City Cast Houston

If you don't know by now, we REALLY love Houston. So, today host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by City Cast Houston executive producer Laura Isensee, producer Carlignon Jones, and Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis to write a love letter to the city to explain why H-Town will always hold a special place in their hearts.  Learn more about the sponsors of this July 17th episode: Visit Port Aransas Jones Dairy Farm Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHoustonDon't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Food trucks are a great way to get a taste of our diverse and innovative culinary scene, but with so many to pick from, it can be overwhelming! So, host Raheel Ramzanali is talking to Sofia Gonzalez, food and travel editor at Houstonia Magazine, about which food trucks we need to check out!  Places we mentioned on today's show:  403 Eats Food Truck Park  Boat Basin Food Truck Park  Gourmandize Tacos Laguna  Our Favorite 25 Tacos in Houston Foreign Policy Food Truck Tacos Tierra Caliente  Cheaters Creamery  Mom's Kunafa  Latin Restaurant Weeks  Learn more about the sponsors of this July 16th episode:Visit Port AransasJones Dairy FarmLooking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHoustonDon't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts!Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mayor Whitmire and his administration just scrapped a planned bike lane in Montrose. So, host Raheel Ramzanali is talking to Dominic Anthony Walsh, reporter at Houston Public Media, about why this administration is taking out another bike lane, what the public response has been to this move, and what this means for other parts of the city.  Stories we talked about on today's show:  Montrose loses another planned bike lane as Houston Mayor John Whitmire preserves width of car lanes Houston Subreddit's thoughts on the scrapped bike lane Why Isn't Montrose More Walkable? Learn more about the sponsors of this July 15th episode: Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe | Houston Visit Port Aransas Jones Dairy Farm Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Photo: Brett Holmes via Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Houston is home to more than 1 million immigrants — and for many, the path to legal status is confusing, expensive, and painfully slow. Just ask our host Raheel Ramzanali — his family went through it. So on today's show, he talks with immigration attorney Zulfiqar Prasla to break down why the process is so broken and how it's impacting immigrants in our city. Dive deeper into today's topic: What we know (and don't know) about immigrants living in the Houston area without legal permission DOJ announces plans to prioritize cases to revoke citizenship Learn more about the sponsors of this July 14th episode: Visit Port Aransas A.D. Players Theater Contemporary Arts Museum Houston  Jones Dairy Farm Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's been an intense week of news here in Houston and Texas. Host Raheel Ramzanali and Evan Mintz, editor of opinion and community engagement for the Houston Chronicle, discuss how we can prevent future flooding tragedies in Texas. Plus, they talk about Governor Abbott's special session agenda and his viral quote about the floods and football. Then, it's a new meeting time for City Council, dress code reform and a crowded race for Harris County Judge. Oh, and of course they're ending the week with their moments of joy!  A previous version of this podcast incorrectly stated that none of the new candidates for Harris County Judge had experience winning a Democratic primary. Erica Lee Carter won the Democratic primary for the Harris County Department of Education board in 2012. She also won a 2024 special election to her late mother's congressional seat — she was not appointed. Stories we talked about on today's show:  Gov. Greg Abbott says asking hard questions about flood deaths is for 'losers.' He's wrong. | Opinion Gov. Abbott orders special session on Hill Country flooding, redistricting, THC and unfinished GOP priorities Green Ribbons for Camp Mystic. Plus, Calls for Flood Safety Measures Who Can Actually Hold CenterPoint Accountable for Beryl? Camp Mystic families are hurting enough. Stop the hate, hoaxes and rumors Houston council member Letitia Plummer launches bid for Lina Hidalgo's seat for Harris County judge Houston City Council will test out evening public comment periods to boost public participation These Houston politicians were denied entry to a nightclub. Now they want dress codes posted. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 11th episode: Downtown Houston+ Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe | Houston Visit Port Aransas A.D. Players Theater Contemporary Arts Museum Houston Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Photo: Robert Daemmrich Photography Inc/Corbis via Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

