What’s Up, College Station?

Summer is a time for backyard barbecues, pool days and Independence Day celebrations, but it's also one of the busiest seasons for the College Station Fire Department. In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?,” Grace Hallowell sits down with CSFD Captain Stuart Marrs to discuss how residents can stay safe during the hottest months of the year. From grilling safety and wildfire prevention to fireworks regulations and home fire preparedness, Stuart shares practical advice to help protect your family, pets and property.

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?,” Parks and Recreation’s Jeep Wentsch and Jessica Scott offer details about the I Heart America Fourth of July celebration at the Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater, which features free food, family activities, a headlining performance by the Josh Abbott Band, and a synchronized fireworks display. Jessica also introduces a new alternative event, Red, White and Splash, offering community members a chance to swim, play yard games, and view the fireworks from Adamson Lagoon. These free events are designed to build community spirit and provide safe, memorable experiences as part of the milestone America 250 celebration. >> Read the Accessible Transcript   The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly on Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected]. -30-

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?,” College Station Police Department Public Information Officer David Simmons discusses crucial summer safety strategies, the proper use of 911 versus the non-emergency dispatch line, and highlights the "Lock, Take, Hide" protocol to prevent vehicle burglaries and package theft. Officer Simmons also addresses key seasonal concerns, including strict parental supervision at local pools, staying hydrated during extreme heat, and establishing healthy boundaries for teenagers on summer break. He urges residents to report suspicious behavior directly to law enforcement rather than relying on neighborhood social media groups. >> Read the Accessible Transcript The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly on Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected]. -30-

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?, Parks and Recreation’s Samantha Holland and Amy Teufel discuss the growing market of youth sports tourism and explain how College Station’s strategic location within the "Texas triangle" helps attract teams from across the country. They highlight major upcoming summer events, specifically the State 7on7 football tournament and the Games of Texas, which bring tens of thousands of visitors to the area. The interview details how these massive tournaments generate millions of dollars in economic impact. They also praise the dedicated local operations crew and emphasize how the city’s trademark "howdy hospitality" keeps out-of-town families returning year after year. >> Read the Accessible Transcript The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly on Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected]. -30-

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?, Deputy City Secretary Ian Whittenton discusses the vital, behind-the-scenes role of the City Secretary’s Office in managing public records, election compliance, and voter registration. Whittenton also covers the upcoming Council 101 seminar on June 16, an educational program designed to prepare prospective candidates for the immense commitment and legal requirements of running for public office. The seminar is open to anyone curious about local government operations, not just serious candidates. The Mayor’s seat and City Council Places 1 and 2 will be on the ballot for the Nov. 3 general election. The filing period for candidacy is July 18 through Aug. 17. Candidates must be at least 18 years old, U.S. citizens, qualified Texas voters, and College Station residents for at least one year before Election Day. >> Read the Accessible Transcript The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available each week on Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?, Markeesha Watson and Katie Kamas of the Lincoln Recreation Center discuss the center's deep multi-generational roots and community impact, and how the LRC operates as a safe, family-like "home away from home" for all ages. Watson and Kamas also highlight the LRC’s active summer camp programs and upcoming Juneteenth celebrations, which will feature a morning Freedom Walk and an evening pavilion party with live zydeco music by Grammy-nominated artist Cedric Watson.  To get involved or register for programs, residents are encouraged to view the summer Recreation Connection Activity Guide, visit cstx.gov/parks, or stop by the facility on Eleanor Street. >> Read the Accessible Transcript The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly on Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected]. -30-

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?, Emergency Management Coordinator Lauren McGrath discusses seasonal weather preparedness for severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and extreme heat. She also clarifies common misconceptions — such as the danger of sheltering under highway overpasses — and explains the critical difference between a tornado watch and a warning. McGrath also emphasizes that the majority of her emergency management work happens before a disaster through proactive regional planning, training, and multi-jurisdictional collaboration. She urges residents to take charge of their own safety by building family emergency kits and ensuring they have multiple, redundant ways to receive weather alerts. >> Read the Accessible Transcript The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available each week on Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-    

