 may include Kids Hip Hop, Kids Modern, Zumba for Kids, Kids Dance Around the World, and more. Call 512-501-8704 for more information. 08 TODO Austin // Aug 2013 // TODOAustin.com
The age old tradition in India has been to celebrate Shree Krishna Janmashtmi, Shree Krishna’s birthday, on the 8th night after the August full moon. The festival is marked all over India, and in Austin, too, at Radha Madhav Dham on Saturday, August 31, 5 p.m.midnight. Schedule includes a 5 p.m. dinner, an outdoor youth program, chanting, a lecture, dances and arti. radhamadhavdham.org
Teatro Vivo “Confessions of a Mexpatriate”
SALVAGE VANGUARD THEATER
A new Teatro Vivo production from playwright Raul Garza and directed by Ken Webster, “Confessions of a Mexpatriate” portrays the struggle of straddling two homelands. Join the adventure of one heavilyAmerican-media-saturated man, embarking on a passage across Mexico, in which he comes to embrace the beauty of the culture and what Mexico means to Mexican-Americans.“We want the audience to view the struggles, discoveries and beauty that come with being Mexican-American in both the U.S. and Mexico,” says JoAnn Reyes, Executive Director of Teatro Vivo. The show features award-winning theater artists, actor Mical Trejo, who portrays Mexpatriate, and director Webster. August 8-24. $15 students/seniors; GA $20. teatrovivo.org ======================================
Austin Symphony Hartman Foundation Concerts in the Park
long center
In its 11th summer season, free ensemble concerts take place in the Hartman Concert Park in front of the Long Center City Terrace on Sunday evenings, 7:30 p.m., through August 25. Each Sunday a different ensemble of the Austin Symphony is featured. The August schedule is August 4 – Strings; August 11 – Brass; August 18 – Woodwinds; August 25 – Big Band. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner and blanket and make it a group outing. thelongcenter.org
2013 Lights. Camera. Help. Film Festival Alamo Drafthouse Village 2700 West Anderson Lane Thursday, August 15 // 6:30 – 9:30 PM Feature: “A Film about Kids & Music: Sant Andreu Jazz Band” This documentary is a journey led by the orchestra director, which immerses us in a teaching method as unique as the results it unveils. Director Ramon Tort will speak about the film. Short Films: Amplify Austin The Women of Nyamonge Present: Netball This is Renzi Kashi REAL Project: Let’s Get Real
Hitting High Notes at Fifth Annual Festival for Cause Driven Films By Erica Stall Wiggins
A good film can do so much. It can inspire, challenge, persuade, expose injustice and ultimately bring about change. For nonprofit organizations around the world, having an effective film about what they do and why they do it can make or break their ability to do their work. Community awareness, support and funding can all be bolstered tremendously by this one powerful tool. Lights. Camera. Help. is an Austin-based nonprofit organization that works with other nonprofit groups to effect positive change through video and film. Throughout the year, the organization collaborates with like groups to help tell their stories, offering full day workshops and online classes in filmmaking and working with production companies. Lights. Camera. Help. also offer a matchmaking service, pairing nonprofits with filmmakers. To date, they’ve worked with over 350 different organizations. The Lights. Camera. Help. Annual Film Festival, now in its fifth year, spans three nights, August 15-17, at the much loved Alamo Drafthouse Village and showcases hand selected, cause driven micro-documentaries, shorts and feature films culled from hundreds of entries. The films are judged by a panel of experts, and the winning films are awarded cash prizes to benefit the causes represented. “When I think back to year one, we’ve grown tremendously,” co-founder and Executive Director Aaron Bramley said, regarding the festival’s growth. “We’re out of community rooms and classrooms and in one of Austin’s premier theaters. We’re excited that we can provide an
exemplary cinematic experience for our ticketholders as well as give these films the weight they deserve.” The festival embodies the entrepreneurial, multicultural, creative and advocacy centered spirit of Austin. From the far reaches of the globe come stories of people creating real change for good. In “This is Renzi,” an art and education center for at risk youth improves grades and fuels creativity. “Renzi to me is a lighthouse,” says one of the program’s participants. Urban food deserts – low income areas where fresh food is nearly impossible to find – are tackled by planting programs in “Let’s Get Real.” A young woman’s life in Haiti is transformed through the lens of a camera in “Learning Photography in Haiti.” The films inspire and celebrate the human spirit by highlighting heroes among us. The three feature length films offered this year have two things in common: they are all multiple award winners and all celebrate the power of music to unite and inspire. Audiences will not only experience the visual and auditory riches of the stories on screen, but will be treated to conversations with the directors behind each film. The Thursday, night feature, “A Film about Kids & Music: Sant Andreu Jazz Band,” has won multiple International awards, and director Ramon Tort will be traveling from Spain to speak with attendees. Friday’s feature length film, “When I Rise,” chronicles the story of a gifted University of Texas music student who finds herself amidst racial controversy. The film’s Director, Mat Hames, will be in attendance. The closing night feature, “Brasslands,” opened the 2013 Los Angeles Film Festival and tells the story
of a New York brass band at the largest trumpet festival in the world in Guča, Serbia. After the screening, there will be a panel discussion with representatives from Meerkat Media Collective, the directors of Brasslands. “We love the films we’ve shown year after year, but the quality of the films this year is head and shoulders above previous years,” said Bramley of the selections. The closing party and awards event promises to be exciting and rewarding. “The awards party will be a chance to celebrate those who do good in our community, network with other filmmakers and nonprofit professionals and award prizes to the nonprofits associated with the winning films of the festival,” said Bramley. So, after the curtain closes on this year’s festival, what’s next for Lights. Camera. Help.? Founder and Vice President of the Board of Directors, David J. Neff, stated, “The big goals for Lights. Camera. Help. in the next few years are to really expand our programming at the Film Festival, all the while growing the number of film classes we teach in our community and online.” Those film classes are growing under the leadership of board member and filmmaker Cliff Wildman. Meanwhile, the group is pushing into editing classes, storytelling and more. Neff takes great pride in watching the education component grow into a fully mature model helping nonprofits and filmmakers all over the country. Likewise, after five years, the film festival is hitting the high notes.
