Word on the streets of Austin is that it’s been a week of reflection and resilience across our city. I’m Morgan Riley, here to guide you through today’s key stories from the heart of Austin’s neighborhoods.
We start with a citywide moment of remembrance. On May 25, the City of Austin officially proclaimed the day as “2015 Austin Flood Remembrance Day.” This commemoration honors the lives lost and the communities forever changed by the devastating floods a decade ago. Many Austinites gathered along waterways and at public events, sharing stories and recommitting to the city’s spirit of preparedness and unity. This annual remembrance draws a line through Austin’s history—reminding us how far we’ve come in adapting to a changing climate and how crucial our ongoing efforts in emergency preparedness are.
On the legislative front, there’s been significant movement at the Capitol. The deadline for the Texas House to pass Senate bills has officially passed, closing a critical chapter in this year’s legislative session. This marks the end of one of the busiest periods for lawmakers, with high-profile bills on issues like education and infrastructure making their way—or not—through the process. These decisions will influence everything from school funding to how we manage growth and traffic, core concerns for Austin’s future.
In a vivid reminder of nature’s power, lightning struck a communications tower in West Austin on live TV just this Monday night. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the rare event brought brief outages and became a sudden highlight on social media, sparking conversations about storm safety. As the start of summer brings unpredictable weather, emergency pop-up events—like the city’s rescheduled preparedness clinic now set for December—aim to keep Austinites ready for whatever may come.
Turning to our people, I caught up with longtime Barton Springs lifeguard Ana Gutierrez, celebrating her fifteenth year keeping the spring safe and welcoming. Ana shared how the Springs have evolved, how she connects with generations of swimmers, and why Austin’s natural spaces need both protection and community care. Her love for Austin’s green oases is infectious—a reminder of the deep ties locals have to the city’s most beloved landmarks.
Looking ahead, expect sun and a few scattered showers through the weekend, a classic Central Texas pattern. This Saturday, Zilker Park hosts its annual Kite Festival, welcoming families, artists, and newcomers alike. Meanwhile, the East Austin Studio Tour continues, offering a window into the city’s booming creative scene.
Before we close, here’s a thought: Austin’s strength is woven from both our shared memories and our new chapters, much like how Barton Springs endures drought and flood. Our city’s story is always unfolding, one neighbor at a time.
This has been Morgan Riley, your neighbor in the news. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an Austin news update. For more stories or to share your own, email me at
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