Austin news

• How to create care kits for Kentucky tornado survivors

  28-12-2021 23:18 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — Tito's Handmade Vodka is teaming up with the Austin Disaster Relief Network to help survivors of the recent Kentucky tornadoes, and they want your help.The ADRN is collecting survivor donations kits at its headquarters off East 51st Street.Tito's is helping by providing trucks and truck drivers due to the nationwide shortage because of COVID-19. ‘Nobody’s applying’: Checking in on Texas’ truck driver shortage"If you're focused on your basic needs, t
  
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• Austin COVID-19 testing site braces for another surge as federal mandate looms for large employers

  28-12-2021 23:12 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) -- COVID-19 testing sites are still working to meet demand, and with a federal vaccine mandate back in effect for large employers, some are already preparing for the next surge.A U.S. court of appeals has allowed the U.S. Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) vaccine mandate to remain in place.LIST: Where to get a COVID-19 test in Austin heading into the new yearThe rule requires employers with a total of at least 100 workers to enforce a mandato
  
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• Woman repeatedly punched by Austin officers sues city

  28-12-2021 22:49 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) -- A woman who was repeatedly punched and dragged by police officers in Austin during a trespass call that was recorded on cell phone video has sued the city, claiming excessive force.The 26-year-old, Simone Nicole Griffith, was laying down outside a pediatrician’s office on Oct. 30 at a strip mall on Highway 183 when two officers conducting an urgent trespass call arrived, according to the lawsuit, filed on Christmas Eve.Rebecca Webber, Griffith’s attorney, said in the
  
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• COVID-19 hospitalizations in Austin double in a week, expect Stage 4

  28-12-2021 22:39 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Exactly a week ago, the number of people Austin Public Health reported were in local hospitals was 104. Tuesday that number jumped to 203, nearly doubling.
  The city's key indicators for staging dashboard showed 64 new admissions to hospitals Tuesday. It brought the 7-day moving average of hospital admissions to 36, squarely in the threshold for Stage 4 guidelines. The number of people in local intensive care units also jumped roughly 20 people over last week.
  "Austin Public Heal
  
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• ZACH Theatre cancels remaining 'A Christmas Carol' shows

  28-12-2021 22:35 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — ZACH Theatre said Tuesday it's canceling all remaining performances of "A Christmas Carol" through Jan. 2.
  The theatre said "rigorous testing protocols" revealed several breakthrough cases of COVID-19 within the staff and crew of the show.
  Last week, the theatre said it was only canceling "A Christmas Carol" shows through Sunday, Dec. 26, and crews were hoping to at least put on shows the last week of the run through Jan. 2. BACKGROUND | COVID Christmas cancelations: ZACH T
  
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• Small business owner uses Travis County COVID-19 grant to build mobile tutoring van

  28-12-2021 22:35 via kxan.com
  
  TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) — Another round of money is coming for Travis County small businesses.Travis County commissioners are considering another $8 million in funds from federal relief money, some of which would go toward administrative costs.
  The first round of funding in Travis County was roughly $9.4 million and went to more than 220 small businesses through the county's Thrive Program. City of Austin hands out $3,000 grants to more than 40 schools for green projects"I had to think
  
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• CDC lowers estimate of omicron prevalence in US

  28-12-2021 21:45 via kxan.com
  
  (The Hill) -- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Tuesday significantly revised downward the estimate of the percentage of new COVID-19 infections in the U.S. caused by the omicron variant of the virus.According to agency data, omicron accounted for about 59 percent of all U.S. infections as of Dec. 25. Previously, the CDC said the omicron variant comprised 73% of all cases for the week ending Dec. 18. But that number has now been revised to 22.5% of all cases. LIST: Where to
  
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• 2021's top 10 costliest global weather disasters cost nations $170 billion

  28-12-2021 21:25 via kxan.com
  
  (KXAN) — The top 10 costliest weather-related disasters in 2021 totaled $170 billion across the world, $20 billion more than 2020 or a 13% increase. This is according to U.K. charity-based Christian Aid in its most recent report.
  The group said the costs it estimates are also based only on insured losses, meaning the actual costs of these events may be higher.The costliest disaster of 2021 across the globe was Hurricane Ida in August, tallying $65 billion in damages. Hurricane Ida was the
  
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• What is a Virga? Understanding the unusual weather pattern

  28-12-2021 20:28 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) - You've likely seen one before even if you didn't know it: a Virga. In this First Warning Weather University lesson, Chief Meteorologist David Yeomans explains this unusual weather pattern and why it can be troublesome for pilots.In this First Warning Weather University lesson you will learn:What is a virga?How does it form?How a virga can create wind gusts?More from First Warning Weather University:Why do the trees change color in the fall? It is all about hungry trees eating sun
  
