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Volume V / September 2013
Inside I have to admit it’s getting better...
KLRU Hispanic Heritage Latino HealthCare Luis Miguel CASA ’Hero Run
Coming attractions honor culture and heritage
Asian American Resource Center By Yvonne Lim Wilson Left to right, Lesley Varghese, AARC Executive Director & General Counsel; Leng Wong, Lucky Chaos founder; Sunyong Chung, artist; Sona Shah, UT-CAAS Program Director; Marina Bhargava, GAACC Executive Director; Irwin Tang, author/historian; Dr. Betty Hwang, ACC District Board Trustee; and Phuong Binh Nguyen, APD community liaison. Photo by Patrick Y Wong / AtelierWong.com
Latino Heritage Goes Prime Time on KLRU For more than two generations, KLRU programming has been a reliable indicator of Austin’s cultural climate. With ethnic demographic trends favoring our Hispanic population, the station’s September offerings reflect that dynamic.
Wednesday, September 11, 6 p.m. at the Wittliff Galleries, Alkek Library, Texas State University. Stirring a lot of good will in local Latino music circles, KLRU CEO and GM Bill Stotesbery gave Tejano music advocate Leonard Davila an opportunity to showcase regional artists and the family atmosphere of the dance halls in which they perform.
In a sign of the times, KLRU’s courting is sure to earn brand loyalty with Austin’s growing Hispanic marketplace during National Hispanic Heritage Month. Not surprisingly, music is helping drive the shift, but the centerpiece of the primetime presence will be a six-hour documentary series, “Latino Americans,” that will air on consecutive Tuesdays on September 17 and 24, and October 1 at 7 p.m. The series will also air in Spanish six consecutive Fridays on KLRU’s VME (18.4) channel at 9 p.m. The film documents the evolution of a new “Latino American” identity from the 1500s to the present day, featuring interviews with close to 100 Latinos from the worlds of politics, business and pop culture — including Herman Badillo, Dolores Huerta, Gloria Estefan and Rita Moreno — as well as deeply personal portraits of lesser-known Latinos who lived through key chapters in American history.
will be available. Children can enjoy game booths, moonwalks, and a mechanical ride. Craft vendors will also be on site for your shopping pleasure. Celebrate Diez y Seis de Septiembre with the Honorable Gonzalo Barrientos as Austin Community College invites the public to its Riverside Campus on Monday, September 16, 12-1 p.m. Sample tasty traditional dishes and enjoy the rhythmic steps of Roy Lozano’s Ballet Folklórico, plus musical entertainment from Johnny Degollado y su Conjunto, and Boca Abajo. Free, presented by the ACC Center for Public Policy & Political Studies, the Latino/Latin American Studies Center, the Office of Student Success, Student Life, and the Center for Student Political Studies club.
Vamos al Baile” producer Leonard Davila and KLRU’s Bill Stotesbery
Bianca Malinowski Lands Guest TV Roles
The result is “Vamos al Baile (Let’s go to the Dance),” which airs on Thursday, September 26 at 8 p.m. The one hour special features Little Joe y La Familia, Ruben Ramos and the Mexican Revolution, and Joel Guzman with Sarah Fox. Also on Thursday, September 26 (7:30 p.m.), “Arts in Context: Tardeadas” features music of the Eastside from Conjunto Los Pinkys. The band is noted for its weekly show at the White Horse, a popular Eastside honky-tonk which sees a diverse audience personifying the changing area.
Diez y Seis Celebrations Juan Seguin depicted in “Latino Americans
KLRU and PBS will co-host three public screenings of “Latino Americans” prior to broadcast, each attended by the program’s producer, John Valadez, in collaboration with UT’s Center for Mexican American Studies, the Teresa Lozano Long Institute of Latin American Studies, Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center and the Center for the Study of the Southwest at Texas State University-San Marcos. Screenings are Tuesday, September 10, noon at KLRU in Studio 6A; Tuesday, September 10, 7:30 p.m. at the ESB Mexican American Cultural Center; and
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. 02 TODO Austin // Sep 2013 // TODOAustin.com
The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center hosts “Dieciseis - ¡Viva México!” on Friday, September 13 at 5 p.m. Performers include Ballet Folklorico, Mariachi Corbetas, Son Armado, Leticia Rodriguez, Proyecto Teatro and Texas State Mariachis. Fiestas Patrias of Austin presents the 35th annual Diez y Seis de Septiembre Fiesta on September 14-15 at Fiesta Gardens. The event will feature ballet folklorico and a variety of Tejano bands such as Ram Herrera, Massore, Ricky Naranjo y Los Gamblers, Los AT Boyz, Conjunto Baraja de Oro, Los Amigos A.S.G., Yayo Castillo y Rumores, Cinco Doce, Da Krazy Pimpz, Sol de Tierra Caliente, and more. Along with traditional festival food fare, culinary delights of Mexican and Mexican-American cultures
Volume V, Number 5 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
Bianca Malinowski
St. Edward’s alum Bianca Malinowski will be a guest star in the season premiere of both ABC’s “Nashville” and CBS’s “Criminal Minds.” Malinowski is also shooting for a lead role in “Reversal,” a film being directed by Mexico City’s Jose Manuel Craviotto. Malinowski, the daughter of a Polish diplomat and Puerto Rican school teacher, landed her first co-starring role in Nora Roberts’ Lifetime movie “Midnight Bayou,” alongside Faye Dunaway and Jerry O’Connell. The film propelled her move to Los Angeles where she soon landed two more leading roles in independent films, one of them portraying a Colombian girl in “The Colombian Connection,” with Tom Sizemore. The film earned her a Female Action Star of the Year nomination at the “Action on Film Festival.” In 2011, she co-founded Lightworker Entertainment, a production company devoted to raising the human consciousness through film and television.
Mohammad Al-Bedaiwi, Skylar Bonilla, Adriana Cadena, Roy Casagranda, Cindy Casares, 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, Dana Harada, 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
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS // Güner Arslan, Mia Garcia, Harish Kotecha, Alexandra M. Landeros, Callie Langford, Cristina Parker, Blake Shanley
Web Design // Mike Hernandez
Contributing Writers/Photographers/Artists //
TODO Austin: Multicultural Media for All of Austin. TODO
Cover // AARC photo by Patrick Y Wong/AtelierWong.com
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
2013\14 SEASON A MidSuMMEr’S Night With
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Community Responds to Central Health’s Draft Strategic Plan By Frank Rodriguez
Latino HealthCare Forum The Latino HealthCare Forum (LHCF) is a community based nonprofit dedicated to making quality, affordable health care accessible to everyone. The mission of the LHCF is to increase the number of insured Texans, improve health care quality, lower costs, and reduce health disparities. LHCF works to build consumer and community leaders to support health and healthcare transformation efforts. We believe that transformation will occur only when consumers are engaged—especially the underserved and vulnerable community member. Participating in partnership with those entities responsible for health and healthcare is a critical step of engagement. On July 17, Central Health invited the community to review Central Health’s draft three-year Strategic Plan and provide input from July 17 to August 6. In response to this invitation, LHCF conducted a community meeting on July 25 with representatives of community based organizations involved in community based health, healthcare, and basic needs. Organizations represented included Austin Interfaith, Alliance for African American Health in Central Texas, Citizens for Equitable Healthcare in Travis County, Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Initiative, Hispanic Physicians Association, Latino HealthCare Forum, La Raza Roundtable, LULAC District VII and PromoSalud Promotores.
