REGULAR MEETING of the EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD Wednesday, August 6, 2025, 6:00 PM City Hall – Boards and Commissions Room 301 W. Second St. Austin, TX 78701 Some members of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Advisory Board may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. To speak in person, registration is required at least 10 min prior to the start of the meeting. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register call or email the board liaison at 512-974-3771 or michelle.rojas@austintexas.gov BOARD MEMBERS Angelica Navarro, Chair (D-8) Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz, Vice Chair (Mayor) Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Member (D-10) Anthony Martinez, Member (D-4) Noemi Castro, Member (D-2) Lynda Quintana, Member (D,6) Alexander “Al” Duarte, Member (D-7) Raul “Roy” Reyna, Member (D-1) John Estrada, Member (D-3) Selma Sanchez, Member (D-9) Cynthia “Cy” Herrera, Member (D-5) AGENDA CALL TO ORDER PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a (3) three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Regular Meeting of June 4, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on staffing updates, June, July and August programs, marketing and outreach efforts, and updates on signature event planning. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Olivia Tamzarian, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Marketing & Outreach Representative and Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Update on Phase 2 Construction Project. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 4. Presentation and recommendation on an updated budget request to support Academia Cuauhtli’s programming for fiscal year 25-26 budget. (Sponsors: Zamarripa-Saenz, Martinez) Presenter(s): Dr. María Del Carmen Unda, Academia Cuauhtli 5. Creation of Grand Opening Working Group. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) WORKING GROUP UPDATES 6. Update from Music Hub Programming Working Group FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting …
EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER REGULAR MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4, 2025 The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at City Hall – Board and Commissions Room located at 301 West Second Street in Austin, Texas 78701. (Some members of the ESB-MACC Advisory Board participated via videoconference.) Chair Navarro called the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Meeting to order at 6:00pm. Board Members in Attendance: Angelica Navarro, Chair Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz, Vice Chair Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Member Noemi Castro, Member Alexander “Al” Duarte, Member John Estrada, Member Cynthia “Cy” Herrera, Member (Arrived at 6:17pm) Lynda Quintana, Member Raul “Roy” Reyna, Member Board Members Absent: Anthony Martinez, Member Selma Sanchez, Member Staff in Attendance: Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager Marie Ortiz, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Supervisor Tina Davila, ESB-MACC Administrative Specialist PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No sign-ups for public communication. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. The minutes from the Regular meeting of May 7, 2025, were approved on Vice Chair Zamarripa-Saenz motion. Member Reyna seconded. Unanimous vote (8.0). Motion passed. Members Herrera, Martinez and Sanchez absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 1 2. Staff briefing on staffing updates, April and May programs, marketing and outreach efforts, and updates on signature event planning. Olivia Tamzarian, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Marketing & Outreach Representative provided updates on their Holistic Wellness Programs (HWP), Education, Caminos Teen Leadership programming, and current and upcoming marketing and outreach events. Tamzarian reminded the board of their Awards of Excellence (AOE) event that would take place Saturday, June 28th from 3pm-5pm at the Long Center – Kodosky Lounge. She gave a summary of the event, informing everyone about what to expect, and requested that the winners not be publicly disclosed until an official announcement was made. She indicated the announcement would be shared on their social media platforms and through the City’s news release on June 20, 2025. (Please see the Board and Commissions Website for backup material.) DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Update on the ESB-MACC Phase 2 Construction Project. Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager provided a brief overview of the current project timeline, announcements, scheduled milestones, as well as photos showing the construction progress. (Please see the Board and Commissions Website for backup material.) 4. Discussion on Annual Internal Review Report. Chair Navarro notified the board that the Annual Internal Review …