Friday, August 16 // 6:30 – 9:30 PM Feature: “When I Rise” A documentary about Barbara Smith Conrad, a gifted University of Texas music student who finds herself at the epicenter of racial controversy, struggling against the odds and ultimately ascending to the heights of international opera. Friday’s screening will also feature a conversation with the film’s director, Mat Hames. Short Films: Alex Presents: Commando Coastal Erosion Restoration: The Nature Conservancy A Fighting Chance Learning Photography in Haiti Advocacy in Albany: No Condoms as Evidence
Saturday, August 17 // 3:30 – 6:30 PM Feature: “Brasslands” A film about an eccentric New York brass band, a virtuosic group of struggling Roma Gypsies, and reigning Serbian champions converging with half a million fans and transcending political and ethnic borders at the world’s largest trumpet festival in Guča, Serbia. In addition to the films, there will be a panel discussion with representatives from Meerkat Media Collective, the directors of Brasslands. Shorts: Meet Abaynesh Community Report: Health – Greater Twin Cities United Way The Good, the Bad & the Sleepy Doing Unto Others – Sacred Heart Community Clinic African Men. Hollywood Stereotypes. Austin Children’s Shelter: Transforming Lives Schedule subject to change. For tickets, complete schedule and more, visit www.lightscamerahelp.org Feature summaries courtesy of Lights.Camera.Help. TODO Austin // Aug 2013 // TODOAustin.com 09
The Howlin’ Lobo By Lobo Corona
Austin Tejano Music at a Glance Austin’s Tejano music scene seems to have stepped out of the shadows and is starting to shine again, jumping over the tracks and spreading across the IH-35 corridor. Last month, the A.B. Cantu Pan American Recreation Center hosted a series of shows every Tuesday, KLRU Austin’s “Vamos al Baile,” created by Leonard Davila and KLRU, was taped at the old ACL studio for airing this fall, William Wild Bill Perkins and Calle Seis seemed to play all the time, everywhere, and the Austin Tejano Music Coalition’s “Tejano Idol” Canta contest picked up steam across the state as it moved closer to the finals in October. Could it be that a Tejano Music Festival is underway some time soon? It seems that Tejano music followers and performers are finding a connection and new doors are opening to expand its territory. The genre has been around for a while, of course, as Lydia Mendoza set an important mark dating all the way back to 1920. Today, among the many, Ruben Ramos, Joel Guzman and Sarah Fox, and Little Joe Hernandez have proudly kept la onda going. Hispanic, Latino, Latin, MexicanAmerican or Mexicano - Tejano Music is part of our Heritage, Escuchalo!
“Fall into Music” Instrument Drive
Premios Texas
United Sounds of Austin
Donate a music instrument for a good cause through “Fall into Music,” a music instrument drive running September 4-8. Clean out your attic, garage or closet and give the gift of music. All across Austin, underserved music students are facing huge challenges gaining access to quality musical instruments. Instrument donations accepted include string instruments, wind and brass instruments, electric instruments and percussion instruments. Guitars, drumsticks, extra strings and accessories are also welcome. Organizations benefiting from the drive are: Anthropos Arts, Austin Chamber Music Center, Austin Soundwaves, Austin Classical Guitar Society, Girls Rock Austin, Austin Youth Orchestra, University of Texas Elementary School Strings, Kids in a New Groove and Round Rock Symphony.
Produced by Univision 62 Austin, “Premios Texas” is an annual award ceremony honors Latino artists for their talent in categories such as pop, rock, urban, Tejano, regional music and more. Texas’ own Chingo Bling and A.J. Castillo are among the nominees this year. Mexican pop music diva, Gloria Trevi, stars at “Premios Texas” August 15 at ACL Live. For tickets and info visit www.PremiosTexas.com. Univision will telecast the event on August 24 at 10 p.m.
Son de Rey will debut their first music video, “Oye Mi Amor” on Friday, August 16, with a release party at Spider House Ballroom. The evening includes performances by La Frenetika, La Vida Buena, and Son de Rey. Doors open at 9 p.m. The music video viewing will be held in the patio area at 9:45 p.m. For more info visit sonderey.com
Drop off Locations include: Strait Music South (2428 West Ben White), Strait Music - North (13945 Hwy. 183 North), and KMFA studios (3001 North Lamar). For more info visit hispanicallianceaustin.org Women in Latin Music Showcase
Austin Audio Academy is having their Grand Opening Event in Soundcheck’s Grounds on August 17 from 1-5 p.m. with live music from Dale Watson and the Lone Stars, Vallejo, Kirk Thurmond. MC Bob Fonseca will host the event. 1901 E. 51st Street, Building 4 - Studio B.
