Austin Journal Reports News


Study Reveals Touch as Key Driver for Early Self-Recognition in Babies

AUSTIN, Texas — A recent study conducted by scientists at The University of Texas at Austin has shed light on the development of self-recognition in babies, revealing touch as a crucial factor in this milestone. The findings challenge long-held beliefs about the innate nature of self-recognition in early childhood.Professor Jeffrey Lockman, one of the senior authors of the study, highlighted the significance of babies' self-directed activities, stating, "This suggests that babies pulling on their toes or tapping their fingers are not just playing. They are developing...


Attorney General Ken Paxton Releases School Safety Guidance and Makes OAG Training Available to School Resource Officers

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has issued an advisory outlining the mandates under state law for school districts to enhance student safety measures. The guidance aims to inform Texas families about the regulations in place, empowering them to ensure that school districts are effectively implementing policies crucial for safeguarding children within educational environments.Under the updated state law, school districts are now obligated to equip every classroom with silent panic alarms, have armed security officers stationed on each campus, mandate specific staff...


City Council approves $28M in tree trimming funds for Austin Energy

The Austin City Council has approved a contract extension worth up to $28 million for tree trimming and vegetation management around Austin Energy's electrical distribution lines. The extension will last until the end of 2024 and is intended to address the depletion of funds from existing contracts, due to rate adjustments and multiple weather events.


City of Austin City Council met Feb. 15

City of Austin City Council met Thursday, Feb. 15


City of Austin Public Health Committee met Feb. 7

City of Austin Public Health Committee met Wednesday, Feb. 7


City of Austin Housing and Planning Committee met Jan. 23

City of Austin Housing and Planning Committee met Tuesday, Jan. 23


City of Austin City Council will meet March 21

City of Austin City Council will meet at 10 a.m., Thursday, March 21


City of Austin Public Health Committee met March 20

City of Austin Public Health Committee met Wednesday, March 20


City of Austin City Council met Feb. 13

City of Austin City Council met Tuesday, Feb. 13


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.


UT president: ‘We know that what starts here changes the world, and that is especially true in health care, AI, robotics and life sciences’

The University of Texas (UT) is set to host five panels during the "South by Southwest (SXSW)" event on March 8 and 9. The panels will delve into a variety of topics including technology, health, science, sports, and lifestyle. UT President Jay Hartzell has expressed that these discussions will not only showcase the university but also provide insights into how digital innovations are poised to influence the economy.


Austin ISD Celebrates Pride Week in 2024

Austin ISD is gearing up to celebrate Pride Week as a way to underscore the district's dedication to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all individuals. The week-long festivities, scheduled from March 18 to March 23, 2024, coincide with the National LGBT Health Awareness Week, emphasizing the district's commitment to promoting acceptance and positivity.In a statement, it was highlighted that promoting an attitude of acceptance plays a crucial role in creating a conducive learning environment where students feel empowered to express their true selves. The...


Lejilex co-founder: Lawsuit against SEC aims to 'put an end to its aggressive and unorthodox enforcement actions' in the crypto industry

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.


The Salvation Army in Austin seeking volunteers to tutor children

The Salvation Army's Austin Area Command is urging volunteers to assist in tutoring children at The Rathgeber Center for Families and The Austin Shelter for Women and Children. Volunteers will collaborate with the organization’s child program manager and classroom teacher to aid students with homework, reading skills, and other activities.


City of Austin Housing Finance Corporation Board of Directors will meet March 7

City of Austin Housing Finance Corporation Board of Directors will meet at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, March 7


City of Austin City Council will meet March 7

City of Austin City Council will meet at 10 a.m., Thursday, March 7


City of Austin City Council met Feb. 27

City of Austin City Council met Tuesday, Feb. 27


Austin considers city petition process changes

The City of Austin Charter Commission, appointed by the City Council, is advancing a proposal to increase the signature requirements for voter-initiated ordinances and council recalls. The Save Our Springs Alliance warns that if voters approve this measure in November 2024, it would curtail the existing rights of direct democracy in Austin.


City of Austin City Council met Feb. 1

City of Austin City Council met Thursday, Feb. 1


City of Austin City Council met Jan. 30

City of Austin City Council met Tuesday, Jan. 30