TODO Austin August 2017

www.todoaustin.com

Love is Love is Love.

VOLUME IX / AUG 2017

Rep. Doggett on Trump’s Wall Capital City Black Film Festival Liz Lopez’s To Do Música India Independence Day

C E N T R O U R B A N O HABLA Austin

Austin criminal justice On the second anniversary of Sandra Bland’s death in a Waller County Jail, Austin criminal justice and immigrant rights groups and formerly incarcerated Austinites reacted to a new report from Grassroots Leadership that shows dramatic racial disparities in the Travis County Jail. Advocates are calling on local officials to act to reduce incarceration rates and racial disparities in the jail. African American-led organizations and criminal justice and immigrant rights groups called on local officials as did immigrant rights organizations, to address the need to implement policies that reduce arrests in the runup to the September 1 implementation of SB4.

Austin delegation visits Saltillo Council Member Sabino “Pio” Renteria led an Austin delegation made up of local businesses, non-profits, city staff, and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico in late July. The delegation networked with city and state governmental leaders from Austin’s oldest Sister City. “Austin knows that technology is making our world smaller and smaller and to succeed we must strengthen our international relationships.

Technology has also opened up vast opportunities for trade and innovation and more importantly real cultural understanding,” said Renteria, who along with the delegation, attended a celebration of the 440th anniversary of Saltillo’s founding.

Saltillo Mayor and Councilman “Pio” Renteria

ACC Rio Grande renovation The Austin Community College District breaks ground on renovations at its Rio Grande Campus on Austin’s MULTICULTURAL media source for EIGHT YEARS • Find us at TODOAustin.com

Thursday, August 10. “This campus represents a legacy of learning that spans more than a century,” says Dr. Richard Rhodes, ACC president/CEO. The Rio Grande Campus Main Building was the original Austin High School and became an ACC campus in 1975. Renovations will preserve its architectural features and update facilities. The campus is scheduled to open in late 2019.

Bull Creek development Some residents of West Austin are taking action against a proposed development of an 11 story commercial hotel along Bull Creek. People are questioning the plan because the water quality from the creek would be negatively impacted; the development would threaten the sensitive environment within Bull Creek Park; and the creek floods regularly and closes an already narrow two-lane section, inhibiting access by emergency vehicles and increased traffic, endangering public safety. Residents are further requesting that the city utilize the area for parkland or low-density housing instead, preserving the nature of Bull Creek Park and surrounding areas. Their petition is at www. ipetitions.com/petition/save-bull-creek.

Dove Springs Rec Center art Art in Public Places is seeking to commission a professional visual artist, or artist team, to design and fabricate artwork for the Dove Springs Recreation Center at 5801 Ainez Drive. The total budget for the project is $44,000 and submission deadline is September 14, 2017. The AIPP program seeks to a commission a contemporary work of art for the Center that is both interactive and family-oriented.

See www.PublicArtist.org for more.

Livability for urban dwellers The personal-finance website, WalletHub, released its report on 2017’s Best Big Cities to Live in.

Livability of Austin (1=Best; 31=Avg.) data states the city is: 30th in Housing Costs; 5 in Income Growth; 12th in Quality of Public Hospital System; 17th in Quality of Public School System; 11th in Job Opportunities; 7th in Air Quality; 29th in Access to Public Transportation; 26th in Parkland (as % of City Area); and 7th in Violent-Crime Rate.

The downtown puzzle and the ARCH From Mayor Steve Adler COA post

The Downtown Puzzle options and pathways forward are now coming into greater focus due to the further work of the Council, including but not limited to the town hall meetings sponsored

by Council Members Renteria, Houston and Mayor Pro Tem Tovo, city staff’s work including the recent Update to Financing for Downtown Projects, the Visitor Impact Task Force Report, and other community involvement. I pull from these efforts liberally and at least some of their work is re-stated below.

Mayor Steve Adler

The various pieces of the Downtown Puzzle fit together and, in some important ways, are dependent upon one another. One example is the dire need to address the public safety and social challenges presented at the Austin Resource Center for the Homeless (ARCH). We need to modify its function to allow the existing facility (without expansion and in that location) to better serve the homeless community. While the challenge is not new, we’ve not been able to identify a dedicated funding stream that would make finding a solution viable and provide the resources for the good work of the ARCH to be more successful. One part of a possible answer would be a Tourism Public Improvement District (TPID) that could annually provide $4 to $8 Million to address homelessness (through a combination of direct and matching funding).

This would take the form of a 1 percent to 2 percent increase in the hotel tax paid by tourists and this tax would be separate and in addition to the hotel venue taxes used for a convention center expansion. Such an increase can only be

Volume IX, Number 4

Langford, César E. López Linares, Genoveva Rodriguez, Diana Sanchez

PUBLISHER/EDITOR // Gavin Lance Garcia info@todoaustin.com

PRODUCTION SERVICES // Anthony Garcia

ART DIRECTOR // Dave McClinton dmdesigninc.com EDITOR //Lesly Reynaga // lesly@todoaustin.com MANAGING EDITOR // Meredith C. Cox meredith@todoaustin.com ASSOCIATE EDITORS // Liz Lopez, Monica Peña, Katie Walsh, Erica Stall Wiggins, Yvonne Lim Wilson CONTRIBUTING STAFF // Rose Di Grazia, Callie

CONTRIBUTORS // Alka Bhanot, Roy Casagranda, Cat Cardenas, Matthew Chester, Cindy Casares, Evelyn C. Castillo, Lobo Corona, Nora De LaRosa, Laura Donnelly Gonzalez, Mark Guerra, Mari Hernandez, Yadira Izquierdo, Chaille Jolink, Ryan Jordan, Ali Khataw, Ramey Ko, Harish Kotecha, Sonia Kotecha, Julia Lee, Isabel Lopez-Aguilar, Cristina Parker, Rian Rendon, Carola Rivera, Paul Saldaña, Marion Sanchez, Sameer Shah, Blake Shanley, Dani Slabaugh, Corey Tabor, Rama Tiru, Blanca Valencia, Lesley Varghese, Lichen Zhen ONLINE EDITION // TODOAustin.com

levied under state law with the hotel industry’s support and industries typically do not want taxes raised on their products. However, indications are that the Austin hotel industry would participate in providing such a funding stream to deal with the community priority of downtown homelessness if it were part of a package that also included the expansion of the convention center.

