December 2017

STRONGER AUSTIN: PROMOTING EQUITY THROUGH HEALTHY LIVING

HEALTHY

2017 FACES OF EAST AUSTIN

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BE THE BRIDGE

Racial Reconciliation Starts with You.

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A Season for Reflection In life, there is a season for everything. There is a time to take, there is a time to give, and there is a time to reflect. With 2017 drifting into 2018, it’s so easy to assume that now is the moment to give. After all, it seems only natural that a gesture of goodwill now will set the right tone for the New Year.

“But what if,” I found myself wondering in yoga class after interviewing the fourth or fifth non-profit professional, “you instead choose to pause and reflect on the effort already given from those within your community?” (It sounds a bit cliché, but one’s mind tends to head down a rabbit hole when all you have to focus on is your breath.) I meditated for a moment on the exertion that many different groups put forth in their attempt to buoy families through their struggles. After spending hours speaking to individuals behind the curtain of these organizations, I felt as if ‘giving’ had been redefined. Sometimes, a gift can be as simple as offering a space for someone to be themselves. Many times, it’s an ear to listen.

After approaching the various non-profits for this issue, I reflected on the task that those who work in these organizations are given. Being asked so much and often offered so little with which to accomplish it, the dedication and ingenuity of these professionals has never failed to impress me. It is rare that free flowing benevolence is offered with no strings attached, but when you see it, you realize how precious something as simple as extending your hand to help can be; it is profound. Maybe it was because I had been speaking with the people who distributed kindness and help outside of the traditional “giving season,” but I was struck by how momentous their efforts seemed. Day in and day out, bridges are formed between individuals and resources, relationships are forged, and guidance is given. The more I spoke with non-profit leaders, the more I realized that, in large part, it was these organizations that were constructing and reinforcing the backbone of our community.

“And so,” I decided on an inhale, “if it really is a season of giving, why not give back and celebrate our community caretakers this year?”

Cheers, Jessi Devenyns

JEWELRY AND OTHER OBJECTS

On the Cover We were lucky enough to sit down with Andy Roddick and Richard Tagle to learn about their foundation and how they are impacing our community. While we were there, Eric Morales captured some of the interview and snapped a few beautiful portraits to which a cover was born.

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contents

48 Team Note

16 features 08 Be the Bridge

05

Local 08

The most pervasive form of racism is covert and subliminal; it's the root of overt violence and hatred. For Tasha Morrison of Be the Bridge, real justice and racial reconciliation come from addressing this racism and healing from the inside out. This local, faithbased organization is encouraging tough conversations and new understandings in a city with a history of barriers.

Art+Entertainment 11 Style+Beauty 19

26 Core of Community

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Why does education have to end at school?

For the Andy Roddick Foundation, the end of school is just the beginning. That idea is at the core of how the ARF works to fix a history of inconsistency and abandonment of afterschool programs within Austin elementary schools. This local nonprofit fosters emotional and social support for kids by encouraging their epiphanies and igniting their passions.

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“P

eople think Charlottesville was an isolated event,” says Tasha Morrison, activist, speaker, and founder of Austin faith-based organization Be the Bridge, “but people of color know terror when we see it.”

She’s referring to the August 12 event in which a white supremacist sympathizer rammed his speeding car into a group of anti-racist protestors in Charlottesville, VA, killing 32-year-old Heather Heyer and injuring 19 others.

“Charlottesville was an example of overt racism.

It was bold. No hoods. Nazi flags. They knew exactly what they were doing, so they can’t make excuses.”

While the event was horrific, what concerns this passionate advocate of “racial reconciliation” more is covert racism, which Morrison describes as “those subliminal systems of power and institutional prejudice” that not only allow tragedies like Charlottesville to occur, but actually incite them.

“Racism is not limited to racial slurs,” she says, “or the horrors of Jim Crow and lynching.”

(Horrors from which she is “just one generation removed,” she points out.) “Racism is also gerrymandering. Redlining. It’s living your whole life inside a racial bubble, where you never once come in contact with a person of color.”

Segregation, of course, is nothing new—and according to Morrison, it’s always been fed by the same primal emotion: fear. “Fear of not being the majority. Fear of losing power.

Fear that someone else will get what should be yours.”

It was over 50 years ago now that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. concluded in a speech at Cornell College, “I am convinced that men hate each other because they fear each other. They fear each other because they don’t know each other, and they don’t know each other because they don’t communicate with each other, and they don’t communicate with each other because they are separated from each other.”

Racial

Reconciliation

“You Can’t Heal What You Conceal” WORDS BY JESS HAGEMANN PHOTOS BY ASHLEY HAGUEWOOD

8 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

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If fear has its roots in separation, then exposure is the first step, followed by the type of mediated conversation that can only render ‘otherness’ obsolete.

Morrison founded Be the Bridge in 2015 with just three goals in mind: to facilitate healthy dialogue around the topic of race; to educate on disparity and injustice; and to evangelize “true

the country, Morrison has learned that, in general, “People want to be right. You don't know what you don't know,” she clarifies, “but I've seen people suddenly understand the truth and do the right thing.”

She remembers a white woman in Montgomery, AL whose deceased relative was a former Grand Dragon, a “real foot soldier of the KKK.” The woman wanted to understand her family’s past, so that the current generation of nieces and nephews would not repeat the hate. Morrison recalls, “But she was breaking the cycle. It’s not for you to feel shame or guilt about, but to own it, and say 'This was the story then, but this will be the story now.'”

As Morrison explains it, being a member of white culture historically meant owning all the resources, all the wealth. White families acquired their land through the Homestead Act—land that had been taken from someone else. “So even if you believe that you’ve worked for everything you have—and maybe you have,” she adds, “you’re still a benefactor of the past and responsible for how you wield your privilege today.”

That said, the issue is literally not so "black-andwhite," in the sense of simple or reduced. It’s the complex and long-standing “covert systems” that Morrison returns to time and again that she says make racism so insidious.

Biblical oneness” for the glory of God. “In Corinthians, we learn that Jesus came to give of his life. He died for our brokenness, to restore our relationship to God. That’s reconciliation, because it wasn't a deserved death. He didn't have to do that,” Morrison notes.

Reconciliation (of any type, but particularly racial reconciliation), explains Morrison, has three parts.

It starts with truth-telling.

“First, you have to name the barriers, the problems.

And you have to use the right terminology.” ‘People of color,’ for example, is a politically-correct term, but ‘people of the global majority’ is a more impactful one. “It’s meant to wake people up. White supremacists want to make a pureblood country, but they’re only the majority in America—not across the world.”

The second part is justice.

“White Americans want forgiveness without making things right. They put the onus for oppression on people of color, saying ‘You need to forgive,’ but forgiveness is not the same as reconciliation. There must be justice,” Morrison explains.

She points out how in Rwanda, a country whose tribal strife sparked a genocide, the Hutu people are making personal amends to the families of murdered Tutsis. “If you killed someone, and the family couldn't afford to buy a gravestone, maybe you're responsible for purchasing that. Restitution takes many forms, and is an essential part of justice,” says Morrison.

Finally, reconciliation means making sure it doesn’t happen again.

“You don’t see statues of Hitler in Germany. You see the preserved house of a Jewish family who died in the Holocaust. Their [Germans’] collective shame has inspired them to educate their young, so that the system will not be repeated. You can’t heal what you conceal,” she says.

When asked about the statues of Confederateleaning individuals removed from the UT campus last summer, Morrison agrees that relocating them to a museum was the right move. “Museums are for education,” she says, whereas, “Statues are for adoration.”

As soon as Morrison moved to Austin, she noticed it was “more racially segregated” than the integrated spaces she’d grown up. “I’d never met so many people who had never seen a person of color or who had no person-of-color peers. I’m educated, I didn’t grow up in the inner city … but white Austinites weren’t used to meeting professional African Americans, and so there was a barrier between our realities.”

Morrison found herself having more and more conversations with friends about her experience, until one suggested that she make a guide to help other people navigate racial literacy. Today, “Be the Bridge to Racial Unity” is available for download on the Be the Bridge website, and more than 600 discussion groups have formed in response across the U.S. and Canada.

During her countless speaking engagements around

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As African Americans fled the South during the Great Migration, they found they weren’t always welcome in the North, either. They were forced to settle in pocket communities like Detroit that had limited access to resources or were veritable food deserts.

“Now we just blame the people who were oppressed for the state their communities are in!” exclaims Morrison. Many look at a person of color and ask, “What’s wrong with you?” What’s wrong, she says, is that “the system is set up to open the door for you and close the door on me.” Certain Band-Aids like affirmative action were meant to offset some of that inequality, but as Morrison notes, “They couldn't even get it passed in Congress without making it about white women, too.”

Instead of treating the symptoms of racial inequality, then, “you have to heal it from the inside out—and you do that by tackling joblessness, lack of education, affordable healthcare … those things which make society better for everyone,” Morrison advises.

But it starts with dialogue—as “only when you bring people into the space of acknowledgment, can you pursue righteous relationships.” Be the Bridge helps start those tough conversations, ultimately fighting racism through “unity with one another.”

Morrison sums it up by saying, “We’re all the same.

There’s nothing different about you and I, just our outward shells. You're my brother, my sister, and I want to move forward with you.”

contact:

beabridgebuilder.com @beabridgebuilder eastsideatx.com

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Arts + entertainment December+ January 2017/2018

12 imagine art

A WELCOMING, INCLUSIVE, AND HEALING GALLERY SPACE MADE FOR A COMMUNITY

14 event calendar OUR FAVORITE

EASTSIDE EVENTS HAPPENING IN DECEMBER AND JANUARY.

16 enter-

"I wanted to personally access the arts. I had built a life surrounding myself with people with disabilities, and they were my safe place."

-Debbie Kizer p.12

tainment THIRD DIMENSION: SUPPORTING THE ARTISTS AT A LOCAL GALLERY

eastside / art

Art without Limits Imagine Art for Everyone WORDS BY ERIN MCWILLIAMS PHOTOS BY ERIC MORALES

Vibrant art covers the walls and tables of the Imagine Art gallery. Stepping into the colorful studio, one can expect to be greeted warmly by artists and volunteers alike. Among the art mediums offered by the studio are paints, ceramics, and mixed-media collage. To use the space, an artist must apply, interview, and present a portfolio; once accepted, they can take advantage of free supplies to begin creating endlessly.

12 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

find more at eastsideatx.com

On Exhibit EAST AUSTIN STUDIO TOUR: launched November 11 and is running through December 11.

ABSTRACT WORKS: A three-man show with Chris Schroeder, John Molina, and Carl Smith is on exhibit December 15 - January 8.

SEEING BEYOND WHAT'S REAL: will be on display from January 8-31, showcasing the collaborative surreal works of Lawrence Jolly, Daniel Davis, and Iain Neberman. The Artist Reception will be held on January 19, 6-8pm.

T

wenty years ago, Imagine Art’s founder Debbie Kizer could not have foreseen the transformation that her community art studio would undergo since its humble beginnings within a classroom. Now, Imagine Art resides in a spacious warehouse near East MLK. The energy of this space is different than most galleries; it is inclusive and relaxed.

Imagine Art is Austin’s only free, public art studio. Its purpose is to transform the lives of artists with disabilities by creating a place where they will lead to demonstrate the power of art to create an inclusive community that invites artists without disabilities. But, Imagine Art is more than just a studio; it offers unique services to disabled artists and their families who are choosing community-based services over segregated services. Kizer and her team creatively leverage public dollars, such as Medicaid, providing support services that empower these artists to thrive. Additionally, Imagine Art organizes art shows to sell the art produced in the studio. Artists receive 75% of the profits made by their art, significantly more than they would make displaying their art at most other studios.

