Austin ISD faces widening budget deficit, explores options to bridge gap

The 2023-24 budget deficit has widened due to lower than anticipated property values and average daily attendance. This could potentially result in the district starting the 2024-25 school year with a $59 million deficit, while simultaneously exploring ways to close this gap.

Austin ISD honors school nurses during National Nurses Appreciation Week

The Austin Independent School District (ISD) is taking time to acknowledge and celebrate the remarkable dedication and compassion of its school nurses. The district extends its gratitude for their steadfast commitment to ensuring the health, safety, and overall well-being of students on a daily basis.

Austin ISD acts swiftly following Ascension-Seton cybersecurity incident

Austin Independent School District (ISD) systems have been confirmed secure following an investigation related to a cybersecurity incident on May 8. The district's Information Technology department acted swiftly in response to the incident, which was connected to its nursing partner, Ascension Seton.

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Profile

Devil’s Details Boutique owner: ‘Being a female owned business is a rewarding experience’

Devil’s Details Boutique, a vintage jewelry store located in south Austin, was rebranded and remodeled from Bloomers and Frocks at the beginning of 2024. In an interview with the Austin Journal, Rebekka Adams, the owner of Devil’s Details Boutique, shared insights about the rebranding process, her passion for vintage jewelry, and her experiences as a female entrepreneur in Austin.

Round Rock student launches nonprofit organization

Arjun Sharda, a 12-year-old student from Round Rock, has recently established a nonprofit organization named TLEEM. The acronym stands for Technology, Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Engineering, and Mathematics, reflecting Sharda's mission to aid his peers in honing their skills in these areas.

Rowing Dock Austin's Director of Ops: 'We have a really good pulse on what the community needs'

In a recent interview with the Austin Journal, Rowing Dock Austin's Director of Operations Lindsay Rohler explained the services the company provides and its mission of becoming more than a rental service.

UT honors legacy of philanthropist and benefactor Robert L. Moody

The University of Texas at Austin (UT) announced that Robert L. Moody, a prominent businessman, philanthropist, and supporter of the university, passed away at the age of 88. The Moody Foundation, led by Moody, has contributed over $204 million to the University, playing a pivotal role in establishing and supporting various academic initiatives, including colleges, centers, institutes, programs, and venues. This loss is felt deeply within the institution where his impact will continue to be recognized for years to come.

