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Community Corner

🌱 Winter Weather No-Nos + Sesame Street Tix + COVID Clinics Closing

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, everyone! Shiver me timbers, it's cold outside! I'm back in your inbox bright and early this morning to walk you through everything you need to know that's happening in town.

Today we'll cover:

  • TxDOT is expanding pedestrian safety measures for I-35.
  • You've got your winter prep checklist, but are you clear on what NOT to do ahead of the arctic blast? We've got the scoop.
  • Sesame Street is in town this evening — and tickets are still available!
  • Austin's Watershed Protection Department wants to hear from YOU.

But first, today's weather:

Windy in the afternoon. High: 65 Low: 17.

Here are the top stories today in Austin:

1) Planning to bring your generator inside ahead of today's arctic blast? Don't do it! As we all prep our pets, pipes and plants for the incoming wintry mix, KVUE has a list of 5 things NOT to include on your to-do list. Check it out!

2) Travis County's mobile COVID-19 vaccine clinics are closing after Dec. 31, 2022! Head to Travis County's website to see the clinic schedule through the end of the year. Also, if you're in need of a vaccine or booster after Dec. 31, head to http://vaccines.gov or http://vacunas.gov to find a location near you.

3) The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is adding 21 miles of pedestrian barriers along Interstate 35 through Travis County. KVUE reports: "After installing the initial pedestrian barrier in 2020, the Austin District saw an 89% reduction in pedestrian fatalities within the project limits," said TxDOT Austin District Engineer Tucker Ferguson." This initiative couldn't have come at a better time, as data from the Austin Transportation Department shows that pedestrian deaths made up over 40% of recent traffic fatalities – up 10% from 2021. Learn more about this announcement here at KVUE.

4) Community input wanted: Austin's Watershed Protection Department is looking for feedback to shape its "Rain to River Plan," a strategic roadmap that will guide the department's decision-making on urgent issues such as protecting our local waterways, climate change, population growth and racial inequities. This community-informed plan will update and replace the current Watershed Protection Strategic Plan. Head to the department's website to learn how you can participate in the community vision survey.

Today in Austin:

  • 2022 Blue Genie Art Bazaar at Blue Genie Art Bazaar. (10 a.m.)
  • Armadillo Christmas Bazaar at Palmer Events Center. (11 a.m.)
  • Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic at H-E-B Center at Cedar Park. (1 p.m. + 5 p.m.)
  • Sew Much Fun: Reindeer and Snowman at Austin Public Library, Ruiz Branch. (1:30 p.m.)
  • Maker Movies Double Feature: Home Alone and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York at Austin Public Library, Spicewood Springs Branch. (2 p.m.)
  • Ice Rodeo at The Four Seasons Austin. (4 p.m.)
  • Peppermint Parkway at Circuit of the Americas. (6 p.m.)
  • Christmas for Grown Ups at The Pitch. (6 p.m.)
  • 2023 Austin Trail of Lights at Zilker Park. (7 p.m.)

Community Chatter:

  • 🚌 Holiday travel tips: "Flying from Austin to Houston or Dallas is now slower than taking a bus if you follow airport guidance and arrive 2.5 hours before departure. KUT has compiled six ways to get to Houston or Dallas faster than flying. (KUT)
  • 🐓 The roosters were rescued! We previously reported that 30 roosters were rescued from a local cockfighting ring and needed adoption. According to Austin Pets Alive, all 30 roosters are officially rehomed! (KUT)
  • ⚽ Austin FC's 22-23 schedule is here: Austin's favorite soccer club released its full, 34-match schedule for the 2023 MLS regular season. "This year's games will also be streamed on Apple TV." (KVUE)

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You're all caught up for today! I'll see you around.

— 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

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