Years before Imagine Art’s foundation, Kizer was diagnosed with a mental illness herself and dreamed of joining a community of artists where people with mental and physical disabilities were welcomed. “My main reasoning for starting the organization was that I wanted to personally access the arts,” she remembers. “I

had built a life surrounding myself with people with disabilities, and they were my safe place.”

After weighing her options, Debbie decided that she would forge her own way into the art world by creating her own inclusive community. She began by providing scholarships to artists with head injuries, helping them attend art classes in the community with her support that provided accommodations, like setting up their palettes and easel. Within the first year, her concept had grown significantly and has been growing and evolving ever since. Dreams don’t come easy though.

As a group primarily operating from earned revenue and government contracts, the price of space has always been a challenge. “We’ve operated out of my closet before,” explains Kizer. However, she is quick to offer that “God has always made a way for Imagine Art to thrive.”

Imagine Art has been at its Real Street location in East Austin for eight years and is ready to expand. They hope to eventually transition to a live-work community of artists who not only contribute art but also contribute by assuming responsibilities like gardening, cooking, and taking out trash.

This will provide an alternative to segregated living through a supported housing model that offers independent living with attendant care and support, while also promoting a sense of real community as artists live, work, and serve alongside one another. For Debbie, Imagine Art has been a place of healing and acceptance, and she hopes that expansion means it can be that for many others, too.

Did You Know? Art allows people

with disabilities to express themselves creatively when they might not be able to otherwise, and it is proven to increase self-esteem and communication skills.

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13

O U R FAV E E V E N T S

Pick 12

FOR THE EASTSIDE

&

DECEMBER JANUARY Cherrywood Gingerbread Workshops Art Fair

December 9-10, 10am-5pm The Cherrywood Art Fair is back for its 16th year! Check out artists featuring their jewelry, pottery, prints, and other goodies just in time for the holiday season. The proceeds for this event will support Maplewood Elementary and Chula League’s Little Artist BIG ARTIST mentorship program that pairs established Austin artists with East Austin elementary school students.

3808 Maplewood Ave. | cherrywoodartfair.org

Trail of Lights

December 9-23, 7-10pm Keep Austin bright this holiday season! This cherished local tradition features a fun run, live music, dozens of food & drink vendors, and over 2 million lights, all under the stars at Zilker Park. The event is free and open to the public through December 14, and December 15-23, cost is $3 which benefits the Trail of Lights Foundation. Zilker Park | austintrailoflights.org

December 9-24 ‘Tis the season to build a gingerbread house! Bring out the creativity in the kiddos with Thinkery’s gingerbread workshops.

Tickets include kits full of decorations and fresh gingerbread from La Mexicana Bakery. While you wait for the icing to dry, explore the museum and document the day at the Thinkery’s photo booth. Register online.

1830 Simond Ave. | thinkeryaustin.org

December 15, 6-10pm Head over to REVELRY for a holiday shopping experience! Enjoy locally-sourced music, makers, and more to embellish the holiday spirit while snagging some gifts. This market will feature all of your favorite local vendors and their wares. Free and open to the public.

3414 Lyons Rd. | thisisrevelry.com 14 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

December 24, 4:30 & 6:00pm Redeemer Presbyterian Church is featuring the Christmas story, carol singing, and classic music of the season by the Redeemer Choir. This event is patterned after the service held since 1918 at King's College in Cambridge, England.

Free and open to the public.

2111 Alexander Ave. | redeemerpres.org

#8 Holiday Market

December 16, 11am-5pm Austin School of Film is hosting a twist on traditional holiday shopping at a market full of goods from community businesses and artisans. Bring the whole family to celebrate creative vendors while you choose from locally hand-made gifts. Free and open to the public.

2200 Tillery St. | keepaustincreating.com

Worthwich Yule Ball

Eastside Holiday Market

Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols

December 16, 3pm-12am The Worthwich School of Witchcraft & Wizardry hosts their annual Harry Potter holiday ball at the Sterling Events Center. Come in your best dress-robes for a magical night of intoxicating potions, spellbinding music, and charming people. From 3-6pm, the ball is family-friendly, and from 7pm-midnight, you must be 18+.

Tickets range from $15 to $20. 6134 U.S. 290 Frontage Rd. | worthwich.com/owlery

find more at eastsideatx.com

Intro to Pyrography: Woodburning Workshop

January 11, 7-8:30pm Get your DIY on at Austin’s “allyou-can-make” creative hub, CRAFT. Try your hand at woodworking under the expertise of artist Celina Muire as she teaches pyrography for adult artists at any level. You’ll get to bring home your own woodburned works of art. Tickets are $37.89.

4704 E. Cesar Chavez St. | madeatcraft.com

Superhero Bar Crawl

January 19, 3pm-2am Warm up with Desert Entertainment’s superhero-themed bar crawl. The bar lineup will be announced on their website December 1. Tickets ($15 pre-sale and $20 for walk-ups) include a raffle ticket, discounts on food and drinks, and entry to the after-party.

Various locations | universe.com/austinbarcrawl

WORDS BY SAVANNAH WHITMER

Martin Luther King Jr. March & Festival

January 15, 9am-3pm Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the annual march and festival! The walk kicks off at the MLK statue on the University of Texas campus and heads toward Huston-Tillotson University, with a stop at the south steps of the Capitol. Enjoy festival-style fare and live music by local artists to celebrate community diversity. Marchers are invited to bring nonperishable foods, which will be donated to the Capital Area Food Bank.

900 Chicon St. | mlkcelebration.com

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January 15-Feb 15 Catch PrintAustin’s annual showcase of local artists’ work in various museums, art centers, and studios around the city starting January 15. Canopy, Flatbed Press + Gallery, and the Visual Arts Center will feature the community’s contemporary art. Free and open to the public. Various locations | printaustin.org

Margin Walker Presents: Jessica Lea Mayfield

January 20, 9pm Watch Jessica Lea Mayfield perform hits from her new EP, Sorry Is Gone at Barracuda. Margin Walker presents the country-rock artist paired with the opening folk band, Sun Seeker. Doors open at 9pm, and tickets are $15.

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eastside / entertainment

Translating the Third Dimension The Lost Perspective of Art WORDS BY JESSICA DEVENYNS PHOTOS BY ERIC MORALES

On the flat blacktop of a commercial complex, toy soldiers melt under the sunshine, and a muslin-wrapped figure soars skyward only to be bent in half by the weight of her majesty. Across the cement-covered stage, a small door beckons you to exit the garden and dive deeper into the multi-dimensional world of sculpture.

S

culpture, it turns out, is not the leaden, thoughtful creations of Bernini and Michelangelo that explored the dimensionality of the human body.

“Sometimes people think sculpture is some sort of bronze guy, but there’s a lot that can be done in sculpture,” Moya remarks, and Colin continues, “There are some works that are three dimensional that aren’t technically sculpture, like sound installation work or music and dance, which also rely on dimensional space.”

16 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

Moya McIntyre, who co-owns Dimension Gallery with her sculptor husband Colin McIntyre, elaborates on the ethos behind this unusual collection, “We’re not the only place showing sculpture; we’re just the only place dedicated to highlighting and exhibiting local sculptors.” In fact, around the country, outside of sculpture gardens, there are few places where three-dimensional artists can exhibit their work with the intention of selling it. Moya explains that this realization was the catalyst behind the couple’s decision to create find more at eastsideatx.com

a space exclusively for those artists’ exhibitions and to teach artists how to navigate the complex and bureaucratic grant-writing process.

Dimension Gallery’s unique body of work is a careful curation brought together by Colin and Moya during their resident artist selection process. Every two years, eight artists are selected to become a part of the Dimension Gallery where they are given a space to showcase their artwork while they are taught how to write grants. “I write one to three grants per artist the first year and then teach them how to write grants for themselves the second year,” explains Moya. These grants, she says, are the key to allowing artists to create art rather than do “bread-and-butter work.” Each grant affords an artist with a lump sum of $4k - $20k a year based on how they qualify.

In conjunction with improving their grant writing skills, Dimension Gallery’s artists spend eight months a year showing their work in 6-week intervals. “They work the gallery during their show so we don’t have staffing costs, and then if they sell any of their work, they make 100 percent of their sales during their solo shows,” adds Moya.

The Dimension Gallery

is open for exhibitions, as well as every Saturday, from 12-5pm. The current exhibition opened October 5 and is called Mimicry by blacksmith Colby Brinkman. This exhibition is his second and final show at Dimension Gallery featuring a resumed development of sculptures from his first, Hexapoda, which merged metal, carbon, and fire into creepily familiar and fantastic forms.

Outside of these solo shows, the other four months of the year are populated with shows by guest artists who exhibit alongside the residents. During these events, the gallery splits the commission from sales 50/50. Moya explains that this is just to keep the lights on. “The goal of the gallery is not to make money. It’s to support artists and share as much art and sculpture with Austin as possible.” Eventually, the gallery hopes to offer stipends to its artists so that they can be paid to exhibit their work outside of when they sell it. During these early stages, however, Moya explains that as artists helping artists, “It’s all about supporting the arts.”

contact:

512.479.9941 979 Springdale Rd., Ste. 99 dimensiongallery.org info@dimensiongallery.org @dimensiongallery

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

2017

Gift Guide

Bohemian Neck Scarf with Colorful, Handmade Medallions Ino Collection $38 4541 Ruiz St., Austin, TX 512.937.3466 • inocollection.com

The holiday season has arrived in Austin, and our amazing local shops are committed to making your shopping experience a smooth and enjoyable one. Here are a handful of fantastic finds.

"The Victorian Original” 5x7.5 Leather Journal with Bamboo Paper and Victorian-Style Hinge Iona Handcrafted Books $180 701 Tillery St., Building B3, Austin, TX 512.247.4700 • ionahandcraftedbooks.com

Custom-made Hollow Fabricated Cone Necklace in Sterling Silver with Oxidation and Magnetic Clasp Agnes Seebass $580, Austin, TX 512.568.8405 • agnesseebass.com

Pure Copper Moscow Mule Mug from 100% Recycled Sources (custom engraving available) APT•F Homewares on sale for $30 2505 E. 6th St. Unit E, Austin, TX 512.520.5869 • shopaptf.com

Illusion Table with Welded Steel Frame Base and Pecan Top from an East Austin Tree Gudde Co. $1,500 8200 Furness Dr., Austin, TX 512.632.1146 • guddeco.com

Handwoven Over-Dyed Cotton Maggie Pillow APT F. Homewares $140 2505 E. 6th St. Unit E, Austin, TX 512.520.5869 • shopaptf.com

18 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

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Style + beauty December+ January 2017/2018

19 versatile

fashion

CELEBRATING

INDIVIDUALITY THROUGH FASHION AND ART

24 beauty

in shave

AT A LOCAL BARBER SHOP, TRADITIONAL TECHNIQUES MEET INDIVIDUAL NEEDS.

Veronique Leroy Fringe Top: $680 Lizzie Fortunato Crater Earrings: $185 Rachel Comey Sonora Bootie: $450 All available at Kick Pleat

artin ALL

Forms WORDS BY SAM LAURON PHOTOS BY ERIC MORALES

Inspired by the Ai Weiwei Forever Bicycles sculpture, these looks capture the way fashion interacts with art; both are experimental and embrace individuality.

