www.todoaustin.comVOLUME VII / MAR 2016

Central Health SE

KLRU Chicano Movt.

Holi Fest of Colors

Tameca Jones

Sta

rted

fro

m t

he

bo

tto

m...

Wolf Alice | Photo by Christy Sanchez

The Wall of Excellence, Robert Mezquiti, 2016

NOMINATION CATEGORIES

GUIDELINES FOR NOMINATION

CATEGORIES

GUIDELINES FOR NOMINATION

CATEGORIES

GUIDELINES FOR NOMINATION

CATEGORIES

AWARD OF EXCELLENCE 2016Nominate someone from your community today!We are now accepting nominations for artists and individuals who have made significant & outstanding achievements in Mexican American or Latino cultural arts. Submitting your nomination is easy, visit our website!

THE ARTS: Those working in any medium including visual arts, dance, music, literature, theatre, film, performing arts and history.

PATRONAGE: Those who have made significant contributions or donations in support of the Latino cultural arts, and who have provided in-kind and non-financial support in the Latino cultural arts.

SERVICE: Those who have exhibited outstanding service as a volunteer and/or employee in the Latino cultural arts.

EMERGING ARTIST: Those who have shown innovative and exceptional accomplishments in the Latino cultural arts.

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT OR POSTHUMOUS: Those who have demonstrated years of passion and dedication in the Latino cultural arts.

ARTS EDUCATOR: Those that educate our community about Latino cultural arts.

Nominations due

March 21!

The City of Austin is proud to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require special assistance for participation in our programs or use of our facilities please call 512-974-3772 or 711 Relay Texas.

Visit www.austintexas.gov/esbmacc to download a nomination form!

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

TODO AUSTIN // MAR 2016 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 03

Austin music is hitting the high notes at lastBy Gavin Lance Garcia

The term “struggling musician” has taken on a whole new meaning in Austin. The music industry is at a pivotal point. Conscious decision making is required.

Mayor Steve Adler, after considering opinions from numerous stakeholders, recently introduced the Music and Creative Ecosystem Omnibus Resolution to help regenerate music and the arts.

In the commercial music field, advocates have spent years examining and addressing issues that have long challenged the industry. The result has been studies like the Austin Music Census, Austin Music People’s White Papers, the Economic Impact of Austin Music Study and now City resolution No. 20160303-xxx.

“We don’t need a study to tell us that Austin’s local music industry has suffered under the affordability crisis or that creatives or artists in this city, like so many, are suffering,” said Mayor Adler at the press conference to announce the resolution. “But the news that we had lost 1,200 jobs in the music industry since 2010 was sobering.”

Our music industry is fortunate to have strong organizations advocating on its behalf, like Austin Music People and the Austin Music Foundation, and individuals who were instrumental in offering the Mayor suggestions in drafting his resolution, including past Austin Music Commission Chairs

Brad Spies and Brad Stein, Bobby Garza, Jennifer Houlihan, Lindsey Sokol, Graham Reynolds and Frank Rodriguez from the Mayor’s Office.

The Music Commission, with 11 members representing all points of Austin, will do its part to ensure we engage our entire music community to get involved with finding solutions, as well as work with elected officials for necessary resources.

We’ll be seeking private-public partnerships and creative ideas to boost the music economy, including:

1. Develop new music consumers and protect assets. Venues are the lifeblood of music; they serve as the incubator for artists. In addition to marketing to tourists (festivals are flourishing), we need to drive local residents to clubs to keep most of them operating. That will mean encouraging the millennial demographic, ethnic minorities and other groups to support emerging talent. It will mean promoting local music across all 10 City Council Districts. In other words, this isn’t just a “downtown issue” but one that shapes our collective identity.

2. Leverage a larger role for the Austin Music Office. The Music Office needs to find the right balance of its permitting duties and economic development mission. The majority of Don Pitts and his staff’s time is spent on permitting issues. There’s other work to be done, from entertainment licenses to exporting to studying best practices from music capitals.

3. Encourage inclusivity and a diverse arts community. Some sectors have been historically marginalized in the Arts. African-Americans, Anglos and Latino communities have too often worked independently of one another. That will now be addressed through genre development and other initiatives.

The City Council has directed City Manager Marc Ott to “explore options for implementation of the goals and objectives described in the resolution.” The plan of action will be presented to the City Council Economic Opportunity Committee in 90 days. Then, let’s hope, the child is born.

HABLA AustinBarrier-breaking women to be honoredThe City of Austin Commission for Women will induct Montserrat Garibay, Jackie Goodman and Mariben Ramsey into the Austin Women’s Hall of Fame at a reception and ceremony on March 2, 5:30 p.m. in the City Hall Atrium. Guest speakers include Mayor Pro Tem Kathie Tovo and Julia Cuba-Lewis, Austin Commission for Women Chair. The new inductees have made significant public and community service contributions for women in the Austin area and beyond.

Warrant Roundup 3-5-16The 2016 Great Texas Warrant Roundup begins March 5. The roundup targets defendants with traffic, parking, city ordinance, penal code, and higher charge warrants from participating state jurisdictions. Austin Municipal Court will provide options for defendants to take care of violations tied to active warrants and individuals are encouraged to come to the court to resolve their obligations voluntarily. There are two “walk-in” dockets scheduled Monday-Thursday of each week: 8:30 -11 a.m. and 1:30 -3:45 p.m., and two special dockets on Friday, March 4, at those times. 

City launches Pakistan exchange program The City of Austin Economic Development Department Global Business Recruitment and Expansion Division received a grant from the U.S. Embassy, Islamabad to facilitate a two-year entrepreneur exchange program between Austin and Pakistan. ATX+PAK: Launch, a partnership between the City, Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce and Information Technology University in Punjab Pakistan, will connect the vibrant communities. “We are delighted to be in the

position to introduce Austin businesses to talent and expansion opportunities in Pakistan,” said Kevin Johns, Director of Austin Economic Development Department.

City, nonprofits sign homes ‘compact’ A final signature by Mayor Steve Adler on Feb. 12 signified a new interagency collaboration to better deliver government and nonprofit home repair services for Austin residents. More than a dozen City of Austin departments and nonprofit agencies also signed the compact committing to work together to most effectively meet the goal of making homes healthy, safe and sustainable.

Austin PARD NewsAustin Parks and Recreation Department and Brandstetter Carrol Inc. will host kick-off meetings to discuss and collect feedback regarding the development of the Aquatic Master Plan, the process and seek to provide a high level understanding of the existing aquatic system. Meetings are March 7 at Dove Springs Community Rec Center and March 8 at Turner Roberts Rec Center. PARD and TBG Partners is hosting an open house event to display and discuss the current design update for the Alliance Children’s Garden in Butler Park at Austin City Hall Atrium, March 9 at 6 p.m.

Zilker Park pay station changesPARD will implement a new method for collecting Zilker Park entry fees beginning March 5. Up to 30 automated parking pay stations includes all parking areas surrounding the Great Lawn and lots south of Barton Springs Road. Hours of enforcement will be 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. from the first weekend in March through Labor Day. Payment will only be required on weekends, holidays, and special events and there are no fee increases.

Volume VII, Number 11PUBLISHER/EDITOR // Gavin Lance Garcia gavin@todoaustin.com

ART DIRECTOR // Dave McClinton dmdesigninc.com

MANAGING EDITORS // Meredith C. Cox, Alejandra Cueva, Katie Walsh, Erica Stall Wiggins

ASSOCIATE EDITORS // Sonia Kotecha, Liz Lopez, Monica Peña, Genoveva Rodriguez, Yvonne Lim Wilson

CONTRIBUTING STAFF // Cat Cardenas, Evelyn C. Castillo, Alexandra M. Landeros, Callie Langford, Vanessa Maldonado, Diana Sanchez, Blake Shanley, Lesley Varghese

PRODUCTION SERVICES // Anthony Garcia

CONTRIBUTORS // Alka Bhanot, Roy Casagranda, Cindy Casares, Lobo Corona, Nora De LaRosa, Rebecca Gomez, Rose Di Grazia, Laura Donnelly Gonzalez, Mark Guerra, Jamie Helton, Mari Hernandez, Yadira Izquierdo, Chaille Jolink, Ryan Jordan, Ali Khataw, Ramey Ko, Harish Kotecha, Liam Kozma, Julia Lee, Esteban Lopez, Otis Lopez, David Marks, Gabriela Mohamed, Cristina Parker, Raul Rangel Uribe, Jim Rigby, Paul Saldaña, Marion Sanchez, Sameer Shah, Charles Silver, Dani Slabaugh, Jeremi Suri, Corey Tabor, Sergio Tristan, Blanca Valencia, Debora Kuetzpal Vasquez, Tara Veneruso

WEB DESIGN // TODOAustin.com

COVER // SXSW

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. © 2016 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

Delivering diversity in media to Austin

for more than five years, TODO Austin

printed journal, and TODOAustin.

com offer news, opinion, cultural

arts and lifestyle stories written

by, about, and for all ethnic

communities in multicultural Austin.

