News from January 2022


'The omicron variant continues to be a rising threat': Brown, GOP colleagues work to get Central Texans vaccinated

The high vaccination rate in Travis County is due in large part to the bipartisan efforts of local lawmakers, according to County Judge Andy Brown.


Grackles flock to central Texas, in particular to grocery stores

It is grackle season in many areas of Texas, which involves area grocery stores being invaded by huge numbers of the large black birds.


'Can't wait to get started': Texas hires Pitt's Marion as new wide receivers coach

The University of Texas has hired Brennan Marion to join Steve Sarkissian's staff as the Longhorns' new wide receivers coach and passing game coordinator.


'The future is Verde': Austin FC re-signs Ring

Austin FC announced on Jan. 3 that it has re-signed midfielder and captain Alexander Ring to a multi-year contract.


Cannabis use could affect emotion processing

A first-of-its-kind review of the recent literature suggests that cannabis use could affect emotion processing, which can lead to difficulties with social relationships and possibly exacerbate the use of cannabis. The authors note, however, that more study is necessary to be certain of the findings.


Personal finance website ranks Austin 5th best city in U.S. for job opportunities

Austin rated fifth among 182 U.S. cities in a study by the personal finance website WalletHub that ranked the cities’ job-market strength based on indicators such as employment growth and starting pay.


Cruz reveals interest in running for president in 2024, predicts an 'enormous base of support'

Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) has indicated an interest in running for president again in 2024, amid rumors that former President Donald Trump may also run, according to a Spectrum News report.


'He is committed': Patrick receives re-election endorsement from Texas Health Care Association PAC

The re-election bid of Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who is still in quarantine after reportedly testing positive – and then negative – for COVID-19, has been endorsed by the Texas Health Care Association PAC.


'Solar power, clean energy is something that we should be incentivizing': PEC establishes new solar buyback rates

Members of the Pedernales Electric Co-Op, who voluntarily switched to solar power for their homes, will soon be getting less money back for the power they don’t use.


Wisconsin scientists discover first Old World animal that shows biofluorescence

Biofluorescence is present in the platypus and several other New World animals. Recently scientists documented it for the first time in an Old World mammal: the springhare.



Schoenfeld retires after 10-year career: 'I feel so fortunate to have lived out my childhood dream'

​Austin FC forward Aaron Schoenfeld announced his retirement from soccer ending a 10-year career cut short because of a knee injury.



'Well known for supporting athletes': Visa to be partner in 2023 Women's World Cup

Visa plans to partner with FIFA for the 2023 Women's World Cup, continuing to build on the company's support for women's sports.


City of Austin City Council will meet Jan. 4

City of Austin City Council will meet at 9 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 4.


City of Austin City Council will meet Jan. 4

City of Austin City Council will meet Tuesday, Jan. 4.