University of Texas at Austin said UT honors legacy of philanthropist and benefactor Robert L. Moody

``` The University of Texas at Austin (UT) announced that Robert L. Moody, a prominent businessman, philanthropist, and supporter of the university, passed away at the age of 88. The Moody Foundation, led by Moody, has contributed over $204 million to the University, playing a pivotal role in establishing and supporting various academic initiatives, including colleges, centers, institutes, programs and venues. This event took place on the UT campus where many attribute their achievements to Mr. Moody's generous contributions. Highlighting some key...

Events

The Tony Castillo Plaque Unveiling Ceremony is set to take place on Sunday, May 5 at the Pan American Neighborhood Park located at 2100 E. Third Street.

Art On and Off the Wall: Lamar Senior Activity Center Hosts Annual Spring Art Show and Sale

The Lamar Senior Activity Center is gearing up for its annual Art On and Off the Wall event, a celebration of creativity and talent among senior artists. Scheduled for Saturday, May 4, the event will run from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 2874 Shoal Crest Ave, offering a diverse selection of handcrafted items for attendees to explore and purchase.Visitors to the event can look forward to a wide array of artistic creations, as highlighted by the organizers: "Browse paintings, drawings, polymer clay art, fiber arts, jewelry, multi-media work, kitchen items, handmade soaps, latch...

Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce to host two SXSW events

The Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce has announced its plans to host two official events during the "South by Southwest (SXSW)" festival. The Chamber's representatives have been in discussions with SXSW and Equality Texas about the nature of these LGBT-focused events.

Government

Groundbreaking for Cairn Point Cameron Studio Apartments for 55+ Residents in Austin, TX

The City of Austin Housing Department celebrates the groundbreaking of Cairn Point Cameron, a multifamily residential development located at 1500 East St. Johns Ave., situated by the Northeast Early College High School in Council District 4. The new community will deliver 150 studio apartments for adults aged 55 and over who are at or below 50% of the median family income (MFI) level, with 100 of these will be set aside as permanent supportive housing (PSH) along with supportive services.

Understanding Air Quality in Central Texas and Its Impact on Health and Environment

"Welcome to Air Quality Awareness Week 2024! This week, we spotlight the critical yet sometimes overlooked issue of air quality and its impact on our health and environment. We interviewed Ramon Zarate, an Air Quality Program Specialist at the Capital Area Council of Governments (CAPCOG), who shared his insights and expert advice on how we can breathe easier and live healthier. Read on to learn more about the state of our air in Central Texas, what contributes to poor air quality, and what we can all do to help.

Looking Back at 25 Years of Live Music at AUS

For the past 25 years, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) has been a hub for live music, showcasing local talent and providing travelers with a unique musical experience. AUS Music Coordinator Michael Pennock has been at the forefront of this program, bringing music to the airport for over a decade.Pennock shared insights into the history and impact of the live music program at AUS, highlighting the airport's commitment to promoting Austin's music culture. He mentioned the pivotal role of early supporters like Nancy Coplin and Delaware North Companies in...

Total Eclipse 2024 ATX

On May 6, 2024, the city of Austin was abuzz with excitement as residents and visitors alike gathered to witness the historic total solar eclipse that graced the skies on April 8, 2024. According to a statement, 'People from all around the country and local Austinites descended into Zilker Park to take part of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.' The event was made even more special by the fact that 'Austin won’t be in the path of totality again for another 319 years.'In preparation for this celestial spectacle, the Parks and Recreation Department, along with the Austin...

Education

The Austin Independent School District (ISD) is taking time to acknowledge and celebrate the remarkable dedication and compassion of its school nurses. The district extends its gratitude for their steadfast commitment to ensuring the health, safety, and overall well-being of students on a daily basis.
Austin Independent School District (ISD) systems have been confirmed secure following an investigation related to a cybersecurity incident on May 8. The district's Information Technology department acted swiftly in response to the incident, which was connected to its nursing partner, Ascension Seton.
The 2023-24 budget deficit has widened due to lower than anticipated property values and average daily attendance. This could potentially result in the district starting the 2024-25 school year with a $59 million deficit, while simultaneously exploring ways to close this gap.

Sports

Blanco no-hitter powers Astros' first win of 2024 season

The Houston Astros recently celebrated their first victory of the 2024 regular season under new manager Joe Espada, a win that came with an impressive distinction. The team's starting pitcher, Rodel Blanco, registered a no-hitter – the first of the year in Major League Baseball (MLB) – during Houston's 10-0 triumph over the Toronto Blue Jays. The game was held at Minute Maid Park on April 1 and was attended by 27,285 spectators.

Austin FC team captain Sebastián Driussi obtains green card