Chamber partners Marina Bhargava, Tam Hawkins and Mark Madrid held their inaugural district dialogue with CM Ora Houston, seated, in February. Michael Henderson photo

Mayor Steve Adler

04 TODO AUSTIN // MAR 2016 // TODOAUSTIN.COM

Governments in Texas should make everyone feel welcomeBy Charles Silver

In Texas, public officials regularly use public funds and public power in ways that make non-Christians feel like second-class citizens who are not welcome, or at least, not equal.

Gov. Greg Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton did this most recently by supporting the Brewster County sheriff’s effort to put Christian crosses on patrol cars. Before that, Abbott forced the removal from the Capitol of a properly permitted display erected by the Freedom From Religion Foundation that, he claimed, mocked the Christian faith. And before that, Abbott and Paxton supported the efforts of cheerleaders at Kountze High School to use banners to display Bible verses on the football field. The list of publicly endorsed and publicly funded religious activities goes on and on.

Although I believe that these actions violate the U.S. Constitution, the real issue is whether Texans want non-Christians to feel unwelcome

here. And let there be no mistake: Governmental endorsements of any religion alienate people who do not share the favored faith.

Having been born into a Jewish family and learned about the Spanish Inquisition, Cossack-led pogroms in Eastern Europe, and the Holocaust, I can tell you that I do not want a police car bearing a Christian cross pulling up behind me with its lights flashing and sirens blaring. The combination of religion and government muscle hasn’t been good for the Jews.

Nor when attending a public meeting do I want elected officials invoking the words of Jesus, Mohammed, or the God of the Old Testament. I just want to feel welcome as a Texan on an equal basis with everyone else. That can happen easily. Just leave religion out of the state-supported sphere.

Eliminating public endorsements of religion would leave people free to display their personal support. At football games, students could wave religious banners while sitting in the stands. They’d just have to use their own resources to make them. Police officers could wear crosses around their necks. They’d just have to buy them themselves. And people would be free to take a knee and pray whenever and wherever they like.

The only thing no one would be able to do is use public funds or government power to advance a religious cause.

Some Christians argue that they should be allowed

to use public funds for religious purposes because they pay taxes too. Yes, we all pay taxes, but taxes aren’t supposed to be tithes. Can you imagine being forced to pay taxes to support a church, a mosque, or a synagogue, especially one to which you do not belong? That’s not supposed to happen in America. But it does when governments use tax dollars to finance religious activities. Instead of doing that, they should cut taxes and let people use the freed-up money to fund religious events and institutions directly, if they are so inclined.

When supporting the Brewster County sheriff, Gov. Abbott tries to skirt the prohibition on public support for religion by secularizing the cross. He argues

that “[i]n addition to its religious significance, the cross has a long history in America and elsewhere as a symbol of service and sacrifice.” Part of me is “amazed that a public official would seek to downplay the religious significance of a cross, which rightfully holds a special, sacred place in Christianity,” as Ken Herman, a Pulitzer Prize winning reporter, observed.

But part of me is worried about a deeper problem too. Allowing an elected official to secularize a symbol that millions of Christians actively use as an emblem of their faith eviscerates the line between church and state. Simply by observing that crosses, prayers, scriptures, sculptures, paintings, churches, oaths and even ministers have secular functions and histories, which they all do, a public official could spend unlimited amounts of public money promoting religious observances. A barrier surmounted that easily does not merit the label.

Texas is a diverse state, racially, ethnically, politically and religiously. But there is one respect in which uniformity should prevail: The many local governments of Texas should make every Texan feel equal before the law and welcome everywhere in the state. For that to happen, the separation of church and state must be scrupulously observed.

Charles Silver is the Roy W. and Eugenia C. McDonald Endowed Chair in Civil Procedure at the School of Law at The University of Texas at Austin.

Lent: Forty days of grace and mercyBy Bishop Joe S. VásquezCATHOLIC SPIRIT

When it comes to prayer, we can ask ourselves how much time do we spend in prayer each day? Do I go to Mass? Do I read Scripture? Prayer is necessary for us to grow in our relationship with God.

Pope Francis reminds us often of the power of prayer, “Miracles happen. But prayer is needed! Prayer that is courageous, struggling and persevering, not prayer that is a mere formality.” Our Holy Father also reminds us to pray with our families, so perhaps during Lent we could make the effort to sit with our families and pray the Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be or a decade of the rosary.

Another thing to consider is for whom do we pray? It is easier to pray for our family and friends, but can we pray for people who we don’t get along with –– maybe a co-worker or a relative? Do we pray for our persecutors? Jesus says very clearly to pray for those who persecute us. When we pray for persons who

wish us harm, we take the focus off that person and off of ourselves and we focus on God. It amazes me that every time I focus on God and not on myself that life situations go much better. I begin to look at life differently and I try to better understand people. Who are they? What is going on in their lives? What must their families be like? Prayer opens us to new possibilities and we begin to see the world in a new way.

Fasting is another Lenten practice we need to do. Fasting from food is what we usually think about, but there are other ways that we can fast. What are the things in my life that I need to let go of? Even though they might not be bad in and of themselves, they may hinder us from getting closer to God. Do we spend too much time in front of the television, on the computer, on the phone, texting, e-mailing or scrolling through Facebook?

We can also fast from negative attitudes or habits, such as being critical or judgmental. The season of Lent is a time of letting go of those distractions that keep us from God. As Jesus entered the desert to be in union with his Father, he experienced hunger and temptation from the devil. He learned to trust in God and nourished himself on God’s word and love. Lent is a good time for us to do this as well.

During Lent we are also encouraged to practice almsgiving or taking care of the poor. The church clearly understands that when we take care of the

poor, God looks on us with mercy. Almsgiving can be in the form of money or food or clothes. In a diocese like ours, we have countless homeless people. Can we affirm the homeless so that when we stop at an intersection, we look at the individual and acknowledge that this is a person not a problem. They have dignity and they deserve our time and our prayers –– sometimes we can lose sight of that. There are many ways for us to take care of the poor: spending time with them and acknowledging them. We can also

participate and support our Catholic Charities

and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

These practices of prayer, fasting and

almsgiving come from Matthew’s Gospel

(16-18) on Ash Wednesday. We are called to

pray, fast and give alms privately, quietly and

discreetly because that is what God wants

us to do. “And your Father who sees what is

hidden will repay you,” Matthew says.

Bishop Vásquez at OLG Church

Spring Break Camp registration is open for the annual treat that runs March 14-18. Ages 5 – 12 are welcome. The camp operates 9 a.m.-5 p.m. with early drop-off at 7:30 a.m. Scholarships are available. Children will participate and engage in a variety of Latino culture and art education activities such as 3D design, performance, literary and culture, movement, and mixed media. We are excited to have you join us for a week full of imagination, culture, art, and fun. For more information go to www.austintexas.gov/esbmacc or call 512-974-3785. Hablamos español

Talleres Infantiles de las Artes, a Latino arts residency program for children 8-12 years of age, runs through May 28. The program is free and entirely in Spanish. Worshops, presented by Proyecto Teatro in collaboration with ESB-MACC, include Theatre 1 for beginners, Theatre 2 for advanced students, Photograpy and Contemporary Dance.

Nominate someone from your community today for the Award of Excellence 2016. We are now accepting nominations for artists and individuals who have made significant and outstanding achievements in Mexican American or Latino cultural arts. Submitting your nomination is easy. Just visit our website. Nominations are due March 21.

