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66 episodes with Houston City Council
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6 episodes with Houston City Council
7 episodes with Houston City Council
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2 episodes with Houston City Council
2 episodes with Houston City Council
2 episodes with Houston City Council
On Wednesday's show: The U.S. House has approved ICE and border patrol money. Houston City Council is poised to vote on the mayor's budget. And Senate candidate and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is investigating FIFA over World Cup tickets. We discuss those and other developments in politics in our weekly roundup.Also this hour: Estate sales draw collectors, bargain hunters, second-hand sellers, and curious neighbors. We learn more about them and what happens behind the scenes to prepare for them from Michael Dentel, owner of the Houston-based Elite Estate Sales.And Texas-based writer Lauren Hough shares insights from traveling the country in her van -- and how bringing her dog helped facilitate conversations she might never have had along the way. She recounts those stories in her latest book, Monster of a Land, which she will discuss at an event at Brazos Bookstore on June 18.Watch
On Monday's show: Early voting begins today and runs through May 22 in the runoffs for the Texas primary races. We discuss that and Joe Panzarella's victory in a special election runoff to fill the District C position on the Houston City Council with Mark Jones, political science fellow at Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy.Also this hour: Sidewalks are a part of public infrastructure that could easily be overlooked. But, according to a new book, sidewalks are at the core of numerous major debates. Michael Pollack discusses his book, Sidewalk Nation, which features a chapter about Houston.Then, veterinarian Dr. Lori Teller answers listener questions about their pets.And we discuss Jose Altuve's injury and the Astros' weekend series win over the Texas Rangers with Jeff Balke of the Bleav in Astros podcast, then discuss the Texans' 2026 schedule with Houston Chronicle NFL and Texans reporter Jonathan Alexander.Watch
On Thursday's show: After repeated delays, Houston City Council has approved an ordinance cracking down on apartment complexes with chronic health and safety violations. We learn what the ordinance does and get reaction from a local low-income housing advocacy group.Also this hour: We preview the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season and discuss how accurately hurricane forecasts often end up playing out in reality here in Greater Houston.Then, on a new installment of The Bigger Picture, we learn about Tourette syndrome and I Swear, a documentary about the condition which just wrapped up a short theatrical run here in town.And we preview this weekend's Houston debut of Panda Fest, a large outdoor Asian food and culture festival, taking place at The Water Works in Buffalo Bayou Park.Watch
Civil rights groups say the Houston City Council has caved to threats from Gov. Greg Abbott. We'll hear more on the city's decision to amend an ordinance limiting local law enforcement cooperation with ICE agents.The latest frontier in the politics of energy: Andy Uhler on rising electricity demand statewide and the challenge convincing some rural […] The post Dallasite David Lowery talks new film ‘Mother Mary' appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.
On Thursday's show: In a 13-4 vote, the Houston City Council revised a measure intended to limit the police department's coordination with federal immigration enforcement. We learn what has changed about the ordiance directing how HPD officers should interact with ICE agents.And we contemplate whom the Texans might select in today's NFL draft.Also this hour: We discuss Discovery Sands, a controversial development project that would neighbor Jamaica Beach on the island's west end.Then, we learn about distilleries here in Houston.And we talk with a couple members of the Grammy-winning vocal ensemble Chanticleer ahead of an April 28 performance celebrating America's 250th year of independence.Watchhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26db_H_9dps
Stories we're following this morning at Progress Texas:Amendments to Houston's ICE ordinance put forth by Mayor John Whitmire were voted in yesterday by the Houston City Council - an effective caving to pressure from Governor Greg Abbott: https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/city-of-houston/2026/04/22/549776/ice-houston-police-policy-revised-city-council-whitmire-abbott/...The ordinance was designed to ensure that Houston police follow the Fourth Amendment - and its rescinding encourages those officers to violate it: https://reason.com/2026/04/22/houston-irks-texas-gov-greg-abbott-by-reminding-cops-to-comply-with-the-fourth-amendment/The court decision to allow Texas to force public schools to display the Ten Commandments is a continuation of our state's role as the primary national laboratory for Christian nationalism: https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/politics/election-2026/2026/04/22/549723/christian-nationalism-texas-republican-primary-runoff-paxton-patrick-middleton-talarico/...Biblical doctrine has successully bridged the gap between rhetoric and policy - the very divide supposedly guarded by church/state separation: https://arkvalleyvoice.com/is-texas-fifth-circuit-decision-a-judicial-endorsement-of-christian-nationalism/The Texas Tribune has published a search tool to find out who will be on your primary runoff ballot: https://apps.texastribune.org/features/2026/texas-may-2026-primary-runoff-ballot/We have TWO live events on the calendar! The first is in Houston on Wednesday May 20, when we'll record a live podcast with the newly-elected members of the Cy-Fair ISD board to discuss the undoing of MAGA damage to that district. Space is limited! Please RSVP here: https://act.progresstexas.org/a/cypressisdpodcastWe're also excited to see you in Dallas for our 16th anniversary celebration on Tuesday June 16! Make your reservation now: https://act.progresstexas.org/a/anniversary2026Progress Texas is expanding into both broadcast radio - including a new partnership with KPFT-FM in Houston - and into Spanish language media! Make a tax-deductible contribution to our radio initiative HERE, and to our Spanish expansion HERE.Find our web store and other ways to support our important work at https://progresstexas.org.