Rock en Español at ACL LIVE
Austin Music People’s “United We Jam,” a twoday live music event in several venues on the East Side and River Street music districts, including The Scoot Inn and Holy Mountain, is a fundraiser event featuring Austin-based artists. Events like the August 23-24 show, from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m., raise funds for AMP, whose work represents all facets of Austin’s music industry.
Cafe Tacvba, one of the most popular and influential rock en español bands in history, sets some kind of record as being the first Latin alternative band of its stature to perform in Austin numerous times during the same year. Cafe Tacvba, fresh and innovative wizards of music since 1989, held their first 2013 Austin performance at NPR Stubb’s showcase during SXSW, bookended by Nick Cave and Yeah Yeah Yeahs; the second show, also during SXSW, was at Auditorium Shores with Bajo Fondo and Molotov; their third appearance will be at ACL Live September 7. For tickets and info visit acllive.com Cafe Tacvba
“Rock 4 All # deux” is a rock culture fusion event showcasing bands that sing in different languages. Under one roof, creating fan connection through music will be performances by Blank Slate, Dragon Rojo, and Mala Suerte on August 24 at Gypsy Lounge (1504 Eastside 6th Street). For more info visit musicwayaustin.com
ALMA’s Miranda Gil, Liz Lopez, Ross Gomez, Kiana Mode and Leticia Rodriguez
Austin Latino Music Association’s 4th annual celebration of local Latina musicians saw a large turnout on August 2 at the Moose Lodge #1735 for a showcase of established and emerging artists. The stellar lineup included new standout Lauren Silva, Leticia Rodriguez, who filled the dance floor, talented pop singer Miranda Gil, young rocker Luz V. Zamora, and Tejano favorites Sarah Puente Lara and Kiana Mode. “This celebration is simply to promote, showcase and demonstrate our appreciation of the local women artists in the music industry,” said Liz López, chair/founder of the event, who noted music fans of several nationalities in the house. 10 TODO Austin // Aug 2013 // TODOAustin.com
Son de Rey
Gloria Trevi
Making Tracks People en Español Festival Taking place in San Antonio this Labor Day weekend, “Festival People en Español” is a a multi-faceted celebration of the best in Hispanic entertainment and culture, produced this year by the legendary producer, Emilio Estefan. The Festival line-up includes Mexican singer and international superstar Alejandro Fernandez; award winning duo, Wisin y Yandel; Demi Lovato; Texas native Mexican-American Tejano musician Bobby Pulido; Frankie J. and Gloria Estefan. Saturday, August 31 and Sunday, September 1, at the Alamodome (100 Montana Street, San Antonio).
After the release of their new album, “El Valiente,” a succesful tour and sharing the stage with Molotov in San Antonio, Piñata Protest get back to Austin for a show with Reverend Horton Heat on August 10 at Antone’s (2015 E Riverside Drive). Presented by Transmission Events and Austin City Limits Live, Rancid will stomp the grounds of ACL Live (310 Willie Nelson Blvd) on September 2. The Cult will be promoting the release of “ElectricPeace” by performing the entire “Electric” album on their current U.S. tour. W.H. Billy Duffy mentioned a new album already on the works for a 2014 release. September 3 at ACL Live.
In the Business of Bollywood:
‘Om Shanti - Once Upon a Time in Bollywood’ Dances on to the Long Center Stage By Ryann Malone Prakash Mohandas is no stranger to an epic story. The founder and CEO of Agni Entertainment’s own journey could have the makings of a good fairy tale - a voyage from a far off land, trials and tribulations, and self-discovery. And, of course, you can’t forget the happy ending, which for one of his larger aspirations will be realized this summer when he brings the first-ever regionally produced, large scale Bollywood musical to the stage at the Long Center. “Om Shanti- Once Upon a Time in Bollywood,” a storybook saga told with the theatrical flair and melodrama that endears fans to popular Bollywood films, will premiere on stage in the Dell Hall, August 23-25. The musical was written, produced by and stars Mohandas, and will be Agni Entertainment’s largest undertaking to date. The entertainment production company has been creating theater and dance projects and independent films with a South Asian focus since 2007. With grand sets, 75 dancers, 20 actors, a 20-member orchestra, a large choir and crew, this 140-plus member show aims to delight audiences with an authentic Indian cultural experience, transporting them across the globe through live music, song, dance, vibrant costumes and imaginative sets. The story takes audiences on a ride as they follow Om, a court dancer madly in love with Shanti, the princess of a land called - but with a true taste of Indian culture through Bollywood, and the fateful day that changes authentic South Asian song and dance. everything in their universe. “The primary goal of this musical is to put Asian “This performance will be unlike anything Texas culture and arts on the Austin and national map has ever seen, a production infused with all the and make it more of a mainstay,” said Mohandas. wonders of Bollywood – lights, costumes, dance, He believes that events within this genre have not music, and tongue-in-cheek drama playfully been large or consistent enough to support a unfolding on stage.” Mohandas said of the professional artist base. “Om Shanti- Once Upon production. “Good and evil, love and