This season is all about pairing luxury pieces with more laidback styles like sportswear, western wear and Americana for a perfect marriage of high-low dressing.

Mixing and matching styles, adding versatile pieces, and playing with shape are all ways to experiment with fashion and find your own personal style.

“I always try to encourage consumers to experiment with their clothing, because I believe influencers should be recognized for their cleverness and innovation rather than their ability to buy the 'right thing' or follow arbitrary guidelines,” says stylist Ana Davidson. “I love how designers like Delfina Balda are encouraging experimental style by playing with asymmetry and building versatility into their pieces.”

Model: Sanetra Nere Longno @sanetrastew Stylist: Ana Davidson @anadavidson_

20 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

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Apiece Apart Lucia Wrap Dress: $385 Christian Wijnants Paisley Dress: $705 Rachel Comey Sonora Booties: $450 All available at Kick Pleat In God We Trust Simone Max Earring: $44 In God We Trust Simone Mini Earring: $36 Both available at Olive Austin

Anntian Simple Flower Dress: $615 Rachel Comey Sonora Bootie: $450 Lizzie Fortunato Dance Hall Earrings: $195 All available at Kick Pleat Mr. Larkin Pippa Top: $188 Delfina Balda Pau Pants: $336 Bing Bang Calder Earrings: $130 All available at Olive Austin

Rachel Comey Lure Pant: $368 Rachel Comey Revoke Top: $345 Rachel Comey Sonora Bootie: $450 All available at Kick Pleat

Rachel Comey Ivins Shirt: $483 Lizzie Fortunato Agate Necklace: $334 Both available at Kick Pleat Ganni Geroux Dress: $270 In God We Trust Simone Max Earring: $44 In God We Trust Simone Mini Earring: $36 All available at Olive

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eastside / beauty

A Close Shave traditional techniques for modern times WORDS BY SOMMER BRUGAL PHOTOS BY ERIC MORALES

When cofounders Chris Applegate and Michael Regino set out to open SHED Barber and Neighborhood Supply, they knew they didn’t want to be a traditional barbershop. While they aim to pay respects to the “old-boys,” they want their shop to represent where we are today.

T

he mix of old and new is visible in just about every corner at SHED. The shop’s clean, minimally styled, coastal interior is lined with murals, an element that was purposefully created to pay respect to its Holly and East Cesar Chavez neighborhoods. A full line of apparel sits at the entrance for customers to browse.

The space presents a stark difference from the often-darker décor one would find at a traditional barbershop.“All of [the traditional aesthetics] are awesome, but we wanted to take the traditional barbershop and move it with the times,” smiles Regino.

24 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

“We wanted to create something that was safe and welcoming to everyone.”

Despite the shop’s departure from the expected barbershop aesthetic, SHED does maintain and practice techniques employed by traditional barbers. Hot lather shaves, for example, include hot towels, pre-shave oils, face rubs, and after-shave products. Regino admits all these things are necessary for a successful shave.

Fostering relationships and encouraging new traditions is SHED’s ethos, and what sets SHED apart from other barbershops is the team’s attention to

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detail, from the services each barber provides to the time each spends with his or her customer. Regino's favorite aspect about his work is interacting one-on-one with whomever is in his chair.

Applegate says the team works to become a part of a customer’s ritual, as opposed to being a convenience or something one has to do. Both Applegate and Regino hope to show customers that there’s more to traditions than what they already know, that traditions can be whatever they want them to be.

“We realized that it doesn’t matter what [service] you come for, but if you come to SHED and have a great experience, talk to your barber, see a friend, you start making it a ritual,” said Regino goes on to explain, “and that’s going to be my new tradition.’”

While they’ve toyed with the slogan before, the duo is more certain than ever that for many SHED customers: “Tradition starts here.”

contact:

512.305.3915 2400 E. Cesar Chavez St. shedbarber.com @shedbarber

Kyōten Sushiko 4600 Mueller Blvd. Ste. 1035 | Austin, TX 78723 | (512) 888-7559

Dinner

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BRING IN THIS AD FOR UP TO 6 WEEKS FREE RENT! *Restrictions Apply [the healthy side of austin]

eastsideatx.com

25

At Andy Roddick Foundation, Education Begins After School.

WORDS BY JESSI DEVENYNS PHOTOS BY ERIC MORALES & COURTESY OF ANDY RODDICK FOUNDATION

“There’s been a history of leaving. People come in, they promise all of these things, and then they’re gone in a year or two.”

Texas bases its incarceration statistics off third-grade reading levels. So why do so many of our after school and summer programs seek to remedially reach children in middle and high school?

Naturally, this is a question whose answer is as fragmented as the resources received by the populations who make up this statistic. In Austin, however, Andy Roddick determined that this issue could be distilled down to a simple question, “Why not start at the beginning?”

Andy Roddick Foundation (or ARF), children are viewed as the core of communities where the continued reinforcement of their education and experience is the key to prosperity. The idea is not so much to intervene but rather to educate by bringing the world’s opportunities to children who are at risk of becoming no more than a hash mark in the government’s registry.

“Basically, we wanted to [begin impact] as early as possible so we [work with] pre-k to 5th grade. We wanted to [start] them early because we found that very few opportunities existed at the elementary level,” says Richard Tagle, CEO of ARF. Furthermore,

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By extending a menu of opportunities in which the children can immerse themselves, Roddick adds that he hopes to encourage epiphanies where kids think, “I’m good at this, it makes sense, I feel good about myself because I’m good at this.” out of the 187 programs that do exist for students, “When you look at Austin’s Eastside, there’s really just two big [after school] programs,” he laments. The only two programs available run through Austin Parks & Recreation Department and the Boys & Girls Club, which have proven their commitment to a long-term investment in our community and which the ARF holds as examples of exemplary out-of-school education efforts.

Needless to say, it was an easy decision to jump in and help, but the question was, “How? Do you go really deep with hundreds of kids or do you sprinkle dust over thousands of kids?” muses founder Andy Roddick. Although Roddick notes that it’s “a lot easier to sell” the idea of casting your net of resources widely, the ARF chose “to go deep” and strive to form impactful and meaningful relationships with each child they encounter. However, to weave themselves into the fabric of the community, the question still remained, “Where do we start?”

In the end, the answer was the simplest solution. The ARF decided to invest in the programs that already existed to bolster that which was familiar in the neighborhood, rather than duplicate the efforts. Unsurprisingly, they decided to forge a partnership with Austin Parks & Recreation and Austin Independent School District.

Harris Elementary was the first school that came on board, followed by Pecan Springs Elementary, and next summer Hart Elementary will be the third partnership pursuit. The latter two schools were selected because they had finished their cycle of 21st Century Community Learning Centers grants, and “there were challenges with what to put there,” according to Tagle. Although the ARF was willing to step in and offer programming, Tagle says, “It’s not as easy as it sounds. When we originally introduced this idea of school partnerships, we went to a handful of schools…and it’s not always an open door.” Nevertheless, through persistence, Roddick says that they were able to translate their desire to offer programs with lasting impact into a reality.

By 2020, Andy Roddick Foundation hopes to be partnered with 5 schools and serve 3,000 kids daily in East Austin.

day, which multiplied by 365 days, those hours can make a significant difference in a family’s future.

“One of the stats that blew my mind was that they project jail capacity in the state of Texas based on third grade reading levels.”

Roddick elaborated that the foundation doesn’t strive to merely open children’s eyes to the wealth of occupational possibilities that they can pursue. “We’re problem-solving more than just enriching a child’s life and educating a child. It’s a support system for the entire family,” he explains. With both their after school and summer programming, parents can work 3 to 4 hours longer every

28 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

During after school hours and summer programs, kids are introduced to sushi making, pottery, and opera as well as offered athletics courses, academic support, and social/emotional enrichment to help them discover their passion.

By extending a menu of opportunities in which the children can immerse themselves, Roddick adds that he hopes to encourage epiphanies where kids think, “I’m good at this, it makes sense, I

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21st Century Community Learning Centers Program grants were established by Congress to award grants to rural and inner-city public schools in need of extra learning centers that provide academic enrichment opportunities during non-school hours for children. They are the only federal funding source dedicated exclusively to after school programs.

feel good about myself because I’m good at this.” However, Roddick admits that this message can be difficult to convey to parents conditioned to view college as the natural path to success. In reality, a good indication of success comes from the curiosity cultivated within children at a young age. “It’s exposing them to different opportunities as well as creating an unbelievable base foundation in tech literacy, financial literacy, and dabbling in STEM. I think that you should try to cultivate the entire child,” Roddick remarks.

Tagle describes that coupling this buffet-style approach with the Foundation’s strong focus on social/emotional learning – a push from AISD superintendent Dr. Paul Cruz – is what allows their programming to seamlessly compliment that which the children experience during school.

But, even the best laid plans can be for naught without consistency.

In particular, Roddick laments that many East Austin schools have suffered greatly from a pattern of unpredictability in out-of-school education programs. “There’s been a history of leaving. People come in, they promise all of these things, and then they’re gone in a year or two,” he says matter-of-factly. The ARF, on the other hand, makes consistency their number one priority. For those who work there, consistency is synonymous with quality. Tagle elaborates on this philosophy, which he simply refers to as responsibility. “As long as we are producing the outcomes that help the students, their families, and the schools, we’ll continue.” In their current model, the Foundation solidifies partnerships for 3-year terms which have an option to be renewed indefinitely.

By 2020, ARF hopes to be partnered with 5 schools and serve 3,000 kids daily in East Austin. Currently, there are 1,500 kids benefiting from their out-of-school programming. Whether at one of the three partner elementary schools or among the 11 different sites that ARF runs with Austin Parks and Rec, the quality of the foundation’s programs are readily apparent. From training to curriculum to measurement Tagle explains that the design of the out-of-school programming is methodically crafted to complement the context in which it is offered.

As an avenue of discovery for children, ARF strives to lead by example but similarly be a good partner to its supporting institutions.

Although Roddick believes that this is the most thorough methodology to ensure long-term success for the children the foundation serves, he admits it’s not always “sunshine and rainbows.”

MUSIC EVENT COMING FEBRUARY 2018

Nevertheless, the rewards are clear, although they don’t necessarily come from the expected source. According to Roddick, the best conversation he had was at Pecan Springs last year when a 30-year veteran janitor walked by and noted, “I’ve been here a long time, and I’ve never seen this place the way it is the last couple years. I’ve never seen the impact; I’ve never seen the kids happier; I’ve never seen it as organized; I’ve never seen the kids stop and say ‘hello’ as much as they are.”

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"That unsolicited conversation," admits Roddick, is how he knows that this work is not only changing children’s outlooks but also sending ripples through the community to create a more supportive, cohesive environment for everyone involved in enriching the children who are at the core of this community.

contact: (512) 298-1960 8509 FM 969, Bldg. 509 arfoundation.org @thearfoundation

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WHAT PROGRAMS WILL STRONGER AUSTIN PROVIDE? • Expanded Outof-School Time • Fitness Classes • Nutrition/Cooking Education Classes • Activity Groups • Some fitness classes and walking groups will be implemented before the end of the year, but expansive programming will begin in the first quarter of 2018.

Stronger People =

Stronger Communities

PROMOTING EQUITY THROUGH HEALTHY LIVING WORDS BY JESSI DEVENYNS PHOTOS BY ERIC MORALES

In the world of public health, the social determinants of health form the heart of almost any discussion. Where do you come from? What do you earn? How do you access your food? Why are you not as healthy?

Although this is a dialogue that can exist outside the day-to-day life of most citizens, unfortunately, many still find themselves mired in this discussion.

