Public Notice
Gather 'round the Yule log and the figgy pudding, get out a paper and pen, and jot down some of these items form our Annual Holiday Wish List 2000. Local organizations need you!
By Kate X Messer, Fri., Dec. 22, 2000
Wish Lists 2000, Part 1
These next two issues feature the annual "Public Notice Holiday Wish Lists," the two yearly installments of this happy li'l public service column that just toast our cockles. See, we deal with this community all year long. We aren't always able to go to the functions and actions on which we report; we aren't always able to follow up to witness the success. But we do know that year in and year out, Austin has a heart of gold -- and you can find some of her most sparkly veins right here.
Sometimes writing about Austin's public service struggles makes us feel the ups and downs and ins and outs of life -- just like George Bailey in It's a Wonderful Life. We get all Jimmy Stewart, sometimes, frustrated at the thought that we are just one little person: What possible difference could we make in the world? We marvel at the big hearts around us, the hearts that labor day in and day out to make Austin a better and kinder place for all.
We began these Wish Lists some years ago, and we've heard word that they do work. Well, not that they work, but that you do. That you, our loyal readers, answer the call and fill the hearts of those around you with your holiday generosity.
Sometimes, however, we think our friends in the public service community just don't get it. Heck, they could ask for anything -- any five things in the world. Look at these lists, and you see not only needs but also humility. The things these groups request are needs. It reminds us of that scene where the market's crashed and the town comes to withdraw their money from Bailey's Building & Loan. The town is all a-panic, and George takes his honeymoon money to quell their fears. When it's Mrs. Davis' turn in line, after a number of nervous and angry customers have withdrawn their entire accounts, she asks meekly for $17.50.
Just like George, sweet Austin, we kiss your little head. Now go thou and do likewise.
In addition to the following items, all groups desperately need cash, volunteers, and computers or computer upgrades. Call to determine their specific needs.
Institute for Weapon-Free Youth3160 Bee Caves Rd. #300C, 327-3250
Foundation for the Homeless
PO Box 1862, 78767, 453-6570We put diapers twice on purpose because it is a huge need, and they are very expensive.
AIDS Services of Austin
7215 Cameron, 458-2437 (458-AIDS)KOOP Community Radio 91.7 FM
304 E. Fifth St., 472-KOOPRude Mechanicals, The Off Center
2211-A Hidalgo, 476-RUDEMillion Mom March -- CenTex
PO Box 4168, Cedar Park, 78630-4168, 259-2767. www.millionmommarch.orgAustin Cinemaker Co-op
1705 Guadalupe St. #201, 236-8877[email protected]
American YouthWorks
216 E. Fourth, 472-8220Austin Community Gardens
4814 Sunshine Drive, 458-2009PFLAG-Austin
Parents, Families, Friends of Lesbians & GaysPO Box 9151, 78766-915, 302-FLAG (3524)
Sunrise Neighborhood Youth
4430 Manchaca, 444-3326Austin Zoo
P.O. Box 91808, 78709, 288-1490[email protected]