713 Day is coming up this weekend — July 13 named after Houston's OG area code. So, we're getting you ready with the best deals and events from Houston influencer ShawnTheFoodSheep! From block parties to drink specials, these recommendations will have you set to celebrate H-Town.  Recommendations from Shawn:  Meow Wolf x Saint Arnold Block Party  Lil Flip and Friends at Karbach  713 Day Fest at Wonky Power  713 Day at the Houston Food Bank  713 Day Adoption Event at the Houston Humane Society  Houston Dynamo 713 Day Mural Celebration  Pizaro's 713 Day Pizza Special  Houston Zoo $7.13 Tickets  Fielding's River Oaks  Christians Tailgate  Norigami Houston  Houston Astros 713 Day Game  Learn more about the sponsors of this July 10th episode: Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe | Houston Visit Port Aransas A.D. Players Theater Contemporary Arts Museum Houston Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on City Cast Houston, over 100 people have died from the Texas floods, raising questions if the scale of this tragedy could have been prevented. Host Raheel Ramzanali talks with columnist Chris Tomlinson about why he believes state leaders ignored warnings of worsening flood risks. Plus, former camper Rachel Kherkher shares what made Camp Mystic so magical —  and how she's trying to help uplift our community during this time of grief.  Houston ISD elementary school student Greta Toranzo dies in Camp Mystic floods, parents say Guadalupe River flood deaths were entirely preventable — but Texas officials ignored the warnings Learn more about the sponsors of this July 9th episode: Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe | Houston Visit Port Aransas A.D. Players Theater Contemporary Arts Museum Houston Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's been one year since Hurricane Beryl hit Houston and knocked out power for millions. In the aftermath, state leaders and local lawmakers blasted CenterPoint for multiple failures, from its outage tracker, to delayed power restoration, and generators that never turned on. But, did our leaders hold CenterPoint accountable? Host Raheel Ramzanali talks with Claire Hao, energy and power grid reporter at the Houston Chronicle, about the failure to deliver meaningful reform, the power company's plans, and why customers will have to pay more. Texas lawmakers failed to deliver on big CenterPoint reforms after Beryl: 'Band-Aids on bullet wounds' Texas leaders broke promises to hold CenterPoint accountable after Hurricane Beryl. Here are 5 takeaways. Seniors died at higher rates after Beryl, one calls days without power “scary” SB 231 Learn more about the sponsors of this July 8th episode: Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe | Houston Visit Port Aransas A.D. Players Theater Contemporary Arts Museum Houston Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Photo: Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Historic rainfall in the Texas Hill Country over the July Fourth weekend killed at least 67 people statewide. Some of the missing are from the Greater Houston area, including some young girls from the sleep-away camp, Camp Mystic. With state leaders promising a “relentless” search and federal assistance on the way, host Raheel Ramzanali and executive producer Laura Isensee talked on Sunday to bring you the latest on what we know and how to help.The latest on the historic flooding and stories we talked about:  Houston Chronicle's Live Coverage  Here's why the Texas Hill Country flood was much worse than anyone ever expected In Texas region prone to catastrophic floods, questions grow about lack of warning Making sense of the weather that led to a horrible Texas flooding tragedy What we know about the Camp Mystic girls still missing after devastating floods in Central Texas Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHoustonDon't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts!Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Raheel Ramzanali and all 12 other City Cast podcast hosts (from Austin, Boise, Chicago, DC, Denver, Las Vegas, Madison, Nashville, Philly, Pittsburgh, Portland, and Salt Lake City) compete head-to-head in a high-stakes showdown to answer the question that's been burning up our company-wide Slack for weeks: which city is the best for a summer weekend trip? From naked bike rides to ‘the country's best farmers market,' pickle festivals to Elvis impersonators driving pink convertibles, our hosts are bringing the best of the best of what their city has to offer. Did your city win? Take our interactive quiz to see which city best fits YOUR vibe! Learn more about the sponsors of this July 3rd episode: Downtown Houston+ Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe | Houston Visit Port Aransas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Houston's barbecue joints keep winning awards, but with so many places to visit, it can be overwhelming. So, host Raheel Ramzanali is calling on Patrick Feges, co-owner and pitmaster of Feges BBQ, for his top picks from Houston's barbecue scene, from brisket to fusion.  Don't miss our 713 Day Pre-Party at Saint Arnold Brewing on July 10 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. This event is free, but please RSVP here. Check out all of the recommendations from today's show: Truth BBQ Corkscrew BBQ  Gatlin's Pinkerton's Tejas Chocolate & Barbecue Blood Bros BBQ Bar-A-BBQ Roegel's Barbecue Ray's BBQ  Khói Barbecue JQ's TexMex BBQ Feges Fainmous Killen's Learn more about the sponsors of this July 2nd episode: Downtown Houston+ Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe | Houston Visit Port Aransas Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It may be hot and sticky outside, but that doesn't mean we can't make this month the best July ever in H-Town! Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis and producer Carlignon Jones to give you insider recommendations on the best ways to stay cool, where to take out-of-town guests, and of course, where to eat!  Want more great food recommendations? Check out our guide to the hottest restaurants in Montrose right now!  