City Cast Houston (City Cast)

The proposed megaproject to widen I-45 has been controversial for loads of reasons – including that it would displace many people of color, and destroy historic buildings in Independence Heights. But according to Tanya Debose, a fifth-generational Independence Heights resident – as well as founder of Preserving Communities of Color – TXDOT has listened to the concerns. Sealed into the environmental impact study are now every concession requested of it to that benefits the community. Today, Tanya breaks it down for Lisa, as they are joined by Amal Ahmed, a journalist who's written about the freeway project and who will soon lead a tour focused on its impacts. For more information about Preserving Communities of Color, visit Tanya Debose at History Is Not The Past. Also, make sure you follow us on Twitter! Visit the City Cast Houston Website and follow the Pod – get the Newsletter – the sum total of all of it will fill your mind with so much useful Houston knowledge you won't know what to do with yourself. Finally! Call our City Cast Houston Hotline and tell us all your Houston-y thoughts: It's 713-489-6972. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s been an eventful week – and not just here in Houston. Our planet felt the tremors of war on Thursday morning and with it, the instant demand for energy as rifts snaked throughout the world. As always, with its vast resources and technologies, Houston remains as internationally relevant as ever. Each Friday, City Cast Houston asks its correspondents to break down the most important Houston stories of the week, and the most underreported ones. Of course, today, the primary focus is on Russia and Ukraine - not just concerning energy, but the refugees-to-be who will surely need asylum here in Houston. Join Lisa Gray, Evan Mintz, and Shiyam Galyon as they discuss how this new war could be felt here in Houston. Make sure to follow us on Twitter - you can find new episodes linked there daily! City Cast Houston's Twitter And also, get subscribed to the City Cast Houston newsletter. It is meaty, relevant, and stuffed with all kinds of Houston-centric goodness that you are gonna love to know ... find it Here! You can also leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts and emojis! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode of City Cast Houston, it’s a Friday news round up! Todays topics include whether there’s much of a case to be made against aides of Lina Hidalgo for illegally steering a contract (Texas Monthly says it’s pretty flimsy), and if there’s a case to be made against the Museum of Fine Arts Houston for a piece that once was sold to a Nazi art collector. Also, with booster shots now available for Houstonians over 50 this week, will there be citywide motivation to get them with COVID numbers so low? Sign up for our newsletter! Lisa Gray crafts it each week day to spotlight everything that's important, cool and unique about this city we all love – you don't want to miss it! Our number is 713-489-6972. You can text or leave a voicemail. Let us know who's your vote for Houstonian of the Week! We’re also on Twitter - @CityCastHouston And Facebook! City Cast's Facebook Page. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a Friday round up! On this week’s episode, we discuss the ongoing conflict between Kim Ogg and Lina Hidalgo. Also on the agenda: Dan Patrick’s Don’t Say Gay push, the tragic catalytic convertor thefts around town, and a successful study showing surprising, positive data that involves the Houston Police Department. This week’s contributor is Evan Mintz, who joins Lisa Gray and Ferrill Gibbs. Sign up for our newsletter! Lisa Gray crafts it each week day to spotlight everything that's important, cool and unique about this city we all love – you don't want to miss it! Our number is 713-489-6972. You can text or leave a voicemail. Let us know who's your vote for Houstonian of the Week! We’re also on Twitter - @CityCastHouston And Facebook! City Cast's Facebook Page. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Art Car Weekend peaks Saturday when the 35th Annual Houston Art Car Parade rolls through downtown. The giant rolling chicken will be there — not to mention lowriders, slabs, the enormous roach, the car with a beaded foam Steve Ray Vaughan on top, and a new “Rising Strong” mechanical phoenix. Today, art-car artist Rebecca Lowe joins Lisa Gray to tell her all about it. Here’s a complete schedule of Art Car Weekend events! City Cast Houston's Website is where you can sign up for the pod *and* the newsletter! It'll make you a way better Houstonian. We have a number - text us! Call us! It's 713-489-6972. We’re on Twitter! Check us out: @CityCastHouston. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A lawsuit forced Harris County to release most people accused of misdemeanors while they await trial, rather than keep them in jail. Two years later, that’s working great, says City Cast Houston contributor Evan Mintz (who’s also Arnold Ventures’ communications manager for criminal justice issues). It’s the rare change supported by Crime Stoppers, the county sheriff and the ACLU. And it’s ridiculous to blame it for the rise in violent crime. Sign up for our newsletter! Lisa Gray crafts it each week day spotlighting everything that's important, cool and unique about this city we all love – you won't want to miss it! Our number is 713-489-6972. Text or leave a voicemail. We might just feature it on the show. We’re also on Twitter - @CityCastHouston And on Facebook! City Cast's Facebook Page. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Boozy groups pedaling party bikes are a fixtures of Washington Ave. and Eado, but Trill on Wheels is different: It’s a Houston hip-hop themed pedal party through historic Third Ward. Its four wheels are bedecked with swangers. Megan Thee Stallion and DJ Screw blast from its speakers. And if the pedaling partygoers aren’t karaoke-rapping to classics from the city’s past, they might be smoking a hookah. Today, owner Johnathan Mark joins City Cast Houston cultural correspondent Antréchelle Dorsey and me to talk about Trill on Wheels. Check out Trill On Wheels! Their website is here –– it's $35 a person, or $365 for your whole group. Sign up for the City Cast Houston newsletter! It's a great way to wake up to the news of the city every day. Our number is 713-489-6972. Text or leave a voicemail. We'd love to hear from you. We’re on Twitter - @CityCastHouston We're on Facebook! City Cast's Facebook Page. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Trump with Ted Cruz or against him these days? Is Tucker Carlson an ally or an enemy now? And one more time: What did Houston’s hometown senator really think of January 6? Keeping track of Cruz is harder than remembering Marvel Cinematic Universe lore — but Ben Wermund, the Houston Chronicle’s Washington correspondent, walks us through his twists and turns. Sign up for the City Cast Houston newsletter! It's a great way to wake up to the news of the city every day. Our number is 713-489-6972. Text or leave a voicemail. We'd love to hear from you. We’re on Twitter - @CityCastHouston We're on Facebook! City Cast's Facebook Page. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re approaching the peak of birds’ spring migration, which means that soon, thousands of birds will pass over your head each night. Scientists know remarkably little about how birds manage these epic journeys. On today’s podcast, Rice University professor Cin-Ty Lee joins City Cast contributor Scott Solomon to describe to Lisa Gray a fascinating project. In 2020, when the pandemic quieted the city, Lee set up a recorder on a Rice soccer field to catch the sound of birds as they flew overhead. He’s recorded eagles and peregrine falcons, and added roughly 30 species to the number of birds ever identified on the campus. Plus, he has a greater appreciation of just how thousands of birds migrate over us all here in Houston. Cin-Ty’s website includes his field notes, his paintings of birds, and a “Sounds of Nature” section. Scott Solomon will talk about how scientists at Rice University use the campus as a living lab to study biodiversity, April 20th. You can register here. City Cast Houston's Website is where you can sign up for the pod *and* the newsletter! It'll make you a way better Houstonian. We have a number - text us! Call us! It's 713-489-6972. We’re on Twitter! Check us out: @CityCastHouston. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It was once the Barbara Jordan Post Office, but Houston’s new downtown spot POST Houston has become a galleria-type oasis, custom made for the modern Houstonian. Complete with a (don’t call it a food court!) “food hall,” its beautiful stairwells offer cavernous spaces for patrons to lounge on blue bean bag chairs while considering the “convivial expression of our capitalistic exuberance.” Houston Chronicle’s opinion editor Raj Mankad (who uttered the aforementioned description of Post) joins City Cast Contributor Allyn West to break down for host Lisa Gray whether POST Houston is worth the hype. Here's City Cast Houston's Website - sign up for the podcast and the newsletter to be a way better Houstonian. Also! We are working on an episode on Houston's better angels - do you know somebody who's done something wonderful for you? A Houstonian who's changed your life ... for the better? Call us and tell us the story! It's 713-489-6972. We’re also on Twitter! Check us out: @CityCastHouston. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 2018 Lina Hidalgo shocked pretty much everyone in the world by winning an upset election to become Harris County's county judge -- basically, the chief executive of a county with a population larger than Louisiana's. She was 27 years old then, an immigrant from Colombia who'd never held public office before. She ran promising to clean up the way that Harris County does business. But this week, a Harris County grand jury indicted three of Hidalgo's aides on charges related to an $11 million contract. So, what is going on? Get the hottest Houston news straight to your inbox when you subscribe to our morning newsletter, click here. We're also Tweeting, follow us here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When the Galleria opened just before Thanksgiving in 1970, it changed how the country viewed shopping malls. It was massive, completely air conditioned, and away from downtown – it was designed to be its own destination spot. Now, over fifty years later, the Galleria isn't just existing, it might still be thriving. Today on City Cast Houston, the team chats about the Galleria and what it has meant to Houston throughout the years. Here's City Cast Houston's Website - sign up for the podcast and the newsletter to be a way better Houstonian. Also! We are working on an episode on Houston's better angels - do you know somebody who's done something wonderful for you? A Houstonian who's changed your life ... for the better? Call us and tell us the story! It's 713-489-6972. We’re also on Twitter! Check us out: @CityCastHouston. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, we look back at the week in news. Host Lisa Gray, Lead Producer Dina Kesbeh and La Opinion reporter Gustavo Rangel dive into the COVID-19 outbreak at Rice University that led to the administration reinstating a mask mandate for all students. They also talk about moments in Houston that brought them joy, and so much more. Never miss a beat, subscribe to our morning newsletter here. We're also on Twitter, so be sure to hit the follow button here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Friday! And on Fridays, Lisa Gray recaps the week in Houston news, like when Lizzo appeared on SNL. She dropped the name of a Houston street last weekend when she hosted *and* performed on Saturday Night Live. Also, Simone Biles dropped a new active wear line, and Texas teachers are leaving the trade in droves, overburdened and under-salaried and worn thin from Covid. Finally, the Steven Hotze drama led to a grand jury indictment this week. Our guest this week is film maker Rafa Farihah. Call us and help us! We want to know what exactly it means when people say, "It's the people who make Houston great!" Who makes Houston great that you know of - Call 713-489-6972. City Cast Houston's Website is the place to sign up for the podcast and the newsletter so you can be a way better Houstonian. We’re on Twitter! Check us out: @CityCastHouston. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Friday, and we're talking news. This week advocates for asylum seekers are calling for an investigation into Houston’s Asylum Office. Some of the reasons are over conducting fear interviews without the asylum seekers lawyers knowledge, and forcing asylum seekers to be interviewed in a language they don't know well. We also talk about an upcoming two year closure of a ramp in the most congested part of town and more news from around Houston. Here are the links to the Banh Mi mentioned in the episode: Hughie’s Oui Banh Mi Saigon Hustle Kim’s Pho & Grill Don'e miss the latest news, subscribe to our morning newsletter here. We're also Tweeting whatever thoughts come to mind, follow us @CityCastHouston. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Thursday, and this week the team chats about the best coffee in Houston: from Minuti Coffee to Koffeteria to 85°C Bakery Café. (Not to mention the places with the best whole beans for sale.) Since Houston is a caffeine town with no shortage of places to sip and enjoy the show, host Lisa Gray, lead producer Dina Kesbeh, and producer Ferrill Gibbs kick around what makes a great Houston coffee spot a great Houston coffee spot… What spots did we miss? What's the absolute best coffee in Houston that we failed to mention? Call us... or text us! 713-489-6972. City Cast Houston's Website is the place to sign up for the podcast and the newsletter so you can be a way better Houstonian. We’re on Twitter! Check us out: @CityCastHouston. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

