🌵 Lake Travis is heading into the heart of summer

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The rain this year has been a real blessing. After several brutally dry years, Austin is running about 3 inches ahead of this point last year, and April came in as the 14th wettest on record.

The big thing I’m watching is Lake Travis. It’s the backbone of Austin’s water supply and a huge part of summer life here. Right now, it’s around 670 feet, about 82% full. Full is 681, and last June we were at just 43%. If we can hold through summer and catch some fall rain, we’ve got a real shot at filling it for the first time since 2019.

One note: the Edwards Aquifer is separate and still needs help. The lakes can refill fast from rain upstream, but the aquifer recovers slowly when local storms soak into nearby creeks.

Either way, this is the best shape we’ve been in for years. Here’s to a green, full summer.

The Gist: Lake Travis ISD school board trustees approved a new employee compensation plan for the 2026-27 school year, adjusting hiring schedules for teachers, librarians, tech support, and transportation staff. A formal budget hearing is scheduled for June 30 to officially adopt the final operating budget.

Why It Matters: Prioritizing staff salaries during a tough budget year is a meaningful investment in keeping high-quality, familiar faces in our neighborhood hallways.

Read more here.

The Gist: Eanes ISD opened annual membership sales for the new Eanes Aquatics Center next to Westlake High School for the June 1, 2026, through May 31, 2027 season. Available through Hometown Ticketing, the exclusive memberships grant access for lap swimming and pickleball.

Why It Matters: Funded by the 2019 Bond program, this state-of-the-art facility is finally opening its doors to the broader public. It brings top-tier fitness, recreation, and event spaces right into our neighborhood, beautifully bridging the gap between student athletics and community wellness.

Read more here.

At Blind Salamander Kitchen & Bar, the scenery competes with the food for attention. Overlooking the rolling Hill Country from the grounds of the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa, the restaurant serves thoughtfully prepared seafood, oysters, steaks, and homemade pasta alongside well-crafted cocktails.

Attentive service and a calm, polished atmosphere make it an easy choice for anniversaries, date nights, or any evening that deserves a little something extra special.

More details here.

TOPS Pest Control is the local crew keeping Hill Country homes bug-free, with no contracts and no stress.

🐶 Safe for pets, proven to work
🐜 Covers ants, roaches, scorpions and more
✅ No-Nonsense Guarantee: not happy, they'll fix it or pay someone who will

👉 Call Jenna & Kyle to book: (737) 338-7540 or check them out HERE.

Thank you to our local sponsors who help make this newsletter possible 🙏

Runaway Luna Lifestyle blends a thoughtfully curated boutique with a warm, community-focused gathering space. Visitors browse vintage finds, handmade gifts, jewelry, home décor, and seasonal treasures while enjoying an atmosphere that encourages lingering and connection.

The small café adds coffee and light bites to the experience, but the real draw is the inviting environment and ever-changing collection of unique pieces. Many guests return again and again, not just to shop, but to spend time in a space that feels so genuinely welcoming.

More details here.

🎮 Rolling Video Games | Lake Travis Community Library | Lakeway | 06/12 | More
Mobile gaming trailer packed with consoles and fun for all ages.

🎬 The Sandlot Movie Night | Swim Center | Lakeway | 06/12 | More
Free outdoor movie with games, inflatables, and classic summer snacks.

🎨 Hammer & Keychain Painting | McCoy's Building Supply | Bee Cave | 06/13 | More
Kids can create a colorful handmade gift for Dad.

🏐 B.E.E. F.A.S.T. | Hill Country Indoor | Bee Cave | 06/13–06/14 | More
Competitive volleyball supporting stroke awareness and community engagement.

🦈 Shark Pool Party | Lakeway Swim Center | Lakeway | 06/14 | More
Shark-themed games, giveaways, and splash-filled family fun.

🐉 Wings of Fire | Public Library | Bee Cave | 06/17 | More
Dragon-themed crafts, games, and adventures for young fantasy fans.

🤠 Summer Night Showdown | Little Woodrow's | Bee Cave | 06/12 | More
Live country music, dancing, and summer nightlife under the lights.

🎯 Cornhole Tournament | Hurst Harbor Marina | Austin | 06/12 | More
Friendly lakeside competition supporting a local veterans charity.

😂 G.O.A.T. Show | Civil Goat | Austin | 06/13 | More
An intimate comedy showcase featuring top Austin comedians and surprise guests.

🎤 Bad Decisions & Bold Reds | Feral Housewife Wine | Austin | 06/18 | More
Casual karaoke night paired with wine, laughs, and zero judgment.

🎷 Jazz Down Thursday | Meridian 98 | Bee Cave | 06/18 | More
Live jazz, cocktails, and rooftop views create a relaxed evening vibe.

🍷 Community Happy Hour | Hops & Thyme | Lakeway | 06/18 | More
Casual evening gathering for conversation, drinks, and local connection.

🎬 Movie Night: Daddy Day Care | Spare Birdie Public House | Cedar Park | 06/11 | More
Free family movie night under the stars on the lawn.

🎵 Hartman Concerts in the Park | The Long Center | Austin | 06/14 | More
Free outdoor classical and jazz ensemble concert with picnic-friendly vibes.

🎉 Wilco America 250 Celebration | Old Settlers Association | Round Rock | 06/14 | More
Family festival with music, games, and patriotic-themed entertainment.

🎬 Movies on the Lake: Jaws | Mozart’s Coffee Roasters | Austin | 06/18 | More
Lakeside outdoor movie night with music, drinks, and sunset views.

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