Places we talked about on today's show:  What to do for the Fourth of July  City Cast Houston's 713 Day Pre-Party Surf Lessons in Surfside, TX  Hotel Lucine in Galveston, TX  Just Ride Watercrafts  Lotería Game Night | Inspired by the MFAH Art Collections Kidpendence Day Party Puppy Palooza Party Rock the Dock at the Kemah Boardwalk  Mango Lassi at Aga's  Hawaiian Shaved Ice at Happy Go Lucky  Gringo's Margarita Summer Specials  Learn more about the sponsors of this July 1st episode: Downtown Houston+ Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe | Houston Visit Port Aransas Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Photo: Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A new investigation in the Houston Chronicle found that Houston police called ICE on woman after she called 911 for domestic abuse. So, is HPD working with ICE despite Mayor Whitmire saying they aren't?  Host Raheel Ramzanali talks with Sam González Kelly, one of the Houston Chronicle reporters on that investigation, and Maria Espinosa of FIEL, the largest immigrant-led civil rights organization in Texas, to answer that question, and how this case could put more immigrants and all Houstonians at risk.  Stories we talked about on today's show:  ⁠She called 911 to report domestic abuse. Then Houston police called ICE on her.⁠ ⁠Homicides down 6% in Houston, but family violence a growing issue, records show⁠ ⁠Harris County's New District Attorney Has Big Plans⁠ ⁠Learn more about FIEL ⁠ Join the City Cast Houston team for our Pre-713 Day Celebration at Saint Arnold Brewing on July 10th from 5:30-7:30 p.m. This event is free, but please RSVP ⁠here⁠. Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter ⁠Hey Houston⁠  Follow us on ⁠Instagram ⁠ @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have ⁠feedback or a show idea⁠? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? ⁠Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Friday so we're breaking down the biggest news in H-Town. Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by Faith Bugenhagen, trending news reporter at Chron.com, and Maggie Gordon, senior storytelling editor at Straight Arrow News, to talk about the next steps in the THC ban after Governor Abbott vetoed Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick's bill, the rise in deaths at Harris County Jail, why your recycling isn't getting picked up, and more!  Stories we talked about on today's show:  Dan Patrick blasts Abbott over surprise THC veto: He 'wants to legalize' it. Three Harris County Jail inmates die within 48-hour span, marking 10 in-custody deaths in 2025 Harris County's New District Attorney Has Big Plans Houston residents frustrated as recycling pickup delays stretch over month Video of man jumping from the second floor of the Galleria  Man hospitalized after jumping from second story of Galleria onto ice rink while evading police Volunteer at the Houston Food Bank  What are you willing to pay for Beyoncé's 'Cowboy Carter' concert? Ticketmaster prices rise to $8k for a front row seat Why We Honor DJ Screw Day On June 27 Screwfest 2025 Learn more about Straight Arrow News  Learn more about the sponsors of this June 27th episode: Visit Navasota Jones Dairy Farm Downtown Houston+ A.D. Players Theater Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Photo: Robert Daemmrich Photography Inc/Corbis via Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Beyonce weekend here in H-Town as Queen B takes over NRG for her Cowboy Carter tour. So, Host Raheel Ramzanali is talking to Dr. Alicia Odewale, National Geographic MasterClass professor, about how Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter album spotlights Black cowboy culture and how we can celebrate it in Houston.  Learn more about the sponsors of this June 26th episode: Visit Navasota Jones Dairy Farm A.D. Players Theater Dive deeper with these resources recommended by Dr. Odewale:  Dr. Odewale's MasterClass  Black Cowboys in the American West: On the Range, on the Stage, behind the Badge  The Black West: A Documentary and Pictorial History of the African American Role in the Westward Expansion of the United States Black Cowboys of the Old West: True, Sensational, And Little-Known Stories From History African American Women of the Old West The Black Cowboy Museum and Hall of Fame in Rosenberg, TX Black Heritage Day at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Raheel Ramzanali is hanging out with his friend Eric Sandler, editor of CultureMap Houston, talking about all of the big food news in Houston. From throwing shade at the cost of fajitas to discussing the true impact of food awards, Raheel and Eric are talking about it all. Plus, their favorite summer foods and a new restaurant from an OG Houston chef you have to try.  Places and stories we talked about on today's show:  The Problem With BBQ, Fast Food Is Changing & Chinese Tamales Texas Monthly's BBQ Snob dishes on the magazine's new top 50 list Award-winning Houston chef reemerges with new Memorial restaurant Innovative Houston chef is the city's newest James Beard Award winner HoneyChild's Sweet Creams  Underground Creamery  Cloud 10 Creamery  Join the City Cast Houston team for our Pre-713 Day Celebration at Saint Arnold Brewing on July 10th from 5:30-7:30 p.m.. This event is free, but please RSVP here. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 25th episode: Visit Navasota Jones Dairy Farm A.D. Players Theater Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Since the 1970s, Montrose has been Houston's neighborhood for artists, musicians, bohemians, and so much more. Basically, it's the cool neighborhood. But, with rent going up and more upscale boutiques, is Montrose still MONTROSE? Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by Quinn Bishop, co-owner of Cactus Music, and executive producer Laura Isensee to talk about how Montrose became the heart of Houston's counter culture, when they noticed the area changing, and how to keep the Montrose spirit alive.  Stories we talked about on today's show:  Montrose Is Dead. Long Live Montrose? Revisiting Montrose, Houston's Evolving Urban Paradise Cactus Music Turns 50 This Year Luxury condo project The Madison announced for West Gray Street Learn more about the sponsors of this June 24th episode: Visit Navasota Jones Dairy Farm A.D. Players Theater Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Earlier this month, former Houston Mayor Annise Parker announced she's running for Harris County Judge in 2026. And today she's sitting down with host Raheel Ramzanali to talk about why she's getting back into local politics. They discuss where Parker thinks Harris County has fallen short, if she's talked to incumbent Lina Hidalgo, and how she would address challenges like flooding and affordable housing. Dive deeper into Parker's campaign and the issues we talked about on today's show: Former Houston Mayor Annise Parker announces run for Lina Hidalgo's seat atop Harris County government Houston survey finds diversity is top draw, but crime and traffic worry residents A Look Back At The Parker Years Learn more about the sponsors of this June 23rd episode: Visit Navasota Jones Dairy Farm Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe | Houston A.D. Players Theater Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

City Cast hosts are on the pulse of what's happening in our communities. So Raheel Ramzanali and all 12 other hosts sat down with City Cast CEO David Plotz to talk about creative local problem solving that might work in your hometown too and to commiserate about stressors affecting most of our cities, from unaffordable housing to bike lanes. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 20th episode: Comicpalooza Visit Port Aransas Arts District Houston Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Downtown Houston+ Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe | Houston Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Montrose is home to some of the hottest restaurants and bars in H-town. Whether you're planning a fancy dinner or a weekend brunch or a night of cocktails in between, host Raheel Ramzanali is getting recommendations from Emma Balter, senior editor at Texas Monthly. Plus, they dig into some delicious bites at ChòpnBlọk! Places and stories we mentioned on today's show:  ⁠Black Hole Coffee Shop⁠ ⁠ChopnBlok⁠  ⁠How Chemical Salesman Ope Amosu Became One of Htx's Hottest Chefs⁠ ⁠Hugo's ⁠ ⁠Rosie Cannonball ⁠ ⁠Nobie's⁠  ⁠Mala Sichuan Bistro ⁠ ⁠La Guadalupana ⁠ ⁠Uchi⁠  ⁠Montrose Cheese & Wine ⁠ ⁠West Alabama Ice House ⁠ ⁠The Toasted Coconut ⁠ ⁠JR's Bar⁠ ⁠George's Country Bar ⁠ ⁠Anvil⁠ Learn more about the sponsors of this June 18th episode: ⁠Comicpalooza⁠ ⁠Visit Port Aransas⁠ ⁠Arts District Houston⁠ ⁠Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe | Houston⁠ ⁠Babbel⁠ - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on City Cast Houston, host Raheel Ramzanali talks with Faith Bugenhagen, trending news reporter at Chron.com, about the new contract and big raise for HISD's state-appointed superintendent Mike Miles. And, you better slow down on Interstate 45 and U.S. 59 because Houston police are cracking down on speeding and reckless driving. Plus, Houstonians vent their frustrations about The Galleria, a recap of the No Kings protest, and more!  Stories we talked about on today's show:  ‘No Kings' protests: Thousands gather throughout Houston area to oppose Trump administration State Rep. Tony Gonzalez's letter on immigration Texas A&M Corps of Cadets participates in Army's 250th military parade HISD Superintendent Mike Miles gets $82,000 raise as part of 5-year contract extension Houston ISD's state-appointed board unanimously approves $2.1 billion budget Houston mayor announces new traffic enforcement initiative along I-45 and I-69/U.S. 59 The Unwritten Rules of the Road in Houston The Galleria named second-best mall in US, report says Fox 26's Instagram post on the Galleria  Houston Housing Authority cited over a dozen cases in a legal brief. Almost none of the quotes exist. Juneteenth events  Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Photo: Jeff Kowalsky AFP via Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buying a whole-home generator has become a trend in Houston, especially after multiple power outages during Hurricane Beryl and other disasters. Today on City Cast Houston, host Raheel Ramzanali is talking with Texas Monthly's senior writer Michael Hardy about why he installed one for his Heights home, what he learned along the way, and why Houston has a growing “generator divide.” Read more about Michael's experience and dive into more resources here: We're Not Relying on the Texas Power Grid This Summer Consumer Reports' Generator Buying Guide How to prepare for a power outage So you lost power. Here's how to survive the day without electricity. Harris County Emergency Preparedness Learn more about the sponsors of this June 16th episode: Comicpalooza Visit Port Aransas Arts District Houston Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe | Houston Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Friday so we're recapping the week that was in Houston. Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by attorney and education advocate Monica Flores Richart and political commentator Rafael Lemaitre to talk about Texas Under Trump with a look the latest methods ICE is using to detain undocumented residents, how politicians are creating fear ahead of this weekend's protests, and more. Plus, they're breaking down former Mayor Annise Parker's big announcement to run for Harris County Judge and why three teenagers were arrested at the Astrodome.  