People who are not Houstonians have no clue how full this city is of incredible sights to see, foods to taste, and cultures to experience. So! With so many choices, what's a great place you'd take an out-of-town guest if you had just one shot to show them the very best of Houston?Today, the City Cast Houston team offers up a variety of different spots, from Goode Company Barbecue to Kemah Boardwalk to Minute Maid Park – and that's just to name a few. Here's some others mentioned! The Natural Museum of Science Houston, Luce Coffee Roasters, The Boardwalk: Galveston's Historic Pleasure Pier, Pier 6 Seafood and Oyster House, and Memorial Park. Never miss a beat! Subscribe to our morning newsletter, here! We're also on Twitter, so be sure and follow us, here! Also, call us and help us! We want to know what exactly it means when people say, "It's the people who make Houston great!" Who makes Houston great that you know of - Call 713-489-6972. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This weekend, hundreds of Houstonians will play along with the city nature challenge. They’ll take photos of the wild things around them, upload them using a free app and experts will help identify exactly what bird, bug or animal or plant that they are looking at. Today we talk with conservationists and nature writer, Suzanne Simpson, who is one of this year's organizers. Want more Houston news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter here. We’re also on Twitter! Follow us at @CityCastHouston Not on social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should you get solar panels? Wouldn’t Houston be the perfect place for them to soak up so much glorious sunshine and save you money while reducing strain on the power grid? City Cast Houston host Lisa Gray recently installed solar panels on her roof, and she's a big fan. Today, she speaks with Hanna Mitchell, the Texas program director for Solar United Neighbors which is a nonprofit group designed to educate Houstonians interested in solar. If you want to get more information about solar from Hanna Mitchell and her team, Go here! City Cast Houston's Website is the place to sign up for the podcast and the newsletter so you can be a way better Houstonian. Speaking of that, we are working on an episode about "Houston's Better Angels" - do you know somebody who's done something wonderful for you? A Houstonian who's changed your life for the better? Call us and tell us your story! It's 713-489-6972. We’re on Twitter! Check us out: @CityCastHouston. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gaby Diaz is a teacher at Bellaire High School who recently penned an op/ed for the Houston Chronicle called, "Texas Teachers Don't Need A Task Force. We Need a New Governor." For Diaz, the past two years have been the most challenging of her 16 year career, as she and her colleagues have had to reinvent education on the fly. Adding to the difficulties caused by COVID, she and her peers have also become targets for politicians trying to score points in the Texas political game. You can check out Gaby's op/ed in the Houston Chronicle here. Never miss a beat! Subscribe to our morning newsletter, here! We're also on Twitter, so be sure and follow us, here! Also, call us and help us! We want to know what exactly it means when people say, "It's the people who make Houston great!" Who makes Houston great that you know of - Call 713-489-6972. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On April 29, to protest the latest wave of banned books, caravans from Houston and San Antonio will converge on Austin carrying books to launch underground libraries. The Librotraficantes, they call themselves: "Book smugglers." Tony Diaz, head of the organization, speaks with Lisa Gray on today's episode and swears that if "they ban our history, we're going to make more." Check out Tony's Website, and get all the information you need on the Librotraficantes! City Cast Houston's Website - sign up for the podcast and the newsletter to be a way better Houstonian. Also! We are working on an episode on Houston's Better Angels - do you know somebody who's done something wonderful for you? A Houstonian who's changed your life ... for the better? Call us and tell us the story! It's 713-489-6972. We’re also on Twitter! Check us out: @CityCastHouston. If you would like to check out our sponsor, go hear How to Buy a Home with David Sidoni! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With hurricane season just over a month away - a season forecast to be 130% more active than last year - the debate resumes over the "Ike Dike," a barrier along Galveston Bay to minimize death and destruction in the event of a 100 year storm. Evan Mintz, City Cast politics and policy contributor, believes that the Ike Dike should be the #1 concern for every Texas politician. A severe impact in the Houston ship channel could create an economic crisis for the entire country, and could devastate Houston, causing Chernobyl-like death and destruction. Here's City Cast Houston's Website - sign up for the podcast and the newsletter to be a way better Houstonian. Also! We are working on an episode on Houston's better angels - do you know somebody who's done something wonderful for you? A Houstonian who's changed your life ... for the better? Call us and tell us the story! It's 713-489-6972. We’re also on Twitter! Check us out: @CityCastHouston. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm sure you had a lot of epiphanies during the pandemic. That was definitely the case for Ivy Walls, who while working as an infection preventionist learned just how much of a food desert her neighborhood Sunnyside really is. So she did something about it by starting Ivy Leaf Farms. She talks to us about her five-acre farm and how a new grocery store is only the beginning. Check out what new things Ivy Leaf Farms is planning by visiting their website here. Love learning about cool Houstonians doing cool things? Then sign up for our newsletter. Want to follow some cool Houstonians on Twitter? Then make sure to follow @CityCastHouston. We're cool Houstonians, right? Not on social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When host Lisa Gray walked her dog on Monday, she saw a gnarly dark plume billowing over Southeast Houston. Turns out, that cloud was a “flare event” - spewing chemicals into the air the volume of nine Metro buses. To help her better understand what unseen elements can sometimes confront Houstonians on their dog walks, Jennifer Hadayia, of the Air Alliance Houston, and Luke Metzger, of Environment Texas, stop by to break it all down. If you would like to know more about Jennifer and Luke's organizations, you can check out the links below: Air Alliance Houston Environment Texas Also, make sure to check out Lisa's Facebook page (she's constantly getting things stirred up in Houston): Follow Lisa On Facebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Houston's crime rate on the rise and gun violence wreaking havoc on the city, finding a solution is on everyone's mind. It's why all but one council member, Letitia Plummer, voted for the gunshot detection technology. The technology has definitely drawn criticism and swirled many doubts, will this actually help reduce gun violence in our city? You'll have to listen to find out.  Today Lisa sits down with City Cast contributor, Evan Mintz, and with DeRay McKesson, host of the podcast, pod save the people and leader of campaign zero, a national nonprofit that advocates for data-driven policy to reduce police violence. Want all Houston's secrets? Even the down right weird ones? You'll have to sign up for our morning newsletter!  We're also on Twitter! Tweeting only when caffeinated to avoid typos...follow us at @CityCastHouston Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The day Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale donned a costume mattress and shouted “Gallery Saves You Money!” he became a Houston icon. From his wild wagers on the Super Bowl to his foray into politics - and to the touching moments in the wake of disasters when he opened his doors to help helpless Houstonians - love him or hate him, Jim McIngvale is as Houston as it gets. Today, City Cast Houston's Dina Kesbeh, Ferrill Gibbs and Lisa Gray bat around the topic of Mattress Mack as a Houston icon. Make sure to follow us on Twitter: City Cast Houston's Twitter And make sure to check out our web page where you can sign up for the newsletter - and of course subscribe to the pod! Go Here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New year, new things! Host Raheel Ramzanali is putting together the ultimate guide to Houston for January with producers AK Al-Moumen and Carlignon Jones. From music adventures to fitness classes, the trio are picking their must-do things around H-Town to start 2024.  Sloomoo Institute Gold Tooth Tony’s Pizza  Pilates classes around Houston  Green Mountain Energy Outdoor Ice Rink at Discovery Green (Open until January 28th) Ostia Houston  The Honey Hole  Parsifal at the Houston Grand Opera  Pictures from Home at the Alley Theatre  MLK Parade in Houston  Kid Flicks 2 at the MFAH  First Saturday Arts Market  *In the episode Carli mentions "The Rink" at Discovery Green as the ice skating rink, but that is the outdoor skating rink. The correct name is the Green Mountain Energy Ice Rink and it is open until January 28th. Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Instagram  Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! or leave us a voicemail/text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts, we love hearing from you! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let’s Talk! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s nothing like starting a new year off with health and fitness goals, but finding healthy places to eat at can be challenging. Host Raheel Ramzanali is bringing on Chef Rafael Nasr from Craft Pita to get his best picks of healthy restaurants, desserts, sandwiches, and more to keep us on track in 2024. Try these spots to stick to your healthy eating goals! Salad & Go Leaf & Grain Craft Pita Phoenicia Mo’ Better Brews Pokeworks  Juiceland Flower Child Dish Society Michael’s Cookie Jar 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