Collaborative, the City of Austin, and the Austin Travis County Integral Care will budget $242 million to be spent under Central Health’s watch as the anchor for the 1115 Medicaid Waiver.
Austin Immigrant Rights Activists Build ‘Pathway’ to Congress
3. In addition to the priorities shown in Central Health’s draft Strategic Plan, ensure that public investment is funding community based priorities such as expanded infrastructure through workforce development and training; consumer and community engagement; and, public accountability.
By Nora De LaRosa
4. Facilitate cross organization learning and communication on the Strategic Plan. 5. Build support for the priorities and initiatives of the Strategic Plan. 6. Suggest other priorities and initiative for the Strategic Plan. 7. Use the meeting as a continuing forum to share, learn, support, and advocate for key community based priorities. Central Health Strategic Plan The CHWG reviewed each priority and initiative and makes the following general observations: • Central Health is to be commended for inviting the community to provide input into the development of the Strategic Plan. The workgroup acknowledges and appreciates that in the Eight years since Central Health’s creation this is the first time that the community has had input into the plan. • The Strategic Plan is comprehensive in capturing a lot of moving parts in the new healthcare landscape. As Central Health has made mention, the plan moves from just not increasing access to care, but transforming care as well. The CHWG recognizes the complex and evolving healthcare environment and Central Health’s herculean efforts in implementing projects within this planning framework.
Austin community leaders and several Austin immigrant rights groups held a press conference August 21 at Congressman Michael McCaul’s Austin office, announcing their intention to build an actual “pathway” to citizenship that ends at the Representative’s front door. As Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security, McCaul is in a key position to influence an immigration reform bill inclusive of a pathway to citizenship. The group’s aim is to have McCaul join other GOP and Democratic Representatives in publicly supporting a pathway to citizenship for the nation’s 11 million undocumented immigrants, 1.7 million of whom reside in Texas. “Congressman McCaul has a choice: he can stand with his constituents and open the doors to citizenship for 11 million dreams, or take responsibility for creating a dead-end,” says Alejandro Caceres, Executive Director of the Austin Immigrant Rights Coalition. Participating groups the Workers Defense Project, University Leadership Initiative, Austin MoveOn Council and AIRC. AIRC led a street blockade of 6th Street and Congress Avenue for several hours in June as a symbolic border wall to dramatize the deaths of border crossers in front of Sen. John Cornyn’s office. “One out of every four residents in District 10 is Latino and many live in mixed documented households,” said Caceres. “At any
• The CHWG acknowledges that with the passage of Proposition 1, the passage of the Affordable Care Act, the implementation of the 1115 Medicaid Waiver, and Senator Watson’s 10x10 Plan, there is much to plan for, implement, evaluate, and fund.
LHCF’s Frank Rodriguez at July meeting
We decided to call ourselves, the “Community Health Working Group” or CHWG. The CHWG will continue to meet and collaborate on health and healthcare matters with particular emphasis on increasing the efficiency, transparency, and accountability of public healthcare programs. CHWG Objectives 1. Review the Central Health Strategic Plan FY 2014-2016 and provide comment and follow up actions as needed. 2. Ensure that the community is aware of the importance of the Strategic Plan the plan is the blueprint from the County’s healthcare authority for investment priorities. For example, over the next 5 years, three agencies—the Community Care 04 TODO Austin // Sep 2013 // TODOAustin.com
• Every strategic aspect of health care reform currently being considered, from health insurance coverage to health care access to patient centered comprehensive services to expanding primary care providers to improving quality of care also has the potential to ameliorate health disparities and improve the health of minority communities. Consequently, CHG asserts that every such health care reform proposal/strategy must be assessed/evaluated regarding its implications and impact for ameliorating health disparities and improving the health of minority communities. • The CHWG believes that the one common thread is all of this planning is the need to engage the community and consumer and this is our focus in reviewing the Strategic Plan. We believe that consumer engagement is important to the success of all models of health care delivery. Ensuring the presence of an active consumer voice is especially important for vulnerable populations. Central Health is implementing new health care delivery and this is a learning process for all in working with vulnerable populations. Consumer engagement as a part of the service delivery model is important for early identification of promising practices to expand and potential problems to correct. The rapid feedback consumer engagement provides is critical to the success of new health care delivery models.
Alejandro Caceres (R) of AIRC visits Texas reps
moment, many of the Congressman’s own constituents could be faced with the deportation of a family member. The pathway to citizenship does not begin with border enforcement but with the safety of our own community.” Deborah Alemu of the University Leadership Initiative stated, “Support from Rep. McCaul for a pathway to citizenship is not only needed but necessary to ensure we can stop the suffering of the people he represents.” Alemu led ULI’s efforts earlier this year to stop the deportation of a local Austin mother, Manuela Salas, who resided in McCaul’s district. Salas was deported in May despite that fact that her father and two daughters are U.S citizens. As part of the August 21 action, organizers created a symbolic “pathway” outside McCaul’s office and invited the congressman to join the group. Organizers plan on hosting additional events at McCaul’s office until support for a pathway to citizenship is reached.
‘Black Enterprise’ Remembering Austin’s Pioneering Entrepreneurs Along east 6th Street in Austin in the 1870s, a bustling African American commercial district developed, with many black owned business growing and thriving, not only serving Austin’s African American community, but the city as a whole. Within this district were many food related businesses – groceries, meat markets, restaurants, etc. The Austin History Center’s presentation “Black Enterprise Remembering Austin’s Pioneering Entrepreneurs,” by food writer Toni Tipton-Martin, will explore the development and impact of this commercial district. There will also be a showing of the short documentary, “Mama Sugar,” on Tuesday, September 10, 6:30 p.m., produced by Foodways Texas, about the charming matriarch of the Sugar Shack Trailblazers, a trail riding club that Nathan Jean Whittaker (Mama Sugar) Sanders brings her East Texas old School cooking traditions to along with her annual Juneteenth birthday party. The program is part of a series of events related to the current exhibit at the AHC, “How to Prepare a Possum: 19th Century Cuisine in Austin.” The exhibit explores all avenues of early Austin food, including what food was indeed local, how food was prepared, how and where people shopped for food, what it cost, and where people went out to eat. The exhibit runs through January 10, 2014. The program is co-sponsored by the AHCA and is made possible in part by a grant from Humanities Texas, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
ESB-Mexican American Cultural Center
The Grand Opening Celebration By Yvonne Lim Wilson
Save Tejano History Symposium
On Saturday, September 28, the long awaited Asian American Resource Center (8401 Cameron Road) officially opens with free festivities including an official ceremony and ribbon cutting. A street festival runs 10 a.m.4 p.m., with music headliners, the 512 Band, community information booths, vendors, children’s activities, and cultural indoor and outdoor performances.
