Civics 101

Thursday 7

LUKE'S WISH TOY DRIVE Now through December 9, Luke’s Wish Toy Drive is accepting donations for new, unwrapped toys for children from infants to 18 years old to make the season brighter for the kids stuck in the hospital this winter. See drop-off details on Facebook. Through Dec. 9 janetpollok1@gmail.com.

HACK AUSTIN A hackathon for civic good to help Austin tackle health and safety challenges. Dec. 8, 6-8pm; Dec. 9., 9am-5pm; Dec. 10, 10am-3pm Galvanize, 118 Nueces. Free. www.austintexas.gov.

A CONVERSATION WITH SCOTT MILDER, GOP CANDIDATE FOR LT. GOV. Texas Tribune leads a conversation with Scott Milder on his run for Lt. Gov. 7:30-9am. The Austin Club, 110 E. Ninth, 512/477-9496. Free. www.texastribune.org.

ENVIRONMENT TEXAS TO PROTEST ARCTIC DRILLING INCLUSION IN FEDERAL TAX BILL Protest the Senate's recent approval of a tax bill that authorizes oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Activists are encouraged to wear Arctic-themed costumes. 10-11am. J.J. Jake Pickle Federal Building, 300 E. 8th Street. www.environmenttexas.org.

THE TAX BILL IS NOT OK: PROTEST AT AUSTIN CITY HALL A place to take action and speak out against the discriminatory tax bill. 5:30-8:30pm. Austin City Hall, 301 W. Second, 512/974-2220. www.austintexas.gov.

WORKERS FUNDRAISER FOR CHITO VELA Former and current presidents of the Workers Defense Project host a fundraiser for state rep. candidate Chito Vela. RSVP by email. 5:30-7:30pm. 2304 E. Ninth. $50 suggested donation. info@chitovela.com, www.chitovela.com.

Friday 8

ANGELS AMONG US The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area host a breakfast honoring folks who've made a significant impact in the community. 8am. Hyatt Regency Austin, 208 Barton Springs Rd., 512/477-1234. $75-5,000. www.bgcaustin.org.

ACC BUILDING BRIDGES COMMUNITY DIALOGUE FOR EQUITY AND INCLUSION Learn more about ACC's Special Populations: Support Center with Angelica Cancino de Sandoval and Lauren Sebel. 9-10am. 1709 E. 12th. Free. www.austintexas.gov.

ALL WE WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS PAID SICK DAYS Workers Defense Project goes caroling through Downtown in support of the paid sick days campaign. Open to all. 10am-1pm. Austin City Hall, 301 W. Second, 512/974-2220. www.workersdefense.org.

JOE BIDEN: AMERICAN PROMISE TOUR An evening of insight into the life and work of Joe Biden, the 47th vice president of the U.S., with moderator Amanda Lang. 7pm. Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress, 512/472-5470. $50-325. www.americanpossibilities.org.

Saturday 9

NORTH SHOAL CREEK NEIGHBORHOOD PLAN OPEN HOUSE The community is invited to review and comment on the North Shoal Creek Neighborhood Plan draft. Sat., Dec. 9, 10am-noon Pillow Elementary School, 3025 Crosscreek Dr.. www.austintexas.gov.

FIX-IT CLINIC Bring anything from jewelry to small appliances to this hands-on clinic to learn how to fix your items. Sat., Dec. 9, noon-3pm Recycled Reads, 5335 Burnet Rd., 512/974-7400. Free. www.austintexas.gov.

DYANA LIMON-MERCADO FOR TCDP CHAIR CAMPAIGN KICKOFF Support and celebrate Dyana Limon-Mercado in her run for Travis County Dem Party Chair. 3-5pm. Tamale House, 1707 E. Sixth, 512/495-9504. www.fb.com/DLMforTCDP.

Sunday 10

AUSTIN AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL WRITE-4-RIGHTS Join the party to send some holiday cheer to prisoners from around the world and their families. 5-8pm. Batch Craft Beer + Kolaches, 3220 Manor Rd., 512/350-3692. Free; donations accepted. batchatx.com.

Monday 11

SPEAK OUT AGAINST FETAL TISSUE BURIAL RULES Testify (or submit written comments) on proposed embryonic and fetal tissue burial and cremation rules. See Facebook for submission instructions. 9am-Noon. 4900 N. Lamar Blvd..

EVER AS EVER: AN EVENING OF GIVING AND GRATITUDE WITH FLOWER HILL The inaugural fundraiser to raise awareness about Flower Hill Urban Homestead Museum and connect with potential donors. Tix include food and drink. 6-9pm. Nightcap, 1401 W. Sixth, 512/628-0144. $10. info@flowerhillfoundation.org, www.flowerhillfoundation.org.

CANDIDATE FORUM: TX HOUSE 47 & LOCAL JUDGES Circle C Area Democrats host a candidate forum for the 2018 Dem Primary. 6-8pm. Trudy's Four Star, 13059 Four Star Blvd.. Free. www.circlecareademocrats.org.

TEXAS INMATE FAMILIES ASSOCIATION MEETING Have a loved one in jail? TIFA can help by offering strength to families through support, education, and advocacy. 7-8:30pm. AGE of Central Texas, 3710 Cedar #2, 512/451-4611. Free. tifa@tifa.org, www.tifa.org.

Tuesday 12

BLACK LIVES MATTER GENERAL BODY MEETING Working committees for this meeting include education, criminal justice reform, health, economics, housing, transportation, and civics. 6-7:30pm. 1705 E. 11th. www.fb.com/BlackLivesMatterAustin.

DO GOOD/THEN PARTY: HOLIDAY EDITION Join Good Party ATX for an evening of volunteering at the local food back then head over to El Taquito to hang out and order a Mealshare branded item to provide a meal to youth in need. 6pm. Central Texas Food Bank, 6500 Metropolis Dr., 512/282-2111. www.goodpartyatx.com.

CITY MANAGERS TOWN HALL Meet the City Manager finalists – finally. Spencer Cronk, current Minneapolis city coordinator, and Howard Lazarus, current Ann Arbor city administrator, will discuss their plans and answer your questions. Can't make it? Watch live at ATXN or ATXN.tv. Attendees will be asked to provide feedback after. 6:30pm. Austin Convention Center, 500 E. Cesar Chavez, 512/404-4000. www.austintexas.gov.

Wednesday 13

FY 18 FINAL REPORT WORKSHOP How to complete the FY 18 Final Report for Core, Capacity Building, Cultural Heritage Festival Program, Community Initiatives Program, and Culture Alive Program. Wed., Dec. 13, noon Twin Oaks Branch Library, 1800 S. Fifth, 512/974-9980. www.austintexas.gov.

Thursday 14

A CONVERSATION WITH THE PRESIDENT OF BAYLOR The Texas Tribune leads a conversation with Baylor President Linda Livingstone. Catch it live or via livestream. 7:30-9am. The Austin Club, 110 E. Ninth, 512/477-9496. Free. www.texastribune.org.

ONE TEXAS RESISTANCE HOLIDAY PARTY A holiday celebration to support the coalition of local orgs advocating for justice every day in Austin and beyond. 6-8pm. The North Door, 908 E. Fifth, 512/710-9765. www.fb.com/groups/onetexasresistance/about.

Ongoing

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. Danne.Williams@austintexas.gov, 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. volunteer@sotx.org, 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 deena.estrada@austintexas.gov, 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. referrals@austinlrs.org, 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.

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.

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. WinterStormTaskForce@austintexas.gov, www.speakupaustin.org/winter-storm-uri-community-feedback.

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. palmdistrictplanning@austintexas.gov, 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. info@shoalcreekconservancy.org, 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. budgetqa@austintexas.gov, 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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