Founders Table bought Austin-born Hopdoddy and plans to expand the chain via licensing and nontraditional locations while promoting Kenny Jett to president.

The Austin African American Book Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary this Saturday at the Carver Museum with Nikole Hannah-Jones, John Hope Bryant and family programming.

A brother and sister tied to a cartel‑backed human smuggling ring were sentenced this week after prosecutors said their actions led to hostage‑taking and deaths.

The Dakota East Side Ice House will close Aug. 9 after owner Kent Oliver declines to renew the lease. The East Side staple will mark its final weeks with events and gatherings.

Austin police posted photos Wednesday seeking brothers Christopher and Larry Claypool, both wanted on burglary warrants. Tips to Crime Stoppers may be eligible for a reward.

Moody Tongue Sushi will stage a summer residency at The Loren in Austin from July 2 through October, pairing craft beers with elevated sushi and specialty martinis.

Austin police will livestream an 11 a.m. briefing Wednesday on the June 17 death of Francesca Ortiz at Waters at Bluff Springs; detectives are urging anyone with footage to call the homicide tip line.

A Taquería de Diez sign is up on Guadalupe near UT, promising late‑night tacos and a new face‑off with nearby Salsa Limón. The chain lists 3023 Guadalupe as "Opening Soon."

Upper 90s and gusty southerly winds today in Austin; heat index near 101°F. City cooling centers are available during normal hours.

An Austin teen accused in the 2025 Lit Lounge shooting now faces two felony counts tied to an alleged June 15 robbery, court papers and police records show.

Heavy spring rains have pushed Medina and Canyon lakes up from record lows, but federal forecasters say a strengthening El Niño could still presage years of drought. Experts warn that brief floods don’t erase long groundwater deficits and that a strong El Niño can be followed by multi‑year dryness.

A two‑day undercover operation in Williamson County led to eight arrests on online solicitation charges; authorities say the multi‑agency probe is ongoing.

The family of a 16‑year‑old shot in October 2025 has sued former APD officer James McKinney and the City of Austin, alleging unconstitutional use of force and seeking over $1 million. The suit says the teen will need ongoing medical care.