On Wednesday's show: From U.S. talks with Iran, to the City Council contemplating police interaction with ICE, to another Trump cabinet departure and beyond, we discuss the latest developments in politics in our weekly roundup.Also this hour: Ahead of a screening Saturday of the documentary Spacewoman, which is followed by a Q&A with the film's subject, retired astronaut Eileen Collins, we revisit a conversation we had with Collins, the first woman to pilot and command an American spacecraft.And author Ashanté Reese considers how gardens, reunions, and everyday meals can create connection, resilience, and care, which is the subject of her book, Gather: Black Food, Nourishment, and the Art of Togetherness.Watch
Stories we're following this morning at Progress Texas:Continuing the redistricting fight started by Donald Trump in Texas and highlighted by quorum-breaking Texas State House Democrats, Virginia voters have approved a redraw of their congressional map that may yield as many as four additional blue seats in the U.S. House: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/04/21/us/elections/redistricting-gerrymandering-virginia-takeaways.htmlThere's a big special session of the Houston City Council today, as Mayor John Whitmire proposes language changes to the city's ordinance governing Houston police interactions with ICE that some council members fear may undermine its intent to protect the rights of citizens: https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2026/04/22/whats-changing-mayor-john-whitmire-moves-to-revise-controversial-immigration-policy/...Meanwhile Governor Abbott has been invoking a 19-year-old Venezuelan murder suspect as an example of Houston's failed policies - but, this suspect had no contact with Houston police before he was arrested: https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/immigration/article/abbott-immigration-police-ice-policy-22217833.phpCorpus Christi's city council is now considering a mandatory and universal 25% water use cut by as early as this September: https://insideclimatenews.org/news/20042026/corpus-christi-projects-september-emergency-water-restrictions/The Texas Tribune has published a search tool to find out who will be on your primary runoff ballot: https://apps.texastribune.org/features/2026/texas-may-2026-primary-runoff-ballot/We have TWO live events on the calendar! The first is in Houston on Wednesday May 20, when we'll record a live podcast with the newly-elected members of the Cy-Fair ISD board to discuss the undoing of MAGA damage to that district. Space is limited! Please RSVP here: https://act.progresstexas.org/a/cypressisdpodcastWe're also excited to see you in Dallas for our 16th anniversary celebration on Tuesday June 16! Make your reservation now: https://act.progresstexas.org/a/anniversary2026Progress Texas is expanding into both broadcast radio - including a new partnership with KPFT-FM in Houston - and into Spanish language media! Make a tax-deductible contribution to our radio initiative HERE, and to our Spanish expansion HERE.Find our web store and other ways to support our important work at https://progresstexas.org.
Houston City Council's consideration of a repeal of a recent ordinance that updates how the Houston Police Department interacts with ICE has been postponed until next Wednesday. But on Thursday, Harris County Commissioners Court held its own discussion about such policies for county law enforcement. On Friday's Houston Matters, we learn more from Houston Public Media's Sarah Grunau. Then, FIFA officials are in town this week to do final inspections and approve the city of Houston's preparations for the World Cup. We learn the latest from Houston Public Media's Michael Adkison. Also this hour: We break down The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of the week.
