Earth Day 2021 sees celebrations of nature and environmental protection around the city, and a new report on Texas' explosive growth in solar energy capacity - unfortunately, it also sees the beginning of a major effort to clear vegetation killed in the February winter freeze, including as many as 90% of Austin's palm trees. A new federal lawsuit accuses former Williamson County Sheriff Robert Chody of running his department "like a state-sanctioned gang", complete with rewards for violent arrests. A compromise over "The Eyes Of Texas" leads to further division amongst UT's music and marching band programs. The Downtown Austin Alliance issues findings on the impact of and recovery from the year of pandemic. And, a Round Rock High junior scores a perfect 1600 on the SAT - nice work sir!