Most of the hard decisions we need to make as a community require trade-offs and balancing interests and priorities, and rarely present options that are clearly only right or only wrong.

The possible expansion of the convention center is one such issue. On balance, it seems to me that the possibility of a convention center expansion may well present the best opportunity to align our community and build the critical mass of support, political will, and funding streams necessary to deliver community goals too long delayed.

I have had several reservations about an expansion of the convention center, even though it would be funded by visitors to Austin rather than Austin taxpayers.

These reservations would largely be addressed if: • the first floor or two of any expansion was “activated” with uses such as restaurants and retail that could be enjoyed by Austinites in addition to visitors; • an expansion were designed in a way that preserved the critical elements of our downtown street grid; • the city’s property and sales tax base would be enhanced with the active uses on the first floor or two and with office or residential uses made of the airspace above the expansion (which should also contribute to affordable and mixed-income housing opportunities downtown); • an expansion package also included funding for the other community needs identified above.

It now appears that these concerns can be met. If so, we have a unique opportunity and should act.

COVER // Austin Pride TODO Austin // Multicultural Media for All of Austin. TODO Austin is a free print and online journal for all of Austin highlighting our multicultural heritage and promoting the concept of community in an ethnically diverse city.

Circulation throughout Austin, from the Westside’s Pennybacker Bridge to the Eastside’s Montopolis Bridge.

TODO Austin is published by Spark Awakened Publishing. © 2017 Spark Awakened Publishing. All rights reserved.

The views expressed here are the authors and should not be taken to represent those of Spark Awakened Publishing or of any of its associates or partners.

ADVERTISING/SUBMISSIONS/EDITORIAL: info@todoaustin.com, 512.538.4115 TODO AUSTIN // AUG 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 03

KLRU-TV, Austin PBS broadcast 18.1 / cable 9 klru.org

SEE YOUR FAVORITE PBS SHOWS

ANYTIME, ANYWHERE WITH KLRU PBS KIDS 24/7!

KLRU IS PROVIDING THIS FREE, FUN, EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE FOR ALL FAMILIES!

Research consistently shows that PBS Kids resources build literacy skills, boost math learning and foster social-emotional growth.

Learn more at KLRU.org Also This Month

Great British Baking Show Follow the trials and tribulations of passionate amateur bakers whose goal is to be named the U.K.’s best.

Friday, Aug. 4th at 8 pm and 9 pm

Ireland’s Wild Coast Wildlife cameraman Colin Stafford-Johnson takes viewers on an authored odyssey along Ireland’s rugged Atlantic coast.

Tuesday, Aug. 8th at 8 pm

Ken Burns: America’s Storyteller Join Tom Hanks and more for a tribute to the acclaimed filmmaker and an exclusive look at the upcoming production THE VIETNAM WAR. klru.org/vietnam

Tuesday, Aug. 15th at 8 pm

KLRU-TV, Austin PBS is community supported. More than 85% of our funding comes from the public. PLEASE CONSIDER INVESTING IN KLRU.

August is a busy month at the Carver with First Saturday’s at the Carver on Saturday, August 5, 12:30 p.m. The free, oncea-month event is created for people of color that should not be missed. This event will celebrates a range of themes each month. It’s family friendly, diverse, and the programming is intelligent. Activities, music, vendors, discussions, and more.

On Friday, August 11, the film “That’s My Face: A Raisin in the Sun” is screened in the dance studio.

Come by the library and the Cultural Center for a full day of science-based fun on Saturday, August 12, 1 p.m. Learn about the different types of engineering, create a carnival-themed ride with littlebits gizmos, attend an astronomy show in a mobile planetarium and so much more!

Austin Summer Musical for Children presents “The Jungle Book” August 12-27 at the Boyd Vance Theater at the George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center.

The show is geared towards children 2-12 and lasts about an hour. You do need a ticket but the good news is, tickets are free. Tickets are available 30 minutes before each show and this year we are doing select shows for online ticket reservation.

Among highlights this August at the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural are music and poetry.

Upcoming events at the Asian American Resource Center for August include:

On Friday, August 4 at 8 p.m. in the Black Box Theatre, enjoy being part of the fourth session of “Live at the MACC,” which will feature rock guitarist and singer-songwriter “Sefo.” He has traveled internationally as the lead guitarist for Grammy winner Franco De Vita and played in world renowned venues such as Radio City Music Hall and Madison Square Garden.

Monday, July 31 through August 4, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. | AARC Summer Camp: Asian Adoptee Camp A one-week session, in which young adoptees engage in cultural arts activities relevant to Asian and Asian American history, heritage and identity. Ages 8-12. Registration required. In Classrooms 2. AARC Produced.