loss, after-life a Time in Bollywood” aims to create a larger fan and revenge, all rolled into one roller-coaster ride base outside of the South Asian community, and gain support from people who are not yet familiar of a story.” with Bollywood productions. Mohandas aspires Helping to bring the show to life with proper to create a structure and framework for future flair and authenticity are Krishna Sankar, the national touring productions in hopes of breaking production’s co-director, costume designer the “sub-group” or “niche” stereotype these kinds Aparna Nayani, choreographer Divya Dinakar, and of productions have adopted over time. music supervisors Srikanth Balaji and Katja Lindner. Mohandas has also recruited Austin Critic’s Table With excitement building around the show Award winners Ia Ensterä and Jason Amato to from pre-show events like the Bollywood Ball serve as the show’s set designer and lighting and Bollywood Day, community outreach and partnerships, and the myriad rehearsals going on designer, respectively. any given day, it’s difficult to imagine Mohandas Famed for their enchanting song-and-dance was only recently behind the desks at some very numbers, Bollywood films - which are generally recognizable Austin-based companies, working musicals - have captivated viewers with their full time as an engineer. Though Mohandas has entertaining mixtures of action, comedy and always had a passion for the arts, it wasn’t until a romance for 100 years. “Om Shanti- Once Upon few years ago he realized he could turn his love of a Time in Bollywood” will at once deliver those music, dance, and more into a full-fledged career. recognizable characteristics to devoted fans of the genre, and entertain those who are less familiar Mohandas came to America after receiving his with the style. Audiences can expect a fun and undergraduate education in India, landing in Austin easy to follow story line - the dialogue is in English to continue his studies and obtain his Masters
Degree in electrical engineering at the University of Texas. Mohandas grew up loving the arts - dance, music, theater - you name it, and he was involved in it one way or another. But it was only once he arrived in Austin that he realized that it was possible for his passion for the arts to be more than mere hobbies. During his time at U.T., Mohandas was involved with numerous on-campus activities, theatre groups and dance companies, and seemingly - like a lot of other artists who flock to Austin, - he joined a band. “But where I come from, those endeavors are pastimes, not something you are encouraged to turn into a career,” he said. In 2007, while employed full time, Mohandas made the decision to start Agni Dance, teaching a handful of students Bollywood-style dance. As the number of students continued to grow into the hundreds, Agni Dance morphed into Agni Entertainment and begin to create its own touring theater productions and independent films. “It wasn’t until I really started juggling two full-time jobs that I realized I was happier,” said Mohandas of that busy time. It was in March of this year that Mohandas was able to take the leap from free time to full time, finally turning his longing for a career in the arts into a reality. And that’s precisely when the idea to create “Om Shanti- Once Upon a Time in Bollywood” was born.
Mohandas’ passion for what he does can easily be seen both onstage and off. While in rehearsals for “Om Shanti- Once Upon a Time in Bollywood,” Mohandas inspires everyone around him. “My company’s name, Agni, means ‘fire’ in Sanskrit,” he explains. “It’s the fire I feel everyday and try to share with those around me. I think it’s starting to rub off.” In an art-oriented city like Austin, one of the productions larger goals is to better the environment for professionals and their audience, within this genre of performing arts. Mohandas hopes to bring awareness and knowledge of South Asian culture through live entertainment to all Austinites and to serve as a framework for how other striving artists can bring their work to life. “I want to share South Asian culture with the world,” he said. “There’s a lot out there that a lot of people don’t know about because they can’t easily access it or don’t know where to look. With ‘Om ShantiOnce Upon a Time in Bollywood,’ we’re getting one step closer and expanding our audience.” “Om Shanti- Once Upon a Time in Bollywood” runs August 23-25 at the Long Center. For ticket information to the all ages show, go to thelongcenter.org
TODO Austin // Aug 2013 // TODOAustin.com 11
Tiny Taiga Condensation By Blake Shanley
The constant programming, the pitting against each other, the fear, the manipulation, the belief that we can trust the select few more than we can trust the many - it is the only true war being waged. And it is blatantly, embarrassingly, calculatedly being waged against US all, from all angles, at all times. Injustice against ONE of us is injustice against ALL of US. Rights held from ONE of us is a disgrace, an offense and a challenge to the truth, the rights and the freedom of ALL of us. One person’s neck being stepped on chokes and suffocates us all. One person’s pain and suffering bruises the hearts of all of us. United we stand, divided we fall. They (the very, very, very select few) want us (ALL of the rest of us) divided. We inherently all know better and we know who WE are, but we are still being programmed to believe we are all different. WE AREN’T. Not a damn one of us. Across the globe. THAT’S what WE’RE really not getting yet.