TODO AUSTIN // MAR 2016 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 05

“Jackie Robinson” is a two-part, four-hour film that tells the

story of an American icon whose life-long battle for first

class citizenship for all African Americans transcends even

his remarkable athletic achievements. Martin Luther King Jr.

once said of him, he “was a sit-inner before sit-ins, a freedom

rider before freedom rides.” It screens Sunday, March 6, 3

p.m., in collaboration with KLRU.

March featured books at the Mommy, Daddy & Me Bookclub

are “Bad News for Outlaws: The Remarkable Life of Bass

Reeves, Deputy U.S. Marshal,” by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson,

and “Grace for President,” by Kelly S. DiPucchio. The club

is led by Yolanda King, a mother and local children’s book

author. This offering will encourage children in the 1st-3rd

grades to read with their parents/guardians and discuss

works with others. Saturday, March 12, 3 p.m.

Cultural Lounge features Meshell R. Baker, an Action

Strategist/Life Coach who strives to empower excellence for

every day Thursday, March 24 at 6:30 p.m. Her goal is to inspire

individuals to boldly embrace their uniqueness bringing

about beauty that beckons others to also bloom brilliantly!

Join us for this talk with Q&A, with light refreshments.

New Community Health Center offers innovative healthcare to underserved residents in Central Texas

By TODO Austin staff

Austin continues to grow at a rapid pace, creating an increased need for comprehensive affordable healthcare for low-income residents. The long-awaited completion of the Central Health Southeast Health & Wellness Center in February is a big step towards meeting this demand.

The Center will bring easy access to “one-stop” care and wellness opportunities to residents from nearby Dove Springs, Montopolis and Del Valle neighborhoods. From an educational garden and teaching kitchen for healthy cooking classes to primary care and specialty doctors and an on-site pharmacy, the Center focuses on the whole person by offering a vast array of health, social and wellness services and resources all at one location.

According to Central Health Board Chair Katrina Daniel, local residents and community groups were essential to the creation of the Center. “They told us they wanted more than a medical clinic,” Daniel said. “They wanted a center of health and wellness that would care for the whole person and whole family. Central Health and our Board of Managers listened, and we leaned on a core group of dedicated leaders

Explore seasonal traditions from around the world at “Spring Holidays Fair: From Asia and Beyond,” on Saturday, March 5, from 12-4 p.m. at the Asian American Resource Center. Celebrate the arrival of spring through festival traditions from Asia including India’s Holi, the Festival of Colors, and the Taiwanese Dragon Boat Festival. Learn about festival traditions, enjoy family activities, demonstrations and performances at this free event in the AARC Ballroom.  

The schedule of performers kicks-off at 12:30 p.m. with Karen People of Austin, then 1:30 p.m. Austin Dance India; 2:30 p.m. Love of China; 3:30 p.m. Korean Folk Dance and Martial Arts; and 3:45 p.m. Hula Halau Kaeepa. Cultural experiences, interactive activities, food and refreshments will be available for purchase from EM Gourmet. For more info go to austintexas.gov/aarc

Current exhibitions at AARC include “Soul Searching Indian Journey” by Sonali Kukreja, “Let Us Believe in the Beginning of the Cold Season” by Sara Madandar, and “Darkness of Sun” by Meeshle. All are showing through March 31.

Online registration for Summer Camp opens Saturday, March 5. Engage with theater, music, puppetry and other storytelling traditions through an Asian and Asian American lens.

who met regularly to make this community vision a reality.”

Community members created a checklist of the services and programs they wished to see at the Center. Input for the project was received from organizations such as Austin Interfaith, Alliance of African American Health in Central Texas, Dove Springs Neighborhood Association, Latino HealthCare Forum, Montopolis Neighborhood Association, Wat Buddhananachat of Austin, and League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC).

The Central Health Southeast Health & Wellness Center houses one of the largest Federally Qualified Health Centers in Texas, CommUnityCare, which operates more than 20 locations throughout Travis County. The clinic will offer an array of services for low-income and uninsured residents, including primary care and specialty care, walk-in appointments, radiology and mammography, behavioral health care including, dental services, on-site pharmacy and prenatal education and care.

Beyond medical care, the Center will offer features and services such as a teaching kitchen for healthy cooking classes, a community educational garden, free exercise classes, diabetes support and education classes, legal support services from Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid, a WIC office with expanded services, ample public meeting and gathering spaces, and a community Resource Center to assist with eligibility and enrollment for health care coverage, screening for the federal Supplemental

Central Health Southeast Health & Wellness Center

WHAT: Providing new and improved

access to “one-stop” care and

wellness opportunities for Dove

Springs, Montopolis and Del Valle

neighborhoods.

WHERE: 2901 Montopolis Drive in

Austin (the intersection of E. Oltorf

Street and Montopolis Drive).

WHY: The long-awaited completion

of the Central Health Southeast

Health & Wellness Center means

low-income residents now have

easy access to “one-stop” care and

wellness opportunities. The Center

focuses on the whole person by

offering a vast array of health, social

and wellness services and resources

all at one location.

Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Central Health’s Medical Access Program (MAP).

Central Health Southeast Health & Wellness Center opened in phases beginning in October 2014, and was fully completed last month. It is part of Central Health’s vision of making Central Texas a model healthy community by creating access to health care for those who need it most.

According to Texas State Sen. Kirk Watson, a decade ago, 10 goals in a period of 10 years were established to move towards creating a model health community in Central Texas. Among these goals were a medical school and a modern 21st century teaching hospital, as well as patient-centered clinics throughout the community. As Senator Watson stated, “Central Health Southeast Health & Wellness Center is the embodiment of that promise.”

Katrina Daniel (right) chairs Central Health Board

06 TODO AUSTIN // MAR 2016 // TODOAUSTIN.COM

KLRU airs Chicano Civil Rights docThe newest installment of the KLRU-TV documentary series “Austin Revealed” focuses on Chicano Civil Rights. KLRU will present four short pieces online each Thursday in March followed by the broadcast of an hour-long documentary on March 31.

The documentary explores the struggle of the Chicano movement of the 60s and 70s and how the Mexican-American community of Austin united to fight for quality education, equal representation, and respect for their diverse culture. Through first person interviews, subjects will tell of their collective lasting impact through empowerment, sacrifices, accomplishments and failures.

KLRU has also partnered with The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center

to present a screening and discussion of the documentary as part of their César Chávez celebrations. The screening will be Thursday, March 31st at The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center. Film starts at 7 pm. Doors open at 6:30 pm. The event is free, but an RSVP is required. RSVP at klru.org/rsvp

“Austin Revealed”  is an oral history project sharing the stories of Austin’s past and present to encourage discussion and thought around the city’s future. Chicano Civil Rights features interviews with a long list of Austin civil rights leaders about their experience at the time. Interview subjects include:  Susana Almanza,  Gonzalo Barrientos, Ernesto Calderon, Martha Cotera, Marcos De Leon,  Ernesto Fraga,  Margaret Gomez,  Dr. Jose Angel Gutierrez,  Dr. Jose Limon,  Maria Elena Martinez, Richard Moya, Hortensia Palomares, Alan Pogue,  Sabino “Pio” Renteria,  Gilbert Rivera,  Pete Rivera,  Zeke Romo,  Velia Sanchez-Ruiz,  Juan Tejeda, John Trevino, Modesta Trevino, Raul Valdez, and Dr. Emilio Zamora. 

Art Alliance Austin assumes management of Art AustinArt Alliance Austin announce in Feb. that it has assumed management of Art Austin, a coalition of galleries, museums and art spaces designed to work together to elevate Austin’s fine art community. The galleries featured on the Art Austin website (artaustin.org) are now gallery members of the Art Alliance Austin, one of Austin’s oldest art nonprofits, focused on working collaboratively with artists, museums, curators and galleries to create a diverse and powerful series of programming that highlights Austin as an emerging contemporary arts capital.

“Art Austin has been the city’s strongest coalition of galleries, art spaces and art-related events in the city,” said Asa Hursh, Executive Director of Art Alliance Austin. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to assume the management of this incredible local resource. It fits perfectly into our programming, especially as that programming has evolved this past year to

include Austin Art Weekly, the Austin Art

Pavilion and Austin Art Breaks.”

