The Sunday Survey: 8/15/10

It was a big week for out-of-town visitors, with President Barack Obama and the cast and crew of Scott Pilgrim Versus the World stopping by. The big difference? Texas Campaign for the Environment Executive Director Robin Schneider didn't get arrested protesting outside Scott Pilgrim.

Schneider explained that she was really protesting UT's controversial new H2Orange bottled water, but she wasn't the only person trying to clarify the real meaning of their actions this week. Austin Water Utility had their own hydrated 'splaining to do about their proposed rate increase in 2011: City staff continued to find good reasons for their inability to track thousands of old tires: Council member Cheryl Cole laid out her reasoning for backing this November's bond election; And musical institution Griff Luneburg broke his silence over the Cactus Cafe.

It was also a remarkable week for the Republican Party of Texas: After trying to smear Democratic candidate for governor Bill White, the "Party of No!" started peddling the idea of terrorist anchor babies. It's probably that kind of nonsense that has inspired Austin Interfaith to get into the election education and get-out-the-vote game in a new and interesting way.

One thing they might start explaining: How White's opponent Gov. Rick Perry received a severe spanking from Congress for his mishandling of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act cash last year – a spanking that will ensure that over 15,400 education employees will keep their jobs.

Meanwhile, if you happen to have a few thousand dollars down the back of the sofa, both the Harry Ransom Center and the the Texas Filmmakers' Production Fund are looking to preserve and create some movie memories.

And speaking of memories, we at Newsdesk would like to wish a fond farewell to our intern Jillian Richardson, who has been an invaluable addition to the team over the last few months. Good luck at college, Jillian.