Stories we talked about on today's show:  ICE detains multiple men at Houston immigration courthouse, civil rights organization says ‘No Kings' protest: Houston-area law enforcement agencies prepare for Saturday rallies Trump says he plans to phase out FEMA after 2025 hurricane season How Bad Will This Hurricane Season Be? Former Houston Mayor Annise Parker plans to run for Lina Hidalgo's Harris County judge seat Can VP Harris Turn Texas Blue? Deputies arrest three teens accused of sneaking into dormant Astrodome days after urban explorer videos Las Perras Cafe in EaDo  Learn more about the sponsors of this June 13th episode: Comicpalooza Jones Dairy Farm Visit Uvalde County A.D. Players Theater Downtown Houston+ Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Photo by Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Houston isn't just about the Loop — the city stretches deep into the suburbs. But which one is the best? We're settling that debate with a good old-fashioned suburb showdown. Host Raheel Ramzanali is repping his beloved Richmond. Meagan Clanahan, co-owner of HoustonMoms.com, is making the case for one of our OG suburbs, Katy. And longtime Pearland resident Phil Jacob, executive director at The Buckingham, is standing up for his turf. And our judge? Producer Carlignon Jones, who just might be ready to leave H-Town proper. Places we talked about on today's show:  Pearland, Sugar Land among 8 Texas towns on U.S News' list of the best places to live A Houston Moms Guide to Katy Asian Town Pearland Town Center events  Richmond Downtown events  Learn more about the sponsors of this June 12th episode: Comicpalooza Jones Dairy Farm Visit Uvalde County A.D. Players Theater Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nothing says summer like chilling in the shade with a cold margarita. And with those hot summer days coming, we're giving you the best margaritas to enjoy around H-Town! Producer Carlignon Jones is getting recommendations from Sofia Gonzalez, food and travel editor at Houstonia Magazine. From frozen to on the rocks, this episode will get you ready to soak up everything Houston's margarita scene has to offer. This episode originally aired Aug. 21, 2024. Check out these recommendations from today's episode: Get Your Margarita Fix at These Houston Spots Pistoleros Tequila and Taco Bar  Pico's Ninfa's El Tiempo Hugo's La Lucha Gringo's Tex-Mex Candente Winnie's El Patio Learn more about the sponsors of this June 11th episode: Comicpalooza Jones Dairy Farm Visit Uvalde County A.D. Players Theater Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Montrose has so much to offer from restaurants and bars to museums and local shops. But it's actually hard to walk around what should be one of Houston's most walkable neighborhoods. A project to overhaul Montrose Boulevard was supposed to help fix that — until Mayor John Whitmire stepped in. Host Raheel Ramzanali talks with Houston Public Media's Dominic Anthony Walsh about why the project got political and what it means for folks in Montrose and other Houston neighborhoods. Stories we talked about on today's show:  Mayor Whitmire completes overhaul of Montrose TIRZ board after disagreement on redesign Contentious Montrose Boulevard project in Houston draws protest ahead of construction Rebuilding Montrose isn't about trees. It's about time. (Opinion) Protesters outnumber contractors as Montrose Boulevard overhaul gets underway Learn more about the sponsors of this June 10th episode: Comicpalooza Jones Dairy Farm Visit Uvalde County A.D. Players Theater Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Photo: Brooke Lewis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's been almost four years since 10 people died and hundreds of others were hurt at the Astroworld Festival, and now Netflix is releasing a new documentary, Trainwreck: the Astroworld Tragedy, explaining how this tragic event could've been avoided. Host Raheel Ramzanali is breaking it down with Jose Partida, an Astroworld concertgoer, and Zach Despart, journalist at the Texas Tribune who was part of the Houston Chronicle's award-winning coverage of the event.  Stories we talked about on today's show:  No Escape Plan: How missed warning signs at Travis Scott's Astroworld Festival led to one of the worst U.S. concert tragedies Trainwreck: The Astroworld Tragedy Learn more about the sponsors of this June 9th episode: Comicpalooza Jones Dairy Farm Visit Uvalde County A.D. Players Theater Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Friday so we're breaking down the biggest stories of the week that impacted YOU. Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by Abby Church, city hall reporter at the Houston Chronicle, and Pulitzer Prize finalist Evan Mintz to talk about the drama surrounding Mayor Whitmire's budget passing, the extension of the state's takeover of HISD, big takeaways from the 89th State Legislature, and some big career news for Evan!  Stories we talked about on today's show:  ⁠High-tension Houston City Council meeting ends with greenlight of Mayor John Whitmire's $7B budget⁠ ⁠Whitmire supports Texas bill that would reverse some Houston pension reforms, alarming experts⁠ ⁠Chris Newport, Houston Mayor John Whitmire's chief of staff, to leave administration⁠ ⁠Houston ISD takeover by state will continue through 2027, TEA announces⁠ ⁠Key bills that passed and failed in the Texas Legislature⁠ ⁠Will Housing in Houston Ever Be Affordable Again?