The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center, the Parks Department of the City of Austin and the Battle of Medina Historical Society present “Save Tejano History Symposium” on Saturday, September 28, 2-5 p.m. at ESB Mexican American Cultural Center. Scheduled to speak are Senator Gonzalo Barrientos, Dr. Charles Rogers (Chief of the Cherokee Nation of Mexico), Dan Arellano (“The Tejano Connection to El Diez y Seis”), Don Miles (“The Tejano Connection to Cinco de Mayo”), Dr. Emilio Zamora (“Defining the Cause for Equal Rights”), Jim Estrada (“The ABC’s and N of the new Manifest Destiny”), Dr. Patricia D. Lopez (“Chicana/o Studies in the Flesh”), and Jose Antonio Lopez (“Tejanos: Where do we go from here”). In keeping with the Battle of Medina Historical Society’s mission statement, authors and historians will shed light on the true story of Texas and the contributions of its Tejano ancestors. Books will be available for purchase and signing. The free event will have light refreshments available and re-enactors in period attire will also be present.
Austin Observes India Independence By Harish Kotecha
Austin’s Indian community celebrated India’s 66th Independence Day in August with festivities including flag hoisting ceremonies at Swaminarayan Temple of Austin and B.A.P.S. Temple. Central Market also held an event with live entertainment by Naga Valli, highlighting Indian culture in Austin. Photo by Ravi Pothukuchy
Asian American Resource Center
A quick lesson on Indian history: India begins with evidence of human activity of Homo sapiens, as long as 75,000 years ago, as the Indus Valley civilization spread and flourished in the northwestern part of the Indian subcontinent. An Iron Age Vedic civilization extended over much of the Indo-Gangetic plain and witnessed the rise of major polities known as the Mahajanapadas. In one of these kingdoms, (Magadha), Mahavira and Gautama Buddha were born, in the 6th or 5th century BCE, and propagated their Shramanic philosophies.
Various parts of India were ruled by numerous middle kingdoms for the next 1,500 years, among which the Gupta Empire stood out during this period known as the classical or “Golden Age of India.” Indian civilization, administration, culture, and religion (Hinduism and Buddhism) spread to much of Asia, while kingdoms in southern India had maritime business links with the Roman Empire from around 77 CE. This was followed by Muslim rule and the British Raj, until 1947 when India became independent. Metro Austin’s has one of the country’s largest Indian American populations, with 8,000 in Austin and nearing double that in the area.
Self-guided tours of Asian heritage and cultural exhibits will be available, including Irwin Tang’s “Asian Texans Exhibit”, the Austin History Center’s “Asian American History Exhibit,” the “New Immigrants” photo exhibit, and others. Also, artists Sunyong Chung and Philippe Klinefelter, will talk about their outdoor sculpture “The Lotus,” commissioned through the City of Austin’s Art in Public Places Program for the Center. Food will be available for purchase from local Asian food trailers, and complimentary cake and Asian desserts will be served. There is limited parking but a shuttle service will be available along Cameron Road. For details, visit www. austintexas.gov/department/asian or call 512-974-1700.
Dharma and Yoga Fest “As the different streams having their sources in different places all mingle their water in the sea, so, O Lord, the different paths which men take through different tendencies, various though they appear, crooked or straight, all lead to Thee.” Swami Vivekananda used this quote in his famous “Sisters and Brothers of America” address to the Parliament of Religions in Chicago on September 11, 1893. The speech introduced one of the oldest religions in the world, Sanatana Dharma (currently referred to as Hinduism), to the west. Along with Swami Ji’s travels all across the western hemisphere, it also paved the way for many aspects of the Hindu religion like yoga, meditation, breathing exercises, living in harmony with nature and vegetarianism to become part of everyday life in America and Europe. To remember Swami Vivekananda’s message of “Universal Peace through Dharma and Yoga,” and to commemorate his 150th birth anniversary, “Dharma and Yoga Fest” will be held on Saturday, September 28, at Hogg Auditorium at the University of Texas. The event is being produced by Hindu Dharma-based and other spiritual organizations in Austin. Various interactive sessions will be presented on the four Yoga tracks - Gnana, Bhakti, Karma and Raja Yogas. There will also be fun sessions for kids of all ages and a skit on the life of Swami Vivekananda performed by children. An after “party” featuring an outdoor Bhajan session and dinner will be provided for a nominal cost. All members of the Greater Austin community, irrespective of their religious/spiritual beliefs, are invited to the free event. For more info, go to dharmaandyogafest.org/Austin or Sulekha.com TODO Austin // Sep 2013 // TODOAustin.com 05
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texaSperformingartS.org | 512.471.4454 photos by: toni rudov, Drew farrell, gabriel Bienczycki, Joan marcus, Carlos mateus de Lima, petra Hajska, ©Brinkhoff/mögenburg, Quentin Bacon, Sarah Small 2013-2014 presentinG sponsor
Irwin Tang By Yvonne Lim Wilson
Irwin Tang was born and raised in College Station, Texas, the son of Chinese immigrants employed by Texas A&M University. He has seen the great arc of Americans rising out of the shacks (literal shacks in College Station) that segregation had put them in, and the explosion of Asian Americans onto the Texas landscape. He is the co-author of, “Asian Texans: Our Histories and Our Lives,” a history of Asian Americans in Texas, and, “How I Became a Black Man and Other Metamorphoses,” a story collection. He is working on a graphic novel entitled, “Lilith.” Asian Austin: Did you know what you wanted to do with your life or did it just happen? Irwin Tang: I knew I wanted to tell stories and
‘Constructing the Muslim Enemy’ Lecture By Dana Harada
The University of Texas Center for Asian American Studies is holding a free talk by Dr. Deepa Kumar, “Constructing the Muslim Enemy: From the Crusades to 9/11,” on Thursday, September 12, 7 p.m. in Avaya Auditorium on the U.T. campus. Kumar, an Associate Professor of Media Studies and Middle Eastern Studies at Rutgers University, is driven by an active engagement with the key issues that characterize our era - neoliberalism and imperialism. She has been active in various social movements for peace and justice and has written numerous articles in both scholarly journals and alternative media. “Outside the Box: Corporate Media, Globalization and the UPS Strike,” Kumar’s first book, concerns the power of collective struggle in effectively challenging the priorities of neoliberalism. Her second title, “Islamophobia and the Politics of Empire,” looks at how the “Muslim
propagate my opinions as early as high school. But everyone had me pegged for a science and math nerd. AA: What was your attraction to your vocation? What drew you to do the work you do? IT: I want to tell stories that no one has ever heard and make people think more incisively about their world. My main income comes not from writing, but from being a professional counselor. I come back to writing because I am obsessed. AA: What does the American Dream mean to you? IT: I believe that the United States was not born until Dr. Martin Luther King gave our “I Have a Dream” speech in Washington, D.C. That was
enemy” has historically been mobilized to suit the goals of empire. Kumar began her research into the politics of empire shortly after the tumultuous events of 9/11. She is currently working on a third book on the discourses of terrorism within the mainstream media and in the political sphere in the U.S. Hosted by the Center for Asian American Studies with support from the Office of the President, the Department of English, Division of Diversity and Community Engagement, Middle Eastern Studies and the South Asia Institute, for me see www.utexas.edu/cola/ centers/aas
when the Declaration of Independence and there have been in New York and Los Angeles. Constitution took on real meaning and substance There is no Rev. Al Sharpton or Mayor Marion Barry inciting the closure of Asian businesses. in our nation. Those racially-motivated movements really So, the American Dream, to me, can never prevented Asians from being included in the power be the individuals’ dream alone. It is only when all structure. Americans have a reasonable, and reasonably equal, opportunity to achieve their dreams that we will Take this example. With fewer Asians and more have achieved the American Dream. Considering blacks, Hispanics, and whites, Houston has elected our previously-unimaginable wealth as a nation more Asians to their city council than Los Angeles. and the fact that opportunity has not improved for Texas’s atmosphere of inclusion must continue or about one half of our nation since the 1970s, we the weight of American history will pull parties into veiled, or open, anti-Asian rhetoric. are far, far from achieving the American Dream. AA: Is there anything particular about Austin that AA: What do you consider the most important cultural value for you and for those close to you? inspires you? IT: Does this mean that I have to live up to those IT: Its zeitgeist and creativity. values? Family is important. I include friends in that, AA: Are there generational issues, or cultural issues, too. That does not mean I have been a “good son,” or both, between young and old Asian American though. My parents have been far more “filially pious” than I have. Austinites? IT: Of course. But we learn from our differences. AA: Anything else you’d like to add? AA: Asian Americans are becoming a powerful IT: Thank you, Asian Austin and Asian Austinites, for force in Austin economically, culturally, politically reading my work. and otherwise. How do you see Asian Americans ______________________________________ fitting into the larger Austin culture and community? Asian Austin at www.AsianAustin.com is an IT: The question, I believe, should be, “will we fit in online news source featuring news about Asian on our own terms?” Or will we fit in according to American people, organizations and events in Austin. Visit the Asian Austin website and “Like” how others will allow us to fit in? us on Facebook for calendar and event details! The great thing about Austin and Texas is that there Contact publisher Yvonne Lim Wilson at yvonne@ have been no protracted anti-Asian movements like asianaustin.com.