Recently, H-E-B was ranked #2 on a national survey - just behind Amazon. Today, the City Cast crew breaks down what makes H-E-B special… and what makes it especially Texan. (Not to mention the Texas-shaped tortilla chips.) Here's Dina's favorite drink H-E-B carries: H-E-B Sparkling Prickly Pear ...And here's the Texas-shaped Corn Tortilla chips Finally, help us prepare for an upcoming showdown between Whataburger and In n' Out! Just call the City Cast Houston line and tell us whose side you're on! (713) 489-6972. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy New Year! We’re starting the year off by taking full advantage of everything to do around H-Town this month. From trying out new food to joining community events that will give us a new appreciation for the city, and, of course, some recommendations for those new health goals you have, this is your guide to January 2025 in Houston!  January also marks the start of new administrations in our city government. Want to learn more about how Harris County's new District Attorney Sean Teare is going to change the DA’s office? He laid out his plan with us on City Cast Houston.  Our Recommendations for January 2025:  Rothko Chapel  City Girls Who Walk  Brazos Bend State Park  Sam Houston National Forest  Alabama Gardens in Third Ward MLK Day of Service at the YMCA Interfaith Voices for Peace Baso  Pok Pok Po All Bengal Sweets and Snacks  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

Happy new year! It’s already been a busy start to 2025 in Houston, so host Raheel Ramzanali is recapping some of the big news of the week with Monica Flores Richart, education activist and attorney, and Charles Blain, conservative commentator from the Urban Reform Institute. Plus, they’re making bold predictions for 2025 by filling out their Houston bingo cards — from potential new taxes at City Hall, new laws from the 89th Texas State Legislative session, wild weather, and so much more!  Death toll in New Orleans attack rises to 15; suspect lived in Houston Here are ways Houstonians can help victims of New Orleans attack that killed 15 and injured dozens HISD now projecting a $250 million budget deficit. Here’s what to know. Houston ISD lost more than 30,000 students in past decade as charter, suburban enrollment grew What does John Whitmire have to show for his first year as Houston mayor? Harris County’s New District Attorney Has Big Plans Texas Legislature will approve school vouchers and boost public education funds next year, Abbott says Houston Rep. Gene Wu to lead Texas House Democrats through GOP-dominated legislative session What Trump 2.0 Means for Houston 'Polar vortex' on the way to the U.S. Here's what that means for Southeast Texas Beyoncé Teases Mystery 2025 Project: Here’s Why Fans Are Convinced It’s a ‘Cowboy Carter’ Tour 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

It’s been one year since John Whitmire hung up his hat as a state lawmaker and took office as mayor of Houston. And H-town went through A LOT! So, how did Mayor Whitmire handle Houston’s ongoing challenges, and some unexpected surprises? Abby Church, the Houston Chronicle’s City Hall reporter, and Pulitzer Prize finalist Evan Mintz join host Raheel Ramzanali to discuss Whitmire’s big wins, his misses, and what’s ahead for his administration in 2025.  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 6th episode here: Downtown Houston+ Holocaust Museum Houston Museum of Fine Arts 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

As if the winter weather wasn’t enough to worry about, we now have to be on the lookout for a flesh-eating parasite. Yep, welcome to Texas! Host Raheel Ramzanali and Faith Bugenhagen, trending news reporter at Chron.com, are breaking down the biggest stories so far this week. They kick it off with former Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg’s new gig and then discuss why local universities are asking international students to return to campus early from winter break. (Hint, Inauguration Day is around the corner). Plus, can you guess what was the most stolen vehicle in Houston in 2024? Join us for that, and much more! Stories we discussed on today’s show:  Former Harris County DA Kim Ogg hired as senior policy advisor in commissioner’s office Texas universities ask international students to return from holiday travel before Trump inauguration Elon Musk’s brief Stanford affiliation raises questions about previous immigration status These 5 home developments will bring thousands of homes to Fort Bend's suburbs in 2025 Is your car one of Houston's most frequently stolen? What the data says. New Galveston County sheriff reportedly wants to end ‘Jeep Weekend,’ but state law may prevent that Two women arrested after police officer received serious head injury Officials ask Texans to watch for screwworms after flesh-eating parasite’s detection in Mexico Learn more about the sponsors of this January 7th episode here: Holocaust Museum Houston Museum of Fine Arts 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: Brandon Bell/Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you recovering from all of those holiday parties and cutting out alcohol for Dry January? If so, you’re in luck because Houston is packed with amazing mocktails and zero-proof drinks. Host Raheel Ramzanali is talking to Danny and Helenita Frounfelkner, the duo behind Sipple, Texas’ first non-alcoholic bottle shop, to learn why more people are embracing a month without booze, and where to get the best dry drinks in H-town. Check out the places we talked about on today’s episode: Events at Sipple  Eater Houston’s best mocktails  Houston Chronicle’s recommendations for Dry January  Coltivare’s Zero-Proof menu This conversation originally aired on Jan. 10, 2024. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 8th episode here: Holocaust Museum Houston Museum of Fine Arts 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 a GREAT city, but let’s be honest, between hours spent in traffic to endless amazing restaurants, it’s a real challenge to stay in shape! So, today host Raheel Ramzanali is bringing on Jack “Swole” Sultan, longtime fitness coach and nutritionist, to share healthy habits to stay on track for your wellness journey in 2025.  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 9th episode here: Holocaust Museum Houston Museum of Fine Arts 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 winter blast hit our unhoused neighbors hard, with few warming shelters available. Host Raheel Ramzanali talks with advocate Patricia Olivares, who’s spent nights on the streets to push for change. Plus, Monique Welch with the Houston Landing highlights how Black midwives are helping solve Houston’s Black maternal health crisis. And why does Gov. Abbott want Houston to sell water to West Texas? We’ve got the details! Stories we talked about on today’s episode:  Man found dead near Metro bus shelter following freezing temperatures in Houston Houston U.S. Attorney, first Asian American to hold post, to resign before Trump takes office Gov. Greg Abbott said to be exploring deal to send Houston water to West Texas From statistic to birth hero: How a midwife is solving Houston’s Black maternal health crisis Texas Children's cut its midwives group. That's bad news for Houston women. | Opinion A Houston agency was supposed to help Third Ward fight gentrification. It built a $22M tower instead. Low, lifted and lit-up: Houston’s truck owners flex their modified rides Learn more about the sponsors of this January 10th episode here: Holocaust Museum Houston Museum of Fine Arts 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: Sharon Steinmann/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 89th Texas Legislative Session starts this week, and what happens in Austin over the next six months could dramatically change life in Houston, from schools to betting on sports and much more. So, host Raheel Ramzanli is teaming with our friends at City Cast Austin to lay out the issues you need to know. Joining him are Eva Ruth Moravec, City Cast Austin’s executive producer, and KUT Austin’s political reporter Blaise Gainey to preview the session, highlight key lawmakers, and share some wildcard predictions. Because, after all, it’s Texas politics, and almost anything could happen! Learn more about the sponsors of this January 13th episode here: Holocaust Museum Houston Museum of Fine Arts 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