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?, Animal Control Officer Hector Garcia discusses the multifaceted role his small, four-person unit plays in managing public safety and pet welfare. He emphasizes the life-saving impact of microchips and updated registration, sharing how these tools facilitate reunions even months after a pet goes missing. The interview also clarifies local ordinances, such as the requirement for rabies vaccinations and the city's leash law — which applies to both dogs and cats — while highlighting the department's dedication to supporting residents with education and essential pet supplies. >> Read the Accessible Transcript The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected]. -30-

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?, Recreation Supervisor Jeep Wentsch discusses the City’s packed schedule, anchored by the long-standing Starlight Music Series. Wentsch highlights the series as a free, community-focused event at the Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater, featuring the upcoming Journey/ZZ Top tribute (May 30) and Tejano music night (June 13). The conversation expands beyond the stage to explore various city programs, including summer camps, birding events at the Gary Halter Nature Center, rentable park pavilions, and the comprehensive Recreation Connection program guide. Wentsch also teases the upcoming I Heart America celebration on July 4, which promises to be the largest in city history to commemorate the nation's 250th anniversary. >> Read the Accessible Transcript The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected]. -30-

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?,” Code Enforcement Supervisor Tommy Shilling discusses best practices for student move-out season and his department's role in maintaining community health and safety. He encourages tenants to be proactive by reviewing leases and coordinating with property management to prevent neighborhood clutter during this high-volume transition. Shilling’s general advice for residents includes using the SeeClickFix app to report issues, following city ordinances regarding bulk trash and grass height, and ensuring proper parking to allow emergency vehicle access.  >> Read the Accessible Transcript The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected]. -30-

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?,” Jesse Dimeolo and Carl Ahrens from Planning and Development Services discuss the City’s ambitious Active Transportation Master Plan and break down how the City is balancing the needs of drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. They also talk about skateboarding to class, community rides with Darth Vader, and the surprising $12,000 annual savings that come with trading your car keys for a helmet.  >> Read the Accessible Transcript The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected]. -30-

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?,” Aquatics Supervisor Jessica Scott discusses the Tsunami swim team, swimming lessons for all ages, the critical importance of water safety and why a "watchdog" is the most important person at your next pool party. Adamson Lagoon and Cindy Hallaran Pool open for the season on May 23. Registration for summer programs and swim lessons begins May 4. For more information, call 979-764-3735.   >> Read the Accessible Transcript   The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?,” Solid Waste Division Manager Caroline Ask discusses the logistical and safety challenges of managing solid waste, essential guidelines for move-out season, and the dangers of improper hazardous waste disposal, especially pool chemicals and lithium-ion batteries. The spring Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event is Saturday, April 18, from 7 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Texas A&M University Services Building east of Veterans Parks and Athletic Complex.   >> Read the Accessible Transcript The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-  

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?,” Community Development Administrator David Brower and Analyst Raney Whitwell discuss how their department uses federal grants to provide essential resources and works closely with nonprofits and City departments to address critical needs. Residents are encouraged to take the HUD Grant Survey (available until April 15) to help determine how future grant funds should be allocated. Brower and Whitwell also share stories of how community development programs impact residents' lives—from helping a homeless high school senior graduate to funding infrastructure that ensures students have safe routes to school. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! Read the Accessible Transcript If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-    

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?,” Water Resource Coordinator Jennifer Nations discusses how she wishes residents would think about every drop of water, surprising water usage data, smart irrigation tips, and her lifelong affection for Snow White. You can sign up for weekly water recommendations and tips at Brazos Valley Water Smart to stay informed and save water. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?,” Recreation Supervisor Laurie Brown discusses Monarch March and the butterfly migration, the benefits of native plants, and how to create butterfly gardens and pollinator waystations. To celebrate the iconic butterfly, College Station Parks and Recreation invites the community to its annual Monarch March on Saturday, March 28, from 9 a.m.-noon at the Gary Halter Nature Center. The free, family-friendly, come-and-go event features educational booths, games and helpful tips for creating a waystation or butterfly garden at home. The “What’s Up, College Station?” podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email me at [email protected]. -30-  