‘Asian Texans: Our Histories and Our Lives’ Photo Exhibit By Yvonne Lim Wilson
and anyone who teaches history at the schools, this is a fantastic history that can be presented to students,” Tang said. “I believe people will be fascinated by the photographs and stories.” Some highlights:
Rais Bhuiyan, a Bangladeshi American, was shot in the face by a white supremacist seeking revenge in the days after 9/11. Bhuiyan survived, avoiding brain damage but lost sight in one of his eyes. His attacker, Mark Stroman, was arrested and sentenced to death.
- Photograph of Texas Vietnamese shrimpers from the late ’70s displayed alongside a photo of a Klu Klux Klan leader demonstrating to Klan members how to burn a Vietnamese shrimping boat. The Vietnamese shrimpers, who struggled against harassment and vandalism, sued the KKK and won.
Bhuiyan, after reflecting on what happened to him, forgave his attacker and started a campaign to save Stroman’s life, creating the World Without Hate movement. From death row, Stroman, repented, apologized and repudiated his racist beliefs, crediting Bhuiyan and his inspiring example.
1870 drawing depicting Chinese Americans and Chinese immigrants crossing the frozen Missouri River en route to Texas.
A photo of Bhuiyan is just one of the 70 photographs and drawings on display at the “Asian Texans: Our Histories, Our Lives” exhibit featured at the grand opening of the Asian American Resource Center. The exhibit will feature every Asian ethnic group in Texas, from Tibetan to Mung to Bangladeshi, totally approximately 25 different groups. “It’s going to be pretty groundbreaking. There hasn’t been an exhibit of this extent about Asian Texans,” said exhibit creator Irwin Tang, who is also the author of “Asian Texans: Our Histories and Our Lives.”
- Photograph of the new Tibetan Buddhist lama at the newly built Tibetan Temple in Austin. 1924 Texas A&M yearbook photo of Texan-born Taro Kishi, who played running back for the Texas Aggies and was one of the first Asian students there. - Still shot of a Japanese war bride from a U.S. military propaganda film. Hurricane Katrina evacuee Kim Vo, August 2005
Tang is scheduled to talk at the grand opening celebration about the photo exhibit, which features many photos from his book as well as some newly acquired photographs. Dr. Deepa Kumar
“I’d like the entire community, especially Texas historians TODO Austin // Sep 2013 // TODOAustin.com 07
Creating Community: Asian American Resource Center Opens // By Yvonne Lim Wilson
Twenty years ago, what started as a distant idea to serve and foster the Asian American community and Austin community at large has now become a reality. The Asian American Resource Center (AARC), located in Northeast Austin at 8401 Cameron Road, opens its doors on September 28. “The AARC is dedicated to the preservation, exhibition, cultivation, and celebration of Asian/Asian American culture and heritage through educational programming and community outreach. The vision is to build a resource center that will increase commerce and showcase the best of Asian/Asian American culture, allowing the community to educate, congregate, and celebrate its heritage,” according to a statement on the Center’s web site. AARC manager Taja Beekley envisions the Center becoming a cultural destination for the City of Austin while also providing much needed services. “The facility is called the ’Resource Center’ because our mission is not only about cultural programming, but also providing other services and information to an underserved community,” Beekley said.
Asian Americans account for 6.5 percent of the population (approximately 50,000 people, according to the 2010 U.S. Census) and are the fastest growing segment of the population. While the general population of Austin doubles every 20 to 25 years, the number of Asians in Austin is doubling every ten years, according to City projections.
“That this project is completed is due to the support from the community, Asian and Austin at large,” said Schiller Liao, AARC nonprofit Board President. “Working with the city and the federal government made this happen and credit must be given to the many people who committed to make this happen. We will continue on this route to serve the community.”
Asian Americans are an extremely diverse group, spanning hundreds of subpopulations, many different languages, various religions, crossing educational levels and socioeconomic status from top to bottom. Having a physical space to interact is important in building community. And as Austin becomes an increasingly more international city, the Center provides a physical space to host international delegations and local community gatherings.
“The AARC nonprofit supports programming in cultural arts, social services and economic development,” said AARC nonprofit Executive Director & General Counsel, Lesley Varghese. “We are broadly interested in quality of life for Asian Americans in Austin. We’re a community advocate.”
The AARC represents an anticipated collaboration between the City of Austin and the AARC nonprofit organization. Under the proposed structure, the Austin Parks and Recreation Department provides the annual operating budget, which includes staffing. The AARC nonprofit, working alongside the City, creates programs the AARC will offer.
By establishing community partnerships, the AARC nonprofit is able to leverage community contacts to benefit the Center. Planned programs include spring and summer camps for children, after school programs, as well as adult and senior programs including computer classes, social activities, wellness hours (for example, Tai Chi, yoga, meditation), self-defense classes, culinary demonstration classes, and a community garden. The programs are currently under review at press time. Cont. on pg. 10
Grand Ballroom Seats 300 banquet style or 400 auditorium style, with built in projector, screen and speaker system, and performance stage.
Great Lawn The location of the building was moved slightly to accommodate the beautiful live oak heritage trees and walking trails.