Tho Oasis | photo by Jared Tennant
Good Summer Times in Austin By Rose Di Grazia
As a child, I was always ready to have a good time since we were poor and a good time meant going to the beach. Hence, as a result I ended up writing about travel and entertainment for a living. So for some good times in Austin read on! Places to Dine VERONA RISTORANTE ITALIANO // When in Rome look for good pizza places to eat. But when in Austin, look for good Italian at Verona. This romantic, cozy, restaurant has a manager that speaks beautiful Italian and makes outof-this world, thin crust brick oven pizza! The food is as wonderful as the fresco paintings. This place offers a delicious happy hour menu with reasonable prices for fruit and cheese, chicken wings, stuffed pasta, etc. Tuesday night is open mike night, too. If you’re lucky, one of the managers, I call Louis Armstrong, may sit at the piano and melt your heart with one of his romantic tunes. He always melts mine, that’s for sure. www.veronaustin.com THE FRISCO // This place is an old staple in Austin. If you like good home cooking such as breakfast served all day, fish and baked potatoes, burgers and fries, and freshly made coconut cream pie this is your diner! If you want a cold one in a can for just $2.00 and like dessert and beer late in the evening try their early and later happy hour. During the later 12 TODO Austin // Aug 2013 // TODOAustin.com
happy hour get yummy desserts for only half off. Come sit a spell in a diner that looks like it is right out of the 1970’s and 80’s. Even one of the waitresses sports big hair. The place is really a step back in time. www.thefriscoaustin.com GENUINE JOE COFFEEHOUSE // Morning java is at Genuine Joe’s for me. The owner always has a nice smile at the counter and makes a bad morning a good morning. Stop in for various coffee drinks and pastries of all kinds. Customers can rest on one of the leather couches or sit out on the porch. Rooms are available for meetings or just make this place your office away from the office. GJ offers music on the porch on some nights. So come out and meet your neighbors and get your caffeine fix. www.genuinejoecoffee.com
the music starts it is standing room only. www. abuelos.com SHERLOCK’S BAKER ST. PUB & GRILL // This bar/restaurant is North Austin’s answer to not having to drive south to hear music and get drinks. Sit out on the covered patio and meet people, just like you, that are tired of driving downtown and fighting the traffic. On certain evenings, enjoy food, drinks, and dancing inside. It’s a nice change of pace from the old Sixth Street scene. www.sherlockspubco.com Places to Play
Deep Eddy is a wonderful place to play in the cool pool and watch movies. Bring the whole family and lay out under the trees on the hill. Deep Eddy offers movies during the summer Places to Dance months for your viewing pleasure. Swim or sit on the hill and get a golden tan. Deep Eddy is THE OASIS // If you like to Salsa and dance located on Lake Austin. www.deepeddy.org your butt off, head to the Oasis. Bands like the Brew and Memphis Train will make you drip Volente Beach // If you can’t head to sweat. Enjoy delicious drinks and appetizers Padre this summer head to Volente Beach while waiting for the band to start and watch before school starts. Have fun riding the slides the breathtaking sunset. The food and the view and playing with the kids in the kid pool. Lay is great, but the music and the dancing is hard out in the sun or grab a burger at the burger to get at other places like this. You will want to stand outside. Dine in the restaurant and enjoy dance ’til you drop. Once you go, you will feel gourmet dinners. Volente is a fun place for the like there’s no way in heck you’re getting old. whole family. www.shoreclubtx.com www.oasis-austin.com Austin Duck Adventures // For a splashing ABUELO’S // Another place to get your groove good time, take a duck ride tour bus through on is at Abuelo’s, located across the street from downtown Austin and learn about the history Barton Creek Mall. Once again, come out and of our town. Blow your plastic duck whistle hear the sounds of the Brew and salsa the night at people on the streets. Then take a dive away on the patio. Indulge in their wonderful into Lake Austin near Mozart’s cafe. Feel the nachos and wash it down with a Negra Modelo. water splash up on you as it dives in head You won’t find any shy people here, that’s for first. Remember you’re never too old to have sure. Come early to get a table because once fun. www.austinducks.com
Religion, politics, gender, nationality, race, sexual preference, economic status, etc. – they are fallible labels that divide and take away the power of us as a PEOPLE. They categorize, measure, value and define PEOPLE. But people is what we are. Period. The labels are all bullshit and are used by people to manipulate, to control, to compartmentalize, to lead and to follow each other. We are all constantly being force-fed information, forcefed chemicals, force-fed fear and hatred, force-fed toxins, force-fed lies. We’re all drinking the same poisoned water, listening to the same poisoned drivel, watching the same poisoned stories unfold, watching the few poisoning the many. Yes, it’s time we ALL wake up. And stay awake. Stop eating crappy, fake food, stop reading and watching fake news, stop ignoring/abusing/neglecting your neighbor/your child/your partner/your friend in favor of some celebrity/some television show/some sports game, stop hurting each other, stop acting as though you’re more or less than anyone else, stop believing whatever is easiest to believe, stop believing what you were told when you were eight. That we still believe ANY of us are more or less, or different or better, or right or wrong, is THE war being waged against us all in every possible sense, avenue and outlet. Continuing to convince us that we are actually different from each other, still have reasons to fight against each other, feel superior or inferior, entitled or victimized. It’s a way to control the masses. But WE are the masses. And we are all doing our best, from where we come from and what we know, to be good and happy people. We’re all afraid, we’re all alone and we’re all constantly struggling inside. We’re all hoping to love and be loved, have purpose and have meaning, and make some sense of this tiny blip of “time” we exist on this planet.
