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- Some of the COVID-19 tests the state has been reporting were antibody tests, not viral tests, the Texas Tribune reports.
- Bars can open again today (some already did), at partial capacity—customers are discouraged from dancing, which doesn't make sense to all the people that run them.
- Most boat ramps are also opening, but the usual personal watercraft ban is in place for Memorial Day weekend.
- A map of the Austin roadways that are now closed for the "Healthy Streets" program, courtesy of Community Impact Newspaper.
- One plan under consideration by Austin ISD, according to KXAN: only 25% of students go back to classrooms in the fall.
(Austonia staff)
The University of Texas-Austin continued its march toward a new normal on Friday, as university President Gregory Fenves marked his last day of leadership after five years in office—the final two months of it dominated by sweeping pandemic-era changes on campus.
<p>As he heads to Atlanta to lead Emory University, Fenves passes the torch on Monday to Interim President Jay Hartzell, dean of the McCombs School of Business, who takes the helm just three months before classes start on Aug. 26. </p><p><br/></p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM2MDU3NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwMjgwMjE1OX0.37NWyGwBALb8QfnngsZu7Lob8IBsI3K7753O9Q5aIq8/img.jpg?width=980" id="4db6d" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="1535b7e15a20335e921ec7846d78d076" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />
<small class="image-media media-caption" placeholder="Add Photo Caption...">Greg Fenves</small><small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="Add Photo Credit...">(Marsha Miller/University of Texas)</small>
</p><p><br/></p><p>Hartzell faces a term marked by new protocols aimed at containing the spread of COVID-19 among students, faculty and staff on campus. University officials said that the transition, even in such uncertain times, is expected to be smooth. </p><p>"Even though this is a challenging time for higher education nationally, UT-Austin has prepared well for the transition in leadership to President <em>ad interim</em> Hartzell," Kevin P. Eltife, chairman of the UT System Board of Regents, told Austonia on Thursday, saying he has "full support" of the university leadership.</p><p>Depending on his own plans and how long it takes university officials to name a permanent replacement, Hartzell will almost certainly also be called upon to play the roles of politician and advocate in the Texas Capitol, just two miles away, when UT faces budget cuts during the Legislature next year.</p><p>But officials say Hartzell's immediate mission is to ensure the campus is ready for its approximately 40,000 students to return to a safe, productive learning environment that is as valuable as it was before the pandemic caused so many changes. </p><p><br/></p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM2MDU5Ny9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzODY0ODIzOX0.Z8_UT2gtLOaJwdWh8lA6xElqiHfUJsccKZWAJD6nwpk/img.jpg?width=980" id="e66be" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="847079ed10f8f09dffe8a34488131685" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />
<small class="image-media media-caption" placeholder="Add Photo Caption...">Jay Hartzell</small><small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="Add Photo Credit...">(University of Texas)</small></p><p><br/></p><p>"Our number-one goal at this time is to ensure that UT institutions are prepared to educate students, serve patients and conduct critical research in environments safe for students, faculty and staff," UT System Chancellor James B. Milliken told Austonia on Thursday. "[Hartzell] has very successfully led one of the largest colleges on campus, and for the last couple of months, he has been involved in all major decisions as the institution navigates the challenges of the pandemic and budget reductions. We need this kind of experienced leadership in the months ahead." </p><p>Neither Fenves nor Hartzell were available to comment this week. </p><p>The news that Fenves was leaving came less than two weeks after the university officially closed to contain the spread of coronavirus. It capped a term marked by success in financial aid and graduation rates, and no headline-grabbing scandals or damaging public infighting.</p><p>His announcement was a surprise to many because Fenves' candidacy at Emory, whose president vacated the role late last year, was not made public until both universities made official announcements on April 7. </p><p>Even Hartzell expressed surprise at his new role, joking last month that he was hurrying to organize his office so the new dean of McCombs, Lillian Mills, could easily take over when he moves to the tower leadership offices.</p><p>Fenves wasn't specific about his reasons for the move, but given the nature of the two vastly different jobs, Fenves likely heads to higher pay, better decision-making control, more privacy, less meddling by politicians and an overall less-public role at the prominent private research university in Georgia. </p><p>Former UT Chancellor Mark Yudof describes the post as "a great job," but one that is highly accountable to taxpayers, lawmakers, and the media in several ways—particularly as it comes to campus policies and budgeting. </p><p>Testifying before the state Legislature and fighting for funding, for example, is a vital part of the role—one Yudof relished, as a lawyer who spent his career at public institutions. By contrast, the focus of private school leadership tends to more "inward" on education and internal campus issues, he said. </p><p>"It's very different," said Yudof, who served as president of the University of California after UT. "I've never held a high post in a private school, but I did for a time think about whether I should make the move."</p>
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(Tito's Handmade Vodka)
Sponsored by Tito's Handmade Vodka
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz. Tito's Handmade Vodka
- 4 oz. lemonade
- 3 blueberries, garnish
- 2 strawberries, garnish
- 1 lemon slice, garnish
Directions: Just add Tito's Handmade Vodka, lemonade, and berries to a glass with ice. Stir and garnish with a lemon slice.
