Austin Journal

News from October 2024


Hayes Carll performs at exclusive after-party during successful HAAM Day celebration

The 19th HAAM Day was celebrated last Tuesday, marking a significant event for Austin's local live music scene. The Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM) organized the day-long celebration with performances from over 300 local bands and musicians across Central Texas. The event aimed to raise funds for HAAM's healthcare services.


Austin seeks providers for bridge housing under new application request

The City of Austin has issued a Request for Applications (RFA) for qualified nonprofit or government providers to offer Bridge Housing services. This initiative aims to support clients of the Downtown Austin Community Court (DACC) Intensive Case Management (ICM) program. The service is designed as a combination of emergency shelter and transitional housing, targeting individuals who need short-term housing and supportive services.


Chris Stapleton taping details announced for ACL Live

Tapings for Chris Stapleton will begin at 8 PM CT, with theater doors opening at 7 PM and the Will Call/Front Porch Bar opening at 6 PM. Directions, parking, and other venue information can be found on the official website. ACL Live at The Moody Theater is located at 310 W. 2nd Street, Willie Nelson Blvd.


Austin ISD prepares for cross country meets and community initiatives

Austin ISD is gearing up for an active fall season with its student-athletes making significant progress both in sports and the community. Athletics plays a crucial role in the holistic development of students within the district, and regular coverage of these activities will soon be available.


Budget Committee explores cost-cutting strategies in Operations Department

The Joint Community Budget Committee convened on Tuesday to examine the Operations Department budget, which encompasses maintenance, facilities, custodial, and transportation services. This meeting marked the first phase of their exploration into potential budget reductions.


Ivan Tovar honored for 35 years of service at Austin ISD

As part of Custodian & Groundskeeper Appreciation Week, Austin Independent School District (ISD) is highlighting the dedicated staff who ensure schools run smoothly. This week, Ivan Tovar, head custodian at the Alternative Learning Center (ALC), is in the spotlight for his 35 years of service.


Palmer Events Center hosts diverse lineup of events in October

The Palmer Events Center in Austin, Texas, is set to host a series of events throughout October. Among the highlights are the Austin Record Convention and the Settlement Club Garage and Estate Sale.


Fatal crash claims life at Great Hills Trail intersection

On Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 6:22 p.m., a fatal traffic accident occurred at the intersection of Great Hills Trail and North Capital of Texas Highway. The Austin Police Department (APD) reported that an SUV traveling southbound on Great Hills Trail ran a red light and collided with a hatchback sedan traveling westbound on N Capital of Texas Highway, which had entered the intersection on a green light.


CapMetro offers transport options for Austin City Limits Music Festival

CapMetro is providing several transportation options for attendees of the 2024 Austin City Limits Music Festival at Zilker Park. Special event services will be available on both Sundays, October 6 and 13, with the last trains leaving downtown at 12:30 a.m. each night.


Teen arrested after fatal shooting at Northgate Boulevard

On Monday, September 30, 2024, Austin Police responded to a shooting at 9120 Northgate Blvd. The call came in at approximately 8:20 p.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered a Black male with an apparent gunshot wound. The victim was later identified as Ahsun Madison and was pronounced deceased on the scene at 9:01 p.m.


Unidentified man's death under investigation after incident on West Cesar Chavez Street

On September 29, 2024, a distressing incident occurred in the 500 block of West Cesar Chavez Street. At approximately 2:16 p.m., a 911 call was made to report a man acting erratically in the area. According to the caller, the man was screaming and yelling before crawling onto a bank and rolling into the water. The caller noted that the man continued to scream while swimming and punching the air until he went underwater and did not resurface.


International homebuyers boost central Texas economy with $618 million contribution

International homebuyers have made a significant impact on the Central Texas economy, contributing $618 million from April 2023 to March 2024. This data comes from the 2024 Central Texas International Homebuyers Report released by Unlock MLS. The report highlights that foreign buyers accounted for 3% of all residential sales dollar volume in the Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos metropolitan statistical area (MSA). Closed sales increased by 2% year-over-year, reaching 1,020 sales, and the median closing price rose by 0.8% to $577,778.


Austin LGBT Chamber announces nominees for Queer Frontier Business of Pride Gala

The Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce has revealed the nominees for the Queer Frontier 2024 Business of Pride Gala. This annual event recognizes businesses and community leaders across ten categories. These include Ceci Gratias Guardian (Nonprofit), Health and Wellness, Community Leader, Pride in Government, LGBT+ owned Business of the Year, Allied Member of the Year, Corporate Partner of the Year, Creative Arts, Pride in Leadership, and Rising Star.


Austin-Bergstrom International Airport prepares for increased traffic due to ACL festival

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is gearing up for a busy October with the annual Austin City Limits Music Festival. The event, which has drawn hundreds of thousands to the city in previous years, will likely result in high passenger traffic at the airport.


Austin ISD begins open enrollment with new providers

The Austin Independent School District (Austin ISD) has announced the commencement of its annual Benefits Open Enrollment period, starting October 1. This year introduces new providers, prompting an earlier enrollment deadline of October 15 for plans that will take effect on January 1, 2025.


ARC introduces AI tools to enhance patient experience

Austin Regional Clinic (ARC) is enhancing patient care by integrating new technologies to meet the needs of Central Texans. These innovations include personalized care recommendations, explanations of lab results, and AI-driven tools that aim to improve patient service and communication.


Austin-Bergstrom International Airport prepares for October travel surge

October marks a busy period at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) as the city prepares for major events. With record-breaking passenger volumes expected, AUS advises travelers to plan ahead and anticipate crowded conditions.


Austin police seek public help in identifying robbery suspect

The Austin Police Department (APD) is seeking public assistance in identifying a suspect involved in two aggravated robberies. The incidents occurred on September 29 and October 1, 2024, at Craigo’s Pizza and Tiff’s Treats, respectively.


Motorcycle accident on Burnet Road results in one fatality

On the evening of September 29, 2024, a traffic incident occurred in the 7500 block of Burnet Road involving three vehicles. According to the Austin Police Department (APD), officers responded at approximately 9:11 p.m. to a crash that involved an SUV and a motorcycle initially, followed by a secondary collision with a pickup truck. The motorcyclist was taken to the hospital but was later pronounced dead.


The Other Ones Foundation hosts Been There 3 music festival to raise funds for homeless initiatives

In a fusion of music and social impact, the Other Ones Foundation is set to host a benefit concert on November 2nd, 2024 at Radio East in Austin, Texas. This day-long event aims to support the Foundation's innovative initiatives in providing shelter and fostering independence for the city's homeless population. The concert promises an impressive lineup of performers, combining entertainment with the cause of addressing homelessness in Austin.