Here is what is happening in Lakeway….
Classical Chamber Music
On Sunday, May 19, 4-5:30PM at Lakeway Activity Center, enjoy a FREE concert. Musicians include: Violin, Sari Pearce; Cello, Andrew Pearce; and Piano, Rick Rowley. More info here: https://lakeway-tx.gov/1862/Sunday-Afternoon-Concert-Series
Lake Travis Democrats Club
–May 19: Picnic in the Park, 2-4PM at City Park’s Upper Pavilion (502 Hurst Creek Road). This annual event features picnic food, beer and wine, speakers, guests including elected officials, raffle drawings, and musical entertainment.
–May 28: Banned Book Club, 6:30PM at Lake Travis Community Library. The book is SOLD by Patricia McCormick, which was one of the top 10 banned books in 2023.
–June 6: The Voucher Scam Live, 6:30PM at the Lakeway Activity Center. This interactive, one-hour presentation covers a critical issue facing public education today–education vouchers.
Check https://www.laketravisdemocrats.com/ for details and activities each month.
Street Sign SURVEY—ENDS May 31.
City of Lakeway will be revamping our street signs. So, residents have the opportunity to take a quick look at new street sign design options and pick their favorite. Responses will help give guidance to city staff. The survey ENDS Friday, May 31. If you have questions, email info@lakeway-tx.gov The 1-question survey is here: https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/civicalerts.aspx?AID=1893
Primary Runoff Election
Yes—time to vote AGAIN…. The good news is it is a VERY, VERY, VERY short ballot.
Early Voting—May 20-24, 7AM-7PM (until 10PM at Lakeway Activity Center on May 24 ONLY).
Election Day—Tuesday, May 28, 7AM-7PM.
Closest location is Lakeway Activity Center, but you can vote at any polling place in Travis County.
Go here to find out what—if anything–is on your ballot, by party: https://www.vote411.org/
REPUBLICANS living in Lakeway can go here to confirm my understanding that the only Republican party race in Travis County is in Congressional District 35—on the OTHER side of Austin: https://traviscountygop.org/vote
But, DEMOCRATS living in Lakeway have ONE race to vote on in the Runoff. Go here to confirm my understanding that the ONLY Democratic race in Travis County is for Justice, Third Court of Appeals Place 2: https://www.traviscountydemocrats.org/may28runoff
Just like last time…. Bring photo ID, preferably Texas drivers license, for fastest processing. Don’t plan to rely on your cell phone while voting; electronics are banned in the polling place per state law. If you requested a mail-in ballot but prefer to vote in person, BRING THE MAIL-IN BALLOT WITH YOU so it can be cancelled.
City Hall Art Gallery
Artist Carol Williard van Ginkel opened her art display at City Hall (1102 Lohmans Crossing) on May 1. She is an expert at needle painting, creating detailed art with needle and thread. Stop by anytime during business hours the collection. MEET THE ARTIST and enjoy refreshments on Monday, May 20, 5:30-7PM at City Hall. Local artists interested in being featured at City Hall for a 3-month stint can go here to apply: https://lakeway-tx.gov/2040/City-Hall-Art-Gallery
Learn to Be Water Wise: LMUD Open House, May 20-24.