Are you tired of eating at the same old fast-food restaurants with your kids? Host Raheel Ramzanali and Meagan Clanahan, co-founder of HoustonMoms.com, have you covered! They’ve put together their recommendations for the best kid-friendly restaurants in Houston. From toddlers to teens, these places are great for parents, AND the grandparents, aunties, friends, caretakers and anyone else taking kids out to eat!  Check out their recommendations: Little Matt’s in West University Hobbit Cafe Clay’s Food & Drink in Katy Sharky’s Waterfront Grill in Kingwood  Coltivare  Crust Pizza  Cedar Creek Bar & Grill in the Heights Local Table Hungry’s  SpindleTap Brewery Barnaby’s  Texas Leaguer Brewing  The Rustic  Got Hungry Kids? We Have Kids Eat FREE Solutions! Babies & Beer: A Guide to Houston’s Kid-Friendly Breweries Learn more about the sponsors of this January 15th 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From hurricanes to traffic jams, life can be pretty crazy in this sprawling city we call home. So to help out new — and old! — Houstonians, we’re putting together a starter pack with all the essential items you need to survive and thrive in the Bayou City. Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by producer Carlignon Jones and Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis. And if you think we missed something, send us note at the contact info below!  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 16th 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s the Friday News Round Up! Host Raheel Ramzanali is digging into the latest controversy at HISD, and bringing the reporter who broke the scandal, Asher Lehrer-Small with Houston Landing. Find out how Superintendent Mike Miles and his administration failed to get board approval of almost $1 billion worth of contracts. Plus, the latest infighting within the Texas GOP, what school district is closing schools, and how to prep for the upcoming freeze!  Stories we talked about on today’s show:  HISD leaders failed to get board approval for up to $870 million in spending, records show More brutal cold prompts worries about Texas power grid Aldine ISD leaders pledge more communication, public meetings on proposed school closures Winners and losers from the Texas House speaker’s race MLK JR Oratory Competition MLK Grande Parade  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 17th 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: Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During his campaign, President Donald Trump vowed to crack down on immigration. Now that he’s officially back in the White House, we’re exploring how his policies could impact Greater Houston, home to over 1 million immigrants. Host Raheel Ramzanali is talking to Anna-Catherine Brigida, immigration reporter for Houston Landing, about what mass deportations could look like here, plus expected changes to immigration courts, DACA and other programs. Stories we talked about on today’s show:  2024 in immigration: Key policies affecting Houstonians, and what’s to come under Trump State Rep. Janis Holt says Trump administration will ‘attack’ immigration in Colony Ridge ‘I can’t live without my son’: Four nationalities hope for smooth reboot of parole program Learn more about the sponsors of this January 21st episode here: Holocaust Museum Houston Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Visit Amarillo 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

Lunar New Year is around the corner, so to welcome the Year of the Snake and 15 days of feasting and family, City Cast Houston is rounding up the best places to celebrate in H-town! Erica Cheng, food reporter at Chron.com, joins host Raheel Ramzanli for her top dining spots for Lunar Near Year. Plus they talk about how President Trump’s immigration policies are putting Houston chefs on edge, the latest on the Turkey Leg Hut drama, and Raheel drops a cookie opinion so hot that it left Erica speechless!  Here’s more about the restaurants and stories we talked about today: March Houston's top chefs uneasy ahead of new Trump era, immigration policy How Trump’s Immigration Crackdown Could Unfold in Houston ‘Have You Ever Met A Narcissist?’ Nakia Holmes, Co-Founder Of Turkey Leg Hut, Finally Breaks Her Silence On How Her Marriage Ruined Her Business Seoul Garden Restaurant Kimson Hong Kong Food Street ECK Bakery aka Egg Tart King  Tiny's Milk & Cookies, spinoff of Tiny Boxwoods, to debut Heights location Learn more about the sponsors of this January 22nd episode here: Holocaust Museum Houston Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Visit Amarillo 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 an amazing snow week! Host Raheel Ramzanali and ABC 13’s Pooja Lodhia recap the snow storms biggest winners and losers, from the power staying on to police doing donuts. Plus, some120 Texans from the Jan. 6 capitol riot received pardons from President Trump, raisinginteresting questions. And don’t miss our favorite Houston nominees in the James Beard Awards semifinalists!  Dive deeper into the stories we talked about in today’s show: Houstonians find unexpected joy in historic winter storm, breaking from past years' outages and fear HISD to reopen as Houston mayor spreads love for city's storm efforts Houston saw measurable snow for the first time since 2021. So why weren't there any mass outages? Houston officials report uptick in crashes across city due to icy conditions Volunteers clean up debris left from the snow day in Houston’s Hermann Park Caught on camera: Houston Police Department officers seen stunt driving in snow More than 100 Texans active in the Jan. 6 insurrection among those pardoned Trump pardons nearly all charged with Jan 6 US Capitol riot Vance says Capitol rioters guilty of violence should not be pardoned Houston's James Beard Award semifinalists Learn more about the sponsors of this January 24th episode here: Holocaust Museum Houston Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Visit Amarillo 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: Raquel Natalicchio/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Federal officials were out in Greater Houston this weekend, as agents began arresting dozens of immigrants across Texas and making good on the Trump administration’s pledge to crackdown. Host Raheel Ramzanali is breaking down the latest in local immigration news with Sam González Kelly, demographics reporter at the Houston Chronicle, from local Democrats’ response to resources for undocumented Houstonians. Plus, is Sugar Land’s suburban boom over? And the latest viral burger restaurant in Houston has a familiar, and controversial, name. Stories we talked about on today’s show:  Galveston County Sheriff's office assists federal law enforcement in arrests of illegal aliens Some Houston immigrants fear Trump's mass deportation plans. Others react with indifference. Immigrants in Houston’s courts will have one less resource after Trump’s changes DOJ orders federally funded legal service providers to stop providing support at immigration courts Need immigration legal aid? These Houston organizations offer free and low-cost services DEA Houston assists in deportation efforts across Harris County Trump wants mass deportations. These Houston-area Republican sheriffs can help him do it. What Houston ISD parents should know about President Trump's immigration crackdown After decades of growth, Sugar Land and some of Houston's largest suburbs are losing residents Houston ranks second nationally for rent affordability, real estate study finds Texas Senate proposes extensive school voucher-like program with $1 billion price tag Trump Burger is opening in Houston. Here's where. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 28th episode here: Visit Amarillo 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: Mayra Beltran/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Houston mayors have traditionally met with a lot of community groups. But grassroots organizers say that’s not happening with Mayor John Whitmire, who just finished his first year in office. Host Raheel Ramzanali talks with Leticia Gutierrez, director of government relations and community outreach at Air Alliance Houston, and Aswad Walker, associate editor at The Defender, about the issue — and some solutions. Here are the stories we discussed on today’s show:  Attention Mayor Whitmire: Black leaders need more access in 2025  Community organizers frustrated by lack of access, input in Mayor Whitmire’s first year  Learn more about the sponsors of this Jan. 27 episode here: Holocaust Museum Houston Babbel - Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST Visit Amarillo 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

