The general trend in local COVID-related hospitalizations continues to drop over the last week - however, this may be in part due to local hospitals hitting capacity. A new record-high number of ICU patients was set for a third day in a row on Wednesday, and we're flirting with a new all-time high of overall COVID patients in hospital. The State denies Austin's request for help in setting up alternative COVID care sites. More Texans - mostly in urban areas - are seeking initial vaccinations, as Austin Public Health prepares for September's booster shot start. Austin FC drops a third straight match to similarly-struggling Vancouver. Austin-based filmmaker Robert Rodriguez announces hot business with HBO Max, Roku and Disney. The Texas Hill Country wine region is rated third overall, beating out Napa and Sonoma Valleys. Shakey Graves kicks off the free Longhorn City Limits music series prior to the Texas football home opener on September 4, and vaccinations or negative tests will be required for Willie's Outlaw Festival on Sunday.
