Civics 101

Thursday 14

COMMUNITY CONVERSATION: POVERTY Join TCDP Chair Vincent Harding celebrates his 30th birthday with a community conversation on poverty in Central Texas. 6:30-9pm. Millennium Youth Entertainment Complex, 1156 Hargrave, 512/472-6932. www.traviscountydemocrats.org.

VETERANS PARK PLAN PROJECT KICKS OFF Austin Parks and Recreation Department hosts a community meeting to begin the planning process for Veterans Park. 6:30-8:30pm. American Legion Travis Post 76, 404 Atlanta St., 512/767-0788. www.austintexas.gov.

THE STRUGGLE TO FREE RODNEY REED: FEATURING RODRICK REED Rodney Reed has been on Texas’ death row since 1998, convicted of the 1996 murder of Stacey Stites in Bastrop, but his case has been tainted with "prosecutor misconduct, police corruption, poor defense, and institutional racism." Learn about his fight for a new trial and the Oct. 10 hearing to deal with troubling testimony from the original trial. 7pm. UT Student Activity Center, 2201 Speedway, 512/232-0818. www.justice4rodneyreed.org.

JOLT: NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION Learn about opportunities to contribute to the work Jolt is doing to empower and protect Austin's Latinx community. Ongoing work, temp work – you name it, they got it. 7-8:30pm. 4704-B E. Cesar Chavez. Free (and kid-friendly). www.jolttx.org.

Friday 15

"POP-IN" MEETING ON 2016 MOBILITY BOND CORRIDOR PROGRAM: SOUTH LAMAR BOULEVARD A series of "pop-in" meetings on the 2016 Mobility Bond Corridor Program. Learn about the corridors eligible for funding, discuss, provide feedback, and ask questions. Info available in Spanish and English, and translation services provided. 11am-4pm. Wheatsville Food Co-op, 4001 S. Lamar, 512/814-2888. www.austintexas.gov/corridormobility.

"POP-IN" MEETING ON 2016 MOBILITY BOND CORRIDOR PROGRAM: SOUTH LAMAR BOULEVARD The city is hosting a series of "pop-in" educational meetings on the 2016 Mobility Bond Corridor Program. Consisting of an information table located on each of the corridors eligible for the program funding, people can "pop in" to discuss, provide feedback, and ask questions about the Corridor Mobility Program. Information will be available in both Spanish and English, and translation services are being provided. 4:30-7pm. L.A. Fitness, 4001 S. Lamar. www.austintexas.gov/corridormobility.

JUAN GONZÁLEZ SPEAKING ON PROGRESSIVE POLITICS IN AMERICA’S CITIES Rutgers professor (and Democracy Now! co-host) Juan González discusses his latest book Reclaiming Gotham, which covers the rise of progressive mayors and city council members in major U.S. cities. 5:30pm. Workers Defense Project, 5604 Manor Rd., 512/391-2305. www.workersdefense.org.

THE FABULOUS PEOPLE PARTY Celebrate 110 years of the YWCA – the first and longest local agency working to eliminate racism and empower women of all colors and backgrounds. Hosted by Vanessa Marie Gonzalez with great performances, and an award ceremony to honor outstanding community members. 7pm. Spider House Ballroom. $20-100. www.ywcaaustin.org.

EL BUEN'S EL GRITO GALA Celebrate the culmination of El Buen's #GRITOCHALLENGE with cocktails, comida, comunidad, y/and a live auction. Journalist Ron Oliveira is the evening's Master of Ceremonies, with musical direction by Adrian Quesada. 7pm. El Buen Samaritano, 7000 Woodhue, 512/474-4448. $200. www.elbuen.org.

OVER THE LEGE PART 2: THE GOVERNOR STRIKES BACK Stephanie Chiarello Noppenberg's satire comedy variety show inspired by the shenanigans of the Texas Legislature returns. Special guests include ATPE’s Monty Exter (Sept. 22) and Sen. Kirk Watson (Sept. 29). Through Sept. 30. Fri.-Sat., 8pm Institution Theater, 3800 Woodbury, 512/895-9580. $15. www.fb.com/overthelege.