No surprise here, but two of Houston’s most popular breakfast spots were just nominated as semifinalists for the James Beard Awards: Ema and Koffeteria! They’re just a taste of the many amazing breakfast options H-town has to offer. Host Raheel Ramzanali is talking with Bao Ong, restaurant columnist at the Houston Chronicle, about the best breakfast spots you need to try, from classic eggs and pancakes to dim sum! Recommendations from today’s conversation:  The top 25 breakfast spots in Houston Kolache Shoppe Tel-wink Grill in the East End Sunrise Taquitos Vibrant Common Bond White Tile Café Taste of Mulan Learn more about the sponsor of this January 29th episode here: Visit Amarillo We’re doing a survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast City swag. 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

February may be the shortest month, but it is packed with celebrations and happenings. Survive the winter doldrums with our monthly guide to Houston! In this episode, we’ve got expert tips and recommendations that you won’t hear anywhere else, from the best cozy hot chocolate in Houston to a hidden gem in the East End for some self-care. We’re also celebrating Lunar New Year this month. Check out our recommendations here for the best festivals in Houston and must-try restaurants.  Places we recommended for February 2025:  R&B on Ice  Galentine’s Day at Trebly Park  West Side Story at the Houston Grand Opera  Wanderstay Boutique  Pur Noire Urban Wineries  Lit Java Coffee & Books  Soul 2 Soul Cafe in Galveston  Mardi Gras in Galveston Fellini Café La Pasha  Mensho Where to Celebrate Lunar New Year in Houston  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 30th episode here: Visit Amarillo We’re doing a survey to learn more about our listeners. We’d be grateful if you took the survey at citycast.fm/survey—it’s only 7 minutes long. You’ll be doing us a big favor. Plus, anyone who takes the survey will be eligible to win a $250 Visa gift card–and City Cast City swag. 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 was a week full of confusion as President Trump’s administration looked to pause federal funding and grants across the nation. Although it has been rescinded as of now, a lot of questions about how city services would be impacted remain. Host Raheel Ramzanali is talking to Abby Church, city hall reporter for the Houston Chronicle, to get those answers. Plus, they’re looking at why egg prices keep increasing and the significance of this year’s Coalition for the Homeless count. Stories we talked about on today’s show:  Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on Mental Health, Marriage, and Tying the Knot in Something Pink (by a Houston Designer, of Course) Texas AG’s office moves to dismiss charges against two of Lina Hidalgo’s former staffers Trump's pause on federal loans and grants rescinded. Here's what you need to know. Texas egg prices expected to keep rising due to bird flu, expert says CFTH Leading Annual Count & Survey of People Experiencing Homelessness in the Houston Area This Week Coalition for the Homeless' 2024 Point-in-Time Count Results Show 33% Decrease in Unsheltered Homelessness Since 2020 Houston icons show out for Netflix’s ‘Mo’ season 2 premier at River Oaks Theatre Help us make City Cast Houston even better by taking our listener survey here.  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 31st episode here: Visit Amarillo 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: Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A few weeks ago, a glowing op-ed appeared in the LA Times: “What Can Houston Teach Los Angeles About Solving Homelessness?” This article referenced the way Houston has more-than-halved its homeless population in the past decade and hailed it as a national model. Now, as Houston seeks to eradicate homelessness entirely, The Beacon – a nonprofit organization serving the Houston homeless community – has transformed into a gathering spot for those in need. Because the homeless often wait outside the building during off hours and sleep on the sidewalks, huddling close to their belongings, a tension has sparked amongst residents from the neighborhood and the homeless who suddenly feel harassed. The police are now involved, and they've intensified their presence recently, and now, they're writing citations – even making arrests whenever they see fit. Rebecca Schuetz – Houston Chronicle writer covering homelessness – speaks with Lisa about the status of the homeless population filling that curbside, and what hopes they may have through Houston’s heralded housing program to finally make it off the streets and into a real home. You can read Rebecca's piece on The Beacon here: Frustration Mounts Over Houston Rules on Sitting ...and the op-ed that appeared in the LA Times that praised Houston's efforts: What Could Houston Teach Los Angeles About Curbing Homelessness? Finally, make sure to join our newsletter, here! Got something you want to tell us? Don't feel like typing?? Call our City Cast Houston hotline: 713-489-6972 and leave us a message ;) And here's our Website! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Would Houstonians ever eat insects, not just as a fear factor kind of dare, but because they are delicious? Chef Hugo Ortega, best known for Hugo's and Xochi, and Dr. Scott Solomon, entomologist at Rice University and City Cast Houston contributor, join us today to tell us the benefits of eating bugs. Today's episode will either leave you salivating for a cricket, or make you run for the hills. Do you want the juiciest Houston news delivered straight to your inbox? Then subscribe to our morning newsletter here. We're also on Twitter, only tweeting when we're fully caffeinated. Follow us @CityCastHouston Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Karankawa tribe was long thought to be extinct but Absolem Yetzirah, a Karankawa native and Council-member of the Five Rivers Council, proves the tribe is alive in the heart of the Houston metro area. It's a history that goes back to the first settlers of the gulf coast and the human cost of the founding of the State of Texas. Learn more about Karankawa History. Sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston! It has all the local news you need! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram We want to hear your thoughts, leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do we want out of Houston this year? City Cast guests and contributors offer suggestions — and a few predictions. Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston Follow us on Twitter and Instagram Don’t have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Usually the City Cast crew talks about Houston’s greatest stuff, the places and experiences you want to share with people you love. But life isn’t all Discovery Green and crawfish. Today the crew dishes about the experiences you’d wish on your archnemesis — the worst miseries that our city has to offer. Our morning newsletter Hey Houston brings updates on local news to you daily. Sign up here. Make sure you stay connected to us by following us on Twitter and Instagram @CityCastHouston Or leave us a voicemail/text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! We love hearing from you!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s time to hash out the week’s news. Contributor Shiyam Galyon, producer AK Al-Moumen and host Lisa Gray discuss the biggest stories — and the ones that should have gotten more attention. This week's biggest stories: Texas and Florida are the future of the U.S. Harris County election post-mortem. Southwest Airlines has a meltdown over the holidays. This week's most underrated stories: 2 Texas Business men with ties to former TX Governor Rick Perry pitched overturning the election to Trump. The Houston Art Scene is thriving and discovering new challenges. A moment of joy: The stolen sarcophagus lid hiding in Houston. Jim Love's Flowers Sculpture at the Menil. Keep up with what's popping in Houston daily by subscribing to our Hey Houston newsletter! Keep up with us on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook! Keep us up on what y'all are doing but texting or leaving a voicemail at +1 713-489-6972! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Think ballet is boring? You haven’t seen Harper Watters strut his glam stuff on Instagram. For more check out Harper's website or the Houston Ballet.  Also follow Harper on Instagram and TikTok Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Twitter and Instagram  Don’t have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every two years the Texas State Legislature convenes for a few frantic months of lawmaking. The last session brought extraordinary new restrictions on abortion. City Cast contributor Evan Mintz says that this session promises to be just as sweeping. Where to find the names of your elected officials and how to contact them: www.texastribune.org/directory. Where to find and track bills as they move through the Legislature: capitol.texas.gov. Get deeper into the city by subscribing to our daily newsletter, Hey Houston! Follow us on Twitter to get updated on what we're doing! Follow us on Instagram to see what we're doing! Leave us a text or voicemail at +1 713-489-6972 and let us know your thoughts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Once upon a time, the nightclub District 1960 featured performers like Megan Thee Stallion and Slim Thug. Then the pandemic forced owner Robert Thomas to shut down. So he took a chainsaw to the place — and transformed it into a sleek health-food store. Now District Market Green Grocer specializes in produce, fresh juices, and locally made products from Black vendors. Want to know more about Houston's first black-owned grocery store? Check out their website here! OR take a peak at these feature articles: Inside Houston's groundbreaking Black-owned supermarket, which was a nightclub in a past life Shut down by COVID, Houston nightclub transforms into grocery store to support Black vendors Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Twitter and Instagram Don’t have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yes, Houston has two MLK parades at the same time. The City Cast crew elaborates — and offers other ways to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and enjoy a three-day weekend. 45th Annual Original MLK Jr. Parade in Downtown Houston. MLK Festival at Houston City Hall. 29th Annual MLK Grande Parade in Midtown. Rothko Chapel. The Houston Museum of African American Culture. Dreams, Art & Freedom: Martin Luther King Celebration at La Centerra. Black Heritage Society Gala at Embassy Suites by Hilton Houston West - Katy. The Marriage of Figaro at The Houston Grand Opera. Riots & Scandals Festival at The Houston Symphony. New Jack City: Live on Stage at the Hobby Center. Jay Pharoah at The Improv. If you want more! subscribe to our daily newsletter, Hey Houston! To keep up with us during the long weekend follow us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook! And if you just want to tell us what you're up to this weekend, text us or leave us a voicemail at +1 713-489-6972 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jen Rice, who covers Harris County for the Houston Chronicle, helps host Lisa Gray get her head around a wild week in Houston news. The Texas Legislature is in session! Here is what you need to know. Nine Republicans are challenging the November election results. Alexandra del Moral Mealer is leading the charge on contesting the election. Does Mealer's challenge hold any validity? Lina Hidalgo is currently on personal leave. The first Muslim representatives to be sworn to the Texas Legislature. The head of Harris County Jail resigned! To keep up with the daily goings on in Houston, subscribe to our daily newsletter: Hey Houston! Follow us on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook for the latest updates on what we're doing Keep us up to date with what's happening with you by leaving us a text or voicemail at +1 713-489-6972 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Texas Legislature is awash in lobbyists pushing for Texas to expand legal gambling. So is this finally the year that the state says yes to casinos and online sports betting? City Cast political contributor Scott Braddock explains why the odds are against that — and also why legislators keep noodling with those bills anyway. Want to know more? Check out these articles: Houston lawmaker says there's bipartisan support for legalized gambling heading into 2023 session Patrick: No ‘Movement’ On Texas Sports Betting As Session Opens Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston Follow us on Twitter and Instagram Don’t have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Legendary producer Sean 'Solo' Jemison was instrumental in defining Houston’s Hip-Hop sound in the '90s with countless hits under his belt and work with major acts such as ESG, Lil Keke, Big Pokie, and Z-Ro! You cannot discuss Houston rap without the influence of Solo! Now he is using that sound to educate children by mixing his passion for hip-hop into his new upcoming animated series. Get to know the city by subscribing to our daily newsletter, Hey Houston! Follow us on Twitter to read what we're doing! Follow us on Instagram to see what we're doing! Leave us a text or voicemail at +1 713-489-6972 and let us know what you are doing! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s Lisa Gray’s last week at City Cast Houston, so she and the City Cast crew revisit some of the episodes she loved most. Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! Want to hear some of Lisa's favorites? Reader call-in: Tales from the 610 Loop Jaime González: Google Earth images tell the tale of Houston  Keri Blakinger: What went wrong in Texas’ deadliest prison escape  Adán Medrano: The ancient joy of Texas tamales Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Twitter and Instagram Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Don’t have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happened this week in Houston? Podcaster Mohammad Usman Aijaz and producer Carlignon Jones join host Lisa Gray for her final news roundup. More on the stories talked about today: Miss Universe pageant denies rigging allegations after Houston native and Filipina-American R'Bonney Gabriel was crowned the 71st Miss Universe winner. March Madness Final Four will be played in Houston. The University of Houston Cougars basketball team is no. 1 in the country. Representative Troy Nehls claims his right to smoke a cigar in his office is "About Freedom". University of Texas bans TikTok on their campus Wi-Fi. Bitty & Beau's is a Houston hot spot that takes inclusivity seriously. The New York Times' 36 hours in Houston is actually good. Travel and Leisure also pulled off a decent guide of our city. Don't miss out on getting your half-price Rodeo Carnival tickets. Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! Keep up with what's going on in Houston in 2023 by subscribing to our daily newsletter, Hey Houston! Keep up with us by following us on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook! Keep us up with you, by leaving us a text or voicemail at +1 713-489-6972 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Houston is famous for its big-hearted philanthropists. But not all of them have big money: Today we’re talking with truck driver Ferrell Surette, the founder and el jefe of Recycled Cycles. Follow Recycled Cycles Of Texas on Instagram to keep up with their events. Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! Keep up with what's going on in Houston in 2023 by subscribing to our daily newsletter, Hey Houston! Keep up with us by following us on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook! Keep us up with you, by leaving us a text or voicemail at +1 713-489-6972 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