LMUD, one of several Municipal Utility Districts serving Lakeway, is hosting an Open House at 1097 Lohmans Crossing, on May 20-24. At 10AM and 2PM daily, experts will deliver presentations on water-related topics (tree care, native plants, rainwater capture, available rebates, and more). No reservations are required, but arrive early as there is limited capacity. Plus—refreshments, literature and goodies to take home, including water-saving information and fun/helpful household tools. Go here for more info and the schedule of presentation topics: https://lakewaymud.org/update/learn-to-be-water-wise-lmud-open-house-may-2023/
Community Dialogue: Defining Vision and Goals for the Lakeway Comprehensive Plan Update
Stop by City Hall (1102 Lohmans Crossing Rd.) on May 21, 6PM, for an introductory meeting regarding Lakeway’s Comprehensive Plan. The City of Lakeway is holding its first Community Dialogue: Defining Vision and Goals. A presentation will be followed by an interactive open house. Review project boards, provide input, and pose questions to staff and the consultant team. Go here for full info: https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/1547/Comprehensive-Plan
Aloha Pool Party
On May 25, 1-3PM, join the start of summer fun at Lakeway Swim Center (3103 Lakeway Blvd.). Games, hula dancing, concession food and more! Drop-in rates apply; free admission with Summer membership pass. Go here for more info: https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/1835/Aloha-Pool-Party
Memorial Day Ceremony
On Monday, May 27, at 11AM, join Lakeway residents and officials at Emmaus Catholic Church (1718 Lohmans Crossing) for the annual ceremony honoring military personnel who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. More details available soon, check here for info: https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/2141/Memorial-Day
Mermaid Day
On Sunday, June 2 at 1-3PM, all Mermaids and their friends will gather at Lakeway Swim Center to pal around with “real” mermaids from Lake Travis. Come dressed to impress the Mer set, as there will be photos, games, prizes, surprises and lots of swimming. Drop in pool rates apply (but the activities are free). More info here: https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/1834/Mermaid-Day
Pirate Day
On Sunday, June 9, 1PM, pirates of all ages are invited to stop by Lakeway Swim Center for giveaways, face painting, and a treasure hunt. Dress for the part, as Jack Sparrow will be there! Daily Swim Center fees apply. More info here: https://lakeway-tx.gov/2005/Pirate-Day
Anything Goes at TexArts
June 7-30, TexArts presents Anything Goes. Go here for info and to buy tickets: https://www.tex-arts.org/
Kid Camps this Summer—at Lakeway Activity Center.
Sign up NOW, as camps fill up fast. Go Here and click on the Youth Camps tab: www.lakeway-tx.gov/catalog
July 4 Parade—REGISTER now to participate or volunteer.
Register to participate in this year’s parade, held on Thursday, July 4. The theme is Symbols of Freedom. Go here for info and to register your float/performance OR to help as a volunteer: https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/718/July-4th-Celebration
Spirit of Freedom Monument
Lakeway Veterans who served in official periods of armed conflict like the Vietnam War or Gulf War can have their names included on the Spirit of Freedom Monument located in Lakeway Heritage Park. Applications are now being accepted for additions to the monument for recognition on Veterans Day in 2024. Deadline to apply is July 5, 2024. The fee ranges from $325-$425. Call 512-314-7530 or go here for info and a link to the application: https://lakeway-tx.gov/97/Heritage-Center-Park
Artist Registration now OPEN for Cool Arts
This year’s Cool Arts Show and Studio Tour is on Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 24-25, at Lakeway Activity Center and local studios. Go here for info and to register: https://lakeway-tx.gov/1858/Cool-Arts-Show-Studio-Tour
House Watch
If you are traveling over the summer or only occupy your home here part-time, Lakeway Police Department provides a House Watch program, at no charge. Just let them know, and officers will perform close patrols of the address and contact you if anything appears suspicious. Call 512-261-2800 for info and go here to sign up: https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/1305/House-Watch-Request
Mayor Kilgore’s Facebook Update
The mayor gave a short live update on May 16. Go here to watch: https://www.facebook.com/cityoflakeway/videos/1577423569499442
Council meets on May 20, 6:30PM.
WARNING: This Agenda has 34 Items. I’m not saying that is a record high, but it is definitely formidable. Hope everyone on the dais eats their Wheaties….
Consequential Agenda items include:
ITEM 3: Recognition and Honors.
ITEM 4: Oaths of Office, per election results.
ITEM 5: Appointment of Mayor Pro Tem.
ITEM 8: Citizens Participation for the above Items, Item 19 (Financial Report), and the Consent Agenda.
