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In this week’s newsletter:

🌡️ Extreme Heat Warning Issued for Austin

⚽ Austin FC Hosts Atlanta United at Q2 Stadium

🕊️ Historic Oakwood Cemetery Plot Reopens

🚗 Tesla’s Robotaxi Plan Faces Federal Scrutiny

🎶 H-E-B Launches ‘True Texas Tunes’ Concert Series on South Congress

👉 First time reading?

A MESSAGE FROM SAGUN: STAYING GROUNDED WHILE AUSTIN RISES

As Austin continues to grow and evolve, it’s essential to stay connected to the community and the events that shape our city’s unique character.

Whether it’s embracing new initiatives or honoring our rich history, let’s explore what’s happening this week.

🌡️ EXTREME HEAT WARNING ISSUED FOR AUSTIN

Austin is entering dangerous heat territory this week. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning across Central Texas, with highs expected to reach 105°F to 108°F through midweek.

These temperatures are well above average for May and could challenge historic records. The city has opened cooling centers at various libraries and community centers to provide relief for vulnerable populations.

⚠️ Officials urge residents to:

• Avoid strenuous activity between 12–6 p.m.

• Stay indoors when possible

• Drink water frequently, even if you’re not thirsty

• Check on elderly neighbors and outdoor pets

This early heat wave could be a preview of a hotter-than-usual summer. Stay cool, Austin.

⚽ AUSTIN FC HOSTS ATLANTA UNITED AT Q2 STADIUM

Get ready for some high-stakes action on the pitch. Austin FC is gearing up to take on Atlanta United on Wednesday, May 22, at Q2 Stadium.

This will be only the second time the two clubs have faced off. Austin is riding a strong wave of home support and is looking to build momentum mid-season.

🎟️ Tickets are selling fast

🎉 Verde fans can join the pre-game festivities at the stadium’s outdoor plaza

📺 For those watching at home, coverage starts at 8:30 p.m. CT on Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass

Whether you’re in the stands or watching from a patio downtown, it’s going to be a match worth tuning in for.

🕊️ HISTORIC OAKWOOD CEMETERY PLOT REOPENS

A piece of Austin’s past has been thoughtfully restored. The burial plot for the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, located within Historic Oakwood Cemetery, has officially reopened to the public following a major preservation effort.

This project was led by a coalition of local groups, including the Austin Parks and Recreation Department, Save Austin’s Cemeteries, and the school itself.

🔍 The site honors over 70 students from the 1800s and early 1900s

📍 New interpretive signage and paths improve access and context

🕯️ A rededication ceremony was held on May 14, with descendants and historians in attendance

It’s a meaningful moment for Austin’s historical and inclusive storytelling.

🚗 TESLA’S ROBOTAXI PLAN FACES FEDERAL SCRUTINY

Just weeks ahead of its planned Robotaxi launch in Austin, Tesla is facing new pressure from regulators.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has formally requested more information about the safety and functionality of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software.

Key concerns include:

• Performance during poor weather (fog, rain, dust storms)

• Pedestrian and cyclist detection in urban areas

• Emergency braking and lane discipline

💬 Elon Musk has confirmed the pilot is still scheduled for June 2025, but the investigation could delay the timeline.

Austin was handpicked as one of Tesla’s first cities for rollout, and the results here could shape how autonomous mobility scales nationwide.

🎶 H-E-B LAUNCHES ‘TRUE TEXAS TUNES’ CONCERT SERIES ON SOUTH CONGRESS

H-E-B is launching a new community-focused initiative by partnering with the Austin nonprofit Housing Opportunities for Musicians and Entertainers (HOME) to host a monthly concert series called “True Texas Tunes” at its South Congress location.

HOME provides financial housing assistance to aging musicians in need.

These free concerts, open to the public, will take place on the third Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the store’s True Texas BBQ section.

Upcoming performers include Shelley King, Carolyn Wonderland, Midnight Snack, and Sister Golden Hair. 

THIS WEEK’S WRAP-UP

🎤 Local Buzz: Austin FC is heating up just like the weather — expect a packed stadium and rowdy home crowd this Wednesday.

💡 Pro Tip: With the heat peaking, now’s the time to explore Austin’s coolest indoor spots — like museums, speakeasies, and hotel pool passes.

📅 Event of the Week: True Texas Tunes at H-E-B South Congress kicks off this Saturday. Enjoy live music and support local artists.