City Cast contributor Jaime González explains the deep history and surprising substrates of our daily commutes. Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Twitter and Instagram  Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! or leave us a voicemail/text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts, we love hearing from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Earlier this month Mayor Whitmire and the firefighters union agreed on a settlement that solved a longstanding contract dispute, but what will be the impacts of that deal on Houstonians? From potential tax implications to talks of a trash fee, Houston Public Media’s government reporter Andrew Schneider joins host Raheel Ramzanali to explain it all.  Learn more here: Response times and financial impacts of the new firefighters deal Check out more of Andrew’s work here City Cast Houston is hitting the road for a live taping on April 5th before the Houston Rockets vs Miami Heat game. You will need a ticket to the game to attend the live taping, but don’t worry, we have discounted tickets available right now on this link with promo code CITYCASTHTX. The City Cast Houston team will be sitting in section 403 (Only $36!) for the game, but you can also use the code to sit anywhere else you’d like for a discounted price! The live taping will start at 5:30 p.m. CST and doors will open at 5 p.m. for City Cast Houston guests. 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

Harwin Drive is the place many say you can find almost anything your heart desires. No matter if its clothing, party supplies, jewelry, or furniture this street has it all! This bargain shopping strip near Hillcroft Street in Southwest Houston has been called “Houston’s best-kept secret,” and today we’re unveiling it with Sam Kesbeh, who has owned a shop there since 1987 and who also happens to be City Cast Houston Lead-producer Dina Kesbeh’s dad. We're digging into Harwin’s past, present, and future! 15 major developments headed for Houston in 2023 and beyond  Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! Keep up with what's going on in Houston in 2023 by subscribing to our daily newsletter, Hey Houston! Make sure you stay connected to us by following us on Twitter and Instagram @CityCastHouston Or leave us a voicemail/text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! Or if you have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Houston does food right, there’s no debate there. But did you know it’s also crowned for having one of the largest lists of diverse halal restaurants? From Tex-Mex, to BBQ to crepes, the list is long. Here to explore just what makes food halal and how the halal food scene exploded in our city is Faraz Ahmed. He’s one of the people behind the Instagram and TikTok pages, The Halal Palate. He joins lead producer Dina Kesbeh and producer AK AL-Moumen to also share his go-to spots. For More on The Halal Palate check out their TikTok and Instagram More on Aga's here More on Pinkerton's here More on M&M Grill here More on True Dog here More on Coco's Crepes here Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Twitter and Instagram  Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! or leave us a voicemail/text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts, we love hearing from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happened this week in Houston? Here to talk all about it are Producer Carlignon Jones, producer AK AL-Moumen and contributor Antrechelle Dorsey. They discuss the Tornado that ripped through areas near Houston, the passing of a beloved influencer in our city, how we've been name the dirtiest city in America, and so much more. More on the tornado aftermath here More on the Texans couch hunt here More on the developments coming to Houston here More on Randy Gonzalez here More on who is callin' us dirty here More on UH Film Club here Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Twitter and Instagram  Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! or leave us a voicemail/text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts, we love hearing from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We all talk about how traffic has gotten so much worse in our city and most of the time people conclude its likely due to overcrowding, and people just keeping moving to our city. But, that’s not exactly the case. Contributor Evan Mintz joins lead producer Dina Kesbeh to talk about how our population is shrinking and what might be the cause. More details on what we talked about: Houston is Shrinking. This is happening all over the country. Census numbers could be inaccurate. Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Twitter and Instagram  Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! or leave us a voicemail/text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts, we love hearing from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The epidemic of people experiencing homelessness has been a problem all over America, but after being praised by The New York Times for housing over 25,000 people, Houston seems to be on track to possibly solving the problem. Producer Carlignon Jones talks with Anna Rauch of the Coalition for the Homeless of Houston about how an annual survey is used to help us get closer to housing more of the unhoused. Want to learn more? Check out the Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County's website You can also find out more about how our city housed 25,000 people by reading this New York Times article! Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Twitter and Instagram  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!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s been 100 days since Chris Hollins took over as city controller and A LOT has happened! Host Raheel Ramzanali is talking to Controller Hollins about the hardest part of job so far, how the new firefighter settlement will impact the city’s financial future, and how the city can help balance the budget.  Learn more about Controller Hollins  SENDS:  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 Buffalo Bayou is a 52-mile river that flows through the heart of our city. It’s home to some of the most beautiful parks. It seems these days, we’re also learning more about the different species of fish that live between the murky waters of our Bayou. But one fish in particular seems to be in the headlines more often these days; the Alligator Gar. Today, contributor Scott Solomon and Kory Evans, assistant professor of BioSciences at Rice University, join lead producer Dina Kesbeh to talk about the different species that live in the Bayou and the evolution of their body shapes. Click here to listen to Wild World More on the Alligator Gar here Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Twitter and Instagram  Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! or leave us a voicemail/text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts, we love hearing from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What’s your favorite style of pizza, New York, deep dish, pan style, Italian? How do you like your pizza, stone oven, baked, round or square? Do you know what Detroit style is? Well Houston has got you covered, there is a pizza style for any taste palate. Even for you pizza haters out there like our very own producer Carlignon Jones, we bet that after listening to lead producer Dina Kesbeh, producer AK Al-Moumen, and newsletter editor Brooke Lewis tell you about the best pizza in town and where you can find a pizzeria that’ll make you a za believer. Brooke's picks Coltivare bellagreen Home Slice AK's picks: Pizaro's Pizza Napoletana Vinny's Love Buzz Pizza Pub Dina's picks: Frank’s Pizza Empire Pizza Star Pizza Homework: Pink’s Pizza at 2726 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005 Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! or leave us a voicemail/text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts, we love hearing from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re known for our medical center and health innovations here in H-Town, but recent headlines are making host Raheel Ramzanali question what’s going at the med center. First, he’s talking to Houston Chronicle health reporter Julian Gill about the Memorial Herman transplant scandal and what exactly happened with patients being taken off a donor database. Then, he’s talking to Dr. Erica Giwa of Legacy Community Health about why black maternal mortality rates are so high in a city that is known for healthcare. Learn more: Julian Gill’s reporting on the Memorial Herman transplant scandal  Help the Chronicle find patients impacted by the transplant scandal Learn more about Dr. Erica Giwa  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, which means it’s that time of the week where we see what Houston’s talking about. Lead producer Dina Kesbeh, producer Carlignon Jones and political contributor Evan Mintz talk about a returning Texans player named coach, Harris County’s childcare expansion plan, Beyonce’s Houston tour dates and more. More on HEB policy story here More on Beyonce here More on Texan's Coach here More on childcare expansion here More on pensions here Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! We're doing a Valentine's Day love story edition, and we'd love to hear how you fell in love in this great city. Text/call us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts, we love hearing from you! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Although Valentines day is suppose to be a day to celebrate love, for many people it just brings sadness. Most people feel like the holiday is only for couples but, truthfully its a great time to love on yourself! Therapist Maliha Khan, who runs the Instagram page Mental Health with Maliha, is here with lead producer Dina Kesbeh to tell us all about ways to practice self-love. Get more tips by following Maliha on instagram @mentalhealthwithmaliha Or book a session!  Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Twitter and Instagram  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!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The special day of love is approaching and the city of Houston has a lot of fun things to offer to help you get in the spirit! Whether you’re celebrating galantines, spending time with your lover, or trying to find something kid friendly to do for date night contributor Antre'chelle Dorsey and lead producer Dina Kesbeh have you covered! The Warwick Juliet a'Bouzy Post Houston Galentine's Market Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! We're doing a Valentine's Day love story edition, and we'd love to hear how you fell in love in this great city. Text/call us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts, we love hearing from you! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the show, host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by Hey Houston newsletter editor Brooke Lewis to talk about the biggest stories impacting H-Town to start the week. From a look at the latest information from HPD regarding the suspended cases to new scams impacting residents, Raheel and Brooke break it all down! Featured stories: 34 charges filed in review of suspended cases  Houston Texans jersey leaked online Measles cases are on the rise  Houston concert goers get scammed  Early voting is underway for May 4th election Fort Bend Sheriff’s Office warns residents of scams  How to protect yourself from cyber and phone scams episode  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

