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Community Corner

🌱 APD Releases Footage + Best Fall Foliage View + UT Safety Concerns

The quickest way to get caught up on the most important things happening today in Austin.

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Jessica Collins, Neighbor
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(Patch Media)

Good morning, neighbors, and Happy Friday! We survived another week (hopefully with our sanity intact). It's Jessica, your host of the Austin Daily — here to break down the most important local news.

Buckle up while we dive into:

  • Body believed to be Justin Haden's was found in Williamson County.
  • University of Texas students concerned about safety on campus.
  • Tickets are still available at Peppermint Parkway this evening!
  • We've also got the scoop on the best spot in town to view the fall foliage.

But first, today's weather:

Low clouds may break; warmer. High: 71 Low: 58.

Here are the top stories in Austin today:

1) The Austin Police Department and the Williamson County Sheriff's Office are investigating a body found near Ronald Reagan Boulevard and I-35 in Williamson County. Police officials believe the body could belong to Justin Haden, the young man who was reported missing in early November. Autopsy results are pending with the Travis County Medical Examiner's Office. KXAN has more on this developing story.

2) The Austin Police department has officially released the body-worn camera footage related to the officer-involved shooting in South Austin on November 15. Community members and the victim's family continue to press APD for answers. KVUE obtained a copy of the video here, but please be warned this content is graphic and viewer discretion is advised.

3) University of Texas students and members of "SafeHorns" expressed concerns over campus safety, and compiled a list of 50 habitual offenders accused of committing crimes in and around the university. FOX 7 Austin reports: "[the list] include those who've been charged with making terroristic threats, aggravated robbery, along with registered sex offenders. UT students said they're the reason for feeling unsafe on their own campus." FOX 7 Austin has more on this story here.

4) As of Dec. 1, Kerry Hall is the interim president and CEO of the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce. Community Impact reports that Hall was a long-term member of the Austin Chamber of Commerce board and has over 35 years in the banking/finance industry. Her leadership skills will be critical in the search for a new permanent CEO. Head over to Community Impact to learn more.

5) The newly elected Austin ISD trustees officially joined AISD's search for a new superintendent. CBS Austin reports that the new members also inherited another large project: overseeing the recently approved multi-billion-dollar bond project. CBS Austin has more on the first board meeting with the newly elected trustees here.

Also, want to make your voice heard? The AISD Board of Trustees is inviting community members and AISD staff to a listening session to offer input on the selection of a new interim superintendent. Details on how to attend here.

Today in Austin:

  • 2022 Blue Genie Art Bazaar at Blue Genie Art Bazaar. (10 a.m.)
  • (Kid-Friendly) Music & Movement at Austin Public Library, Old Quarry Branch. (11 a.m.)
  • Ice Rodeo at The Four Seasons Austin. (4 p.m.)
  • Peppermint Parkway at Circuit of the Americas. (6 p.m.)
  • Elvis Costello + Friends at ACL Live at The Moody Theater. (7 p.m.)
  • Dayglow: People In Motion Tour with Ritt Momney at Stubb's. (7 p.m.)
  • Prof with Mac Turner, Tae Supreme and Willie Wonka at Mohawk. (7:30 p.m.)
  • Open Mic Night (Spoken Word/Talented Singers Welcome) at Come Take It Live. (7:30 p.m.)
  • Silent Party 2000 vs 2020's at Come and Take It Live. (10 p.m.)

Community Chatter:

  • 🎭 Trevor Noah is coming to Austin! Noah is one of 100+ comedians announced for the 2023 Moontower Comedy Festival lineup. (CultureMap Austin)
  • 🍂 "If you love fall colors, then the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail is the place for you!" The gorgeous, autumnal foliage along the lake is quite the sight. Throw on your comfy shoes and check it out for yourself. (Austin Parks & Rec via Facebook)
  • 🕺 Looking to get out and about this weekend? CultureMap Austin compiled a list of the top events happening this weekend! (CultureMap Austin)

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Thanks for following along and staying informed. I'll see you soon!

— Jessica Collins

About me: Jessica is happy to call Austin her home for the past 10+ years. She loves the outdoors, arts & cinema, dining, and all of the natural beauty that Central Texas has to offer.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Austin Daily? Contact me at DowntownAustin@patch.com

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

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