SHAKEY GRAVES AND PARKER MILLSAP HEADLINE HILL COUNTRY NIGHTS CONCERT Shakey Graves and Parker Millsap play for the 11th anniversary of Hill Country Nights – a fundraiser for Hill Country Conservancy. 8:30pm. ACL Live at the Moody Theater, 310 W. Willie Nelson, 512/404-1300. $35-60. www.hillcountryconservancy.org.

Saturday 16

THE EMMA S. BARRIENTOS MEXICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER CELEBRATES 10 YEARS! Join the Mexican American Cultural Center to celebrate their 10th anniversary with all-day festivities. Highlights include live music and an Aztec dance ceremony (and an art show on Friday – see site for details). Shuttle pickup at Sanchez Elementary and Martin Middle School. Sat. Sept. 16, events from 2pm into the evening Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center, 600 River St., 512/974-3772. Free. www.austintexas.gov.

TAKE A LOVED ONE FOR A CHECKUP DAY A national initiative encouraging people of color to see a health care professional. Free health screenings include blood sugar, blood pressure, pregnancy testing, as well as HIV/STI testing and flu vaccinations. 10am-2pm. Delco Center, 4601 Pecan Brook, 512/841-8323. www.austintexas.gov.

FLASHMOB FOR RESISTANCE Described as a "creative non-violent performance art action," this flashmob invites locals to "come together in solidarity to remind our elected officials that We The People care about the greater good" while also engaging the community. Kids 8 and older welcome with adult. See Facebook for location. 3-5pm. Somewhere in town.

CODENEXT 2.0 READING PARTY AURA and Friends of Austin Neighborhoods host a reading party on draft two of the land use code rewrite. Eat pizza, drink beer, and unpack 2.0 to figure out what’s changed, and evaluate the latest code proposal for its potential to make Austin more affordable. Please RSVP to attend. 4-8pm. Echo Apartments, Club Room, 4527 N. Lamar. www.aura-atx.org.

TRASH MAKEOVER CHALLENGE Texas Campaign for the Environment hosts its annual Trash Makeover Challenge fashion show. Enjoy craft cocktails, BBQ from Salt Lick, and marvel at designers' eco-friendly interpretations of "Living Masterpieces" from recycled materials. Download the Handbid app (see website) prior to the silent auction and you'll be entered for a chance to win a $75 Uchi gift card. 6pm. RIO Nightclub + Dayclub, 601 Rio Grande, 512/436-8464. $50. www.trashmakeover.com.

UNITE THE FIGHT GALA 2017 The Equality Alliance hosts their Inaugural Gala to raise money for multpiple LGBTQ organizations including Out Youth and Houston's Montrose Center, which was hit by Harvey. Drag stars, music, and much more. 7-11:30pm. JW Marriott Austin, 110 E. Second. $100. www.theequalityalliance.com.

Sunday 17

2017 LAKE TRAVIS CLEANUP Join dive and shoreline volunteers to remove and recycle trash from Lake Travis. Boat departs at 8am from Highland Lakes Marina, then join the afterparty at the Oasis at 11:30am. Pre-registration is required; diving participants need to provide all dive gear. 8am-1pm. Lake Travis, 512/391-0617 x706. www.laketraviscleanup.org.

OUR REVOLUTION CENTRAL TEXAS REGIONAL MEETING Attend the second regional meeting to discuss Medicare for all and hear endorsements of progressive candidates. Plus, become a member of a new local chapter. 2-4pm. St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, 14311 Wells Port Dr., 512/251-0698. www.ourrevolution.com.

Tuesday 19

"POP-IN" MEETING ON 2016 MOBILITY BOND CORRIDOR PROGRAM: BURNET ROAD The city hosts a series of "pop-in" educational meetings on the 2016 Mobility Bond Corridor Program. Consisting of an information table located on each of the corridors eligible for program funding, people can "pop in" to discuss, provide feedback, and ask questions about the Corridor Mobility Program. Information will be available in both Spanish and English, and translation services are being provided. 11am-7pm. Wal-Mart, 2525 W. Anderson. www.austintexas.gov/corridormobility.