08 TODO Austin // Sep 2013 // TODOAustin.com
“Lotus” COA Art in Public Places program Nine-foot tall lotus petals and center fountain base of hand-carved Texas granite. Mosaic set in pavement displays lotus blossom and colorful pond creatures. Created by artists Sunyong Chung and Philippe Klinefelter.
Display Cases Gifts from the City of Austin’s International Sister Cities in Asia and Asian dignitaries.
About the Asian American Resource Center
Architectural features
The AARC sits on a 15-acre site at 8401 Cameron Road in Northeast Austin. Phase one of the master plan is comprised of a 16,000 square foot community center which includes a grand ballroom, foyer/gallery space, nine classrooms, a conference room, four office spaces, a library/computer lab, interior courtyard and great lawn. Construction of the $5.75 million project began in spring 2012 and was completed in summer 2013. The facility will officially open to the public, with spaces available to rent for a variety of purposes, on October 1. The mission of the AARC is to provide public resources, collaborative and educational programming, and a cultural destination that enrich the lives of Austin’s diverse Asian and Asian American community.
• Building architecture based on the Taktsang Palphug Monastery or “Tiger’s Nest” in Bhutan. • Round moon window influenced by East Asian design. • LEED Silver Certification, includes high-end HVAC system, solar panels and shower for bike commuters. • Feng Shui Master consulted on the project.
AARC Regular Business Hours: Monday: closed; Tuesday and Friday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. AARC Online: www.austintexas.gov/department/ asian-american-resource-center, and www.facebook.com/AARC.TX
Computer Lab/ Library Eight computers for public use during regular business hours. A large collection of Asian children’s books; also includes fiction, cook books, travel books, and other Asian related themes. Conference Room Features high-tech Smart Board for presentations and teleconferencing.
Interior Courtyard Interior courtyard features a bamboo-lined wall and two facing rock decks, Gingko Biloba planted in the center as the signature tree, and AARC 501(c)3 nonprofit donor recognition wall.
Classrooms Nine classrooms including one with a sink for visual art, cooking demonstrations and horticultural purposes. Three of these rooms are designated for community purposes such as meetings, entertainment, and other activities with no rental charge. TODO Austin // Sep 2013 // TODOAustin.com 09
Asian American Resource Center Opens
A Proud Community “To me, we already achieved all that we wanted to achieve the day we broke ground. Now the building is here. It’s just evidence of what we’ve done as a community. I don’t just mean the Asian American community. I mean the entire Austin community. We came a long way. We prevailed because it’s about doing something good and I’m happy about that more than anything. The city is changing every day. We have to contribute and add value. It’s not about a building. The AARC represents what each and every one of us contribute. That’s what we want to celebrate.” Channy Soeur Network of Asian American Organizations Founder and Immediate Past President .............................................................................. “The Asian American Resource Center is a great achievement and will give an identity to the fastest growing community in Central Texas. The center will allow Austinites to experience the diverse culture and heritage of the different Asian countries and will make a significant impact in promoting Austin to Asia. AARC will be a great asset as GAACC recruits Asian American businesses and talent to Austin and make a significant impact in the economic vitality of our City. This is a great day for the Asian community in Austin and we are all proud and thankful for this great achievement. I want to congratulate each and every one who worked hard and had a role in making this a reality.”
“We’re going to have some really exciting, fun and compelling programs for the Asian American community, as well as advocacy, civil rights, crosscultural learning, international diplomacy. As our population grows, we need to have a place for that. I also think it will play a strong role in strengthening our community to showcase the best of our community. It’s a place through which Asian Americans can give back. It’s a place for the artists in our community too. I am excited about them having a home to showcase their work and exchange ideas. A lot of cities are looking at us to learn how we did it. It’s a great accomplishment for our community and the City of Austin.” Jennifer Kim Former Austin City Council Member .............................................................................. “That this project completed is due to the support from the community - Asian and Austin at large. Working with the City and federal government made this happen. We will continue on this route to serve the community. Asian Americans can be very proud of this.” Schiller Liao Asian American Resource Center Nonprofit Board President ..............................................................................
Rashed Islam Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce Board Chair ..............................................................................
“By the tireless efforts and pro-activeness of the Asian Community leaders, with the help of the City of Austin, this wonderful project has finally become a reality in a relatively short timeframe. AARC opens its doors to a greater
integration of the Asian Community with the greater Austin Community at large.” Ali Khataw Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce Immediate Past Board Chair .............................................................................. “The EDA investment in the Asian Resource Center is an example of enlightened selfinterest by the agency. Given the emerging strength of the Asian community in Central Texas, it makes perfect sense for EDA to reach out and take advantage of its knowledge, experience, and expertise. We look forward to the planned Grand Opening and to a long, productive partnership in the years to come.” Pedro R. Garza Austin Regional Office Director U.S. Economic Development Admin. (EDA) .............................................................................. “It was the first time Asians of all kinds came together to support something like this. Before that, it was just a dream. The Asians in Austin are different: we worked together as one.” Niyanta Spelman Austin Asian American Chamber of Commerce Board Chair 2001-2006 .............................................................................. “[The AARC] will provide a place for all sorts of people with energy and vision to provide services and educate and entertain the Austin community, especially the Asian American community in Austin. It’s a really beautiful, spacious facility where if someone has the energy and spark to, say, help Asian immigrants with their various struggles, they could have a place to do that. If we wanted to put on a play about Asian American history or the struggles of Asian American youth, we can do it there. There are an infinite number of uses for it. It’s up to the imagination and drive of the community to use it.”
Irwin Tang Asian Texans: Our Histories and Our Lives author .............................................................................. “I am thrilled that the AARC is finally opening! This center will be an invaluable asset to the local Asian American community as well as the rest of Austin and beyond. I especially look forward to seeing the exhibits of which the Austin History Center took part and hope that visitors will learn about the history that led to our community having our place and our voice in Austin.” Esther Chung Asian American Community Archivist Austin History Center .............................................................................. “The Asian American Resource Center reflects the vision of municipal leaders in addressing the growing and diverse populations of Asians who call Austin home. A dream long cherished by Asian American communities and their representatives, AARC acknowledges the many contributions, but also the wideranging needs of this dynamic and heterogeneous group in providing civic, health, educational, and social services for families, elders, students, community organizations. Austin is fortunate to have such an active and savvy cluster of Asian American community leaders to shepherd the success of this important project.” Madeline Y. Hsu Director, Center for Asian American Studies Associate Professor, Department of History University of Texas at Austin
Cont. from pg. 8
Together with its community partners, the AARC nonprofit also hopes to host events to promote Asian American history and heritage, economic development and community resources. These proposed programs range from small business and pro bono legal clinics to diversity and leadership trainings, to history and art exhibitions. The Center also showcases rotating works by local and nationally recognized artists and historians. The nonprofit’s opening “Asian Texans” history exhibit features the work of historians Irwin Tang and Esther Chung, Sona Shah of the UT Center for Asian American Studies, photographers Mary Kang and Lizzie Chen, and AARC/UT-CAAS intern Tu-Uyen Nguyen. The exhibit, coordinated by the nonprofit and produced in collaboration with Center staff, functions as a unifying portrait of the diverse community. 10 TODO Austin // Sep 2013 // TODOAustin.com
“People will come in and see their stories and photos on the wall as part of a community family album,” Varghese said. In 2006, Austin voters approved a $5 million bond for the project. The Center also received $850,000 in two federal grants from the Economic Development Administration. The local Asian American community, primarily through the Network of Asian American Organizations and the Austin Asian American Chamber of Commerce, raised $30,000. Individuals within the community contributed more than $350,000 in pro bono services for the design of the Center. In total, the funding was enough to create Phase 1 (the current facility) of a three-phase master plan. Two additional phases were designed to include an Asian market and retail space as well as a performing arts center.