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• Sunday Sam? Ehlinger in line to start for Colts after Wentz goes on COVID-19 list

  28-12-2021 20:26 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — It could be Sam's time to shine Sunday.With Colts starting quarterback Carson Wentz going on the NFL's COVID-19/reserve list Tuesday, that paves the way for former Texas Longhorns quarterback Sam Ehlinger to not only start but try to keep the team on track for a playoff berth.
  With Carson Wentz out Sunday, Indy’s playoff hopes now figure to rest with QB Sam Ehlinger. https://t.co/Kap2JlIZk9— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 28, 2021
  It's not a guarantee th
  
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• Central Texans who recently tested positive for COVID-19 describe symptoms

  28-12-2021 20:18 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Nearly 2,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Austin-Travis County over the past week, according to Austin's COVID-19 dashboard. That doesn't include people who tested at home or through private sites.
  The CDC is reporting roughly 90% of cases in the six-state region Texas is in are omicron. So what can you expect if you get sick with COVID-19 right now? We asked Central Texans who recently tested positive to describe their symptoms.
  Seasonal allergies mix with omicro
  
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• APD: Missing Kentucky teen found in Austin

  28-12-2021 19:51 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) -- A teenager missing from Kentucky was found safe in Austin Tuesday morning, police said.
  Austin police said officers found the child safe and that a suspect was detained, but no details about the child or the circumstances leading up to the incident were released.No new leads ‘disheartening’ in San Antonio missing 3-year-old caseAPD said the child's family was notified and reunification plans were underway.
  Due to being a multi-agency investigation, APD said there wer
  
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• Maintaining a work-life balance can help reduce stress and prevent burnout

  28-12-2021 19:15 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) —More people in Texas are quitting their jobs more than anywhere else in the country.According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics nearly 1 million Texans quit their jobs in September and October. It's called "the great resignation," and it's happening nationwide. Why can’t we get rid of the trees that cause ‘cedar fever?’For some, it's because of a lack of work-life balance, but an expert tells KXAN there are steps you can take to make sure you don't get
  
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• LIST: Where to get a COVID-19 test in Austin heading into the new year

  28-12-2021 18:30 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) -- After people traveled and gathered for the holidays, many are looking for COVID-19 tests heading into the new year. Health leaders are asking people to test before and after traveling out of Austin.
  It seems folks are responding. Multiple companies told KXAN they’re seeing a surge in testing demand, including national pharmacies and local companies who opened as a product of the pandemic. Here are some options if you need a COVID-19 test heading into the new year.
  Nomi Hea
  
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• COVID-19 cancels Texas women's basketball game against Alcorn State

  28-12-2021 18:21 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) -- The Texas women's basketball game against Alcorn State on Dec. 29 has been canceled, the program announced Tuesday.
  University of Texas athletics officials said the cancellation was due to COVID-19 protocols within the Longhorns' program.
  There were no plans to reschedule the game against the Braves.
  The team is set to return to the court to open Big 12 Conference play against Oklahoma State at 2 p.m. on Jan. 2. The game will be on ESPN+.
  
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• Police in San Antonio provide update on search for 3-year-old girl

  28-12-2021 17:34 via kxan.com
  
  SAN ANTONIO, Texas (KXAN) — San Antonio police are giving an update on the search for a 3-year-old girl who went missing Dec. 20.An Amber Alert was issued Dec. 20 for Lina Sardar Khil, who police still believe is in danger. She was last seen in the 9400 block of Fredericksburg Road in San Antonio around 5 p.m. that day.
  Lina's father, Riaz Sardar Khil, the family initially thought Lina may have left the playground with another Afghan family but now believes she may have been abducted.
  
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• No new leads 'disheartening' in San Antonio missing 3-year-old case

  28-12-2021 17:34 via kxan.com
  
  SAN ANTONIO, Texas (KXAN) — San Antonio police say they have received no new leads that would help them find Lina Sardar Khil, who's been missing more than a week, but they are still searching and continue to receive tips.Lina Sardar Khil is 3-years-old and was last seen Dec. 20 at a playground in the 9400 block of Fredericksburg Road in San Antonio. An Amber Alert was issued for her later that day.Investigators have honed in on a time between 4:49 p.m. and 5:07 p.m. where they don't have
  
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• LIVE: Police in San Antonio provide update on search for 3-year-old girl

  28-12-2021 17:34 via kxan.com
  
  SAN ANTONIO, Texas (KXAN) — San Antonio police are giving an update on the search for a 3-year-old girl who went missing Dec. 20.An Amber Alert was issued Dec. 20 for Lina Sardar Khil, who police still believe is in danger. She was last seen in the 9400 block of Fredericksburg Road in San Antonio around 5 p.m. that day.
  Lina's father, Riaz Sardar Khil, the family initially thought Lina may have left the playground with another Afghan family but now believes she may have been abducted.
  
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• Austin FC adds offense with signing of striker Maxi Urruti

  28-12-2021 17:01 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — Austin FC signed a nine-year Major League Soccer veteran Tuesday with hopes he'll help put the ball in the back of the net next season.
  A proven winner. #AustinFC signs striker Maximiliano “Maxi” Urruti.
  Welcome to Austin, Maxi!— Austin FC (@AustinFC) December 28, 2021
  Maxi Urruti, an Argentine striker who has notched 60 goals and 37 assists in MLS, signed a two-year contract with a team option for a third year, and Sporting Director Claudio Reyna said he
  
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• Why can't we get rid of the trees that cause 'cedar fever?'

  28-12-2021 15:59 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) - People with cedar allergies are probably feeling it this week. We're dealing with the highest cedar pollen count so far this season Tuesday, 24,875 grains per cubic meter, a little shy of the all-time record in Austin, which was over 30,000 grains per cubic meter. The last time we saw counts this high was this time last December.Since "cedar fever" is such a problem, many people are looking for a solution. One that has been floated at least once by every cedar sufferer — ge
  
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• Police looking for vandals after theft, flooding at Pflugerville middle school

  28-12-2021 14:22 via kxan.com
  
  PFLUGERVILLE, Texas (KXAN) — Police in Pflugerville are looking for three people connected with vandalism at a middle school Dec. 23.Pflugerville Independent School District police said the trio of vandals broke into Bohls Middle School off Pleasanton Parkway around 2:30 a.m. Multiple areas of the campus were vandalized, police said, and eye wash stations in science labs were turned on, which led to flooding. Police said the suspects also stole items from the school.The suspects were recor
  
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• Austin transportation leaders seek public feedback on street changes

  28-12-2021 13:35 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — As Austin continues to grow, city leaders are working to map out the best way to develop the road system. It's all part of Austin’s transportation blueprint — the Austin Strategic Mobility Plan.The Austin Strategic Mobility Plan or ASMP's Street Network is the city's framework for improvements over the next 20 years and beyond. "Today 74% of Austinites drive to work alone and in order for us to grow sustainably into the future, we need t
  
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• Body found near Seguin identified as teen missing since October

  28-12-2021 04:35 via kxan.com
  
  GUADALUPE COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) — Human remains found near Seguin last Monday have been identified as a teenager who's been missing since late October. His death is being considered a homicide.
  The Guadalupe County Sheriff's Office said it was alerted Monday by Texas Rangers that the body belonged to Benjamin “Tank” Loera, 16, from Vanderbilt, Texas. RELATED: Decomposed body found Monday near Seguin not believed to be missing TXST studentThe Jackson County Sheriff's Office and T
  
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• Body found near Seguin identified as missing 16 year old

  28-12-2021 04:35 via kxan.com
  
  GUADALUPE COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) — Human remains found near Seguin last Monday have been identified as a teenager who's been missing since late October. His death is being considered a homicide.
  The Guadalupe County Sheriff's Office said it was alerted Monday by Texas Rangers that the body belonged to Benjamin “Tank” Loera, 16, from Vanderbilt, Texas. RELATED: Decomposed body found Monday near Seguin not believed to be missing TXST studentThe Jackson County Sheriff's Office and T
  
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• We Are Blood enduring long-term blood donation shortage

  28-12-2021 04:13 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — We Are Blood said it's been experiencing a long-term blood donation shortage since October.A spokesperson for the blood bank said there are a few reasons that's happening. He said there is always a shortage in blood donations during the holiday season, because people are busy with travel and holiday commitments. Less donors, instances of gun violence contributing to Central Texas blood shortageBut he also said an increase in car crashes and shootings means more people need
  
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• MISSING: 70 year-old man last seen in east Austin

  28-12-2021 03:31 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — The Austin Police Department is asking for the public's help in finding a 70 year-old man who's been missing since Sunday morning. Due to a medical condition, he's believed to be in danger.Police said Leslie Lee Barefield was last seen around 9 a.m. Sunday at his home in the 5400 block of Darlington Lane in east Austin. APD said Barefield uses a breathing machine daily.He's described as:Black man 185 poundsGray hairBrown eyesLast seen wearing a dark-colored shirt, blue jean
  
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• FOUND: 70 year-old man last seen in east Austin

  28-12-2021 03:31 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — The Austin Police Department said it found a 70 year-old man who had been missing since Sunday morning in east Austin.He was safely returned to his home Tuesday.
  
