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Austin City Council Moves to Ban New Vape Shops Near Schools and Daycares
The Austin City Council plans to restrict new vape shops within 1,000 feet of schools and childcare facilities. This initiative aims to reduce youth access to e-cigarettes and mitigate health risks associated with nicotine. A draft ordinance is expected to be presented on September 11, 2025.
Every School on the Table Austin ISD to Decide Closures by Fall 2025
Austin ISD plans to close and consolidate schools due to budget deficits and declining enrollment, with a decision expected by fall 2025. The district faces approximately 25,000 vacant seats and aims to enhance transparency through community feedback. Specific schools for closure could be identified by 2025, with changes implemented as soon as the 2026–27 school year.
Paramount Theatre's summer film series returns
Paramount Theatre's summer film series returns with classic favorites like "Miss Congeniality" and "Clueless." The series is expected to attract movie enthusiasts looking for nostalgic entertainment in Austin.
Bank of America golf program helps Austin kids
Bank of America launched the "Golf with Us" program, making golf accessible to kids in Austin for $5 or less per round. The initiative partners with Youth on Course to provide free lessons and memberships to children ages 6-18, aiming to teach valuable life skills through the sport.
Paramount Theatre's Summer Film Series Returns to Austin
Axios Austin reports on the return of Paramount Theatre's summer film series, which showcases classic movies starting June 1. The series, a staple of Austin's cultural scene, aims to offer residents and visitors a nostalgic cinematic experience.
'Fire weather' is happening more often
Hot, dry, and windy weather linked to climate change is increasing wildfire risks across the U.S., with 'fire weather' days rising significantly since 1973. An analysis by Climate Central found that some areas, like parts of Texas, now experience two additional months of fire weather annually. This shift strains firefighting resources and raises insurance concerns for property owners.
Hot Luck starts Thursday
Austin's Hot Luck festival, featuring acclaimed chefs recognized by the James Beard Foundation, kicks off Thursday. The event includes a street food market on Friday, an outdoor cookout on Saturday, and a Sunday brunch, with individual event tickets costing $195. Proceeds will support the Southern Smoke Foundation, aiding food industry workers in need.
FAA staffing issues lead to Austin airport delays
More than 100 flights were delayed at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport due to Federal Aviation Administration staffing issues. The delays, occurring just before a busy travel weekend, highlight ongoing concerns about aviation safety and the FAA's workforce challenges.
Texas Moves Closer to Banning Social Media for Minors With HB 186
Texas lawmakers advance House Bill 186, which would prohibit minors from accessing social media, having passed the House and awaiting Senate review. The bill includes age verification and allows parents to request account deletions. Proponents argue it addresses mental health concerns linked to social media use among youth.
Very best day in Austin with Michelle Amezquita-Navarro
Travis Heights Elementary in Austin ISD received top marks for academic performance. Principal Michelle Amezquita-Navarro, who has served the school for seven years, emphasizes the diverse community, with over 15 languages spoken and a student body that is 43.7% Hispanic. The school's reading and math proficiency rates stand at 76% and 66%, respectively.
Austin apartments are getting smaller
New apartments in Austin shrank 6% in size from 2015 to 2024, averaging 872 square feet, according to RentCafe. This trend reflects a broader nationwide decrease in apartment sizes among the 100 largest U.S. cities. Developers are increasingly prioritizing smaller floor plans, impacting renters already facing high prices.
Inside Texas' push for religion in public schools
Texas lawmakers are advancing proposals to incorporate religious elements into public education, including posting the Ten Commandments in classrooms and allowing school prayer. Supporters argue these measures reinforce moral values, while opponents emphasize the importance of maintaining the separation of church and state. Governor Greg Abbott recently signed a $1 billion voucher program that could benefit religious schools.
Austin Traffic Volume Up After Return-to-Office OrderBut Speeds Stay the Same
Traffic on Austin’s highways rose by 5% after state employees returned to the office full-time on March 31. Despite the increase in vehicles, average travel speeds on major routes remained stable, with morning speeds rising from 18 to 28 mph.
After Vouchers Win, Bill to Boost Public School Funding Finally Moves Forward
Texas lawmakers will examine House Bill 2, a $7 billion public school funding package, after Governor Greg Abbott signed a law favoring private school vouchers. The bill aims to increase per-student funding, raise teacher salaries, and improve special education, amidst rising concerns about public school resources. Supporters hope it will pass despite skepticism about its effectiveness.
Austin gets leap-frogged by Fort Worth
Fort Worth has overtaken Austin as Texas's fourth-largest city, reflecting Austin's stagnating growth rate of just 0.4% between 2023 and 2024. This slowdown stems from affordability issues and a post-pandemic tech downturn, impacting both retention and attraction of residents.
Axios' Zoom In Series
Axios announces its "Zoom In Series" event, focusing on economic mobility and the cost of living across major U.S. cities. The event will take place on May 14, 2025, from 12:03 PM to 2:02 PM GMT. Local business owners from cities like Austin, Chicago, and San Francisco will discuss challenges and opportunities in their communities.
Texas Legislature targets authority of local governments
The Texas Legislature advances several bills aimed at limiting local government authority, particularly in progressive cities. Republican lawmakers argue these measures restore legal clarity, while city officials oppose them, fearing financial constraints on local services. The legislation could freeze sales tax revenue vital for municipal budgets.
FIFA starts selling World Cup packages
FIFA began selling VIP hospitality packages for the 2026 World Cup, with prices starting at $6,750 per person. Austin will not host any matches, but its soccer fans showed strong interest during the 2022 World Cup. The U.S., Canada, and Mexico will co-host the tournament.
Texas grocer H-E-B gets into the music game
H-E-B launches a monthly concert series called "True Texas Tunes" in collaboration with Austin nonprofit HOME to support aging musicians. The concerts will be free and held at the South Congress H-E-B, starting this Saturday with Marcia Ball's Boogie Trinity. This initiative aims to enhance community engagement and express gratitude to customers during store renovations.
Heat Wave Hits Central Texas Learn the Warning Signs and How to Stay Safe
High temperatures exceeding 100 degrees are forecasted for Central Texas this week, with Wednesday expected to be the hottest day. Residents should recognize heat alerts and take precautions, including staying hydrated and checking on vulnerable individuals.
Austin ISD Addresses Gun Photo and Medical Incident Amidst Series of School Lockdowns
Burnet Middle School initiated three safety holds on May 5 due to a gun-related social media post and a medical emergency. School resource officers confiscated an unloaded firearm from a student, while a medical incident required EMS intervention. All events concluded without harm to students or staff.
Texas Attorney General Investigates Austin ISD for 'Woke Indoctrination'
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has sued the Austin Independent School District, claiming it violated state law by using materials linked to Critical Race Theory (CRT) and the banned 1619 Project. The investigation aims to uncover a potential systemic policy promoting such curriculum despite legal prohibitions.
Tensions Rise in Wealthy Texas Neighborhood Over Musks Security Setup
Elon Musk faces backlash from residents in West Lake Hills, Texas, over his $6 million home's security measures, including a 16-foot chain-link fence and armed guards. Critics argue these installations resemble a military compound and violate local construction permit regulations.
List of Central Texas School Districts Releasing Early Friday Due to Severe Weather
Severe thunderstorms, including tornado risks and 70 mph wind gusts, prompt early school releases in Central Texas. Local districts, including Austin ISD and Round Rock ISD, cancel after-school activities and adjust release times for student safety. Residents are advised to stay alert as conditions develop.