8.6.25 MACC Staff Report – Website - Facebook - Instagram Please share our social media posts, sign up for our newsletter, and check out our upcoming events! Holistic Wellness Programming Past: June & July 2025 Salsa & Bachata Basics Thursdays in June @ 6:30pm-7:30pm Pam Am Recreation Center Attendance: 14 – 17 / Session Learn basic steps and body movements that define these popular Latin American dances. No prior experience or partner is needed. Adult Beginner Swim Lessons Tuesdays and Thursdays June 10 - July 3 @ 6 - 6:40pm Mabel Davis Municipal Pool Attendance: 6 / Session ___________________________________________________________________________________ Youth Beginner Swim Lessons (concurrent) Attendance: 9 / Session Students will learn to feel comfortable in the water and basic skills to develop positive attitudes and safe practices in and around the water. Learn to Row June 5th @ 6-7:30pm (Make-up day) Austin Rowing Club Attendance:12 Join us on Lady Bird Lake to be introduced to sweep rowing (using one oar) in a training barge. Learn rowing stroke basics, how to stay safe on the water and handle the rowing equipment. Expect a fun, beginner friendly, and lively experience. All-Levels Yoga Saturdays @ 10:30-11:30am Southeast Library Attendance: 24 Focuses on body awareness, connection with the breath, with gentle movement, and time for meditation and relaxation. The library has mats to share. Chair Yoga 3rd Wed of each month @ 10am Dove Springs Recreation Center Attendance: 5 ____________________________________________ 3rd Friday of each month @ 10am Windsor Park Branch Attendance: 7 A gentle form of yoga that can be done seated in a chair. These modifications make yoga accessible to people with various physical abilities. Cine de Oro Tuesday, June 24th @ 9-12pm Conley Guerrero Senior Activity Center Attendance: 41 Join us for a screening of a film from the golden age of Mexican cinema. Lunch will be served. Healing Garden Workday Sunday, June 29th @ 8:30am – 10am Sunset Valley Community Garden Attendance: 8 At the ESB-MACC's Healing Garden, we grow herbs that can be used in everyday health. If you are interested in gardening or sharing in our harvest, join us for one of our workdays. Volunteers will be working hands on maintaining the garden and its infrastructure. Summer Solstice & Three Sisters Garden Sunday, June 29, 8:30am-10:00am Attendance: 10 In this sunny workshop we will celebrate the summer solstice by planting our traditional three sisters garden with beans, corn and …
Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Phase 2 Improvements Project Update August 6, 2025 Heidi Tse, Capital Delivery Project Manager PROJECT TIMELINE: ESB MACC Groundbreaking for Phase 2 Improvements / Move-Out Began– 12/10/22. • • Parking Lot Closure – 3/10/23. • Contractor Mobilization/Pre-construction Inspections – Began 3/11/23. • Permitting (Site) – Approved on 7/25/23. • Bidding & Negotiation (GMP1/Site) – Executed contract on 8/28/23. • Construction (Site) – Underway since 8/28/23. • Permitting (Building) – Approved on 3/4/24. • Bidding & Negotiation (GMP2/Building) – Executed contract on 3/7/24. • Construction (Site + Building) – Currently underway. • AIPP ESB-MACC Phase 2 – Artist(s) selection approval by Austin City Council on 8/29/24 • • Building dry-in – Process of ensuring the building envelope is weather sealed is expected August. Topping Out – Topmost structural beam was lifted into place on 9/11/24. CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS: • • • Zocalo paver installation 80% complete. Sculpture garden granite path in progress. Landscape installation underway. • Windows & doors being tested for water seal and airtightness. • Dividing partitions installed in classrooms. • • Interior flooring installation in progress. Interior shelving and cabinetry installed. • Exterior and interior lighting installation in progress. ANNOUNCEMENTS: • Large hauls and concrete pours will continue. Work hours will adhere to the City’s noise ordinance. Ordinance information can be found here. • The Confluence, a separate public/private partnership project has increased activities at the ESB MACC. The parking lot is the construction access point for the east side of the creek delta. There are trail detours because of the trail enhancements. Additional information can be found here. • The MACC round-about and driveways continue to experience elevated traffic and congestion due to the volume of work in the area and by other developers. Please exercise caution in this district and check for road closures. • Drone video illustrating ESB MACC site work can be found here. SCHEDULED MILESTONES: • Construction began – August 28, 2023 • Anticipated completion of all major construction activity – Late Summer 2025 • Anticipated reopening – November 1, 2025 Please note that as in any construction project, schedules are projected as accurately as possible, but all dates are subject to change due to the nature of construction and weather. For information on ESB MACC programs and staff relocations during construction, visit the MACC webpage: www.austintexas.gov/department/emma-s-barrientos-mexican-american-cultural-center For project updates, visit the project website: www.austintexas.gov/MaccPhase2 Zocalo: Paver …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 20250707-012: Support of Academia Cuauhtli Programming and Expansion WHEREAS, since its founding in 2013, Academia Cuauhtli (founded by Nuestro Grupo, a community-based volunteer organization) was established at the ESB-MACC as a free Saturday culture and language revitalization academy for elementary school children and their parents, with a curriculum focused on Indigeneity, social justice, Tejano history, traditional arts, and danza Mexica and since July 2014, Academia Cuauhtli has served as an official educational enterprise partnered with the Austin Independent School District (AISD) and Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Culture Center (ESB-MACC); and WHEREAS, Academia Cuauhtli, administered through a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Austin, Austin Independent School District (AISD), and Nuestro Grupo embraces and fulfills the purpose of “making Austin a place where its high quality of life is available to and accessible for all its citizens” by advocating for educational equity and well-being for Austin Independent School District students in collaboration with the University of Texas at Austin; and WHEREAS, Academia Cuauhtli fulfills its vision statement expressed as “a future where children live with a thinking heart and the courage to pursue their aspirations within the liberating and sacred learning spaces” by overseeing the administrative operations for multiple year long projects which include: Saturday Esquelita (September-March), Summer STEM School (June-August), La Collaborativa Cuauhtli, Cuauhtli Teacher Curriculum Workshops, and a research team comprised of 11 qualitative and quantitative education scholars; and WHEREAS, Academia Cuauhtli fulfills its mission expressed as “to honor our communities' cultural heritage, foster social justice, and reclaim our collective identities in pursuit of educational freedom” by serving as a means for the comprehensive advancement of the students and their parents—via its strong partnership with students’ parents—by providing a supportive and uplifting learning environment, as well as for providing for the social, and economic needs, including the extensive COVID-related assistance extended to its participant Latino families during the pandemic in Austin, Texas; and WHEREAS, Academia Cuauthli fulfills its mission by enrolling from 2014-2024 over 800 AISD emergent bilingual students, trained over 250 Indigenous/Latinx public school teachers, hosted over 25 professional development workshops, initiated Cuauhtli’s Grow Your Own bilingual leadership development program for AISD teachers of color, and successfully implemented a research-university-community partnership between AISD, UT Austin’s College of Education Department of Educational Leadership and Policy faculty and graduate student researchers, the Teresa Lozano Long Institute of Latin American Studies …
Subject: A Community Letter of Support for Academia Cuauhtli June 18, 2025 Austin City Hall 301 W. 2nd Street Austin, TX 78701 Dear Mayor Kirk Watson and Austin City Council Members: We write to you as parents, teachers, alumni, and community members who have directly and indirectly benefited from and deeply believe in the mission of Academia Cuauhtli (pronounced KWOWT-lee, meaning Eagle Academy). For more than a decade, this community-rooted program has transformed the educational experiences of hundreds of emergent bilingual students across Austin. We thank you for your past support and endorsement of our work. Today, we respectfully urge you to fully fund Academia Cuauhtli’s FY 2025–2026 $106,000 request put forward by the ESB-MACC for operations, alongside additional funding support for the establishment of a full-time Culture and Arts Education Supervisor position. Located at the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center (ESB-MACC), Academia Cuauhtli is more than a Saturday school—it is a lifeline. It provides free, high-quality, culturally sustaining education to our children in Spanish, English, and Nahuatl. It connects us as families, uplifts our heritage, and helps our children develop pride in who they are. The program has shown us that culturally relevant teaching is not only possible but powerful. Our children come home speaking about Tejano history, environmental justice, and ancestral knowledge—and they are excited to learn. The program has supported over 800 AISD students, trained over 250 teachers, and generated more than 18 original curricular units. It has also helped parents access resources during the pandemic and created leadership opportunities for our youth. It has also become a pathway to master’s and doctoral degrees in educational careers at the University of Texas at Austin with whom we also partnered. Though we are also partnered with the Austin Independent School District, we lament that not a single dollar will go toward Academia Cuauhtli this coming school year. Our community-driven, volunteer-based model ensures that every dollar goes directly into instruction, mentorship, and support for our families. However, we cannot sustain neither this impact nor our anticipated growth as we move back into our home at the ESB-MACC this November without your support. A full-time coordinator is urgently needed to manage and grow the program. For years, this work has been carried on the shoulders of volunteers and part-time staff. As the needs of our community grow, so must our ability to meet them. The funding request—part of …
Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Advisory Board Community Interest Announcement ESB-MACC Awards of Excellence Ceremony June 28, 2025, at 3:00 pm Long Center- Kodosky Lounge, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704 A quorum of Commission members may be present. No action will be taken, and no Commission business will occur. Michelle Rojas, Board Liaison 512-974-3771
REGULAR MEETING of the EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD Wednesday, June 4, 2025, 6:00 PM City Hall – Boards and Commissions Room 301 W. Second St. Austin, TX 78701 Some members of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Advisory Board may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. To speak in person, registration is required at least 10 min prior to the start of the meeting. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register call or email the board liaison at 512-974-3771 or michelle.rojas@austintexas.gov BOARD MEMBERS Angelica Navarro, Chair (D-8) Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz, Vice Chair (Mayor) Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Member (D-10) Anthony Martinez, Member (D-4) Noemi Castro, Member (D-2) Lynda Quintana, Member (D,6) Alexander “Al” Duarte, Member (D-7) Raul “Roy” Reyna, Member (D-1) John Estrada, Member (D-3) Selma Sanchez, Member (D-9) Cynthia “Cy” Herrera, Member (D-5) CALL TO ORDER AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a (3) three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Regular Meeting of May 7, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on staffing updates, May and June programs, marketing and outreach efforts, and updates on signature event planning. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Olivia Tamzarian, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Marketing & Outreach Representative and Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Update on the ESB-MACC Phase 2 Construction Project. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager 4. Discussion on Annual Internal Review Report. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) WORKING GROUP UPDATES 5. Awards of Excellence: Update on event planning and assignment of tasks. (Sponsors: Navarro, Estrada) FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting …
Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Phase 2 Improvements Project Update June 4, 2025 Heidi Tse, Capital Delivery Project Manager PROJECT TIMELINE: ESB MACC Groundbreaking for Phase 2 Improvements / Move-Out Began– 12/10/22. • • Parking Lot Closure – 3/10/23. • Contractor Mobilization/Pre-construction Inspections – Began 3/11/23. • Permitting (Site) – Approved on 7/25/23. • Bidding & Negotiation (GMP1/Site) – Executed contract on 8/28/23. • Construction (Site) – Underway since 8/28/23. • Permitting (Building) – Approved on 3/4/24. • Bidding & Negotiation (GMP2/Building) – Executed contract on 3/7/24. • Construction (Site + Building) – Currently underway. • AIPP ESB-MACC Phase 2 – Artist(s) selection approval by Austin City Council on 8/29/24 • • Building dry-in – Process of ensuring the building envelope is weather sealed is expected June. Topping Out – Topmost structural beam was lifted into place on 9/11/24. CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS: • Snake Path reinstallation in progress. • Tree planting has begun. • • Shade structure painted. Zocalo paver installation underway. • Overhead inspections were passed. • Ceilings are being closed-up. • Cabling for connectivity is being pulled. • Exterior building power wash complete. • Site irrigation system installation in progress ANNOUNCEMENTS: • Pocket Park Mural Dedication by the City of Austin Caminos Teen Leadership Program, Class of 2025 was on Saturday, 5/31/25, from 10:00 – 11:00 am at 64 Rainey Street. Additional information can be found here. • Large hauls will continue. Work hours will adhere to the City’s noise ordinance. Ordinance information can be found here. • The Confluence, a separate public/private partnership project has increased activities at the ESB MACC. The parking lot is the construction access point for the east side of the creek delta. There are trail detours because of the trail enhancements. Additional information can be found here. • The MACC round-about and driveways continue to experience elevated traffic and congestion due to the volume of work in the area and by other developers. Please exercise caution in this district. SCHEDULED MILESTONES: • Construction began – August 28, 2023 • Anticipated completion of all major construction activity – Summer 2025 • Anticipated reopening – November 1, 2025 Please note that as in any construction project, schedules are projected as accurately as possible, but all dates are subject to change due to the nature of construction and weather. For information on ESB MACC programs and staff relocations during construction, visit the MACC webpage: …
EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER REGULAR MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, MAY 7, 2025 The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at City Hall – Board and Commissions Room located at 301 West Second Street in Austin, Texas 78701. (Some members of the ESB-MACC Advisory Board participated via videoconference.) Chair Navarro called the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Meeting to order at 6:01pm. Board Members in Attendance: Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Angelica Navarro, Chair Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz, Vice Chair Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Member Anthony Martinez, Member John Estrada, Member Cynthia “Cy” Herrera, Member (Arrived at 6:22pm) Lynda Quintana, Member Raul “Roy” Reyna, Member Selma Sanchez, Member (Arrived at 6:08pm) Board Members Absent: Noemi Castro, Member Alexander “Al” Duarte, Member Staff in Attendance: Marjorie Flanagan, PARD Division Manager of Museums and Cultural Programs Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager Marie Ortiz, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Supervisor Tina Davila, ESB-MACC Administrative Specialist PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL No sign-ups for public communication. Chair Navarro took a moment to introduce new Board Member Lynda Quintana asking her to share a little about herself and why she was interested in joining the ESB-MACC Advisory Board. Member Quintana shared that she has lived in Austin for 25 years. She was originally from Taos, New Mexico where she grew up in a large family and loved the sense of community. Since she was not in Taos anymore, she wanted to give back to the Austin community, hoping to offer her children the same feeling of community and Hispanic culture. 1 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. The minutes from the Regular meeting of April 2, 2025, were approved on Vice Chair Zamarripa- Saenz’s motion. Member Estrada seconded. Unanimous vote (7.0). Motion passed. Members Castro, Duarte, Herrera and Sanchez absent. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on staffing updates, April and May programs, marketing and outreach efforts, and updates on signature event planning. Olivia Tamzarian, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Marketing & Outreach Representative provided updates on Holistic Wellness Programs (HWP), Caminos Teen Leadership programming, and current and upcoming marketing and outreach events. Erik Granados, ESB-MACC Education Specialist reported on youth and family education programs (Sabados en Familia, CIS Afterschool, Lending Library, Morning Glories, and Dia del Niño) detailing the curriculum, activities and number of participants for each initiative. Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture & Arts …
6.4.25 MACC Staff Report – Website - Facebook - Instagram Please share our social media posts, sign up for our newsletter, and check out our upcoming events! Holistic Wellness Programming Past: All-Levels Yoga: Saturdays @ 10:30-11:30am Southeast Library Attendance: 42 Focuses on body awareness, connection with the breath, with gentle movement, and time for meditation and relaxation. The library has mats to share. Nourishing Flow: 1st Sat of each month @ 1:30-2:30pm My Vinyasa Practice- SoCo Studio Attendance:3 A gentle and restorative yoga class that invites you to reconnect with your body and breath. Through mindful movement, soothing breathwork, and the healing power of sound, we’ll cultivate a deep sense of relaxation Women’s Self-defense: Saturday, May 10 @ 2pm – 4pm Austin Women’s Boxing Club Attendance:12 We will practice using mixed martial arts techniques from Karate, Jiu Jitsu, and more. You will gain a basic understanding of how to defend yourself using your body Zumba: Saturday, May 10 @ 5pm – 6pm Corazon Latino Dance Studio Attendance:4 Bring your mom, mother figure, friend (or yourself) to this high-energy fitness class that combines Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow dance moves! It’s a fun and effective way to get a full-body workout, improve your cardiovascular health, and burn calories. Tortilla Workshop: Sunday, May 11 @ 3pm – 4:30pm •Session 1: 3-3:30pm •Session 2: 4-4:30pm Veracruz All Natural Attendance:40 Join us for this all-ages event to learn (or perfect!) your corn tortilla making skills, guided by the wonderful folks of Veracruz All Natural! Light snacks and refreshments will be offered. Chair Yoga: 3rd Friday of each month @ 10am Windsor Park Branch Attendance: 6 A gentle form of yoga that can be done seated in a chair. These modifications make yoga accessible to people with various physical abilities Affirmations to Overcome Perfectionism & Navigate Negative Self-talk (16+): Saturday, May 17 @ 2pm – 4pm Ruiz Library. Attendance:14 The founders of Sin Miedo Counseling will guide us in understanding the impact of perfectionism and negative self-talk, using affirmations as tools for healing and self-talk, using affirmations as tools for healing and self-compassion. Healing Garden Workday: Sunday, May 18th @ 10am-11am Sunset Valley Community Garden Attendance: 8 Creating Garden Ollas and Water Ceremony: Join us as we learn how to keep our garden soil healthy while exploring the mesoamerican Azteca chinampas farming practices by creating our own garden ollas and close with a guided water ceremony. …
Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Advisory Board Community Interest Announcement ESB-MACC Pocket Park Mural Dedication May 31, 2025, at 10:00 am 64 Rainey Street, Austin, TX 78701 (Outdoor Park at the corner of River Street and Rainey Street) A quorum of Commission members may be present. No action will be taken, and no Commission business will occur. Michelle Rojas, Board Liaison 512-974-3771
REGULAR MEETING of the EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER ADVISORY BOARD Wednesday, May 7, 2025, 6:00 PM City Hall – Boards and Commissions Room 301 W. Second St. Austin, TX 78701 Some members of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Advisory Board may be participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. To speak in person, registration is required at least 10 min prior to the start of the meeting. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register call or email the board liaison at 512-974-3771 or michelle.rojas@austintexas.gov BOARD MEMBERS Angelica Navarro, Chair (D-8) Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz, Vice Chair (Mayor) Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Member (D-10) Anthony Martinez, Member (D-4) Noemi Castro, Member (D-2) Lynda Quintana, Member (D,6) Alexander “Al” Duarte, Member (D-7) Raul “Roy” Reyna, Member (D-1) John Estrada, Member (D-3) Selma Sanchez, Member (D-9) Cynthia “Cy” Herrera, Member (D-5) CALL TO ORDER AGENDA PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 10 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a (3) three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Regular Meeting of April 2, 2025. STAFF BRIEFINGS 2. Staff briefing on staffing updates, April and May programs, marketing and outreach efforts, and updates on signature event planning. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Olivia Tamzarian, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Marketing & Outreach Representative, Erik Granados, Culture and Arts Education Specialist, and Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager DISCUSSION ITEMS 3. Presentation on the Office of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment by director Angela Means. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Angela Means, Office of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment Director 4. Update on the ESB-MACC Phase 2 Construction Project. (Sponsors: Navarro, Zamarripa-Saenz) Presenter(s): Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at …
EMMA S. BARRIENROS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER REGULAR MEETING MINUTES WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2025 The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center convened in a Regular meeting on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at City Hall – Board and Commissions Room located at 301 West Second Street in Austin, Texas 78701. (Some members of the ESB-MACC Advisory Board participated via videoconference.) Chair Navarro called the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Meeting to order at 6:05pm, announcing that before taking roll she would like to state for the record that there was an error with the meetings April 2, 2025, agenda. She made the board aware that the City Clerk’s office misinformed MACC staff of the district for one of their new advisory board members which resulted in confusion with Council Member appointments. She went on to explain the discrepancy letting everyone know the current agenda showed Board Member Mónica Siañez, District 6 was replaced with new Board Member Selma Sanchez. However, Commissioner Sanchez was not appointed by District 6, but was appointed by District 9, Council Member Zo Qadri. Commissioner Siañez would continue to serve on the board under District 6 until her holdover period expired, or she was reappointed. Chair Navarro made it clear the April 2, 2025, minutes, would reflect the correction and noted the information had also been corrected by the City Clerk’s office on the Boards & Commissions website for the ESB-MACC Board Roster as well. Board Members in Attendance: Board Members in Attendance Remotely: Angelica Navarro, Chair Raul “Roy” Reyna, Member Lillian “Lily” Zamarripa-Saenz, Vice Chair Mónica Siañez, Member Hilario “Larry” Amaro, Member Noemi Castro, Member Alexander “Al” Duarte, Member John Estrada, Member (Arrived at 6:16pm) Cynthia “Cy” Herrera, Member Selma Sanchez, Member (Arrived at 6:12pm) Board Members Absent: Anthony Martinez, Member Staff in Attendance: Marjorie Flanagan, PARD Division Manager of Museums and Cultural Programs Michelle Rojas, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Manager Marie Ortiz, ESB-MACC Culture and Arts Education Supervisor Tina Davila, ESB-MACC Administrative Specialist 1 PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL Chair Navarro took a moment to introduce new Board Members Al Duarte and Selma Sanchez, asking them to share a little about themselves and why they were interested in joining the MACC Board before opening the floor for public communication. Member Duarte shared that he was an Austinite with over 15 years in community service and had a passion for Hispanic culture. He stated …
