A big spike in daily COVID deaths - 23 on Wednesday - pushes the overall county total past 1,000. On the bright side, new hospitalization average continues to decline, and is now approaching Stage 4. Marble Falls ISD backtracks on a new masking mandate that was set to begin this month. UT Health continues a public study of COVID antibody rates. ACL Fest organizers will again trade single day passes for initial vaccinations - while their special events permit from the City remains unapproved. An Austin woman is suing Austin Energy and ERCOT over the death of her elderly mother, who was lost amidst the February freeze. Taylor and Williamson County have approved a slate of incentives for Samsung's proposed new semiconductor plant. Shinyribs announces that bassist Jeff Brown has died. Mount Bonnell sees a dramatic crime spike. Westlake High junior Jason Roberts makes the U.S. national team in speed climbing. The Dallas Cowboys take on Super Bowl champs Tampa Bay and Tom Brady tonight as regular NFL play begins. And another couple of super hot days before a cooldown begins this weekend.