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?,” Servicing and Events Coordinator Kelbi Coates of Visit College Station discusses the carnival-themed Meeting Planner Showcase on Tuesday, March 24, the joys of working Santa Claus conventions, and the perfection of Blue Bell’s oatmeal cream pie. The annual Meeting Planner Showcase at the Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center features over 40 local vendors, including florists and caterers, to help planners and the public connect with community resources for hosting events. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?,” Director of Public Works Emily Fisher discusses how the City manages solid waste, fleet, drainage and infrastructure – including hundreds of miles of streets, signage, and signals – and shares her passion for watching Formula 1 racing. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?,” Economic Development and Tourism Marketing Manager Angie Bertinot shares helpful tips for visitors, talks about the City’s role in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and highlights the much-anticipated Savannah Bananas show coming to Kyle Field on May 2. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?,” City Internal Auditor Ty Elliott talks about why potential cybersecurity threats keep him up at night and outlines his role in ensuring your local government spends tax dollars efficiently and transparently. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?" Municipal Court Judge Ed Spillane discusses the high rate of MIPs in Northgate, this month’s warrant amnesty period, and why a quick stop in court is better than a long day in jail.  The warrant amnesty period for the City of College Station and Brazos County is Feb. 9-27. If you have an outstanding warrant, you can avoid paying a $50 per-case warrant fee if you pay the fine in full. During the warrant roundup Feb. 28-March 8, city marshals, police officers, reserve police officers, and constables will arrest those who haven’t paid their fines. If the College Station Police Department issued your citation, you can check your warrant’s status at cstx.gov/warrants.  The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, feel free to email [email protected].  -30-

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?" Recreation Supervisor Jeep Wentsch discusses special Parks and Recreation events such as the Starlight Music Series and Food Truck Wednesdays, the joys of participating in summer youth camps, and the uncanny accuracy of “Parks and Recreation,” a TV classic.    The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week’s episode of "What's Up, College Station?" Capt. Stuart Marrs and Community Outreach Specialist Harlei Struck of the College Station Fire Department discuss their efforts to educate the community about fire safety and explain why running cool water over minor burns is more effective than using ice. Feb. 1-7 is National Burn Awareness Week, an initiative of the American Burn Association focused on reducing preventable burn injuries through education and community outreach. The “What’s Up, College Station?” podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email me at [email protected]. -30-  

In this week's "What's Up, College Station?" Economic Development Coordinator Stacey Vasquez discusses how College Station is changing, the positive role economic development plays in enhancing our quality of life, and why our community is so attractive to businesses and entrepreneurs. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week's "What's Up, College Station?" Lincoln Recreation Center Supervisor Markeesha Watson discusses Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, the history of the esteemed Lincoln Recreation Center, and its extensive range of programs and activities. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-  

In this week's "What's Up, College Station?" Energy Program Advisor Ethan Falcon of College Station Utilities shares ways to lower your electric bill, highlights CSU’s rebates and energy audits, and explains how “phantom energy” increases costs. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?,” Police Officer David Simmons discusses student move-in season, local crime trends, and the pros and cons of New Year’s resolutions. The “What’s Up, College Station?” podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email me at [email protected]. -30-  

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?", Senior Services Coordinator Kari Williamson joins Bobbie Lehrmann to discuss the City’s engaging lineup of programs and activities specifically designed for older adults and her passion for serving the senior community. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?", Capt. Stuart Marrs from the College Station Fire Department discusses the daily lives of firefighters, tips for keeping your family safe during the holidays, and how College Station has evolved over the years. Marrs is also known as "Stu the Fire Guy" and has appeared in many humorous safety videos. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?," Visit College Station Events Coordinator Sadie Martinez discusses how College Station is becoming a Christmas destination, the upcoming Howdy Holly-Days event, and why she still writes letters to Santa. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?," Recreation Manager Luis Perez gives a behind-the-scenes look at the Christmas in the Park event on Dec. 6 and why it has become one of College Station's most anticipated annual events. Christmas in the Park (6-10 p.m.) will again be preceded by the Jingle Bell Fun Run (3 p.m.) and the College Station Christmas Parade (4 p.m.). They are all part of what makes College Station a Christmas destination.  The “What’s Up, College Station?” podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected]. -30-  

By Colin Killian, Public Communications Director In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?," Recreation Supervisor Kohl Vega dives into the City’s youth basketball league, the need for volunteer coaches, and how sports participation teaches kids valuable life lessons. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?," Makenzie Kubacak of the Larry J. Ringer Library discusses how public libraries serve as community hubs through a wide array of programs and services for kids and adults. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-  