That’s what THEY don’t want us to remember but that’s what WE need to never forget. OPEN YOUR EYES, YOUR HEART, YOUR EARS, YOUR MIND. We’re in this whole damn thing together and we need to do a much better job than we’ve been doing. Blake Shanley is a superfood pusher, holistic consultant at Tiny Taiga, a one stop corner shoppe of heal goods and soul treats at 1200 E. 11th St. #106.
cari d a d
CASA
(Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Travis County VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT Jacqueline Hill was born in Rochester, N.Y., and lived in several cities before moving to Austin in 2001 to be close to her parents. She’s one of five children and comes from a very close family. Jacqueline works as the Human Resources Manager for Goodwill Industries, and has an MBA from Northwestern and an MFA from Columbia College Chicago. She spends her free time traveling, learning languages, going to concerts, writing and is currently working on her first novel. Jacqueline became a CASA volunteer over a year ago and says that as someone who enjoys learning, she “was really impressed with the amount of education CASA provides volunteers in training. It’s not a superficial thing, it’s very in depth.” She’s been
most surprised by “the things many of us take for granted that don’t come easily to everyone, like transportation and education. I’ve seen a mom who was trying to apply for a job but didn’t have access to a cell phone or a computer to do any of that.” She feels that one of the greatest impacts she has had advocating for children has been “bringing in the things that may be missing from their lives. Some of the children have no male roles models, so I’m helping facilitate that by taking them to football camp and encouraging other interests where strong male role models are present.”
Volunteer with CASA CASA of Travis County and Young Hispanic Professionals of Austin invite you to Summer Happy Hour with CASA at Hula Hut to learn more about volunteering with or supporting CASA. Join us for tasty drinks and free appetizers on Wednesday, August 21, from 5:30-8 p.m. at Hula Hut on Lake
Austin Blvd. Come for the fun, stay for the cause! CASA of Travis County speaks up for children who’ve been abused or neglected by empowering our community to volunteer as advocates for them in the court system. Find out more at: www. casatravis.org
“For The Children” School Supply Fundraiser The 24th annual fundraising campaign continues through August 28. More than 55,000 students in our community received free school supplies last year, and the need is even greater this year. The children receiving the supplies are those on the federally funded free and reduced lunch program. FTC currently serves children in Pre K- 4th grade in 10 school districts: AISD, Del Valle, Manor, Pflugerville, Leander, Round Rock, Dripping Springs, Lake Travis, Lago Vista and Hays Consolidated. Supplies are distributed to the schools prior to the start of the school year so that children can start the school year on a happy note. Donations are tax deductible and 100% of your donation goes toward buying new school supplies. Because FTC purchases supplies in bulk, as little as $40 can provide basic school supplies for 10 students. Contributions can be made securely online at www.schoolsuppliesforthechildren.org or mailed to For The Children, Inc. at P.O. Box 29346, Austin, TX 78755. To learn more about FTC call 512-505-5712 or visit our website (www.schoolsuppliesforthechildren.org). Your donation makes a difference!
TODO Austin // Aug 2013 // TODOAustin.com 13
Wanna Lose Weight?
we eat, we tell ourselves to “work it off” or “make it up tomorrow.”
the way you are, or trust yourself to make your own food choices.
By Katie Walsh
Is it any wonder, then, that Science Daily reports that three out of four American women carry some unhealthy thoughts, feelings or behaviors about food or their bodies?
Look, I get it. I went on my first diet at age 12 and continued to chronically diet for more than 10 years after that. Most of the years I spent dieting came with great health, confidence, super cute outfits, and many other awesome perks. Following a “healthy” regimen can make you feel great, and there’s nothing wrong with that.
STOP DIETING If you are a woman in good ’ole ’Merica, you don’t need me to tell you that we have a problem with food, weight, and our bodies.
Ladies, it is time to STOP DIETING and start loving ourselves exactly how we are.
As little girls, we’re given Barbie dolls with big boobs and teeny waists, whose anatomic proportions are so distorted that her internal organs literally wouldn’t fit if she were a real person.
I know a lot of you will want to tar and feather me for saying this, but guess what? DIETS DON’T WORK. I don’t care which one it is, I don’t care who invented it or what science went into it or how many people have lost how many thousands of pounds using it.
As young women, we’re expected to be good girls, told that bearing our shoulders or thighs is wrong because it distracts the boys, and taught to stuff down our sexuality lest we be labeled sluts ... all while being lambasted with images of airbrushed, worshipped, hypersexualized women who aren’t too much older than we are. Some of them even wear “schoolgirl” outfits to be sexy.
It doesn’t matter. You know why? Because carrying extra weight is not a purely physical phenomenon. It is intrinsically linked to your subconscious mind (which interprets all of those lovely childhood influences above). And if you don’t deal with whatever issues or emotions are causing you to eat or gain weight in the first place, you’ll just end up putting the pounds you lose (and probably more!) right back on after your cabbage soup diet.