30 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

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K

imberly McNeely, the director of the Austin Parks and Recreation Department, explains how our city arrived at this junction. “The City of Austin found out last year that there was a higher rate of disparity than in many other cities across the country.” As a result, a resolution was passed by City Council that created the Equity Office which oversees new initiatives coming into Austin with the intention of suturing the divide. With this political push for citywide equity setting the stage for newcomers, Stronger Austin found itself perfectly suited to unfurl its plan to offer accessible fitness and nutritional programming in Austin’s underserved neighborhoods.

Although this initiative is still in its infancy, Stronger Austin is already looking to expand the number of individuals whom they can serve with their programming which includes expanded out of school time, fitness classes, nutrition and cooking classes, and activity groups. However, to do so, Harrell explains that it is necessary to spend more time canvassing the various East Austin communities and having discussions about how each neighborhood wants to build their fitness programming. Currently, Harrell says that there are four key components to every class they will offer: free of charge, relevant for all ages and fitness levels, within walking distance of the neighborhood, and bilingual.

In East Austin, which is historically and geographically broken up by pockets of inequities, “We want to see increased physical activity. We want to see improved nutrition. We want to see decreases in the prevalence of preventable chronic disease,” states Baker Harrell, the CEO of It’s Time Texas and co-founder of Stronger Austin. To do this, Harrell says that durable changes to a person’s health must begin by altering a community’s mindset about the importance of collective health. “At the end of the day, you cannot have a thriving community if the entire community is not healthy, and you cannot have a healthy community if it’s inequitable,” he reminds us.

Despite the potency of having communities design their programming individually, McNeely laments, “Now we have more work to do.” Nevertheless, she explains that the weight of the tasks is lightened through partnerships with Austin Parks and Recreation, My Brother’s Keeper, It’s Time Texas, and the University of Texas School of Public Health, who make it easier to accommodate a wide range of requests. Often requests revolve around opening under-utilized school gymnasiums, parks, recreation centers, and churches to participants in the Stronger Austin initiative.

To help ensure effective and healthy change within East Austin communities, Harrell has recruited partners from across the city to help form Stronger Austin.

“We want to impact [health inequities] in a very deliberate and methodical way, and Stronger Austin with its focus on health, nutrition, and fitness with the community being fully engaged in that process was a perfect way for us to begin to move the needle on those disparities that we know exist,” McNeely adds.

Using these centrally located centers where everyone is welcome on equal footing is how Stronger Austin is injecting a strengthened sense of community into their fitness initiative. “It’s not just about getting healthy, but it’s about a sense of community that’s now being created in these different park areas,” summarizes McNeely. Harrell adds that when you activate centers that are familiar to those within a community, people are more likely to engage and attend programming. Plus, he says that when you’re able to go with your neighbors, “you now have a group of people from your community with whom you can engage in these new activities on a regular basis.”

“Who does not want to have a sense of belonging?

Who does not want to be a part of a group that is doing something exciting and fun?” McNeely challenges. When these requirements are met, the result is consistency. “And that’s why we’re so focused on group classes instead of one-on-one, because it is the social support component that really determines at the end of the day if someone is going to maintain a behavior or a lifestyle,” continues Harrell, who explains that long-term commitment is the critical piece that is currently missing from the equation.

With steepled fingers and a pause in his monologue, Harrell concludes that the only way to revitalize community health is to start taking small steps down a long road. He states gravely, “This is an issue we all need to care about, because we all have a stake in the future of this community.”

CONTACT: strongeraustin.org @strongeraustin itstimetexas.org

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Special advertising section

side

2017 THE REFRESHING

OF AUSTIN

FACES of EAST Austin

Year round, EASTside Magazine writes about notable individuals and groups in business, education, medical, and nonprofit arenas. Once a year, we plan to introduce you to the dozens of folks who work behind the scenes in making East Austin a vibrant, creative, diverse, and compelling place to live, eat, drink, work, and play.

We are fortunate to have so many entrepreneurs and business professionals whose talents, expertise, and creativity have a positive impact on our community. EASTside Magazine invites you to meet some of the faces behind our local businesses. They are leaders in their field. they are game-changers. they are the faces of East Austin.

Photos by Eric Morales, Thamica McCook, and Ashley Haguewood

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2017 THE BRIGHT

OF AUSTIN

FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

Traditional Japanese Cuisine Chef Kazu Fukumoto & Team Welcome to Fukumoto Sushi & Yakitori Izakaya

Fukumoto is a Japanese izakaya specializing in traditional Edomae sushi, while also pioneering the introduction of yakitori to Austin.

Grilling delicious skewers over searing hot white oak binchotan (charcoal) and serving only the freshest fish prepared with care and love, Fukumoto channels the Japanese tradition of integrating art

into nourishment. This restaurant challenges themselves to engage your taste buds, eyes, and stomach in an experience rather than an exercise in sustenance. Here, meals are often served gradually over several courses, and the impressive selection of Japanese saké and beer offers a wide variety of pairing options. The menu and changing specials highlight seasonal, local ingredients as well as fish sourced daily from Japan’s Tsukiji market and all over the world.

Located in eclectic East Austin, Fukumoto offers a unique dining experience for those both new to traditional Japanese cuisine and the experienced eater. Led by Chef and Owner Kazu Fukumoto, the team at Fukumoto strives to share their passion with Austin.

Fukumoto is open Monday through Saturday for dinner. Reservations can be made by phone.

www.fukumotoaustin.com | (512) 770-6880 | eat@fukumotoaustin.com 514 Medina Street, Austin, Texas 78702

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2017 THE BRIGHT

OF AUSTIN

FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

PROVIDERS YOU CAN TRUST DANIEL J. LEEMAN, MD Kenneth L. Taylor, PA-C Brandee Richardson, AuD, CCC-A Welcome to the office of DR. Daniel J. Leeman

Proudly serving the Austin area for the past 18 years, Dr. Leeman is dedicated to providing the personal care and expertise you deserve utilizing state of the art equipment. From the first visit, you will be treated like a valued patient by their friendly and highly skilled staff.

Dr. Leeman is double board certified in Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and Otolaryngology/Head & Neck Surgery. As a Double Board Certified physician, his added level of expertise in

facial rejuvenation, using both surgical and non-surgical procedures, provides excellent outcomes for every patient. Dr. Leeman performs in office procedures such as balloon sinuplasty to help patients who suffer from sinus and allergy problems. Additionally, he addresses concerns with snoring, sleep apnea, headaches, thyroid disorders, and pediatric ENT disorders.

Dr. Leeman works closely with his Physician Assistant, Kenneth L. Taylor, PA-C, who prides himself on dedicating his undivided attention to each and every patient. Dr. Leeman also works with his Audiologist, Brandee Richardson, Au.D., who is committed to helping patients of all ages overcome communication barriers. Dr. Richardson provides comprehensive hearing evaluations, hearing instrument consultations and services, hearing protection, and balance assessments.

Dr. Leeman takes a whole person approach to your evaluation and treatment plan. He and his staff look forward to not only improving their patient’s primary concern but desire to also improve the quality of life for each of their patients. Dr. Leeman and his staff are committed to 100% patient satisfaction and live by the belief that their patients are a big deal to them.

www.drleeman.com | (512) 478-2273 | 3607 Manor Road, Suite 101, Austin, TX 78723

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2017 THE BRIGHT

OF AUSTIN

FACES of EAST Austin

The Faces of

Argentinian Culture Paola & Team Welcome to Buenos Aires Café, Esté

It all began in 2005 when Chef Reina’s love of food and wine spilled out of her home and into Austin as she opened the doors of Buenos Aires Café on South First. Then in 2009, they made the move to open Buenos Aires Café, Esté. Built on the love of sharing

grandmother's recipes for empanadas, pastel de papas, and milanesa and showcasing small-production wines from family-owned Argentine vineyards, for twelve years, Buenos Aires Café has stood among the community welcoming passersby with much more than a cup of coffee and a bite to eat. Like any true Argentine café, Buenos Aires Café has become a social meeting place and a venue where culture is expressed through food, art, music, and even literature. With the addition of the Milonga Room and its performance space, guests are continually re-introduced to Argentine culture but reinvented to fit in with the local community and the Texas landscape. Buenos Aires Café has two locations in Austin.

www.buenosairescafe.com | (512) 382-1189 | 1201 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702

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2017 THE BRIGHT

OF AUSTIN

FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

Luxury Real Estate Justin Pistorius, Realtor Welcome to Local Life Realty

Justin opens the door to a life of possibilities when you step into a home. In a city where there is as much architectural variety as there are opinions, Justin has fostered longstanding relationships with East Austin builders so that he can individually pinpoint his clients’ needs and direct them to a new build firm that will fulfill their expectations.

Regardless of your familiarity with East Austin real estate, the question everyone wants to know the answer to is, “Where is the next development going to go?” Although most aren’t privy to which grass lot will grow into a family home, Justin is. Approaching home buying from this perspective allows Justin to customize his home searches and transform your journey into a comprehensive and educative experience. With a specialization in the 78702 and 78704 zip codes – the only accessible urban core real estate available nationwide – Justin humanizes the fast-paced Austin market by opening up quiet avenues to access new, off-market construction. And because these homes have yet to be set in stone, Justin’s clients become stewards of the land, left to cultivate the home that they envision living their life in.

www.localliferealty.net | (512) 840-0194 | justin@localliferealty.net 2931 East 12th street, Austin, TX

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2017 THE BRIGHT

OF AUSTIN

FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

Commercial Real Estate DeLea Becker & Team Welcome to Beck-Reit Commercial Real Estate

DeLea Becker and her team at Beck-Reit Commercial Real Estate are providing East Austin with a full-service brokerage firm specializing in all areas of the commercial market. Beck-Reit Commercial boasts a tight-knit and seasoned collection of Brokers with overlapping and complementary skill sets and experience allowing the company to offer quality specialty level consulting for landlords, tenants, sellers, and buyers of commercial real estate.

Paired with their in-house property management branch, Beck-Reit Asset Management, Beck-Reit is a true partner to property owners. Beck-Reit’s agents are always working to help clients grow business and build wealth. Their experts, like V. Bruce Evans, can conduct a host of market analyses intended to uncover the best real estate decision for any small business situation. Experience in the fields in which their clients participate—development, adaptive reuse, property management—allows agents like Craig Primozich to advise clients on several fronts related to their real estate needs. As informed and experienced consultants, Beck-Reit Commercial marries decades of combined market experience with a “Boots on the Ground” approach to business, one that has proven results for clients looking to grow business in expanding markets like East Austin. www.BeckreitCRE.com (512) 472-8833 DeLea@beckreit.com 2131 Theo Drive, Austin, TX 78723

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2017 THE BRIGHT

OF AUSTIN

FACES of EAST Austin

The Faces of

Design-Build Architecture

JOSE MINGUELL, architect Laura McQuary, architect Welcome to MINGUELL-McQUARY, LLC

Not many architects live and play where they work.

However, for Laura McQuary and Jose Minguell, their neighborhood often becomes their inspiration.

For them, East Austin is a richly creative and entrepre-

neurial environment with an innovative culture, which they strive to enhance with each building they introduce into its urban landscape. As they are a Design-Build Office, the duo can merge their clients’ needs and budget into a built piece of architecture that is able to fulfill the clients' dreams while simultaneously connecting it to the environment and the city as a whole.

