Mixer: Save Texas Schools
On Monday, February 11th Liveable City presents Allen Weeks, Chair of Save Texas Schools, for a brief overview of the biggest threats facing public education in the current legislative session. Join us at New World Deli, 4001 Guadalupe, from 5:30-7:30pm and enjoy a freewheeling discussion and learn more about the history-making Save Texas Schools March & Rally planned for Saturday, February 23rd. For details, see www.savetxschools.org.
Liveable City Economic Incentive Study and recommendations
Liveable City recommends critical improvements to the City of Austin’s current economic incentive policy and process. Read full memorandum here.
Liveable City 10th Anniversary Party
To become a sponsor or purchase tickets to our 10th Anniversary Party, please select from the following:
Individual Tickets
Admission for one.
Liveable City Friend
Admission for two.
One year membership.
Liveable City Sustainer
Event and e-newsletter recognition
Admission for two
Two (2) one-year memberships
Liveable City Leader
Event, website, and e-newsletter recognition
Admission for four
Two (2) one-year memberships
Liveable City Business Partner
Invitation and event program recognition
Event, website, and e-newsletter recognition
Admission for six
Four (4) one-year memberships
Women’s Health Crisis in Texas
Are you a woman (or someone who cares about women)? Have you read the latest Texas Monthly? Liveable City invites you to a discussion of the impact on Austin women and our local governments of the state’s disregard for women’s health (slashing of the Women’s Health Program, failure to create a health care reform exchange, and refusal to expand Medicaid).
There’s No Place Like Home
Join us at this Liveable City mixer to discuss Austin’s affordable housing crisis. The lack of affordable housing has become a critical problem for thousands of Austinites young and old. Join housing leaders to learn about and discuss the developing community strategy embedded in the November Housing Bonds, the Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan, and other public and non-profit actions.
Celebrate Liveable City’s First 10 years!
Making Austin Liveable – An Invitation to Liveable City’s Anniversary Party
Monday Mixer – Watershed Protection, COA
Join Liveable City to learn about Austin’s new proposed Watershed Protection Ordinance, currently in the drafting stages and slated to come to the City Council in Spring 2013.
Matt Hollon, Environmental Conservation Manager, will discuss how the proposed ordinance aims to improve creek and floodplain protection, prevent unsustainable public expense related to drainage systems, simplify development regulations where possible and allow appropriate development on nearby land. Bring your questions and get in on this important conversation while you can still make a difference!
NewWorld Deli offers a full bar and delicious light fare and is conveniently located on Cap Metro’s 1L/1M bus line. For bike routes, see ridethecity.com. For further information, more project details, and past presentation materials please see the city of Austin site for the Watershed Protetction Department.
Imagine Austin Community Forum
Two years ago, as Austin first embarked on its comprehensive planning process, Liveable City hosted Comp Plan 101, an educational forum for community leaders. Now, with that process nearing a close and a draft plan in hand, Liveable City once again provides the opportunity for community discussion and review.
The Imagine Austin Community Forum will focus on major plan components, recent revisions, keys to implementation, and any critical remaining issues to ensure the best possible comprehensive plan for our city. The evening features a panel discussion, with opportunity for significant audience participation, plus complimentary appetizers and a cash bar to enhance the lively discourse.
Once adopted by City Council, the Imagine Austin plan will set the direction for future development of our city – so it’s crucial that we get it right. Liveable City believes a successful plan will provide a blueprint for “Complete Communities,” neighborhoods where Austin residents can find schools, doctors, groceries, parks, and other necessities of daily life all within walking distance, a transit stop, or short drive from their homes. A strong comprehensive plan will be a vital tool in creating neighborhoods that are livable and affordable for all of Austin.
Liveable City Holiday Bash!!!
You’re invited to Liveable City’s annual Holiday Bash, Monday, December 5th, 5:30pm-7:30pm, at Malaga Tapas & Bar , relocated to the lively Second Street area just a few years ago – 440 West 2nd Street.
Catch up with old friends and meet new ones, sample luscious complimentary appetizers, or enjoy a nice glass of wine at the cash bar. Come enjoy this Spanish European haven tucked into one of the most popular and historical blocks of Austin, right down the street from City Hall.
The annual Holiday Bash is also a great time to join or renew your Liveable City membership, though we recommend taking care of this online before the party (gets you to the food and drink faster!).
Wanna Get Away? Come prepared to buy a raffle ticket for a free ride on Southwest Airlines. For those of you in the know, that’s 25,000 points ($625 value) which will take you and a friend to many exotic places in the US. It’s your choice where you go – Southwest points are like money in the bank! Raffle tickets available at the door only, one for $10 and three for $20. The Southwest Airlines raffle is limited to LC members.