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, we know people all over are getting ready for datenights. Which can be fun-filled, but what about those dates that leave a sour taste in your mouth? Torrina Harris is here to read Call it a Good Time, a poem dedicated to all the woes of dating in Houston.  Want to know more about Torrina? Follow her on Twitter @votefortorrina or on Instagram @torrina_ or @torrinaforgalveston! Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Twitter and Instagram  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!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s no secret Houston is extremely vast and really spread out. Living in the suburbs and possibly going on a date with someone in Galveston just makes it feel like a long distance relationship. Join the team this week as they talk about why dating in our city is so complicated and hear them share their tips on how to combat the single life. It is hard to date in Houston! But we got some date ideas for you: The Aurora Picture Show. Houston Botanic Garden. The Japanese Garden. Write About Now at Avant Garden. Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Twitter and Instagram For more date ideas! Don’t have social media? Then leave us a voicemail or text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your own Houston love story! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week Producers Carlignon Jones and AK ALMoumen are joined by politics contributor Evan Mintz to round up the week’s biggest and most impactful stories. and developments in ongoing news that affect all Houstonians. More details on this week’s major stories: ABC 13’s reporting on Harris County Jail victims’ families in Austin. Houston Landing Reporting on the families of inmates killed in Harris County Jail. 55 Million Gallons of waste have been dumped into Houston waterways since 2019. A six-year old child was reportedly molested on an Aldine ISD school bus now his mother wants justice.  There is a fatal flaw with the Ike Dike design. Affordable housing in Houston might not actually be “affordable”  Houston Greater Metro Area has seen a significant drop in crime in comparison with other metro areas. The Texas House seems to be a model for bi-partisan partnership. Mardi Gras is just as authentic in Galveston island as New Orleans.  Bun B is about to bring some Louisiana flavor to his Houston Rodeo performance this year. Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! or leave us a voicemail/text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts, we love hearing from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Back in the day, Houston was flush with charming weirdos. People made strange stuff here: We had the Orange Show, the Beer Can House, and art cars galore. But where’s our new generation of eccentrics? On today’s show we discuss this with contributors Allyn West and artist Phillip Pyle II, who’s working on a 20' monument for the Flower Man. Check out Phillip Pyle's art on his website, here! Also, make sure to check out Allyn West's twitter, here! Finally, subscribe to City Cast Houston's podcast. Become an uber-fan by subscribing to our newsletter here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week, Memorial Park’s Kinder Land Bridge & Cyvia and Melvyn Wolff Prairie were unveiled at "Texas’ Biggest Picnic." City Cast contributor Shiyam Gaylon sits down with Shellye Arnold, President and CEO of Memorial Park Conservancy, to discuss the monumental effort, and producers AK ALMoumen & Carlignon Jones visit the ribbon cutting ceremony, where they chat with the Mayor and some of the project partners. The first phase of the Memorial Tunnels is open now. Rich and Nancy Kinder have donated a total of 281 Million dollars to Houston parks. The Cyvia and Melvyn Wolff Family Foundation had donated 10 Million dollars to the project. The Emily Clay Family Donated 3.5 Million to the project. Interested in being the new host of City Cast Houston? Click here to apply! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! or leave us a voicemail/text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts, we love hearing from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A new independent, nonprofit digital media group has officially launched in our city. Houston Landing will be covering Houston and the surrounding areas with a focus on hearing from the communities they cover directly. So, how do they fit in our current media landscape? What can we expect from their coverage? Mizanur Rahman, the editor in chief, joins lead producer Dina Kesbeh to talk about how they plan to do things differently from our current news sources. More on Houston Landing here Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! or leave us a voicemail/text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts, we love hearing from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every year a group of volunteers gather at Christmas Bay to help pick up abandoned crab traps in Texas waters. Its a wet and dirty job that needs to get done. Jim Olive joins lead producer Dina Kesbeh to talk about the importance of keeping our waters free of these “ghost traps” and how leaving them behind poses a danger to our marine life. Want to know more about how you can help remove these dangerous crab traps? Check out the Christmas Bay Foundation online! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Twitter and Instagram  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!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Houstonians are passionate about their doughnuts: Is it light and crispy? Is it too heavy? Is it just a chunk of wet fried dough? Or maybe it’s too sweet, too lurid, or gives you thoughts of the “diabeetus” guy? At any rate, the Canadian fast food chain Tim Hortons has dared set up shop here, which prompts a City Cast team discussion of what’s good in the Houston doughnut world: Krispy Kreme vs. Shipley’s, or maybe all the great boutique shops like Voodoo Doughnut. So... will the newcomer with the Justin Bieber tie-in (a.k.a. the "Timbiebs Doughnut") even stand a chance in Houston? Visit our Website! You can sign up for the newsletter there, and subscribe to the podcast. (We promise, it will make you a much better Houstonian!) Also, join us on twitter! We are gaining steam every day... Finally, if you would like to speak to us using your human voice, call us on the City Cast Houston Hotline! It's 713-489-6972 - leave us a message! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, we’re putting on our boxing gloves and knee pads as we debate which city is the best in America. Join culture contributor Antrechelle Dorsey and City Cast Chicago lead producer Carrie Shepherd as they discuss why their city should be crowned the best. Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Twitter and Instagram  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!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s Friday, which means where looking back to talk about the news that’s been in the headlines in Houston. Contributors Evan Mintz and Shiyam Galyon join lead producer Dina Kesbeh to talk about the new provision Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee added to the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act called, “Tyre Nichols Duty to Intervene”. They’ll also discuss the new food market that aims to lure remote workers back to the office, the FBI investigation into the death of 32 Harris County detainees, and much more. More on evictions here More on the new farmers market here More on the pipeline here Our morning newsletter Hey Houston brings updates on local news to you daily. Sign up here. Make sure you stay connected to us by following us on Twitter and Instagram @CityCastHouston Or leave us a voicemail/text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! We love hearing from you!  Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s already a busy start to the week with so many stories to know about so host Raheel Ramzanali is bringing on ABC13 reporter Chaz Miller to recap some of the big ones. The duo start things off with by talking about the economic impact of healthcare access disparities, then jump to rapid fire where hemp products might get regulation, and then they’re ending with a story so wild that it can only happen in H-Town! Featured stories: How unequal access to healthcare is impacting our citizens and economy  It’s about to get really hot again The trial of Brian Coulter  Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick takes aim at Delta-8 and Delta-9 products  Why this sailboat has been stranded on Galveston shores  Houston mom leaves kids alone for cruise  IRS event canceled after fight  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

