Civics 101

Thursday 29

COMMUNITY CONVERSATION ABOUT THE AUSTIN BOMBINGS KUTX's Morning Edition tackles the Austin bombings. Specifically: police response, the media, and the community. 9-10am. George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, 1165 Angelina, 512/974-4926. Free. www.kutx.org.

AUSTIN RESOURCE RECOVERY LANDFILL CRITERIA MATRIX STAKEHOLDER MEETING This meeting will focus on operational consideration, community impact, and social equity criteria as they relate to landfills. 10:30am-1pm. Twin Oaks Branch Library, 1800 S. Fifth, 512/974-2192. Free. www.austintexas.gov.

FREE TAX PREP HELP AVAILABLE: CENTRAL HEALTH StreetCred will be helping low-income patients and the general public file their taxes and identify/claim credits for which they are eligible during hours listed. 11am-8pm. CommUnityCare Southeast Health & Wellness Center, 2901 Montopolis. www.mystreetcred.org/program.

Friday 30

CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY CAR SEAT CHECK Certified safety technicians demonstrate how to properly install a car seat. Register online or call the EMS Safety Hotline. 9am. Montopolis Recreation Center, 1200 Montopolis, 512/972-7233. Free. www.austintexas.gov/department/ems.

FREE TAX PREP HELP AVAILABLE: CENTRAL HEALTH StreetCred will be helping low-income patients and the general public file their taxes and identify/claim credits for which they are eligible during hours listed. 1-5pm. CommUnityCare Southeast Health & Wellness Center, 2901 Montopolis. www.mystreetcred.org/program.

Saturday 31

FREE TAX PREP HELP AVAILABLE: CENTRAL HEALTH StreetCred will be helping low-income patients and the general public file their taxes and identify/claim credits for which they are eligible during hours listed. 9am-5pm. CommUnityCare Southeast Health & Wellness Center, 2901 Montopolis. www.mystreetcred.org/program.

FREE TAX PREP HELP AVAILABLE: PEOPLE'S COMMUNITY CLINIC StreetCred will be helping low-income patients and the general public file their taxes and identify/claim credits for which they are eligible during hours listed. 9am-5pm. People’s Community Clinic, 1101 Camino La Costa. www.mystreetcred.org/program.

17TH ANNUAL CESAR E. CHAVEZ MARCH Honor the life and legacy of Cesar Chavez while marching for workers rights, DREAMERS, the right to say and the right to return. Meet at the library and march to Pan American Center, 2100 E. 3rd Street. There will be speakers, music, and dance to celebrate. 10am-1pm. Terrazas Branch Library, 1105 E. Cesar Chavez, 512/974-3625. https://library.austintexas.gov/terrazas-branch.

BIKE TO MANOR ROAD DAY The community is invited to bike to Manor Road to enjoy and support offerings by this bike-friendly business district. Sat., March 31, noon-4pm. Manor Road. Free. www.bikeaustin.org.

Monday 2

AUSTIN RESOURCE RECOVERY LANDFILL CRITERIA MATRIX STAKEHOLDER MEETING This meeting will focus on defining the scoring methodology of the landfill criteria matrix. 10:30am-12:30pm. Terrazas Branch Library, 1105 E. Cesar Chavez, 512/974-2192. Free. www.austintexas.gov.

FREE TAX PREP HELP AVAILABLE: PEOPLE'S COMMUNITY CLINIC StreetCred will be helping low-income patients and the general public file their taxes and identify/claim credits for which they are eligible during hours listed. 4-8pm. People’s Community Clinic, 1101 Camino La Costa. www.mystreetcred.org/program.

SAFE BABY ACADEMY (SPANISH) A class – conducted in Spanish – for expectant families, parents, and caregivers of kids under 12 months. Register online or call. 4pm. People's Community Clinic, 1101 Camino La Costa, 512/972-7233. Free. www.austintexas.gov/department/ems.

LIBERAL AUSTIN DEMOCRATS Travis County Democratic Party Chair-elect Dyana Limon-Mercado will speak. Open to all. 7-8:30pm. Scholz Garten, 1607 San Jacinto, 512/474-1958. Free. liberalaustindemocrats@gmail.com, www.scholzgarten.com/.

Tuesday 3

AUSTIN FAIR HOUSING SUMMIT A summit celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Fair Housing Act. Hosted by Austin's Equal Employment & Fair Housing Office, the Texas Workforce Commission Civil Rights Division, and UT's LBJ School of Public Affairs. For a full breakdown of keynotes and sessions, see schedule. Tue., April 3-Thu., April 5; times vary see schedule Austin Convention Center, 500 E. Cesar Chavez, 512/404-4000. $75-$225. www.austinfairhousingsummit.com.

CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY CAR SEAT CHECK Certified safety technicians demonstrate how to properly install a car seat. Register online or call the EMS Safety Hotline. 9am. Dove Springs Recreation Center, 5801 Ainez, 512/972-7233. Free. www.austintexas.gov/department/ems.

COMMUNITY RALLIES TO SAY HOMELESSNESS IS NOT A CRIME The Decarcerate ATX coalition addresses the city ordinances criminalizing homelessness outside the Fair Housing Summit. Speakers include folks who've experienced homelessness along with allies from faith, service, and advocacy organizations. A performance bu Gathering Ground Theatre group will follow. 9am. Austin Convention Center, Atrium Entrance, Trinity St. & E. 4th St..). www.gatheringgroundtheatre.org.

TRAVIS COUNTY VOTER REGISTRATION TRAINING Become a volunteer deputy registrar. After completing this training, VDRs will be certified to register voters in Travis County. No reservation required. First Saturdays, 10:30am; first Tuesdays, 10:30am, 2:30pm, and 6:30pm. Travis County Tax Office, 5501 Airport, 512/854-9473. www.TravisCountyTax.org.

FREE TAX PREP HELP AVAILABLE: PEOPLE'S COMMUNITY CLINIC StreetCred will be helping low-income patients and the general public file their taxes and identify/claim credits for which they are eligible during hours listed. 4-8pm. People’s Community Clinic, 1101 Camino La Costa. www.mystreetcred.org/program.

LEGALLINE Need a legal question answered? This hotline can help. Lawyers will answer your questions and give referrals to appropriate community organizations. First Tuesdays, 5:30-7:30pm 512/472-8303. Free. www.austinlrs.org.

KICK-OFF MEETING FOR BARTON SPRINGS BATHHOUSE REHABILITATION The Austin Parks and Recreation Department invites the public to join them for the design kick-off for the Barton Springs Bathhouse rehabilitation project. 5:30-7pm. Austin Energy, 721 Barton Springs Rd., 512-974-9510. Free. John.McKennis@austintexas.gov, www.austintexas.gov.

INTRODUCTION TO CULTURAL ARTS FUNDING PROGRAMS Learn how to apply for the Core and Cultural Heritage Festivals Funding Programs. 6pm. Spicewood Springs Library, 8637 Spicewood Springs Rd., 512/974-3800. Free. www.austintexas.gov.

ZONING AND PLATTING COMMISSION MEETING See agenda for details. 6pm. Austin City Hall, 301 W. Second, 512/974-2220. Free. www.austintexas.gov.

CENTRAL HEALTH COMMUNITY CONVERSATION Join the conversation on Central Health's Strategic Work Plan and share your thoughts on 2019 budget priorities. 6:30-8pm. CommUnityCare, 2901 Montopolis. Free. www.centralhealth.net.

AJC GENERAL BODY MEETING Monthly general body meeting to stay up to date with all things AJC. 6:30-8:30pm. University Hills Branch Library, 4721 Loyola, 512/974-9940. Free. www.austinjustice.org.

CULTURAL ARTS FUNDING APPLICATION NARRATIVE AND BUDGET WORKSHOP A workshop focusing on the narrative and budget portions of Cultural Arts Funding applications. Attendees are encouraged to bring a laptop or tablet. 7pm. Spicewood Springs Library, 8637 Spicewood Springs Rd., 512/974-3800. Free. www.austintexas.gov/department/cultural-funding.

LAND USE COMMISSIONS JOINT MEETING A CodeNEXT work session covering Mobility, Neighborhood Character, and Procedures. 7:30pm. Austin City Hall, 301 W. Second, 512/974-2220. Free. www.austintexas.gov.

Wednesday 4

AUSTIN CITY COUNCIL – BUDGET WORK SESSION For more information, visit the Council Meeting Information Center. 9am. Austin City Hall, 301 W. Second, 512/974-2220. Free. www.austintexas.gov/department/city-council.

CURBSIDE COMPOSTING INFORMATIONAL TABLE Milwood residents are invited to learn how their new green composting carts work, what can be composted, and best practices for food scrap collection. 3:30-5:30pm. Milwood Branch Library, 12500 Amherst, 512/974-2744. Free. www.library.austintexas.gov.

WALTER E. LONG METROPOLITAN PARK MASTER PLAN COMMUNITY MEETING / OPEN HOUSE An open house for the public to voice their opinions on the Walter E. Long Metropolitan Park master planning process. 6-8pm. Decker Middle School, 8104 Decker. Free. www.austintexas.gov.

Thursday 5

COMMUNITY INITIATIVES APPLICATION WORKSHOPS A workshop on how to complete the cultural arts grant application. Attendees are encouraged to bring a laptop or tablet. Thu., April 5, noon Cultural Arts Division offices, 201 E. Second. Free. www.austintexas.gov/department/cultural-arts.

FUNDRAISER FOR CHITO VELA Chito Vela, State Rep. candidate for District 46, hosts a public fundraiser at the historic home of D'Ann Johnson. 5-7pm. 1604 E. 11th. Free. www.chitovela.com.

CENTRAL HEALTH COMMUNITY CONVERSATION Join the conversation on Central Health's Strategic Work Plan and share your thoughts on 2019 budget priorities. 6:30-8pm. Lanier High School, 1201 Payton Gin, 512/414-2514. Free. www.centralhealth.net.

Ongoing

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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