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?," Recruiter Priscilla Barcak discusses why the City of College Station is an outstanding place to work, how she finds and recruits skilled job candidates (especially veterans), and why she’d rather be chased by vampires than zombies. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?," University and Community Relations Manager Barbara Moore and Neighborhood and Community Relations Coordinator Taitelyn Morris-Wise discuss the ins and outs of the annual College Station Christmas Parade, outreach to off-campus students, and working with neighborhoods. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?," Emergency Management Coordinator Lauren McGrath discusses how the cities, county and Texas A&M work together to prepare for large-scale emergencies, the importance of building strong relationships, preparedness tips for residents, and how to stay informed.   The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected]. -30-

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?," Staff Planner Ashley Klein discusses the City’s long-range planning efforts, community engagement, nerding out, and the merits of largemouth bass.      The “What’s Up, College Station?” podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email me at [email protected]. -30-

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?," Municipal Court Judge Ed Spillane discusses the fall warrant amnesty period, the value of second chances, and the alarming rise of speeding and minor in possession (MIP) cases he’s seen in College Station.    The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-  

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?," Recreation Supervisor Laurie Brown from the Gary Halter Nature Center talks about local birding events and programs, conservation efforts, rare bird species spotted in College Station, and ways to get involved.  The “What’s Up, College Station?” podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email me at [email protected]. -30-  

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?," Human Resources Manager Marissa Harris talks about the City’s wide range of career opportunities, job application tips, benefits and wellness, and how HR helps City employees become effective community servants. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-  

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?," City Secretary Tanya Smith discusses National Voter Registration Day, the value of serving on City committees and boards, and the passion College Station residents have for their community. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-  

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?," Parks and Recreation’s Patrick Lewis discusses upcoming fall programs and activities, the virtues of being a Bird City, why delicious chicken wings matter, and crazy Cajun squirrels. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-  

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?," Lincoln Recreation Center Supervisor Markeesha Watson discusses the LRC's history and programs, the importance of reacting quickly in a crisis, the value of volunteerism, and why the first day of school was always her favorite. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-  

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?," Economic Development and Tourism Marketing Coordinator JohnConner Haverkamp discusses the impact of Aggie football game days, tips for visitors to the Heart of Aggieland, and the rigors of training with the Power Rangers. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week's special episode of "What's Up, College Station?," Director of Fiscal Services Mary Ellen Leonard discusses the City’s budget processes and priorities, factors impacting the proposed property tax rate, and why the Texas Comptroller says College Station is a trailblazer in financial transparency. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-  

In this week's special episode of "What's Up, College Station?," College Station Utilities Energy Programs Advisor Ethan Falcon discusses the best ways to trim your electric bills, including properly maintaining your AC, requesting a free energy audit, and taking advantage of CSU’s rebates for LED lighting, thermostats, and efficient air conditioners. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have comments or a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-  

In this week's special episode of "What's Up, College Station?," University and Community Relations Manager Barbara Moore discusses the many challenges of being a college town and how she works with Texas A&M to educate students about city codes and being a good neighbor. Moore has been with the City for nearly two decades. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?," long-time Water Resource Coordinator Jennifer Nations discusses regional water planning, her passion for ensuring quality drinking water, conservation, and why rainfall has little impact on the "dinosaur" water in our aquifer. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-  

In this week's special episode of "What's Up, College Station?," Code Enforcement Supervisor Tommy Shilling and Solid Waste Manager Caroline Ask talk about how college students can successfully navigate the upcoming move-in season, how to use the SeeClickFix app, and why life in College Station is better than in a big city.  The “What’s Up, College Station?” podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email me at [email protected]. -30-  

In this week's episode of "What's Up, College Station?", Assistant Parks and Recreation Director Gene Ballew discusses the meaning of Parks and Recreation Month, the department's shifting focus, and why Veterans Park and Athletic Complex is his favorite. A Marine Corps veteran, Ballew was elevated to assistant director earlier this year after 17 years with the City. The Brazos Valley Veterans Memorial at Veterans Park is commemorating its 25th anniversary on Thursday, July 17, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The event will include open house tours of the 12-acre memorial. The "What's Up, College Station?" podcast is available weekly via Podbean, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Apple, and Amazon/Audible. Please subscribe, rate, and recommend! If you have a suggestion for a future topic or interview, email [email protected].  -30-