When it comes to design, a building is not just an object for all to admire. For this couple, each space they design includes environmental, sustainable, local, and vernacular solutions that are essential part of their signature elegance. For Minguell-McQuary, the architecture should simply provide a functional background, an enhancement of the site, and seamlessly support the client's everyday life or business needs.

www.minguell-mcquary.com | (512) 865-8782 | 702 San Antonio St., Austin, TX

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2017 THE BRIGHT

OF AUSTIN

FACES of EAST Austin

The Faces of

Farm-to-Table Cuisine Sara Smith, Front of House Sonya Cote, Chef + Owner Kaycee Braden, Project Manager Welcome to Eden East

On a five-acre farm two miles east of downtown, a wizened oak spreads its welcoming arms over a dozen communal tables.

Chickens cluck softly, and children’s feet rustle the hay as they wander around the outdoor dining space.

Eden East is a farm-to-table restaurant with an intimate connection to the land. For them, farm-to-table is a title earned by being a part of the elements, changing with the seasons, cultivating a menu based on the harvest. Every blistering hot day and overcast sky influences the dishes served that night. Sonya, the chef behind the fare, however, welcomed the inconsistencies of nature and created Eden East as a way to reconnect with the life within the land by using dishes to chronicle the bounty of the growing season.

Particularly in East Austin where there is a long history of urban farms, the legacy that Eden East perpetuates is as rich as the soil in which many of Eden East’s vegetables grow. Through its menu, chefs and farmers are kept together in conversation as they work to nourish the community and cultivate the lifeblood of our society.

Eden East offers a seasonal pre-fixe dinner menu Fridays and Saturdays from 7–11pm and every third Thursday of the month from 6–9pm where one can order from an a la carte menu and enjoy complimentary cocktails. Wednesdays and Saturdays counter service is offered during Springdale Farm market from 9am–1pm. Private events are also hosted by the crew. Alcoholic beverages are a welcomed accompaniment but must be BYOB. www.edeneastaustin.com | (512) 428-6500 755 Springdale Road, Austin, Texas 78702

sd ie

2017 THE BRIGHT

OF AUSTIN

FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

First-Time Homebuyers Sal Abukhalil, Realtor Welcome to Austin Craft Realty

Sal Abukhalil prides himself on two things: cultural versatility and understanding the needs of Austinites in transition. This tri-lingual (including Spanish) Texan relocated to Austin to pursue a music career but soon found himself habitually extolling the city’s culture. It wasn’t long before Sal put his trustworthiness and love for Austin to work by obtaining his real estate license, and he situated himself at the pinnacle of the industry pyramid as one of the top agents at Austin Craft Realty.

As an Eastsider himself, Sal has developed relationships with many of the apartment complexes and home builders in the area to offer his clients sneak-peek access to deals before they even hit the market. As primarily an apartment locator, Sal offers his clients his insights free of charge but finds that he often develops long-standing relationships where he evolves with his clients, advising them as they mature from first-time apartment renters to first time home-buyers. www.AustinCraftRealty.com M: (817) 680-0288 O: (512) 649-1010 sal@austincraftrealty.com 2124 E. 6th St. #101, Austin, TX

side

2017 THE BRIGHT

OF AUSTIN

FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

South American Bakery & Café Elena Sanguinetti & Gladys Benitez Welcome to Café Nena’i

Raised on a farm in Paraguay, filled with fresh food and handformed pastries, Elena rolled her memories into every meal she made for her daughter. Born into this culinary passion, Gladys knew that she would one day share her love of her mother’s Paraguayan cooking with others. Over the years, her deep-rooted passion for flavor only intensified as she grew up amid the melting pot of South American culture in Miami. When she left for Austin, she came with the desire to share this spice of life in her back pocket.

After discovering a penchant for business and marketing during her time at the University of Texas, Gladys knew she wanted to build something unique. As she was approaching graduation, she sat in the car with her mother, Elena, and asked her what her dream was. The talented chef responded that she dreamed of introducing a South American café-restaurant into Austin to bring the flavors of her childhood to Texas. Thus was born Café Nena’í. With their hallmark flair for good flavor and engaging conversation, Gladys and Elena fill both their food and their café with the flavor and creativity of South America as well as the love that flows between mother and daughter.

Café Nena’í is open Tuesday-Friday, 7am-5pm and Saturday-Sunday, 8am-4pm. Follow Café Nena’í and Gladys on instagram: @CafeNenai @GladysBenitez.

WWW.CAFENENAI.COM | (512) 840.9066 1700 Montopolis Drive Ste. A, Austin, Texas

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2017 THE BRIGHT

OF AUSTIN

FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

Stylish Window Coverings Kristin Schumann, Brian Quick, and Team Welcome to Budget Blinds of East Austin

It’s incredible to think that 110 people wedge their way into Austin everyday, all trying to find housing. If you look around, however, you’ll realize that they are indeed managing. Suddenly, dozens of new windows are scattered throughout our community allowing a glimpse into the lives of these businesses and families. For many Austinites

though, this unopposed view into their lives is unwelcome. Thankfully, Budget Blinds took notice.

Although the modern aesthetic of high, clean windows is in vogue, there is no reason that you can’t stylishly and effectively cover those big beautiful openings. Particularly in a climate where sixty percent of our days are filled with sunshine, window coverings are a pragmatic home accent that help achieve an energy efficient and beautiful living space.

With hundreds of product offerings and industry leading warranties, you can rest assured Budget Blinds has the right product for your style and budget! From businesses to bungalows, the 5 folks—Kristin, Brian, Kit, Katherine, and Paula—who helm this local window covering design shop will walk you through every step making sure that what ends up on your windows is exactly what you described during your design consultation. They’ve got you covered from consult to install to warranty. These folks will make sure your window treatments fit your style and needs, and for those who want a total smart home, Budget Blinds has the capability to integrate your window coverings!

www.budgetblinds.com/eastaustin | www.inspireddrapes.com | (512) 900-8299

side

2017 THE BRIGHT

OF AUSTIN

FACES of EAST Austin

The Face of

Fitness

Ryan & Romy Parzick Welcome to Fuerte Fitness Ryan and Romy met as college athletes at Carnegie Mellon University in 1996 and have been together ever since. In 2012, they moved with their two kids back to Romy’s home state, landing in East Austin. New to town, they looked for a fitness option that would allow them to stay physically active and challenged, meet new people, and become part of a community – all aspects of playing sports that they love. Not finding a place nearby that felt just right, they embarked on a new adventure to open their own fitness studio.

Fuerte Fitness was born August 2014, built on their shared passions to help others, be inclusive, and foster a healthy community. Ryan and Romy want Fuertitos (their term of endearment for members) to have fun.

After all, why should working out feel like a chore?

Having fun means access to a wide variety of class options with ever-changing workouts. It means enjoying ten different class formats in a small group setting with personal attention. It means being constantly challenged, but not pressured. It means wearing whatever you want while working out. It means the scale or your one-rep max doesn’t define your success. Come as you are – everyone is welcome at Fuerte. www.iamfuerte.com (512) 920-2348 fuertefitnessatx@gmail.com 4631 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78751

Dinner | Breakfast | Events

www.edeneastaustin.com

Breakfast + Farmstand

Wednesday & Saturday 9a-1p

Dinner Service Friday & Saturday 7p-11p

For Holiday Events + Gatherings, email sara@edeneast.com

755 Springdale Road

MATH.

Yes, we find it fun. www.agruedabookkeeping.com alitca@agruedabookkeeping.com | (512) 963-9387 | 46 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

agruedabookkeeping101 |

find more at eastsideatx.com

agruedabookkeeping

Godo+

December+ January 2017/2018

48 go give TAKE A SEAT, GIVE

THANKS, AND SERVE UP A HEALTHY DOSE OF COMPASSION AT ONE OF THE

"It sounds weird to say, but now I actually get excited to know someone and their need. I know a table full of people who want to help." p.48

COMMUNITY'S GENEROSITY DINNERS.

50 social

hour

OUR FAVORITE EVENTS HOSTED BY EASTSIDE PEOPLE AND PLACES

54 perform-

ing arts

LET SOMEONE ELSE TAKE CENTER-STAGE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH A GUIDE TO THE CITY'S BEST UPCOMING PERFORMANCES.

eastside / go&do

A Generous Helping Dining with Purpose WORDS BY IESHA BOITMANN PHOTOS BY ASHLEY HAGUEWOOD

Monthly generosity dinners in Austin gather people to pour wine, pool money, share stories, and meet needs.

F

riends passed the plates, poured the wine, and began their monthly conversation of who to help. While this same group of people have gathered around the same table for a while, one dinner guest nearly dropped her fork as she realized her sister had been in financial trouble, and she had never thought to share.

48 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

As a single mom, Wendi’s sister had fallen behind and was saving up to repair some basic necessities in her home. As Wendi shared the story, everyone at the table realized there were people close to them with similar stories; there just wasn’t a practice of acknowledging them. It was that night the group saw the meaning of the dinners they had been participating in: to break the stigma of needing help, not just for themselves, but for the people they loved. That night, Wendi’s sister received an anonymous check in the mail, but more importantly, she knew she was not alone.

Right here in Austin, this group has been keeping the rhythms of monthly dinners for over three years, but the hope is that they will be new to neighborhoods and kitchen tables around the city. Over time, they have experienced firsthand the value of practicing awareness for the needs around them. “When we started doing the dinners, we spent 4 months around a table lamenting the fact that we didn’t know anyone in need, and then we realized we weren’t asking our friends how they were actually doing,” dinner host, Brian Boitmann, reminisces. Brian and his wife equip dinner hosts to facilitate dinners in their own homes. Some hosts are a part of their church, but many are people passionate about untidy, complex, and authentic community. Typically 8-12 people, every dinner is unique to the people attending, and the

find more at eastsideatx.com

“Sharing is rooted in belonging and knowing that I’m not alone.

Every time I give, I’m creating the chance for someone else to know they're cared for.”

-Darin Peterson, Founder of Common Change

“We had a paradigm shift when money lost its power to generate fear of scarcity, and the lens through which we saw struggle and pain revealed opportunity and hope.”

-Ben and Amber Younan

needs presented. “It sounds weird to say, but now I actually get excited to know someone AND their need. I know a table full of people who want to help,” says Brian.

Generosity dinners began in Oakland, California, by an organization called Common Change. The idea was born out of a group of people who set money aside weekly, and at the end of the month, they would see how much money had been pooled. Seeing that the money grew quickly, they collaborated around the table about how to creatively meet needs. This led to the birth of their non-profit. Their platform allows for any group, anywhere, to pool money, meet and talk about needs, vote on the need they want to give to, and have 100% of the money (anonymous or not) delivered to the person. Meeting needs may mean filling someone’s apartment with balloons after a job loss, helping cover an unexpected car repair, or sending a struggling family to a nice meal out. Regardless of the gift, it’s a powerful practice of mindfulness, creativity, and abundance.

contact:

commonchange.com/generositydinners Want to host a dinner? Email brian.boitmann@commonchange.com

[the healthy side of austin]

eastsideatx.com

49

Social Hour

O U R FAV E E V E N T

andy roddick foundation gala

SUPPORTING THE EASTSIDE

Starting at Top, Left to Right: 1. Andy Roddick, founder and chairman of ARF, with Dana Read, of PwC Charitable Foundations 2. Model Chrissy Teigen with husband, artist John Legend, Andy Roddick with wife, model Brooklyn Decker, & Nav Sooch of the Sooch Foundation with wife, journalist Whitney Casey 3. Heath Hale Auctioneers 4. Jackson Bigham, CCO of SMART, with Sara Skirboll, Senior Director of Public Relations for RetailMeNot 5. Paul Martinez with Monica Martinez, Principal of Harris Elementary School 6. Richard Tagle, CEO of ARF, with William Van Pelt, former CEO of HeartGift Foundation

At their 12th annual gala, the Andy Roddick Foundation (ARF) celebrated something they like to call “wide-eyed and smiley.” According to ARF, wide-eyed and smiley is the look kids get when they discover a new passion, but it was also the look of gala-goers throughout the evening who managed to raise more than 1 million dollars in support of ARF. Over 1,500 people turned out to take part in the philanthropy event while showcasing Austin style and enjoying performances by John Legend, Jake Owens, and the Pecan Springs Elementary School Choir.