Art Austin was originally founded in 2000 to

disseminate information and keep Austinites

informed about visual arts happenings.

Under the direction of Judith Taylor, Director

of Gallery Shoal Creek, the collective has

grown over the past decade and half to what

is now 31 galleries, museums and art spaces.

The brochure and website aides Austin

visitors, newcomers and all of those curious

to find more art programming.

“Austin is defined by its creative spirit and

culturally diverse voices,” said Taylor. “At

the heart of the city’s cultural map is the

energetic art scene with inviting spaces,

sophisticated offerings and engaging

events. Galleries are launching careers and

creating venues for regional, national and

international artists. Museums across the

city are expanding collections and curating

exhibitions. Together, all are broadening our

vision of how we experience art.”

Benson Latin American Collection UT

Inside Out Museum - SXSW at the Brush Square MuseumsWednesday - Friday, March 16th - 18th, 12pm -5pm

Interactive Art - Haiku-On Demand - Live Music with Shinyribs411 E. 5th Street - www.ohenrymuseum.org

FEATURED MARCH 2016 EVENTS:

Visit our Facebook page for all upcoming events! www.facebook.com/ArtsInParks

FREE

Spring Holiday FairSaturday, March 5th, 12pm-4pm, Asian American Resource Center

Cultural Experiences - Performances - Interactive Activities - Food8401 Cameron Road - www.austintexas.gov/aarc

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 512-974-4000.

Outside the Lines : A Night of New WorkFriday, March 11th, 7pm-9pm, Dougherty Arts CenterSpoken word performed by Speak Piece and the premiere of "Buzzkill" by Trey Gutierrez1110 Barton Springs Road - www.austintexas.gov/dac

Mexican American Experience - Music at the MACCWednesday - Friday, March 16th - 18th, 6pm -10pmTwo Day Concert Showcase of Tejano and Mexican American Songwriters and Musicians!600 River Street- www.austintexas.gov/macc

What does quality of life mean to you? We want to hear from Austin’s Asian community.

#AsianLifeATX

austintexas.gov/AsianLifeAustin

. Join a Community Conversation

. Take the online survey

. Host a small-group Conversation Over Tea (we provide the tea!)

. Photo Contest: How do you celebrate Lunar New Year?

Revel in Holi Festival of ColorsBy Jamie Helton

For Hindus and Austinites of all ethnic backgrounds, Holi, also known as the Spring Festival or Festival of Colors, celebrates the victory of good over evil and the arrival of the optimistic season of hope and joy. On or around the annual date in Austin, the ancient Hindu ritual is celebrated with festivals where attendees throw colored powder called rang and water on one another. The colorful festival is a creative cultural bridge-builder like few others in the community, representing renewed relationships.

While Holi is celebrated at Hindu temples across the Austin area, the date of the holiday differs year to year in India, where it is scheduled the day after the full moon in March each year. This year Holi is on Thursday, March 24 with Holika Dahan on Wednesday, March 23.

Replicating the style of Holi practiced in the

Braj district of India, Radha Madhav Dham’s (400 Barsana Road) celebration is a colorful, playful, family-filled festival. This year, the Holi celebration will take place on Saturday, March 19 from 2-8 p.m. Typically, Radha Mahdav Dham celebrates with a live band singing Holi songs from Braj. Food and game booths open early as well, and the program also features Braj-style Kirtans, cultural programs and a “Holi talk” presented in English. Dinner prasad will follow before an outdoor Holi play, then the traditional Holika fire burning as a reminder that evil always burns in the face of good.

The Austin Hindu and Community Center in East Austin (9801 Decker Lake Rd) will be celebrating Holi on Saturday, March 26 from 12-9 p.m. The program will feature a food mela including Indian cuisine, cultural programs and activities, dance and music, including a DJ, a talent show. Enjoy a holika bonfire, kolatam, rangoli, and Pooja. For the children, look for face painting and balloon twisting, indoor kids’ games and inflatables. The Holi festival of colors features color rain, a water balloon fight, and water guns, with gulal made available to engage the play.

Sri Venkateswara Temple of Austin (2509 West New Hope Drive, Cedar Park) celebrates Holi with a mela on Saturday, March 26 from 3-8:30 p.m. There will be a talent show at the Cultural

Hall in the afternoon with Bollywood dances,

classical songs, bharatnatyam and more

followed by Puja in the courtyard. Holi colors

(dry only) will be thrown from 3-5 p.m. in the

Sai Temple “roundabout.” Food booths will be

open, including dosa stall, mirchi bhaji, chloe

bhatura, chat stall, Indian sweets, popcorn,

cotton candy and beverages, from 5-8:30 pm.

There’ll also be a jump house for the kids.

The UT Hindu Students Association again

concludes Austin’s Holi schedule on Sunday,

April 3, on the LBJ Library lawn with a free

festival open to the public. HSA’s annual affair

brings out a large crowd and all are welcome

to grab some free rang and participate in

traditional games played to the sound of the

dhol (traditional drum).

For those ready to welcome in the spring

season and better health as the weather

changes, not that Holi is believed to combat

viral fever and colds. It’s said that the playful

throwing of the colored powders has a

medicinal significance. Come celebrate

what is truly a much anticipated, unique and

growing Austin tradition.Steven Gerner - Flickr: Holi /

Festival of Colors 2013

At SXSW Music, throw out your wish list and hear something unexpected By Meredith C. Cox

One of the best things about the SXSW Music Festival is that it gives fans the opportunity to hear music they might never hear on their own. SXSW has always prided itself on showcasing smaller and emerging acts, in multiple genres from all over the United States and around the world. Last year saw more than 2,200 different musical acts from 62 different countries, all in 100 different venues in six days.

There are always a few names that are already notable by the time they get to SXSW: Miley Cyrus, Big Sean, T-Pain, Run the Jewels, and Wynonna Judd made appearances at SXSW 2015. Performances will be finalized up to showtime for 2016 but you can expect some big names, as usual. Last year, I discovered for myself Courtney Barnett, Alvvays, Leon Bridges, Kate Tempest and Bleachers, five acts I’d never even heard of who immediately moved to the top of my music list.

For me, it’s pointless to make a list of what I want to see – I never make it there on time, I get distracted by some other show, it’s too crowded, the venue’s moved, I don’t want to leave where I’m

already at, or I just get exhausted at certain point and have to sleep. But that’s okay, because SXSW is an experience, not just an event.

What I like is that despite whatever plans I have, those will change and I’ll end up hearing something I’ve never heard before and come away with some new favorites.

And let’s talk economy: during SXSW, the influx of international talent each year transforms Austin into the global epicenter for creative professionals, which is pretty cool.

Even as it approaches its 30th year, SXSW is still

growing in relevance and continues to provide a range of opportunities for creative cross-pollination, not just in music, but in all things creative and innovative.

“SXSW is a testament to the creative and collaborative culture that has become synonymous with Austin,” says Michael W. Rollins, the President of the Austin Chamber of Commerce. “It remains a key economic driver that supports our local economy and innovation community well after the main event concludes.”

Even if you don’t have the money (or endurance) to wristband-up and get out there to see some shows, don’t forget about the all-ages SXSW Outdoor Stage at Lady Birdy Lake. The SXSW Outdoor Stage features a three-day series of charity beneficiary concert events, which are free-to-the-public with a SXSW Guest Pass (available online). It’s SXSW’s largest stage with more than 50,000 attendees over three days, with shows taking place March 17, 18 and 19, 2016.

So yes, SXSW Music is crowded, expensive, the lines are long, bands go on late or not at all, people are drunk, and traffic is a nightmare.

But SXSW continues to be one of the most important and pivotal festivals in the U.S., and the music is the reason for that.

SXSW Music Festival takes place March 15-20. More information available at sxsw.com.

08 TODO AUSTIN // MAR 2016 // TODOAUSTIN.COM

Surprising choices await at SXSW Conferences By Meredith C. Cox

For most people, the name South by Southwest means music. It’s a valid association – SXSW is still the largest music festival of its kind in the US and one of the biggest draws in music that bring people to Austin, whether as tourists or residents. But since the mid-90s, SXSW has grown to not only include music, but a full film festival, and most recently an expansive interactive festival as well, which encompasses everything from websites to gaming to startups. Some of the biggest and most important events now aren’t just in the music showcases or from a breakthrough act, but in the conference portion of the festival.