(Charlie L. Harper III)
At least two protests are planned in Austin this weekend over the recent killings of black men by police: Mike Ramos, who was fatally shot by an Austin Police Department officer on April 24 in Southeast Austin, and George Floyd, who died in police custody on Monday after a Minneapolis Police Department officer knelt on his neck. Both events were filmed.
<p>Floyd's death—along with those of Breonna Taylor, a 26-year-old EMT in Kentucky who was killed by police in March, and Ahmaud Arbery, a 25-year-old who was pursued and shot by two white men while jogging in <a href="https://www.ajc.com/news/crime--law/hearing-rally-planned-hours-apart-ahmaud-arbery-case/d2FWWT5cQsEWBIcXzGguDL/" target="_blank"><u>his Georgia neighborhood</u></a> in February—has prompted protests <a href="http://live.startribune.com/Event/Aftermath_of_George_Floyds_death_in_Minneapolis" target="_blank"><u>in Minneapolis</u></a> and other cities around the country. Seven people were shot during protests in Louisville <a href="https://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/2020/05/28/breonna-taylor-shooting-protesters-rally-downtown-louisville/5280279002/" target="_blank"><u>last night</u></a>. </p>
<p>The Mike Ramos Brigade <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/s/from-austin-to-minneapolis-jus/383012155988660/" target="_blank">has planned a protest for Saturday afternoon</a> at the APD headquarters downtown. Nearly 2,000 people have expressed interest on the event's Facebook page. The group's members have not identified themselves, but in <a href="https://www.facebook.com/notes/mike-ramos-brigade/mike-ramos-brigades-call-to-action/116850346685290/" target="_blank"><u>a call to action</u></a> posted on social media they listed their demands, including the firing of Chief Brian Manley and the officers who killed Ramos.</p>
<p>"We don't want lip service from politicians who pretend to fight for the interests of black people and give more funding to cops in the same breath," the group wrote in a recent Instagram post. "We want killer cops to be run out, locked up, incapable of ever harming us again."</p><div id="ec337" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="551275447283358c566a574e4b935940"><blockquote class="instagram-media"
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<p>In <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xdkwB9phum6B7chpOCWKAOWesUURMmna/view" target="_blank"><u>a custodial death report</u></a> filed with Attorney General Ken Paxton's office—as required by state law—APD said the officers involved in Ramos' death were responding to a narcotics call, during which Ramos "became non-compliant and verbally confrontational." One officer, "fearing the male subject intended to use [his car] as a deadly weapon," then shot Ramos with his patrol rifle.</p><p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/250734436184449/?active_tab=about" target="_blank"><u>A second protest</u></a>, organized in collaboration with the Austin Justice Coalition and other community groups, is planned for Sunday at the Capitol. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/s/march-against-police-brutality/250734436184449/" target="_blank">Nearly 500 people have indicated they will attend</a>, with another 1,700 interested. "PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE wear your masks if you have them to ensure everyone's safety," AJC Executive Director Chas Moore wrote in a post on the event's Facebook page.</p>
<p>Chris Harris, director of criminal justice programs at Texas Appleseed and a member of the city's public safety commission, called for a reduction in police budgets and authority in a tweet yesterday. "Police & prisons won't stop Amy Coopers or police killings & aren't the answer," he wrote, referring to the white woman who called police on a black man who asked her to leash her dog in a New York City park <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/27/nyregion/amy-cooper-christian-central-park-video.html?smid=tw-share" target="_blank"><u>earlier this week</u></a>.</p><iframe width="100%" height="150" scrolling="no" class="rm-shortcode twitter-embed-1266062909521747972" id="twitter-embed-1266062909521747972" lazy-loadable="true" src="/res/community/twitter_embed/?iframe_id=twitter-embed-1266062909521747972&created_ts=1590687894.0&screen_name=chrisharris101&text=Apparently+I+need+to+spell+this+out.+%0A%0AWe+shouldn%27t+use+the+very+tools+that+consistently+hurt+people+unjustly+to+tr%E2%80%A6+https%3A%2F%2Ft.co%2F3FivPF0zRR&id=1266062909521747972&name=Chris+Harris" frameborder="0" data-rm-shortcode-id="c1d1fa7dc2434b8cb5523e3b7e0388ef"></iframe>