Imole Ayo Ladipo is proving to the world that women can have it all by being an engineer, wife, mother of 3, AND a double business owner! With the founding of her companies Lumîérè Films and Lumi culture, Imole is defying the odds and showing what black girl magic really looks like. She sat down with Producer Carlignon Jones to talk about the unique way she balances it all.  Learn more about Imole and her businesses by visiting her socials! Instagram: @lumi.culture and @thelumierefilms Website: Lumiere Films Our morning newsletter Hey Houston brings updates on local news to you daily. Sign up here. Make sure you stay connected to us by following us on Twitter and Instagram @CityCastHouston Or leave us a voicemail/text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts! We love hearing from you!  Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Houston is known for its diversity but in Alief, that diversity is amplified to the max! This neighborhood is known for its culture, food, and the stars it raised! City Cast Houston Lead Producer, Dina Kesbeh, who grew up in the area sits down with two of her high school classmates Firas Abulawi and Christina Phan to reminisce on the beauty of the neighborhood.  Phoenicia Speciality Foods Fadi's Mediterranean Cuisine Aga's Restaurant Pho Dien Don Café & Sandwich Keep up with what's going on in Houston by subscribing to our daily newsletter, Hey Houston! Keep up with us by following us on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook! Keep us up with you, by leaving us a text or voicemail at +1 713-489-6972  Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you tired or bored of going to AMC or Cinemark over and over again. Well buddy City Cast Houston’s lead producer Dina Kesbeh, newsletter writer Brooke Lewis and producers Carlignon Jones & AK ALMoumen have teamed up to give you the most intimate, interesting and underrated movie going spots in the city that will have you remember why movies are so magical! Our Recommendations: Movies at Market Square Park Discovery Green presents Screen on the Green Rooftop Cinema Club The Showboat Drive-in Theater MFAH Films 14 Pews Theater Alamo Drafthouse LaCenterra Star Cinema Grill Aurora Picture Show Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston Follow us on Twitter and Instagram Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! or leave us a voicemail/text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts, we love hearing from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It is this time of the week again and the City Cast crew lead producer Dina Kesbeh and producer Carlignon Jones are joined by politics contributor Evan Mintz to round up the biggest stories impacting Houston this week. LINKS: Tesla Engineering HQ is moving from Travis County back to California. Mattress Mack is launching a website to collect evidence of voter disfranchisement. Houston is getting new floodplain maps.  Mental Health Professionals are in short supply. 4-day work week study in the U.K shows a 32 hour week is sustainable. First AP African American studies course in Texas. The City of Houston has officially opened a new senior living community in the Second Ward area in East Downtown. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let’s Talk! Do you want to keep up with what Houston is talking about? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston! Check out or Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to keep up with what we are talking about! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! Leave us a voicemail or text at +1 713-489-6972 so we can know what you’re talking about! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, The Houston LiveStock Show and Rodeo officially kicks off. What’s the concert line-up looking like? What’s new this year? Here to talk all things rodeo with lead producer Dina Kesbeh is culture contributor Antrechelle Dorsey. More on the concert list here More on the giveaway here Read up on the lack of diversity for the first time in 10 years at the rodeo here Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let’s Talk! Do you want to keep up with what Houston is talking about? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston! Check out or Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to keep up with what we are talking about! Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! Leave us a voicemail or text at +1 713-489-6972 so we can know what you’re talking about! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Soul Food is a staple in many southern households but what about if you want to add a little variety to your soul food experience? Well we got a treat for you! Food influencer G from Bless Tha Belly joins producer Carlignon Jones to give us the low-down on the best spots to get your meals made with love and — most importantly — seasoning! Links: Esther’s Cajun Cafe & Soul Food Mikki’s Soul Food Cafe & Catering Comfort Foodies Heavenly Choices Soul Goode Food Truck Follow BlessThaBelly on Instagram and TikTok for more of your food loving needs! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Let’s Talk! Looking for more Houston news? Then sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Houston  Follow us on Twitter and Instagram Have feedback or a show idea? Let us know! or leave us a voicemail/text us at +1 713-489-6972 with your thoughts, we love hearing from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, meditation expert Alejandro Chaoul offers ways to survive the holiday season — even if your relatives keep bringing up QAnon. If you would like to learn more about him, check out Alejandro's events! Meditation and Tea (In-person) Meditation and Tea (Livestreaming) Mini-retreat (Livestreaming) His new book is Tibetan Yoga: Magical Movements of Body, Breath, and Mind Also, there are weekly free meditations and a monthly meditation in Spanish called "The Power of Community" Follow City Cast Houston on Twitter, here! Follow Antre'chelle on Twitter! It's here! And sign up for our newsletter! It's here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pickleball is here to stay, but knowing where to start can be hard. So, host Raheel Ramzanali and is talking to pickleball enthusiast Johnny Lee on how every beginner in Houston can jump into their new addiction…pickleball! From the courts you should play at to the delicious eats at the many facilities, the duo will get you ready to go from beginner to pro in no time! Start your pickleball journey with the links below! How to play pickleball  PKL Social  Free into to pickleball class  Chicken n Pickle in Webster  Bumpy Pickle  Houston Parks and Recreation pickleball courts  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

This months Harris County primary elections were a wreck, a total disaster. And now, Harris County's Elections Administrator Isabel Longoria has submit her resignation, which will take effect July 1. Today City Cast contributor Evan Mintz joins us to talk about what went wrong – and how, with democracy in the balance, we can fix it. Want the latest Houston news straight to your inbox, subscribe to our newsletter here. We're on Twitter, follow us here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices