As the country’s most whispered recession rolls on, the city budget faces an estimated $25.3 million deficit in 2009. At this economically fragile hour, Austin’s nonprofit human services organizations worry that the city will cut their funding when their assistance is needed most. more ›

Regardless of whatever Bill Maher might think, pediatricians, parenting experts, and a little organization called the Department of Health and Human Services recommend 12 months or more of breastfeeding. Austin has long been an area where breastfeeding and Attachment Parenting practices are supported. It's no surprise we have the breastfeeding moms and lactivists to prove it. Central Texas Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Coalition and Mother's Milk Bank at Austin are hosting Austin's second year... more ›

At tonight's meeting, the Animal Advisory Commission will discuss a proposal to move Town Lake Animal Center to 7201 Levander Loop (near the intersection of 183, Airport Boulevard and East First). We like the current location and it doesn't seem like major repairs are needed (at least to the part where they keep the cute little doggies), but Health & Human Services Department Director David Lurie, who has recommended the new site, says the... more ›

The new images on the front page were sent to us from Chris Carson, a photographer who took part in the bird stunt downtown yesterday. He has more photos and information posted on his webiste. Amidst the Avian Emergency downtown yesterday, the threat level reached Yellow, as Big Bird (played by Ivan Spaller of Floribunda) and a Hazmat worker (played by Kevin Witt of Three Jazz Collective) re-created the Terror on Congress. Carson was... more ›

Travis County hypochondriacs, take heed: Health and Human Services Department is offering a limited number of free flu shots next Wednesday and Thursday. With 6,000 extra doses originally earmarked for at-risk individuals, the health department has decided to immunize as many people as possible. The first-come first-serve shots are free, but they'll also be happy to accept $10 donations. Free Flu Shots Wednesday November 29th Thursday, November 30th Burger Center at 3200 Jones Road [map]... more ›

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A new campaign geared to a healthier lifestyle was kicked off this week by the Austin/Travis Country Health and Human Services department. The campaign, called i thrive is a "community initiative to motivate people to make healthy lifestyle choices so they can live longer, more fulfilling lives." more ›