We’re introduced to diets, restriction, deprivation, or “watching our figures” by our mothers, by our friends, by our CosmoGirl! magazines. We’re taught that this is normal. We’re teased for having bellies or hips, for being curvy, for eating what we want instead of low-calorie, low-fat diet food. We learn that there is a price to pay for being “free” from all of this. If we’re too comfortable with our bodies, we’re shamed by our parents or classmates for the, well, lack of shame. If we’re too lax with what
HispanosNet Austin
Dieting (with the goal of losing weight) is essentially punishing yourself. Even if you don’t consciously interpret it this way (“I LOVE eating Paleo! I would be totally lost without my calorie counter!”), by imposing rules on yourself you are telling your subconscious mind (which runs 80 percent of the show, by the way) that you do not accept yourself
But what happens when you stop drinking the shakes? What happens when the weight comes off and you “take a break”? Have any of your old eating habits changed? Or were you just suppressing them all that time? I’m willing to bet that on your “free” days, or when you’re NOT dieting, it’s far too easy to go wild ... and then the guilt begins, and it’s right back to the rules and restrictions. So I challenge you to STOP DIETING. I challenge you to consider that maybe, it’s self-love that you’re hungry for. And maybe, if you dealt with that THING you’ve been avoiding, remembered how much you rock, and celebrated your miraculous body flab and all, you’d never need another gosh-darn diet. I’ll teach you how! I’m hosting a weekend workshop with the fabulous Miss Brittany Watkins, “5 Subconscious Blocks That Keep You From Losing Weight—And How to Clear Them,” August 9-10 at Alma de Mujer Retreat Center. Free intro Friday 6-8 p.m. For more info and to register, check out brittanywatkins.com/atxworkshop
by Diana Sanchez
Berenise Perez, Dixie Sanchez (front), Nayra Tejeda, Jacqueline Palma, Anahi Palma, Santiago Gonzalez, Chuitlahuac Ortiz, Xhunaxhii Ortiz, Alma Rosa, Paulina Bustillo at Noche de “Mi Trova.”
Lupe Barragan
Jose Barroso and Julieta Alcantara Selena Rodriguez, Jackie Hernandez, Manny Lugo, Matthew Soto
Lupe Morin, Tina Balderrama, Rachel Lupercio, Mary Lou Lugo 14 TODO Austin // Aug 2013 // TODOAustin.com
Jorge Iturralde, Edgardo Marra, Mario Tapia, Pepe Ramos
Chronicles of Undercover Mexican Girl:
On the Road: Part I: Two Humans, a Dog, 3,000 Miles, and How I Re-Discovered South El Monte Who knew that Frank Zappa had written a doo-wop song about my hometown of El Monte in Southern California? That there is a long history of cowboy culture still very much alive, and it spans the entire length of California? Or that you could smell garlic fields from the freeway with the car windows rolled down, about an hour south of San Francisco? For the past several years, my husband and I had fantasized about a road trip out west to California to visit the places where we had mainly grown up. But with a 1983 Mercedes Benz that had increasingly failing mechanical parts, a dog who had never been apart from us for more than an afternoon since she was a puppy, and my overwhelming work load – it seemed nearly impossible. Then we bought a new car after Memorial Day weekend, which solved the attached-puppy problem. It still didn’t solve the problem that I had more work than I could handle, but for the first time in my life, I was self-employed and was not confined to a certain number of vacation days. I had a laptop, and WiFi exists in even the most remote places of the United States. So with a “now or never” attitude, I notified my clients that I was going to be minimally available, and off we went for two weeks. Our goal was to make it to California in the shortest amount of time, so we took the southern I-10 route, with the first night’s stop in Las Cruces, New Mexico. We never really saw the actual town, staying at a KOA campground cabin on the city With Lola at the Hotel Congress in Tucson, Arizona outskirts. It was clean, quiet, and affordable, and there was fenced-in dog area for Lola to get exercise and do her business. California had its ups and downs. It didn’t help that upon crossing the state line, after seeing lot of hot, The second night’s stop was in Tucson, Arizona. dry Arizona desert, we were tricked into thinking It seemed more appealing than Phoenix because we’d finally escaped the harsh climate for good. it was smaller to navigate, although it added an Between Quartzsite and Blythe, the land was extra hour to the third day’s drive. Plus, the historic green and lush with agriculture – the Colorado Hotel Congress in the heart of downtown was River runs north-south through this area. not only incredibly charming and dog friendly – it also turned to be the least expensive lodging However, just after passing Blythe, it was hotter from our road trip (not including the KOA cabins and dryer than Arizona, and the only rest stop for or our parents’ houses). They had superb Bloody miles to come was Wiley’s Well, home of a state Marys and still used an old-fashioned switchboard prison and not much else. I’ve seen cleaner toilets system to connect calls throughout the hotel. at a gas station, and the pavement was so hot,
North Austin Influencers Highlight Leadership Skills North Austin Influencers meet-up group was created for professionals from all areas of industry to exchange ideas, learn through educational workshops, and use their expertise in the different fields to enhance leadership skills in North Austin, Pflugerville, and Round Rock. Business professionals and executives, business owners and entrepreneurs from a diverse group of industries met on July 18 for the group’s first monthly mixer at Casa Chapala.