“We hope to grow our programs commensurate with the needs of the growing Asian American population,” Varghese said. “In the future, there is the possibility of physical expansion. We are actively discussing a Phase 2 to complement the current facility, which could potentially be a public or private development.” From classes to festivals to social services and international activities, there will be plenty of events at the Center every day. The AARC grand opening celebration on September 28 will offer visitors a chance to find out what it’s all about. On October 26, the AARC nonprofit will host a fundraising gala honoring Peter Bay of the Austin Symphony and architect Michael Hsu. More information is available through the AARC nonprofit Facebook page or the Austin Parks and Recreation Department Web site.
Celebrating Diversity
Luis Miguel FRANK ERWIN CENTER
Bridge2Bridge
TODO Arts
======================================
From Montopolis Bridge to 360 Bridge, Everything Austin
The theme of Austin Gay and Lesbian Pride Foundation’s PRIDE Week is “Love Unites.” PRIDE festival on Saturday, September 7, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at Fiesta Gardens, features two stages with music (including Erasure’s Andy Bell headlining), dance, fashion and more, plus notable DJs, games and activities, drinks, food, and booths supporting the LGBTQ community. austinpride.org “Facing East Exhibit” is a multimedia docu-arts exhibition of visual media. In this juried event, participants are pressed to capture a single 48-hour period in Austin’s historically-rich East End Cultural Heritage District. Opening reception for the 13th annual production is Saturday, September 7, at 7 p.m. at DiverseArts New East Art Gallery (1601 East 5th St., Suite 106). diversearts.org As a tribute to Astor Piazzolla, two of the best and most renowned young ensembles that have been influenced by his music gather at Bass Concert Hall on Wed., September 18, 8 p.m., to honor their great “maestro” in this U.S. premiere. Piazzolla Project: La Camorra & Escalandrum seating will be on stage, close to the artists, in this ArtesAméricas performance. texasperformingarts.org Legendary singer Luis Miguel will bring his “The Hits Tour” to the Frank Erwin Center on Wednesday, September 25, produced by DBC Events. The concert will be showcased in the Erwin Center’s intimate theatre seating set up. Known worldwide as one of the most acclaimed voices of his generation, Mexican singer Miguel started his career in the music business at age 11. His extraordinary voice, versatility in genres including pop, bolero, mariachi, Big Band and romantic ballads, and broad range of talents have made him one of music’s greatest icons and one of the world’s top-selling artists.
The Long Center presents “Menopause The Musical,” Saturday, September 21 (8 p.m.) and Sunday, 22 (3 p.m.). Set in a department store, where four women with seemingly nothing in common but a black lace bra meet by chance at a lingerie sale, the all-female cast makes fun of their woeful hot flashes, forgetfulness, mood swings, wrinkles, night sweats and chocolate binges. thelongcenter.org
Throughout his exceptional career, Miguel has released 21 albums, sold more than 60 million records worldwide, broken attendance records in each of his world tours and been lauded with five Grammy Awards as well as four Latin Grammys. Miguel is also the only Latin artist to have two Spanish-language albums (“Romance” and “Segundo Romance”) go platinum in the USA. Revered throughout Latin America, he is often referred to as “El Sol de México.”
Director John Ruffin presents “The Color Purple” in an all-new musical production at The Theatre at the Frank Erwin Center, Friday, September 27, at 8 p.m. This production of the hugely successful novel and Broadway hit features over 50 talented actors, singers, and dancers, as Montina Chrisp will once again electrify the audiences with her amazing choreography. uterwincenter.com
Tickets are available at all Texas Box Office outlets including select H-E-B stores, Ft. Hood LTS (until August 31), by phone at (512) 477-6060 or 1-800-982-BEVO (2386) or online at TexasBoxOffice.com.
A soul-stirring carnatic concert featuring vocalist Vidwan Sanjay Subrahmanyan, accompanied by Vidwan Varadarajan on violin and Neyveli Venkatesh on mridangam, is Sunday, September 22, 5 p.m. at St. Michael’s Catholic Academy (3000 Barton Creek Blvd.). The India Fine Arts event will be Subrahmanyan’s only concert in the eastern and southern states. austinifa.org
Experience the international musical phenomenon “Les Misérables,” up-close and personal, in the intimate Topfer Theatre, September 25-November 3. Soaring anthems, unbridled patriotism and the quest for redemption reveal the heart of a man who must leave his past behind to fight for life, love and liberty. Directed by Matt Lenz with musical direction by Allen Robertson. zachtheatre.org
BALLET AUSTIN’S “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”
LONG CENTER Get ready for the magic, mischief and mind-boggling mayhem of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” Ballet Austin Artistic Director Stephen Mills reanimates Shakespeare’s famously funny tale into an acclaimed masterpiece that’s at once seductive and silly, romantic and rollicking. Season opening performances are Friday-Saturday, September 13-14 (8 p.m.) and Sunday, September 15 (3 p.m.). Felix Mendelssohn’s enchanting overture sets the stage for this tale of young love gone awry thanks to the impish Puck and other mystical beings in a moonlit forest. Mills’ hilarious, inventive production earned critical acclaim and seven sold-out houses while on tour at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. Just an hour before each production, join Ballet Austin in the theater for a look at the final preparations for this magical production. See the last-minute workings of dancers and production crew and learn about the history, music, and artists involved in the production. Free for ticket holders. Hailed by Dance Magazine as “sleek and sophisticated,” and called “one of the nation’s best kept ballet secrets” by The Washington Post, Mills works closely with the company’s full-time professional dancers to make Ballet Austin one the most distinctive and dynamic outfits in the ballet community. Tickets for “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” start at $15. www.balletaustin.org TODO Austin // Sep 2013 // TODOAustin.com 11
The Howlin’ Lobo
First North American Chicha Summit Taking place in Austin for the first time on Saturday, September 14, Chicha Libre (Brooklyn), Money Chicha (Austin) and Chicha Dust (Tucson) will take to the Stage of Famoso, Flamingo Cantina, to play vibrant sounds from the late 60’s Chicha Movement. The style and sound started in Perú as a fusion of cumbia and rock with an electric psych twist.
By Lobo Corona
Alt. Latino Radio on Austin Airwaves On August 21, Austin radio listeners welcomed Alt. Latino Radio, featuring the ever-evolving world of Latin alternative and Spanish rock music on KUT HD channel 3 and online via the “listen” tab on KUTX.org and the KUT/KUTX mobile app. Alt.Latino Radio, produced by NPR Music and hosted by Jasmine Garsd and Felix Contreras, is an expansion of their free web-based service where the hosts examine the role of Latin alternative music in American and Latin culture, and connect listeners with influential Latin singers, athletes, actors and more.
Alt.Latino hosts, Jasmine Garsd and Felix Contreras. Photo by Yanina ManolovaNPR
Little Joe, Ruben Ramos, with Joel Guzman and Sarah Fox (L-R) on KLRU’s “Vamos al Baile.”
KLRU Celebrates Austin Latino Music Alt.Latino Radio’s arrival, coupled with programming at KUTX, KUT and Emmis Radio’s terrific new station, Latino 102.7, is the kind of activity we’ve been waiting for in Austin. Not to be outdone is KLRU, who will celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month with a one hour special featuring Little Joe y La Familia, Ruben Ramos and the Mexican Revolution, and Joel Guzman with Sarah Fox. Airing on KLRU, Thursday, September 26, at 8 p.m., “Vamos al Baile” (Let’s go to the Dance) was co-produced by Austin Tejano music advocate Leonard Davila. Also, don’t miss, “Arts in Context: Tardeadas,” on Thursday, September 26 at 7:30 p.m., as Conjunto Los Pinkys are cast in the spotlight. CentroAmericanto Fest CentroAmericanto Fest 2013 is a unique event that showcases Central American music and culture. The 5th annual fiesta is highlighted by appearances by Rialengo (Costa Rica), Frigüey (El
Salvador) and regional artists on Thursday and Friday, September 26-27 at Dougherty Arts Center, a free show on Saturday, 28, 4-9 p.m. at Zilker Park Hillside Theater, and Sunday, September 29 at Flamingo Cantina. Central American styles, food vendors, children activities, raffles, and more. See www.cacfest.com.
Lobo’s Bits of a Bite The Night Mothers at One-2-One Bar Alex Ruiz, lead singer of The Night Mothers, an all original rock Americana band based in Austin, will take over one of the best music venues on South Lamar, One-2-One Bar , on Thursday, September 12, 9:30 p.m. Shooting tunes from his guitar like a Carabina and delivering amazing tunes and lyrics along with his compadres, Alex recently collaborated with Carlos Santana, Mana, Los Lonely Boys and many other artists for a project in memory of Cesar Chavez.
Concert for Peace 2013 The Amala Foundation and Wobeon WorldBeatOnline teamed up to stage a Concert for Peace in Austin to mark the International Day of Peace on Friday, September 20, 6 p.m. at Vuka Coop (411 Monroe Street West). The concert features local and international musicians including Dylan Jones with the Anthropos Arts Collective, Sangeet Millennium with Sarangi Master Shri Pankaj Mishra, Ibrahim Aminou & Zoumountchi, Ali Pervez Mehdi with Major 7th, Atash, Zivanai Masango & Pachedu. For more info visit AustinPeaceConcert.com
Making Tracks Patricia Vonne “Rattle My Cage” Still basking in the glow from her highly lauded Montreaux Jazz Festival debut, Austin singersongwriter Patricia Vonne is ready to shake up listeners near and far with her new album, “Rattle My Cage,” being released September 10 on her Bandolera Records label. A release show is Saturday, September 14, at the Continental Club.
Jorge Najera, Claudia Gonzalez, Jorge Najera, Juan Ramos,Carla Najera, Luke, Michelle Torres (L-R).
Ernesto Rios and Leslie Montoya-Rios
HispanosNet Austin By Diana Sanchez
Franklin O Leal, Betty Betuchk, Luis Ramirez, Wendy Penagos, Melania Hernandez (L-R). 12 TODO Austin // Sep 2013 // TODOAustin.com
Noemi Gamas, Trini Martinez, Darcy Rojas, Alejandra Marquez, Yesenia Marquez, Edgar Lopez (L-R).
cari d a d
CASA
(Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Travis County
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT April Michaud is focused on education. While she originally moved from Fort Worth to Austin to attend UT, she is now getting her second Master’s degree and working towards her Doctorate in Educational Administration at Mary HardinBaylor. When not educating herself, she is teaching others at UT-University Charter School and plans on pursuing a career in Educational Leadership. April likes to spend her free time working out and shopping, though she also spends time writing articles on education and working on her dissertation. April started volunteering with CASA of Travis County in 2010 and has served six children during that time. While she was too young to volunteer when she first learned about CASA, April says she “instantly fell in love with
the organization” and signed up to volunteer as soon as she had finished her graduate degree and secured a fulltime job. “CASA volunteers are constant reminders to kids that despite their living situation, their family, their school, or any other concerning factors, someone in their life cares for them and will be there,” says April. While some children are born into tougher circumstances, April appreciates having “the opportunity to show them that this does not have to be the only world they ever know.”
TODO Austin // Sep 2013 // TODOAustin.com 13
SATURDAY, SEPT. 14
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”
september Line-up
Taco Bar
1412 S. Congress Avenue • Austin, Texas 78704 Open Weekdays 11am-11pm; Weekends 8am-11pm
----------------------------------------------------------------SUN 9/1 THE RECOUPERATORS (2:30) ALVIN CROW (6:30) ----------------------------------------------------------------WED 9/4 THE LARRY MONROE RADIO SHOW (6:30) THU 9/5 LOS FLAMES (6:30) FRI 9/6 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 9/7 EVE MONSEES (2:30) SON DE REY (6:30) SUN 9/8 BLUE MIST (3:00) ----------------------------------------------------------------WED 9/11 THE LARRY MONROE RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 9/12 THE FABS (6:30) FRI 9/13 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 9/14 JONAS ALVAREZ (2:30) THE TEXAS TYCOONS (6:30) SUN 9/15 MITCH WEBB & THE SWINDLES (3:00) ----------------------------------------------------------------WED 9/18 THE LARRY MONROE RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 9/19 PONTY BONE & THE SQUEEZETONES (6:30) FRI 9/20 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 9/21 LOS TIPICOS DE CUBA (2:30) EL TULE (6:30) SUN 9/22 LA VIDA BUENA (3:00) ----------------------------------------------------------------WED 9/25 THE LARRY MONROE RADIO SHOW (6:00) THU 9/26 KIKO VILLAMIZAR (6:30) FRI 9/27 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW (6:30) SAT 9/28 MC & THE MYSTICS (2:30) LARRY LANGE & HIS LONELY KNIGHTS (6:30) SUN 9/29 CHICKEN STRUT (3:00)
www.GuerosTacoBar.com
Join the Race against Child Abuse and Help Kids Grow Up to Be Superheroes
Tiny Taiga Condensation By Blake Shanley
Don’t be afraid to be great. Be afraid of being afraid to be great. Be afraid of being too afraid to actually be great. When you know deep in your guts and bones Great is exactly what you are meant to be. And to be anything but is simply not to be.