<p>Manley called Floyd's death "heart wrenching" and "senseless" in a tweet on Wednesday. "As law enforcement professionals, we must do better in service to our communities!"</p><iframe width="100%" height="150" scrolling="no" class="rm-shortcode twitter-embed-1265663945538445312" id="twitter-embed-1265663945538445312" lazy-loadable="true" src="/res/community/twitter_embed/?iframe_id=twitter-embed-1265663945538445312&created_ts=1590592774.0&screen_name=Chief_Manley&text=This+is+heart+wrenching+and+we+must+be+better+than+this+or+these+senseless+deaths+will+continue+to+occur.%E2%80%A6+https%3A%2F%2Ft.co%2F5CrFUu6V02&id=1265663945538445312&name=Chief+Brian+Manley" frameborder="0" data-rm-shortcode-id="51bcf0122eb6815e7ba9abaeb2da55b5"></iframe>
<p><br>In November, Austin City Council ordered two investigations into APD after an anonymous complaint alleged racism, sexism and homophobia among the top ranks. The initial investigation, the findings of which <a href="https://austonia.com/austin-police-investigation" target="_self"><u>were released last month</u></a>, did not confirm any specific allegations. But Lisa Tatum, the San Antonio lawyer tasked with the job, wrote in her report that "issues of race lie just below the surface."<br></p>
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Select city services—including some pools, libraries and the Austin Animal Shelter—will reopen starting Monday.
<p><span></span>Directors of the Austin Public Library as well as heads of the parks and recreation, animal services and code departments discussed the phased approach during a virtual press conference earlier today. Plans will be assessed every 28 days and may be subject to change, depending on the course of the pandemic.</p><p>Starting Monday, the parks department will reopen certain facilities that have been closed since the start of the pandemic. Three pools will reopen Monday, with six more to follow, but there is not yet a date to reopen Barton Springs or Deep Eddy. Splash pads will also remain closed. </p><p>Austin Public Library will also reopen its book drops. Returned items will be quarantined for 72 hours, Director Roosevelt Weeks said. On June 15, APL will begin offering curbside service—where residents can pick up books and other items—at select locations, including the Central Library downtown. </p><p>The Austin Animal Center will resume in-person adoptions, within certain guidelines, on Monday. Interested residents will be required to schedule appointments in advance, have their temperature checked upon arrival and wear masks. Two appointments will be allowed per hour. </p><p>The code department is reopening its cashiers office. Two weeks later, its licensing and registration office will follow suit. Interim Assistant Director Daniel Word encouraged residents to continue using the electronic options available on the city's website. </p><p>As the reopening process continues, city officials asked residents to continue wearing masks and practicing social distancing while returning to these venues in an effort to keep city employees and other essential workers safe. "The safety of our employees and the community that we serve are always on our mind," Deputy City Manager Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde said.</p>
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As Texas navigates reopening restaurants and bars safely, al fresco spots provide the perfect place for long-quarantined Austin residents. Some of these favorites are open only on the patio, others are allowing customers to eat to-go orders in the space, and a few are full service—the details are subject to change. This is not an all-inclusive list, but here they are, in no particular order:
1. Perla's
Upscale seafood fare is served under striped umbrellas on the tree-lined porch, with dogs allowed and an unfettered view of South Congress foot traffic.
Address: 1400 S. Congress Ave.
(Charlie L. Harper III)
<p><strong>2.</strong> <strong><a href="https://whislersatx.com/" target="_blank">Whisler's</a></strong></p><p>Serving craft cocktails with names like Riki Tiki Tavi and Lucid Dreams, Whisler's is a favorite on the city's East Side and is currently only open Thursday-Sunday for patio service.</p><p>Address: 1816 E. 6th St. (Photo: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WhislersATX/" target="_blank">Whisler's</a>)</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM2MDc1Ny9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzNTgwMjEwNX0.7OCsAOCHVQ76-Cx57lxPwSL72Op7_8tM35t1KkBO-R0/img.jpg?width=1200&coordinates=0%2C385%2C0%2C282&height=800" id="f8be1" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="43a25aef403118f38429ef8827d43f90" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />(Whisler's)
<p><strong>3. <a href="http://77-degrees.com/austin/" target="_blank">77 Degrees</a></strong></p><p>Exotic cocktails and tasty small plates are only a small part of the draw for this rooftop oasis in the Rock Rose section of the Domain, offering cushy seating, fans with misters and views of the action below.</p><p>Address: 11500 Rock Rose Ave. (Photo: Charlie L. Harper II)</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM1OTgyOC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxOTQ4ODQ0M30.NDP3ArrneW9turCZIrrBpz-xMVCyOGAmZLllQ8TxqL4/img.jpg?width=980" id="feb57" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="d0ab079ae75dfbfe2d3b83f16dcdf80a" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="77 degrees" />(Charlie L. Harper III)
<p><strong>4. <a href="https://ironcactus.com/" target="_blank">Iron Cactus</a></strong></p><p>Serving 100 tequilas in a turn-of-the-century building, this Mexican food restaurant's gorgeous and popular rooftop overlooks on historic Sixth Street.</p><p>Address: 606 Trinity St. (Photo: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/IronCactusFan/photos/a.427537982488/10157929116262489/?type=3&theater" target="_blank">Iron Cactus</a>)</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM2MDgzNS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxNDk2MzAyMX0.h_c-4-EHALrNiuqeF21Aw5fL-ASpP2r_zjDgcLZPbOQ/img.jpg?width=980" id="1d6af" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="448022bbae2d25d83e984cfd10bbdd4d" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />
<p><strong>5. <a href="http://www.opacoffeeandwinebar.com/" target="_blank">Opa!</a></strong></p><p>This charming Greek eatery on South Lamar sports a relaxing front courtyard covered in shade trees and drenched in an Austin-hippie-meets-Mediterranean-village vibe.</p><p>Address: 2050 S. Lamar Blvd. (Photo: Charlie L. Harper II)</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM1OTc3Ny9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzOTk2NDk3NX0.7ypVMiy7hhD5FZhEcXsfDhwALpy80cxIJofmVHs0wcA/img.jpg?width=980" id="70c4c" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="bc39832e59a3c8ad004c22ed2c41cadd" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="Opa!" />(Charlie L. Harper III)
<p><strong>6. <a href="https://www.lichascantina.com/" target="_blank">Licha's Cantina</a></strong></p><p>A converted house with porch and yard on the city's East Side serves interior Mexican cuisine in a setting that kind of resembles a chilled-out house party in Mexico City.</p><p>Address: 1306 E. 6th S. (Photo: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lichascantina/" target="_blank">Licha's Cantina</a>)</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM2MDgzNi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTU5NzAwOTM0MX0.LkxWsu-jyldZemRdLaUZOtwZYh2Gmy8ly2BDrnJfzTE/img.jpg?width=980" id="b7694" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="d020c393d07143786c562a7f695071f4" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />
<p><strong>7. <a href="http://cherrywoodcoffeehouse.com/" target="_blank">Cherrywood Coffeehouse</a></strong></p><p>Beer, wine, coffee and cafe food meet a distinctly local vibe in the laid-back courtyard, a neighborhood favorite just east of I-35.</p><p>Address: 1400 E 38th 1/2 St. (Photo: Charlie L. Harper II)</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM1NDg1MS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwOTY0OTc5MH0.6pL8GAUY9GamRl6i0eUpzAPkuiYGaSSFGjleOVtD0FQ/img.jpg?width=980" id="f0d06" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="72bad09322c1657ce84fc2f153a8911a" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />(Charlie L. Harper III)
<p><strong>8.<a href="https://www.posseeast.com/?fbclid=IwAR3aCODrokJA4JR3gQjw-1tQfpdjvcsp9N6iziz9UGNccP3vO-q-A_MMI10" target="_blank"> Posse East</a></strong></p><p>Drink a beer, grab a burger and watch your favorite sports from a safe distance on the patio in this university-adjacent sports bar, a local favorite for nearly 50 years.</p><p>Address: 2900 Duval St. (Photo: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Posse.East/" target="_blank">Posse East</a>)</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM2MDc2NC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MDU3NjA2Mn0.tskVS1fKKNVD0dMX-uEaWjPypBQqQhHabPSPgMvhmSc/img.png?width=980" id="2f536" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="d6fd42c93f6e7bdda368a744db4d687f" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />(Posse East)
<p><strong>9. <a href="https://www.kebabalicious.com/" target="_blank">Kebabalicious</a></strong></p><p>One of Austin's food-truck-turned-restaurant success stories, this little haven on the East Side serves some of the city's most popular Turkish fast food - wraps and falafel shots and local beer.</p><p>Address: 1311 E. 7th St. (Photo: Charlie L. Harper II)</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM1OTgwNi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MzYyNTgzOH0.RA3F8Ys-rFERX9CBEw9DWDG6_-4oWRIgVTDyf21c9gQ/img.jpg?width=980" id="07340" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="4be3fa8b16b9d1cd0713a61aa3964f0e" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="Kebabalicious" />(Charlie L. Harper III)
<p><strong>10.<a href="http://grajmahalaustin.com/" target="_blank"> G'raj Mahal</a></strong></p><p>Another food-truck success story, this Indian food joint has been a staple on Rainey Street for more than a decade and boasts a patio in the shade surrounded by decorative bicycle wheels and great people watching.</p><p>Address: 73 Rainey St. (Photo: Charlie L. Harper II)</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM1NDg0OS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzMTY2MjA4NX0.ZqxAC76AtCwU2t5pipSdMmJeIzdS0xj2Wo21YVkqAus/img.jpg?width=980" id="bbaac" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="6ebc0307fe17246d5247bb77176cc0d6" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />(Charlie L. Harper III)
<p><strong>11. <a href="http://www.blacksheeplodge.com/" target="_blank">Black Sheep Lodge</a></strong></p><p>Sit on the covered front porch with your buddies and your pups at this South Lamar favorite, with a full bar and menu that includes one of the best Chicago dogs in the city.</p><p>Address: 2108 S. Lamar Blvd. (Photo: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BlackSheepLodge04/photos/a.405805746126230/2096700863703368/?type=3&theater" target="_blank">Black Sheep Lodge</a>)</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM2MDgwNi9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0OTgzNzgzNH0.4AgoSgeGC-y_t0JLxssjpk6PiNZnOxzrzga8HSLKMHI/img.png?width=1200&coordinates=46%2C0%2C117%2C0&height=800" id="b28fd" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="40f64330a4bb346898e9288a925bbbcb" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />
<p><strong>12. <a href="https://gueros.com/" target="_blank">Guero's</a></strong></p><p>This iconic South Congress restaurant and beer garden serves interior Mexican fare and boasts a full bar, house-made tortillas and excellent SoCo vibe. Its small front porch and the Oak Garden next door are both open.</p><p>Address: 1412 S. Congress (Photo: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/gueros/photos/a.381592862287/10158306602187288/?type=3&theater" target="_blank">Guero's</a>)</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM2MDgwOS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0NjQwNjE0Nn0.DFGWISZgRp9qUr8y1uHo6aLvf74urIffKJ4XILv8aKo/img.jpg?width=980" id="a7adb" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a6321c41dc5e4a6aa5c019ab08cfc9f5" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />
<p><strong>13. <a href="https://www.culinarydropout.com/locations/austin-tx/" target="_blank">Culinary Dropout</a></strong></p><p>This hip spot on the edge of the Domain's North Side plaza offers a spacious covered patio lined with white leather benches and tables with plenty of room between them, serving food and drinks in a casual but cosmopolitan setting.</p><p>Address: 11721 Rock Rose Ave. (Photo: Charlie L. Harper III)</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM1OTg4OC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyNDEzNzYyOX0.TpV2RRvjNHMZRJiyWYRGHODq0P6ehYkWfTLGH7Pzr2g/img.jpg?width=980" id="08415" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="dd573d44c4ea902b936760b417693ec1" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />(Charlie L. Harper III)
<p><strong>14. <a href="http://speakeasyaustin.com/" target="_blank">Speakeasy</a></strong></p><p>This iconic three-level club downtown sports many cool indoor spots, but it made this list for its stellar rooftop, with cush seating, shade and views of the skyline.</p><p>Address: 412 Congress Ave. D (Photo: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/speakeasyaustin/photos/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank">Speakeasy</a>)</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM2MDc2OS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwNDM2MzMwNX0.5_6EudtmvmXf7r5fL0d76vx0f2CZNdVDfn2D7DrkPv0/img.jpg?width=980" id="f4fbf" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="6bb6187fc083b8b7ba7643e3c53c1a29" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />(Speakeasy)
<p><strong>15. <a href="https://www.joscoffee.com/" target="_blank">Jo's Coffee</a></strong></p><p>A SoCo staple for decades, the window service and covered patio and sunnier street-side seating give a funky summer-camp-cantina feel to one of the city's trendiest urban neighborhoods. Don't forget the photo op with the iconic "I Love You So Much" message painted in red on its green north-facing wall.</p><p>Address: 1300 S. Congress Ave. (Photo: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/joscoffee/" target="_blank">Jo's Coffee</a>)</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM2MDgxMS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTU5NjgwODU2OX0.86zBOP8zt8YeOyMCW-QUB5X3JcXy8-3sX0tADWqtLgk/img.jpg?width=1200&coordinates=0%2C720%2C0%2C387&height=800" id="56bd9" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="9aa655dafbd71234ac6d154af77fd47e" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />
<p><strong>16. <a href="https://sienaaustin.com/" target="_blank">Siena Ristorante Toscana</a></strong></p><p>If you're dying for a date night and looking for a romantic outdoor space, this dreamy Italian eatery in the hills of Northwest Austin boasts beautiful views and elegant fare on its comfortable patio.</p><p>Address: 6203 N. Capital of Texas Hwy. (Photo: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SienaRistoranteToscana/" target="_blank">Siena Ristorante</a>)</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM2MDc3MS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0OTY5OTkyMn0.voLXObbCRxQx1h-EW-UQqxCWBsLz7-AO0e3dBp41JSc/img.jpg?width=980" id="2b9e2" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="3192f9705271895af7b12e9d9df120e4" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />(Siena Ristorante)
<p><strong>17. <a href="https://www.hulahut.com/" target="_blank">Hula Hut</a></strong></p><p>A longtime Lake Austin favorite just west of downtown, the Hula Hut (and its neighbors along the lakefront) beckons with a decidedly summer vibe; the pina coladas and coconut shrimp are a bonus.</p><p>Address: 3825 Lake Austin Blvd. (Photo: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HulaHut/" target="_blank">Hula Hut</a>)</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzM2MDc3My9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyMjg1MzMyNX0.Swys1_mGOrZn4sJAWqvjID9258J_j0AOsmbnGUmTCfo/img.jpg?width=980" id="fe397" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="d9a099b5e25d7ce4dde9b105950a15d2" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />(Hula Hut)
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(Central Texas Food Bank)
Since the COVID-19 pandemic arrived in Austin, the Central Texas Food Bank has seen a tenfold increase in food costs.
<p>The local nonprofit used to spend about $20,000 a week on food. But most of its inventory came from donations and food recovery partnerships with grocery stores, wholesalers and local farmers. Now it's spending $200,000 a week because of increased need from the public and fewer recovery opportunities, as places like HEB and Sam's Club try to keep their own shelves stocked. </p><p>The food bank serves 21 counties and distributed 52 million pounds of food in 2019. It has responded to natural disasters and fed government employees during previous shutdowns. "This has dwarfed anything else we've seen," Chief Development Officer Mark Jackson said.</p><p><br/></p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMzMyODYxNC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxMTc3ODAyNX0.XGfJ9eSDDae8MhsArnqmfSKbjGDEa0yXaFU2tJDHjwU/img.jpg?width=980" id="33793" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a21cb08d96202b16199f22d0d80f8e61" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="Add Photo Credit...">(Central Texas Food Bank)</small></p><p><br/></p><p>In addition to increased demand for services driving up operating costs, many local nonprofits are also facing disrupted supply chains, volunteer hiatuses and financial uncertainty. Their most acute need is emergency funding, according to <a href="https://missioncapital.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/2020-4-8-CTX-COVID19-Pulse-Survey.pdf" target="_blank"><u>a recent survey</u></a> conducted by Mission Capital. Nearly half of the 458 responding organizations reported increased demand for their services. At the same time, 80% are struggling to reach their clients because of pandemic-related challenges; nearly half have instituted hiring freezes, furloughs or layoffs; and 65% said they have canceled fundraising events. </p><p>Austin Pets Alive is facing this perfect storm of challenges. Since the pandemic began, thousands of residents have <a href="https://austonia.com/austinites-seek-quarantine-companions-as-animal-shelters-work-to-adjust" target="_self"><u>fostered or adopted pets</u></a>, which has been a huge relief, Public Relations and Events Manager Katera Berent said. But the organization has also taken in more animals, as rescues and shelters in rural areas have shut down in response to the pandemic. "That has been a very big change for us," she added.</p><p>Meanwhile, APA's normally robust volunteer force—around 2,000 people strong—is largely out of commission with the shelter closed to the public and social distancing recommendations still in effect. Fundraising is also down, which Berent attributes in part to rising unemployment. Its other revenue streams—a couple of thrift stores, which remain closed, and in-person events—have also dried up. "We're a bit nervous," she said. </p><p>Foundation Communities, an affordable housing developer, is in the same boat. The nonprofit has suspended its in-person volunteer programs, which provide tenants with services such as tutoring and tax preparation assistance. "We're challenged because most of our work is shoulder-to-shoulder," Executive Director Walter Moreau said. </p><p>The organization's annual fundraiser is scheduled for October, which is a concern, as is the economic slump that has accompanied the pandemic. "We've seen some foundations kind of pull back on giving because of uncertainty," he said. "Their endowments may have declined in the market, so they don't have as much money to give." </p><p>In response, nonprofits have been forced to adapt. Megan Ambrose—the vice president of marketing and events for Notley Ventures, an Austin-based venture capital fund that invests in nonprofits and social enterprises—<a href="https://www.wearenotley.com/edu-blog/nonprofit-pivot-feature-code2college" target="_blank"><u>pointed to Code2College</u></a> as an example. The local organization works to support minority and low-income high school students in STEM fields and has received funding from Notley. In response to the pandemic, its staff has created an online curriculum and is working to develop a virtual alternative for summer internships. </p><p>"That's sort of the most inspiring part of the pandemic—is how well the nonprofits and social impact community are adapting and innovating," Ambrose said, while adding that these organizations still need support to survive. "It's a really tough time." </p><p>Courtney Manuel is the executive director of I Live Here I Give Here, which works to encourage philanthropy through events such as Amplify Austin. She worries that the worst may still be ahead for nonprofits, as loans such as the Paycheck Protection Program run out and the full economic fall-out of this pandemic becomes clear.</p><p>"The community turns to the nonprofit community to support them when times are really dire," she said. "So if we're not supporting our nonprofits right now so that they exist when we're on the other side of this thing, we're not going to have the infrastructure that we need to respond as things continue to unfold."</p>
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