Due to the size and volume of information at the festival, SXSW can be overwhelming to attendees, but organizers make it as easy as possible by breaking down each portion of the festival into different tracks. You can find exactly what you’re interested in and attend the suggested sessions, panels, and workshops, or make your own schedule. Tons of events at SXSW are also listed as “convergence” tracks, meaning they’re accessible to more than one type of badge if it’s a crossover topic.

The SXSW Film Conference brings together the best and most creative minds from various fields within the film industry. There are dozens of panels, workshops, sessions and meetups from one-on-one mentor sessions with experts, conversations with writers, actors and filmmakers, instruction on crafting your project, finding your audience, marketing films and new technology in filmmaking. The different tracks include Influences; Creating Your Content; and Finding Your Audience.

The SXSW Interactive Festival is a multi-category powerhouse that showcases five days of panel sessions led by the brightest minds in emerging technologies, hands-on instructional workshops, mentor opportunities with industry leaders, plus tons of networking opportunities. The different tracks cover everything in multimedia, technology and business you could imagine: Art, Science and Inspiration; Branding & Marketing; Content and

Distribution; Health & MedTech; Work and Career; Government and Policy; and Startup Village.

But still, the big draw to SXSW is music, and the SXSW Music and Media Conference has built on this. The SXSW Music and Media Conference aims to educate and inspire musicians and those who work with them. It’s almost become a must-attend for anyone working or interested in the music industry, as fast as it’s changing these days. The session list for music is long and expansive, as are the various tracks people can attend. But the Music and Media Conference definitely isn’t just for industry folks -- even if artists aren’t performing, it puts established and aspiring musicians in touch with others in the industry, keeps them up to date on the newest gear, latest legal news, and emerging technologies that are shaping the music world.

SXSW itself says of the event, “The conference

overall offers unmatched access to ideas and global viewpoints on an increasingly borderless industry. It aims to educate and inspire musicians and professionals alike, with sessions attended by over 30,000 registrants and showcasing artists. A large multi-industry trade show exhibition, Music Gear Expo and daytime stage performances round out the day while evenings are devoted to the SXSW Music Festival, which showcases 2,000 acts ranging from the unsigned to the iconic.”

SXSW is huge and badges are expensive. But based on the amount of content available, the ease of navigating such an enormous conference, and the networking opportunities available, most would argue it’s worth it.

SXSW Interactive is held from March 11-15, SXSW Film is March 11-19, and SXSW Music is March 15-20. Full information is available at sxsw.com.

Courtney Barnett - Justin Yee photo

Leon Bridge - Zvi Kruger photo

John Legend - Michael Buckner photo

SXSW 2015 Provocateurs Panel. Getty Images

Peter Bay, conductor� Long Center�’s Dell Hall n Concer�t at 8:00 p.m. Pr�e-concer�t talk with Bob Buckalew at 7:10 p.m.

VERDI Over�tur�e to Nabucco

SCHUBERT Symphony No. 8 in B Minor�, D. 759, Unfinished

WESTLAKE/ATTAR Compassion (2013)

Also featured on the pr�ogr�am is the U.S. pr�emier�e of Westlake/Attar�’s Compassion, featur�ing

Austr�alian r�ecor�ding ar�tist, Lior�. #asoschuber�t

The SoundS of hope. fri & SaT, april 8 & 9

2015 –16 SEASONPETER BAY, MUSIC DIRECTOR

2015 –16 SEASONPETER BAY, MUSIC DIRECTOR

Symphony BATS President Kate Perez and husband Hector enjoy their date nights with the ASO.

Using the Blippar app on your mobile device, scan the image above for an interactive video!

schubert’sunfinished symphony

Tickets/Info(512) 476-6064 or austinsymphony.org

MEDIA SPONSORSCONCERT SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

All artists, programs, and dates subject to change.

FRANz SCHUBERT

Vestido Rojofor

S A V E T H E D A T E

APRIL 16, 2016 7:30 AM - 1:00 PMPALMER EVENTS CENTER

LOCALLY PRESENTED BY:

R.S.V.P. 512.338.2667 | ATXVESTIDOROJO@HEART.ORG

512.827.2620 // SUNDARAMDESIGN.COM4201 West Parmer Lane • Building C • Suite 250 • Austin, TX 78727

LOGO DESIGNBRAND DEVELOPMENT

WEB DESIGN

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

TACO BAR

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!!!

MARCH Line-up OUTDOOR SHOWS ARE “WEATHER PERMITTING”- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -WED 3/2 KDRP RADIO SHOW @ 6:00THU 3/3 LOS FLAMES @ 6:30FRI 3/4 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30SAT 3/5 THE BREW @ 2:30 & EL TULE’ @ 6:30SUN 3/6 PAUL ORTA & THE KINGPINS @ 12 & THE RECUPERATORS @ 3:00- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -WED 3/9 KDRP RADIO SHOW @ 6:00THU 3/10 BEYOND THERAPY @ 6:30FRI 3/11 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30SAT 3/12 THE TEXAS TYCOONS @ 2:30 & THE JONAS ALVAREZ BAND @ 6:30SUN 3/13 THE HENS @ 12 & BLUE MIST @ 3:00- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -SUN 3/20 BOB FUENTES PRESENTS: WINK KEZIAH @ 12; TRENT TURNER @ 1:00; EL TULE’ @ 2:00; MITCH WEBB @ 3:00; MATT HUBBARD @ 4:00; THE PISSANT FARMERS @ 5:00 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -WED 3/23 KDRP RADIO SHOW @ 6:00THU 3/24 MURALI CORYELL @ 6:30FRI 3/25 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30SAT 3/26 GLENN COLLINS & THE ALIBIES @ 2:30 THE PETERSON BROTHERS @ 6:30SUN 3/27 CLOSED FOR EASTER- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -WED 3/30 KDRP RADIO SHOW @ 6:00THU 3/31 JESS LOPEZ @ 6:30

Mexican American Experience 2016Sixth annual showcase features award winning artists

By Liz Lopez

Austin-based production company, Crossroads Events, presents the Mexican American Experience this month, a free, two-day showcase of artists that illustrate several genres of Texas music. The event, a cultural mix of music, food, community and connecting, returns to Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center on Wednesday, March 16 and Thursday, March 17.

The city’s diverse population welcomes a high volume of visitors during spring break and SXSW and music lovers will be able to enjoy a segment of young singer/songwriters and seasoned musicians making their mark on a sound whose origins trace back to the 19th century, a result of the mixture of cultures from Mexico, Texas and German, Polish, and Czech immigrants.

Every generation is represented at MAE as performers add their own style, based on current or past influences. Their music is an example of the identity and culture of Mexican Americans.

Rosendo (Ross) Gomez Jr., who presides over Crossroads Events, states, “We are presenting to

the people and those who visit Austin, who ‘we’ are

– the culture, the music and the people – with an

emphasis on our presence in the city. Our musicians

play a wide variety of genres.”

AJ Castillo, who headlines Thursday’s showcase,

has had numerous nominations to the Tejano

Music Awards and won in the category of Best New

Male Artist in 2010. He has been a top five nominee

for Male Vocalist of the Year (2015), Entertainer of

the Year (2013 and 2015) and Album of the Year –

Tejano for “Sin Limites” (2015).

“I am humbled and honored to be part of an event held at an establishment such as the MACC,” said Castillo about the upcoming gig. “As a Mexican American from Austin, I am proud of the history and efforts of all the people that have made the MACC a reality in our city. It is equally important to me that the MACC hosts events that promote and preserve Mexican American cultural arts and heritage. I consider it a privilege to perform here and contribute to the mission of the MACC. We are excited and ready to give the audience an unforgettable show! It’s going to be a great showing by all the bands performing.”

The artists featured Wednesday include: David Farias, former leader and vocalist/accordion player

for Tropa F and Tejano Music Awards winner for Album of the Year – Conjunto (2013) for “Back On Track” by Los Hermanos Farias; Yayo Castillo y Rumores, founded by brothers Yayo, Arturo and Ignacio Castillo decades ago in Austin, still popular with their recordings, performances and new band talent. The A–T Boyz were one of the Austin Music Awards 2010 Best Performing Bands (Indie Top 10). The band was founded as Alma Tejana by Francisco “Paco” Rodriguez and his three sons, Raphael, Fernando and Paquito (recently deceased). They write and record their own music and performs locally and internationally. The band Tejano Highway 281 was the winner of the Tejano Music Awards Best New Group of the Year (2012).