“Home is Where the Heart Is” youth poetry contest, presented by the MACC’s Education Department, would like to invite youth (ages 4-18) to write a creative poem that speaks to their ideas of “home.” All poetry submissions will be typed and featured in a booklet in our “Home is Where the Heart Is” community gallery exhibit. One winner will be chosen to read their poem during our “Fond Memories of Rainey Street” program on Saturday, August 12, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

For more information, call or e-mail Marina Islas, Education Coordinator at (512) 974-3786 or marina.islas@austintexas. gov. Questions to consider: 1) What does “home” mean to you?; 2) Why is “home” important? Submission deadline is Monday, August 7.

Saturday, August 12, 4-6:30 p.m. | AARC Planet Cinema: The Tale of Princess Kaguya Based on a 10th century Japanese folktale, this animated film tells the story of a young girl called “Little Bamboo,” who grows by leaps and bounds. The family believes that she is destined for a different life in the city as a princess. Directed by Isao Takahata. Rated PG. Free in the Ballroom AARC Produced.

Saturday, August 19, 1-3 p.m. | AARC Culture & Fashion Series Explore Asian culture through a fashion lens! Free, RSVP Required. In Community Room 8. AARC Produced Ongoing Seniors events include Monday-Thursday, 9:30-11:30 a.m. | RICE: Senior Tea & Coffee. Free in Community Room 8. MondayThursday, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | RICE: Senior Lunch Social. Free in Community Room 8.

Visit www.austintexas.gov/aarc and subscribe to our newsletter for more great events.

‘Instead of a wall, build a bridge of opportunity’

By BNHR

In the month of July, the International Organization on Migration reports 83 migrants dead or missing along the length of the U.S.-Mexican border. They estimate 231 have died so far this year, with more than five months still to go Here in El Paso, so far this year, eleven persons have already drown trying to cross the waters of the Rio Grande, an increase from 2016, again with five more months to go. These deaths come with more than two decades of precedent, where every year 300-to-500 people have died and the total now surpasses 10,000.

These deaths are intensely saddening. Some of the migrants who died over this past week came fleeing for their lives, and instead fell victims to the dangers lurking in the deserts, rivers, and vehicles they encountered along their path. Some came to reunite with family, and instead have made that separation more permanent and profound. Some came determined to follow their dreams, dreams never to be realized. All of them are people who will never see the better life they sought for themselves and their families here in the United States. We mourn these losses.

These deaths are also profoundly enraging. The simple fact is that these deaths were unnecessary and each and every one of them could and should have been avoided. The root cause behind every migrant death at the U.S.-Mexico border is a U.S. immigration system detached from the realities of our world, our society, and our economy. Our policies and enforcement practices deny the basic humanity of the people seeking to partake in the joy of our society. Our immigration policies and enforcement practices cost people their lives.

U.S. Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Ranking Democrat on the House Ways & Means Tax Policy Subcommittee spoke on the House Floor on July 26 in support of the immigrant community and against Rep. John Carter’s amendment to the Republicans’ so-called “Security Minibus” Appropriations bill, which would begin funding the Trump border wall. Rep. Doggett said:

leading the world, a wall is about trying to shut off the rest of the world. Ignored today, of course, is the history of how poorly walls have worked to stop desperate people. Most all of those who are coming to America, risking their lives, suffocating in the back of a truck, going over a perilous desert -they’re not here to cause us harm. They’re not here to do wrong and mooch off our social services.

They’re here to escape violence or provide a little hope to their family. And they do it by taking the dirtiest, toughest jobs in our society, as immigrants have done since the very founding of our nation. A wall only makes their path more perilous without offering us more security.

“Last year, Trump’s most famous and oftrepeated claim was building a wall that

Mexico would pay for. But this year, we just have one broken Trump campaign promise after another. Today, we have confirmation that Trump is just putting taxpayers on the hook to pay for another section of a wall. A wall of broken campaign promises.

Instead of a wall, we ought to be building opportunity.

“As Austin Mayor Steve Adler said, ‘Bridges make money and walls cost money.’ Building a Trump boondoggle in the desert at the same time he says we can’t afford medical research, or educational opportunity, or job training, just shows how backward his priorities are. Let’s oppose a wall of ignorance, a wall of prejudice, and create a bridge of opportunity. To achieve both true security and economic growth, we need to reject this narrow-minded approach in favor of comprehensive immigration reform.”

“For our Nation of immigrants, a wall rejects our very history. A wall is not about America TODO AUSTIN // AUG 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 05

Capital City Black Film Festival shaping Austin’s film culture

By Meredith C. Cox

Austin has long been an envied hotbed of technological start-ups and live music, but in the last decade Austin has also grown into a city with a coveted film culture. Thanks to players like the Alamo Drafthouse, the Moody College of Communication at UT, the Austin Film Society, Fantastic Fest, the SXSW Film Conference, the 48 Hour Film Project, Cine Las Americas, Indie Meme Film Festival, the Asian American Film Festival, the Austin Gay and Lesbian International Film Festival, plus many other, Austin has steadily grown its cred as a destination not just for experiencing film, but also as a host for cuttingedge film festivals.

The Capital City Black Film Festival is one of these events that has helped shaped Austin’s film culture. Now in its fifth year, the CCBFF was created to showcase the best new black independent films from established as well as up-and-coming filmmakers. The festival also serves as an important event to meet, learn from, and network with people who are making waves

in front of and behind the camera, and to bring together talented African Americans involved in media and the film industry.

dancing partner/brother (Vondie Curtis-Hall). “The Reason,” based on the William Sirls book, follows a small-town pastor (Louis Gossett, Jr.) whose son hasn’t spoken a single word in 38 years, and a mother whose five-year-old boy has leukemia, as a mysterious man is sent to give them hope.

While the festival started small, it’s grown quickly in the past five years. In 2013, CCBFF kicked off its inaugural year with a two-day screening of independent films expressing the African American experience. In 2014, the event was even bigger, opening up to international films and filmmakers worldwide. By 2015, they had expanded with year-round events and opportunities to experience the works of black artists and filmmakers further across the globe. In 2016, the festival attracted not just independent filmmakers, but major film studios, actors, and industry professionals in record numbers.

