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11 episodes with laura isensee
8 episodes with laura isensee
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
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
Last year, Houston drivers spent almost 50 hours in rush hour traffic. And making matters worse, one key stretch of Houston freeway is by far and away the most congested highway segment in the Lone Star State. So, host Raheel Ramzanali, executive producer Laura Isensee, and Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis talk about the unwritten rules of the road you need to survive Houston streets. Stories we talked about on today's show: Houston drivers spent almost 50 hours in rush hour traffic last year Houston freeway core far and away the worst for congestion in Texas, transportation agency says 610 Day: Our Love-Hate Relationship With the 610 Loop The Absolute Worst Roads In H-Town If you enjoyed today's interview with Stages Houston, Denise Fennell, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this May 8th episode: Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Downtown Houston+ Stages Gals Who Give Harris County 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
Let's face it, Houston isn't as affordable as it once was because of inflation and other factors. So, we want to help you save some money! From insurance to groceries and eating out, host Raheel Ramzanali, Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis, and executive producer Laura Isensee are giving you their best money-saving hacks for H-Town! Tips and trends we talked about: Energy Ogre Rakuten TxFrugalFinds on Instagram Houston is just one of five major cities where owning a home is still considered affordable, according to report Texas drivers can expect to see 23% cost spike in full coverage car insurance this year. Here's why Learn more about the sponsors of this April 24th episode: Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Trees 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
We're in the final stretch of that perfect spring weather in Houston, and host Raheel Ramzanali wants to soak it all up, without spending a fortune. So, he's challenged executive producer Laura Isensee and Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis to plan the perfect spring day in H-town for under $50! Brooke's Perfect Spring Day in Montrose: Coffee at Empire Cafe Shopping at Space Montrose, Leopard Lounge, and others Lunch at ChopnBlok Visit The Menil Collection and Rothko Chapel Laura's Perfect Spring Day: Heights Blvd. Morning Walk Brunch at EMA Check out the stores on 19th Street Donation-based yoga at Black Swan Yoga Happy Hour at Padre's Wine Company or Onion Creek Pizza at Coltivare Raheel's Perfect Spring Day: Blue Moon latte at Summer Moon Brunch at Shykatz Cafe Free beach on the west side of Galveston or under Murdoch's Happy hour at Fish Taco Company Learn more about the sponsors of this April 10th episode: Visit Port Aransas British International School of 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Over 50 years ago, more than two dozen teenage boys in Houston were tortured and murdered by the "Candy Man," one of the country's most prolific serial killers. But the crime was ignored for too long. Now a new book reveals how a scientist restored the long-lost identity of several victims and why the case still matters today. City Cast Houston executive producer Laura Isensee sat down with Lise Olsen, author of “The Scientist and the Serial Killer,” and forensic anthropologist Sharon Derrick to learn more. And just a heads up, this episode focuses on a topic that is graphic in nature. To learn more about the case, check out these upcoming book events: Book launch at Murder by the Book on April 1 Conversation with Maggie Galehouse at the Barnes & Noble in Webster on April 11 Learn more about the sponsors of this March 31st episode: Visit Port Aransas Rice University Precollege 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Imagine waking up as a billionaire—just like Tilman Fertitta, the Arnolds, and other Houston billionaires. How would you improve Houston? Host Raheel Ramzanali joins executive producer Laura Isensee and Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis to brainstorm how they'd transform H-Town with a billion dollars. From the arts to bikes and parks, they share fun and personal ideas for an even better Houston! Learn more about the sponsors of this March 20th episode: Visit Port Aransas Destination Bryan Meow Wolf The Village School Bayou City Art Festival 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 H-Town! Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by executive producer Laura Isensee to talk about why the Houston Texans are catching so much backlash from fans regarding a new stadium. Plus, how much is it going to cost to build a new water treatment plant that Houston desperately needs? Oh, and our moments of joy! Stories we talked about on today's episode: Exclusive: Houston Texans may seek public money to build new football stadium Houstonians react to news of potential new Texans stadium: 'Win a Super Bowl and we'll think about it' 'The longer it takes the more risk there is' | Houston Public Works highlights urgent need for funding replacement of aging infrastructure This program helped Afghan women learn to drive. Then Trump cut refugee resettlement. Houston's newly arrived Afghan refugees face eviction, uncertainty after Trump cuts support What's the 'Most Houston' Thing Ever? Learn more about the sponsors of this February 21st episode here: Downtown Houston+ Inprint 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! Photo: Brooke Sutton/Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
From fancy restaurants to big shows, there's plenty of easy ways to empty your wallet on a date in Houston. So, how do you have the perfect date in H-town without breaking the bank? The City Cast team, including host Raheel Ramzanali, newsletter editor Brooke Lewis, and executive producer Laura Isensee, accepted the challenge to plan a romantic outing under $25. And they have a special guest judge, dynamic media personality Antre'chelle Nova, to pick the winner! Places we talked about on today's show: Project Row Houses Kindred Stories Rado Market Spec's: Wines, Spirits, Finer Foods McGovern Centennial Gardens Free Fitness Classes at Discovery Green Jazzy Sundays in the Park Reza's Persian Grill El Bolillo Follow Antre'chelle Nova on Instagram Learn more about the sponsors of this February 13th episode here: Visit Amarillo Downtown Houston+ Inprint St. Thomas High 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
Oil and gas companies are a big part of Houston and Texas, but who's going to pay for the growing cost to clean up abandoned oil wells? We're watching that. Plus, what's in and what's out for 2025 in H-Town? Host Raheel Ramzanlali and executive producer Laura Isensee team up to break down those stories. And you won't believe today's Only in H-Town, where rats are eating up thousands of pounds of marijuana in storage at the Houston Police Department. Stories we talked about on today's show: The Railroad Commission's $100M request poses a potential challenge for Texas taxpayers The Forgotten Consequences of the Texas Oil Boom Houston's 2025 crawfish season looks promising, according to caterers, experts Music Legends and Rising Stars Collide: The 2025 RODEOHOUSTON® Unveils Epic Entertainment Lineup Houston drivers spent almost 50 hours in rush hour traffic last year What development zones are – and how Houston uses them to drive growth America has a loneliness epidemic. Here are 6 steps to address it 'The rats are the only ones enjoying it' | Houston to clear outdated police evidence Learn more about the sponsors of this January 14th episode here: Holocaust Museum Houston Museum of Fine Arts 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
Whether you're looking for an authentic Indian curry, the best hummus in Houston, or something to satisfy your sweet tooth, Hillcroft Street is the place to go. Not only is Hillcroft a foodie's dream, it's also one of the city's most diverse streets, stretching from west of the Galleria through Gulfton and Bellaire. But where to start? Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by executive producer Laura Isensee and Sharan Gahunia of Raja Sweets, Houston's first-ever Indian restaurant, to dish on some of the best hidden culinary gems along the street. Check out these restaurants on Hillcroft: Raja Sweets Reza Persian Grill Bismillah Restaurant and Cafe London Sizzler Droubi's Bakery & Deli Shri Balaji Bhavan La Pupusa Loca El Pupusodromo Mama Rosa's Pupusería Fiesta Mart (and why it's been called the “best grocery store in America”) The Darband Shishkabob NY Deli 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
What's the “Most Houston” thing ever? In a city known for its sports teams, celebrities, and cultural — as well as culinary — institutions, it's not an easy question to answer. But this fall, with the help of Deborah Duncan, host of Great Day Houston on KHOU, host Raheel Ramzanali and executive producer Laura Isensee gave it the old college try, and even put together a tournament bracket to help narrow down the many contenders. So, which local icon was dubbed the “Most Houston” thing ever, and do you agree with our conclusions? We invited listeners to vote on their faves as well — check out the full bracket and see who won that “listeners' choice” competition. Plus, let us know what we missed! 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 new year is right around the corner, and one of your New Year's resolutions may be to get out of your comfort zone. So, today, host Raheel Ramzanali is helping you get a jump start on your goals. He's bringing on producer Carlignon Jones, Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis, and executive producer Laura Isensee to get their top tips to leave your comfort zone and explore more what Houston has to offer! This episode originally aired on June 20th, 2024. LINKS: Well Done cooking classes Camping spots around the Houston area Improv classes at Station Theater or Houston School of Improv Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals Dance classes at Houston Metropolitan Dance Center and the Houston Ballet adult classes Float the river in New Braunfels or Schlitterbahn Water park adventures at Splashtown in Spring or Schlitterbahn in Galveston Critical Mass Houston Register to vote Researching candidates via League of Women Voters of Houston James Driver Inclusive Park Learn more about the sponsors of this December 19th episode here: Classic Christmas 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
Last week, a Houston-area toddler was killed and his grandmother injured while in a crosswalk, but the driver involved wasn't arrested — despite a state law that could have led to felony charges. That's the big story for today's episode with host Raheel Ramzanali and executive producer Laura Isensee. They also dive into the latest moves from Attorney General Ken Paxton on abortion and Harris County's guaranteed income program. And don't miss how a glitch at Amazon caused a local community to issue a declaration of disaster! Stories we talked about today: Family wants justice for 2-year-old Houston boy killed in crosswalk Ken Paxton sues New York doctor accused of prescribing abortion pills to Texas woman Payments under revamped Harris County guaranteed income program halted pending Paxton's appeal Texas Gulf Coast residents now spotting mysterious drones too Humble extends disaster declaration after glitch overwhelmed city with Amazon trucks Your Guide to December 2024 in Houston The Best Free Holiday Activities in Houston Learn more about the sponsors of this December 17th episode here: Classic Christmas 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
The week is off to a busy start, and host Raheel Ramzanali is getting you caught up with the stories you need to know. Today, he's joined by executive producer Laura Isensee to learn about what's next for HISD and state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles after voters rejected its historic $4.4 billion bond. Plus, Beyoncé is performing on Christmas, but will we will be able to watch it on Netflix without streaming issues? And, H-town is REALLY popular as we're headed into a record-breaking year for tourism. Stories we talked about on today's show: RSVP to the City Cast Houston Audience Appreciation Party Superintendent Mike Miles Answers YOUR Questions about HISD Houston Airport Hacks You Need For Holiday Travel Astros announce Minute Maid Park name change, confirm Daikin as new sponsor Houston ISD parents criticize Mike Miles in first board meeting since failed bond election Houston ISD changes campus leadership at Harvard Elementary, Pershing Middle School Newly hired Harvard Elementary principal resigns 1 week after taking job The FBI says it stopped a possible terrorist attack in Houston Houston Community College leaders are considering a name change. Not everyone is on board Beyoncé to perform at halftime of Texans-Ravens game on Christmas at NRG Stadium More people are visiting Houston than ever before, new report says Botched Uber Eats food delivery ends up at bottom of Galveston Bay Learn more about the sponsors of this November 19th episode here: Classic Christmas Inprint 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: Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It's been a long week with the election, so we're going take a moment and indulge in what Houston does best — food! Host Raheel Ramzanali, producer Carlignon Jones, Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis, and executive producer Laura Isensee are competing to put together their most iconic Houston meal. Each one will draft an appetizer, an entree, two sides, and a dessert from any Houston restaurant. After you listen to the entire episode, be sure to head to our Instagram @CityCastHouston and let us know who had the best picks! And please join City Cast Houston at our community event Dec. 4 at Saint Arnold Brewing Company! RSVP here. Learn more about the sponsors of this November 7th episode here: Houston Cinema Arts Society Visit Pearland Holocaust 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
Houston still ranks as one of the more affordable big cities in the country, but it's not as affordable as it used to be. And we're all feeling the pressures of inflation and other rising costs. From insurance to groceries and eating out, we want to help you save money and keep Houston feeling affordable. Host Raheel Ramzanali is bringing on Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis and executive producer Laura Isensee for their best money-saving hacks! Tips and trends we talked about: Energy Ogre Rakuten TxFrugalFinds on Instagram Houston is just one of five major cities where owning a home is still considered affordable, according to report Texas drivers can expect to see 23% cost spike in full coverage car insurance this year. Here's why Learn more about the sponsors of this October 24th episode here: Visit Pearland Downtown Houston+ British International School of Houston Museum of Fine Arts AIA 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
Houston is known for so many great sports teams, celebrities, symbols, and more. But what is the ultimate Houston icon that represents H-Town? We put together a tournament bracket so host Raheel Ramzanali and executive producer Laura Isensee can narrow down the choices with the help of Deborah Duncan, host of Great Day Houston on KHOU, to crown one icon as the ‘Most Houston' thing ever! Think we got it wrong? Or want to see the full bracket as you listen to the show? Weigh in on the matchups, and let us know what we missed. Learn more about the sponsors of this September 12th episode here: The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Holocaust Museum Houston British International School of 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
Few streets in Houston capture the city's diversity better than Hillcroft, located west of the Galleria and running through Gulfton and Bellaire. But with so many options and cuisines, it can be overwhelming to know where to start! So, host Raheel Ramzanali is getting tips from Sharan Gahunia of Raja's Sweets, Houston's first Indian restaurant ever on Hillcroft, and executive producer Laura Isensee on the best hidden gems along the street. From pupusas to South Asian desserts, the episode will have you set to savor Houston's rich culinary diversity. Check out these restaurants on Hillcroft: Raja Sweets Reza Persian Grill Bismillah Restaurant and Cafe London Sizzler Droubi's Bakery & Deli Shri Balaji Bhavan La Pupusa Loca El Pupusodromo Mama Rosa's Pupusería The Best Grocery Store in America Is Fiesta Mart The Darband Shishkabob Learn more about the sponsors of this August 28th episode here: Downtown Houston+ Holocaust 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 Wednesday, so that means we're talking about food. And today we're going to try and pick the ultimate Houston food plate. This is the best of the best of Houston's restaurants and eateries. Host Raheel Ramzanali, producer Carlignon Jones, Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis, and executive producer Laura Isensee are competing. Each one will draft an appetizer, two sides, an entree, and a dessert from any Houston restaurant. After you listen to the entire episode, be sure to head to our Instagram @CityCastHouston and vote on who had the best draft! Restaurants we talked about today: Aga's Restaurant Bistro Menil Brennan's Houston Cake Station Express Da Gama Davanti Ristorante Ema House of Pies Lucille's Ninfa's Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen Perry's Steakhouse Pico's Houston Pizzeria Solario Schulze's Bar-B-Q and Catering Taste Kitchen + Bar The Breakfast Klub The Cooking Girl Truth BBQ Learn more about the sponsors of this August 14th episode here: Inprint 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 exhausting week as the city rebuilds after Hurricane Beryl. So, host Raheel Ramzanali is decompressing a bit by talking to executive producer Laura Isensee and Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis about what they'll remember from the hurricane from their personal experience, tips on recovering from the storm, why we're all so tired of being #HoustonStrong, and more! Here's more about the resources and stories mentioned in today's show: What-a-power: Houston-area residents hungry for outage info turn to Whataburger app map Acting Texas governor pledges to hold CenterPoint accountable for Beryl preps Houston cooling centers: Find relief from heat after Hurricane Beryl Need to work and recharge after Hurricane Beryl? Here are Houston coffee shops that are open Watching Out for Cons and Scams after Disasters Step aside, Whataburger. CenterPoint releases power outage map of its own. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 11th episode here: Babbel 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
Leaving your comfort zone and breaking routine can be challenging. That's why host Raheel Ramzanali, executive producer Laura Isensee, Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis, and producer Carlignon Jones are laying out new ways to leave your comfort zone around H-Town with adventures, activities, and more! Try out these recommendations! Well Done cooking classes Camping spots around the Houston area Improv classes at Station Theater or Houston School of Improv Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals Dance classes at Houston Metropolitan Dance Center and the Houston Ballet adult classes Float the river in New Braunfels or Schlitterbahn Water park adventures at Splashtown in Spring or Schlitterbahn in Galveston Critical Mass Houston Register to vote Researching candidates via League of Women Voters of Houston James Driver Inclusive Park 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 today's show, we'll hear an encore of a show from our archives that first aired in April. We'll be looking at the environmental impact of the rail industry and hear from people in two communities currently impacted by rail-related contamination. In February, a Suffolk Northern train carrying toxic chemicals derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, and residents are still recovering from the disaster over two months later. Residents like Jami Wallace and community organizations are fighting for relief. In Houston's Fifth Ward, residents have been living with the dire health effects of carcinogenic creosote used to treat railroad ties decades ago. Health officials have found cancer clusters in the neighborhood, where many have been devastated by the loss of friends, neighbors and loved ones. We'll hear a story from Living Downstream about the impacts to this close-knit community, where residents and organizers like Sandra Edwards continue to advocate for accountability and justice. Like this program? Please show us the love. Click here: http://bit.ly/3LYyl0R and support our non-profit journalism. Thanks! Featuring: Jami Wallace, community organizer and East Palestine resident Sandra Edwards, community organizer, member of Impact Fifth Ward and Impact Justice, and Fifth Ward resident Making Contact Staff: Host: Lucy Kang Producers: Anita Johnson, Salima Hamirani, Amy Gastelum, and Lucy Kang Executive Director: Jina Chung Interim Senior Producer: Jessica Partnow Engineer: Jeff Emtman Living Downstream Staff: Story: Generations in Houston's 5th Ward Contend With Contamination, Cancer Clusters Story producer: Laura Isensee Story editor: Steve Mencher Living Downstream founding producer: Steve Mencher President and CEO of Northern California Public Media: Darren LaShelle Story music: Minimal Documentary by penguinmusic via Pixabay Documentary by The Mountain via Pixabay Lobo Loco and Nine Inch Nails, under Creative Commons licenses Smithsonian Folkways Recordings for the use of music by the late Texas blues artist, Lightnin' Hopkins Learn More: Making Contact Homepage: www.radioproject.org Unity Council for EP Train Derailment petition urging President Biden to issue a Major Disaster Declaration for the Norfolk Southern train derailment: https://only.one/act/east-palestine Impact Fifth Ward: https://www.facebook.com/cleanupthecreosote Texas Standard's story and interview with reporter Laura Isensee: https://www.texasstandard.org/stories/houstonians-living-in-neighborhoods-with-high-rates-of-cancer-say-rail-yards-cleanup-plans-fall-short/ Spotify link to Living Downstream series, including the story heard on this episode: https://open.spotify.com/show/1tPKsb6vtQkuJjNrn5MEij Making Contact is a 29-minute weekly program committed to investigative journalism and in-depth critical analysis that goes beyond the breaking news. On the web at www.radioproject.org.
On Thursday's Houston Matters: Texas students saw technical issues in their first day of STAAR testing. And what do Latino parents want in a new HISD Superintendent? We learn more. Also this hour: In an attempt to stop drugs in state prisons at the beginning of the pandemic, officials stopped in-person visits and limited mail. A year later, the problem is actually worse. We learn more from Keri Blakinger of The Marshall Project and Jolie... Read More
Millions of people in Texas have gone three or more days without power, water or both. Texas has had winter weather before, so what went so wrong this time? Reporter Mose Buchele of NPR member station KUT in Austin explains why the state's power grid buckled under demand in the storm. And Marshall Shepherd, director of the Atmospheric Sciences Program at the University of Georgia, explains the link between more extreme winter weather and climate change. Additional reporting in this episode from NPR's Camila Domonoske, who reported on the Texas power grid, Ashley Lopez of KUT, Laura Isensee of Houston Public Media, and Dominic Anthony Walsh of Texas Public Radio. In participating regions, you'll also hear a local news segment that will help you make sense of what's going on in your community.Email us at considerthis@npr.org.
Millions of people in Texas have gone three or more days without power, water or both. Texas has had winter weather before, so what went so wrong this time? Reporter Mose Buchele of NPR member station KUT in Austin explains why the state's power grid buckled under demand in the storm. And Marshall Shepherd, director of the Atmospheric Sciences Program at the University of Georgia, explains the link between more extreme winter weather and climate change. Additional reporting in this episode from NPR's Camila Domonoske, who reported on the Texas power grid, Ashley Lopez of KUT, Laura Isensee of Houston Public Media, and Dominic Anthony Walsh of Texas Public Radio. In participating regions, you'll also hear a local news segment that will help you make sense of what's going on in your community.Email us at considerthis@npr.org.
On Tuesday's Houston Matters: HISD recently revised its sick leave policy informing principals that unless contact tracing shows a staff member is exposed to COVID-19 on campus, educators and school staff have to quarantine at home using their personal leave. But could the district be backtracking on that? News 88.7’s education reporter Laura Isensee has details. And a federal judge in Houston Tuesday is hearing arguments over the DACA program. The hearing stems from... Read More
On Tuesday's Houston Matters: Local teachers held a vigil and protest Monday calling for state officials to suspend STAAR exams, resume virtual learning, and make public school funding a priority in the next legislative session. The vigil and protest came on the eve of the latest in a string of “sick outs” by teachers in recent months in communities across the country, including one here back in October. News 88.7 education reporter Laura Isensee talks... Read More
On Monday's Houston Matters: This week, the Texas State Board of Education will vote on new sex education curriculum for the first time in two decades. News 88.7’s Laura Isensee explains how sex ed could be changing in Texas public schools. Also this hour: The biotech company Moderna announced today its experimental COVID-19 vaccine is 94.5% effective. That comes on the heels of similar news from Pfizer last week. We learn how those and other... Read More
Two Learner's Perspectives: Learning improvements in COVID? Local NPR reporter Laura Isensee interviewed two students about their experience with COVID. We tracked down these young learners to hear more about how learning has changed -- and improved?! -- during COVID. Here's an interview with learners for a change.
On Wednesday's Houston Matters: Laura Isensee provides an update on the challenges teachers are facing as the HISD website crashed and thousands of students still do not have digital access. Also this hour: We discuss the latest news in our weekly political roundup. Then, Bakari Sellers, the once youngest-ever member of the South Carolina state legislature, shares his wisdom on ethics and leadership in a virtual lecture series with the University of Houston. And Houstonian Don... Read More
On Thursday's Houston Matters: Spring Branch ISD Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Blaine discusses her district's back-to-school plans. Also this hour: As Spring Branch and other districts choose different back-to-school plans, Suzi Kennon, president of the Texas PTA, tells News 88.7’s Laura Isensee she hopes the well-being of students stays the focus of those plans. Plus: On this day 75 years ago, the United States dropped the first of two atomic bombs on Japan. We meet Ritsuko... Read More
On Thursday's Houston Matters: The U.S. Supreme Court upheld the DACA program in a 5-4 vote. We learn more about the ruling and what it means from Charles "Rocky" Rhodes from South Texas College of Law Houston. Also this hour: Quaker Oats announced it's retiring the Aunt Jemima brand and logo, acknowledging its origins are rooted in a racial stereotype. Thousands signed a petition asking H-E-B to require customers to wear face masks. Such intersections... Read More
On Wednesday's Houston Matters: A coalition of social justice groups is urging HISD to disband its school police force. Instead, they argue that money should be used to put more mental health counselors and social workers in schools. Also this hour: We discuss the latest news in our weekly political roundup. Then, we discuss how to best navigate a vast sea of misinformation – especially on social media – during major breaking news events, such... Read More
On Thursday's Houston Matters: We get some clarity about how Harris County's newly-approved COVID-19 relief program for vulnerable residents will work. There are some concerns the funds will be used up as quickly as the city's recent rent relief program. And the Houston Chronicle's Gabrielle Banks discusses a story she co-authored about COVID-19 in the Harris County Jail. Also this hour: We learn how the idea of summer vacation will be different this year amid... Read More
On Thursday's Houston Matters: The state is taking over the City of Houston’s Homeowners Assistance Program for those affected by Hurricane Harvey. We learn what this means for those whose homes were damaged by the 2017 storm. Plus we learn about new contact tracing efforts about to launch in Harris County. Also this hour: When could schools reopen and students and educators return to some semblance of normal? And what would that new normal be... Read More
On Friday's Houston Matters: Some private schools are closing their doors over the financial strain from the coronavirus. News 88.7’s education reporter Laura Isensee joins us to talk about that and other education stories stemming from the pandemic. And a new report raises concerns about jail populations and COVID-19. Also this hour: How bad is this our current economic crisis going to be -- will it be a recession or a depression? University of Houston... Read More
You can listen to this week’s episode of NEXT QUESTION with Ernie Manouse in the audio above. Below, you can find audio, video and photos of the various stories discussed on the show. Beyond the Story: Ayaan Agha loves playing puzzles, but his autism makes it hard for him to communicate and socialize. His parents say his inclusive school -- plus lots of outside therapy -- have helped him progress in pre-kindergarten. Ernie and Laura... Read More
It’s been just over a year since Hurricane Harvey hit the Texas Gulf Coast. The Category Four storm devastated small coastal communities and dumped 51 inches of water in Houston. Harvey flooded over 200,000 homes and nearly burst major dams. But that’s just the physical impact. Natural disasters can have deep emotional effects for us, too. On this episode, Houston-based journalist Laura Isensee reflects on how powerless she felt to do anything useful during the storm. It’s a story that gives us an inside look at what it’s like to experience, and report on, a natural disaster, and about what happens when you feel like you’re incapable of helping the situation.
New York Times reporter Katie Rogers and NPR film critic Bob Mondello join Sam to talk through the week that was: Hurricane Harvey and its aftermath, one woman's experience in the small Texas town of Refugio, and the view from Houston with Houston Public Media reporter Laura Isensee — then, in other news, the summer box office, upcoming movies, Prince's favorite color, Tom Brady's meal plan, six second television ads, and the Trump Hotel at night. More about how to help the Hurricane Harvey relief effort is at https://n.pr/2wiX1bS. Email the show at samsanders@npr.org and follow Sam on Twitter @samsanders.
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