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• POLL: Baylor stays No. 1, Texas slides to 17 during light week of hoops

  28-12-2021 02:50 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN/AP) — A combination of cancellations and the holidays made for a quiet week in college basketball.The latest Associated Press poll reflected the light week. Texas freshman Jaylon Tyson enters transfer portalBaylor remained No. 1 for the third straight week in the poll released Monday, receiving all 61 first-place votes from a national media panel. The Bears (11-0) had 60 first-place votes a week ago and were a unanimous selection this week with a blowout win over Alc
  
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• Whataburger teasing saucy surprise, internet left guessing the flavor

  28-12-2021 02:14 via kxan.com
  
  HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) - The Texas burger giant has been dropping hints of what appears to be a new dipping sauce.The mystery is real on Whataburger's Twitter feed. The burger chain has been leaving followers with more questions than answers with two posts that hint at a new flavor of dipping sauce.
  What could the flavor be?Your guess is as good as ours, but according to their caption, "it's almost here."The suspense is really heating up…it won’t be long now pic.twitter.co
  
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• Boise State pulls out of Arizona Bowl due to COVID-19 issues, CMU to Sun Bowl

  28-12-2021 01:24 via kxan.com
  
  (AP) — Boise State has pulled out of the Arizona Bowl and shut down all team activities due to COVID-19 issues within the program.The Broncos were scheduled to play Central Michigan at Arizona Stadium on Friday but instead joined numerous college basketball programs that have been hit with coronavirus issues coming out of the Christmas break. Two more bowl games canceled, SMU won’t play in Boston“We feel for the young men in our program who were very much looking forward to clo
  
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• Boise State pulls out of Arizona Bowl due to COVID-19 issues

  28-12-2021 01:24 via kxan.com
  
  (AP) — Boise State has pulled out of the Arizona Bowl and shut down all team activities due to COVID-19 issues within the program.The Broncos were scheduled to play Central Michigan at Arizona Stadium on Friday but instead joined numerous college basketball programs that have been hit with coronavirus issues coming out of the Christmas break. Two more bowl games canceled, SMU won’t play in Boston“We feel for the young men in our program who were very much looking forward to clo
  
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• Does Texas have enough PCR tests for the omicron surge?

  28-12-2021 00:52 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (Nexstar) — As the omicron variant continues spreading amidst a busy holiday season, Texans are trying to get their hands on at-home rapid COVID-19 tests and noticing empty shelves.
  "I have been looking online for more than a week trying everything and there's nothing at any pharmacies," Austin resident Sharon Gamble said Monday, waiting for a test from Nomi Health on Monday.
  The lack of available at-home tests at local pharmacies gives health experts some hope, as people are heedin
  
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• Positive test? Texas task force doctor talks COVID treatment options for 2022

  28-12-2021 00:43 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — New for 2022, a different slate of treatment options for COVID-19.
  KXAN checked in with a member of the Texas Medical Association's COVID-19 task force on Monday to discuss Pfizer and Merck's recently approved pill form treatments, along with other potential life-saving medicines in the pipeline.U.S. regulators authorized Pfizer’s pill, Paxlovid, and Merck’s molnupiravir last week. The White House announced it had ordered 10-million treatment courses of Pfizer's
  
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• Austin Metro COVID-19 hospitalizations pass Stage 4 threshold

  28-12-2021 00:32 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) — The Austin metro area's number of new COVID-19 hospitalizations just passed the threshold required to shift to Stage 4 in the city's risk-based guidelines.While still officially in Stage 3, Austin-Travis County's hospitalization numbers would warrant an upgrade in stage levels. As of Monday, an average of 28 people have been admitted to the hospital with COVID-19 each day over the past seven days. The threshold for Stage 4 is an average of 25 hospital admissions per day.APH
  
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• Austin police not ending 6th Street weekend closures at this time

  28-12-2021 00:30 via kxan.com
  
  AUSTIN (KXAN) —On Monday, a memo from Austin Police Department and the City of Austin offered new updates on several action items a part of the Safer Sixth Street Initiative, which is focused on ramping up safety efforts along the Entertainment District amid a spike in violent crime.
  Among the updates, Austin police said it doesn't plan on exploring ending weekend closures along 6th Street.
  Previously, the city had offered several recommendations with a goal to "bring a wider demographic t
  
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