Liveable City’s ready to celebrate. See you at Malaga on December 5th!
Mixer: Ride the Train from Black Star
Plug into the action with Liveable City’s “Monday Mixers” (back by popular demand!) featuring some of Austin’s best networking with experienced community leaders and professionals across many fields of interest that make a city liveable.
On Monday, October 24th, we’ll meet at the Black Star Coop Pub & Brewery, located at Crestview Station. After a brief presentation on Transit Oriented Developments – and a brew if you choose – we’ll all ride the Red Line to the MLK/Chestnut Commons’ stop. There, we’ll take short walking tour of the area’s “nonprofit village,” including current residents PeopleFund and Foundation Communities, as well as future building sites for Theatre Action Project and the Sustainable Food Center. Then it’s back on the train for a return ride to Crestview and Black Star. The rest of the evening’s up to you!
For nearly a decade, Liveable City has worked to advance issues that matter to Austin: affordable housing, strong public schools, improved transportation, a cleaner environment, a sustainable local economy and more.
Now you can learn about the crucial work ahead – and how you can help build a city with equity and opportunity for all. The future begins with a conversation – join Liveable City for our next Mixer on October 24th!
Highland Mall Redevelopment Mixer
Please save the date: September 26th at 5:30 to 7:00 pm for Liveable City’s Monday Night Mixer (venue to be determined), when Matt Whelan of RedLeaf Properties and Jim Adams and Jana McCann of McCann Adams Studio will discuss the public-private partnership emerging for the re-development and re-purposing of the 80-acre Highland Mall property.
As the sale of the last tract of the 80-acre property to ACC was finalized in August, the focus is now shifting to the master planning of this strategic infill property along the Airport Boulevard corridor. RedLeaf Properties will be responsible for orchestrating the development of potential private uses around the re-purposed educational facilities within the former anchor stores of Highland Mall. Come and share your thoughts about the future of this strategic Central Austin property.
Announcing our 2011 Vision Award Winners!
Buy Tickets ($30) and Sponsor LC Vision Awards!
Liveable City is honored to announce the winners of our 8th Annual Liveable Vision Awards, a yearly celebration recognizing the people, organizations, and efforts that make a positive difference in our community.
The Vision Awards recognize notable community-led initiatives, private sector accomplishments, and advocacy efforts that exemplify the “Five E’s of Sustainability.” Each “E” represents a crucial element of a livable community and each winner represents a significant contribution in that area. The 2011 Liveable Vision Award winners are:
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Economy: Austin Small Business Development Program www.ci.austin.tx.us/sbdp/default.htm
Engagement: Save Texas Schools www.savetxschools.org
Environment: Save our Spring Alliance www.sosalliance.org
Equity: The Equal Justice Center www.equaljusticecenter.org
Esthetics: Deep Eddy Mural Project www.deepeddymural.org
Please Join us Wednesday, September 21, at the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center, from 6pm to 8pm. The evening will feature a reception with delicious appetizers by Emily’s Catering, complimentary beverages, and – as always – the best conversation in town, as community leaders and fresh faces gather to recognize the 2011 recipients of these prestigious awards. Sarah Eckhardt, Travis Co. Commissioner, will provide her trademark wit as emcee.
Your generous sponsorship of the Vision Awards will support Liveable City’s independent policy research and issue-based advocacy on critical issues like affordable housing, health care, and education – and you’ll help celebrate some true local heroes in the bargain. Your support as a sponsor will mean a great deal to Liveable City, our honored Vision Award winners, and their many friends in the community. You can donate HERE or contact Heidi Gibbons, Membership/Outreach Coordinator by phone at 663-8865.
2011 Vision Awards Sponsorship and Tickets
Liveable City Visionary – $5,000
Invitation, Press, and event program recognition. Event, website, and e-newsletter recognition. Admission for ten, six one-year memberships/
Liveable City Leader – $2,500
Invitation, press release, and event program recognition. Event, website, and e-newsletter recognition. Admission for eight, four one-year memberships.
Liveable City Partner – $1,000
Invitation and event program recognition. Event, website, and e-newsletter recognition. Admission for six, four one-year memberships.
Liveable City Supporter – $500
Event, website, and e-newsletter recognition. Admission for four, two one-year memberships.
Liveable City Advocate – $250
Event and e-newsletter recognition. Admission for two, two one-year memberships.
Liveable City Friend – $100
Admission for two, one one-year membership.
Individual Tickets – $30
Admission for one.