Stories we're following this morning at Progress Texas:A major fight has developed between Houston Mayor John Whitmire - who wants to preserve $110 million in state funding by obey Governor Greg Abbott's orders to dump a new city ordinance limiting Houston police coordination with ICE - and members of the Houston City Council, who want Whitmire to fight back: https://www.houstonchronicle.com/politics/houston/article/houston-city-council-consider-repealing-new-ice-22205556.php...Council Members including Abbie Kamin, Tiffany Thomas and Tarsha Jackson say the constitutional rights of Houstonians are worth fighting for - while Whitmire says legally, it's a lost cause: https://www.khou.com/article/news/local/houston-city-council-immigration-ordinance/285-311511a3-25cd-4e10-acba-c2576a1b8149Dallas Republican Party Chair Allen West has quit his post ahead of a no-confidence vote provoked by his decision to return to countywide voting in the upcoming runoff, after the party's call to require precinct voting locations in the March primary led to chaos: https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/politics/dallas-county-gop-chair-allen-west-steps-down-amid-voting-controversy/4010885/Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico leads the nation in Q1 fundraising with an eye-popping $27 million haul, mostly from grassroots, individual donations of $100 or less: https://www.statesman.com/news/politics/state/article/talarico-announces-27-million-fundraising-first-22207662.phpA judge has decided that Jim Davis, president of UT Austin, will have to face a retaliation lawsuit from a student his administration suspended over a pro-Palestine on-campus protest: https://news.bloomberglaw.com/litigation/ut-austin-president-must-face-pro-palestine-protesters-suitThe Texas Tribune has published a search tool to find out who will be on your primary runoff ballot: https://apps.texastribune.org/features/2026/texas-may-2026-primary-runoff-ballot/We have TWO live events on the calendar! The first is in Houston on Wednesday May 20, when we'll record a live podcast with the newly-elected members of the Cy-Fair ISD board to discuss the undoing of MAGA damage to that district. Space is limited! Please RSVP here: https://act.progresstexas.org/a/cypressisdpodcastWe're also excited to see you in Dallas for our 16th anniversary celebration on Tuesday June 16! Make your reservation now: https://act.progresstexas.org/a/anniversary2026Progress Texas is expanding into both broadcast radio - including a new partnership with KPFT-FM in Houston - and into Spanish language media! Make a tax-deductible contribution to our radio initiative HERE, and to our Spanish expansion HERE.Find our web store and other ways to support our important work at https://progresstexas.org.
On Tuesday's show: Fort Bend County's new chief executive was sworn in Monday. We learn more about County Judge Daniel Wong, a former Sugar Land city council member who was appointed to the position after K.P. George was removed from office last week.And we learn about some of the reaction to Houston City Council's passage of a revised HPD policy for interacting with ICE.Also this hour: Houston's social scene quite often revolves around alcohol. But what if connection didn't require a drink? We learn how one Houston woman turned her personal journey to sobriety into a growing movement to create alcohol-free spaces and community, called Sober Girl Houston, as more Americans rethink their relationship with drinking.And we revisit the story of The Melody Maids, a group of singing teenage girls from southeast Texas that traveled the world performing for troops from World War II to Vietnam. A new documentary tells their story, and it will be shown April 15 at the River Oaks Theatre.Watch
On Thursday's show: Houston City Council has approved a proposal to limit Houston police officers' cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. Councilmember Alejandra Salinas joins us to discuss the details and why she supported the measure.Also this hour: From changing trends to pleasing customers and thin profit margins, running a restaurant has never been easy. But is it even harder these days with on-again/off-again tariffs and rising costs? We talk it over with some folks in the business.And an upcoming performance from the Houston Chamber Choir called The Sacred Veil explores how music can be used for healing. Watch
Jimmy Barrett takes you through the stories that matter the most on the morning of 04/01/26.
On Friday's show: We learn what Mayor John Whitmire had to say in his second State of the City address yesterday, laying out his vision for the remainder of his term and promising not to increase taxes, despite the city's budget issues.And the Houston Texans will soon have a new headquarters for their business operations, part of a planned 83-acre sports, retail, and entertainment district in the Bridgeland community in Cypress.Also this hour: Five years after the 2021 winter freeze knocked out power across the state for several days, we reflect on some memories of that deadly event and discuss the lessons learned from its effect on the power grid.Then, we break down The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of the week.And, ahead of Valentine's Day, we talk about a different kind of date -- a “Doggy Date” courtesy of the Houston Humane Society.Watch
Amanda Edwards, former Houston City Council member, returns with an update on her special runoff election for Texas' 18th Congressional District this weekend.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.
Stories we're following this morning at Progress Texas:A federal judge has ordered that five-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos, grabbed with his father in Minneapolis last week and rushed to a Texas detention lockup, not be deported until his case can be reviewed: https://kstp.com/kstp-news/local-news/judge-blocks-transfer-of-5-year-old-liam-ramos-father-from-texas-detention-facility/...Immigration attorneys in Minnesota are decrying ICE's "conveyor belt" system, designed to swiftly relocate children from that state to Texas faster than the courts can react: https://www.mprnews.org/story/2026/01/28/ice-detaining-moving-minnesota-children-to-texas-faster-than-courts-can-respond...ICE and the Department of Homeland Security appear to have repeatedly and systematically violated the 1997 Flores Settlement: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/may/22/trump-children-flores-settlement-agreement...Dozens of Texas Democratic lawmakers are demanding the release of Leqaa Kordia, who has been held for almost a year at the ICE lockup in Alvarado - she's suspected of having been targeted by ICE for speaking out against the Gaza conflict: https://www.borderreport.com/hot-topics/immigration/texas-lawmakers-demand-release-of-palestinian-woman/...A young Arlington man whose father has been detained by ICE since October has died - his family now pleads for the father to be allowed to attend his son's funeral: https://www.dallasnews.com/news/2026/01/25/disabled-son-of-arlington-man-arrested-by-ice-dies-from-rare-disease/...A large crowd of angry Houstonians descended upon a Houston City Council meeting on Tuesday night, demanding changes to their city's ICE policies: https://abc13.com/post/houston-city-council-meeting-erupts-calls-end-ice-cooperation/18488930/...Dallas Congressman Marc Veasey takes to the Dallas Morning News to decry the quiet reinstatement of an ICE prosecutor found to have been running a racist, neo-Nazi Twitter account: https://www.dallasnews.com/opinion/commentary/2026/01/26/congressman-white-supremacists-have-no-place-in-our-government/...D/FW coffee chain White Rhino Coffee has seen several employees quit over the chain's policy of extending a first responder discount to ICE agents: https://www.axios.com/local/dallas/2026/01/27/white-rhino-coffee-employees-quit-over-companys-stance-on-ice-agents...D/FW religious leaders have convened in opposition to the development of a huge new ICE detention facility in the little town of Hutchins, Texas: https://www.dallasobserver.com/news/dallas-religious-leaders-speak-against-planned-ice-facility-40637475/Early voting in the March primary starts in mere weeks, on February 17 - the time to research your ballot is right now: https://apps.texastribune.org/features/2026/texas-march-2026-primary-ballot/?_bhlid=7d8eca3d2a16adc7c9b44185414443fa32be6d84Check out our web store, including our newly-expanded Humans Against Greg Abbott collection: https://store.progresstexas.org/Progress Texas is expanding into both broadcast radio - including a new partnership with KPFT-FM in Houston - and into Spanish language media! Make a tax-deductible contribution to our radio initiative HERE, and to our Spanish expansion HERE.Find our web store and other ways to support our important work at https://progresstexas.org.
On Thursday's show: The Chevron Houston Marathon is this Sunday. That means a lot of runners, a lot of spectators, and a lot of traffic. We talk with one of the organizers about what Houstonians need to know ahead of this weekend's events.And we find out why the mayor and the city controller are clashing again, this time over how flood mitigation funds are being used.Also this hour: We recall great speakers and speeches in Houston's history.Then, we discuss the long term impact of GLP-1 medications on Houstonians' health.And we chat with reggae musician Shaggy ahead of his performance with the Houston Symphony on Sunday.Watch
Bob Frantz takes you through the stories that matter the most on the morning of 11/21/25.
On Thursday's show: Houstonians can no longer rent scooters late at night after the Houston City Council enacted a nighttime curfew for both electric and foot-powered scooters amid concerns about safety.And we learn about plans at Humble ISD to implement a school marshal program that would allow employees to carry firearms on campus.Also this hour: In a car-dominant state, the agency responsible for building Texas highways says the state needs more public transit options to deal with its continued growth. We learn more about the draft plan from TxDOT and consider how we should anticipate the future transportation needs of Houstonians.Then, we embark on a hunt for Houston's hidden history with the book, Lost Treasures of Houston.And we visit the Houston Geological Society's annual Gem, Jewelry, Mineral, and Fossil Show.Watch
On Thursday's show: Houston City Council is considering a measure that would effectively prohibit homeless people from sidewalks in a sprawling area around a new homeless services center in the East Downtown neighborhood. The addition of a new zone to the so-called civility ordinance across the Greater East End would mark the third expansion of the rule over the past year. We get the latest details from Houston Public Media's Dominic Anthony Walsh.Also this hour: Attorney and law professor Joyce Vance talks about the erosion of democratic norms and how citizens can push back on that, which is the subject of her book, Giving Up Is Unforgivable: A Manual For Keeping A Democracy. Vance will speak at a Houston event on Nov. 13.Then, we talk with comedian Steve Hofstetter ahead of his appearance Friday at The Secret Group.And we meet the new director of Houston Grand Opera,James Gaffigan.Watch
On Wednesday's show: On Election Day, Democrats won high-profile races in Virginia, New Jersey, and New York, while back here in Houston, closely watched races for Congress and Houston City Council are headed to runoffs. We discuss election results and the latest developments in politics in our weekly roundup.Also this hour: Dining out has been getting more expensive. So, we turn to our gaggle of foodies and seek their suggestions for the best low-cost eating options around town on this month's edition of The Full Menu.And gifted and talented programs in Texas schools can take many forms. An education expert explains how those programs have evolved to embrace more than just academic prowess.Watch
On Monday's show: FIEL Houston executive director Cesar Espinoza was removed from the last Houston City Council meeting after he suggested city officials lied about the detention of an autistic 15-year-old boy. Emmanuel Gonzalez Garcia reportedly went missing nearly two weeks ago while selling fruit on the street with his mother. The boy ultimately ended up in federal custody. We discuss that case and what it can tell us about how Houston police officers interact with federal officials, including ICE, as we talk with Matt DeGrood of the Houston Chronicle. Then, Espinoza joins us to share his concerns and why he believes he was removed from Wednesday's meeting.Also this hour: Today is the anniversary of the Saturday Night Massacre during Watergate. We revisit 2022 conversations about the lasting impact of the scandal and how it influenced film.Then, veterinarian Dr. Lori Teller gives us the lowdown on the dangers of pets getting into Halloween candy as she answers your pet care questions.And Kris Gardner from Houston Roundball Review previews the Rockets season, which tips off Tuesday night on the road against the champion Oklahoma City Thunder.Watch
The whole country is holding its breath for tomorrow's second national No Kings demonstrations - for progressives, an important opportunity to stand up to encroaching authoritarianism - but for Donald Trump, perhaps a tempting target to further crack down on his political opponents. We talk about the importance of courage at this critical moment, not only for No Kings 2, but as we face yet another blatant erasure of LGBTQ+ pride, continued injustice on our college campuses, and more.Learn more about Alejandra Salinas and her campaign for the Houston City Council at https://www.alejandrasalinas.com/.Houston friends! Join Progress Texas in The Heights on Monday October 20 for our H-Town Hits Back live podcast taping event! Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now: https://act.progresstexas.org/a/houston2025eventThanks for listening! Learn more about Progress Texas and how you can help us continue our important work at https://progresstexas.org/.
Mayor Whitmire is breaking his silence about the removal of the iconic rainbow crosswalk. Plus, why is Ken Paxton suing to try and shut down a Houston civil rights organization? Producer Carlignon Jones is talking to Chron.com trending news reporter, Faith Bugenhagen, about those stories and more! We have some sad news to share today: City Cast Houston and Hey Houston are suspending operations. Our last episode and newsletter will be released on Oct. 24. Next week, we'll be sharing a mix of fresh and beloved conversations, to celebrate this community and our city. And we want to include you in our final episode! Tell us how City Cast Houston has been a part of your life. From your favorite episode, to a story that changed your mind, or something that made you feel more connected to our city. Please email us at houston@citycast.fm or leave us a voice message at+1 713-489-6972. This show has been such a meaningful part of our lives and we know it's meant something to so many of you too. We want to thank you for listening, for trusting us with your stories, and for helping us make this show everything that it was. Stories we talked about on today's show: Former detective says string of Houston deaths may be linked to alleged ‘Smiley Face' killer network Houston leaders vow to fight rainbow crosswalk removal, look into legal action Houston mayor breaks silence on rainbow crosswalk removal Houston City Council votes to permanently close Polk St. to make way for $2B GRB expansion Paxton's suit to shut down FIEL Houston can move forward, court rules Learn more about the sponsors of this October 17th episode: AIA Houston Downtown Houston+ Contemporary Arts Museum Houston Houston Cinema Arts Society Visit Pearland 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! Photo by Getty Images on Unsplash
On Friday's show: We examine the wave of massive data centers expanding across Texas, prompting warnings from experts who say the new water demands could push the state's already strained supply to the brink.Also this hour: We get a new perspective on local democracy by talking with self-described "local government enthusiast" Emily Hynds about observing every Houston City Council meeting for the last five years and sharing what she sees through her blog, Emily Takes Notes.Then, from Camp Mystic planning to reopen partially, to a statue of President Trump holding hands with Jeffrey Epstein briefly showing up on the National Mall, our non-experts break down The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of the week.And we recall how an underdog team of Major League prospects -- including some future Astros stars -- managed to pull off an upset and won the gold medal in baseball at the 2000 Olympics. We talk with Houstonian Dave Fanucchi, author of a book about that story, Miracle on Grass.Watch
Meltdowns at commissioners court, a hotel workers' strike, and a new investigation into building in the floodplain— it's another busy week in Houston! Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by Chron.com's trending news reporter Faith Bugenhagen and conservative commentator Charles Blain to unpack why Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo abruptly walked out of budget talks, what the Hilton Americas strike means for other workers, and why Houston is STILL building in flood zones. Dive deeper into stories we talked about on today's show: Harris County Judge abruptly leaves budget talks to attend concert Houston developed 65,000 flood-prone properties since Harvey. Who profits, and who pays the price? Houston's promise of opportunity tested by striking hotel workers | Editorial Hilton Americas-Houston workers extend ‘historic' strike by 11 days, rally at city hall Houston City Council questions pension chairperson as municipal retirees await payments Learn more about the sponsors of this September 12th episode: Contemporary Arts Museum Houston Awty International School Houston Holocaust Museum Houston Kidney Cancer Association Huel - Save 15% with code HOUSTON Downtown Houston+ Want to become a City Cast Houston Neighbor? Check out our membership program. 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: Ed Uthman
On Thursday's show: Houston City Council has approved plans to spend some $315 million in federal recovery funds, including $100 million for home repairs and housing, marking a significant turnaround from Mayor John Whitmire's initial proposal and a major victory for housing advocates. We learn more about that and some other recent developments in city government, including money for more beds for the homeless in the East End and new solid waste trucks. Also this hour: Recent comments from President Trump suggest some hostility towards wind energy. We consider what that could mean for Texas.Then, we learn about the challenges of running a restaurant -- when that restaurant is on wheels.And Stacey Allen, the author of a new children's book about dance, called D is for Dance, explores how the rhythms of the African diaspora continue to shape Houston's creative scene.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire has launched an ambitious campaign to solve a complex problem in Houston: Getting thousands of people off the streets and into stable housing. To find out exactly how he plans to accomplish this, and how much money it will take, City Cast Houston host Raheel Ramzanali is sitting down with Director of Housing and Community Development Mike Nichols. Dive deeper into today's episode: Stern and Marks: Philanthropy isn't the answer to bad government Houston City Council effectively bans homeless people from downtown and East Downtown sidewalks Houston's ‘end street homelessness' fund remains well short of goal as regionwide efforts continue If you enjoyed today's interview with Xavier Academy's Founder, Richard De La Caudara, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 4th episode: Holocaust Museum Houston Houston Restaurant Weeks Get more from City Cast Houston when you become a City Cast Houston Neighbor. You'll enjoy perks like ad-free listening, invitations to members only events and more. Join now at membership.citycast.fm 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
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
On Thursday's show: After an 8-hour meeting and extended disruption by protesters on Wednesday, Houston City Council approved a $7 billion budget for the next fiscal year, which starts in July. We learn details from reporter Dominic Anthony Walsh.Also this hour: Today is World Environment Day. As we contemplate the impact climate change continues to have on the Gulf Coast and coastal communities around the world, should we just stop rebuilding in flood-prone communities? We listen back to a discussion about that with Pulitzer Prize-winner Gilbert Gaul, author of The Geography of Risk.Then, we learn more about the Fade to Black Arts Festival, which celebrates Black creativity in poetry, theater, film and more and runs June 8-14.An we preview the annual Texas Music Festival, which highlights rising stars of the classical music world and runs June 5-28.
On Thursday's show: Budget season continues here in Houston. The City Council is contemplating spending $7 billion next fiscal year -- $3 billion of it from coming from the city's general fund. Council has about a month left to approve a budget, but a key part of it was just locked in, as council members approved a new contract agreement with the union representing Houston police officers. News 88.7's Dominic Anthony Walsh joins us with details.Also this hour: Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo joins us to discuss how the county is handling its own budget concerns and other developments affecting the county.Then, in this month's installment of The Bigger Picture, we talk about our collective obsession with death and the macabre with the release of Final Destination: Bloodlines, the latest in that series of horror movies.And Lyle Lovett is performing a free concert in Tomball later this month. We revisit our 2023 conversation with the Houston native, who follows that performance with a long summer tour across the country.
On Wednesday's show: Houston City Council members have begun budget hearings this week as the city faces economic uncertainty amid a budget shortfall. But some of that shortfall could be remedied if some proceeds from toll roads are shifted from Harris County to the city, as a bill in the legislature would do. But the county has its own budget concerns.We get some insight on crafting a budget for both the city and the county in uncertain financial times -- all while navigating the intertwining relationship of those two government entities -- from two people who've been there: former Houston Mayor Annise Parker and former Harris County Judge Ed Emmett.Also this hour: We break down the latest developments in politics in our weekly roundup.And we get some advice for paying back student loans (or maybe being forced to) in a changing landscape for student borrowers. MORE: Resources mentioned today about federal student loans For more information on student loan repayment, visit studentaid.gov To contact the Default Resolution Group, call 800-621-3115
A record-breaking heat wave will blanket big sections of the state. Is this a preview of summer?The U.S. has suspended imports of cattle from Mexico as a devastating pest, the New World Screwworm, makes its way north, threatening livestock.The Houston City Council kicks off budget hearings this week, weighing steep cuts.The new book “Freedom Season” by Texas […] The post Potentially historic heatwave settling in over much of Texas appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.
On Thursday's show: Houston Mayor John Whitmire clashed with the city's chief financial officer, Controller Chris Hollins, during the city council meeting this week after the controller's office presented an explosive report on overtime expenditures by the police, fire, and solid waste departments. We learn more and get an update on other developments affecting the city from News 88.7 reporter Dominic Anthony Walsh.Also this hour: Houston native Debbie Allen talks about an effort to help people understand what it's like to live with diabetes.Then, we talk with Cary Darling, entertainment editor for the Houston Chronicle, about Goldstone, the film he's presenting for the Movies Houstonians Love series at the MFAH.And we learn about Black Restaurant Week, which is marking its tenth year highlighting Black-owned restaurants across the city.
It's the Friday News Roundup! Host Raheel Ramzanali is recapping the biggest stories in Houston this week. Today, he's joined by Lucio Vasquez, breaking news reporter for The Texas Newsroom. They discuss the details of a Houston-area midwife arrested under the state's near-total abortion ban. Plus, the wildfire near Sam Houston National Forest, and why Houston was ranked one of America's ‘unhappiest' cities! Stories and links from today's show: Listen to Lucio's latest reporting for The Texas Newsroom Texas midwife and 2 others arrested in connection to illegal abortion investigation, state AG says Texas' first abortion arrests stem from monthlong attorney general investigation 2,000 acre San Jacinto wildfire 20 percent contained Thursday morning, officials say As BARC speeds up euthanasia process, Houston City Council considers new organizational structure New study confirms Houston remains one of America's 'unhappiest' cities NASA astronauts splash down off Florida coast, ending 9-month saga Why This Houstonian Is Stuck in Outer Space If You Had $1 Billion, What Would You Do for 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
On Thursday's show: We learn about recent actions taken by Houston City Council, including creation of the Office of Recovery and Resilience and a fund for homelessness. We also discuss a new METRO initiative focused on cleanliness, safety, and ridership.Also this hour: The Houston-Galveston Area Council is seeking comments from the public about where to spend money to improve traffic and safety along the Washington Avenue corridor. A long stretch of the street is seen as part of the city's “High Injury Network.” In other words, there are not a lot of good, safe pedestrian crossings. We learn more about the project.Then, the classic 1980s teen drama The Breakfast Club turns 40 this month. In the latest installment of The Bigger Picture, we look back at the movie and consider ways education and the high school experience have changed since then.And an ardent fan remembers Selena on the 30th anniversary of her last major concert at the Astrodome in 1995.
On Tuesday's show: Houston City Council is considering potential regulations for short-term rentals like Airbnb and Vrbo. News 88.7 reporter Dominic Anthony Walsh explains what they're discussing.Also this hour: The Texans' Aziz Al-Shaair has been suspended three games for his blow to the head of sliding quarterback Trevor Lawrence. It came the same week a new study was released finding longer ice hockey careers may increase the risks of developing CTE. Some point to the need for better athletic equipment (improvements in helmets, for instance) as a way to reduce those risks. Others believe the more equipment, the more likely athletes are to hit harder. We discuss that debate and whether better protective equipment, better rules, or changes in attitudes towards contact sports can really yield fewer injuries.Then, the family of Austin Tice, a Houston journalist and U.S. Marine Corps veteran kidnapped in Syria more than a dozen years ago, is making a fresh push with the Biden administration to secure his freedom. The Tices planned to go to the White House on Friday to meet with the National Security Council. In light of developments in Syria and how they might affect this story, we revisit a 2014 conversation with Tice's parents, Marc and Debra.And Americana singer Robert Earl Keen brings his annual Christmas show to House of Blues on Dec. 19. We listen back to a 2014 conversation with him about his holiday shows and his foray into bluegrass.
On Friday's show: While we've all understandably been fixated on election news this week, there's actual governing going on, too. Dominic Anthony Walsh joins us with the latest on some leadership changes at Houston City Hall.Also this hour: From Elon Musk seemingly discovering Harris County exists on election day, to someone buying a dime for $500,000, our non-experts weigh in on The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of the week.And true crime podcasts are very popular. We meet the hosts of the Sistas Who Kill podcast who offer a unique take on the concept. Their live tour arrives in Houston on Sunday at House of Blues.
It's Friday and that means host Raheel Ramzanali is recapping the big news from the week. Joining him today is dynamic media personality Antre'chelle Nova to talk about why hate crimes are going unreported, the heated debate around property tax hikes, the difference between the rapper Big Boi and a train with the same name, and more! Stories we discussed on today's show: Your Guide to October 2024 in Houston Hate crimes and incidents in Harris County often go unreported to police, study finds Union Pacific's no. 4014 Big Boy is coming back. Here's what to know. Houston City Council members clash over property tax hike Houston Vietnamese vegan restaurant goes viral in first video made by owner's 15-year-old son Beloved Houston Art Car Museum will live on in new permanent home Learn more about the sponsors of this October 4th episode here: Downtown Houston+ The Village School 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
On Friday's show: Houston City Councilmember Mario Castillo discusses the city's budget and whether it will follow Harris County's lead and approve a property tax increase.Also this hour: A gun reform initiative is using AI to generate voicemails from people killed by gun violence. We discuss the ethical questions using such technology raises.Then, our non-experts discuss The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of the week, including a winning lottery ticket going unclaimed and a Houston woman pleading guilty to fraudulently obtaining more than $600,000 in disaster relief from FEMA.And we talk with comedian and actor David Cross, who's known for his stand up comedy, television roles in Mr. Show and Arrested Development, and numerous films. He brings his The End of the Beginning of the End Tour to White Oak Music Hall on Sept. 24.
On Thursday's show: After a two-week delay, Houston City Council again postponed an ordinance prohibiting protests within 200 feet of a “targeted dwelling.” The proposal comes in response to months of pro-Palestinian protests, including several that targeted Mayor John Whitmire's home.At a press conference on Wednesday, Whitmire added more details to his assertion that the groups consist of "paid protestors" and that "they are being paid by Iran." Reporter Dominic Anthony Walsh explains that story and some other recent developments in city government.Also this hour: We explore the fentanyl crisis in Houston and learn about steps being taken to train first responders and law enforcement to treat overdoses. Then, technically, recreational marijuana is illegal in Texas. Yet, THC products continue to sell, and often tested samples are found to contain THC well over the legal limit. State regulators are short on staff and authority. So, is marijuana essentially legal here? Russell Gold wrote an article on this subject for Texas Monthly and explains what he found.And Houstonian Emmanuel Osei-Kuffour talks aboAll Eventsut directing episodes of TV shows like the FX series Shogun and the Paramount Plus series Star Trek Discovery.
Another week is in the books, so that means it's time to recap the local news stories you need to know. City Cast Houston producer Carlignon Jones is filling in for Raheel Ramzanali this week and is joined by Pulitzer Prize Finalist Evan Mintz to discuss a massive bust on bail bond fraud, why COVID is on the rise, the growing list of politicians vying for Shelia Jackson Lee's spot, and much more! Dive deeper into the stories we talked about in this episode: Houston candidates pitching themselves to replace the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee on November ballot ‘Colossal': 50 in custody following two-year long bail bond fraud investigation in Harris County Exclusive: Former Police Chief Troy Finner alleges he was pushed out to bury HPD scandal COVID is on the rise again Felix Fraga, former Houston City Council member and longtime activist, dies at 94 Here's what VP Kamala Harris did once she landed in Houston Watch Live: Kamala Harris addresses teachers union in Houston 40,000 Black women rally behind Kamala Harris' campaign, raising $1.5 million in 3 hours Learn more about the sponsors of this July 26th episode here: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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