ITEMS 9-18: Consent Agenda, including new appointments to Zoning and Planning Commission and the PUD Review Committee.
ITEM 19: Financial Report.
ITEM 20: Citizens Participation for items NOT on this Agenda.
ITEM 21: Resolution creating the Lakeway Teen Court Program.
ITEM 22: WCID #17 Water Conservation Update.
ITEM 23: Amending the Cherry Knoll/Hillsong PUD as to 25.949 acres at 15616 Flint Rock Road (authorizing a fire station instead of commercial and parkland).
ITEM 24: Update on Employee Health Benefits.
ITEM 25: Request for $50,000 in Hotel Occupancy Tax Funds, from Lake Travis Youth Association.
ITEM 26: City Center Update from developers Legend Communities and Stratus.
ITEM 27: Ordinance meant to be a first step in reducing collisions on 620 near the hospital and the high school, by authorizing TXDOT to extend the School Zone from just south of Medical Parkway to north of the intersection.
ITEM 28: Discuss Traffic Signal at RM 620 and Pallazza Alto Drive/Flamingo Drive.
ITEM 29: Discuss Alkali-Silica Reactivity (ASR) in Lakeway pools.
ITEM 30: Discuss Traffic Mitigation and Possible Annexation of Flint Rock Road (67% of which is now outside of Lakeway and managed by Travis County).
ITEMS 31-33: Executive Sessions on 3 items—personnel matters/Zoning and Planning Commission appointments, employee health benefits, and transfer of real property/Sailfish Park.
View the Agenda, Meeting Packet, and/or Presentation (scrolling down to City Council documents) here: https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/archive.aspx Go here to watch the Council meeting online (live or later): https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/1062/Videos—Meetings-Events
Daring Mighty Things
Last weekend, our sun went wild. The resulting geomagnetic storm caused unprecedented auroras worldwide. The above image is Aurora Australis, in Christchurch on May 11. (Image credit: Sanka Vidanagama/AFP via Getty Images.)
Check these links for some gorgeous images:
—Jaw-dropping northern lights from massive solar flares amaze skywatchers around the world. ‘We have a very rare event on our hands.’ 5/11/24 https://www.space.com/spectacular-northern-lights-rare-solar-flares-may-2024
—Wondering what the Northern Lights looked like in Texas? See photos shared on social media 5/13/24 https://www.statesman.com/story/entertainment/2024/05/13/northern-lights-texas-aurora-borealis-photos-social-media/73668190007/?utm_source=naas-newsletter_dailybriefing&utm_content=daily%20briefing%20-%20austin%20tx&utm_campaign=newsletter_dailybriefing&utm_medium=email&utm_term=adhoc
Wanna relive the eclipse? APOD has a stunning 1-minute video, fast-forwarding through the event. Hit the link below, then click on Discover the Cosmos at top left and scroll down to May 6’s A Total Solar Eclipse from Sliver to Ring https://apod.nasa.gov/apod/astropix.html
On May 6, Boeing’s Starliner had to abort its very first crewed launch for the International Space Station due to a buzzing noise that turned out to be a helium leak. Currently, the launch is scheduled for May 21. The above image shows the craft being rolled off the launch pad for repairs. (Image credit: NASA via X.) Helium leak delays Boeing’s 1st Starliner astronaut launch to May 21 5/14/24 https://www.space.com/boeing-starliner-cft-launch-delay-helium-leak
With liberty and justice for all … except women.
