SUMMARY: Rizzbot is a three-foot-tall humanoid robot, wearing a cowboy hat, gaining popularity in Austin with nearly 500K TikTok followers and over 20 million likes. Built on a Unitree G1 platform costing about $15K-$50K with upgrades, Rizzbot weighs 77 lbs and performs dances taught at the University of Texas through motion capture technology. Operated remotely by an anonymous former YouTuber and biochemist, Rizzbot entertains crowds with preprogrammed moves, embodying charisma (“rizz”). UT Austin researchers developed its fluid motions and safety features. Seen around Austin and other cities, Rizzbot challenges stereotypes, making robots approachable and fun.

Read the full article

The post Rizzbot secrets revealed: Who is the mechanical man stalking Austin? appeared first on www.kxan.com

SUMMARY: Neighbors in the Tidwell Timbers neighborhood credited KHOU 11’s coverage for prompting city crews to clean up heavy trash piles that had been sitting for months. After complaints aired, Houston’s solid waste trucks rolled through, removing all bulk waste, much to residents’ satisfaction. The Civic Club president shared a video showing the cleanup progress. Houston Solid Waste noted heavy trash pickup is two weeks behind schedule, advising residents to follow their neighborhood’s pickup calendar to prevent future buildup. Jason Miles reported from northeast Houston for KHOU 11. Residents with community concerns are encouraged to submit news tips to KHOU.com.

Solid waste trucks rolled through on Wednesday after residents contacted KHOU 11 about piles of trash in their community.

Source

SUMMARY: The Texas Longhorns begin their season Saturday against Ohio State in Columbus, but their live mascot, Bevo—a 2,100-pound steer—won’t attend. Handler Ricky Brennes explained that traveling to Ohio early in the school year would disrupt students in the Silver Spurs Alumni Association, who manage Bevo, and the long trip isn’t ideal for the steer. The 18-hour drive requires multiple stops for Bevo to stretch and rest in pastures overnight, as he doesn’t stay in the trailer overnight. Bevo is expected to appear at the Longhorns’ next three home games starting September 6.

Read the full article

The post Bevo will not travel to Ohio for the Longhorns' showdown against the Buckeyes. Here's why appeared first on www.kxan.com