8509 FM 969, Austin, TX 78724 | arfoundation.org PHOTOS COURTESY OF ANDY RODDICK FOUNDATION

SUBSCRIBE TODAY Receive a YEAR'S SUBSCRIPTION delivered to your mailbox for $21.99

eastsideatx.com/subscription 50 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

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A Location

worth the title of

HOME

OUR

NEW

EST

U MM

NIT

Y

I CRH R D A L LLE

CO

N IN MUE O I L TED

A ML O C A

BUILDING GREEN for healthy living

Experience one of our unique communities in the Austin area that operate with the sole aim of providing you an outstanding living environment. You owe it to yourself to find the perfect home. To find yours, visit us online at AMLI.com.

AMLI Eastside • 855-615-8425

AMLI 300 • 844-618-8255

AMLI on 2ND • 844-823-8097

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AMLI Downtown • 855-730-6238

AMLI on Aldrich • 855-207-7684

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AMLI at Mueller • 844-652-7177

Social Hour

O U R FAV E E V E N T

SUPPORTING THE EASTSIDE

women in business A NETWORK EVENT IN CELEBRATION OF WOMEN There is something about women that just begs for their voices to be heard and their stories to be told. Whether they are a pioneer carving out a path for those to follow, at the helm of a business, or a mother in a thicket of toddlerhood, each female pursues her path with a passion that inspires others with its ferocity. East Austin is full of these women who look beyond themselves in order to focus on the needs and concerns of their community and the world around them.

This is an opportunity to celebrate and encourage other women to showcase their inner beauty and unstoppable strength. In September, EASTside Magazine gathered all these inspirational women at Springdale Station (also a woman-owned-and-opperated) to celebrate.

Thank you to all who made it such an epic event. We cannot wait until next year!

springdalestation.com 979 Springdale Rd. eastsideatx.com 835 Pleasant Valley Dr. PHOTOS BY LEAH MUSE

52 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

find more at eastsideatx.com

MORE THAN

BIKRAM VINYASA. HATHA. YIN. ROCKET.

www.yogaeastaustin.com

Thank you to our event sponsors for making the evening so memorable!

Easton Park, Springdale Station, Eden East, Buenos Aires Cafe, Colleen's Kitchen, Fluff Murangues, Austin Eastciders, Sway Water, Daily Greens, Infinite Monkey Theorem, Spirit of Texas Independent Distillery, and Mighty Swell Cocktails

[the healthy side of austin]

eastsideatx.com

53

6

eastside / go&do

best

Performances

of the Holiday Season WORDS BY SAVANNAH WHITMER PHOTO COURTESY OF ZACH SCOTT THEATRE

1

The Muttcracker

Man’s best friend meets a ballet classic with The VORTEX’s canine rendition of The Nutcracker. The circus-style performance is of a breed all its own, featuring juggling, unicycling, a live, jazzy version of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, and some amazing stunts.

This annual Austin favorite brings back returning stars: five clever rescue dogs, a talking scarlet macaw, and some talented VORTEX artists. The whole family is in for a treat! Experience The Muttcracker from December 21 to January 8 for a $25 general admission ticket, or a $15 discounted ticket for children, artists, students, and seniors.

2307 Manor Rd. | vortexrep.org

2

Shen Yun

How do you express the richness of five millennia of Chinese culture? It’s something only the Shen Yun performance can accomplish. This world-renowned revitalization of ancient Chinese dynasties is legendary in itself for its beautiful displays. Add in a one-ofa-kind symphony to the elaborate dances and costumes, and you can start to understand how Shen Yun evokes the power of centuries-old Chinese art and folklore. Experience Shen Yun at the Long Center January 5-7. Tickets start at $84. 701 W Riverside Dr. | thelongcenter.org

54 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

3

The holidays are meant to be the happiest time of the year, but shopping crazes, in-laws, and new year diets aren’t always a recipe for good cheer.

So this holiday season, take a seat and let someone else break a leg. Austin boasts some of the most creative people (and pets) in the world, and it’s time to let them take center stage.

Soul of a Musician Series

Looking for a laid-back night out?

Head over to the Iron Cactus restaurant for first three Sundays in December for an intimate encounter with Austin’s soul musicians. St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church pairs with the Mexican grill and bar for the church’s fifth year of celebrating passionate performances by local artists. Feast your taste buds on house favorites while you feast your love for soul on indie folk duo Dawn and Hawkes and longtime Soul of a Musician favorites Matt the Electrician and The Cotton Mather Christmas Show. Don’t miss out—Soul of a Musician series won’t pick up again until spring!

10001 Stonelake Blvd. | stmattsaustin.org

4

Christmas Belles

What do you get when you bring together Eastside theater talent, a Texas-sized story, and a twisted take on southern charm? This holiday season, you’ll get Christmas Belles, as put on by the City Theatre. If you’re looking for some comic relief amid the festivities, look no further than this must-see story about three sisters and a Christmas pageant gone wrong. Find tickets online starting at $10, December 1-30.

3823 Airport Blvd. | citytheatreaustin.org

find more at eastsideatx.com

5

The Nutcracker: Suite Dreams

A Christmas classic! The Austin Metamorphosis Dance Ensemble brings all of its talent to the Boyd Vance Theatre stage in this contemporary rendition of Tchaikovsky's timeless ballet. Expect a magical holiday masterpiece that showcases the genre-blending abilities of local dancers for the fourth year running in the Land of the Sweets. Suite Dreams is showing December 8-10 at 2:30 and 7:30pm. Buy your tickets before the show for $20, or at the door for $25.

1165 Angelina St. | metamorphosisdance.org

6

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

ZACH Theatre breathes new life into C.S. Lewis’s children’s book with a rendition that’s anything but classic.

Families will feel the magic of Narnia as just two actors take on this well-loved fantasy masterpiece on the intimate Whisenhunt stage. Catch The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe on Saturdays in December and January. Tickets start at $18.

202 S Lamar Blvd. | zachtheatre.org

Home + away “What’s important is that it looks like you tried, but also still prioritizing the people in your life over the decorations. The whole point of the holidays is to be together.” p.56

December+ January 2017/2018

56 holiday

home

THIS SEASON, INCORPORATE NATURAL ELEMENTS THAT CREATE A MEMORABLE AMBIANCE THAT STANDS THE TEST OF TIME.

58 away

YOU DON'T HAVE TO GO FAR FROM HOME TO EXPERIENCE ONE OF THE HILL COUNTRY'S HIDDEN GYMS. GEORGETOWN HAS CAVES, CAFÉS, CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AND MORE.

eastside / home

Home for the Holidays

Style to Stand the Test of Time

WORDS BY SOMMER BRUGAL PHOTOS BY THAMICA MCCOOK

When Lauren Ramirez sets out to decorate her home for the holidays, she takes inventory of trinkets and knick-knacks she already owns. For the East Austin-based designer and stylist, simple additions and subtle improvement always do the trick.

56 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

find more at eastsideatx.com

A

s Ramirez plated peanuts, olives, and pickles at the home of her dearest friends who run the local nonprofit, The Archibald Project, she reminisced about her start in styling and interior decorating.

“I started [styling] photo shoots, focusing on what a photo [could] capture,” remembers Ramirez. “But I found that to be temporal, and I realized I really wanted to help design spaces that would last.” While her design

work is self-taught, Ramirez says much of what she learned about styling came from assisting talented stylists on photo shoots for national brand magazines.

Currently a freelance stylist and interior decorator, Ramirez says her mission and vision for all projects are about helping people create spaces where real life can flourish.

Ramirez goes on to set the mood as a pair of red candles sit atop wood bedposts from India; touches of shrubs and greenery are placed around the room.

On the couch drapes a wool, plaid blanket—the deep red and green pallet making it an obvious choice for the holidays. Yet, Ramirez says the blanket itself isn’t trendy or holiday specific; it will stand the test of time.

“I try really hard not to play the commercial game,” says Ramirez. “I would much rather play off natural elements and color [instead] of actual Christmas decorations.”

Ramirez says paying attention to what you already have around your home, bringing in a few tasteful elements, and paying attention to colors and textures,

can put a holiday spin on any room.

She points to a fluffy white pillow for reference. While the pillow may seem perfect for the holidays, Ramirez sighs and says, “It’s just white.”

Some of her favorite pieces she brings out every year include brass candlesticks she purchased at a street market in New Orleans. Candles, she says, are timeless additions. She mentions her wreaths, made from preserved silver dollar eucalyptus leaves, which will continue to pass over time without looking like plastic.

When it comes to entertaining during the holidays, Ramirez has a few suggestions: be sure to have plenty of seating, prepare as much as you can ahead of time, and invite guests to bring something along with them.

Her main piece of advice, though, has nothing to do with interiors or decorations. Ramirez reminds us, “What’s important is that it looks like you tried, but also still prioritizing the people in your life over the decorations. The whole point of the holidays is to be together.”

The Archibald Project is

using storytelling to spark and expand a movement of people to care for orphans in creative and educated ways, in order to combat and end the global orphan crisis.

Catch their new Orphan Care Travel Show on YouTube and join the journey on Instagram: @ thearchibaldproject

[the healthy side of austin]

contact:

512.277.9008 lauren-ramirez.com @lauren.ramirez.atx eastsideatx.com

57

eastside / away

A Weekend In

Georgetown A Hidden Gem

WORDS BY ERIN MCWILLIAMS PHOTOS COURTESY OF NEWTON O'NEILL COMMUNICATIONS

GEORGETOWN IS ONE OF THE HILL COUNTRY’S HIDDEN GEMS, BOASTING THE BEAUTIFUL BLUE HOLE ALONG THE SAN GABRIEL RIVER, ONE OF THE BEST PRESERVED CAVES IN THE STATE, AND A DREAMY TOWN SQUARE.

Friday After a long work week, make it a low-maintenance Friday.

Check into the historic San Gabriel House and check out 600 Degrees Pizzeria Drafthouse on the square for a huge slice of their mouthwatering pies. If you’re indecisive, try your luck with the Baker’s Choice, and let the chef decide the fate of your pizza. After you’ve had

if you go...

Where to Stay: If you’re looking for convenience and comfort, the new Sheraton Hotel and Con-

your fill, let your food digest while walking around the Square to see the holiday lights (lit the Friday after Thanksgiving!) or catch A Christmas Carol at the Palace Live Theater.

Saturday Start your day with a farm-to-table brunch at Sweet Lemon Kitchen, where everything is made from scratch, then take a tour ference Center sits across I-35 from the square on the San Gabriel River. It has everything you could possibly need, but if you’re looking for something more quaint and local, try the

58 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

of the Inner Space Cavern that lays 33.5 feet under I-35 and is home to fossils of over 44 species of animals, including a Mammoth and Saber-Tooth Tiger. If you’re looking for a paved walking tour, take the Adventure Tour, but if you’d rather a real adventure, take the Hidden Passages Tour and explore delicate formations off the beaten path (literally). The truly daring will take a gamble on the Wild Cave Tour, where participants crawl through rugged passages of the caves for four hours with nothing but a flashlight. After all that walking (or crawling), you might be hungry for a snack.