5.7.25 MACC Staff Report – Website - Facebook - Instagram Please share our social media posts, sign up for our newsletter, and check out our upcoming events! Holistic Wellness Programming Past: Guitar Lessons (15+): Tuesdays, starting January 28 @ 3-4:15 George Washington Carver Museum Beg: 3-3:30pm / Inter: 3:45-4:15pm Attendance: Join accomplished musician Mauricio Callejas for guitar lessons for beginners (finger placement, strumming, sight-reading) and intermediate (chord progressions, ear training, reading sheet music) students. Please bring your guitar. All-Levels Yoga: Saturdays @ 10:30-11:30am. Southeast Library Attendance:32 Focuses on body awareness, connection with the breath, with gentle movement, and time for meditation and relaxation. The library has mats to share. Chair Yoga: 3rd Friday of each month @ 10am. Windsor Park Branch Attendance: A gentle form of yoga that can be done seated in a chair. These modifications make yoga accessible to people with various physical abilities. Chair Yoga: 3rd Wed of each month @ 10am. Dove Springs Recreation Center Attendance: A gentle form of yoga that can be done seated in a chair. These modifications make yoga accessible to people with various physical abilities. Nourishing Flow: 1st Sat of each month @ 1:30-2:30pm. My Vinyasa Practice- SoCo Studio Attendance: 5 A gentle and restorative yoga class that invites you to reconnect with your body and breath. Through mindful movement, soothing breathwork, and the healing power of sound, we’ll cultivate a deep sense of relaxation Voice/Guitar/Songwriting Lessons Beg/Inter (15+): Mondays @ 4-5pm Windsor Park Library Attendance: 22 Join award winning song-writer Javier Jara for voice, guitar and songwriting lessons. Skills addressed: left and right hand technique, chords, arpeggios, strumming patterns, vocal technique, and songwriting approaches. Please bring your own guitar. Salsa Basics: Saturday, April 12 @ 5-6pm Corazon Latino Dance Studio Attendance: 12 Learn basic steps and body movements that define this popular Latin American dance. No prior experience or partner is needed Refreshments will follow. Women’s Circle (16+) Sunday, Mar 16, Apr 13 & May 11 @ 3:30-5pm The Center for Arts + Healing Attendance: 4 Join us to share in plática (heart-centered conversation), self-care practices, and canto (song). This is a time to connect with others, nurture yourself, and refill your cup under the light of the full moon. Road to Financial Freedom Wednesday, April 16 @ 6-7:30pm Little Walnut Creek Library Attendance: 4 Gain Control of your financial future by chipping away at debt such as credit cards …
Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center Phase 2 Improvements Project Update May 7, 2025 Heidi Tse, Capital Delivery Project Manager PROJECT TIMELINE: ESB MACC Groundbreaking for Phase 2 Improvements / Move-Out Began– 12/10/22. • • Parking Lot Closure – 3/10/23. • Contractor Mobilization/Pre-construction Inspections – Began 3/11/23. • Permitting (Site) – Approved on 7/25/23. • Bidding & Negotiation (GMP1/Site) – Executed contract on 8/28/23. • Construction (Site) – Underway since 8/28/23. • Permitting (Building) – Approved on 3/4/24. • Bidding & Negotiation (GMP2/Building) – Executed contract on 3/7/24. • Construction (Site + Building) – Currently underway. • AIPP ESB-MACC Phase 2 – Artist(s) selection approval by Austin City Council on 8/29/24 • • Building dry-in – Process of ensuring the building envelope is weather sealed is expected May. Topping Out – Topmost structural beam was lifted into place on 9/11/24. CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS: • • Zocalo grading and compaction 85% completed. Zocalo pavers in progress. • North and South stairs installations continue. • Windows and doors installations underway. • • Slab waterproofing prior to hand railing installation in progress. Individual restrooms tiling complete. • New auditorium doors framing in process. • Walkway stucco ceiling 50% complete. • • Interior walls taped and floated. Interior ceilings installation in progress. ANNOUNCEMENTS: • 80% of the new furniture purchases was completed by April. The remaining 20% is expected to be complete July. • The MACC, Phase 2 AIPP artists, Katherine Telley and Ruben Esquivel, engaged the community during the La Mujer event. The artists informed and gathered inspiration from the public as they continue work towards the completion of their conceptual design. Participants were able to learn more about the artists’ goals as well as share their own personal ESB-MACC stories. Additional information can be found here. • Concrete pours and large deliveries will continue. Work hours will adhere to the City’s noise ordinance. Ordinance information can be found here. • The Confluence, a separate public/private partnership project has increased activities at the ESB MACC. The parking lot is the construction access point for the east side of the creek delta. There are trail detours because of the trail enhancements. Additional information can be found here. • The MACC round-about and driveways continue to experience elevated traffic and congestion due to the volume of work in the area by other developers. Please exercise caution in this district. • Drone video illustrating ESB MACC …
Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment Economic Opportunity Committee March 21, 2025 Angela Means, MPA, Director Effective February 24, 2025, the City of Austin officially established the Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment (ACME). This marks a significant step in Austin’s commitment to building a more vibrant and dynamic destination for arts, culture, music, and entertainment. 2 HOW WILL ACME BENEFIT OUR COMMUNITY? • Provide centralized support for creatives and cultural organizations. • Enhance economic growth, tourism and civic engagement. • Foster collaboration between artists, cultural organizations, and local businesses. • Create inclusive, accessible spaces for residents to experience arts and culture. • Strengthens Austin’s identity as a global destination for creativity. 3 HOW WAS ACME FORMED? Economic Development Department Cultural Arts Art in Public Places Music & Entertainment Parks & Recreation Department Museum & Cultural Programs Heritage Tourism Special Events (Partial) Development Services Department Austin Center for Events Entertainment Services Austin Public Library Aviation African American Heritage & Cultural Facility Music & Art 4 Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment (ACME) Functional Organizational Chart 5 WHAT ARE ACME’S 2025 GOALS? • Streamline operations • Implement community engagement programs • Launch the development of a comprehensive Strategic Plan • Reevaluation of Cultural Arts and Live Music grant program guidelines • Increase access to programming • Establish new collaborative partnerships with the community and partners across various sectors 6 6 HOW WILL ACME EXPLORE AND LEVERAGE FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES? Grants and Sponsorships Private Sector Tap into local, state, and federal funding to support arts initiatives Seek partnerships with businesses and organizations to secure sponsorships for programs and events Engage with the private sector for donations, corporate sponsorships, and philanthropic contributions Crowdfunding & Fundraising Use crowdfunding platforms to finance specific cultural projects Organize fundraising events to raise awareness and funds for future programs 7 WHAT IS THE TIMELINE TO FULLY INTEGRATE ACME? Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 • Planning & Development • Growth & Expansion • Launch Programs • Establish Community Presence 8 ACME is committed to Building a Collaborative, Vibrant City. 9 9 Office of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment ACME@austintexas.gov 512-974-1624 Amplifying Austin’s Creative Spirit 10
Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment Emma S. Barrientos-Mexican American Cultural Center Advisory Board May 7, 2025 Angela Means, MPA, Director Effective February 24, 2025, the City of Austin officially established the Office of Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment (ACME). This marks a significant step in Austin’s commitment to building a more vibrant and dynamic destination for arts, culture, music, and entertainment. 2 HOW WILL ACME BENEFIT OUR COMMUNITY? • Provide centralized support for creatives and cultural organizations. • Enhance economic growth, tourism and civic engagement. • Foster collaboration between artists, cultural organizations, and local businesses. • Create open, accessible spaces for residents to experience arts and culture. • Strengthens Austin’s identity as a global destination for creativity. 3 HOW WAS ACME FORMED? Economic Development Department Cultural Arts Arts in Public Places Music & Entertainment Parks & Recreation Department Museum & Cultural Programs Historic Tourism Special Events (Partial) Development Services Department Austin Center for Events Entertainment Services Austin Public Library Aviation African American Heritage & Cultural Facility Music & Art 4 WHAT ARE ACME’S 2025 GOALS? • Streamline operations • Implement community engagement programs • Launch the development of a comprehensive Strategic Plan • Reevaluation of Cultural Funding grant program guidelines • Increase access to programming • Establish new collaborative partnerships with the community and partners across various sectors 5 5 HOW WILL ACME EXPLORE AND LEVERAGE FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES? Grants and Sponsorships Private Sector Tap into local, state, and federal funding to support arts initiatives Seek partnerships with businesses and organizations to secure sponsorships for programs and events Engage with the private sector for donations, corporate sponsorships, and philanthropic contributions Crowdfunding & Fundraising Use crowdfunding platforms to finance specific cultural projects Organize fundraising events to raise awareness and funds for future programs 6 WHAT IS THE TIMELINE TO FULLY INTEGRATE ACME? Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 • Planning & Development • Growth & Expansion • Launch Programs • Establish Community Presence 7 ACME is committed to Building a Collaborative, Vibrant City. 8 8 Office of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment ACME@austintexas.gov 512-974-1624 Amplifying Austin’s Creative Spirit 9