Liveable City would like to thank the following sponsors:
Partner ($1,000)
The Austin Chronicle (in-kind)
Ann Kitchen & Mark Yznaga
KUT 90.5
Perry Lorenz
Susan Moffet & Nick Barbaro
SXSW Eco Conference
Southwest Strategies
Bruce Willenzik & Annie Harding
Supporter ($500)
Austin Community College District
Catellus Development Group
Liz Mueller & Michael Oden
Steven & Joan Clark
Texas Disposal Systems
Advocate ($250)
Capital Metro
Downtown Austin Alliance
Brian Donovan
Espey Consultants
Kevin & Adriane Foster
Go Local Austin
LES
McCann Adams Studio
Jill McRae
Momark Development
Leslie Pool & Will Grover
Robin Rather
Tom “Smitty” Smith & Karen Hadden
Friend ($100)
Book People
Suzee Brooks
Andy Brown
David Butts
Joaquin Castro, State Rep
Danette Chimente
Matt Curtis
DMA Companies
Ann Denkler
Libby & Lloyd Doggett, U.S. Representative
Catharine H. Echols
Sarah Eckhardt, Travis Co. Commissioner
Bruce Elfant, Travis Co. Constable
Greg Esparza
Friends of Deep Eddy
Shudde Fath
Frances Ferguson
Heidi Gibbons
Ann S. Graham
Sherri Greenberg & Cary Ferchill
Bryan H. Hale
Derek & Donna Howard, State Rep.
Leonard & Karen Huber, Travis Co. Commissioner
Dick Kallerman
Russell Korman Fine Jewelry & Watches
Emma L. Linn
Louis Malfaro
Laura Morrison, Austin City Council Member
Mary Ann Neely & Craig Smith
Elliott Naishtat, State Rep.
Eddie Rodriguez, State Rep.
Regina Rogoff
Theresa Ruffing & John Blinn
SOS Alliance
Ted Siff & Jannell Buchanan
Niyanta & Bill Spelman, Austin City Council Member
Vickie Tatum
Kay & Del Taebel
TexHealth Central Texas
Kathryne B. Tovo, Austin City Council Member
Elliot J. Trester & Barbara J. Wilson
Heather Way
Jim Walker
Wheatsville Co-Op
Whole Foods Market
Thank you all for you generous support!
Annual Liveable City Vision Awards
Buy Tickets ($30)
Sponsor LC Vision Awards
Please join us in recognizing Austin’s favorite hometown heroes at the Mexican American Cultural Center on September 21, 2011 from 6 to 8 pm for this year’s Liveable City Vision Awards.
Each of these individuals has been nominated and selected by you for their contributions to the community in one of the Five E’s of Sustainability – Economy, Engagement, Environment, Equity and Esthetics.
We look forward to celebrating their commitment to the long-term social, environmental, creative, and economic well being of the people of Austin. See you there!
Monday Mixers in May!
Plug Into Liveable City: Monday Mixers in May!
Do you care about keeping Austin livable for everyone? Now more than ever, we must take
an active role in shaping our city – and our future!
Plug into the action with Liveable City’s “Monday Mixers in May” featuring some of Austin’s
best networking with the Liveable City Board and members who are among Austin’s most
experienced community leaders and professionals across many fields of interest that make
a city liveable.
For nearly a decade, Liveable City has worked to advance issues that matter to Austin:
affordable housing, strong public schools, improved transportation, a cleaner environment,
a sustainable local economy and more.
Now you can learn about the crucial work ahead – and how you can help build a city with
equity and opportunity for all.
The future begins with a conversation. Join Liveable City on a Monday in May to start
turning talk into action!
Questions? Call Ann Kitchen 512.228.1645 or email annkitchen@austin.rr.com. To update
your membership or join Liveable City go to www.liveablecity.org.
Monday, May 2nd
Clive Bar, 609 Davis Street
5:30pm-7pm
Join Jim Adams AIA, LEED AP, McCann Adams Studios, and Liveable City Board members
at the Clive Bar in the heart of the new Rainey Street district. Near the Waller Creek
Development Project and part of the Downtown Austin Plan, this historic area is
experiencing an organic revolution with a mix of new high rises, residences, bars and
restaurants in historic old homes. Jim is overseeing development of the Downtown Austin
Plan and will update us on how this historic district fits into an overall vision for Austin
shared by Liveable City, creating liveable, walkable communities.
Monday, May 9th
Little City Expresso Bar & Café
916 Congress Avenue
5:30pm-7pm
Join Donna Taylor (Little City owner), Rebecca Melancon (Executive Director, AIBA)
and Liveable City Board members to say a reluctant farewell and thank you to Little
City. Rebecca will provide an update on the city’s comprehensive planning process from
the AIBA perspective and how the plan ties to the IBIZ districts and the larger role of
independent businesses in our city.
Little City is closing their doors on May 13th, after 18 years on Congress Avenue (a private
entity has purchased their building and will not be renewing their lease). Little City’s
Donna Taylor pioneered the sidewalk cafe concept in Austin, working with the city
council to change ordinances to allow tables and chairs to be placed on the sidewalks
along Congress Avenue. At the time they moved into a space left vacant by a victim of the
savings and loan crisis, there was a 40% occupancy rate along Congress Avenue. Little
City’s Donna Taylor – “We have enjoyed supporting and being a part of the local business
movement and the Austin community through providing jobs and opportunities to the
highly educated and motivated Austin workforce that is truly an Austin phenomenon”.
Monday, May 16th
Home of Kevin and Adriane Foster
2025 Emma Long Blvd.
5:30pm-7pm
Join LC Board Member Kevin Foster – anthropologist, recent National Science Foundation
Policy Fellow, and assistant professor in UT’s Department of African and African Diaspora
Studies – and his wife Adriane at their home in the new urbanist Mueller neighborhood
for a free-wheeling conversation about the future of public education in Austin.
Complimentary drinks and appetizers.
Monday, May 23rd
TBA
Save the Date & Call for Nominees!
2011 Liveable Vision Awards
Got a favorite hometown hero? Now’s your chance to let everyone know!
Liveable City invites its members to nominate outstanding local groups, businesses, or individuals for a 2011 Liveable City Vision Award.
Nominees should have contributed significantly to the community in one of the Five E’s of Sustainability – Economy, Engagement, Environment, Equity and Esthetics. The winners will be announced in March and honored at the annual Vision Awards party in September 2011, date TBD.
To make a nomination, please use the form below. Remember, you must be a current member of Liveable City to submit a nomination. Join or renew your membership.
Too often, those who do so much for our community go unrecognized. Please help us give them the honor they deserve by sending in a nomination by July 1st, 2011. Winners will be announced later this summer.
Then get ready to celebrate in September at the 2011 Liveable Vision Awards. See you there!
Thanks for a Great Party!
Thanks for a Great Party:
Liveable Holiday Bash @ Black Star!
The Liveable City Holiday Bash at Black Star Co-op Brew Pub kicked off the holiday season with warmth, wit and high good spirits. New and old friends caught up over Black Star’s frosty brews and luscious, locally-sourced appetizers – but as always in a Liveable crowd, talk was the star attraction. One guest summed up: “ It was a blast! We left hoarse and jazzed over the many fabulous conversations we had!”
As 2010 draws to a close, Liveable City wishes you a wonderful holiday season and a more Liveable New Year. Let’s continue moving the conversation forward on all the issues that matter to Austin in 2011!
And Special Thanks to….
Liveable City would like to thank Black Star Co-op and the following businesses, whose generous donations to our Holiday Silent Auction helped make Austin more liveable:
Armadillo Christmas Bazaar
Austin Duck Adventures
Ballet Austin
Blanton Museum of Art
BookPeople
Cosette Originals
Glazers Distributors
Eddie V’s Edgewater Grill
Esther’s Follies
Hand Feats by Roberts
Iron Works
Jeffrey’s Restaurant
Russell Korman Fine Jewelry & Watches
Little City
McReynolds Wines
Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill
Opal Divine’s Austin Grill
Ruby’s BBQ
Siena Ristorante
South Austin Fastframe & the Prickly Pear Galleries
Southwest Strategies
Stubbs Legendary Kitchen
Texas Rowing Center
Uchi and Uchiko
Z Tejas Grill
From all your friends at Liveable City…
Best Wishes for a More Liveable 2011 for All!
Join or Renew for 2011!
Liveable City Kicks Off Fall Membership Drive
Do you care about keeping Austin liveable for everyone? Now more than ever, we must take an active role in shaping and preserving the city that our children and grandchildren will inherit – a sustainable city with equity and opportunity for every member of our community.
Liveable City works to address Austin’s long-term social, environmental, and economic needs while educating and empowering residents to improve the quality of life for all. Dedicated to civic engagement, Liveable City examines public policy, develops best practices and provides strategy support to community building groups.
Liveable City’s project priorities include affordable housing, education, open government, independent local businesses, transportation, renewable energy, health care, and city and regional planning. Throughout the year, we work to ensure equitable opportunities for everyone across our diverse and growing community.
You can play an active role in this effort by member of Liveable City at a level that is meaningful for you.