🎒 Should Austin have AI schools?

🚣 ‘Rainey Street Ripper’ Ruled a Myth

Turns out, there’s no evidence of a serial killer lurking around Lady Bird Lake, according to a Texas State University study with the Austin Police Department. Decades of data show that drownings matched increases in nightlife, alcohol use, and crowds, and do not indicate a serial killer was involved. [Austin American-Statesman 🔐]

👀 Austin Ends Abortion Travel Fund

The City of Austin has ended its abortion travel fund to comply with a new Texas law banning public funds for out-of-state abortion care. The fund, established in 2024, supported expenses related to reproductive care. [The Daily Texan]

🎙️ Austin’s School Choices Now Include AI Schools

Austin-area students are facing new challenges, with new laws, looming campus closures, and more. There’s still another year before Texas students will be eligible for school vouchers, and new and innovative private schools — like the AI-driven Alpha School — are coming to town. We’re discussing these shifts and a new equity assessment in today’s show. [City Cast Austin]

💰 City Hall Festival Shorted Musicians

Several musicians at Austin’s city-sponsored “Party At the People’s House” say they were paid below the city’s required minimum of $200 per hour, per performer. City organizers have cited confusion over a 2023 policy, prompting calls for clearer rules on musician compensation. [Austin Monitor]

🛑 Suspected Overdoses at 6th Street Bar

The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission has opened an investigation after one employee died and four others were hospitalized after alleged overdoses at Buckshot Bar. TABC has issued violation citations to Buckshot in the past. [KXAN]