Local COVID hospitalization average continues dropping below Stage 5 range, but City health officials hold off of reducing official precaution levels to Stage 4 for now - they're worried about a flu comeback resulting in a "twin-demic". A group of Austin parents have sued AISD over masking requirements, just as Austin public schools are sporting the lowest COVID infection rates in the area. The Austin Police Department refines policies on emergency calls, reserving 9-1-1 only for immediate threats to safety or property. The fire at a Georgetown dog boarding facility that killed 75 dogs has motivated upgrades to safety requirements for such businesses in the area. Barton Creek and Sculpture Falls are closed after swimmers are sickened by waterborne bacteria. The Ann Richards School Band loses a brand new equipment trailer to theft, but AISD Police get it back the same day. Austin Business Journal forecasts growth and related problems along the Austin/San Antonio metro corridor. Austin and the Fredericksburg get notice as great places to retire. Texas destroys Texas Tech 70-35, but still doesn't make the top 25 - the Horns are also down to Georgia as a competitor for hotshot QB recruit Arch Manning. Top 25 high school football rankings include Westlake, Lake Travis and Vandegrift. Austin FC gets a win to break a five-game losing streak. Willie Nelson brings the Family along for a new album. And much-needed rain is on the way - just in time for Weekend 1 of the ACL Fest.
