Civics 101
Thursday 16
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: VISITING JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt is currently accepting applications for a visiting justice of the peace to hear class C misdemeanor cases and more. Those selected – a legal background is required – will be part of a roster available to serve when a sitting Travis County judge is away. Deadline: Mon., June 10, 5pm 512/854-1124. www.traviscountytx.gov.
CALL FOR MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION APPLICATIONS City Council is looking for qualified folks to apply to serve on the five-member Municipal Civil Service Commission. The application can be found online, and résumés, cover letters, and supporting documents can be emailed. Due Fri., May 17, 5pm 512/974-2499. Stephanie.Hall@austintexas.gov, www.austintexas.gov.
HILL COUNTRY CONSERVANCY CALL FOR APPLICATIONS Qualified landowners managing conservation activities on private land within critical river basins throughout the Hill Country are invited to apply for financial assistance from Hill Country Conservancy, the Texas Hill Country Conservation Network, and 19 partner organizations. See online for details. Applications accepted through Tue., May 21 at 12:59pm frank@hillcountryconservancy.org, www.hillcountryconservancy.org.
TEXAS-EU BUSINESS SUMMIT An event for Texas businesses, entrepreneurs, and economic development professionals who seek to expand their footprint in Europe. 8am-6pm. UT Campus, 512/476-6666. $75+.
SPECIAL NEEDS FORUM: RESIDENTIAL CHOICES Informational session about estate planning for families who have loved ones with special needs. 11:30am-1:30pm. New York Life Austin, 6200 Bridge Point Pkwy., Bldg. IV, #300, 512/461-1383. Free. info@specialneedsforum.org, www.specialneedsforum.org.
AEB HAPPY HOUR The Austin Entertainment Business community hosts an extended happy hour to grow connections. 5-9pm. W Hotel, 200 Lavaca, 512/542-3600. www.austinentertainmentbusiness.com.
LOVE GOES THROUGH YOUR MIND A high-achieving son in an Indian American family drops out of college and returns home a different person. Followed by a Q&A with director Ronak Shah. 6pm. Asian American Resource Center, 8401 Cameron. Free. www.austintexas.gov/aarc.
WEBBERVILLE ROAD AND OAK SPRINGS DRIVE OPEN HOUSE The Transportation Department seeks community feedback for safety and mobility project. 6-7pm. Willie Mae Kirk Branch Library, 3101 Oak Springs, 512/974-9920. www.austintexas.gov/webbervillerd.
2K FREEDOM RUN/WALK & JUNETEENTH PARADE REGISTRATION Register to participate in Juneteenth run/walk or parade, to be held Saturday, June 15. 6-7:30pm. B.D.H.S. Center, 1183 Chestnut Ave.. www.juneteenthcentraltexas.com.
Friday 17
TEXAS YOUNG DEMOCRATS STATE CONVENTION U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar, the first woman of color to represent Minnesota and one of the first two Muslim-American women elected to Congress, will be among the many speakers at this year's TYD convention, open to Dems age 14-40. Fri.-Sun., May 17-19 Austin Marriott South, 4415 S. I-35. Free. www.texasyds.com.
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: VISITING JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt is currently accepting applications for a visiting justice of the peace to hear class C misdemeanor cases and more. Those selected – a legal background is required – will be part of a roster available to serve when a sitting Travis County judge is away. Deadline: Mon., June 10, 5pm 512/854-1124. www.traviscountytx.gov.
CALL FOR MUNICIPAL CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION APPLICATIONS City Council is looking for qualified folks to apply to serve on the five-member Municipal Civil Service Commission. The application can be found online, and résumés, cover letters, and supporting documents can be emailed. Due Fri., May 17, 5pm 512/974-2499. Stephanie.Hall@austintexas.gov, www.austintexas.gov.
HILL COUNTRY CONSERVANCY CALL FOR APPLICATIONS Qualified landowners managing conservation activities on private land within critical river basins throughout the Hill Country are invited to apply for financial assistance from Hill Country Conservancy, the Texas Hill Country Conservation Network, and 19 partner organizations. See online for details. Applications accepted through Tue., May 21 at 12:59pm frank@hillcountryconservancy.org, www.hillcountryconservancy.org.
BIKE TO WORK DAY Celebrate two-wheel transportation with Bike Austin's annual citywide program to get more folks on the road and raise awareness about bike commuting. Cyclists can enjoy free breakfast at over 40 fueling stations during the morning commute, plus an afterparty at Cheer Up Charlies in the evening. 7am-8pm. Citywide. www.bikeaustin.org.
DOWNTOWN AUSTIN COMMUNITY COURT ADVISORY BOARD MEETING See agenda for details. 7:30am. City Hall, 301 W. Second. www.austintexas.gov.
BUILDING BRIDGES COMMUNITY DIALOGUE Harriet Sedgwick will discuss UT's Community Engagement and Social Equity Division, including the Texas Grants Resource Center’s mission and how the community can take advantage of its resources. 9am. NAACP Austin Branch, 1709 E. 12th.
AUSTIN PUBLIC HEALTH JOB FAIR Learn about employment opportunities with the city's health department, including full- and part-time jobs, entry-level or professional positions, and training and education programs. Interpreters available for Spanish, Vietnamese, Korean, Chinese, and Arabic speakers. 10am. Asian American Resource Center, 8401 Cameron, 512/972-5173. Free. www.austintexas.gov.
AUSTIN EMERGENCY PLAN PUBLIC MEETING The city's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management will go over last year's incidents and emergency plans, and accept feedback from residents. 4pm. City Hall, 301 W. Second, 512/974-0470. www.austintexas.gov.
TYD STATE CONVENTION WELCOME RECEPTION Kickoff for the 2019 TYD State Convention with the Austin Young Democrats and the Williamson County Young Democrats. A portion of the cash bar will be donated to ECHO, working to end homelessness in Austin. 6-8pm. The Belmont, 305 W. Sixth, 512/476-2100. $5-10. www.texasyds.com.
Saturday 18
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: VISITING JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt is currently accepting applications for a visiting justice of the peace to hear class C misdemeanor cases and more. Those selected – a legal background is required – will be part of a roster available to serve when a sitting Travis County judge is away. Deadline: Mon., June 10, 5pm 512/854-1124. www.traviscountytx.gov.
TEXAS YOUNG DEMOCRATS STATE CONVENTION U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar, the first woman of color to represent Minnesota and one of the first two Muslim-American women elected to Congress, will be among the many speakers at this year's TYD convention, open to Dems age 14-40. Fri.-Sun., May 17-19 Austin Marriott South, 4415 S. I-35. Free. www.texasyds.com.
HILL COUNTRY CONSERVANCY CALL FOR APPLICATIONS Qualified landowners managing conservation activities on private land within critical river basins throughout the Hill Country are invited to apply for financial assistance from Hill Country Conservancy, the Texas Hill Country Conservation Network, and 19 partner organizations. See online for details. Applications accepted through Tue., May 21 at 12:59pm frank@hillcountryconservancy.org, www.hillcountryconservancy.org.
PUBLIC SAFETY CELEBRATION AT HILL COUNTRY GALLERIA Residents are invited to meet and celebrate with Bee Cave police officers and the Lake Travis Fire Rescue Team in honor of National Public Safety Memorial Week. Games, snacks, and more fam-friendly activities. Hill Country Galleria, 12700 Hill Country Blvd., Bee Cave, 512/263-0001. Free. hillcountrygalleria@giantnoise.com, www.hillcountrygalleria.com.
BALCONES CANYONLANDS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE GUIDED NATURE WALKS Learn about the flora and fauna that call the refuge home. 9-10:30am. 21646 1/2 E. FM 1431, Lago Vista. Free. www.fws.gov.
HOLLY POINT PROJECT COMMUNITY MEETING PARD and the Trail Foundation are kicking off their planning process for Holly Point, an inaugural Corgan Canopy fund project, with coffee, breakfast tacos, and fun activities for the kids! Attendees are also asked to provide feedback. 9am-Noon. Lorriane "Grandma" Camacho Activity Center, 34 Robert Martinez Jr., 512/391-1863. www.thetrailfoundation.org.
CASA VOLUNTEER INFO SESSION Learn what it takes to become a volunteer and ask questions regarding the agency's work advocating for kids in the court system. Refreshments provided. 10:30am-Noon. Whole Foods Market Domain, 11920 Domain Dr., 512/539-3529. Free. volunteer@casatravis.org, www.casatravis.org/infosession.
COMPOSTING CLASS Learn how to create a home composting system and help support nature's recycling system. Residents who pay the Clean Community Fee also qualify for a $75 home composting system rebate, so attend and apply! 11am-Noon. SFC Farmers' Market Downtown, Fourth & Guadalupe, 512/236-0074. Free. www.austintexas.gov.
ARTIST INFORMATION MEETING: RICKY GUERRERO POCKET PARK Requests for qualified artists to apply to design public artwork for AIPP. The request for qualifications process runs through June 20. 11am. South Austin Recreation Center, 1100 Cumberland, 512/444-6601. www.austintexas.gov.
HAWAIIAN AND PACIFIC CULTURAL ARTS EXHIBITION The Hula Halau Kae ‘epa & Keito Academy of Ethno-Cultural Performing Arts showcases traditional music, dance, and more from Hawaii and the Pacific Islands. 1-3pm. Asian American Resource Center, 8401 Cameron, 512/974-1700. Free. www.austintexas.gov/aarc.
HEY TX LEGE, CRAWL OUT OF MY UTERUS Proceeds from this pub crawl fundraiser for abortion access in Texas benefit NARAL Pro-Choice Texas, the Lilith Fund, the Bridge Collective, and Jane’s Due Process. There'll be drink specials, a raffle, and more. See Facebook for schedule. 4-8pm. Cheer Up Charlies, 900 Red River. $12. cheerupcharlies.com.
AUSTIN CITYWIDE IFTAR Mayor Steve Adler and special guest Rep. Ilhan Omar will celebrate Ramadan with Emgage Texas. 6-9:30pm. DoubleTree Hotel, 6505 N. I-35, 512/454-3737. $50. www.emgageusa.org.
Sunday 19
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: VISITING JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt is currently accepting applications for a visiting justice of the peace to hear class C misdemeanor cases and more. Those selected – a legal background is required – will be part of a roster available to serve when a sitting Travis County judge is away. Deadline: Mon., June 10, 5pm 512/854-1124. www.traviscountytx.gov.
TEXAS YOUNG DEMOCRATS STATE CONVENTION U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar, the first woman of color to represent Minnesota and one of the first two Muslim-American women elected to Congress, will be among the many speakers at this year's TYD convention, open to Dems age 14-40. Fri.-Sun., May 17-19 Austin Marriott South, 4415 S. I-35. Free. www.texasyds.com.
HILL COUNTRY CONSERVANCY CALL FOR APPLICATIONS Qualified landowners managing conservation activities on private land within critical river basins throughout the Hill Country are invited to apply for financial assistance from Hill Country Conservancy, the Texas Hill Country Conservation Network, and 19 partner organizations. See online for details. Applications accepted through Tue., May 21 at 12:59pm frank@hillcountryconservancy.org, www.hillcountryconservancy.org.
SOCIAL JUSTICE ACTIVIST MEDITATION A community-centered meditation for empathic change makers with Amira Glickman, Chanelle Glover, Alec Brownridge, Chris Isom, and Jacob Fischer. Email to reserve a spot. First & third Sundays, 10-11:45am. Casa de Luz, 1701 Toomey, 512/476-2535. $15 suggested donation. amira@sacredreststop.org, www.sacredreststop.org.
EAST AUSTIN SCOOTER TOUR Organized by Smart Trips Austin, this tour is a joint effort of the city and Capital Metro to expand mobility options – from walking to biking to transit to, yes, scooters – in various neighborhoods. An arborist will talk trees; Lime will provide the scooters and helmets, so preinstall the app (or arrive early). 10:30am. Lott Pocket Park, 1174 Curve St.. www.smarttripaustin.org/events.
MAY MEETING: HOW TO START A UNION FEAT. UPO Young Active Labor Leaders will discuss step-by-step how to form a union. Noon-1:30pm. 1106 Lavaca #200. www.texasaflcio.org.
TRAVIS COUNTY DEMOCRATIC PARTY ICE CREAM SOCIAL 2019 Enjoy some homemade ice cream while supporting TCDP and their work in recruiting voters and volunteers. 1-4pm. Brodie Homestead, 5211 Brodie. $15. www.traviscountydemocrats.org.
Monday 20
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: VISITING JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt is currently accepting applications for a visiting justice of the peace to hear class C misdemeanor cases and more. Those selected – a legal background is required – will be part of a roster available to serve when a sitting Travis County judge is away. Deadline: Mon., June 10, 5pm 512/854-1124. www.traviscountytx.gov.
HILL COUNTRY CONSERVANCY CALL FOR APPLICATIONS Qualified landowners managing conservation activities on private land within critical river basins throughout the Hill Country are invited to apply for financial assistance from Hill Country Conservancy, the Texas Hill Country Conservation Network, and 19 partner organizations. See online for details. Applications accepted through Tue., May 21 at 12:59pm frank@hillcountryconservancy.org, www.hillcountryconservancy.org.
PROJECT CONNECT OPEN HOUSE Cap Metro has big plans to improve the city's public transit! Learn about the proposed Blue Line Corridor that hopes to run between Airport and Downtown and provide feedback on the project. Can't attend? Check out the website and offer feedback online. 3-7pm. Central Library, 710 W. Cesar Chavez, 512/974-7400. Free. www.projectconnect.com.
DEMAND A RAISE FOR AISD WORKERS! Join Austin Democratic Socialists of America, Education Austin, AISD staff, and community members for a rally to demand a pay raise for public educators. 6-9pm. AISD Carruth Administration Center, 1111 W. Sixth, 512/414-1700. www.austindsa.org.
COMMUNITY CONVERSATION: CENTRAL HEALTH’S DOWNTOWN PROPERTY & FORMER BRACKENRIDGE HOSPITAL Attend to hear an update on the Central Health's redevelopment strategy (for the former University Medical Center Brackenridge) to generate revenue to fund low-income health care. 6:30-8pm. Central Health Board Room, 1111 E. Cesar Chavez. www.centralhealth.net.
Tuesday 21
BOOTS TO BUSINESS REBOOT WORKSHOP A two-part class on evaluating business concepts and how to develop a business plan for those exploring business ownership or self-employment. Tue.-Wed., May 21-22, 8:30am-4:30pm Entrepreneur Center of Austin, 4029 Capital of TX Hwy. S. #110, 512/974-7800. Free. smallbiz@austintexas.gov, www.austintexas.gov/smallbiz.
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: VISITING JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt is currently accepting applications for a visiting justice of the peace to hear class C misdemeanor cases and more. Those selected – a legal background is required – will be part of a roster available to serve when a sitting Travis County judge is away. Deadline: Mon., June 10, 5pm 512/854-1124. www.traviscountytx.gov.
HILL COUNTRY CONSERVANCY CALL FOR APPLICATIONS Qualified landowners managing conservation activities on private land within critical river basins throughout the Hill Country are invited to apply for financial assistance from Hill Country Conservancy, the Texas Hill Country Conservation Network, and 19 partner organizations. See online for details. Applications accepted through Tue., May 21 at 12:59pm frank@hillcountryconservancy.org, www.hillcountryconservancy.org.
TEXAS SMART CITIES SUMMIT 2019 Thought leaders, policymakers, designers, and developers unite to create plans and priorities to put in place smart city efforts across Texas. 8:30am-7pm. Central Library, 710 W. Cesar Chavez, 512/974-7400. $135, ($85 for nonprofit, government & higher education). info@austincityup.org, www.texassmartcities.org.
STOP THE ABORTION BANS
If you're angry about the attack on abortions here and across the U.S., this is your chance to make your voice heard. This rally, organized by the Texas Handmaids and the National Council of Jewish Women, is part of a nationwide day of protest asking those who support birthing bodies the right to choose.
Prior to the rally, NARAL will lead a sidewalk protest in front of the South Gate to the Capitol grounds at 11th and Congress. #StopTheBans.
Noon-2pm. Texas State Capitol, 1100 Congress, 512/305-8400. www.tspb.state.tx.us.SELENA FOR JUDGE: CAMPAIGN KICK OFF! Celebrate Selena Alvarenga's campaign launch for District Judge of the 460th Court in Travis County. 5-7pm. 608 W 12th St..
Wednesday 22
BOOTS TO BUSINESS REBOOT WORKSHOP A two-part class on evaluating business concepts and how to develop a business plan for those exploring business ownership or self-employment. Tue.-Wed., May 21-22, 8:30am-4:30pm Entrepreneur Center of Austin, 4029 Capital of TX Hwy. S. #110, 512/974-7800. Free. smallbiz@austintexas.gov, www.austintexas.gov/smallbiz.
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: VISITING JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt is currently accepting applications for a visiting justice of the peace to hear class C misdemeanor cases and more. Those selected – a legal background is required – will be part of a roster available to serve when a sitting Travis County judge is away. Deadline: Mon., June 10, 5pm 512/854-1124. www.traviscountytx.gov.
DON'T PUNISH PAIN RALLY An event to educate the public on the harm caused to “Americans in genuine need of legitimately prescribed, FDA-approved pain medications” in the crackdown on illegal drug use. 1-3pm. Texas State Capitol, 1100 Congress, 512/305-8400. Free. claudia@dontpunishpainrally.com, www.dontpunishpainrally.com.
CITY OF AUSTIN LAKE SAFETY WEBINAR An online overview of obtaining permits, registering boat docks, and lake safety. 1-2pm. Online. Free. www.austintexas.gov.
Thursday 23
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: VISITING JUSTICE OF THE PEACE Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt is currently accepting applications for a visiting justice of the peace to hear class C misdemeanor cases and more. Those selected – a legal background is required – will be part of a roster available to serve when a sitting Travis County judge is away. Deadline: Mon., June 10, 5pm 512/854-1124. www.traviscountytx.gov.
IEEE’S WOMEN IN ENGINEERING INTERNATIONAL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE 2019 Women in tech discuss empowerment, entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation, and disruptive technology during this two-day conference. Thu.-Fri., May 23-24, 8am-5:45pm JW Marriott Austin, 110 E. Second. Prices vary. contact@ieee-wie-ilc.org, www.ieee-wie-ilc.org.
AUSTIN FIREFIGHTERS’ RELIEF & RETIREMENT FUND MEETING See agenda for details. 9am. Austin Firefighters Pension Office, 4101 Parkstone Heights #270. www.austintexas.gov.
CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY SEAT CHECK Learn how to properly install car seats and other child passenger safety tips. 9am. Turner-Roberts Recreation Center, 7201 Colony Loop Dr, 512/972-7233. Free. EMSPubEd@austintexas.gov, www.austintexas.gov.
AUSTIN CITY COUNCIL MEETING See agenda for details. 10am. City Hall, 301 W. Second. www.austintexas.gov.
LIFEGUARD HIRING EVENT Those interested in being lifeguards, swim instructors, swim coaches, or pool cashiers for the summer can attend to complete an application, interview, and register for required training. 4-8pm. PARD Aquatic Office, 2818 San Gabriel. www.lifeguardaustin.com.
MARGARET MOORE FOR D.A. RE-ELECTION FUNDRAISER U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, state Sen. Kirk Watson, Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt, and Austin Mayor Steve Adler co-host Moore’s re-election campaign kickoff. Hobnob ’til 7pm, then watch Moore take the stage with her band, Mother Rukkus. 5:30-9pm. Speakeasy, 412-D Congress, 512/476-8017. www.margaretforda.com.
2K FREEDOM RUN/WALK & JUNETEENTH PARADE REGISTRATION Register to participate in Juneteenth run/walk or parade, to be held Saturday, June 15. 6-7:30pm. B.D.H.S. Center, 1183 Chestnut Ave.. www.juneteenthcentraltexas.com.
BOOKWOMAN BOOKGROUP DISCUSSION: INSUFFICIENT EVIDENCE Susan Kraus, author of Insufficient Evidence, will discuss her work as a writer and therapist who has supported sexual assault survivors for 40 years. 7-8:30pm. BookWoman, 5501 N. Lamar #105, 512/472-2785. www.ebookwoman.com.
Ongoing
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/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. 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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