⁠ ⁠Evan Mintz named Houston Chronicle editor of Opinion and Community Engagement⁠ Learn more about the sponsors of this June 6th episode: ⁠Comicpalooza⁠ ⁠Arts District Houston⁠ ⁠Visit Port Aransas⁠ ⁠Contemporary Arts Museum Houston⁠ ⁠Downtown Houston+⁠ Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter ⁠Hey Houston⁠  Follow us on ⁠Instagram ⁠ @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have ⁠feedback or a show idea⁠? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? ⁠Let's Talk!⁠ Photo: Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You don't have to spend money to have a good time in H-Town! Host Raheel Ramzanali is talking to Houston content creator Shawn the Food Sheep about the best free things to do this summer in Houston. From world-class art to free concerts, Shawn's recommendations will help you plan the perfect free day for families, friends, and even your significant other! Places we talked about on today's show:  Coffee and Cars at POST  Camden Park  Second Saturday at Sawyer Yards  Contemporary Arts Museum Houston  Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Free Concerts  Miller Outdoor Theatre Schedule Japanese Gardens Asia Society Texas  The Menil Collection  Follow Shawn the Food Sheep on Instagram Learn more about the sponsors of this June 5th episode: Comicpalooza Arts District Houston Visit Port Aransas Contemporary Arts Museum Houston Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're talking food with Chron.com's food reporter Erica Cheng! First, host Raheel Ramzanali and Erica have some hot takes regarding the Texas Monthly Top 50 BBQ Joints list and bbq in general. Then, is Chick-Fil-A about to change the way we consume fast food? Plus, Erica explains what a Chinese tamale is! Stories and places we talked about today:  ⁠⁠Eight Houston-area barbecue restaurants make Texas Monthly's top 50 list for 2025⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Drive-thru-only Chick-Fil-A heads to busy Houston neighborhood⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Hong Kong's Cafe⁠⁠ If you enjoyed today's interview with Contemporary Arts Museum Houston's Teen Council and Tour Program Coordinator, Jack Morillo, ⁠⁠learn more here⁠⁠. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 4th episode: ⁠⁠Comicpalooza⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Arts District Houston⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Visit Port Aransas⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Contemporary Arts Museum Houston⁠⁠ Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter ⁠⁠Hey Houston⁠⁠ Follow us on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠ @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have ⁠⁠feedback or a show idea⁠⁠? Let us know! Interested in advertising with City Cast? ⁠⁠Let's Talk!⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Montrose is arguably the coolest neighborhood in Houston, and today we have the popular Montrose meme account, @montrosecellectuals, giving us a guide to the perfect and wildest day in Montrose. Help us grow the show by sharing this episode with three of your friends who live in, or LOVE, Montrose because we'll be focusing on the neighborhood once a week throughout June. ⁠Follow @Montrosecellectuals ⁠ ⁠Black Hole Coffee House⁠ ⁠The Menil Collection⁠ ⁠Catbirds Bar⁠ ⁠Rivas Italian Restaurant⁠ ⁠Numbers⁠ ⁠93 Til⁠ ⁠Soundwaves⁠ ⁠George Country Sports Bar⁠ ⁠The Magick Cauldron⁠ ⁠Kenneally's Irish Pub⁠ ⁠Red Lion Houston⁠ ⁠The Phoenix on Westheimer⁠ ⁠AvantGarden⁠ Learn more about the sponsors of this June 3rd episode: ⁠Comicpalooza⁠ ⁠Arts District Houston⁠ ⁠Visit Port Aransas⁠ ⁠Contemporary Arts Museum Houston⁠ Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter ⁠Hey Houston⁠  Follow us on ⁠Instagram ⁠ @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have ⁠feedback or a show idea⁠? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? ⁠Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hurricane season is officially underway, and we're getting a hype-free preview of what to expect from Space City Weather's Matt Lanza.  He joins host Raheel Ramzanali about NOAA's official forecast, what lessons we learned from Hurricane Beryl, and how you can prepare. Stories we talked about on today's show:  With calm Houston weather, we take a very early look at hurricane season NOAA predicts 2025 Atlantic hurricane season will be ‘above normal' Tips To Get You Hurricane Ready in Houston Learn more about the sponsors of this June 2nd episode: Comicpalooza Fresh Arts Visit Port Aransas Contemporary Arts Museum Houston Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Friday so host Raheel Ramzanali is breaking down the big stories of the week in H-Town. Today, he's joined by ABC-13's Pooja Lodhia to talk about her story on a mail theft ring that was busted this week and why victims can't find out if their identity was stolen. They also have the latest on a lawsuit that could derail Houston's budget and share good news with more neighborhood pools opening this summer. Plus, why our Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick is throwing TCH products at reporters!  Stories we talked about on today's show:  Mental Health of America of Greater Houston Texas Ren Fest king's cause of death revealed by authorities Texas Senate passes THC ban bill as Lt. Gov. Patrick raises mental health concerns Worst States For Drunk Driving In 2025 Mayor John Whitmire's drainage settlement should be rejected, advocacy group tells judge 42 credit and debit cards, over a dozen stolen checks found in mail theft ring bust, records show Houston to open most public pools this summer, boosts lifeguard hiring with pay and age change Could Houston solve the lifeguard shortage and open more city pools by hiring 15-year-olds? Former FOX 26 Houston anchor José Griñán has died Ocean Vuong's latest novel explores unlikely friendships and families formed among fast-food workers Learn more about the sponsors of this May 30th episode: Texas Monthly Taco Fest Comicpalooza Bandera County Convention & Visitors Bureau Downtown Houston+ Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Photo: Chris Valdez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

