Austin news

• 'We are struggling': Georgetown FD announces celebration of life for firefighter who died in crash

  15-04-2025 04:13 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) -- The Georgetown community is grieving the loss of a city firefighter who died in a motorcycle crash last week.On Monday, the Georgetown Fire Department identified the firefighter as Kurt Lentz.Off-duty Georgetown firefighter killed in motorcycle crashThe agency announced on social media that a celebration of life is happening at 10 a.m. Friday at Celebration Church, located at 601 Westinghouse Road in Georgetown."As a close-knit fire family, we are struggling through this loss. D
  
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• Epic Texas rally not enough to stop Sooners softball sweep

  28-04-2025 00:13 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — Despite rallying from an 8-0 deficit to tie the game, No. 3 Texas couldn't finish the job, falling 9-8 to No. 4 Oklahoma in Southeastern Conference softball action Sunday at Love's Field in Norman, Oklahoma.The Sooners swept the Longhorns at home for the fifth consecutive time with the victory. Oklahoma scored the go-ahead run on an Isabela Emerling sacrifice fly in the sixth inning.MORE THAN THE SCORE: Stay up to date on sports stories like these, and sign up for our More
  
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• Tommy's Travel Forecast: Multiday outbreak of severe weather

  27-04-2025 22:48 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) -- A severe weather outbreak is brewing in the Upper Midwest, set to impact millions in the coming few days. There is the potential for intense tornadoes, straight-line damaging winds, and large hail.On Monday, a level 4/5 moderate risk has been issued for portions of Iowa, Minneapolis, and Wisconsin. Major cities such as Minneapolis are in the 'bullseye' for severe weather.A positive-tilted, upper-level trough is the textbook setup for widespread severe weather in the Plains and M
  
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• Texas seeded No. 7 in first NCAA beach volleyball tournament appearance

  27-04-2025 22:43 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — In its first year of eligibility, the Texas beach volleyball team is headed to the national tournament.The Longhorns are seeded No. 7 and will take on No. 10 California in the first round of the NCAA tournament at 1 p.m., May 2 at Gulf Place in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Texas and Cal split their matches this season. The Longhorns earned a 3-2 victory at the East Meets West Invitational in Manhattan Beach, California, on March 15, and then a week later, the Golden Bears claimed
  
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• '10 a.m. is the new 10 p.m. right now'—Locals switch cocktails for coffee and early morning wellness parties

  27-04-2025 21:50 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — Many Austinites are ditching midnight bottle service for a new social scene happening before breakfast. Swapping cocktails for cold brews and hangovers for hydration, locals are feeling their best selves while having fun at "wellness parties".Early morning coffee accompanied by a live DJ set and a variety of wellness activities is quickly emerging as the city's newest and most popular trend.
  Where it all beganCoffee & Chill, started in Austin by co-founders Hallie Melan
  
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• Cinco de Mayo celebrations in Central Texas

  27-04-2025 18:41 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Cinco de Mayo is just around the corner. Here is a curated list of local bars and restaurants hosting celebrations.Azul RooftopAzul Rooftop is hosting an all-day rooftop party to celebrate Cinco de Mayo early on May 3 from 3 p.m. to 12 a.m. The all-day fiesta features live DJ sets, half-off specialty margaritas, agave flights, pool access, and private cabana or table rentals. Tickets are available for purchase here. RELATED: History of Cinco de Mayo and Tejanos role in the battl
  
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• Volunteers sweep Lady Bird Lake for trash during annual cleanup

  27-04-2025 18:30 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — Stormy clouds lurked over Lady Bird Lake Friday morning, laden with the potential to prematurely end a planned cleanup of Lady Bird Lake in Austin.
  But the rain held off. Rowing Dock President Kate Aoueille said that the cleanup, with 40 partner organizations and hundreds of volunteers, couldn't be easily rescheduled."We are expecting a larger turnout from last year, and we're seeing a ton of people with a ton of trash coming back. So things are looking good," Aoueille said
  
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• Travelers expected to experience delays at AUS Sunday morning