TALK DENSITY TO ME: HAPPY HOUR & ADVOCACY NIGHT CodeNEXT draft 2.0 is out. This early happy hour will discuss the pros of greater density in Austin. Then the group will walk over to City Hall for the joint Planning Commission and Zoning & Platting Commission meeting, which will dive into the second draft. 5-6:30pm. The Ginger Man. www.aura-atx.org.

CD 21 CANDIDATE FORUM Meeting a few progressive candidates running for Congressional District 21. Derrick Crowe, Elliott McFadden, and Chris Perri are confirmed. Please RSVP via email (with questions) due to limited room capacity. 7-8:45pm. Menchaca Road Branch Library, 5500 Menchaca Rd., 512/974-8700. [email protected], www.ourrevolutiontx.com.

Wednesday 20

CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY CAR SEAT CHECK EVENT Register online or call the EMS Safety Hotline. Third Wednesday of the month Gus Garcia Recreation Center, 1201 E. Rundberg, 512/972-7233. www.austintexas.gov/event/child-passenger-safety-car-seat-check-event-81.

CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY CAR SEAT CHECK EVENT Learn how to properly install your car seat. Register online or call the EMS Safety Hotline. Third Wednesdays Gus Garcia Recreation Center, 1201 E. Rundberg, 512/972-7233. www.austintexas.gov/department/gus-garcia-recreation-center.

JUST LIBERTY PODCAST LAUNCH PARTY! After almost a year, Just Liberty is throwing a party to introduce themselves to the community and locals committed to criminal-justice reform and to introduce their new podcast "Reasonably Suspicious," which covers policy and politics. 6-8:30pm. atx FACTORY, 5323 Levander Loop. www.justliberty.org.

Ongoing

EL BUEN SAMARITANO HOSTS THE GRITO CHALLENGE El Buen Samaritano hosts a public participation challenge to raise awareness of the services they provide to Latino and immigrant families. Enter by uploading your Grito videos (a cry for independence, a halt to oppression, and a soulful shout) to social media with #gritochallenge, then tag three other people to do it on social media. Through Sept. 15 El Buen Samaritano, 7000 Woodhue, 512/474-4448. www.elbuen.org.

CALL FOR ENTRIES FOR THE 2017 AUSTIN GREEN AWARDS ATX Green Awards, which recognizes and promotes sustainability and innovation in local design, is accepting submissions now through Sept. 22 (for the awards ceremony happening Oct. 25). See website for details. Through Sept. 22, noon www.atxgreenawards.org.

PUBLIC INPUT NEEDED ON TEMPORARY CONCESSIONS IN CITY OF AUSTIN PARKS Via online survey, Austin Parks & Rec. is seeking public input on temporary concessions in city parks. Survey available through Oct. 29. www.austintexas.gov/parks.

OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR MARKETPLACE INSURANCE (OBAMACARE) Foundation Communities can help you navigate the ACA health insurance marketplace to find the plan that works best for you. Hours vary by day and location; see website for details. Through Dec. 15. Locations vary, see website. Free. www.foundcom.org/health-programs/health-insurance-enrollment.

BE A GIVER, RAISE A TITO’S Text “TITOSHOLIDAY” to 81181, select the charity of your choice – such as ASPCA and Operation Homefront, and Tito’s will donate $1 for every text received (up to $150,000). No vodka necessary. Now through Jan. 3 81181. www.titosvodka.com.

CITY OF AUSTIN ANNOUNCES NEW PUBLIC ART OPPORTUNITY FOR COLONY PARK DISTRICT PARK Professional visual artists are invited to apply to create a permanent public artwork for Colony Park. Deadline Jan. 4 www.austincreates.com.