June is filled with big events, moments to reflect, and delicious meals for dad. So host Raheel Ramzanali is bringing on executive producer Laura Isensee and Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis to help you make the most of June in Houston. Want even more delicious spots to eat at around Houston? Check out our ⁠the top brunch spots in Houston right now!⁠ Places we talked about on today's show:  ⁠Galveston Island Revue Weekend⁠ ⁠A Juneteenth Conversation: With the Family of George Floyd⁠ ⁠Pride Chorus Houston: ⁠⁠True Colors⁠ ⁠Beyoncé Endorsed Frenchy's Fried Chicken During Her Most Recent Visit to Houston⁠ Vintage shopping at ⁠Buffalo Exchange⁠, ⁠Charity Guild⁠, ⁠Value Village⁠, ⁠Goodwill⁠, or ⁠Leopard Lounge⁠ ⁠Get To Know Houston, Texas Through Beyoncé's Eyes: Her Favorite Restaurants, Childhood Spots, and More⁠ ⁠Medium Rare⁠ ⁠Gatlin's BBQ ⁠ ⁠Brennan's of Houston ⁠ Learn more about the sponsors of this May 29th episode: ⁠Texas Monthly Taco Fest⁠ ⁠Comicpalooza⁠ ⁠Bandera County Convention & Visitors Bureau⁠ Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter ⁠Hey Houston⁠  Follow us on ⁠Instagram ⁠ @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have ⁠feedback or a show idea⁠? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? ⁠Let's Talk!⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Houston's brunch scene is one of the best in the nation, from chicken and waffles to dim sum and everything in between. But with so many standout spots, choosing the perfect spot for your brunch plans can be overwhelming. That's why host Raheel Ramzanali is teaming up with Bao Ong, the Houston Chronicle's restaurant critic, to round up the top brunch experiences around H-town. Whether you're looking for party vibes, a decadent Mexican meal, or a classic buffet, they've got you covered! Places we talked about on today's show:  The Pit Room Flora Houston Xalisko Lucille's  Barnaby Cafe Hugo's  Mia's Table Chapman and Kirby Montrose Country Club Bar Boheme  Squable Cuchara  Aga's  The Marigold Club Silk Road  Ocean Palace  Fung's Kitchen Forget Me Not  Kamp Honey Hole Learn more about the sponsors of this May 28th episode: Texas Monthly Taco Fest Comicpalooza Bandera County Convention & Visitors Bureau Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During his presidential campaign, President Trump vowed to crack down on illegal immigration and deport violent criminals. But how is the crackdown actually playing out in Houston? Host Raheel Ramzanali talks with award-winning immigration reporter Anna-Cat Brigida about how some regular Houstonians are getting their visas revoked, detained in ICE raids, and more.  ICE says it deported more than 500 people in the Houston area in one week University of Houston assistant professor preparing to leave country after ‘unexpected termination' of visa Coming home: Erik Payán returns to his family after a month in detention Houston families left in limbo after Biden program for spouses of US citizens halted U.S. Citizens twice as likely to be charged with crime in Harris County, data shows Learn more about the sponsors of this May 27th episode:Texas Monthly Taco FestComicpaloozaBandera County Convention & Visitors BureauLooking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHoustonDon't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts!Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Photo Credit: Sharon Steinmann/Houston Chronicle via Getty Image Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Friday so we're breaking down the biggest stories from the week. Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by Lucio Vasquez, breaking news reporter at The Texas Newsroom, and executive producer Laura Isensee to talk about the future of the Texas Renaissance Festival after its founder died this week. Plus, Houston's growing income inequality and the legacy of George Floyd. And don't miss our moments of joy!   Stories we talked about on today's show:  ⁠George Coulam, controversial founder of Texas Renaissance Festival, found dead in Grimes County⁠ ⁠Kinder Houston Area Survey: 2025 Results ⁠ ⁠Houston cultural landmark quietly turned to rubble, sparking local outcry⁠ ⁠What a 10-minute call with George Floyd's family reveals about the meaning of May 25⁠ ⁠George Floyd-inspired festival to be held in Houston five years after his murder⁠ ⁠His Name Is George Floyd (Pulitzer Prize Winner)⁠ ⁠Views of Race, Policing and Black Lives Matter in the 5 Years Since George Floyd's Killing⁠ ⁠Houston nonprofit devoted to homeless youth unveils new $55 million campus⁠ ⁠Tilman Fertitta, Mayor John Whitmire, first lady Cecilia Abbott award 66 wheelchair accessible vans⁠ If you enjoyed today's interview with The Village School's Enrollment Officer, Cassie Riddle, ⁠learn more here⁠. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 23rd episode: ⁠Contemporary Arts Museum Houston⁠ ⁠Texas Monthly Taco Fest⁠ ⁠Buffalo Bayou Partnership⁠ ⁠Visit Boerne⁠ ⁠Comicpalooza⁠ Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter ⁠Hey Houston⁠  Follow us on ⁠Instagram ⁠ @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have ⁠feedback or a show idea⁠? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? ⁠Let's Talk!⁠ Photo: Melissa Phillip/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you're planning a quick one-hour trip or a long-haul adventure, Houston offers plenty of great road trip options. So, host Raheel Ramzanali is teaming up with Sofia Gonzalez, Houstonia Magazine's travel editor, to share their top picks for the best road trips to take this Memorial Day weekend, or anytime this summer with your friends, family, special someone — or even solo!  Check out all our recommendations here: Galveston Surfside Blue Coast Highway Drive The Pearl in San Antonio  Mi Tierra y Panadería The San Antonio Riverwalk San Marcos New Braunfels Big Bend National Park Hike Smart Gulf Shores, Alabama Check out Sofia's work in Houstonia Magazine  If you enjoyed today's interview with Contemporary Arts Museum Houston's Teen Council and Tour Program Coordinator, Jack Morillo, learn more here. Jack Morillo: Teen Council and Tour Program Coordinator  Learn more about the sponsors of this May 22nd episode: Contemporary Arts Museum Houston Texas Monthly Taco Fest Buffalo Bayou Partnership Visit Boerne Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There was a time when host Raheel Ramzanali celebrated every birthday at Whataburger with a patty melt. But now, as the Texas legend marks its 75th anniversary, he swears it's just not the same. So, he's talking to Omar Gallaga, an independent Texas-based writer, about whether Whataburger has changed since it was bought by a Chicago company in 2019 and went national. Plus, we'll hear from some loyal fans and their favorite memories.  Stories we talked about on today's show:  What happened to Whataburger? Whataburger brings back two menu favorites for its 75th anniversary celebration The Texanist: How Can Whataburger Say That It's Still “Family Owned and Operated”? Learn more about the sponsors of this May 21st episode: Contemporary Arts Museum Houston Texas Monthly Taco Fest Buffalo Bayou Partnership Visit Boerne Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The annual Kinder Houston area survey is out so host Raheel Ramzanali is breaking down some of the interesting takeaways on how Houstonians are feeling with ABC-13 reporter Shannon Ryan. Plus, what's the latest with Mayor Whitmire's proposed budget and what services will be impacted if it passes? And, we learn what a popular former HISD principal is up to during “Only in H-Town”!  Stories we talked about on today's show:  Houston's budget and voters' changing attitudes Houston parks department ‘hit pretty hard' by cuts under proposed budget for FY 2026 Kinder Houston Area Survey Former Houston principal looking for love in '90 Day Fiance' spinoff Learn more about the sponsors of this May 20th episode: Contemporary Arts Museum Houston Texas Monthly Taco Fest Buffalo Bayou Partnership Visit Boerne Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Photo: Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Houston has long prided itself on being an affordable place to live, for both homeowners and renters. But that reputation is starting to slip. As more people move to the city, housing supply hasn't kept up. And prices in traditionally working-class neighborhoods are skyrocketing. So, host Raheel Ramzanali is talking to City Cast Houston contributor Evan Mintz about how we got here, what Houstonians can do to slow rising costs, and if state lawmakers might actually do something to fix our housing affordability crisis. Soaring home values threaten to displace Houston's blue-collar homeowners and renters Could Empty Office Buildings Offer a Real Housing Solution? Commercial-to-Residential Conversion Bill - SB 2477 Staircase Bill - SB 2835 Third-Party Review Bill - SB 1450 Texans for Reasonable Solutions Texans for Housing Learn more about the sponsors of this May 19th episode: Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe | Houston - Save 40% from May 9-26 when booking summer travel! Contemporary Arts Museum Houston Texas Monthly Taco Fest Buffalo Bayou Partnership Visit Boerne Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Friday so host Raheel Ramzanali is breaking down the big stories of the week with some of our brightest journalists in the city. Joining Raheel today is Houston Chronicle's Texas government reporter Isaac Yu to explain why state lawmakers might scrap the STAAR testing — and what would come next — and the latest with the state takeover of HISD. Plus, we get an update on how Galveston officials plan to keep Bolivar's wild Jeep Weekend under control.  Stories we talked about on today's show:  Texas lawmakers propose scrapping the STAAR test in favor of three much shorter exams State intervention: Morath reflects on academic progress and future changes at HISD Parents slam cosmetic clean-up ahead of Texas Education chief's visit to HISD Texas lawmakers agree on $8B school funding package with teacher raises ‘Jeep Weekend' beach restrictions for 2025 approved by Galveston County commissioners Galveston may be the Houston region's biggest buyer's market as a wave of Airbnbs floods listings Local Democrats eyeing to end 'Cruz Curse' with banning of senator Learn more about the sponsors of this May 16th episode: Downtown Houston+ Stages Prolonlife.com/city - Use this link for 15% off Buffalo Bayou Partnership Visit Port Aransas Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  @CityCastHouston Don't have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let's Talk! Photo: Melissa Phillip/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices