Austin
Austin

The Magic Win Big in Game 3 and Embiid Drops 50 on the Knicks. Plus, the Lakers Fall 0-3.

The hosts discuss key moments in recent playoff basketball games, including Paolo Banchero's impact and Joel Embiid's outstanding performance. [ more ]

www.nytimes.com

13 hours ago

Pentagon Announces Additional $6 Billion in Military Aid for Ukraine

The United States will provide Ukraine with a $6 billion security assistance package for military hardware. [ more ]

Bullets Forever

17 hours ago

Mystics exercise Shakira Austin's fourth year option

Washington Mystics exercised the fourth year option for center Shakira Austin, a key player drafted in 2022.

Retaining lottery picks like Austin with fourth-year options is standard practice in the WNBA, ensuring top talents remain with their teams. [ more ]

www.ocregister.com

21 hours ago

Austin's Texas glow Is fading

Austin, a Covid-era economic superstar, is facing a downturn with Oracle moving headquarters to Nashville due to an office glut and falling real estate prices. [ more ]

The Mercury News

21 hours ago

Austin's Texas glow Is fading

Austin's economy, once a Covid-era economic superstar, is facing challenges with the departure of Oracle's headquarters and a significant increase in commercial office space vacancy and fall in real estate prices. [ more ]

www.theguardian.com

23 hours ago

A local's travel guide to Austin: what to eat, see and do in three days

Austin is a top destination for visitors, bachelorette parties, and offers a unique experience with music, food, and history. [ more ]

Washington Post

Criticism, praise of Texas Gov. after dramatic use of troopers on protesters

Gov. Abbott called in state troopers to clear pro-Palestine protesters at the University of Texas, signaling his assertiveness and the response's impact. [ more ]

Truthout

UT Austin Faculty Strike in Solidarity With Pro-Palestine Student Protesters

Faculty are leveraging their power to protect student movements by initiating work stoppages without a union, challenging restrictions on collective bargaining. [ more ]

Soccer News

Austin FC v LA Galaxy: Im happy with where were at - Vanney - Soccer News

LA Galaxy coach Greg Vanney is satisfied with team's development but aims to improve game management. [ more ]

Truthout

Across the US, Campus Protests for Palestine Face Intensifying Police Crackdowns

Student protests call for university divestment from Israel and US arms industry. [ more ]

austin-water

Austin Monitor

Amid worsening drought, Austin Water floats updates on conservation and drought contingency plan - Austin Monitor

Austin Water aims to reduce daily water consumption per capita from 127 to 123 gallons by 2029, with plans for wastewater recycling and infrastructural improvements. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Council OKs contract for advice on additional water pump station - Austin Monitor

City Council approved a $3 million contract for a study on a new pump station and reservoir in Southwest Austin.

The study aims to enhance redundancy, relieve reliance on the Davis Lane Pump Station, and address issues identified post-Winter Storm Uri. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Austin Water report shows few traces of 'forever chemicals' in drinking water - Austin Monitor

Little to no detectable traces of PFAS found in Austin's drinking water, verified by EPA tests.

Only one PFAS compound, PFBA, was found in trace amounts within acceptable limits. [ more ]

moreaustin-water

Austin Monitor

Workforce leaders talk how to grow skilled trades pipeline to 10,000+ workers annually - Austin Monitor

The shortage of skilled workers in Austin requires proactive training initiatives to meet the increasing demand for labor in various sectors. [ more ]

arrests

www.theguardian.com

Fox journalist among dozens arrested at Texas university as protests swell

Police clash with protesters at University of Texas at Austin resulting in arrests, including a photojournalist, amid demands for divestment from companies linked to Israel's war efforts. [ more ]

ABC7 San Francisco

University of Texas police and state troopers respond pro-Palestine protests on campus

Pro-Palestine protests at University of Texas Austin campus leading to multiple arrests and police involvement. [ more ]

www.mediaite.com

WATCH: Police Break Up Pro-Palestinian Protest at The University of Texas at Austin, Arrests Made

Pro-Palestinian protesters faced arrest in a tense confrontation at The University of Texas at Austin. [ more ]

morearrests

www.mediaite.com

Texas Governor Greg Abbott Declares, These Protestors Belong in Jail'

Pro-Palestinian protestors at the University of Texas at Austin face arrests and accusations of antisemitism by Governor Greg Abbott. [ more ]

Fast Company

Tesla layoffs update: California and Texas employees will see job loses as the EV maker moves to streamline its workforce

Tesla announced more than 10% global workforce reduction, with California and Texas being hit hardest, revealing details through state filings. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Travis County tests out program to provide lawyers for low-income defendants at its downtown jail - Austin Monitor

Travis County implements 'counsel at first appearance' program to provide lawyers for low-income accused individuals, with past challenges due to staffing shortages. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

City could push 'agrihood' combos of farmland, housing developments in East Austin - Austin Monitor

Agrihood developments in Northeast Austin combine community farms with housing to address housing needs, development pressures, and local food system stability. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Design Commission hears how buildings can be safer for birds - Austin Monitor

The Travis Audubon Society hopes to lead Austin towards bird-friendly building policies to save hundreds of birds annually with minimal cost impact. [ more ]

The Ringer

Ant Rises to the Occasion and Bounce-Back Games to Watch

The importance of home-court advantage in the playoffs is significant. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

City budget writers outline some rate increases - Austin Monitor

Property taxes are the largest revenue source for Austin's General Fund, with sales taxes being the second-largest. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

New EV station will not charge forward in East Austin - Austin Monitor

City planning commission rejects electric-vehicle charging lot due to concerns about auto-centric nature in a pedestrian-oriented area. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Why is someone suing to get Travis County DA Jose Garza out of office - and what comes next? - Austin Monitor

HB 17 enables removal of top prosecutors like José Garza based on policy disagreements. [ more ]

ABC7 San Francisco

Texas Gov. Abbott proposes ban on gender-nonconforming behavior in public school classrooms

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott champions conservative policies, including school vouchers, and makes controversial comments targeting transgender people at a convention in Dallas. [ more ]

www.caughtoffside.com

Tottenham have held talks with 25-year-old over a new contract;

Tottenham is in discussions with goalkeeper Brandon Austin for a contract extension to secure the future of the promising shot-stopper. [ more ]

www.nytimes.com

5 days ago

The 25 Best Restaurants in Austin Right Now

Highlighting favorite restaurants in cities across the US, constantly updating as they discover new gems. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

5 days ago

Council approves initiative to conduct inventory of public trees - Austin Monitor

Monday, April 22, 2024 by Amy Smith

The Ringer

6 days ago

Erik Spoelstra Is the NBA's Best Coach and Power Ranking the League's GOAT Dynasties

Analyzing Miami's win, Celtics competition, ranking NBA dynasties, previewing Magic vs. Cavaliers series. [ more ]

Hogs Haven

Austin McNamara could be Washington's punter of the future

Austin McNamara, a standout punter from Texas Tech, shows consistent improvement, setting records and earning accolades in his college career. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Austin outlaws the construction of windowless bedrooms - Austin Monitor

Austin City Council passed an amendment requiring natural light in bedrooms to improve student well-being. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Extra security, extra stress, new rules at Council meeting - Austin Monitor

Speakers now have three minutes instead of two at City Council meetings due to a temporary restraining order, impacting timing but leading to smoother proceedings. [ more ]

Fast Company

NYC vs. Texas? Actually, they're both top destinations for tech talent right now

Austin is the fastest-growing city for tech talent in the U.S. [ more ]

city-council

Austin Monitor

New rules in the works for electric vehicle charging stations - Austin Monitor

City Council is considering new land use regulations for public EV charging stations to align with Austin's climate protection goals. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Marshalling Yard shelter could get $1M extension and stay open through March 2025 - Austin Monitor

Marshalling Yard shelter may receive extension to increase success in moving inhabitants to stable housing [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Council hears proposed changes to city charter for November ballot - Austin Monitor

Council received proposed city charter revisions, including 3.5% signature threshold for petition requirements, to be discussed for potential action in May and on the November 2024 ballot. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

City eyes code amendments to increase affordable housing for UT students - Austin Monitor

The City Council is considering amendments to the University Neighborhood Overlay program to improve housing affordability for University of Texas students and potentially bring a grocery store to the area. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Council and Planning Commission hear from public on proposed land use changes - Austin Monitor

With minimal resistance, Austin's land use code revisions are likely to be approved, supported by a majority at recent public hearings. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

HOME returns to Council and Planning Commission for public hearing - Austin Monitor

The second phase of the HOME initiative focuses on reducing minimum lot sizes for single-family zoned properties in Austin.

The joint hearing by City Council and the Planning Commission will address proposed changes related to single-family properties, ETOD, citywide compatibility, and electric vehicle charging. [ more ]

morecity-council

Austin Monitor

TipSheet: Austin City Council, 4.18.24 - Austin Monitor

Thursday, April 18, 2024 by Elizabeth Pagano

SFGATE

Jenna Elfman Puts Her Chic Austin Abode on the Rental Market for $13.5K a Month

Jenna Elfman has put her Austin home up for rent at $13,500 per month. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Planning Commission endorses 'plot twist' for South Central Waterfront Plan - Austin Monitor

Quick approval of South Central Waterfront Plan despite concerns. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Women entrepreneurs seek greater support and opportunities throughout Austin - Austin Monitor

Increase access to capital, networks, and business tools for women entrepreneurs in Austin. [ more ]

New York Post

'Hoolies' gangbangers convicted after NYC street war shootings including stray bullet killing of baby: DA

Gang members convicted for Brooklyn shootings, including the stray-bullet slaying of a baby. [ more ]

Brooklyn Paper

Two Hoolie gang members found guilty in shooting death of 22-month-old Davell Gardner: DA * Brooklyn Paper

Members of the Hoolie gang convicted for the shooting death of a toddler at a 2020 Brooklyn cookout. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Budget deficit looms over city this year and beyond - Austin Monitor

The city of Austin is facing a significant deficit with financial projections for 2025 showing a much larger shortfall, impacting city services and employee compensation. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Travis County Diversion Center moves forward - Austin Monitor

Travis County jail system is major mental health care provider; plans for mental health diversion center [ more ]

PortlandTribune.com

Oregon football defensive back Daylen Austin arrested for hit and run

Oregon football defensive back Daylen Austin arrested for hit and run with injury. Potential felony consequences. [ more ]

www.dw.com

US, China defense leaders hold first talks in 18 months DW 04/17/2024

US and China engage in military talks to manage rising tensions. Importance of open communication and respecting international law highlighted. [ more ]

www.aljazeera.com

China, US defence chiefs hold first substantive talks in nearly 18 months

Austin and Dong Jun held important talks on restoring military ties, emphasizing the South China Sea, Taiwan, and North Korea. [ more ]

The Ringer

How We Define the League's Top Guards and Playoff Predictions

The podcast discusses play-in teams, playoff matchups, the potential success of OKC as the top seed in the Western Conference, and the Team USA squad for the Olympics. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Judge rules city can't use taxpayer money for South Central TIRZ - Austin Monitor

City of Austin halted $354 million funding for Statesman development due to illegal TIRZ creation.

Judge's ruling challenges misuse of public money on private developments. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Austin's airport is getting a new concourse and 20 more gates but not until the 2030s - Austin Monitor

ABIA's Concourse B facing delays due to pandemic but aims to accommodate 40 gates by 2030 to meet surging passenger demand. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

ACLU sues Travis County for failing to provide legal counsel - Austin Monitor

Receiving counsel at first appearance (CAFA) is a constitutional right for jailed individuals who cannot afford a private lawyer, a failure addressed by the ACLU. [ more ]

homelessness

Austin Monitor

Advocates for ending homelessness say rental assistance program doesn't go far enough - Austin Monitor

Rapid rehousing programs in Austin sometimes fail to close the affordability gap for recipients, leading to potential homelessness risk. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

County backs $7.2M SAFE Alliance housing in East Austin - Austin Monitor

Travis County allocates $7.2 million for supportive housing development for homeless and survivors of violence

SAFE Alliance to offer trauma-informed supportive services at the Lancaster complex. [ more ]

morehomelessness

Austin Monitor

Enduring clarity and pressing forward with you - Austin Monitor

Running a nonprofit news organization can be challenging amidst industry transformation, but clarity in purpose and strong community focus can sustain longevity. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Historic Landmark Commission to honor Russell Lee, iconic American photojournalist - Austin Monitor

Monday, April 15, 2024 by Kali Bramble

Austin Monitor

Disability commission to seek replacement of group home rules stricken from code - Austin Monitor

Advocates for people with disabilities are concerned that recent building code changes in Austin may allow unregulated group homes to proliferate, impacting the independence of those individuals. [ more ]

Axios

Israel defense minister to Pentagon: We have no choice but to retaliate against Iran

Israel feels compelled to respond to Iran's missile and drone attack, despite caution from Western allies to avoid escalating tensions. [ more ]

Axios

Biden admin announces $6.4B for Samsung to expand chip production in Texas

The preliminary agreement with Samsung and the Commerce Department will boost investment and job creation in semiconductor manufacturing, enhancing domestic chip production. [ more ]

Entrepreneur

Clinton Sparks Podcast: Beverly Hills 90210 and Entrepreneurship with Brian Austin Green | Entrepreneur

Always waiting for the best option may hold you back. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Tourism Commission pushes Council for more equitable funding for arts groups, districts - Austin Monitor

Tourism Commission pushing for city funding for cultural districts and local arts groups historically overlooked for support. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Save Our Springs Alliance sues City Council over Open Meetings Act - Austin Monitor

Save Our Springs Alliance sues city, mayor, and Council alleging violations of Open Meetings Act and City Charter procedures. [ more ]

Inside Higher Ed | Higher Education News, Events and Jobs

Why we hate to wait: Academic Minute

Today on the Academic Minute: Annabelle Roberts, assistant professor of marketing at the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin, explains why we're most impatient right before we get what we want.

Austin Monitor

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson declares his plans to run for reelection - Austin Monitor

Mayor Kirk Watson announced reelection campaign with key achievements highlighted.

Watson faces competition from notable candidates for a four-year mayoral term in November 2024. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Travis County officials credit moderate eclipse traffic to planning and clouds - Austin Monitor

Photo by Julius Shieh/KUT News

Thursday, April 11, 2024 by Luz Moreno-Lozano, KUT

Monday's total solar eclipse did not bring the massive crowds and traffic that some thought the Austin area might see.

ABC7 San Francisco

Bay Area eclipse travelers stranded in Austin after airport mishap led to 3-hour lines

Southwest Airlines operations resume after eclipse influx in Austin. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

PARD updates plans for new Dougherty and for cultural center expansions - Austin Monitor

Thursday, April 11, 2024 by Chad Swiatecki

The city is moving forward with plans to replace the Dougherty Arts Center with a new multiphased facility located in the Butler Shores Park area.

BikeMag

Austin Dooley Shreds Offseason Downhill Laps In "No Time Off"

Austin Dooley is a professional downhill racer from California who puts in offseason work to master his craft.

Dooley recently achieved success at the Monster Pro Downhill Series and is expected to have a strong 2024 season. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

New federal cash paves way for East Austin's 'wishbone' bridge over Lady Bird Lake - Austin Monitor

The city of Austin received a $4 million grant from the federal government to fund a $25 million pedestrian bridge project on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail.

The unique three-pronged bridge will feature a 76-foot-wide plaza with public artwork by Houston artist Dixie Friend Gay and will also involve the replacement of a pedestrian tunnel with a more spacious one. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Democrats vs. Republicans: First election coming for Travis Central Appraisal District board - Austin Monitor

Three Democrats, three Republicans, and a Libertarian are running for three seats on the Travis Central Appraisal District Board of Directors.

Potential impact on school districts due to the election of board members who may influence property value decisions. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Study raises questions about senior/child care center proposed for Nash Hernandez Building - Austin Monitor

Feasibility of using Nash Hernandez Building questioned for IRAC

Legal and financial constraints affecting proposed center location and services. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

City looks to land banks as additional option to curb displacement - Austin Monitor

Exploring use of tax-delinquent properties for affordable housing.

Importance of land banks and community land trusts in long-term affordability. [ more ]

www.mediaite.com

Pentagon Chief Absolutely' Refutes Protestors' Claims U.S. Greenlit Genocide' In Gaza: No Evidence of That' Happening

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin stated there was no evidence of genocide in Gaza by Israel.

Austin emphasized commitment to assist Israel in defense with security aid, denouncing accusations of greenlighting genocide. [ more ]

Axios

Defense Sec. Austin says U.S. doesn't have "any evidence" of Israel committing genocide in Gaza

The U.S. does not have evidence of Israel committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.

Defense Secretary Austin's careful wording implies a nuanced stance on the issue of genocide accusations. [ more ]

Steelers Depot

Buy Or Sell: WR Calvin Austin III Has No Significant Role In Arthur Smith's Steelers Offense

Calvin Austin III is not expected to be a starter in the Steelers' offense, likely fourth on the wide receiver depth chart.

Arthur Smith prefers to use extra blockers like MyCole Pruitt and Austin is considered one-dimensional due to his size. [ more ]

Steelers Depot

Labriola: Russell Wilson's Workouts Included WRs Calvin Austin III, Van Jefferson

Austin Monitor

Landmark commission embraces green initiatives - Austin Monitor

Historic Landmark Commission recommends sustainability-focused preservation policies.