Oscar winner Louis Gossett, Jr., will be present at each screening and will participate in a talkback with the audience.

In addition to presenting the films, Gossett will also be honored at the film festival’s Opening Night Gala on August 17. Each year, the Opening Night Gala highlights the arts and honors those who have paved the way for artists and entertainers of color.

This year, the CCBFF has more planned than ever before. Now spanning five days, the film festival will include film screenings, panels, workshops, contests, networking, keynote speakers, and a full awards ceremony following the screenings.

Of course, you can also expect the standard galas, opening and closing parties that have become part of every good film festival.

“We are incredibly excited and humbled that Louis Gossett, Jr., will be with us as we celebrate our 5th Anniversary. His are the shoulders on which we stand as we present the wealth of filmmaking and acting talent that exists in the African American community,” said Winston G. Williams, Executive Director of the CCBFF. “We hold Mr. Gossett in the highest regard, as do millions around the world, for his character and integrity, his immense talent, and the magic he brings to the stage and screen.”

CCBFF is also screening the world premiere of two feature films: “Breaking Brooklyn” and “The Reason.” “Breaking Brooklyn” tells the story of a 12-year-old boy with a passion for dance and his brother who are rescued from the streets by an old showman (Louis Gossett, Jr.) who takes them in to live with his estranged former

The Capital City Black Film Festival runs August 1720. More information is available at http://www. capcitybff.com/.

Good Times at Güero’s For great tunes and great rita’s!

Please join us for live music on our outside jardin stage, every Wednesday through Sunday. THANKS TO THE FANS & BANDS WHO SUPPORT US!!!

AUGUST Line-up

TACO BAR

1412 S. Congress Avenue • Austin, Texas 78704 Open Weekdays 11am-11pm; Weekends 8am-11pm

OUTDOOR SHOWS ARE “WEATHER PERMITTING” -----------------------------------------------------------------------WED 8/2 SUN RADIO SHOW @ 6:00 THU 8/3 LOS FLAMES @ 6:30 FRI 8/4 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30 -----------------------------------------------------------------------SAT 8/5 THE BREW @ 2:30 / EL TULE’ @ 6:30 SUN 8/6 MCLEMORE AVENUE @ 12:00 / THE RECUPERATORS @ 3:00 WED 8/9 SUN RADIO SHOW @ 6:00 THU 8/10 JORGE TAMAYO & FRIENDS @ 6:30 FRI 8/11 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30 -----------------------------------------------------------------------SAT 8/12 THE TEXAS TYCOONS @ 2:30 / M.C. & THE MYSTIX @ 6:30 SUN 8/13 TRENT TURNER @ 12:00 / BLUE MIST @ 3:00 WED 8/16 SUN RADIO SHOW @ 6:00 THU 8/17 TOM BEN LINDLEY @ 6:30 FRI 8/18 ALVIN CROW @ 6:30 -----------------------------------------------------------------------SAT 8/19 JIM STRINGER @ 2:30 / SEBASTIAN Y SU BANDA @ 6:30 SUN 8/20 TRACIE LYNN @ 12:00 / MITCH WEBB Y LOS SWINDLES @ 3:00 WED 8/23 SUN RADIO SHOW @ 6:00 THU 8/24 DON LEADY & HIS ROCKIN’ REVUE @ 6:30 FRI 8/25 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30 -----------------------------------------------------------------------SAT 8/26 BLUES IN THE NIGHT @ 2:30 / GLEN COLLINS @ 6:30 SUN 8/27 TRIO MUSICAL @ 12:00 / CHICKEN STRUT @ 3:00 WED 8/30 SUN RADIO SHOW @ 6:30 THU 8/31 TEX THOMAS & HIS NEW DANGLIN’ WRANGLERS @ 6:30

www.GuerosTacoBar.com

Quality of Life Advisory Commission, the fight for equality is not yet over. This year, it will be especially important for the city to celebrate the strides that the queer community has overcome, while also acknowledging the work still to be done.

On August 26, the Austin PRIDE Parade will sweep through Congress Avenue for its 28th annual march from the Texas State Capitol. The parade — which will feature approximately 150 groups, floats, and performances — is the culmination of a week of festivities and events across the city in celebration of LGBTQ pride. The theme of this year’s event is VIVA!, which organizers at the Austin Gay and Lesbian Pride Foundation (AGLPF) hope will highlight the diversity of our city’s queer community.

The colorful weekend kicks off on Thursday, August 24 with the fifth annual WERK Fashion Show in ACL Live Moody Theater. Attendees of this event will enjoy entertainment by RuPaul Drag Race winner Bianca Del Rio and the famed and comical Coco Peru. This year’s show will feature designs by nine Project Runway contestants, as well as performances by Raja, Shangela, Raven, and Eden XO. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m.

Proceeds of the show will go to benefit the Austin LGBTQ Community Center. Tickets and info can be found online at www.werkfashionshow.com.

PRIDE Festival will take place at Edward Rendon Sr. Park at Festival Beach on Saturday, August 26. Doors to this family-friendly event will open at 11 a.m. and festivities will continue until 6:30 p.m. The event will feature games and carnival rides, a family area, drinks, food, and over 150 booths of local non-profits organizations and businesses.

