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Governor Greg Abbott rejected $60 million in federal funding for the summer EBT program, which would have provided assistance to 3.7 million low-income Texas children. The Central Texas Food Bank criticized the decision, warning it will increase demand for its services despite not facing a direct funding loss.
Techno band Future Blondes will perform at Chess Club on June 30, accompanied by openers Biproduct and Husks of the Dead. The event starts at 9 PM, with tickets priced at $12. This concert is part of a series of activities happening in Austin from June 30 to July 3.
Women's prescriptions for GLP-1 drugs in Texas surged from 0.6% in 2020 to 4.34% in 2024, outpacing men's use, which rose from 0.66% to 3.39%. This trend underscores a growing focus on weight loss among women, particularly those approaching menopause.
Maggie Rivas-Rodriguez, a University of Texas at Austin professor, received the Texas 10 honor for her impactful teaching. After 27 years at her alma mater, she emphasizes the importance of storytelling in journalism and the inclusion of Latino voices through her Voces Oral History Center project.
Floodwaters are receding in Austin following intense storms, but significant damage remains, particularly at Marcusen Park Baseball Stadium. Local homeowner Amy Koppelman faces ongoing flooding issues in her basement, exacerbated by recent storms, leading to costly repairs and the need for community support.
The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center will present its Awards of Excellence this weekend, honoring local leaders in Latino cultural arts. This year's recipients include Claudia Chapa of the Austin Opera and Walter Guzmán of Guzmán Ballet Folklórico. The event will be livestreamed for public viewing.
Central Texas residents face hazy skies and rising temperatures as a Saharan dust plume approaches this weekend. Dust levels are expected to climb to “high” by Monday, coinciding with a temperature rise to 98 degrees. Residents with respiratory issues are advised to limit outdoor activities during peak dust days.
U.S. Rep. Greg Casar, chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, is advocating for progressive policies as Democrats search for a path forward. His recent comments at a union hall in East Austin highlight the need for accountability in political decisions affecting wages and working conditions. Despite his visibility, he faces challenges in a GOP-controlled Washington.
Central Texas faces severe drought conditions, with nearly all of Travis County classified as experiencing severe drought, while some areas suffer from exceptional drought. Lakes Buchanan and Travis, key water sources, remain at only 52% capacity, highlighting the ongoing water crisis. Climatologists warn that this pattern of prolonged dry spells interspersed with heavy rainfall may become the new normal due to climate change.
Construction began this week on Iris Gardens, a new affordable senior living complex in southeast Austin. The 150-unit facility aims to provide housing for older adults on fixed incomes, with apartments available for households earning 30% to 60% of the area median income. Completion is expected in late spring 2027.