PROPOSED CEMETERY RULES OPEN TO PUBLIC COMMENT The final draft of Austin's proposed new cemetery rules has been posted on the City Clerk's website for public feedback. Email comments to D’Anne Williams. Open through Fri., Jan. 12. [email protected], www.austintexas.gov/cityclerk.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR THE 25TH ANNUAL SOTX WINTER GAMES This year's Special Olympics Texas is Feb. 2-4, and they need your help to make it great. Volunteers needed to assist with various duties at all competition events, the Athlete Village, and medics (physicians, nurses, and EMTs needed). Sign up online; email with questions. [email protected], www.sotx.org.

FREE TAX PREP FOR LOW-INCOME AUSTIN FAMILIES Foundation Communities offer tax prep and filing assistance for low- and moderate-income residents (households making up to $55,000). Available at six locations with varying day, evening, and weekend hours – see website for specifics. www.foundcom.org/financial-stability/austin-tax-preparation. Free.

CITY COUNCIL CALLS FOR MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSIONERS Council is accepting applications from qualified folks to serve on the five-member Municipal Civil Service Commission. Two three-year terms are currently open. Apply online or email Boards and Commissions Coordinator Deena Estrada. Deadline: Fri., March 2, 5pm [email protected], www.austintexas.gov.

VOLUNTEER FOR IT'S MY PARK DAY Thousands of Austinites unite to improve and transform city parks, trails, and greenbelts. Register for a project now! Volunteer for Sat., March 3 Various Locations. www.austinparks.org.

AUSTIN ART IN PUBLIC PLACES SEEKS MURALIST AIPP is expanding its annual temporary public art program (aka TEMPO). Seven to 10 artists will be commissioned to create temporary murals across town. Budget: $2,000 and $7,000, depending on the size and complexity. Deadline: Thu., April 26. www.austincreates.com.

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR SUMMER SWIM LESSONS Swim lessons for all ages and skill levels, provided by the city of Austin Parks and Recreation Department’s Aquatic Division. $57, residents; $66, nonresidents. www.austintexas.gov/parksonline.

LEGALLINE Call 512/472-8303 for free legal advice concerning family law, criminal matters, traffic problems, consumer issues, landlord/tenant issues, and employment law. Attorneys who are bilingual (English/Spanish) are also available. First Tuesdays, 5:30-7:30pm 512/472-8303. Free. [email protected], austinlrs.org.

YWCA GREATER AUSTIN WARMLINE Call 512/548-9922 for support amidst the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic. Mondays-Thursdays, 9am-8pm; Fridays, 9-5pm; Saturdays, noon-4pm Citywide. ywcaaustin.org.

DRIVE-THROUGH VACCINE CLINIC VOLUNTEERS If you're interested in volunteering at Travis County's drive-through vaccine clinic at COTA, sign up here. Clinic open: Fridays-Sundays Travis County Expo Center, 7311 Decker. centraltxvaccs.org.

AUSTIN TRANSIT PARTNERSHIP ADVISORY COMMITTEES APPLICATIONS Applications are now open to join the following committees: Engineering, Architecture, and Construction; Finance and Risk; and Planning, Sustainability, Equity, and DBE Advisory. The governing body of the agency created to build out Project Connect, ATP will oversee funding, designing, and implementing the $7.1 billion mass transit overhaul. Ongoing Online. atptx.org.

AUSTIN PARKS AND RECREATION SUMMER CAMP LOTTERY REGISTRATION Applicants can register for a random lottery drawing for limited in-person camps. In-person camp costs $120 per week with $20 due upon acceptance of lottery spot. April 19-May 16 Online. www.austintexas.gov/parksonline.

WINTER STORM REVIEW TASK FORCE SEEKS PUBLIC COMMENT Share your experiences and recommendations related to Winter Storm Uri, which will then be incorporated into a final report for City Council. Provide feedback online via the SpeakUp Austin website, or to speak remotely at the task force meetings, call (512/974-6339) or email no later than noon the day prior to the meetings on May 14 & 28 and June 11 & 23. Ongoing Remote. [email protected], www.speakupaustin.org/winter-storm-uri-community-feedback.