Thursday’s talent includes AJ Castillo; Angel Gonzalez y Vimana, a top five nominee in the Tejano Music Awards for Best New Male Artist (2013 and 2014) who also performs freestyle music; singer/songwriter and accordion player, Lucky Joe, the Tejano Music Awards winner for Best New Artist – Male (2014); and Monica Saldivar, the 2015 Tejano Idol first place winner, who will be recording songs with Freddie Records.

The grounds open to the public at 5 p.m. for the open air event. No ice chests are allowed and food and beverages will be available for purchase. Attendees are encouraged to take lawn chairs. A free shuttle service is available from Martin Middle School and Fiesta Gardens for attendees.

AJ Castillo

Angel Gonzalez

TODO AUSTIN // MAR 2016 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 11

To Do Música By Liz Lopez

On February 26, Mayor Steve Adler unveiled the Austin Music and Creative Ecosystem Omnibus Resolution that contains many specific ideas to boost the local music industry and arts sector.

The Mayor’s announcement came on the heels of the release of Austin Music People’s economic impact study that showed a decrease of $130 million and a loss of more than 1,200 local music industry jobs in just a four year period. The economic impact of the Austin music industry based on 2014 data is reportedly over $1.8 billion.

The problem outlined in the study is that while music tourism and music festivals are flourishing, local artists and venues are suffering. This trend was noted last year in the June 2015 Austin Music Industry Census.

The economic impact of primary music - that is, year-round economic activity by local artists, venues and businesses - declined more than 15 percent, from $856 million in 2010 to $726 million in 2014. 

“We’ve sounded this alarm before, and we keep coming back with more data that says Austin music needs attention if we are to continue to be an economic driver for this region,” said Bobby Garza, general manager of local company Transmission Events and AMP board chair. “In any sector, this kind of rapid job loss would be troubling - particularly when struggling businesses point to a chaotic regulatory system and weak public policy as proximate causes, as we saw in the census.  It’s clear that it’s time for city leadership to act.”------------One of this year’s hottest new artists to look out for is singer/songwriter Wedznday. The Austin native is set to release her new single “Sorry,” featuring Houston hip hop rapper Trae Tha Truth (who has previously released tracks with Rick Ross and

Future).  The  Neenyo (Party Next Door, Drake’s “Plastic Bag”) produced the sultry single, which is available on Itunes, Spotify, and Tidal, from her upcoming debut EP, “Wednzday Nights,” due later this year.

Timberos del Norte’s residency at One-2-One Bar continues for two more months through April. They perform on Sunday evenings until 11 p.m., after dance instruction provided by Austin Casino Salsa from 8-8:30 p.m.

Don Leady and His Rockin’ Revue are set to release their debut album, “Poppy Toppy Gone,” on April 15 and the new project features veteran roots rocker Don Leady, 14-year old guitarist Jack Montesinos, Eric Przygocki on bass and Alberto Telo on drums. The pre-order date for the album is March 26 and CD release parties are scheduled for April.

Congratulations to Austin-based musicians, Nikki Lopez and Mario Vigil, are now engaged. They posted the news on Facebook: “We are proud to announce our engagement with our first music video together! We both share a passion for music and together we will build a life filled with music and love.”

Addixxion announced they are still in recording mode. A mid- March performance in Austin is pending confirmation of date/time. Visit their page for updates.

Gerardo Arellano posted a teaser post about his artwork for an upcoming album to be announced. “My 3rd art cover will be posted soon, clue: the best psychedelic Cumbia band from Austin. Stay tuned,” said the local artist. He has two past collaborations with @sonidosanfrancisco and @lavidabuenaatx

Tejano music will be returning to the Rodeo Austin the first weekend, March 4-5. To find out more details on the show and how to attend, visit Lone Star Tejano Foundation.

Austin’s Fusebox Festival is planning some diverse programming and will be sharing and discussing

music on vinyl and the history of the musicians involved in the program. Events will be open to the public. See www.fuseboxfestival.com

Texas music great Michael Martin Murphey will headline Spring Shindig 2016: An LBJ Party at the Texas White House on April 23, at the LBJ National Historic Park on the banks of the Pedernales River in Stonewall, benefitting the Lyndon Baines Johnson Museum of San Marcos.Murphey’s performance—and those of singers Jan Seides and Ryan Scott Travis—will unite three kindred spirits at the event for the LBJ Museum’s Claudia Taylor (Lady Bird) Johnson endowment.

BROWN SOUND RECOMMENDATIONSLatin World Jazz Fusion Pa, Salsa, Son, Cha Cha, from classics to originals, is what you can expect from Leticia Rodriguez at the Salsa con Leti y la Buena Banda at Iron Cactus on Friday, March 4 at 10 p.m. The location is 10001 Stonelake Blvd.------------Atash is pairing up with Flying Balalaika Brothers in a great world music showcase at the Hole in the Wall on Friday, March 4. $7 cover. Doors at 9 p.m. with Atash at 10 p.m. and Flying Balalaika Brothers at midnight. 2538 Guadalupe St. ------------Jonas Alvarez will be performing at Guero’s on South Congress, Saturday, March 12, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Don’t miss it.

Michael Martin Murphey

Timberos del Norte

Wedznday

12 TODO AUSTIN // MAR 2016 // TODOAUSTIN.COM

‘Queen of Austin Soul’ Tameca Jones not resting on her laurelsBy Cat Cardenas

Fifteen years after R&B singer Tameca Jones withdrew from Baylor University, she’s established herself as the “Queen of Austin Soul.”

Jones made the decision to leave her senior year instead of continuing on to law school after she became pregnant with twins. Without a job to provide for her new family, she turned to her lifelong talent — singing. 

“I desperately tried singing to feed my family,” Jones said. “Those first shows didn’t pay very much and they’re kind of grueling when you don’t have a crowd.”

Since then, she’s collaborated with Austin icon Gary Clark Jr., performed at the Austin City Limits festival and will take the Continental Club stage for her first South By Southwest Festival March 20. In the years she spent building up her reputation, Jones said she trudged through a grueling schedule, waking up early to take her kids to school and staying out to perform late night shows. She kept at it, hoping eventually people would appreciate her soulful takes on classic songs. 

“I thought I had something to offer Austin,” Jones said. “They have no amount of soul, no amount of females, especially Black females kicking ass in Austin. I knew I could make money if I just kept working at it.” Though she’s known around the city for her soul music, Jones said she draws most of her inspiration from pop or rock, including artists from Led Zeppelin and Nirvana to George Michael and Mariah Carey. 

“I think [soul] is just something that comes through me,” Jones said. “I just take songs that are not soulful and make them more soulful. It’s not something I seek out to do.”

It was at her middle school talent show that Jones first discovered her penchant for R&B. Though she received a standing ovation for her performance of Mariah Carey’s “Vanishing,” she said she didn’t consider pursuing a music career until years later.  “It’s where I first got my love of singing,” Jones said. “That’s probably the first time I sang publicly.”

The response Jones evokes from her audiences has kept her going over the years. Jones said she loves seeing people in the audience enraptured in her songs. “The vibe you get from the crowd — it’s like oxygen,” Jones said. “Feeling the crowd relate to what you’re doing and trying to give one hundred percent of yourself one hundred percent of the time — I love it.”

Jones said it took five years for her to really establish herself and break into Austin’s music

scene. During a performance in Paris last year, she debuted original songs – an experience she said made her feel as though her hard work had been worth it. 

Despite the accomplishment, Jones said her experience as a musician has been full of its highs and lows. With her career beginning to take off, she’s reluctant to rest on her laurels. 

“It’s constantly light and dark,” Jones said. “You can have that amazing night where you’re on top of the world and feeling like a rockstar and then the next day nothing can go your way.”

Throughout her success, Jones said she sometimes reflects on the decision she made to

become a singer while providing for her family. 

“Sometimes I wish I would’ve stayed in law school,” Jones said. “It’s a very unstable career. There’s no 401k and I have kids. There are times I get really dark thinking about the long run. You can’t really retire from this.”

While Jones has been known for her R&B-style covers, it’s her original songs that have been taking over her life for the past year. When she began work on her debut EP, to be released this month, Jones said it was difficult for her to try and find her sound. “(The EP is) a reflection of who I am as an artist,” Jones said. “Most of the stuff I’ve been doing is my interpretation of other people’s work and this is just my raw, naked talent as an artist.”

Tameca Jones

Friday, March 18th at 8 pm Survey fi ve pivotal years in Bowie’s extensive career, each illustrating his inspiration and where his innovative ideas led him.

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

Also This Month

Friday, March 4th at 8 pm & Tuesday, March 15th at 8:30 pmFrom her Appalachian roots to the Oscar-winning biopic Coal Miner’s Daughter, explore the country legend’s hard-fought road to stardom.

LORETTA LYNN: AMERICAN MASTERSDAVID BOWIE: FIVE YEARS

Wildfl owers: Seeds of History Discover the facts and legends behind the wildfl owers that captivate us every spring. Go beyond the pretty faces to explore how wildfl owers impact our food chain and their symbiosis to a healthy economy, wildlife, and ecological security.

Thursday, March 3rd at 9 pm

Downton Abbey on Masterpiece After six passionate and poignant seasons, the curtain comes down on Downton Abbey. How will fate resolve the stories of Edith, Mary, Thomas, Anna, Robert, Cora, Daisy, Carson, Violet, Isobel and all the other occupants of this unforgettable house?

Sunday, March 6th, at 8 pm & Thursday, March 10th at 8:30 pm

Independent Lens | The Graduates Pressing issues in education today are explored through the eyes of a diverse array of Latina adolescents from across the United States. Part of KLRU’s American Graduate Initiative fi nd out more at klru.org/americangraduate

Monday, March 21st at 9 pm

Get the complete list at klru.orgKLRU-TV, Austin PBS broadcast 18.1 / cable 9 klru.org

PRESENTS THE BEST MUSIC ON TELEVISION!

FINAL EPISODE

FORK & VINEA feast fit for a kingBy Rose Di Grazia

The first thing that comes to my mind when I think about Sunday Brunch at Fork & Vine is that you may not need a fork and knife—or even teeth—to indulge in their outstanding brisket.

My feast began on a recent Sunday morning at 11 a.m. Actually, here’s a note to newcomers: you can arrive at 10 a.m. But being an early bird is not important because this wonderful find keeps small batches of fresh, hot, food coming and coming. Most of the time, buffets are not my cup of tea. Needless to say, I am a die-hard coffee drinker and might I add that Fork & Vine’s coffee drinks are exceptional (and this is coming from a java snob).

My meal began with a Mimosa and java. My eyes were fixated on the sparkling, clean looking silver pans spread before me. The food was simmering in hot silver tins just like at a high end hotel. Each dish had a plate and serving spoon next to the serving tin. Being a clean freak, that was another plus because the serving utensil was not resting in the food for all to get sick. Many times at buffets this is a red flag and alarms go off anticipating an upset

tummy. Also, throughout my two hour visit, chefs kept bringing out small freshly prepared batches of food. How wonderful! 

My first indulgence was the brisket. For all you vegetarians, be careful because this melt-in-your-mouth brisket that doesn’t require a knife may make you want to convert. The brisket is cooked for 14 hours. It was succulent and juicy and just fell off the bone as the server carved it. Move over Franklin’s, I must say. There is no waiting out in the cold either.

Sunday Brunch can get pretty crowded so call and reserve your seat. Who wants to wait out in the cold when you can be inside at Fork & Vine

licking your fingers and listening to the cool, sultry sounds of DJ Jeff Strange. The music was entertaining and had a sexy, sensual Sade sounding vibe. My only wish was that they had a dance floor to slow dance to this music. In my fantasy, I am in my silky lingerie with my lover and Fork & Vine has laid this feast out for the eyes and stomach before me. We feast on the delectable dishes and then... Soon, the waiter brings me back to the reality of sitting in this posh, upscale joint by bringing me more food and drink. I feel like Cleopatra and Julius Cesar for the morning. The feast continues with a delicious apple pastry and fresh assorted fruit.

Brunch consisted of an egg dish, brisket, fried

chicken, biscuits, pastries, fruit, slab bacon, and various sauces of all kinds. The brunch price is $24.95 excluding drinks. Fork & Vine offers a clean, sleek, elegant, classy ambiance. Four huge garage type doors open up onto a sunlit patio surrounded by trees. On a sunny day, this is my preferred place to sit. Sparkling wine glasses hang over the bar. Big flat screen televisions hang around the bar area for all your sports fans. This gem of a place also offers wonderful happy hours and delicious cheese plates and heavenly desserts. This is the perfect place for Sunday Brunch. My only gripe is, too bad you can’t come in your nightgown and pajamas! For more information go to www.ForkVine.com

14 TODO AUSTIN // MAR 2016 // TODOAUSTIN.COM

This year’s Austin Modern Home Tour is March 5, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Hosted by GoodLife Realty, the event will highlight the work of innovative architecture and design while attendees gain exclusive access into 12 stunning private properties and meet the creative teams who brought each visionary home to life.

Austin Home Tour was created to foster progressive, yet responsible design specifically in the Austin area. It highlights and promotes the collaborative exchange between real estate professionals, architects and developers in order to further the Modern Movement, which focuses on evolution and improvement. The tour also provides an opportunity for Austinites to learn about the dwellings that are being produced in the community and garner ideas for their own homes.

Among the highlights of the tour, guests will have an opportunity to visit with Frank Farkash of Moonstower, who created a homeowner’s perfect, warm and minimalistic space with just 1,100 square feet. Designing with a simple palette and close-quartered neighbors in mind, Farkash utilized exposed plywood and structural elements, blackened steel, clear sealed cedar and pine, and up-and-out window and door view to open up the small East Austin home.

Kipp Flores Architects’ hilltop modern home is a not to be missed, its home with balcony views stretching out eight to 10 miles. Built with Thurman Homes, this vibrant, wood-framed design is efficiently constructed with clean, subtle angles, an environmentally controlled heating and cooling crawlspace, and disguised appliances that blend in with each room’s design.

LEARN EACH HOME’S STORY ON THE TOUR:806 Lincoln Street, Austin, 78702 (Moontower)1907 Barton Parkway, Austin, 78704 (Chris Cobb Architecture)2002 Peoples Street, Austin, 78702 (Newcastle Homes and un.box studio)2405 Rockingham Circle, Austin, 78704 (Steve Zagorski Architect)2510 Trail of Madrones, Austin, 78746 (Sago International)2708 Townes Lane, Austin, 78703 (Bercy Chen Studio)305 Garden Villa, Unit A, Austin, 78704 (North Arrow Studio)3305 Hyclimb Circle, 78723 (Thurman Homes and Kipp Flores Architects)4500 Amarra Drive, Austin, 78735 (Laura Britt Design)5908 Florencia Lane, Austin, 78724 (Barley | Pfeiffer Architecture)8106 Hickory Creek, Austin, 78735 (GoodLife Luxury Realty Estate)8938 Wimberly Cove, Austin, 78735 (Collaborated Works)

Tickets are $35 in advance and can be purchased at: www.2016austinmodern.eventbrite.com. Tickets will also be available at all properties for $40 the day of the tour. Children under 12 are free. For more information please visit www.modernhometouraustin.com.

CASA(Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Travis County

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

“Doing this volunteering, I’ve learned to listen more to the children. I’ve learned to understand them better and I’ve learned to appreciate them more,” said Susy Soltero, a Compliance Officer for the Travis County Tax Office, a mother of two and a grandmother of two. “They are so intelligent and it doesn’t matter how old they are. They ask questions that you don’t even realize they can ask.” Susy’s background is in law, working for years as a paralegal, but her love of children led her to volunteer as an elementary school mentor and Girl Scout troop leader. Learning about CASA was “like a dream come true,” she said “I’m able to work and do something that can satisfy me.” Never one to shy from a challenge, the first CASA case that Susy took on was one with six boys under the age of

eight. “It’s a different experience with each one of them,” she explained. “It’s incredible how smart and mature they can be at different ages.” Balancing family, work, CASA and all her other volunteer work can be tough, but Susy manages by maintaining a rigorously detailed schedule. She wouldn’t change a thing. “Everybody keeps saying how a volunteer is going to change the kids’ lives. As of now, I think they’ve changed mine more,” she said with a smile. “Everything is different now.”