Austin FC has recently confirmed that its club captain, Sebastián Driussi, has secured a green card, thereby becoming a permanent resident of the United States. Since 2021, Driussi had occupied an international player slot for Austin FC.

Cowboys fail to 'seize everything' against Green Bay

The Dallas Cowboys have once again made it to the National Football League's (NFL) postseason, only to be ousted prematurely. This marks their third consecutive appearance in the playoffs, a feat that has been overshadowed by their failure to reach the National Football Conference championship game since the days when America Online was the primary means of internet access. The Green Bay Packers, who recently parted ways with star quarterback Aaron Rodgers, delivered a surprising defeat at AT&T Stadium on January 14.

Longhorns after Sugar Bowl loss to Washington: 'Thank you Longhorn Nation for your support this season'

The College Football Playoff (CFP) is set to culminate in the College Football Playoff National Championship at NRG Stadium in Houston. This follows the defeat of the University of Texas (UT) Longhorns by the University of Washington (UW) Huskies with a score of 31-37, and the University of Michigan (UM) Wolverines' thrilling 27-20 overtime victory over the University of Alabama.

UT prepares for national semi revenge match against Washington

The University of Texas (UT) Longhorns are poised to take on the University of Washington (UW) Huskies in a pivotal match that could secure them a spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship. The last time the Longhorns found themselves in such a promising position was over a decade ago, which also marked the beginning of the University of Alabama's dynasty.

Lifestyle

Austin-based organization, New Hope Animal Rescue (NHAR), has been granted a $25,000 fund by PetSmart Charities. The grant is intended to aid the preparation of homeless cats and dogs in the state for adoption.

LBJ Theatre students advance to UIL One Act Play Area Contest

LBJ Jaguar Theatre students at LBJ High School in Austin have advanced to the UIL One Act Play Area Contest for the first time in the school's history. The competition, held at Bastrop ISD, saw LBJ emerge as the only 5A school in Austin ISD to progress to the Area level this year, breaking new ground after years of competing with the Liberal Arts and Science Academy.

UT Austin study leads to smart windows breakthrough

A study conducted by researchers at The University of Texas at Austin has led to a breakthrough in the development of smart windows using common, sustainable materials such as amylose, a natural polymer found in corn, potatoes, and beans.

Real Estate

Austin's Lamar Business Park marked for redevelopment

A central Austin business park is set for redevelopment, a move that could transform the area with the construction of over 1,000 new apartments. The proprietors of Lamar Business Park, a 14-acre shopping and business center situated on the fringe of the North Loop neighborhood, have recently submitted a rezoning application to the city of Austin.

Towers Realty provides glimpse of latest Centro building

The Centro project, located at 1401 East 6th Street and developed by local investment firm Riverside Resources, is preparing to launch its second phase. Towers Realty has provided a preliminary overview of the forthcoming plans for this East Austin project, which will include both apartments and retail space.

Bouldin Creek Neighborhood representatives meet to discuss Oak Creek Village development

The Bouldin Creek Neighborhood Association Zoning Committee met on Dec. 11 to discuss the Oak Creek Village development. As part of the proposed Phase 2 development at Oak Creek Village, the property owner is requesting to remove some restrictions on the height of the buildings and the amount of units that can be developed.

Austin City Council approves progress for Colony Park Sustainable Community

The City of Austin has confirmed the approval of crucial advancements for the development of the Colony Park Sustainable Community by the Austin City Council. The next phase of the process includes plans to return to the city council early next year to finalize the financing package and related matters.

Politics

The Supreme Court of the United States (“SCOTUS”) declined to hear a case brought by a political group challenging Texas’s age-based restrictions on mail-in voting. This decision marks the end of a lengthy legal battle that saw Attorney General Ken Paxton successfully defending the Texas law on mail-in voting, ensuring its continuity.Texas law mandates that most eligible voters must vote in person, with exceptions for individuals aged 65 and above, disabled persons, those out of the county during elections, individuals about to give birth, or those confined in jail. The...
Mike Wawszczak, co-founder of the cryptocurrency trading platform Lejilex, has announced that his company and the Crypto Freedom Alliance of Texas (CFAT) have initiated a lawsuit against the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The two organizations contend that the SEC, under the leadership of Chair Gary Gensler, has unlawfully imposed its authority over the digital asset industry.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against the Biden Administration over a new federal rule that he argues undermines protections for women in educational institutions. The rule, issued by the Department of Education under Title IX, expands the definition of "sex" to include self-professed "gender identity," leading to concerns about the accommodation of transgender individuals in female-only spaces.Paxton asserts that the new regulation distorts the original intent of Title IX, which was designed to prevent sex-based discrimination in educational...