“Our mission is to bring people together to exchange ideas, learn through educational workshops and mixers using the expertise of top industry professionals,” said Monica Peña, North Austin Influencers organizer. The North Austin Influencers group was created for individuals to continue learning in their profession or passions through connection building, self-improvement, using strategies for success, and experience sharing. The group will offer individuals an opportunity to enhance their leadership skills by building relationships with like-minded individuals through once a
| By Alexandra M. Landeros
Lola could not stand on it for more than a minute. who had left because the cities had seemingly We carried her back into the car and decided to nothing to offer, artistically or intellectually. skip a picnic lunch for the sake of making it to my The South El Monte Arts Posse (SEMAP) describes parents’ house. itself as a “collective of artists, writers, urban I was born in Los Angeles and spent my very early planners, educators, scholars, farmers, ecologists, years in Pasadena, California, before my parents swap meet vendors, making art for (and) with moved back to Mexico, shortly after my younger community … to make interdisciplinary art projects brother was born. When I was about to start the that activate people and space in South El Monte/ first grade, we moved back to California, to a city El Monte and engage in dialogue with members called South El Monte, tucked just west of the of this community and with other communities.” San Gabriel Mountains and 30 miles from the Pacific Ocean, whether you head in a southerly or In getting to know Romeo, Caribbean, and by following the recent development of their projects, westerly direction. I’ve “discovered” some fascinating history about Although the weather was always just about my hometown. El Monte is historically known perfect, I didn’t think much of South El Monte. It as the “End of the Santa Fe Trail,” and in a way, was a mostly industrial town with very little culture, it seems symbolic that it’s at the end – ignored, and as a child and teenager, I couldn’t wait to grow overlooked, unexplored. Back in the 1920s and up and leave. A few months ago, however, thanks into the early 1940s, there was the infamous “Gay’s to the Internet, I connected with a group called Lion Farm.” Throughout the 1950s and 1960s there the South El Monte Arts Posse. Associating “arts” was the Legion Stadium, which hosted concerts with anything in my hometown was foreign to me, by famous bands, including The Beatles and the so I was eager and curious to meet some of the Grateful Dead). In the 1990s, there was an active founders, Romeo Guzmán and Carribean Fragoza. back-yard punk rock movement, which I learned on this trip that my younger brother had been a Our first morning back in California, we drove five part of. minutes away to Legg Lake in the Whittier Narrows Regional Park and Recreation Area. Getting out of And this is only the tip of the iceberg. So if you the car, accompanied by Lola, we saw the first came from what you’ve regarded as a backwater sprawling fields of green since leaving the Hill minority, working-class city, whether it’s in Country of Texas, and it was a welcome sight. It industrial California or the agricultural Rio Grande couldn’t have been more than eighty degrees, and Valley of Texas, you never know what historical treasures lay dormant and what other people just it was breezy. like you are floating around as part of the diaspora. The park was much more than I remembered. Maybe there is already a group bringing your On a Tuesday morning, people of all ages were hometown’s art and culture to life – or maybe it’s walking or running the trails and using the outdoor up to you to start the wheels turning. exercise equipment. I recognized the old fanciful sea creature sculptures, which were designed As the 1963 song, performed by The Penguins and in the 1960s by the Mexican-American artist, written by Frank Zappa, says, “I’m all alone, feeling Benjamin Dominguez, who had also created so blue, thinking about you, and the love we once sculpture at the Mexico City Chapultepec zoo, as I knew. And each time I do, it brings back those memories of El Monte.” I grew up hating South learned later that morning. El Monte, but now I have a newly found love for We finally caught up with Romeo and Caribbean, my hometown, and it’s nice to know I’m no longer and their little girl Aura, and I learned all about what alone, no longer the person I thought was the only they were doing to revive the history of South El creative soul in the city. Monte and El Monte, to create a cultural exchange with Mexico City, and to connect with current Stay tuned for more tales from my California residents as well the diaspora – people like me adventures … month mixers, development workshops and/ or series, and information on other leadership opportunities in the area. “This mixer was great with so many professionals with a diverse background,” said member, Dr. Tina Balderrama Kubicek. “The energy was dynamic.” Two influencers were highlighted at the inaugural gathering. Casa Chapala owner Lupe Barragan spoke about starting Austin Tequila Society, a community of tequila aficionados and lovers-of-agave who gather to enjoy tequila in its
many forms. Rebecca Contreras shared how her husband and she started LaunchPad, the Center. They have since produced Spicy Mama Salsa, the salsa that “gives back,” with thirty percent of profits going into the Austin community to help educate, empower and the inner city community work through LaunchPad’s youth programs. Next month’s mixer will be at PBK Stem & Stein in Pflugerville with featured influencer Ruben Cantu, founder of Social Good Summit Austin. For more information, visit: www.meetup.com/ NORTH-AUSTIN-INFLUENCERS. TODO Austin // Aug 2013 // TODOAustin.com 15
LATINO AMERICANS
Tuesday, September 10 at 7:30 PM Excerpts from the upcoming PBS series, and panel discussion with renowned historians. Presented to you by KLRU-TV, Austin PBS & the City’s Emma S. Barrientos MACC. MODERATOR: Cinthia S. Salinas | MEET PRODUCER: John J. Valadez, (director of “The Longoria Affair”) RSVP at klru.org/latinoamericans The City of Austin is proud to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require special assistance for participation in our programs or use of our facilities please call 512-974-3772 or 711 Relay Texas. La ciudad de Austin está comprometida al Acta de Americanos Incapacitados. Si requiere asistencia para participar en nuestros programas por favor llame al teléfono número 512-974-3772 o 711 Relay Texas.
Reboot Your Brain
PACHANGA! LATINO MUSIC FESTIVAL PRESENTS:
CAFÉ TACVBA
Lose Weight Without Dieting Alma de Mujer Retreat Center: 13621 FM 2769 (Volente Road), 78726
SAT, SEPT 7 ON SALE FRIDAY, 10AM!
AUSTIN CITY LIMITS LIVE AT THE MOODY THEATER TICKETS: ACL-LIVE.COM, 877 4FLY TIX, BOX OFFICE
Learn more and register at with
Brittany Watkins
www.brittanywatkins.com/atxworkshop