  27-04-2025 15:05 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Austin Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) said travelers should expect delays Sunday morning.AUS posted on social media Saturday that it expected "a fairly busy Sunday" for travelers, as the GT World Challenge racing event at the Circuit of the Americas ends Sunday."Be sure to give yourself 'plenty of time' for baggage check and TSA screening," AUS said.As of early Sunday morning, AUS was not experiencing any atypical delays, according to the US Federal Aviation Administratio
  
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• Boat fire sends 3 people to hospital with critical injuries

  27-04-2025 14:51 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — Firefighters put out a boat fire that started Saturday night, according to a early Sunday social media post by Austin-Travis County EMS.The fire occurred near the 5900 block of Hi Line Road, near the Colorado River and Lake Travis.Firefighters with Lake Travis Fire Rescue responded to the marina around 10:55 p.m. According to LFTR, two boats were on fire when they arrived.ATCEMS took two people from the scene to Dell Seton Medical Center; STAR Flight airlifted one other per
  
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• Republican-led states keep adding school voucher programs even as critics worry about cost

  27-04-2025 06:08 via kxan.com
  
  (AP) — State lawmakers across the U.S. are pushing to use more taxpayer dollars to pay for private school tuitions and homeschooling expenses even as they try to figure out how to budget in a time of economic uncertainty.A $1 billion-per-year voucher program the Texas Legislature sent to the governor last week and a longshot push in Congress to expand vouchers nationally, including to states that have rejected them, are focusing attention on the issue.In states that already have programs t
  
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• Large crowds gather for 17th annual Sunset Valley ARTFEST

  27-04-2025 05:32 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) –- Large crowds gathered at Burger Stadium in Sunset Valley on Saturday for the 17th annual Sunset Valley ARTFEST.More than 100 artisans showcased their work which included handmade art, sculptures, pottery, jewelry and much more.The one-day free event attracts about 8,000 people throughout the day, offering live music, food trucks and many activities.The event is hosted by the City of Sunset Valley.Austin legend Dale Watson was one of the headliners for the free concert that
  
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• Understanding the science and power of a supercell

  27-04-2025 05:04 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Supercells are the powerhouse of thunderstorms, they are capable of producing large hail, damaging winds, and long track tornadoes. What makes a supercell so special?
  BLOG: The best way to receive severe weather alertsA supercell is a thunderstorm with a rotating updraft, which is classified as a mesocyclone. The rotating updraft is what sets a supercell apart from a typical thunderstorm. In order for a supercell to develop, you need several ingredients such as moisture, instabi
  
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• Longhorns fans enjoyed autographs, access even without spring football game

  27-04-2025 03:28 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — It wasn't how spring practices for the Texas Longhorns traditionally end, but fans still appreciated it.Rather than an Orange-White scrimmage to culminate the spring football practice period, the program put on a day full of special events with a gameday-like experience for fans Saturday at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium.Here’s the actual reason why the Texas Longhorns aren’t having a spring gameWhile some fans KXAN spoke with were a little disappointed they couldn'
  
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• Another one: Texas tops Texas A&M by 1 run again to win Lone Star Showdown series

  27-04-2025 02:27 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — History repeated itself Saturday at UFCU Disch-Falk Field.Texas closer Dylan Volantis struck out Texas A&M's Terrence Kiel II looking for the final out in the second consecutive game, resulting in another one-run victory for the Longhorns, 3-2 over the Aggies to claim the Lone Star Showdown series in Southeastern Conference play. FRIDAY: Top-ranked Texas claims Lone Star Showdown series opener over Texas A&M 2-1After throwing 40 pitches to get five outs Friday, Vola
  
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• State of Texas: Senate sends education savings account bill to Governor Abbott

  27-04-2025 01:00 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (Nexstar) - Legislation to let Texas parents to use public dollars to help pay for private education has been sent to Gov. Greg Abbott. The Texas Senate voted 19-12 Thursday to agree to changes made by the Texas House on Senate Bill 2. The vote sends the bill to create a $1 billion education savings account program to the governor's desk to be signed into law.State Sen. Brandon Creighton, R-Conroe, authored SB 2, after carrying similar legislation that failed to pass in previous sessions.
  
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• Hugh Forrest no longer leading SXSW

  27-04-2025 00:43 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (ABJ) -- Hugh Forrest, the president of South by Southwest — one of Austin's most consequential events — is no longer running the organization."Leaving South by Southwest was definitely not my decision," he said. "I put my heart and soul into this event for more than 35 years, and I was looking forward to leading several more editions. To this end, I will be rooting big time for the Austin team on the go forward. The city, the country, the world needs the positive energy South
  
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• Texas Longhorns set draft pick record, Quinn Ewers goes to Dolphins in last round

  27-04-2025 00:36 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — Texas broke a program record for the most selections in the current draft format, and their quarterback was the player to push the Longhorns over the top.Quinn Ewers was the program's 12th pick of the 2025 NFL draft Sunday, going to the Miami Dolphins in the seventh round (No. 231 overall), topping last year's 11 picks to set a new bar since the seven-round format began in 1994.Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers (3) celebrates with his team after defeating Arkansas 20-10 in an N
  
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• Kyle police host drug takeback event to prevent misuse

  27-04-2025 00:14 via kxan.com
  
  HAYS COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) — The Kyle Police Department hosted a safe medication disposal site at their police station Saturday afternoon.The event partnered with St. David's HealthCare aimed to help prevent the misuse of prescription medications on National Drug Take Back Day. Jeff Barnett, the Chief of the Kyle Police Department, said holding this event helps reduce the chances of such drugs negatively impacting somebody or the environment."We really think that if medication is left in a
  
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• 'It means so much,' Sen. Creighton reflects on impact of passing education savings account bill

  26-04-2025 20:08 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (Nexstar) - Gov. Greg Abbott will soon sign legislation to allow Texas parents to use public dollars to help pay for private education. On Thursday, the Texas Senate voted to send a $1 billion education savings account program to the governor to be signed into law."There being 19 ayes and 12 nays, school choice has come to Texas!" Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said as he brought the gavel down on the vote to approve Senate Bill 2. Senators concurred with changes made by the Texas House, speeding t
  
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• Austin Police investigating homicide after disturbance near encampment

  26-04-2025 14:28 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — Austin Police are investigating a homicide after a Friday night disturbance in the 500 block of East Rundberg Lane, according to an APD public information officer Saturday morning.The officer told KXAN that APD officers first arrived at the scene around 11:30 p.m.
  Those officers found a Black woman with "obvious signs of trauma." Responders attempted life-saving medical care and transported the victim to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead.(KXAN Photos/Kevin My
  
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• What to know about the funeral and burial of Pope Francis

  26-04-2025 13:23 via kxan.com
  
  NEW YORK (AP) — Pope Francis died on Easter Monday at the age of 88. His death set off mourning across the Catholic world and days of ritual at the Vatican. Here are the key things to know about the funeral of the first Latin American pontiff in the church's history:
  When and where was his funeral held?
  His funeral was held Saturday morning in St. Peter’s Square. His coffin was then taken by motorcade across downtown Rome to the spot where he wished to be laid to rest in a simple und
  
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• Quiet finish to weekend, storms return midweek

  26-04-2025 11:00 via kxan.com
  
  Editor’s Note: The video above shows the latest forecast from the KXAN First Warning Weather team.AUSTIN (KXAN) -- A couple relatively quiet days before our storm chances ramp back up halfway through the work week.Today will feature a sky of mixed sun and clouds with warm and humid conditions. Afternoon highs will warm well into the 80s today - another warmer-than-normal April day.Warm, humid and dry on SundayWe're expected to stay dry again Monday before rain chances return Tues
  
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• Pop up shower possible, but mostly dry and humid

  26-04-2025 11:00 via kxan.com
  
  Editor’s Note: The video above shows the latest forecast from the KXAN First Warning Weather team.AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Our rain chances will largely get put on pause this weekend before storm activity picks back up middle of next week.Our Saturday starts with a lot of cloud cover but will feature a mix of sun and clouds by midday. Afternoon highs will warm well into the 80s with high humidity and gusty winds at times (winds: S/SE 5-10 mph, gusting to 20 mph).Saturday afternoon foreca
  