By Callie Langford
Superman was adopted. Spiderman was raised by his aunt and uncle. Batman grew up with his butler, Alfred, and later took in Robin to raise as his ward. Thor was kicked out of Asgard by his dad but eventually reunified with his family. Few superheroes grew up in a typical family situation raised by their own parents, yet they all accomplished great things as adults. CASA, a nonprofit that advocates for children who’ve experienced abuse or neglect, believes all children deserve the chance to grow up happy and healthy and become superhero adults themselves. That’s why the CASA programs of Travis and Williamson counties are hosting the 4th Annual CASA Superhero Run on Saturday, September 21, at Mueller Lake Park and Hangar. The run raises funds and awareness to provide children who’ve been abused or neglected with the powerful voice of their own CASA volunteer. Children in the foster care system with CASA volunteers are more likely to end up with family, more likely to receive therapy, health care and education, more likely to do better in school, less likely to be bounced from one place to another, and less likely to get stuck in long-term foster care than children without CASA.
The first year CASA held the Superhero Run, one little boy told his mom, “If abused kids see that other kids are superheroes, then they’ll know that they can be superheroes, too.” He’s right, and CASA volunteers help children who’ve been abused or neglected grow up and create those superhero moments for themselves. In spite of the many challenges these children have faced in their young lives, they can and do accomplish amazing things. They graduate from high school and go to college when it seemed impossible, bravely enlist in the military to serve our country, grow up to advocate for other children in the foster care system, and much more. While the cause is a serious one, this run is pure fun. This year, more than 2,500 local superheroes, runners, families and super dogs will run, walk or fly through the chip-timed 5K and adorable Kids 1K races. Beyond the race itself, the event
features a superhero costume contest, bounce house, superhero guest appearances and photo opportunities, tasty food and drink and lots more. Activities kick off early on September 21, starting with check-in and superhero activities at 7 a.m., the Kids 1K at 8 a.m. and the 5K around 8:30 a.m. Participants show up in every possible superhero form, ranging from superhero-styled running outfits to traditional Superman and Wonder Woman costumes, to totally original superhero characters. The costume contest recognizes these traditional and original categories, and even brings super dogs into the competition. CASA invites everyone to come out and support children who’ve been abused or neglected by donning your best cape, mask and utility belt and join us at Mueller Lake Park on September 21. Visit www.casasuperherorun.com to register, fundraise or donate today.
Don’t hide your self. Don’t hide from yourself. Don’t stand behind others so you don’t have to stand alone. When you know from your head down to your toes That your legs, head and heart are more than strong enough To carry you up mountains steep and through waters rough. Be the sun, the moon and the stars. Be the water, the rain, the fire, the wind. Be the entirety of the world of you within. You weren’t meant to shy, shudder or shield. You were meant to fly, flutter and wield. Don’t be afraid to be great. It is what you already are. And to be anything but Is simply not to be. 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.
Chronicles of Undercover Mexican Girl: Time Flies When You’re in Austin In last month’s column, I wrote about my road adventures to California. This month, I was going to continue with part two. But as I sat down to write, I realized that August was nearly over, and this particular month marks a significant anniversary for me. It’s been exactly fifteen years since I moved to Austin in August of 1998. Leaving Austin for nearly three weeks in July made me grateful to return to this quirky little town, but it’s true what they say – it’s changed. When I moved here after graduating from college with my then-boyfriend-now-exhusband, I really didn’t know what to expect. I had already ventured far away from my parents in Los Angeles by going to college in Pittsburgh, so I was used to strange and unfamiliar places. This one just happened to be extremely hot and humid, with frontage roads and lots of barbecue. I joined the Vortex Repertory Company, long before the days of the Butterfly Bar, during the era that spawned the infamous Rat Girl and the Uncle Cuddles and Spiccy the Clown Show. It was a time I was bold enough to play any kind of character on stage and attend parties that started after midnight. (Perhaps the latter
simply required that I was young enough to handle staying up late.) I did one theater show (“Blood Weddings”) with The Public Domain in a shanty loft space on 807 Congress Avenue, now a million-dollar-plus private residence.
| By Alexandra M. Landeros
Swing dancing in full vintage gear at The Caucus Club (now the Mohawk). Shopping for armoires at Rue’s Antiques or eating anywhere without having to wait more than 30 seconds on South Congress. When Lovejoys finally closed its doors, I knew I’d never have a reason to hang out in downtown Austin ever again.
As an apprehensive writer with the dream to either become a violinist or save the world, working as an administrative assistant at an art museum was extremely boring. While my then-boyfriend attended social mixers with computer programmers and engineers, I pursued the craziest people I knew and went on outings to places that no longer exist in Austin. Brave Combo at Liberty Lunch. Questionable, but delicious, Thai food next to Oscar Snowden’s TV & Appliances. Phish at Southpark Meadows, when it was still meadows.
When I moved here in 1998, I never imagined that I would still be here fifteen years later. But I’m still here. And I complain about losing all these great landmarks, and all the newly built places that are too cool for me, and all the people and the traffic, but yet, I cannot think of where else I’d rather be.
I hung out at the Scoot Inn when it was Red’s Scoot Inn, and you’d see the old compadres playing card games. I went to what was possibly the first “hip” place in East Austin – Cafe Azul (now vacant), with $5 appetizers and $1 beers and a backyard ambiance. To 503 Coffee on Oltorf, just west of Congress, before it was the Green Muse, which is now also gone. During my rock star days at Room 710.
Back then, I’d also heard Austin described as the “velvet rut.” Time has flown, and I still haven’t published a novel, become a violinist (although I can say that I performed live at the old Emo’s once with a band called Drug Free Disco Family), or saved the world. But I’m working from home now, sometimes in my pajamas, my mortgage is cheaper than the average rent, and I can still live most of my life south of “Town Lake.” So cheers to the next fifteen years! TODO Austin // Sep 2013 // TODOAustin.com 15
GRAND OPENING
ASIAN AMERICAN RESOURCE CENTER SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2013 8401 CAMERON RD. AUSTIN, TEXAS 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Join us in celebrating the City of Austin’s newest cultural destination, the Asian American Resource Center. The center will be welcomed in grand celebration with an official ceremony and ribbon cutting, followed by a lively street festival which includes: • • • • • • • •
Community Information Booths Family Activities Cultural History and Photo Exhibits Live Music and Cultural Performances Asian Fashion Show Complimentary Cake and Asian Desserts Local Asian Food Trailers Merchandise Vendors
This is an outdoor and indoor event, please dress accordingly. Limited parking and shuttle service will be available along Cameron Road. Please consider walking, carpooling or taking public transportation. 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) 974-6723.
For more information about the event, please visit our website at: austintexas.gov/aarc
A bilingual family play celebrating the power of words and friendship.
By Jose Cruz Gonzalez Salt’s family has a secret—his grandfather cannot read. Salt can barely read too, but his friend Pepper introduces him to the power of words. Together, they discover secrets about Salt’s family in a box of mysterious postcards.
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weekend Family ShowS: Sept 27 - oCt 20 Friday, September 27 | 7 p.m. Saturdays | 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Sunday, October 20 | 4:30 p.m. ZaCh’s whisenhunt Stage $14 Children (6 and up) • $16 Adults
Photo: AxelB Photography
School show information: zachtheatre.org/education/shows for schools
This project is funded and supported in part by a grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts and the City of Austin through the Cultural Arts Division believing an investment in the Arts is an investment in Austin’s future. Visit Austin at NowPlayingAustin.com.
zachtheatre.org
512-476-0541 x1
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