Our local COVID related hospitalization average has surpassed the peak of the first pandemic wave of the summer of 2020. Complicating things, hospital, medical and first responder staffs are impacted with high sick outages. Same for teachers, with Austin, Leander and Lake Travis ISD's facing difficulty covering classes and student transit. Austin returns to Stage 5 precautions, but their dining guidelines are inconsistent with limitations placed on local restaurants by the state. Round Rock ISD superintendent Dr. Hafedh Azaiez finds himself suspended amid accusations related to an alleged mistress, and further accusations that he has inappropriately directed school police to silence critics. Early voting in the special election to replace outgoing District 4 City Council Member Greg Casar begins Monday. Also on Monday evening, the Windsor Hills Neighborhood Association is hosting a conversation with the candidates on their Facebook page - and early voting for the rest of us, in the March 2 primary election, starts February 14. Former two-term Austin Mayor Bruce Todd's memorial and committal services were held yesterday, following his death on Christmas Day at the age of 72. Austin's job growth rating over the pandemic is the second-best in the country, following only Salt Lake City. P. Terry's Burger Stand plans early 2023 openings for new outlets in East Austin and Cedar Park. Deep Eddy Pool remains closed due to delays with replacement parts for a faulty pump. Flatonia, Texas is crowned the Lightning Capital of the U.S. And a chilly Friday will be followed by Saturday morning rain and a Saturday high near 70.