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• Pop up shower possible, but most dry and humid

  26-04-2025 11:00 via kxan.com
  
  Editor’s Note: The video above shows the latest forecast from the KXAN First Warning Weather team.AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Our rain chances will largely get put on pause this weekend before storm activity picks back up middle of next week.Rain chances will remain around 10% today with a mix of clouds and sunshine. Winds will blow out of the southeast at 5-15 mph, occasionally gusting up to 20 mph.Saturday afternoon forecast high temperaturesA brief thunderstorm or two could roll through
  
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• Hot and humid Sunday, storms return mid-week

  26-04-2025 11:00 via kxan.com
  
  Editor’s Note: The video above shows the latest forecast from the KXAN First Warning Weather team.AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Saturday was warm and humid, with mostly cloudy skies and a few showers from time to time. Camp Mabry reached 87° and Austin Bergstrom topped out at 85°.
  Tonight, scattered showers will quickly dissipate with partial clearing. A rare thunderstorm is possible in the Hill Country from the dry line. Temperatures will slowly drop to the upper 60s and low 70s. Win
  
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• Hot and humid Monday, severe storms possible midweek

  26-04-2025 11:00 via kxan.com
  
  Editor’s Note: The video above shows the latest forecast from the KXAN First Warning Weather team.AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Sunday was mostly cloudy with high temperatures in the 80s. Camp Mabry and Austin Bergstrom reached 84°.
  Tonight, temperatures will slowly drop to the upper 60s and low 70s with overcast skies. A rare shower or thunderstorm is possible in the Hill Country from the dry line.
  Monday will start cloudy, with decreasing clouds by the late afternoon into the evening. H
  
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• Rally falls short for No. 3 Texas in 7-6 loss to No. 4 Oklahoma

  26-04-2025 07:21 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — No. 3 Texas tried to climb out of an early hole but fell short against No. 3 Oklahoma 7-6 Friday in Southeastern Conference softball action at Love's Field in Norman, Oklahoma.The Sooners jumped out to a 6-0 lead after three innings, largely thanks to a grand slam by Ailana Agbayani, but the Longhorns chipped away and cut the lead to 7-5 by the end of the fifth inning. BASEBALL: Top-ranked Texas claims Lone Star Showdown series opener over Texas A&M 2-1Texas loaded the
  
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• Top-ranked Texas claims Lone Star Showdown series opener over Texas A&M 2-1

  26-04-2025 06:54 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — No. 1 Texas held off Texas A&M to claim the opening game of the first Lone Star Showdown series in the Southeastern Conference 2-1 on Friday at UFCU Disch-Falk Field.Dylan Volantis picked up his 10th save, getting five outs, including a strikeout of Aggies slugger Jace LaViolette in the eighth inning with a runner in scoring position. The go-ahead run reached base in the ninth, but Volantis struck out Terrence Kiel II to end the game and seal the victory. All of the out
  
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• Texas Longhorns defense shines on 2nd day of 2025 NFL draft

  26-04-2025 05:33 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — Three more Longhorns are set for an NFL future following the second and third rounds of the 2025 NFL draft Friday in Green Bay, Wisconsin.Defensive linemen Alfred Collins and Vernon Broughton, along with defensive back Andrew Mukuba, had their names called, bringing the total to six Texas players selected over the first two days. The draft's third and final day includes the remaining rounds, 4-7, and will start at 11 a.m. Saturday.Texas defensive lineman Alfred Collins (95)
  
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• Family recalls experience with mortuary owner accused of corpse ‘experiments’

  26-04-2025 05:33 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) -- A grieving family is grappling with the unimaginable after the owner of a funeral home they trusted with their loved ones' remains was accused of corpse abuse.Lorena Villarreal and her family miss her mother endlessly. Their loss is still fresh.Last month, Villarreal said they had services at Eternal Peace Funeral and Cremation Services in north Austin.
  Lorena Villarreal's said they feel betrayed after hearing this news. (Photo: KXAN)Lorena Villarreal's said they feel betrayed a
  
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