Visit the Monument Market for a healthy light-bite, drink from the espresso bar, or a homemade dessert. Make a day of the Rentsch Brewery, just a ten-minute drive from the caverns. End your night with dinner and cocktails at The Hollow Brasserie.

San Gabriel House, a few blocks from the square, or Sweet Lemon Inn right inside the square.

Holiday Events: The Friday after Thanksgiving,

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Sunday The Monument Cafe offers a classic diner-style breakfast and lunch that will remind you of your favorite diner back home.

You might notice while driving through town that many of the houses and buildings have metal plaques on them; that’s because they

are part of Georgetown’s Historic District and are protected from renovation by the county. To get a good viewing-variety, drive down Myrtle, Ash, or University.

Before heading out of town, stop by Mikey V’s Hot Sauce Shop and taste-test some award-winning, mouth-burning salsas and hot sauces to take home as a souvenir.

the entire Square is decorated with Christmas lights. December 1-2, Georgetown puts on the annual Christmas Stroll that includes Santa, a parade, a Christmas Tree Farm,

Bethlehem Village, and The Grinch’s Whoo-village.

Drive around the square and neighborhoods to see houses and businesses put on holiday light displays.

Sip + taste December+ January 2017/2018 60 taste feature

AT THE NEW YUYO, CHEF RIVERO SHOWCASES PERUVIAN PRIDE WITH AN EXPLOSION OF FLAVORS AND CULTURES.

62 taste

expert

HARVEST FLAVORS ENHANCE THE NATURAL SWEETNESS IN THESE THREE PIE RECIPES.

64 dining

guide

A CURATED GUIDE TO SOME OF EAST AUSTIN'S BEST RESTAURANTS

66 sip

feature "Pie is family, home, and celebration.

It's old friends drinking coffee and reminiscing. It's our children, standing on tiptoes, reaching up to the table for more. Pie is all the best things in life." p.62

AT ZHI TEA, TEA ISN'T JUST A DRINK. IT'S A JOURNEY, A PASSION, AND A LIFESTYLE.

eastside / taste

South by Ceviche

Flavors of South America are making their way to East Austin.

WORDS BY JESSICA DEVENYNS PHOTOS BY ASHLEY HAGUEWOOD

In Peru, they eat ceviche year-round.

It’s like Austinites and tacos, something that is good any time and all the time.

U

nfortunately, “it’s really hard to find people who know ceviche,” says Yuyo’s head chef, Maribel Rivero. Although there are plenty of dishes that Peruvians would claim are integral to the DNA of the country’s gastronomy, the seafood-driven ceviche might be its signature.

Peruvian ceviche has an unlikely history. While most coastal towns throughout South America were inclined to utilize their natural maritime resources, many chose to marinate their fish thoroughly to both focus on the infusion of flavors, as well as preserve the seafood. In Peru, however, fish was simply submerged in a marinade five minutes before it was served to allow tongues to appreciate the clear flavors of nature’s bounty.

Does this approach sound familiar?

It’s kind of like sushi,” explains Rivero. “This is all influenced from the Japanese immigrants to Peru at the turn of the 19th century.” In fact, Rivero claims that the “made to order” approach makes ceviche better.

Peruvian cuisine is a re-education in ingredients where limes are meticulously selected for their clarity and balanced acidity, fish is nothing if not fresh, and thousands of races of corn are sifted through until the kernel with the right 'toothiness’ is matched to a dish.

This renaissance, however, is a contemporary occurrence. Following the settling dust of the Peruvian Civil War in the 1980s and 1990s, chefs began returning to the country to replant the roots that had been ripped up both by displacement and the culinary community’s unwavering focus on French haute cuisine. “A few of them came back and were like, well what about our cuisine?” explains Rivero.

60 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

find more at eastsideatx.com

“My goal was first to do a year of travel and reconnect with the chefs,” Rivero remembers.

She intended to go to Bolivia, Peru, and Brazil, but admits, “I never made it to Brazil” after attending the Culinary Institute of America Latin Cuisine Program in San Antonio.

3317 Manor Road/Dharma-Yoga.net

This musing soon became a mantra that propelled Peruvian food onto the world’s table and grabbed the attention of a half Bolivian, half Mexican-American graduate of the Culinary Institute of America in San Antonio.

3317 Manor Road/Dharma-Yoga.net

3317 Manor Road/Dharma-Yoga.net

Instead, she stayed in Lima to watch the culinary scene explode around her. After a few years, her brother and the owner of the El Chile restaurant group persuaded her to move back stateside and introduce Austin to the reawakened Peruvian cuisine.

Unexpectedly, Rivero recalls being nervous.

Nevertheless, she persevered in introducing unique flavors to Austin audiences, and the result is a whitewashed patio dotted with the clean scent of fried chifles – or green plantains – and their aji amarillo accompaniment.

Starchy choclo precedes the nearly effervescent lime broth that cradles sashimi-thin slices of drum fish that drift onto the patio. The paella, too, has an inescapably South American tinge with its haphazard array of colors accentuated by the Peruvian pottery in which it rests. A pisco sour is placed strategically within reach to help cleanse the palate between dishes.

However, Rivero warns, “Two is your max; don’t drink more than two.” Because naturally, there needs to be room for wine; the proud chef ensures that each dish is highlighted by its optimal pairing. “The pride the Peruvians have for their food is unparalleled except by the French,” Rivero quips. “It’s really been about sharing the food and the products and the warmth of the people.”

is ad Bring in th ve ai and we’ll w

$150 on

in applicati fees

Did You Know?

Pisco Sours, the cocktail often associated with Peru, was the invention of an enterprising American during the Gold Rush who substituted the whisky in a Manhattan Sour for Peru’s grape-based pisco.

Elysian at Mueller offers luxury apartment homes and a wide range of community amenities including clubhouse with TV lounge, business center, conference rooms, 24-hour fitness center, yoga studio, virtual fitness classes on demand, sun-lit pool with tanning deck, monthly social events, and more.

contact:

512.919.4147 1900 Manor Road yuyoaustin.com

elysianmueller

[the healthy side of austin]

4646 Mueller Blvd Austin, TX 78723 (512) 474-7368

eastsideatx.com

61

eastside / taste expert

We

ie.

ve P o L

Yes, we are all about healthy eating, but we love pie.

We love, love, love pie.

WORDS BY KAYLA & JUSTIN BUTTS PHOTOS BY RACHEL BENAVIDES

Crust: Mix dry ingredients in a large bowl. Using your fingers or a pastry blender, quickly work in butter and shortening until the pieces are lentil-small pea sized. Add enough milk to get a soft dough formed, taking care not to overmix. Place in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 375°F. Remove pie crust from refrigerator and let rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before rolling out.

Roll out dough and place in a deep-dish pie pan. Prick all over with a fork. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the pastry begins to turn golden around the edges.

W

e don’t, however, love the obscene level of sweetness in most pies. The purpose of pie is not to deliver the maximum concentration of sugar or high fructose corn syrup. The best pies deliver a range of subtle flavors balanced by their natural sweetness. We set out to make three of our favorite pies even better using quality, wholesome ingredients.

without the corn syrup? Dates! Coupled with maple syrup, chopped dates achieve the ideal level of natural sweetness. The rich crust is made from buttery shortbread cookies to contrast with the confection of the filling.

Apple pie is a tradition of the holiday table, and this version celebrates the natural tart sweetness of apples with a quick caramel sauce of butter and sugar. This simple approach demands high-quality eating apples with excepButtermilk is a classic pie of the Deep South. Borrowing tional flavor that will stand up to heat. We suggest the techniques from another custardy favorite, crème brûlée, Fuji variety for this pie. gives this down-home dessert a touch of elegance. Steeping a vanilla bean in tangy buttermilk intensifies the fla- Slicing apples into thin strips and rolling them into the shape of roses adds an elegant touch. Filled with apple vor, while sprinkling sugar on top and caramelizing it with a torch adds texture. The flaky homemade pie crust flowers, this pie may be the prettiest thing on your holiday table. is the perfect complement to the silky filling.

Not much compares to the heavenly crunch of pecans in Yes, we love pie, because it is more than just pie. Pie is a good pecan pie. But, unfortunately, the gelatinous fill- family, home, and celebration. Pie is old friends sitting at a table, drinking coffee, and reminiscing. Pie is our chiling in most pecan pies is high-fructose corn syrup. dren, standing on tiptoes, reaching up to the table for How can we achieve that wonderful sweet gooeyness more. Pie is all the best things in life.

Buttermilk Brûlée Pie

in a large bowl. Using your fingers or a pastry blender, quickly work in butter and shortening until the pieces are pea-sized. Add enough water to form a soft dough, taking care not to over-mix. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Crust: 1 ¼ c. all-purpose flour 1 T. sugar 1/4 t. salt 1/4 t. baking powder 6 T. butter, cold 2 t. shortening, cold 2-3 T. ice water

Preheat oven to 375°F. Remove pie crust from refrigerator and let rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before rolling out. Roll out dough, prick all over with a fork and place in a pie pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the pastry begins to turn golden around the edges.

Reduce oven temperature to 350°F.

Filling: 1 c. buttermilk 2/3 c. sugar 1/2 c. unsalted butter 4 egg yolks 1 whole egg 1 vanilla bean Dash salt Juice of one lemon 2 T. sugar Crust: Mix dry ingredients

Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine buttermilk and butter over medium heat. Scrape out the insides of the vanilla bean and add it to the buttermilk mixture.

In a large bowl, mix eggs, sugar, salt, and lemon juice well. Remove buttermilk from heat once it begins to boil. Let buttermilk cool for 15 minutes. Whisk egg mixture into the buttermilk. Pour into the pie crust and bake for 45 minutes or until the outside edge of the custard has begun to set, and the inside is still jiggly.

Let the pie cool for 15 minutes. Sprinkle 2 tbsp of sugar over the top of the pie. Caramelize the sugar using a torch.

Apple Pie Wheat Pie Crust: 3/4 c. wheat flour 1/2 c. all-purpose flour 1/2 t. salt 1 T. sugar 1/4 t. baking powder 1/4 c. shortening, cold and cubed 1/4 c. unsalted butter, cold and cubed 2-3 T. milk, cold Filling: 4 T. unsalted butter 4 large apples, rinsed, cored, sliced across the center in thin slices 4 T. sugar Juice of one lemon 1 T. apricot jelly, melted

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Filling: Melt butter in a large sauté pan over low-medium heat. Add apple slices, sprinkle with sugar and lemon juice. Cover apples and stir occasionally, until apples become malleable, about 5 minutes.

Remove apples from pan and place on a clean workspace. Reserve cooking liquid.

Place three layers of apples at the bottom of the prepared pie crust. Cut a slit across the radius of the remaining apple slices.

Fold an apple slice in on itself until a spiral shape is formed. Keep adding more apple slices until you’ve reached the desired size of your rose. Repeat until your pie has been filled. Pour reserved apple cooking liquid over finished roses. Brush apples and crust with apricot preserves. If desired, return to the oven for 20 minutes, or until pie is heated through.

Pecan Date Pie Shortbread Crust: 16 butter shortbread cookies (2 5.3 oz packages) 6 T. butter, melted Pecan Date Filling: 3/4 c. packed medjool dates (about 12 large dates), pitted 3 eggs 1 cup pecan halves 3/4 c. maple syrup 4 T. butter, melted 1/4 t. salt 1 t. vanilla Crust: Purée cookies in a food processor until fine crumbs. Add melted butter, and press into the bottom of an oiled pie pan.

Filling: Spray your knife with non-stick cooking spray and finely mince dates.

Alternately, use a food processor with oiled blades.

In a large bowl, beat eggs well. Add dates and remaining ingredients, mixing well.

Pour mix into prepared crust. Bake pie at 375°F for 35-40 minutes. eastsideatx.com

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O U R FAV E R E S TA U R A N T S

Pick 26

FOR THE EASTSIDE

eastside dining guide Hillside Farmacy

Austin Daily Press

Austin Daily Press has spent the last five years honing their craft, and it shows! The ADP team, led by Chef Reed Faitak and coowners Dustin Knef and Chase Rushing, have found their voice through creating incredibly flavorful experiences sandwiched between locally baked telera.

1900 E MLK Jr. Blvd. | 4620 E Cesar Chavez St. austindailypress.com

Fukumoto Sushi & Yakitori

With intricate dishes that appear to be as much a work of art as they are a meal, Fukumoto is a restaurant that pleases your other four senses as much as it does your taste buds. Whether it’s hand rolled sushi and charcoal-grilled yakitori dishes, this is where a meal is meant to be enjoyed. When you visit, expect a unique dining experience where you are served gastropub cuisine gradually over several courses.

514 Medina St. | fukumotoaustin.com

Something about Hillside Farmacy’s oysters, weekend brunches, and cocktails just make you feel better. Perhaps that's due to its historical location in the lovingly renovated 1950s Hillside Drugstore. Or perhaps it’s because the fresh, carefully selected seasonal food that comes from local farms and onto your plate is just good medicine.

1209 E 11th St. | hillsidefarmacy.com

El Sunzal is a quintessential hole-in-the-wall that makes up for its bare-bones appearance with its exceptional El Salvadorian fare. Make sure to sample the fried yucca, seafood soup, and the pupusas. 642 Calles St.

Juan in a Million

Made famous by the Don Juan, this no-frills establishment has more to offer than insurmountable breakfast tacos. Try the migas or the huevos rancheros for starters.

2300 E Cesar Chavez St. | juaninamillion.com

Buenos Aires Café

Flyrite Chicken

Disrupting the fast food industry one sandwich at a time, Flyrite is a drive-thru with all-natural, antibiotic-free chicken as well as gluten-free and vegetarian options.

2129 E 7th St. | flyritechicken.com

American cocktails and Argentinian fare make their home side by side at Buenos Aires Café.

The locally inspired menu offers Argentinian mainstays like empanadas as well as seasonal favorites. Don’t be surprised to find yourself falling in love with the live Latin music and flavors that come out of this restaurant.

1201 E 6th St. | buenosairescafe.com

The Doughminican

Find Caribbean beats, happy people, and soul-filled food at this trailer. Try the legendary empanadas that are rolled out fresh for everyone, the quipes, and the sweet bean dessert. 1403 E 7th St. | thedoughminican.com

Kyoten Sushiko

At Kyōten, Chef Otto Phan’s attention to detail makes for an impeccable dining experience.

With such measured preparation and presentation, you can trust that you will be dazzled with each visit. 4600 Mueller Blvd., Ste.1035 | kyotensushiko.com

Cuban Sandwich Café

Cuban sandwiches, fried plantains, fish, and tostones are methodically served to customers without pomp and circumstance. However, there is nothing extra needed to introduce a meal here. Each dish has the distinct taste of homemade and comes with its own side of Latin flavor to make it simply irresistible.

1804 Briarcliff Blvd.

Micklethwait Craft Meats

Artessano

Although known for their beef ribs and brisket, if you’re headed to Micklethwait’s, you can’t forget about the sides. Your meal won’t be the same without a scoop of the jalapeño cheese grits or lemon poppy seed coleslaw.

1309 Rosewood Ave. | craftmeatsaustin.com

The fresh tropical fruit juice and the arepas are why you need to visit Artessano. As a food trailer specializing in Colombian food, expect dance music and lots of friendly conversation when you visit. 1211 E 6th St. 64 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

El Sunzal

find more at eastsideatx.com

WORDS BY JESSICA DEVENYNS

eastside / dining guide

Yellow Jacket Social Club

Come for brunch, come for happy hour, come for a good time. Whether you’re on the shaded patio or inside at the bar, the food is always good and the drinks are always cold at Yellow Jacket Social Club. Plus, this is a pet-friendly establishment.

1704 E 5th St. | yellowjacketsocialclub.com

La Matta

La Matta is a cozy corner shop featuring classic Italian paninis, salads, salumi boards and hand-selected wine & beer on tap. It’s the perfect spot for a quick business lunch, casual dinner & drinks on the patio, or soccer watching with friends.

501 Comal St. | lamattaaustin.com

Rockstar Bagels

Go for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Joe’s ingenuity has produced some of the best bagels on the block. Made in an authentic New York fashion, you won’t be disappointed as you consider the texture of every chewy bite.

1900 Rosewood Ave. | rockstarbagels.com

A tiny kitchen with a walk-up window, Taco Mex nevertheless manages to serve up healthy-sized & fairly-priced breakfast tacos and chicken quesadillas with Tex-Mex flavors.

2611 Manor Rd. | tacomexorders.com

This unassuming store-front houses an outstanding array of donuts, kolaches, and breakfast croissants. Even if the food wasn’t enough, owners Socea and Sarorn make the trip to S-H worth it every time. 5313 Manor Rd.

Under the wizened oak trees of Springdale Farm is an unmarked trailer whose plain façade belies hyper-seasonal, farm-to-table dishes. Whether it’s a farm-fresh breakfast on market days or a sit-down prix fixe dinner under the stars, Eden East reinvents the idea of eating local. Keep an eye out for their a-lacarte nights one Thursday a month.

755 Springdale Rd. | edeneastaustin.com

Justine's Brasserie

Dee Dee Komé Sushi Kitchen

Seat yourself among wood-paneled walls and select from an expansive saké list featuring local and imported options as well as a menu full of inventive variations of flavorful Japanese classics.

5301 Airport Blvd. | kome-austin.com

Hummus Amongus

Eden East

This little barbecue truck produces a mountain of smoky flavor. With large portions and an affordable menu, you’ll be tempted into ordering the ribs and the turkey just because.

1149 1/2 Airport Blvd. | jleonardibbq.com

Known for late-night dining and artistic flare, Justine’s should be on the radar of anyone who is craving French fare. Sit on the patio, enjoy a cocktail, and revel in the experience.

4710 E 5th St. | justines1937.com

Taco Mex

S-H Donuts

J. Leonardi’s Barbecue

Arriving via a twisted trajectory through Israel, Spain, and NYC, Berty Richter landed with an inkling that Austinites needed real hummus in their lives. He wasn’t wrong. With Turkish and Israeli roots, his fresh-to-order hummus is bold and daring with just the right amount of spice to make it a welcome addition to East Austin. 1906 E Cesar Chavez St.

Tso Chinese Delivery

Raised in Thailand, Lakana brings the region’s flavors to East Austin. With a name that means “good good,” no one can argue that this food truck has set itself up for success.

1906 E Cesar Chavez St. | deedeeatx.com

Mongers Market + Kitchen

Fish doesn’t get much fresher. Check out the catch of the day blackboard for stellar raw bar creations, or order Gulf-inspired dishes from the curated menu.

2401 E Cesar Chavez St. | mongersaustin.com

Café Nena’í

If the idea of a strong cup of coffee and smallbatch pastries make you smile, then try Café Nena’í. This mother-daughter duo have deep South American roots that can be savored via pastafrola, empanadas, and arepas.

1700 Montopolis Dr., Ste. A | cafenenai.com

Unlike most eateries around, Tso is carryout and delivery only, but that doesn’t mean that the cuisine suffers. Each meal is made fresh to order, delivery is free, and tipping is discouraged. (512) 774-4876 | tsodelivery.com

For more information about the dining guide contact Jessi@eastsideatx.com.

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eastside / sip expert

Pause, Reflect, Connect

embracing the tea lifestyle WORDS BY SAM LAURON PHOTOS BY THAMICA MCCOOK

A

s the second most consumed beverage in the world behind water, tea boasts benefits that affect not only physical health but also mental and spiritual health as well.

Jeffrey Lorien, founder and owner of Zhi Tea, understands these benefits well. His journey with tea began fifteen years ago when he started to develop health issues that stemmed from alcohol and coffee consumption. After being introduced to tea, Lorien began to notice changes in his day-to-day life. He slept better, lost weight, and no longer experienced energy crashes in the middle of the day. “It took about a year and a half to wean myself off coffee,” Lorien recalls.

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With a newfound passion for tea and a fire to start something of his own, Lorien and a partner opened Zhi Tea in 2007. They initially worked out of their house and were solely focused on manufacturing their own teas and distributing them to wholesalers, but after finding the quaint building in East Austin where they reside today, their hand-blended teas were introduced to the public. “It grew organically over time,” says Lorien. “We just wanted to provide really good tea and see where it went.”

There are countless benefits to drinking tea, as Lorien has discovered and believes. Among those, hydration, mood regulation, and the presence of vitamins and antioxidants are the top reasons tea should be a staple in one’s diet. A little known fact about tea is that it’s surprisingly hydrating. The myth that caffeine is dehydrating has been debunked.

It’s actually the alkaloids in coffee that cause dehydration. Lorien states “I drank tea for about a year and nothing else [and] I was so healthy.”

If you’re thinking about making the transition from coffee or soda to tea, the best advice Lorien says: “It’s a journey, take your time, and don’t expect to [transition] within a week.” You can find close to 100 different varieties of tea at Zhi Tea, from flavored blends to pure herbal and caffeine-free, and they’re one of only a handful of shops across the country who offer only organic teas. But if you’re wondering which tea you should start with, Lorien’s advice is don’t force it. “The best tea for you to drink is the one you’ll drink.”

Teas to Drink this Winter Chai: These teas are full of spices, which are good for digestion. “In the winter, everything slows down,” says Lorien. “We tend to eat more and [chai] keeps your metabolism going.”

Rooibos: Teas with this South-African herb are warm, soothing and brothy. Zhi Tea carries many blends with Rooibos.

Oolong: The most indulgent tea, and Jeffrey’s favorite, oolongs are flavorful, rich and “best on a cold day.”

contact:

(512) 539-0717 4607 Bolm Road zhitea.com @ZhiTea

In the new year, Zhi Tea will relocate just down the road from their current location to Springdale General at 1023 Springdale Road. Springdale General is a 10-acre affordable maker studio complex. Within their new modern space, Zhi Tea will be housed among many other creatives who call East Austin home.

View of Building 1

66 EASTside | Dec2017/Jan2018

Created by find architect more at eastsideatx.com Michael Hsu and the team that brought you Canopy.

REAL FOOD FOR ALL Delicious Vegan Gluten Free Nothing Fake

Tempura Cauliflower Wrap

2129 E. 7TH STREET | 6539 BURNET ROAD WWW.FLYRITECHICKEN.COM

5% BACK AFTER EVERY $100 SPENT

EASTSIDE

QUALITY + NATURAL + HEALTHY 2505 E. 6th St. Unit D (512) 482-8219 TUESDAYS - SATURDAYS 10AM - 7PM SUNDAYS 12PM - 6PM

PET FOOD + SUPPLIES

primepetaustin.com | primepetaustin

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