I-35 CAPITAL EXPRESS NORTH PUBLIC HEARING Review the draft environmental assessment and the recommended alternative for improvements to I-35 from SH 45 N. to Hwy. 290 E. Through June 10 Online. capexnorth.mobility35openhouse.com.

AUSTIN RESOURCE RECOVERY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN SURVEY Share your feedback on ARR reaching its zero waste goals to help guide departmental efforts to measure Austin’s zero waste progress. Deadline: June 1 Online. www.austintexas.gov/department/austin-resource-recovery.

PALM DISTRICT PLANNING SURVEY Austin’s Palm District is located on the eastern edge of Downtown between I-35 and Trinity St., running from Rainey St. to 15th St. The city's Housing and Planning Department seeks public input on the future of the area as it develops the final Palm District Small Area Plan. Explore the area, take a survey, and ask questions on the city’s project website. Ongoing Online. [email protected], www.speakupaustin.org/palmdistrict.

SHOAL CREEK AUDIO WALKING TOUR SURVEY The Shoal Creek Conservancy is seeking public input to determine which stories to include in its free, self-guided tour along Shoal Creek. Deadline: June 7 Online. [email protected], www.shoalcreekconservancy.org.

TCSO VICTIM SERVICES VOLUNTEERS The Travis County Sheriff's Office Victim Services Unit needs volunteers to offer immediate assistance to victims of various criminal and crisis circumstances. Those interested must complete a training program from July 31-Aug. 28 (Mondays, virtual, 6-9pm; Thursdays, virtual, 6-9pm; Saturdays, in-person, 9am-5pm). Ongoing Online. www.tcsheriff.org.

2021-22 BUDGET ENGAGEMENT The Budget Office’s website includes explanatory videos in English and Spanish about the city’s FY 2021-22 budgeting process, as well as a short survey for residents to share their thoughts on spending priorities. The mayor and City Council are scheduled to adopt Austin’s FY 2021-22 budget and tax rate between Aug. 11-13. Ongoing Online. [email protected], www.austintexas.gov/budget.

DRIVE-UP HIV/STI TESTING No appointment necessary for free and confidential tests for HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis. Through July 23. Fridays, 9am-noon Rosewood-Zaragosa Neighborhood Center, 2800 Webberville Rd.. Free. www.austintexas.gov/health.

APA! POURS FOR PETS Austin Pets Alive! puts the "fun" in "fundraiser" this month: For $40, you can purr-chase a passport to use participating locations throughout July, and at each stop, pick up a coffee, beer, glass of wine, or even a refreshing agua fresca. The nonprofit animal shelter is partnering with Austin favorites like Irene’s, Hank’s, Cosmic Coffee, Yard Bar, and more, and proceeds go to pets in need. July 1-31 Citywide. $40 donation. austinpetsalive.org.

SUMMER LUNCH FOR TEENS AND KIDS Central Health is providing children ages 18 and under with free weekly meal packs that include breakfast and lunch for the entire week. Through Aug. 12. Thursdays, noon-2pm Central Health Southeast Health & Wellness Center, 2901 Montopolis Dr.. Free. fb.com/southeasthealthandwellnesscenter.

ARC OF THE CAPITAL AREA WILDFLOWER PROGRAM In collaboration with Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, The Arc offers classes for adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities focusing on social-emotional growth, vocational studies, life skills, active recreation, and Texas nature. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9am-2pm Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse. $150-300 per month. arcaustin.org/wildflower.

ACA SPECIAL ENROLLMENT DEADLINE Sunday, Aug. 15, is the deadline to sign up for health insurance through the federal Health Insurance Marketplace. Enroll online, via phone, or find local certified help in your area at localhelp.healthcare.gov. Deadline: Sun., Aug. 15 800/318-2596. healthcare.gov.

I-35 CAPITAL EXPRESS CENTRAL PROJECT FEEDBACK Review the Texas Department of Transportation’s $4.9 billion project by Sept. 24. TxDOT proposes to add two HOV lanes in each direction along I-35 from U.S. 290 E. to Hwy. 71/Ben White Blvd. Extended Deadline: Sept. 24 Online. my35capex.com.

CENTRAL HEALTH 2022 BUDGET ENGAGEMENT Submit your questions or comments on Central Health’s proposed FY 2022 budget and a member of Central Health’s staff will get in touch. Ongoing Online. participate.centralhealth.net/2022budget.

ZILKER PARK VISION PLAN COMMUNITY SURVEY As part of the engagement process for the first-ever Zilker Park Vision Plan – the guiding framework for the park’s restoration and future development – community members are invited to share their thoughts on the park’s programming. Deadline: Sept. 30 Online. austintexas.gov/zilkervision.

ACL ZILKER PARK ACCESS Beginning Sept. 20, the Parks and Recreation Department will close Zilker Park and select roads and street lanes in preparation for the Austin City Limits Music Festival (Oct. 1-3 & 8-10). View the city’s interactive map for more details and a schedule of park and road closures. Sept. 20-Oct. 17 Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Rd.. austintexas.gov/page/pard-facilities-closures.

SOUTH PLEASANT VALLEY ROAD IMPROVEMENTS SURVEY The city is gathering comments from residents about how they currently use South Pleasant Valley Road between St. Elmo Road and Onion Creek Park and how they would like to use the road to help guide future changes to the corridor. Deadline: Oct. 10 Online. data.austintexas.gov/stories/s/South-Pleasant-Valley-Road/b375-n8jt/.

DRIVE SAFE 2 SAVE COMPETITION Safe 2 Save, in partnership with Austin Transportation’s Vision Zero program, is hosting a competition to find Austin’s “safest driver” to discourage distracted driving and phone use. The competition features weekly cash prizes of $500, with the top three winners receiving prizes at the end. Through Oct. 15 safe2save.org/greater-austin-safe-driving-competition/.

TRANSPORTATION CRITERIA MANUAL UPDATE The TCM defines the rules, requirements, and technical guidelines for building mobility infrastructure in Austin. The city’s Transportation Department has worked to update the manual over the past two years; the current draft of the revised TCM is available for public review now through Nov. 1. Deadline: Nov. 1 Online. austintexas.gov/street-design.

AUSTIN STRATEGIC MOBILITY PLAN SURVEY Austin Transportation Department seeks community members’ feedback on three new policy changes to the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan, the city’s first comprehensive, multimodal transportation plan. Ongoing Online. austintexas.gov/asmp.

TPWD COMMUNITY OUTDOOR OUTREACH PROGRAM GRANT TPWD’s CO-OP grants provide funding to tax-exempt organizations for programming that engages under-served populations in TPWD mission-oriented outdoor recreation, conservation, and environmental education activities. Deadline: Nov. 1 Online. tpwd.texas.gov.

FORD BUILD TO CONNECT This multiday outdoor event includes displays of Ford’s all-electric F-150 Lightning truck and Mustang Mach-E SUV models. Oct. 15-24. Mon.-Fri., noon-9pm; Sat.-Sun., 9am-8pm Republic Square, 422 Guadalupe, 512/381-1147. Free. fordautoshows.com/built-to-connect.

AUSTIN LGBT CHAMBER HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE Austin’s queer business chamber hosts its annual drive for new (and unwrapped) toys, clothing, and shoes for local children. Donations will go to children and families enrolled in LifeWorks programs and CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Travis County programs. See here for a list of drop-off locations and suggested donations. Through Dec. 10 Multiple locations. austinlgbtchamber.com/toydrive.

PRIMARY ELECTION DAY WORKER Over 600 spots need to be filled at polling locations for the March 1 primaries; this is a paid position through Travis County. traviscountydemocrats.org.

WIC MOBILE UNIT Resources and info about Austin Public Health’s Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) supplemental nutrition program for qualifying pregnant women, new mothers, and young children. Check online for current schedule Various locations. Free. austintexas.gov/wic.

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