Eddie Webster+FollowAustin neighbors bring warmth to ChristmasNearly 100 of our unhoused neighbors in Austin shared a hot Christmas meal and a sense of belonging this year, thanks to the We Can Now community group. Their annual celebration isn’t just about food—it’s about dignity, hope, and making sure no one feels invisible during the holidays. With thousands of pounds of food and gallons of water served each year, and dozens helped into housing, their work shows the power of community. How can we keep this spirit of inclusion and support going year-round? #Safety #Austin #CommunityMatters00Share
Julie Padilla+FollowAustin $700K home up for grabs—for $10!A $700,000 home in East Austin could actually be yours for just $10. This isn’t a scam—it’s a raffle, and the best part is that a chunk of every ticket goes to the Central Texas Food Bank. The house is cozy (900 sq ft, 2 beds, 2.5 baths, and a garage), but the impact is huge: if enough tickets sell, someone walks away with the keys. If not, the winner still gets half the pot. Would you take a $10 chance for a shot at a new home and helping neighbors in need? #News #Austin #HomeRaffle00Share
Jessica Hodge+FollowAustin’s rare salamanders make a comebackBarton Springs in downtown Austin is buzzing with good news: the endangered Barton Springs salamander is thriving again, thanks to a creative habitat restoration project. After years of planning, the city used rocks cleared from a flood to rebuild the salamander’s home, and the population jumped from 1,200 to over 2,000. It’s a reminder that even small, local efforts can have a huge impact on unique wildlife. Do you think cities should invest more in protecting the creatures that call them home? Let’s hear your thoughts! #Science #Austin #Wildlife00Share
Vincent Perry+FollowBlue Origin eyes Austin for rocket campusBlue Origin is considering a massive $1 billion investment in the Austin suburbs, with plans for a new rocket manufacturing campus and logistics hub that could bring around 2,200 jobs to the area. Several local cities are already competing to host the project, which would cover about 100 acres near I-35. This move could transform Central Texas into a key player in the space industry, building on the region’s growing aerospace reputation. What do you think—would you welcome a rocket factory in your neighborhood? How might this reshape the local economy and community? #Business #Industry #Austin00Share
Joe Gallagher+FollowAustin driver’s wild I-35 merge stuns localsAn Austin commuter pulled off a jaw-dropping—and seriously risky—move on I-35, merging under a massive concrete beam hauled by a diesel truck. Dashcam footage shows the car squeezing into the far right lane, right beneath the truck’s load. Sure, nobody got hurt, but it’s hard not to think about how badly this could’ve ended for everyone nearby. It’s a reminder that a split-second decision can put lives at risk. Have you ever witnessed (or experienced) something this reckless on Austin roads? Let’s talk about what we can do to keep our commutes safer. #Transportation #Austin #I3500Share
Charles Richardson+FollowAustin teen erases $4.75M in medical debtA high school senior in Austin has already wiped out $4.75 million in medical debt for nearly 4,000 local families—before even graduating. Eli Cooper Yorio started his “26 for 26” campaign after realizing how much medical bills keep neighbors from affording basic needs like food. By teaming up with a nonprofit that buys and forgives debt, every dollar he raised erased $100 in bills. He’s now pushing to hit $5 million and hopes to inspire others to take action. How do you think communities can rally together to tackle big issues like this? #Education #Austin #MedicalDebt00Share
hnguyen+FollowAustin teen wipes out millions in medical debtA high school senior in Austin has already erased $4.75 million in medical debt for nearly 4,000 local families—all before graduation. Eli Cooper Yorio started his “26 for 26” campaign after learning how medical bills keep families from affording basic needs like food. By teaming up with a nonprofit that buys up medical debt for pennies on the dollar, every $1 he raised cleared $100 in debt. Now, he’s aiming for $5 million and pushing for statewide support. How do you think young people can drive real change in our community? #Education #Austin #MedicalDebt00Share
Amanda Carroll+FollowSouth Congress shops say goodbye—what’s next?Three beloved South Congress shops—Limbo Jewelry, Triple Z Threadz, and Dope Daughters—are closing their doors at the end of December, making way for a big corporate tenant. For many Austinites, this feels like another piece of local flavor getting squeezed out by rising rents and big business. The good news? These brands aren’t disappearing—they’re moving online and looking for new spaces. If you want to support them, December’s your chance to snag deals at their farewell sales. How do you feel about the changing face of South Congress? Are you still finding ways to shop local? #Business #LocalBusiness #Austin00Share
Charles Richardson+FollowAustin massage school shut down over license scamState regulators just closed Austin Massage Academy after uncovering a scheme where staff allegedly helped students cheat their way into the massage industry. Not only did the school get shut down, but two instructors lost their licenses and are banned from practicing in Texas while the investigation continues. This means anyone who trained or got services there could face delays or issues with their credentials. The state is urging students to keep all their records and check their license status. What does this mean for trust in local wellness businesses? #Education #Austin #MassageSchool00Share
Gary Dunlap+FollowAustin’s Barbie Santa brings joy to local kidsBarbie Santa is back at it in Austin, delivering boxes of diverse, custom-outfitted Barbie dolls to kids who could use a little extra magic this season. These dolls aren’t just toys—they’re a reminder that someone in the community cares. For families facing tough times, from recent arrivals overcoming tragedy to those struggling with medical bills or housing, these gifts mean the world. It’s amazing to see how one person’s tradition can brighten so many lives. What are some ways you’ve seen neighbors step up for each other lately? Let’s celebrate the kindness that makes Austin special! #Safety #Austin #SeasonForCaring00Share