This is one of those “only in Texas” things, in the worst way. A Texas attorney and anti-abortion crusader, Jonathan Mitchell, has for years filed countless legal petitions and lawsuits against abortion providers, researchers and funds, seeking information about who may want or need an abortion. Now, he is taking the women themselves to court, for LEAVING THE STATE to receive medical care, along with anyone who helped them do so. Mitchell currently represents 2 Texas men, who allege their girlfriends went out of state to receive abortions, without their consent. His strategy is using fear and intimidation to make women think they don’t dare try to leave Texas, despite the fact that interstate commerce—including individual travel—has always been a legal mainstay in America. As noted in the article: “It’s not about a lawsuit, it’s about using fear to induce compliance.” Anti-abortion crusader’s deposition requests generate fear, but no findings 5/10/24 https://www.texastribune.org/2024/05/10/texas-courts-abortion-jonathan-mitchell/
Speaking of travel bans in Texas, the Amarillo City Council is being forced to consider a policy that outlaws using local streets to access an abortion in other states. This is because supporters of the travel ban gathered enough signatures to advance the issue. Their petition will be formally presented to Council on May 28. Council can consider it then, and must do so within 30 days. As of now, many ultra conservative towns and counties along the Texas border have enacted laws purporting to ban use of local roads to access abortion care in another state. These include the cities of Athens, Abilene, Plainview, San Angelo, Odessa, Muenster and Little River-Academy, as well as Mitchell, Goliad, Lubbock, Dawson, Cochran and Jack counties. NOTE: NONE of these laws has been tested in court; legal experts contend they are just political bravado. On the other hand, city leaders in Clarendon refused to pass a “sanctuary city for the unborn” ordinance. Llano and Chandler have deferred decisions on such a travel ban. Amarillo City Council must vote on abortion travel ban following successful voter petition 5/16/24 https://www.texastribune.org/2024/05/16/amarillo-texas-abortion-travel-ban-vote/
Still waiting on the US Supreme Court to rule on 2 important abortion cases—the use and availability of abortion pills and emergency abortion care for at-risk women. A recent article, by longtime SCOTUS expert Adam Liptak, shows the public opinion stats on the MANY pending high court rulings that will be issued any day now. These include deciding presidential immunity, 2 crucial abortion cases, gun rights, and many other hot-button issues. Remember—the Judicial branch has ZERO enforcement power. If the Executive branch is ticked off at you, it can fine you and put you in jail. The Legislative branch can take away funding and pass new laws to make its point. But, the courts can only deliver opinions, relying on the people’s respect for rule of law, so that we follow their decisions. A lot of Americans are now gleefully acting like rule of law is out-dated. Another subset of Americans is appalled at how out of touch the far-right SCOTUS is now and increasingly resistant to accepting its fiats. And, then there are the unprecedented ethical scandals that have recently tainted several conservative Justices and brought their morality and impartiality into serious question. (The latest revelation on that front was last week’s bombshell that Justice Samuel Alito flew the American flag upside down in his Virginia yard during Jan. of 2021, when doing so symbolized support for Trump’s “Stop the Steal” campaign. The above image of the incident is courtesy of NY Times.) So, how far will SCOTUS go on this crucial batch of cases, and will the American public follow? The Major Supreme Court Cases of 2024 5/16/24 https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/05/09/us/supreme-court-major-cases-2024.html
Back to me….
PLEASE be careful with pets and the heat, especially in cars. Remember—they depend on you.
My Citizens Police Academy classes ended last week with a fun graduation ceremony. There should be another session in spring of 2025, and I recommend it for any resident interested in what our police force can and cannot do, if you can devote 3 months of Tuesday evenings to it. One plus is joining the Alumni Association, which functions as a dedicated volunteer group helping out at city activities.
I got a Covid vax booster last week. Being in that (super fun!) “65 and older” group as well as doing a lot of public-facing stuff these days, it seemed smart to reinforce protection, since my last booster was 8 months back. The only issue was a mildly sore forearm for 24 hours.
Also, I got my spring cleaning done, so I can work the polls again next week. Yes–ANOTHER election is upon us, with Early Voting for the Primary Runoff on May 20-24. Election Day is May 28 (see election info above). See you at the polls!
IT IS FAWN SEASON! Please DRIVE CAREFULLY, as newborn fawns are incredibly tiny, fragile, and clueless about roads.