The PRIDE Festival is the largest annual LGBTQ fundraising event in Central Texas, with dozens of participating non-profit organizations and social clubs informing and interacting with festival attendees. Austin PRIDE Festival is also proud to be the setting for Central Texas’s largest HIV testing day of the year, where several local services can reach those populations most at-risk for HIV. The Festival will boast two entertainment areas: the Main Stage and the East Stage, each showcasing an impressive lineup of musical artists and pop culture icons. Attendees can look forward to performances by Lisa Lisa, Betty Who, Cupcakke and AB Soto. Tickets to the festival can be found online at www.austinpride.org/tickets. Additionally, those who would like to get involved in the festival may register to volunteer on the official website. General admission for this event is $17 and is free for volunteers. Registration for volunteer spots will end two weeks prior to the Festival and Parade.

Make sure you head over directly from the Festival to stake out the best viewing area for the PRIDE Parade. Free to the public, the parade is Austin PRIDE week’s largest and most celebrated event. Last year’s PRIDE Parade drew over 350,000 attendees and Director Alejandro Victoria looks forward to “having this year be even bigger and better than years past”. Given recent events — like the introduction of transgender-discriminating bathroom legislation and the election of a President who threatens to reverse social gains — the Austin queer community has an urgent cause to take to the streets and march in the name of pride.

Though queer Austinites are fortunate to live in a city with a supportive mayor, city council, and a new LGBTQ 08 TODO AUSTIN // AUG 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM

There is nonetheless plenty to celebrate and Parade is the perfect opportunity for spectators and participants to do just that! The Parade, which kicks off at 8 p.m., will feature two emcee stages — one on Congress Ave. at the Paramount Theatre, and one on the rooftop of Rain on 4th. This year, Chris Saldana of CBS Austin and Holly Marie Combs will be among the masters of ceremonies. The Parade route will start at the Capitol grounds, where over 150 floats and groups will march down Congress, through the Warehouse District on 4th street, and end at Republic Square. Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to attend, so parking will be limited. Public transportation, ride sharing, and carpooling are strongly encouraged for all PRIDE Weekend events. Organizers have also confirmed that much of the Parade route will be handicap accessible.

Those to whom one weekend of PRIDE is not enough are in luck! There are plenty of other official PRIDE events, leading up to big weekend. These include Bobby and Topher’s Big Gay Brunch, the PRIDE SPLASH pool party at Barton Springs, and the Official Women’s Party to name a few. For tickets, dates, and more detailed information, check out the events section at www.facebook.com/austinpride.

As always, attendees can feel at ease purchasing tickets from and donating to PRIDE Austin. The Austin Gay and Lesbian Pride Foundation (AGLPF) is the non-profit organization that organizes and executes the annual PRIDE Celebration and Stonewall Rally. AGLPF formed the Austin PRIDE Cares program in 2011 to further its mission to educate, resource, and connect the LGBTQ community in Central Texas. A component of the program includes a board evaluation of annual financials, and, when in surplus, a donation of proceeds back into the community.

Since its inception, the Austin PRIDE Cares program has donated over $125,000 to several non-profit organizations and causes.

A final tip to attendees from Director Alejandro Victoria: “Dress lightly, wear plenty of sunscreen, drink lots of water, and most importantly, HAVE FUN!” We at TODO Austin are pumped about the festival, and we hope you will be too!

To Do Música

By Liz Lopez

BROWN SOUND NEWS At eight years old, Mia debuted in December 2015 with her first recording, followed by a music video. Mia (Mia Music) has steadily released new music in the last year and a half, and last month she released the new single “Boom, Boom, Boom” with distribution to iTunes, Amazon and all popular digital retailers. “Boom, Boom, Boom” is produced

by Raul Sanchez at The Music Ranch studio in San Antonio, Texas. Just one week after its release to radio stations, the song has been well received by Texas radio stations with airplay, as well as in other states. Her debut album is scheduled for release later this year. On July 16th the video for this single was created at Tumble Tech in Cedar Park by Ryan Bazan Films.

Subsequently, Mia’s recording of “Lost Boy” was released July 5 and is available on all digital platforms. She is a talented entertainer and has potential for success in the music industry in diverse genres. Aside from her involvement in music, she excels academically and in various sports activities.

During her performance at the Pan Am Recreation Center’s Hillside Concert Series on July 4, the announcement was made that Mia will receive a City of Austin proclamation on October 5 where she will perform at City Hall for the City Council members and the public present. For details and updates about her music, visit the Facebook/ MiaMusic page.

For 35 years, the National Endowment for the Arts has presented National Heritage Fellowships to celebrate and honor master artists working in the folk and traditional arts. The NEA announced San Antonio-based Eva Ybarra, Conjunto accordionist and bandleader, as one of the nine 2017 National Heritage Fellowship recipients. Each recipient will receive $25,000 and will be honored in Washington, DC this September. “The National Endowment for the Arts is proud to honor these individuals for artistic mastery, as well as a commitment to sharing their traditions,” said NEA Chairman Jane Chu. “Our nation is a richer, more vibrant place because of these artists and the art forms they practice.”

The NEA will celebrate the 2017 National Heritage Fellows at two events this fall in Washington, DC. The National Heritage Fellowships Awards Ceremony will take place at the Library of Congress on Thursday, Sep. 14 at 5:30 p.m. and the National Heritage Fellowships Concert will take place on Friday, Sep. 15 at 8:00 p.m. at George Washington University’s Lisner Auditorium. The concert will also be webcast live at arts.gov.

Ruiz that is rescheduled for 9 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 11 at The Townsend, 718 Congress Avenue #100.

Tickets: $15 advance, $20 Door. More information at thetownsendaustin.com.

RECOMMENDED SHOWS

Mauricio Callejas announced that he will be performing a show in Panama on August 11 at Sanborns Multiplaza, along with Ismael Torres (Argentina) and Johathan Méndez (Costa Rica).

On July 4, the legendary Manuel “Cowboy” Donley (born in 1927) took the stage alongside his daughter, Sylvia, to perform at the first of four Hillside Concert Series showcases for the 59th year. Mr. Donley is one of the many Austin musicians that have graced the stage over the decades of this historical event. Celebrating more than 70 years on stage, the 2014 NEA National Heritage Fellow has a weekly residence at Little Mexico Restaurant every Thursday from 7-9 p.m.

For information on this and other performances, visit the Manuel “Cowboy” Donley Facebook page.

Rancho Alegre Radio hosts, Piper Lemoine and Frank Baldomero, continue to present their new weekly Sunday Tardeadas from 6 - 8 p.m. at One2-One Bar, 1509 S Lamar Blvd. Ste 600. Sunday, Aug. 8 is Art Tigerina Unplugged; Sunday, Aug. 13 is Angel de Oro y los Champs; Sunday, Aug. 20 is the Roger Arocha y Su Conjunto (based out of San Antonio). The traditional Conjunto band has their new CD available online nationwide and in local San Antonio record shops. For more details on the shows, visit ranchoalegreradio.org.

Tejano Music Award winning music artist, Ram Herrera, was hospitalized in July with a severe medical condition and, for now, he will delay any performances for a number of months.

Patricia Vonne

Eva Ybarra. Del Norte photo

The Selena Tribute band, Bidi Bidi Banda, recently returned from touring, including a performance at the National Council of La Raza’s conference in Arizona. They continue performing locally and will be on the road again at the Shipping & Receiving Bar on Saturday, Aug. 5 at 9 p.m. 201 S Calhoun St., Fort Worth. Find ticket information at ticketfly.com.

Mia

Leonard Davila’s Street People band took a break last year and has regrouped for 2017. The band photo now includes Clemencia Zapata and Brad Taylor. The Street People Facebook page announced they are working on tunes for the “Los Callejeros” album. This last month, they have been performing. Visit their Facebook page for updates on music and shows.

Haydn Vitera announced he will be having an upcoming Metal/Mariachi project “El Cascabel.”

Visit his Facebook page for updates on the release.

Austin-based guitarist Whiskey Jonez is an up and coming artist best known for his live performance and freestyle solo work over dynamic and high-energy instrumentals. Many of the instrumentals are also produced and spun live by his wife GiN Jonez aka DJ GiN. He was on the Eddie Arevalo’s Spotlite TV show this summer and is currently working on a new project with Mike Jones to be released in 2017.

Also be on the lookout for his first solo project, “The Whiskey Jonez E.P.,” to be released in 2017.

For updates visit whiskeyjonez.com Patricia Vonne’s animation film, “Huerta de San Vicente,” a homage to Spanish poet Federico García Lorca, won the Best Animation Award at the Madrid International Film Festival. She will be back in Texas for the double-bill concert with Alex

“Tango Night with Hora Once Live.” Hora Once is a project of collaborative efforts that began when local Austin harp/guitarist Adam Carney and accordionist Mike Maddux teamed up with vocalist Ana Maria Barajas of Colombia. The group creates music with influences of Tango, Brazilian Choro, and Andean folk music. Barajas is a multilingual, classically trained vocalist; Carney performs on his 7-string guitar and his custom made 14-string harp guitar; and Maddux performs on his accordion and custom-made bandoneon. Hora Once composes original pieces with haunting melodies and moving rhythms with story-telling lyrics of heartfelt poetry. adamcarneymusic.com/hora-once.

Thursday, August 24 from: 9 p.m. - midnight. Live music *DJ on the breaks. Suggested $5 donation.

Esquina Tango, 209 Pedernales St. Austin esquinatangoaustin.com ---Summertime Psychedelic Tex-Mex Polka Party features Los Texmaniacs, Brave Combo and The Gulf Coast Playboys on Saturday, Aug. 19, 7:30 p.m. - 1 a.m., at Antone’s, 305 E. 5th St. Ticket information at ticketfly.com ---The Jonas Alvarez Band will be performing Friday, Aug. 4 (duo) at the Hills Lakeway Country Club from 6 - 9 p.m. and Friday, Aug. 18 at Central Market Westgate, 6:30 - 9 p.m. Find their music on iTunes.

For more information, visit jonasalvarezmusic.com and their Facebook page.

---Indrajit Banerjee invites you to enjoy an evening of Indian Classical Music in an intimate setting downtown at The Townsend, 718 Congress Avenue #100. Tickets are $15 advance, $20 at the door. Friday, Aug. 4 at 8 - 11 p.m. For more updates, visit the “Raga Night” Facebook page.

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Indian virtuosos on IFA program Hailing as a child prodigy with lineage deeply rooted on both sides, music is in Abhishek Raghuram’s blood. Possessing a combination of virtuosity, aesthetics and intellect, Raghuram has created a new genre in the field of music that, according to critics is “food for the intellect, mind, heart and soul.” He could very well be on his way to creating a new Gharana, something that could have a big impact in the Indian music world.

of 7. A fine performer and composer with a deep interest to innovate and explore the art form, his specialization is his precise fingering technique and the fine balance of sounds between the treble and bass heads of the mridangam. Kumar continues to evolve a style of his own live and on recordings as a soloist and as part of ensembles.

The concert is free for IFA members and $25 GA for the public, with $50 block reserved seating.

Students, seniors and children under age 5 pay $15. Tickets available at the door and online at www.austinifa.org.

The inspiring young vocalist will be one of three featured artists at India Fine Art’s program on Sunday, August 20, 5 p.m. at Bates Recital Hall on the campus of the University of Texas.

Also featured is H.N. Bhaskar, the son and disciple of H.K. Narasimha Murthy and Smt. H. N. Rajalakshm.