Modern Austin Home Tour By Monica Peña

Home Tour at 1907 Barton Parkway

C E L E B R A T I N G D I V E R S I T Y

St. Patrick’s Day AustinPIONEER FARMS

Ireland’s relationship with Texas and the southwest dates back to the 18th century. With the country of Ireland recently choosing Austin as the site of its first Consulate General to the U.S. southwest (it opened just a year ago in March), interest in Irish culture has heightened locally. As Adrian Farrell, the Consul General reminds, “Irish and Irish-Americans have contributed enormously to the development of the U.S. southwest, and this proud legacy continues today.”

No more is that legacy more evident than the annual St. Patrick’s Day Austin celebration. This year the March 17 holiday falls on Thursday with the event running 3-9 p.m. at Pioneer Farms.

St Patrick’s Day Austin will feature performers on two stages, highlighted by international and local stars of Celtic music and dance. The roster includes Teada’s Seamus Begley Oisin Macdiarmada with Jeff Moore and Samantha Harvey; Sean Gavin, Devin Shepherd and Eamon O’Leary; Chris Buckley, Rob Forkner, Niamh Fahey and Joseph Carmichael; Capital City Men’s Chorus; Silver Thistle Pipes and Drums; The Clickety Cloggers; and Inishfree Austin Irish Dancers.

There’ll also be Irish food and drink on hand with a special menu including fish ‘n’ chips, Irish po’boys, and corned beef and cabbage. Irish beers will be on tap including Guinness, Harp and Smithwicks (no green beer; “it’ll be the color God and Arthur Guinness intended,” promises the producers).

Produced by the Celtic Cultural Center of Texas and the Austin Celtic Association, the afternoon and evening of authentic Irish culture and pride includes an intro to Irish language workshop by the Gaelic League of Austin, children’s activities and amusements such as state-of-the-art video games, a human gyroscope and more. For information and online tickets (prices through March 14 are $12 for adult; $3 for children), go to stpatricksdayaustin.com

Il VoloBASS CONCERT HALL

Experience a unique night of “popera” at Bass Concert Hall on Wednesday, March 16, 8 p.m.

During the last few years, Il Volo have performed all over the world, released massively-selling albums, joined legendary songstress Barbra Streisand on tour and taken the stage for two highly acclaimed PBS specials.

The powerhouse Italian pop opera trio returned to the States immediately following their first Billboard Latin Music Award win for Latin Pop Albums – Artist of the Year, Duo or Group, with nominations both in 2013 and 2014.

Il Volo, discovered by renowned manager Michele Torpedine (Andrea Bocelli), features one baritone and two tenors in Piero Barone, Ignazio Boschetto and Gianluca Ginoble, who have in a short time captured America’s and the world’s imagination.

The group brings American audiences live performances of pop and traditional songs backed by symphony orchestras – sung in in English, Italian and Spanish, such as their specialized renditions of “Surrender,” “Little Things,” “Angel,” “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” and “Maria.”

Il Volo, formed in 2009, have released three albums: 2013’s Interscope Records “We Are Love,” “Il Volo’s We Are Love: Live from the Filmore Miami Beach at Jackie Gleason Theater” and “Buon Natale: the Christmas Album,” which hit iTunes’ Top 10 album of the season.

The trio was first introduced to America with their self-titled debut album in April 2011, creating huge numbers as it debuted at #10 on the Billboard Top 200 chart before going on to sell more than one million copies worldwide.

Having wowed television audiences performing “‘O Sole Mio” as special guest performers on American Idol, they guest starred in the final episode of HBO’s Entourage, performed at the 2013 Daytime Emmy Awards, were featured on PBS and toured with Streisand, appearing with her in two of her PBS specials.

Tickets for the concert start at $39.50 at texasperformingarts.org

BRIDGE2BRIDGEFrom Montopolis Bridge to 360 Bridge, Everything Austin

The Independent Media Expo STAPLE! welcomes you to peruse alternative comics, zines and graphic arts at its 12th annual show on Mar. 5-6 at the Marchesa Theater. Experience over 150 exhibitors and over seven hours of panels and programming at a prime  destination for professional and up-and-comers alike. Guests include Benjamin Marra, Mark Kistler, Gena Ha and Inés Estrada. staple-austin.org.

One of America’s most successful stand-up comedians, Gabriel Iglesias, recently launched his Fluffy Breaks Even! concert tour, which will be making a stop at The Theatre at the Frank Erwin Center on Saturday, Mar. 12, 7:30 p.m. Gabriel’s unique stand-up comedy is a mixture of animated storytelling, parodies, characters and sound effects that bring his personal experiences to life. uterwincenter.com

The Women in Jazz Association, Inc. presents This Will Be! An Unforgettable Tribute to Great Divas on Sunday, Mar. 13, 7 p.m. at One World Theatre. An evening of soul, R&B and jazz is performed by Tatiana “Ladymay” Mayfield, Pamela Hart, Sondra Johnson and Valarie Scott, paying tribute to legendary vocalists Natalie Cole and Phyllis Hyman with sweet melodies from the 70’s and beyond. oneworldtheatre.org.

Radio show host Frankie Wilson, SXSW and KAZI 88.7 FM bring back Inside Gospel Live at SXSW 2016. With a lineup that exceeds the musical, artistic and entertaining ability of every Inside Gospel Live showcase to date, the show will feature music, spoken-word, poetry, ministry and more. Life through art. Friday, Mar. 18, 7 p.m., at the George Washington Carver Museum. For more info go to insidegospellive.com

Through the universal language of music and dance, Shen Yun weaves a wondrous tapestry of heavenly realms, ancient legends, and modern heroic tales, taking audiences on a journey through 5,000 years of Chinese culture. Discover an international phenomenon that has wowed millions of audience members in more than 30 countries on Monday-Tuesday, Mar. 21-22 at the Long Center. thelongcenter.org.

Austin Classical Guitar and the Long Center present transcendent performer, composer and producer Vicente Amigo on Wednesday, Mar. 23, 8:30 p.m., in Dell Hall. Latin Grammy Award winner and recipient of the Medalla de Oro al Mérito en las Bellas Artes– Spain’s equivalent of the National Medal of Arts– Amigo is one of the most famous flamenco guitarists of all time. thelongcenter.org.

Austin Bollywood Cultural Association hosts an evening of energetic live music and entertainment with the internationally renowned Bollywood duo, music director and composer, Vishal and Shekhar, on Friday, Mar. 25, 8 p.m. at Bass Concert Hall. Recipients of numerous awards, the notables are among the most respected music directing duo that Bollywood has ever produced. texasperformingarts.org.

TODO AUSTIN // MAR 2016 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 15

Texas Performing arTs2015/2016 SeaSon

Join the conversation! F /texasperformingarts L@tpapresents I @tpapresents #seeitlivehere texasperformingarts.org $10 Student / $12 Military Tickets

BeyondBy CircaCreated by Yaron Lifschitz with the Circa Ensemble

apr 8baSS concerT hall

Blending dynamic circus acts like trapeze and Chinese pole with cheeky feats of strength and a comical take on the possi-bilities of the human body.

eighth blackbirdHand EyeMar 10Mccullough TheaTre

Grammy-winning new music sextet performs an evening-long suite infused with live projections in a theatrical setting.

Classical music programming is made possible by a generous grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.

The University of Texas Jazz Orchestrawith special guest

Terell Staffordapr 9baTeS reciTal hall

Hailed as “one of the great trumpet players of our time,” Terell Stafford joins the UT Jazz Orchestra as part of the annual Longhorn Jazz Festival.

Patty Griffin, Sara Watkins and Anaïs MitchellTogether On Stage

Mar 22baSS concerT hall

An intimate “singers-in-the-round” performance!

phot

o: Lu

ke ra

tray

, Dav

iD m

ccLis

ter,

richa

rD Da

venp

ort