Initiatives include incentives for material salvaging and relocation practices. [ more ]

Poynter

Gannett journalists in the solar eclipse's path go on strike - Poynter

Journalists at Gannett newsrooms in Austin and Rochester go on strike during the total solar eclipse.

Austin and Rochester reporters continue strike over stalled contract negotiations despite eclipse coverage plans. [ more ]

PinkNews | Latest lesbian, gay, bi and trans news | LGBTQ+ news

Madonna 'publicly shames' former music producer - who she used 'witchcraft' on

Madonna publicly shamed music producer Dallas Austin during her tour by revealing past love and naming him in front of fans.

Madonna hinted at using supernatural means to try and win Dallas Austin's heart. [ more ]

www.mercurynews.com

MLS: Austin rallies to 4-3 victory over San Jose Earthquakes

Sebastian Driussi scored two goals in Austin FC's 4-3 victory over San Jose Earthquakes.

Austin FC rallied from behind to secure a win in the final minutes of the match. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Panelists: Transmission lines, local generation needed to meet Austin's energy demands - Austin Monitor

Austin Energy faces challenges in meeting the energy demands of a growing city.

The city needs more transmission lines, local generation, and distribution to prevent power outages and price increases. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Austin hires T.C. Broadnax as city manager with $470K salary - Austin Monitor

T.C. Broadnax's substantial salary increase in his new role as Austin's city manager.

Broadnax's commitment to Austin's growth, challenges, and inclusivity. [ more ]

The Ringer

Teams Struggling at the Worst Time and Joel Embiid's Return

Austin Monitor

Council approves renaming bathhouse in honor of Joan Means Khabele - Austin Monitor

City Council approved renaming the bathhouse at Barton Springs Pool to honor Joan Means Khabele for her civil rights activism.

The renaming nomination included documents like a video interview where Khabele shared her experiences with segregation and civil rights activism. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

TipSheet: Austin City Council, 4.4.24 - Austin Monitor

Council made an emergency change to meeting notice requirements due to a deadline error.

Notable zoning developments include Bolm East Planning, Old West Austin project, and Women and their Work Gallery historic zoning. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Summit panel looks at possibilities and challenges of I-35 cap-and-stitch program - Austin Monitor

Decisions made now will impact the future of Austin due to I-35 project

Open houses to gather community input on the design of caps over I-35 [ more ]

Austin Monitor

AFD narrows its wildfire preparedness focus on Eastern Crescent - Austin Monitor

Austin leads in Firewise communities in the state

Community wildfire plans in progress, focusing on prevention and response measures [ more ]

SFGATE

Austin House Prices Are Falling But Experts Say They're Just 'Going Back To Normal': These Are The City's More Affordable Neighborhoods

Housing prices in the Austin market are falling as construction slows and fewer new workers move in.

After intense competition, first-time homebuyers were able to find opportunities in the cooling market by sensing a shift and adjusting their strategies. [ more ]

Inside Higher Ed | Higher Education News, Events and Jobs

UT Austin closes former DEI division, lays off employees

UT Austin shutting down Division of Campus and Community Engagement, laying off over 40 employees.

Closure linked to state's anti-diversity, equity, and inclusion bill, SB 17, to avoid legal action or funding loss. [ more ]

www.nytimes.com

U.S. Defense Secretary Denounces Israel's Strike on Aid Workers in Gaza

Secretary Austin expressed outrage at the Israeli strike on a humanitarian food convoy in Gaza

Secretary Austin stressed the need for immediate protection of aid workers and Palestinian civilians [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Austin Community College will offer free tuition to high school grads - Austin Monitor

ACC approved a pilot program for free tuition to local high school graduates.

The initiative aims to break generations of poverty through access to higher education. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Music Commission approves revised 'agent of change' measures to calm noise disputes - Austin Monitor

The city is moving to prevent noise conflicts between residential areas and live music venues by making developers near music venues conduct sound testing for new projects.

The proposed requirements aim to include noise impact information in residential purchase or lease agreements, placing no new burdens on music venues. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

During Social Work Month, county commissioners discuss the field's low average salaries - Austin Monitor

Social Work Month declared in Travis County recognizing vital contributions and challenges faced by social workers.

Commissioners urged to support social workers by addressing underfunding and low compensation. [ more ]

Austin Monitor

Ellis pushes resolution to increase safety, prevent bike lane parking - Austin Monitor

Paige Ellis sponsors resolution for bike lane safety and awareness

Proposal includes banning parking in bike lanes citywide and introducing e-bike fleet [ more ]

Austin Monitor