Bhaskar. The grade A violinist of All India Radio and Donrdarsham is widely noted for his emotive and adroit playing and is one of the most sought after violinists of the genre, accompanying top-notch artists as he travels the globe for accompaniment and solo performances.

The much sought after mridangam artist from India, Patri Satish Kumar, was initiated into the art of percussion by his mother Padmavathy, a renowned violinist and had his debut at the age

Abhishek Raghuram

Genuine Joe Coffeehouse

By Rose Di Grazia The living room is not what this place is called, but it certainly should be. It is called Genuine Joe Coffeehouse. Most loyal patrons who visit it daily think of it as their very own living room--I know I do. I have been going there for years. The building is about 100 years old according to Mrs. Evans, who bought the house in the 1960s and claims she discovered an old newspaper in the place which dated back to 1916. Josh Brown, a former Genuine Joe manager, has taken it over since former owner Dave Swainston and his partner retired not too long ago.

play new tunes. A comedy group has also formed since Josh took over the space. Now you can have comedy, coffee and cake!

So stop by Genuine Joe for a great cup of java and pastries galore. The coffee is always made right and you won’t go hungry with the breakfast tacos, pastries, cookies and bars which are too numerous to mention. Bring your laptop and set up or bring a good read and sit in the comfy sitting room up front or find a seat in the cellar to work. Patrons can also sit outside and enjoy the quiet of the porch and deck outside. Genuine Joe offers genuinely good coffee and camaraderie.

More information at genuinejoecoffee.com.

Josh Brown has lived in Austin since 1994.

He was born in Alaska and grew up in New Mexico and later moved to Colorado before making Austin his home. Brown feels that Austin and coffee shops have become more about product and less about personal connections. But in his eyes Genuine Joe’s is not worried about being cool. He wants to keep the coffee shop feel and has no plans to serve alcohol at this old Austin preservation.

He has a “community first” philosophy. At this eclectic shop, writers groups and singer/ songwriter groups come together on certain days of the month to recite their works or

CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Travis County VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT “We both grew up in big families, surrounded by love and people that would do anything for us,” says KATELYN BROUGH. “We want to be there for kids who don’t have that.” Katelyn had been volunteering with CASA of Travis County for three years when she met Austin Trees during a night out with friends. They hit it off right away, bonding over their ambitions, love of the outdoors, and playful spirits. Hearing about Katelyn’s work and seeing her dedication to kids inspired Austin, so he applied to volunteer with CASA, too. Now they work cases together, serving nine kids between the two of them. “It definitely brought us closer as a couple,” she explains. “And it’s just a lot more fun doing it together.” Both Katelyn and Austin are in their twenties and even younger at heart, so they enjoy being active with the kids on their cases, tossing 10 TODO AUSTIN // AUG 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM

a football or going to a movie, even bringing along their English Bulldog, Bruce. Being a couple, they love that they get to model what healthy relationships look like for the kids they serve. They make a great team and balance each other on their cases, Austin’s calm demeanor complimenting Katelyn’s organization and attention to detail. “On a bad day, it’s nice to be able to fall back on each other,” says Austin. “She’s definitely the Batman. I’m more of the Robin.”

CELEBRATING

DIVERSITY

BRIDGE2BRIDGE From Montopolis Bridge to 360 Bridge, Everything Austin

Celebrate the divas of urban music, from Grace Jones to Tina Turner, Janet Jackson to Beyoncé, Aaliyah to Chaka Khan to Rihanna. Ladies First tribute is Friday, Aug. 4, doors and music at 10 p.m. with $10 cash at door only cover at Empire Control Room & Garage. Hosted by Body Rock ATX, DJ Chorizo Funk, and Riders Against the Storm. With DJ Kay Cal on the patio all night. empireatx. com

PARADE OF INDIA TEXAS STATE CAPITOL On Saturday, Aug. 12, the South Asian community in Austin will come together to celebrate the inclusion of their heritage at the historic Texas State Capitol’s south steps. The Parade of India is a festival of cultural diversity in observance of India’s 71st Independence Day. It is open to all and no tickets are needed to attend this familyfriendly event.

India gained independence from the British Empire on Aug. 15, 1947 following an Independence Movement noted for largely nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience led by the Indian National Congress. The holiday is observed throughout India with flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades and cultural events.

The program will start at 10 a.m. with a presentation of the U.S. and Indian national anthems, followed by speeches by State Rep. Celia Israel, of Texas’ House District 50, and Mayor Steve Adler. The parade will showcase groups representing the unique costumes, music and dances from each state in India, as well as local South Asian organizations. Bollywood Dances will be presented by students of Monsoon Dance in the State Capitol rotunda. There will be several information booths along with free Indian food samples and henna artists.

The Parade of India is hosted by Monsoon Dance in partnership with the Indian American Coalition of Texas, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, and Children Rights and You Austin Chapter.

This is the fourth annual celebration of IndianAmerican heritage at the State Capitol and each year marks a greater attendance of hundreds of Austinites coming together to honor cultural diversity in the U.S. Last year, Austin Mayor Steve Adler and State Rep. Celia Israel graced the parade by dancing with the cultural groups and joining as one with the members of the community in attendance.

Everyone is invited to join this festive and colorful celebration of freedom, pride and culture.

Texas State presents a bilingual adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic farce, “The Comedy of Errors,” Aug. 3-5 and 7-9 in the Centennial Hall, room G02, 601 University Drive, San Marcos. The free event, open to the public, centers on two sets of twins who are separated at birth and live in different cities set in Cuba before being unexpectedly reunited. Linguistic confusion leads to humorous chaos.

Austin Symphony’s 15th summer season of free ensemble concerts take place in the Hartman Concert Park in front of the Long Center City Terrace and on Sunday evenings through August 27. Each Sunday a different ensemble will be featured. Aug. 6 is strings, Aug. 13 woodwinds, Aug. 20 brass and Aug. 27 is Big Band.

Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner and blanket. austinsymphony.org Ready for a day of frosty indulgence and summer fun? Chill with friends, family and Fido and scoop up the best frozen treats in Austin from all your faves and local newcomers at the 11th annual Austin Ice Cream Festival on Saturday, Aug. 12, at Fiesta Gardens. Games, contests, live music, movie and frozen treats from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Tickets start at $15 inc. three+ ice cream tickets. austinicecreamfestival.com.

The annual RAS Day festival is a community collaboration of local organizations and businesses featuring familyfriendly interactive activities and live music at Kenny Dorham’s Backyard and Empire Control Room & Garage on Friday-Saturday, Aug. 18-19. The eclectic lineup includes PJ Morton, Raul Midon, Nik West, Riders Against the Storm, Jackie Venson and many more. Info at rasdayfest.com Roy Lozano’s Ballet Folklorico’s Noche de Folklor highlights some 50 dancers from the performing company and school of dance. The much anticipated rite of summer showcases colorful costumes and lively dances that reflect the rich and traditional culture of Mexico. Bring blankets and lawn chairs for the production at Zilker Hillside Theater, Saturday, Aug. 26, 7:30 p.m.

Free. balletfolkloricodetexas.com.

Singer-songwriter Carrie Rodriguez finds beauty in the cross-pollination of diverse traditions. A passionate performer, she melds fiery fiddle playing, electrifying vocals and a fresh interpretation of new and classic songs with an “Ameri-Chicana” attitude. Her Spanish/ English album “Lola,” is both a return to her musical roots.

Wednesday, Aug. 30, 7:30 p.m. at Rollins Studio Theatre. thelongcenter.org

Austin Bat Fest CONGRESS AVENUE BRIDGE

By Meredith C. Cox

Austin seems to love bats, which is great, because we have a lot of bats. You can tell because if you happen to pass over the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge on any summer evening between 6-8 p.m., you’ll see not only one-and-a-half million Mexican free-tailed bats taking off, but masses of locals and tourists alike crowding the sidewalk to get a close up view as the bats head out for their nightly feeding.

The bridge (commonly referred to as Congress Bridge) was partially renovated during a 1980 Lady Bird Lake renewal project to specifically help create a home for Austin’s bat population, which is actually a species of special concern since it’s particularly vulnerable to habitat destruction. In return, the bats provide a nightly flight show (bats have the fastest horizontal speed of any animal) as well as eat literally 30,000 pounds of insects every day. Austin’s bats are a win-win.

Clearly I like bats. And so do Austinites, as we have built an entire festival around the little fellows. This year is the 13th production of Bat Fest – a one day festival featuring three stages with live music, 75 arts and crafts vendors, food and drinks, children’s activities, and other bat activities. Yes, it’s a bat-themed festival. Performers include Bone Thugs N Harmony, Scott Stapp, Paul Wall, Sam Riggs, Sick Puppies, and many more.

There’s also a bat costume contest, with a $100 prize going to the top costume. Kids and adults are judged separately, so no worries about competing against an adorable three-year-old. You won’t win if all you do is break out your Batman costume – get creative, Austin.

The festival happens on Saturday, August 19, at the Congress Avenue Bridge. Tickets are $15. For more info visit http://www.roadwayevents.com/event/bat-fest/ TODO AUSTIN // AUG 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 11

FREE

AUGUST 2017 FEATURED EVENTS: Anime Film Series

The Tale Of The Princess Kaguya, Asian American Resource Center, August 12th, 4pm A Letter To MOMO, Mexican American Cultural Center, August 14, 6pm From Up On Poppy Hill, Carver Museum & Cultural Center, August 15, 6pm Miss Hokusai, Dougherty Arts Center, August 16, 6pm When Marnie Was There, Ney Museum, August 17, 6pm

The Mahogany Project: Dynasty, August 4th, 5th & 6th

Theatrical performance detailing experiences of Black Queer Men in Central Texas Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd. More information at: austintexas.gov/dac

Saturday Morning Drawing Salons August 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th 10am-noon Ney Museum, 304 East 44th St. More information at: elisabetneymuseum.org

Home Is Where the Heart Is, August-October 14

Photography of local Mexican American owned homes dating back to late 1800s Mexican American Cultural Center, 600 Red River St. More information at: austintexas.gov/esbmacc

Visit our Facebook page for all upcoming events! facebook.com/ArtsInParks The City of Austin is proud to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require assistance for participation in our programs or use of our facilities, please call 512-974-3914.

OPENiNg WEEkEND! FriDAy/SAturDAy, SEPtEMBEr 8/9 Long Center’s Dell Hall n Concert at 8:00 p.m.

“Concert Conversations” with Bob Buckalew at 7:10 p.m.

Let your Austin Symphony Orchestra transport you and that special someone on a musical odyssey through Europe as it opens its 107th season with pieces by Wolfgang Amadé Mozart and Francis Poulenc, featuring Mozart’s popular Paris Symphony. Also hear local favorite Anton Nel perform Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 15 and Poulenc’s Concert champêtre for Harpsichord and Orchestra.

Still want more? How about enjoying activities like playing on stringed instruments provided by our friends at Violins Etc., texting with ASO staff and musicians using #aso107, and capturing a memory in front of our photo wall?

Something for everyone CONCErt SPONSOr

SEASON SPONSOr

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(512) 476-6064 or austinsymphony.org All artists, programs, and dates subject to change.

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