What a great turn-out despite some rain!

SALT members from all over Austin gathered together on September 7th to meet with police officers to discuss ways of staying safe. 

July 22, 2017. The day was a hot as the cars. Everybody was a Highway Star.

APD Chief Chris McIlvain and Mr. and Mrs. Blue Santa appeared at the Omni Hotel's holiday celebration. A good time was had by all.

A gaggle of volunteers from Superior Health Plan spent nearly two hour putting together 3,900 boxes, which will hold food for families receiving assistance from Operation Blue Santa!

Speakers included:
* Mayor Steve Adler
* Judy Shepard, mother of Matt Shepard
* Sheriff Dave O’Malley, lead investigator of Matthew Shepard’s homicide
* U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas, Richard L. Durbin
* A panel discussion of subject matter experts facilitated by University of Texas Processor Tanya Voss
 
Mayor Steve Adler concluded his opening remarks by announcing his support for the establishment of an LGBTQ quality of life commission to support the health, safety, and quality of life priorities of Austin’s diverse LGBTQ communities.  Charles Loosen, APD Liaison to LGBTQ constituents, has worked with stakeholders for over two years to advance this community-driven proposal.  Austin will now join Houston as the second city in Texas to establish this type of advisory commission, further crystalizing Austin’s status as one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cities in the nation and the top retirement location for LGBTQ seniors.
 
The Austin Police Department prides itself on being accessible, respectful, and responsive to all residents and visitors.  Questions about APD’s policies, practices, and initiatives to improve service to historically under-represented communities may be directed to APD’s Office of Community Liaison: 512-974-4700
 
Media Coverage:
 
http://www.austinchronicle.com/news/2016-10-28/pushing-forward/
http://www.fox7austin.com/news/local-news/214107236-story
http://kxan.com/2016/10/27/mayor-police-join-to-prevent-hate-crimes-in-central-texas/
http://keyetv.com/news/local/austin-mayor-pushes-for-creation-of-lgbtq-commission
http://patch.com/texas/downtownaustin/austin-police-host-forum-current-state-bias-against-lgbtq-community
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Data.World came and sorted and wrapped presents. First volunteer group of the 2016 season!