I saw a new fawn twice last week, on Kite. The first morning I saw the baby, he was just hours old, still hunched over and figuring out how to get all those legs walking in the same direction. He settled briefly on a lawn before skittering over to a shrub bed and curling up against the house. I was happy to see Mama Doe next door, munching and keeping an eye on her little one. A couple mornings later, I saw that same doe in that same yard. She walked up to that same shrub bed and grunted; that same baby bounced out and started suckling. After a minute, Mama headed over to some trees, and in there she let the baby drink his fill, then cleaned him up. In just 48 hours, the wee fawn was much stronger and very sure on his legs. Soon, the pair headed off to find the next parking spot where the fawn could rest while Mama foraged. (Yes, photos are below.)
Remember—the vast majority of fawns you see are FINE, just parked in a safe spot and waiting for Mama to return to feed/clean/move her baby to another safe parking spot.
If the fawn’s ears are curled or its bottom is dirty, Mom has been gone too long, and it needs help. Our closest expert is Leanne Dupay, permitted wildlife rehabilitator with Texas Parks & Wildlife 512-694-1811. (She lives in The Hills.)
Lots more info (and really cute photos) are on the Fawn page of my blog. It also has several local contacts if you find a fawn (or other wildlife) truly in distress. https://ninawriteorwronginlakeway.com/parked-fawns-injured-deer/
City of Lakeway has good deer coverage on its site. (I helped set that up a few years back, so it borrows some text and photos from my Fawn page.) https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/1728/Lakeways-White-Tail-Deer-Herd
Deer aside, the city’s general wildlife page has helpful info on many of the other critters living with us in Lakeway. https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/1918/Lakeway-Wildlife
Here are some of my deer photos from the past couple weeks, starting out with the sweet fawn and his mama doe on Kite. And, by the way, there are still a LOT of big-bellied does out there, so more new fawns will be coming our way soon.
Coronavirus Update
As of May 11, the CDC’s Data Tracker shows 3 of the Covid-19 indicators (test positivity, ER visits, and deaths) flat or slightly dropping, after trending down over the last couple months. The 4th indicator is hospitalizations; for that, reporting rules have changed, but data as of April 27 showed a mild uptick. https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#datatracker-home
Experts say a new variant called KP.2 is now causing over 25% of new Covid infections in America. KP.2 is one of the variants known as “FLiRT,” which may be more infectious and better at evading our immune defenses. Currently, cases are not rising, but a summer surge is possible. There’s a New Covid Variant. What Will That Mean for Spring and Summer? 5/10/24 https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/10/well/covid-flirt-variants-symptoms.html
The latest round of Covid cases are showing these symptoms: fever or chills; cough; sore throat; congestion or runny nose; headache; muscle aches; difficulty breathing; fatigue; new loss of taste or smell; “brain fog” (feeling less wakeful and aware); and gastrointestinal symptoms (upset stomach, mild diarrhea, vomiting). New COVID variant FLiRT has emerged. Here are the symptoms to watch for 5/9/24 https://www.statesman.com/story/news/state/2024/05/09/new-covid-variant-flirt-symptoms-texas/73625240007/
REMINDER— Over 95% of adults hospitalized in 2023-2024 due to COVID-19 had not gotten the latest vaccine. So, if you never got the updated Covid booster, get it now. Those age 65 and older should get ANOTHER dose of the updated vaccination this spring (if 4 or more months have gone by). Shots are available at local pharmacies. If you catch Covid, consider taking Paxlovid. It prevents severe illness and death in people at high risk; studies show it is effective in nearly 75% of cases. And “high risk” covers most American adults, including those with depression, obesity, asthma or a history of smoking. Anyone age 50 or older should take Paxlovid, regardless of health status. Lots more good info in this article: I Have Covid. Should I Take Paxlovid? 1/11/24 https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/11/well/covid-paxlovid-treatment.html