Town Square with Ernie Manouse: Recent Episodes
Houston Public Media
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues — a place for the audience to share personal opinions and have the opportunity to ask questions of leading experts on any given subject.
Through lively conversations, ranging from issues of race to the coronavirus, we strive to keep our listeners well-informed and educated. The ability to listen and share is what moves a society forward… together!
You can listen to Town Square with Ernie Manouse every weekday at 3pm on News 88.7.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Today, August 11, 2023, is the final episode of Town Square with Ernie Manouse.
For the full hour, we’re joined by a panel consisting of psychologist Dr. Jeff Temple, epidemiologist Dr. Catherine Troisi, and local author and teacher Jennifer Mathieu to reminisce and celebrate this show for all it set out to do during its time on the air.
Plus, we hear from many of our most frequent and impactful guests who have helped this show achieve its mission over its run as they share their recollections and discuss what made it special.
Special thanks to Andrew Schneider, Charles “Rocky” Rhodes, Cissy Segall Davis, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Lauren Anderson, Dr. William Haseltine, Dr. James McDeavitt, Dietrich von Biedenfeld, Dr. Melanye Price, Dr. Peter Hotez, Sen. Paul Bettencourt, Dr. Susan McLellan, Pete Makopoulos-Senftleber, Vanessa Gilmore, Dr. Chris Bronk, and Rep. Sylvia Garcia for joining and writing to us on our final episode.
Staff and crew at Town Square are all moving on to new projects at Houston Public Media and look forward to sharing with you again soon.
Guests:
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Psychologist
- Vice Dean for Research and Scholarship at the School of Nursing, UTMB Health
- The John Sealy Distinguished Chair in Community Health, UTMB Health
- Director of the Center for Violence Prevention, UTMB Health
Dr. Catherine Troisi
- Infectious Disease Epidemiologist, UTHealth Houston School of Public Health
Jennifer Mathieu
- Local Teacher
- Local Author of Seven YA Novels and an Upcoming Adult Novel (set in Houston)
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
As the school year begins, there is much to do to get students ready for a new year, which includes making sure they’re up to date on their wellness exams.
First, we’re joined by Dr. Kate King, President of the National Association of School Nurses, who shares the essential things that parents should keep in mind when sending their kids back to school, including having the right immunizations, maintaining hydration, and proper nutrition.
Then, General Ophthalmologist Dr. John Anderson joins the conversation to share insight on the importance of student eye exams, as clear vision can ensure students’ success in the classroom. Dr. Anderson also weighs in on signs to be aware of for vision problems for adults, and he takes listeners calls to answer their various eye health questions.
Guests:
Kate King, DNP, MS, RN, LSN
- President, National Association of School Nurses
- School Nurse in Columbus, Ohio
Dr. John Anderson
- General Ophthalmologist, Anderson Eye
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Dreams do come true. Harrell Holmes Jr., grew up wanting to be a Temptation, and today, he is making that a reality as he stars as Melvin Franklin in the national tour of the high energy musical Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations, which tells the story of the music group’s rise to fame.
Holmes Jr. talks with us about how his love of The Temptations began, his career from being featured on Star Search and American Idol to performing on stage in Ain’t Too Proud, as well as what audiences can expect from the show.
Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations is playing at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts in Houston until Sunday, August 13, 2023. For more information, click here.
Then, we discuss the science of sleep with neurologist and sleep specialist Dr. Chris Winter. He explains the importance of bedtime rituals to remain consistent in the time you wake up and go to bed, the amount of sleep we need as adults, better habits for falling asleep for those who are having difficulties or experiencing insomnia, and more.
Guests:
Harrell Holmes Jr.
- Singer, Dancer, Actor
- Plays Melvin Franklin in Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations
Dr. Chris Winter
- Neurologist & Sleep Specialist
- Author, The Rested Child: Why Your Tired, Wired, or Irritable Child May Have a Sleep Disorder and How To Help and The Sleep Solution: Why Your Sleep is Broken and How To Fix It
- Host, Sleep Unplugged Podcast
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we talk with author Lynn Melnick about her memoir I've Had to Think Up a Way to Survive: On Trauma, Persistence, and Dolly Parton, which details her journey of survival and recovery in the wake of loss and trauma guided by the songs of country music icon Dolly Parton.
Melnick explains what motivated her to write the book, how she found inspiration in the music of Dolly Parton to overcome the struggles in her own life, and how every chapter explores the cultural issues at the heart of Parton’s songs and how they relate to Melnick’s life.
Plus, Melnick weighs in on the issues plaguing women today, how she views healing from trauma, and how creativity and storytelling can be pivotal to our survival and growth.
I've Had to Think Up a Way to Survive: On Trauma, Persistence, and Dolly Parton is available now in paperback wherever books are sold.
Guest:
Lynn Melnick
- Author, I've Had to Think Up a Way to Survive: On Trauma, Persistence, and Dolly Parton
- Assistant Professor of Poetry, Columbia University
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we’re joined by Brad Mahlof, Leanna Pierre, and Salmah Hack, the three finalists of the 8-part PBS cooking competition The Great American Recipe, to discuss their culinary journeys in advance of the second season finale where a winner will be crowned.
The finalists also share how their personal backgrounds have influenced and inspired the dishes they’ve made for the show, details about the show and getting to know the other contestants, how food has an everlasting impact on our lives, particularly for culture and family, and more.
The final episode of The Great American Recipe Season 2 will air August 7, 2023, at 8pm CT/9pm ET on PBS.
To watch previous episodes of The Great American Recipe Season 2, click here.
Guests:
Brad Mahlof
- Finalist, The Great American Recipe
Leanna Pierre
- Finalist, The Great American Recipe
Salmah Hack
- Finalist, The Great American Recipe
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Dine out and do good: Houston Restaurant Weeks is the city's most anticipated foodie event of the year. Since it was founded in 2003, it has become the largest event of its kind in the U.S. and raised 18.8 million dollars to date.
First, we speak with Katie Stone, President of The Cleverly Stone Foundation, who explains what diners can expect for this year’s 20th anniversary of the annual fundraiser, including top Houston restaurants, award-winning chefs, and a variety of cuisines.
Then, chefs and restaurateurs David Cordúa, owner of The Lymbar, and MasterChef season three winner Christine Ha, owner of The Blind Goat, Xin Chao, Stuffed Belly, joined the conversation.
The panel weighs in on the importance of Houston Restaurant Weeks, what they will be serving up to patrons from their respective restaurants, the economics of restaurants today, the food culture of Houston, and more.
To watch The Houston Cookbook special, hosted by David Cordúa, click here.
To watch the Arts Insight package, featuring Christine Ha, click here.
Guests:
Katie Stone
- President, The Cleverley Stone Foundation
- Houston Restaurant Weeks
David Cordúa
- Owner, The Lymbar
Christine Ha
- Chef & Owner, The Blind Goat, Xin Chao, and Stuffed Belly
- Winner of MasterChef Season 3
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
On August 1, 2023, former President Donald Trump was indicted on felony charges in connection with his efforts to overturn the outcome of the 2020 Election, making this his third indictment.
For the full hour, we talk to retired U.S. District Judge Vanessa Gilmore and Dr. Frank Sorrentino, author of Presidential Power and the American Political System, about this latest indictment, what the charges mean, and what we can expect going forward.
Plus, our guests discuss how his supporters view this latest indictment, whether their support for him will change, and the impact this indictment will have on his presidential run in the upcoming 2024 Election.
Guests:
Vanessa Gilmore
- Retired U.S. District Judge
Dr. Frank Sorrentino
- Author, Presidential Power and the American Political System
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The month of July 2023 has shattered multiple temperature records with many climate scientists expecting it to be the world’s hottest month on record and possibly the warmest in 120,000 years.
For the full hour, we speak with climate scientist Dr. Noah Diffenbaugh of Stanford University, and Dr. Rachel Cleetus of the Union of Concerned Scientists, to discuss how climate change is causing these record-breaking heat waves and other extreme weather events.
Both guests also share insight on what these extreme weather events mean for the future of the planet and people’s daily lives, and how climate change will affect aspects of our society, including communities, business, agriculture, and more.
Guests:
Dr. Noah Diffenbaugh
- Professor of Earth System Science at the Doerr School of Sustainability, Stanford University
Dr. Rachel Cleetus
- Policy Director for the Climate and Energy Program, Union of Concerned Scientists
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we’re joined by physician and scientist Dr. Peter Hotez, to discuss the latest research on vaccines, the latest on COVID-19 following an uptick in cases across the U.S. and what people should know as we approach the beginning of the Fall season and the school year.
Dr. Hotez also shares why he’s dedicated his life to the advancement of science, the importance of ensuring that children get vaccinated, the rise of the anti-vaccine movement following the recent harassment he received, and much more.
Dr. Hotez's Important Adult Vaccines List:
- XBB Booster
- Annual Flu Immunization
- RSV Vaccine
- PREVNAR 20 Vaccine
- SHINGRIX Vaccine
Guest:
Dr. Peter Hotez
- Dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine
- Co-Director, Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we speak with film director and Houston native Justin Simien who discusses his new film Haunted Mansion, a new film adaptation based on the Walt Disney theme park attraction of the same name. Simien discusses his approach to helming a film based on a theme park ride.
Haunted Mansion is available now, only in theaters.
Then, we shift to “Talk of the Town” where our panel of guests weigh in on trending headlines of the week. Today’s panel consists of singer and semi-finalist on America’s Got Talent Christina Wells, Fashion and Lifestyle Blogger of MyRedGlasses Roz Pactor, and writer and activist Tony Diaz.
Our guests share their thoughts on ageism amidst health concerns over Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell suddenly freezing during a press briefing this week, how we see ourselves as a nation in today’s age of political divisiveness, cultural appropriation vs. inspiration, and more.
Guests:
Justin Simien
- Director, Haunted Mansion (2023)
Christina Wells
- Singer, Actor, and Motivational Speaker
- 2018 Semi-Finalist on “America’s Got Talent”
Roz Pactor
- Fashion and Marketing Consultant
- Fashion and Lifestyle Blogger, “My Red Glasses”
Tony Diaz
- Writer
- Director of Nuestra Palabra, Latino Writers Having Their Say
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we speak with Attorney John Raley of John Raley & Associates, about his acting role in the classic Agatha Christie trial drama Witness for the Prosecution as well as how the theatre inspired him to practice law.
Witness for the Prosecution, presented by Cone Man Running Productions, is playing Friday, July 28 – Saturday, August 12, 2023, at Studio 101 in Houston. For more information, click here.
Then, we “Ask the Lawyer” as Raley is joined by his law partner and wife, attorney Kelly Raley. The pair share their legal expertise to help us better understand the legal issues we’re witnessing in news headlines, including understanding how a plea deal works, after Hunter Biden’s deal was put on hold.
The Raleys also discuss truth in regards to the law, the legality of recording someone without their consent, whether someone can sue a company if their product causes them harm, and much more.
Plus, they take listeners' calls to answer their various legal questions.
Guests:
John Raley
- Trial Lawyer
- Attorney, John Raley & Associates
Kelly Raley
- Attorney, John Raley & Associates
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The Department of Justice has sued Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and the state of Texas following his refusal to remove a barrier of floating buoys topped with razor wire along the border in the Rio Grande river.
Representative Joaquin Castro of the 20th District of Texas joins the conversation to share his thoughts on this floating border barrier and the issues surrounding its existence.
Then, we’re joined by political science professors Dr. Jeronimo Cortina of University of Houston and Dr. Melanye Price of Prairie View A&M University, to discuss the latest news in national, state, and local politics.
Our guests weigh in on Hunter Biden’s legal troubles, the current polling for the 2023 Houston Mayoral race, the recently passed HB 900 and how it will require book vendors to assign ratings to books based on the presence of depictions or references to sex, and what’s next for the future of Harris County elections.
Guests:
Representative Joaquin Castro
- Congressman for the 20th District of Texas
Dr. Jeronimo Cortina
- Associate Professor of Political Science, University of Houston
- Co-Host, Houston Public Media’s Party Politics
Dr. Melanye Price
- Endowed Professor of Political Science, Prairie View A&M University
- Director, Ruth J. Simmons Center for Race and Justice
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we’re joined by Veterinarian Dr. Diarra Blue, co-owner of Cy-Fair Animal Hospital and star of Animal Planet’s The Vet Life, to share insight on general pet health for the Summer season.
Dr. Blue discusses the importance of making sure your pet is hydrated by giving them fresh clean water, how to keep them safe from insects like fleas, ticks, and mosquitos, and common things they should not ingest, including certain foods, drinks, and chemical products.
Plus, Dr. Blue explains the most common issues for pets, how to know when it’s the right time to take your animal to the vet and takes listeners’ calls to answer their pet questions.
Guest:
Dr. Diarra Blue, DVM
- Veterinarian
- Co-Owner, Cy-Fair Animal Hospital
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, Nicole Temple, Vice President of Education at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, joins us to share details about the museum’s new exhibit Sharks! The Meg, The Monsters, & The Myths, and how it seeks to explore the history of sharks and debunk myths people have about them.
Plus, Temple explains what museumgoers can find at the exhibit’s six galleries, including, physical interactives, touchable items, photo ops, live animals, a 50-foot Megalodon model, and much more. For more information on the exhibit, click here.
Then, we’re joined by Jeff Kurr, Emmy nominated producer, cinematographer, and director for Discovery Channel’s Shark Week, and Marine Ecologist and Shark Researcher Dr. Neil Hammerschlag to discuss sharks, our fascination with them, and their relationship to humans.
Kurr discusses his more than thirty years with Shark Week, what’s it’s like being in the water filming sharks, and what technology has allowed him to see and the places it’s allowed him to go in order to capture footage of sharks.
Dr. Hammerschlag explains whether we’re seeing more sharks swimming closer to shore due to climate change, information about Shark behavior, and surprising facts.
Guests:
Nicole Temple
- Vice President of Education, Houston Museum of Natural Science
Jeff Kurr
- Emmy Nominated Producer, Cinematographer, and Director of Discovery Channel’s Shark Week
Dr. Neil Hammerschlag
- Marine Ecologist & Shark Researcher
- Founder, Atlantic Shark Expeditions
- Investigator, Marine Biodiversity Observation Network
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, Brenda Valdivia talks with Doc Hammer and Jackson Publick, the co-creators of the long-running Adult Swim animated comedy series The Venture Bros. The pair reflect on their hit series and discuss their new film The Venture Bros.: Radiant Is the Blood of the Baboon Heart which is the conclusion of the series. Please note, this interview was conducted before the SAG-AFTRA strike.
The Venture Bros.: Radiant Is the Blood of the Baboon Heart is available now on digital and will be available on Blu-ray on July 25, 2023.
Then, we shift to “Talk of the Town” for a special Summer entertainment edition of our weekly series. Today’s panel consists of film journalist & critic Regina Scruggs, President of Houston Film Critics Society Travis Leamons, and President & CEO of Nexus Entertainment Greg Carter.
The panel shares their thoughts on 2023 Summer movie releases, how a movie is considered a box-office flop in today’s film industry, what effects has streaming had on the moviegoing experience, the phenomenon of “Barbenheimer” referring to the highly anticipated simultaneous release of the films Barbie and Oppenheimer, and more.
Guests:
Doc Hammer
- Co-Creator, The Venture Bros.
- Voice Actor for Hank Venture, The Monarch, Dr. Henry Killinger, and many more
Jackson Publick
- Co-Creator, The Venture Bros.
- Voice Actor for Henchman 21, Billy Quizboy, Dr. Mrs. The Monarch, and many more
Regina Scruggs
- Film Journalist, Lecturer & Critic
- Founding Member, Houston Film Critics Society
Travis Leamons
- President, Houston Film Critics Society
- Film Critic, FreshFiction.TV
Greg Carter
- President & CEO, Nexus Entertainment
- Filmmaker
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
On July 14, 2023, the labor union SAG-AFTRA began a strike against the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), joining the Writers Guild of America (WGA). This marks the second time since the 1960s that two Hollywood labor unions are striking simultaneously.
First, we speak with Dominic Patten, Senior Editor for Deadline Hollywood, who discusses the latest on the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, the issues brought up by the unions, and the responses we’ve seen from the studios and producers.
Then, we’re joined by Art Wheaton, Director of Labor Studies at Cornell University’s ILR School, and Dr. Miranda Banks, Associate Professor from Loyola Marymount University, to share their thoughts on the Hollywood labor strikes, and other labor disputes in what’s being called the “Hot Labor Summer”.
Plus, Orange is the New Black star Lea DeLaria, joins the conversation to discuss her participation in the SAG-AFTRA strike and thoughts on the issue of residual payments for actors.
Guests:
Dominic Patten
- Senior Editor, Deadline Hollywood
Art Wheaton
- Director of Labor Studies, School of Industrial and Labor Relations (ILR), Cornell University
Dr. Miranda Banks
- Associate Professor and Chair of Film, Television and Media Studies, Loyola Marymount University
- Author, The Writers: A History of American Screenwriters and Their Guild
Lea DeLaria
- Actor, Comedian, and Jazz Singer
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Sooner or later, every parent must eventually have “The Talk” with their children about where babies come from, but the question of when to have the talk, how to have it, and what has changed about this conversation plagues many parents.
For the full hour, certified sex and relationship therapist Dr. Emily Jamea joins us, along with the founder and director of the online course Birds & Bees, Mary Flo Ridley and Megan Michelson, to share how parents can best approach this conversation with kids.
Our guests also discuss the importance of teaching children about sex, setting and respecting boundaries between children and family members, and how technology has changed the conversation with new complexities in our world like online pornography, sexting, and sextortion.
*Disclaimer: This show covers adult subject matter that may not be appropriate for all ages. The conversation is frank in nature and it contains sexual themes.
Guests:
Dr. Emily Jamea
- Certified Sex and Relationship Therapist
- Author of the forthcoming book, “Anatomy of Desire: Five Secrets to Lasting Intimacy”
Mary Flo Ridley
- Founder, Birds & Bees
Megan Michelson
- Director, Birds & Bees
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we speak with University of Houston Hobby School of Public Affairs Associate Professor Dr. Chris Bronk about the technology war between the U.S. and China, with the Biden administration attempting to restrict China’s access to semiconductors.
Then, we are joined by Rice University Political Science professor Dr. Richard Stoll and Ronan O’Malley, Chief Programs Officer for the World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, to discuss recent and current international affairs.
Both guests share insight on Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen’s recent trip to China, the latest on Russia-Ukraine amidst the destruction of a bridge linking Crimea to Russia, and Sweden becoming an official member of NATO.
Plus, Dr. Stoll and O’Malley share their thoughts on recent world news headlines such as the continuing protests occurring in France, whether the European economy is in trouble, and understanding the Philippines and the new leadership of Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Guests:
Dr. Chris Bronk
- Associate Professor, Hobby School of Public Affairs, University of Houston
Dr. Richard Stoll
- Albert Thomas Professor of Political Science, Rice University
Ronan O’Malley
- Chief Programs Officer and Director of the Global Affairs & U.S. Foreign Policy Institute, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
It’s time for another “Talk of the Town!” For the full hour, our panel of guests share their perspectives on trending headlines and topics recently covered on Town Square with Ernie Manouse.
Today’s panel consists of Second Baptist Church pastor Dr. Ben Young, First Assistant County Attorney for Harris County Jay Aiyer, and The Ensemble Theatre’s Artistic Director Eileen Morris.
Our guests share their thoughts on topics including how to deal with grief when losing a loved one, the SAG-AFTRA strike and what effects it will have on the film industry, the uses of ChatGPT, and the excitement around the deals of Amazon Prime Day earlier this week.
Plus, the panel weighs in on recently covered show discussions, including the “American Dream”, the books they’re reading, show’s they’re streaming, and the Emmy nominations.
Guests:
Dr. Ben Young
- Pastor, Second Baptist Church
- Author, “Survive the Day: Thriving in the Midst of Life’s Storms”
Jay Aiyer
- First Assistant County Attorney, Harris County
- Former Co-host, Party Politics
Eileen Morris
- Artistic Director, The Ensemble Theatre
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we talk with Lieutenant Austin Kirwin of the Galveston Island Beach Patrol about general beach safety, including, how to stay safe in the heat and in the water by knowing how to identify a lifeguard, the flag colors and their meanings, and what to do if you’re caught in a rip current.
Then, we are joined by Nathan Diller, USA Today Consumer Travel Reporter, and Kate Johnson, Owner and Advisor of KJ Travel, to discuss advice for summer travel and what you need to know before you book a trip.
Diller shares insight on how listeners can avoid scams when booking online, why passport wait times have been so long recently, and tips on how to find deals on cruises.
Johnson offers advice on planning trips for long vacations, weekend getaways, and staycations, what to keep in mind when packing for a trip, as well as whether an Airbnb is the right option for your vacation.
Guests:
Austin Kirwin
- Lieutenant, Galveston Island Beach Patrol
Nathan Diller
- Consumer Travel Reporter, USA TODAY
Kate Johnson
- Owner and Advisor, KJ Travel
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The “American Dream” is the national ethos of the United States, and is usually equated with success, money, and prosperous living. However, these days it seems this dream is becoming more and more unattainable as 60% of Americans are now living paycheck to paycheck according to recent reports.
For the full hour, we talk with The New York Times Senior Writer David Leonhardt, and Alissa Quart, author of the book Bootstrapped: Liberating Ourselves from the American Dream to discuss their thoughts on the quality of living for Americans today and how it relates to the current state of the “American Dream”.
Both guests discuss the concept of the “American Dream” and what it means today compared to previous generations, the myriad of economic hardships faced by many Americans, particularly for millennials and Gen Z, their thoughts on whether the idealized “American Dream” can still be achievable in the future, and more.
Guests:
David Leonhardt
- Senior Writer, The New York Times
- Writer of the NYT flagship daily newsletter The Morning
- Author of the forthcoming book, Ours Was the Shining Future
Alissa Quart
- Author of Bootstrapped: Liberating Ourselves from the American Dream
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we’re joined by New York Times bestselling author Katherine Center, who discusses the release of her new book Hello Stranger, an enduring and endearing romantic comedy set in Houston.
Center also shares details of her career and her journey to get her first book published, how we judge romance novels by the wrong standards, and the upcoming release of the film adaptation of her book Happiness for Beginners, scheduled to be released July 27, 2023, on Netflix.
Katherine Center is going on tour for her new book, Hello Stranger. Blue Willow Book Shop is hosting a book signing event tonight, July 11, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. at St. Thomas Presbyterian Church. For more information, click here. Center will also appear at Brazos Bookstore on July 12, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. For more information click here.
Guest:
Katherine Center
- New York Times Bestselling Author, Hello Stranger
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The state of Texas is among the worst states when it comes to maternal mortality, with an overwhelming majority of these deaths being preventable. Elena Rivera, KERA Health Reporter shares insight on why Texas fares so poorly, current legislation that’s being pushed to address the issue, and how people are having issues accessing care for complex pregnancy issues with the removal of Roe v. Wade.
Then, we’re joined by Dr. LaToia Marks, OBGYN at St. Luke’s Health, and Latoya Hill, Senior Policy Analyst in Racial Equity & Health Policy at KFF, to discuss why maternal mortality rates remain the highest among Black women, the drivers behind these pregnancy-related deaths, and ways to improve health outcomes for women plagued by these health disparities.
Guests:
Elena Rivera
- Health Reporter, KERA
Dr. LaToia Marks
- OBGYN, St. Luke’s Health
Latoya Hill
- Senior Policy Analyst in Racial Equity & Health Policy, KFF
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
It’s time for another “Talk of the Town!” For the full hour, our panel of guests share their perspectives on trending headlines of the week as well as topics recently covered on Town Square with Ernie Manouse.
Today’s panel consists of bestselling author and Managing Editor of The Houston Defender ReShonda Tate, life coach and co-founder of The League Terry The Trainer, and actress Deborah Hope.
The panel shares their thoughts on trending topics, including, the current state of the U.S. economy, political news such as the cocaine that was found in the White House this week, as well as the debate over free speech online and being held accountable for what we say on social media.
Plus, the group discusses Meta’s new app, Threads, and whether it can take on Twitter in terms of popularity, representation for interpreting classic works like Gone with the Wind, as well as shows they’re streaming.
Guests:
ReShonda Tate
- Managing Editor, The Houston Defender
- National Bestselling Author
Terry “The Trainer” Williams
- Life Coach
- Co-Founder, The League
Deborah Hope
- Actress
- Co-host of YouTube’s “Car Takes with Deborah & Joel”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we’re joined by Rania Mankarious, CEO of Crime Stoppers of Houston, who discusses cyber safety for kids as well as advice on the online dangers and cybercrime trends for parents.
Then, we’re joined by The New York Times Technology Journalist Kashmir Hill and UH Hobby School of Public Affairs Professor Dr. Chris Bronk, to discuss the latest headlines in the world of technology.
Both guests share their perspectives on social media-related news such as the current landscape of Twitter, whether the launch of Meta’s new app, Threads, poses a threat to Twitter, and the recent ruling that blocked the Biden Administration from having direct communication with social media companies.
Guests:
Rania Mankarious
- CEO, Crime Stoppers of Houston
Kashmir Hill
- Technology Journalist at The New York Times
- Author, Your Face Belongs To Us: A Secretive Startup’s Quest to End Privacy As We Know It
Dr. Chris Bronk
- Associate Professor at the Hobby School of Public Affairs, University of Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we discuss the latest in political news with political science professors Dr. Elizabeth Simas from the University of Houston and Dr. Michael O. Adams from Texas Southern University.
Both guests weigh in on headlines related to the 2024 Presidential race, such as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ criticism of former President Trump over his stance on LGBTQIA+ issues, whether any third-party candidates will have an impact in the election, and what we can expect for the first Republican Presidential debate next month.
Plus, Dr. Simas and Dr. Adams share their perspectives on the Houston mayoral race, whether U.S. Rep. Colin Allred poses a challenge to Senator Ted Cruz following his raising of 6.2 million dollars in the Texas Senate race, how campaigning has changed for candidates with the existence of social media and technology, and more.
Guests:
Dr. Elizabeth Simas
- Associate Professor of Political Science, University of Houston
Dr. Michael O. Adams
- Professor of Political Science and Public Administration, Texas Southern University
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Actress and vocalist Liz Mikel joins us to discuss her role as Benjamin Franklin in the national tour of the Broadway revival of 1776: The Musical. This celebrated musical depicts the events that lead to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Mikel discusses how this revival reimagines the classic musical by featuring a cast made up of female, trans, and non-binary actors playing America’s founders, as well as the reactions she’s seeing from audience members so far.
1776: The Musical is presented by Theatre Under the Stars and will be in Houston from July 20 – 22, 2023, at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. For more information, click here.
Then, we speak with author Kenneth C. Davis, best known for the New York Times bestsellers Don’t Know Much About® History and America’s Hidden History, as well as several other works. Davis shares insight on who the U.S. founding fathers were apart from the mythology around their legacies.
Davis also explains why we celebrate Independence Day on July 4, how the founding fathers felt about slavery despite many owning slaves themselves, and certain figures in U.S. history who deserve more credit for their contributions to the country, including founding “mothers”.
Guests:
Liz Mikel
- “Benjamin Franklin” in 1776: The Musical
Kenneth C. Davis
- Author of New York Times bestsellers Don’t Know Much About® History and America’s Hidden History, and many other works, including In the Shadow of Liberty: The Hidden History of Slavery, Four Presidents, and Five Black Lives
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In the last two days, the U.S. Supreme Court handed down several landmark rulings that could have major implications on the lives of Americans. Today, this included rulings related to the First Amendment and gay rights as well as student loans.
First, Charles “Rocky” Rhodes joined us to share insight on the recent rulings, particularly with the Supreme Court’s decision to rule in favor of a web designer who refused services to same-sex couples on religious grounds.
Then, we brought in our “Talk of the Town” panelists for a broader perspective on these recent decisions. The panel, including Dietrich von Biedenfeld, J.D., Assistant Professor in Business Law, writer and activist Tony Diaz, and actor Joel Sandel, discusses their thoughts on what repercussions we may see in the future.
Guests:
Charles “Rocky” Rhodes
- Professor of Law, South Texas College of Law Houston
Dietrich von Biedenfeld, J.D.
- Assistant Professor in Business Law, Marilyn Davies College of Business, University of Houston Downtown
- Former Associate Municipal Judge
- Member of the Supreme Court Bar
Tony Diaz
- Writer
- El Librotraficante
- Director of Nuestra Palabra, Latino Writers Having Their Say
Joel Sandel
- Professional Actor and Houston’s Liaison for Actor’s Equity Association
- Co-host, “Car Takes with Deborah and Joel” on YouTube
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In a historic move, the Supreme Court ruled to strike down the use of affirmative action in college admissions, a long-standing precedent that has benefited Black and Latino students in higher education.
For the full hour, Charles “Rocky” Rhodes, Professor of Law at South Texas College of Law Houston and Craig Jackson, Professor of Law at Texas Southern University join us to share their perspectives on this court ruling.
They weigh in on how the decision will change the landscape of higher education, what effect this ruling will have in schools across the nation, and the reactions we’re seeing so far.
In reference to a comment made during the show, the caller Jeff wrote in to clarify that he "was being 100% facetious," with his comment.
Guests:
Charles “Rocky” Rhodes
- Professor of Law, South Texas College of Law Houston
Craig Jackson
- Professor of Law, Thurgood Marshall School of Law, Texas Southern University
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The LGBTQIA+ community faces many mental health concerns or conditions, as well as health disparities. According to the American Psychology Association, LGBTQIA+ individuals are more than twice as likely as heterosexual men and women to have a mental health disorder in their lifetime.
For the full hour, we speak with psychologist Dr. Jeff Temple and therapist and social worker Margaret Mayer, LMSW, of Eddins Counseling Group about the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community.
We discuss the common mental disorders prevalent in LGBTQIA+ individuals, the importance of acceptance and the effects it can have on mental health, and why it’s important to seek treatment and better advocate for one’s health.
Resources:
If you are in crisis, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
The Trevor Project: you can chat with them online at TheTrevorProject.org. You can also call them at 866-488-7386 or text “START” to 678-678.
An organization in Houston that provides services to the LGBTQIA+ community is The Montrose Center, visit their website at MontroseCenter.org or call their 24-hour helpline at 713-529-3211.
For the Harris Center for Mental Health & IDD 24/7 crisis line, call 713-970-7000.
For Trans Lifeline’s 24-hour hotline call 877-565-8860.
Guests:
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Psychologist
- Vice Dean for Research and Scholarship at the School of Nursing, UTMB Health
- John Sealy Distinguished Chair in Community Health, UTMB Health
- Director of the Center for Violence Prevention, UTMB Health
Margaret Mayer, LMSW
- Therapist/Social Worker, Eddins Counseling Group
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
According to the Anxiety Depression Association of America (ADAA), around 12 million adults in the U.S. have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) during a given year. The month of June is recognized as National PTSD Awareness Month to increase awareness of the disorder.
Veterans are more likely to develop PTSD given their continuous exposure to traumatic and extreme experiences. We’re joined by Dr. Erin Fletcher, Director of the Warrior Care Network for Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), to discuss the latest research and effects of PTSD on veterans.
Then, we’re joined by Dr. Andrea Taylor, Licensed Clinical Psychologist at UTHealth Science Center’s Trauma & Resilience Center, who shares insight on what trauma looks like and how it can develop into Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Plus, Mental Health Advocate Brad Gage joins the conversation to discuss men’s mental health, the stigmas around asking for help, as well as his work as an Ambassador for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
If you are in crisis call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you are a veteran in crisis dial 988 and then press 1 to be connected to the Veterans Crisis Line.
To reach the NAMI HelpLine, call 800-950-6264 or text "Helpline" to 62640.
Guests:
Dr. Erin Fletcher
- Director of Warrior Care Network for Wounded Warrior Project
Dr. Andrea Taylor
- Licensed Clinical Psychologist, UTHealth Science Center’s Trauma & Resilience Center
Brad Gage
- Mental Health Advocate
- Ambassador, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
More than 1.2 million people in the U.S. live with HIV and fourteen percent are unaware of their infection. Allies in Hope, formerly known as AIDS Foundation Houston, is on a mission to end the HIV epidemic in the greater Houston area.
We talk with Jeffrey Campbell, CEO of Allies in Hope, about the services they provide, the reason behind their recent name change, and their partnership with Walgreens to provide free HIV test screenings for National HIV Testing Day.
Free HIV test screenings will be available Tuesday, June 27, 2023, from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. CT, at the following Houston locations: 7929 Kirby Drive (at Old Spanish Trail) and 2612 Smith Street (between McGowan & Dennis Streets).
Then, following the loss of five passengers on the Titan submersible that was part of an expedition to view the wreckage of the RMS Titanic that occurred last week, we discuss the legacy of the famous ship and its devastating shipwreck that has captured the public’s fascination.
We’re joined by Michael Findlay, co-founder and former president of the Titanic International Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of the Titanic. He discusses the story behind the Titanic as well as why people continue to be intrigued by it 111 years after its sinking.
Plus, Ronan O’Malley, Chief Programs Officer for World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, shares insight on the recent short-lived rebellion from Russian private military company Wagner Group, as well as whether it will have an impact on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Guests:
Jeffrey Campbell
- CEO, Allies In Hope
Ronan O’Malley
- Chief Programs Officer, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston
Michael Findlay
- Co-founder, Trustee and Former President, Titanic International Society
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we talk with John Dankosky, the Director of News and Audio of Science Friday, who joins us to discuss the exciting stories featured on Science Friday, including the show’s Cephalopod Week, which shows appreciation for underwater animals like squid and octopus.
Also, Dankosky discusses a special event dedicated to cephalopods and understanding what marine invertebrate research has in common with space exploration. This event will take place on Saturday, June 24, 2023, at 6:30pm, at Space Center Houston. For more information, visit ScienceFriday.com
Then, we shift to “Talk of the Town” for a very special Pride Month edition of our weekly series. Today’s panel consists of Shawn Kuehn, Vice President of University of Houston LGBTQ Alumni Association, Violinist & Drag Artist Queen Angelina, and Catastrophic Theatre Producing Artistic Director, Tamarie Cooper.
This panel weighs in on recently covered Town Square with Ernie Manouse topics, such as gender identity, as well as recently trending topics such as the Titan submersible that was lost at the site of the Titanic wreckage. They also share their thoughts on Pride Month and how they’re celebrating this weekend’s celebration in Houston.
Guests:
John Dankosky
- Director of News and Audio, Science Friday
Shawn Kuehn
- Vice President, University of Houston LGBTQ Alumni Association
- Board Member, UH Foundation
Queen Angelina
- Violinist & Drag Artist
Tamarie Cooper
- Producing Artistic Director, Catastrophic Theatre
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we are joined by Allison Hay, the Executive Director for Houston Habitat for Humanity, who discusses the work the non-profit organization does to help empower people to fully realize home ownership. She also shared exciting news about their new project, Robins Landing, which is Habitat’s first master-planned community.
If you would like to learn more about Houston Habitat for Humanity, visit HoustonHabitat.org.
Then, June is National Homeownership Month. We are joined by Realtor Jennifer Wauhob and Senior Loan Officer at Gold Star Mortgage Charles Christmas, who discuss the housing market right now, what we can expect in the near future, whether or not now is a good time to purchase a home, and what to know about obtaining a loan.
Guests:
Allison Hay
- Executive Director, Houston Habitat for Humanity
Jennifer Wauhob
- Realtor
- Immediate Past Chair, Houston Association of Realtors
Charles Christmas
- Senior Loan Officer, Gold Star Mortgage
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
While many of us know male and female, they are not the only terms used to describe a person’s gender. With identities such as cisgender, nonbinary, and agender to name a few, there are now more than seventy ways to describe a person’s gender.
For the full hour, we are joined by Dr. Fay Guarraci, Professor of Psychology at Southwestern University, to discuss gender and the science behind gender and different gender identities.
Dr. Guarraci also explains how a person’s sex is biological, while gender is more socially constructed, how situations arise when the brain, internal organs, and external organs aren't on the same page, which can lead to individuals being intersex, as well as the differences between the different gender identities.
Guest:
Dr. Fay Guarraci
- Professor of Psychology, Southwestern University Georgetown Texas
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
According to the CDC, up to ten percent of the U.S. population has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The disorder causes difficulty paying attention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior. While the disorder is most often found in children, it can appear in adults too, making their daily lives more challenging.
For the full hour, we are joined by KC Davis, a licensed professional counselor and author of the book How to Keep House While Drowning: A Gentle Approach to Cleaning and Organizing. Davis shares her insight on ADHD and how it can cause many to feel overwhelmed and avoid self-care.
We’re also joined by Dr. Asim Shah, Executive Vice Chair of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Baylor College of Medicine, who explains how ADHD is tested, what the signs are for ADHD in adults, and the differences between medications used to treat the disorder.
Guests:
KC Davis
- Licensed Professional Counselor
- Author, How to Keep House While Drowning: A Gentle Approach to Cleaning and Organizing
- Host of the podcast Struggle Care
Dr. Asim Shah
- Professor and Executive Vice Chair of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we are joined by actresses Olivia Valli and Celia Hottenstein, who discuss their gravity defying roles as Elphaba and Glinda in the current national Broadway tour of Wicked: The Untold True Story of the Witches of Oz, the acclaimed musical based on the novel of the same name.
Valli and Hottenstein discuss stepping into their iconic roles, what fans of the musical can expect in this current national tour, and how audiences in Houston have been responding to the show so far.
Wicked is currently playing at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts in Houston through July 2, 2023. For more information, click here.
Then, we shift to Talk of the Town, for a special Father’s Day edition of our new series. Today’s show features a panel made up of fathers, including, Houston Public Media’s I See U host Eddie Robinson, psychologist Dr. Jeff Temple, and former Straight No Chaser member and voice over actor Charlie Mechling.
The panel discusses topics recently covered on Town Square with Ernie Manouse, such as the Sugar Land 95 and how America’s past is being taught to students, celebration of Pride month, and favorite songs of summer. Plus, the panel also weighs in on Father’s Day and shares their thoughts on how the roles of fatherhood has changed.
Guests:
Olivia Valli
- Plays Elphaba in Wicked
Celia Hottenstein
- Plays Glinda in Wicked
Eddie Robinson
- Executive Producer & Host, I See U
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Psychologist
- Vice Dean for Research and Scholarship at the School for Nursing, UTMB Health
- John Sealy Distinguished Chair in Community Health, UTMB Health
- Director, Center for Violence Prevention, UTMB Health
Charlie Mechling
- Former Member, Straight No Chaser
- Musician, Voice Over Actor, Emcee
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we talk with Daresha Kyi, the Director & Producer of the documentary Mama Bears, who discusses the film and its exploration of a group of moms, or “Mama Bears”, who are fighting for the rights of their LGBTQIA+ children. The documentary follows two mothers from conservative Christian backgrounds who reconcile their faith with their children’s identity, learn to love them unconditionally, and advocate for their rights and wellbeing. It also follows a young lesbian who struggles with her own self-acceptance and illustrates why the support of the Mama Bears is so important.
Then, we’re joined by Liz Dyer, the founder of Mama Bears who shares her personal story, from initially having trouble understanding when her son came out, to fully supporting her son, and eventually creating a private Facebook group for mothers of LGBTQIA+ kids to share resources and offer support.
We’re also joined by Clinical Psychologist Dr. Tyson Reuter who discusses the importance of family acceptance on a child’s mental health, what to tell families who are having a difficult time understanding when their child comes out, and how coming out is not a one-time thing.
Mama Bears the documentary is set to air on PBS’s Independent Lens on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at 9:00 p.m. CT. It will also be available to stream on the PBS app.
Guests:
Daresha Kyi
- Director & Producer, Mama Bears
Liz Dyer
- Founder of “Mama Bears”
Dr. Tyson Reuter
- Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, Sarah Rothenberg, Artistic Director of DACAMERA, joins us with a preview of the upcoming 2023-2024 season of the arts organization, which includes a new suite from jazz trumpeter and composer Terence Blanchard from his history-making opera “Fire Shut Up in My Bones”, two world premieres from Etienne Charles and composer Matthew Aucoin and director Peter Sellars, and a celebration of composer Fanny Mendelssohn in concert and film. To learn more about DACAMERA’S 2023-2024 Season, click here.
Plus, June 16 – 23, DACAMERA is offering a free virtual streaming event of its recent production of Kendrick Scott’s “Unearthed”, which is a memorialization of the Sugar Land 95 through original music, poetry, and visual art. For more information, click here.
The Sugar Land 95 refers to 95 African-American individuals whose remains were uncovered during construction of a new school in Fort Bend Independent School District in 2018.
Our conversation on The Sugar Land 95 continues with the co-hosts of a new Texas Newsroom podcast Sugar Land, Journalist Brittney Martin and Southwestern University Assistant Professor of Anthropology Dr. Naomi Reed. Their podcast explores details about who The Sugar Land 95 were, the systemic issues around them, and what progress has been made in the five years since they were discovered.
The first two episodes of the Sugar Land podcast will be released Friday, June 16, 2023, on HoustonPublicMedia.org and all major podcast platforms. The remainder of the 8 episodes will be released weekly, every Thursday.
Guests:
Sarah Rothenberg
- Artistic Director, DACAMERA
Brittney Martin
- Independent Journalist
- Co-Host & Executive Producer, Sugar Land podcast
Dr. Naomi Reed
- Assistant Professor of Anthropology, Southwestern University
- Co-Host & Senior Producer, Sugar Land podcast
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Today, June 13, 2023, former President Donald Trump was arraigned in a federal court on charges related to the classified documents found at his Florida Mar-A-Lago estate. This is the first time in U.S. history where a former President has been indicted in a state or federal court.
For the full hour, we’re joined by retired U.S. District Judge Vanessa Gilmore and Presidential Historian and author Dr. Lindsay M. Chervinsky to share their perspectives on the legal issues faced by former President Trump.
Former Judge Gilmore shares insight on what occurred during Trump’s arraignment, the legal process of this indictment, and what we can expect for the former President as this legal process unfolds.
Dr. Chervinsky explains how this case is historically unprecedented for a former or current president, how this indictment compares to past political scandals such as Watergate, and how these federal charges will affect Trump's run for president.
Guests:
Vanessa Gilmore
- Retired U.S. District Judge
Dr. Lindsay M. Chervinsky
- Presidential Historian
- Author, The Cabinet: George Washington and the Creation of an American Institution
- Senior Fellow at the Center for Presidential History, Southern Methodist University
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we are joined by seven-time Grammy Award-winning husband and wife duo Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr., who join us to discuss their music careers, the secret to their lasting 53-year marriage, and their upcoming Juneteenth celebration performance.
Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr.’s Juneteenth celebration performance will be June 17, 2023, at The Grand 1894 Opera House in Galveston at 8:00 p.m. For more information, click here.
Then, we’re joined by “America’s foremost chart journalist” Fred Bronson, who joins us to discuss the biggest summer hits of all time, what makes a summer hit endure, and the 40th anniversary of Bonnie Tyler’s Total Eclipse of the Heart.
Also, Bronson shares highlights from his career as a Billboard journalist, such as covering the Eurovision Song Contest many times, his work with the multi-venue benefit concert Live Aid, as well as many other writing credits.
Guests:
Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis, Jr.
- 7-Time Grammy Award-winning Duo
- “The Power First Couple of Pop & Soul”
- Co-Founders & Lead Singers Of The 5th Dimension
Fred Bronson
- Billboard Journalist
- “America’s Foremost Chart Journalist”
- Author of Books Related to the #1 Songs on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we are joined by Dr. Brandon Rottinghaus to discuss the latest on former President Donald Trump’s indictment on federal charges related to his mishandling of classified documents.
Then, we shift to our new series “Talk of the Town”, where our panel of guests share their thoughts on trending topics in the news and recently-covered topics on Town Square.
Today’s panel consists of University of Houston-Downtown Assistant Professor in Business Law, Dietrich von Biedenfeld, J.D., Professor of Infectious Diseases at UTMB Health Dr. Susan McLellan, and Carver High School Theatre Director Roshunda Jones-Koumba.
The panel discusses several topics ranging from political news, including former President Trump’s legal troubles and the 2024 Presidential Race, to medical topics such as artificial sweeteners and Ozempic, and Houston ISD’s new leadership.
Plus, the panel also discusses media and entertainment topics such as the upcoming Tony Awards, the 2023 Writers’ Strike, and summer movie releases.
Guests:
Dr. Brandon Rottinghaus
- Professor of Political Science, University of Houston
- Co-Host of “Party Politics”
Dietrich von Biedenfeld, J.D.
- Assistant Professor in Business Law, Marilyn Davies College of Business at University of Houston Downtown
Dr. Susan McLellan
- Professor of Infectious Diseases, UTMB Health
- Director, Special Pathogens Excellence in Clinical Treatment, Readiness, and Education (SPECTRE)
Roshunda Jones-Koumba
- Carver High School Theatre Director, Aldine ISD
- Tony Award Winner for Excellence in Theatre Education
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Throughout history, Americans have been upset over moral issues. In the 1980’s, we saw the rise of the Moral Majority, while the 90’s brought outrage over violence in the Mortal Kombat video game and boycotts against the raunchiness seen in the TV show Married… with Children. In recent years, we have seen protests over election reform, racial justice, gun violence and abortion. Just recently, Target has been in the cross hairs over its Pride displays, Bud Light called out for using a transgender influencer in a marketing campaign, and Chick-Fil-A was said to go “woke” for adding a diversity, equity, and inclusion officer. Where does moral outrage come from, what does it accomplish, and where do we go from here?
We first talk with Emily Stewart, Senior Correspondent at Vox, about the current landscape of moral outrage in our culture. From protests over companies supporting the LGBTQ+ community, the outrage over the PGA’s merger with LIV Golf, and the censorship that comes with book bans, are voices growing louder?
Then, University of Miami Political Science Professor Dr. Joseph Uscinski, Ball State University History Professor Dr. Emily Suzanne Johnson, and Houston Christian University Senior Research Fellow Dr. Adam Lloyd Johnson, join the conversation on what fuels moral outrage in our society, the history of moral panics in America, and have these high standards of virtue become more integrated into our political system.
Guests:
Emily Stewart
- Senior Correspondent, Vox
Dr. Joseph Uscinski
- Professor of Political Science, University of Miami
- Author, The People’s News: Media, Politics, and the Demands of Capitalism and American Conspiracy Theories
Dr. Emily Suzanne Johnson
- Associate Professor of History, Women’s and Gender Studies, and African-American Studies, Ball State University
- She writes about religion, sexuality, and moral panics in U.S. History
Dr. Adam Lloyd Johnson
- Senior Research Fellow, Houston Christian University
- President, Convincing Proof
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we are joined by James Beard and Emmy Award-winning public television host and internationally renowned chef, Lidia Bastianich who discusses her new PBS special Lidia Celebrates America: Flavors That Define Us.
The special features Bastianich as she travels across the country meeting with recent immigrants, refugees, and first-generation Americans to reflect on their journeys and what being an American means to them.
Also, Bastianich shares details from her life including her Italian heritage and coming to America at an early age, as well as her career as a restauranteur and chef on public television.
Plus, one of the two Houstonians featured in the special, Khalil Arab, calls in to share his personal story as a former interpreter for the U.S. Military in Afghanistan and his journey to the U.S.
Lidia Celebrates America: Flavors That Define Us is now streaming on PBS.org and the PBS App.
Guests:
Lidia Bastianich
- Emmy Award-winning Public Television Host
- Internationally Renowned Chef
- Bestselling Author
- Restauranteur, Becco in New York City & Lidia’s in Kansas City
Khalil Arab
- Former Interpreter for the U.S. Military in Afghanistan
- SIV’s and Allies Program Manager, Combined Arms
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The future of DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) is in the hands of U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen, as thousands of dreamers enrolled in the program anxiously anticipate what the decision could mean for them.
First, we speak with Charles Foster, Chairman of Foster Global, an immigration law firm, who explains the history of DACA and what the legal options are for the thousands of dreamers who would be impacted if Judge Hanen terminates the program.
Then, we’re joined by Cesar Espinosa who explains the programs FIEL Houston provides as well as its mission to empower the immigrant community in Houston, the state of Texas, and the U.S.
We also talk to University of Houston Associate Professor of Law, Daniel Morales, who discusses the latest in immigration-related news in the U.S., including the investigation over two private planes that delivered migrants to California and the history behind immigration and its economic impact.
Guests:
Charles Foster
- Chairman, Foster Global, U.S. & Global Immigration Services
Daniel Morales
- Associate Professor of Law, University of Houston Law Center
Cesar Espinosa
- Executive Director, FIEL Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
On June 1, 2023, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) named F. Mike Miles as the new superintendent for the Houston Independent School District.
For the full hour, Superintendent Miles joins us to discuss his role as the newly-appointed leader of HISD, as well as his plans for improving the school district amidst the concerns following the TEA’s takeover of the district.
Miles explains his approach to enact systemic change within HISD, including his “New Education System” initiative which requires staff to reapply for their jobs, as well as puts focus on the highest-need schools first to evaluate and recruit exceptional principals and teachers, among other changes.
Plus, Superintendent Miles takes listeners’ calls to answer their questions and comments about his goals for HISD going forward.
Guest:
Mike Miles
- Superintendent, Houston Independent School District
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
It’s “Talk of the Town!”, a round table discussion where a panel of guests share their fresh opinions on recently discussed Town Square with Ernie Manouse topics as well as currently trending topics.
Today, the panel features Political Science Professor Dr. Melanye Price from Prairie View A&M University, Associate Professor at the University of Houston’s Hobby School of Public Affairs, Dr. Chris Bronk, and actor Deborah Hope.
This Talk of the Town panel weighs in our recent state and nationwide political news including Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s impeachment and President Joe Biden's recent fall.
Plus, the panel also discusses topics previously heard on Town Square revolving around social issues such as gun violence, mass shootings, and entertainment topics such as the recent finales of the acclaimed TV shows Ted Lasso and Succession.
Deborah Hope stars in Dirt Dogs Theater Company’s production August: Osage County, which runs through June 10, 2023.
Guests:
Dr. Melanye Price
- Professor of Political Science, Prairie View A&M University
- Director of the Ruth J. Simmons Center for Race and Justice
Dr. Chris Bronk
- Associate Professor, Hobby School of Public Affairs, University of Houston
- Non-resident Scholar, Baker Institute for Energy Studies
Deborah Hope
- Actor
- YouTube Personality, “Car Takes with Deborah & Joel”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30. As the season begins, meteorologists and other experts analyze and weigh in on what kind of season this year will be.
First, we talk with Space City Weather Meteorologist Eric Berger, who shares his insight on the outlook of this year’s hurricane season and what Houstonians can expect.
Then, we’re joined by Brent Taylor, Chief Communications Officer for the Houston Office of Emergency Management (OEM), who discusses tips for extreme weather, how to best prepare for the season, and where residents can call for help.
Plus, Dan Bawden, Owner and President of Legal Eagle Contractors, joins the conversation to share advice on how to best prepare your house before a storm hits.
To view OEM's checklist for building a disaster supplies kit, click here or if you would like to view the American Red Cross' advice for hurricane preparedness, click here.
To view Zip Zone's Houston Evacuation Map, click here.
If you would like to learn more about receiving emergency alerts from AlertHouston, click here.
Guests:
Eric Berger
- Meteorologis
- Editor, Space City Weather
Brent Taylor
- Chief Communications Officer, Houston Office of Emergency Management
Dan Bawden
- Owner & President, Legal Eagle Contractors, Co.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we speak with Harvard Medical School Professor, Dr. Caroline Apovian, who discusses Ozempic and Wegovy, particularly how they’re being used successfully for weight loss, and new reports that the drugs are effective at combatting other addictive behaviors, like drinking alcohol, shopping, and nail biting.
Then, we are joined by Assistant Professor of Family Medicine at UTMB Health, Dr. Samuel Mathis, who shares his insight on current medical-related topics making news.
Dr. Mathis discusses whether or not we will see a possible resurgence of mpox this summer, following recent outbreaks occurring in Chicago, and the effectiveness rates of the mpox vaccine.
Also, Dr. Mathis discusses how individuals can tell the difference between cold, flu, and COVID-19 if they are sick, the record low hospitalization rates for COVID, and whether we should still be getting COVID boosters in the coming months.
Plus, listeners call in to share their health and medical-related questions for Dr. Mathis.
Guests:
Dr. Caroline Apovian
- Co-Director, Center for Weight Management and Wellness in the Division Of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension at Brigham and Women’s Hospital
- Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School
- Past President, The Obesity Society
Dr. Samuel Mathis
- Board Certified In Family Medicine & Integrative Medicine, UTMB Health
- Assistant Professor, Family Medicine, UTMB Health
- Medical Director, UTMB Employee Health
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Today, we’re LIVE on-location at the George R. Brown Convention Center to officially kick off Comicpalooza, which features everything from celebrity panels, cosplay, unique art, and more.
First, we speak with President of Comicpalooza Michael Heckman about what fans of all ages can expect to find at this year’s festival, including special events, celebrity appearances, and new attractions.
Then, award-winning podcast host Ming Chen, of I Sell Comics, discusses his history with Comicpalooza, what attracts people to these kinds of events, and the cultural impact of fan conventions. Fans can meet Ming Chen at Comicpalooza where he will host the cosplay contest and 5 live podcasts throughout the convention.
We are also joined by Exhibitor and Partnerships Manager of Comicpalooza, Sharon Boschi, who explains what fans can find from the over 500 exhibitors this year. Plus, Mega Mouse Arts owner, Megan Staba, discusses her current work creating art inspired by Japanese manga and anime.
Then, we converse with two individuals featured in Comicpalooza events. Koriey Dixon talked with us about the Itasha Showdown, an anime and pop culture themed car show, and award-winning cosplayer Sparrowhawk Cosplay shares the work and dedication that go into cosplay. She also serves as a judge in this year’s cosplay competition.
Plus, we hear from Captain Kirk himself William Shatner and Arrow actress Juliana Harkavy about how excited they are to be in Houston to chat with fans.
Comicpalooza is this Memorial Day weekend, May 26 - 28, 2023, at the George R. Brown Convention Center. For more information click here.
Guests:
Michael Heckman
- President, Comicpalooza
- President & CEO, Houston First Corporation
Ming Chen
- Award-winning Podcast Host, I Sell Comics
- Owner, A Shared Universe
Juliana Harkavy
- Actress, Arrow
William Shatner
- Actor, best known for playing Captain Kirk in Star Trek
Sharon Boschi
- Exhibitor & Partnerships Manager, Comicpalooza
Megan Staba
- Owner, Mega Mouse Arts
Koriey Dixon
- Itasha Showdown Track Coordinator
Sparrowhawk Cosplay
- Award-winning Cosplayer
- Cosplay Judge, 2023 Comicpalooza
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we are joined by Begonia Santos, the Executive Director & COO of the Queen Sofía Spanish Institute, who explains the work the Institute does in promoting cultural ties between the U.S. and Spain.
Also joining the program is His Excellency, Ambassador Santiago Cabanas, the Ambassador of Spain to the United States, who shares insight on the relations between the U.S. and Spain, and the work the Embassy of Spain in the U.S. does with the Queen Sofía Spanish Institute.
Then, we’re joined by Dr. Richard Kagan, Professor Emeritus of History at Johns Hopkins University, who discusses Spanish history in the United States, including early Spanish explorers that came to Texas.
Plus, University of Houston Associate Professor in History, Dr. Raúl Ramos joins the conversation to discuss the Queen Sofía Spanish Institute’s introduction of the Portal of Hispanic History to the Americas, an accessible and free extensive database of historical figures and events in Hispanic history.
The Portal of Hispanic History is available for the public’s use at the Houston Public Library Julia Ideson Building.
Guests:
Begonia Santos
- Executive Director & COO, Queen Sofía Spanish Institute
His Excellency, Ambassador Santiago Cabanas
- Ambassador of Spain to the United States
Dr. Richard Kagan
- Academy Professor & Arthur O. Lovejoy Professor Emeritus of History, Johns Hopkins University
- Member of the Board of Directors & Chair of Cultural Committee, Queen Sofía Spanish Institute
Professor Raúl Ramos
- Associate Professor in History, University of Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The Robb Elementary School Shooting in Uvalde, TX, resulted in the deaths of 19 children and 2 adults one year ago today on May 24, 2022, making it the deadliest school shooting in Texas history.
First, we talk with Camille Phillips, Education Reporter for Texas Public Radio, who updates us on the last year in Uvalde, how family members and residents feel today, and the current progress of the new school being built to replace Robb Elementary.
Then, we’re joined by CHRISTUS Children’s Pediatric Psychologist Dr. Kelli Franco, who shares her thoughts on how individuals and communities can heal from a traumatic event, and her experience as being a part of a team of psychologists that provided counseling to front-line workers at Uvalde Memorial Hospital in the week after the shooting.
We’re also joined by Dru Stevenson, Professor of Law at South Texas College of Law Houston, who explains what has been done legislatively in the state of Texas and nationwide to prevent further tragedies like the Robb Elementary school shooting.
Guests:
Camille Phillips
- Education Reporter, Texas Public Radio
Dr. Kelli Franco
- Pediatric Psychologist, CHRISTUS Children’s in San Antonio, TX
- Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine
Dru Stevenson
- Wayne Fischer Research Professor and Professor of Law, South Texas College of Law Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we speak with Rani Puranik, Co-Owner, Executive Vice President, and Global CFO of the Houston-based oil and gas equipment manufacturing firm Worldwide Oilfield Machine (WOM), about her new book 7 Letters to My Daughters: Light Lessons of Love, Leadership, and Legacy.
Puranik discusses her motivations for writing the book, how it takes readers on a journey through seven transformative phases of her life, and shares valuable life lessons she learned along the way to live a life of love, leadership, and legacy.
Plus, Puranik also discusses how she’s giving back through the non-profit Puranik Foundation, its mission to provide educational opportunities to open minds and inspire transformation, as well as the proposed NextGen Innovation Academy, a tuition-free charter school launching in West Houston next year.
7 Letters to My Daughters: Light Lessons of Love, Leadership, and Legacy will be released May 24, 2023, wherever books are sold.
Meet Rani Puranik at these Houston book signings: Brazos Bookstore on Tuesday, May 30, from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.; Tootsies on Wednesday, May 31, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Guest:
Rani Puranik
- Co-Owner, Executive Vice President and Global CFO, Worldwide Oilfield Machine (WOM)
- Author, 7 Letters to My Daughters: Light Lessons of Love, Leadership, and Legacy
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
May is National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, which seeks to bring awareness to those who are seriously affected by these conditions.
For the full hour, we’re joined by Dr. David Corry, Professor of Medicine in Immunology, Allergy and Rheumatology at Baylor College of Medicine, to discuss what people can do to combat the woes of allergies, asthma, and sinusitis.
Dr. Corry explains how viewers can reduce their exposure to allergy triggers, whether climate change is a contributor as to why allergies seem to be getting worse, when someone should go see a doctor, and more. Plus, he shares insight on new treatments and therapies that can bring relief to patients suffering from allergy and asthma.
Guest:
Dr. David Corry
- Professor of Medicine in Immunology, Allergy & Rheumatology, Baylor College of Medicine
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we talk to political science professor Dr. Ryan Kennedy who discusses the testimony of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman before Congress, the threats artificial intelligence could pose, and Congress’ efforts to address these concerns.
Then, we’re joined by The Hollywood Reporter West Coast TV Editor Lesley Goldberg who discusses the latest updates on the 2023 writers strike, why the strike is happening now, and the issues writers are experiencing. The Writer’s Guild of America (WGA) has been on strike since May 2, against the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP).
Film, TV, and Media Studies professor Dr. Miranda Banks is also with us to share insight on why the WGA has had more strikes than any other guild, history about previous writers strikes, and the current landscape of the modern entertainment industry.
Plus, theatre journalist Robert Viagas explains the latest on 2023 Tony Awards and what effect the writers strike will have on Broadway’s favorite awards show.
Guests:
Dr. Ryan Kennedy
- Professor of Political Science, University of Houston
- Specializes in the area of AI and public policy
Dr. Miranda Banks
- Associate Professor and Chair of Film, Television and Media Studies, Loyola Marymount University
- Author, The Writers: A History of American Screenwriters and Their Guild
Lesley Goldberg
- West Coast TV Editor, The Hollywood Reporter
- Co-host of the weekly industry podcast, TV’s Top 5
Robert Viagas
- Theatre Journalist
- Author, “Right This Way: A History of The Audience”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we speak with Grammy Award-winning performance artist, activist, and writer Ty Defoe, who joins us to discuss his work as director for Theatre Under the Stars’ production of RENT.
Defoe also shares his insight on the importance of Native American and queer representation in the arts, how this has informed his approach to directing RENT, and how he sees his work having impact for future generations.
RENT, presented by Theatre Under The Stars, is now playing at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts in Houston until Sunday, May 28, 2023. For more information, click here.
Then, we shift the conversation to politics. Political analyst Nancy Sims and political science professor Dr. John Mark Hansen join us to discuss the latest on the 2023 debt ceiling crisis and their thoughts on the nation’s two-party system.
Guests:
Ty Defoe
- Performance Artist, Activist & Writer
- Grammy Award-Winner
- Director, Theatre Under The Stars production of RENT
Nancy Sims
- Political Analyst & Lecturer In Political Science Department, University of Houston
Dr. John Mark Hansen
- Professor in Political Science, University of Chicago
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we are joined by filmmaker Ursula Macfarlane who discusses her latest film, the Netflix documentary Anna Nicole Smith: You Don’t Know Me, which delves into the life of model and TV personality Anna Nicole Smith and the ambiguity surrounding her life.
Macfarlane shares insight on Anna Nicole Smith’s rise to fame, the way the media perceived her at the time, and the documentary’s approach to revealing her life, featuring never-before-seen footage, home movies, and interviews from those who knew her.
Anna Nicole Smith: You Don’t Know Me is available to stream now on Netflix.
Then, we’re joined by Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at UT Health Houston, Dr. Leslie Taylor, PhD, and Director of Networks and Policy at the HOPE National Resource Center at Tufts Medical Center, Dr. Allison Stephens, MED, PhD, who discuss childhood trauma and how it can affect a person’s life as an adult.
Dr. Taylor discusses adverse childhood experiences, the consequences that it can have on children growing up, and how individuals can have increased resiliency in the wake of trauma and adversity.
Dr. Stephens shares insight on how children experience trauma, how positive experiences can ease the long-term impact of trauma, and the work she does with the HOPE National Resource Center.
Guests:
Ursula Macfarlane
- Director, Anna Nicole Smith: You Don’t Know Me
Dr. Leslie Taylor, PhD
- Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, UT Health Houston
- Clinical Director of Child Services for the Trauma and Resilience Center, UT Health Houston
Dr. Allision Stephens, MEd, PhD
- Director of Networks and Policy, HOPE National Resource Center, Tufts Medical Center
- Assistant Professor of Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we speak with founding member of the alternative rock band They Might Be Giants, John Flansburgh, who joins us to discuss the 40th anniversary of the band and their current U.S. tour.
They Might Be Giants will be at Houston’s House of Blues on Saturday, May 20, 2023, at 6:30pm. For more information, click here.
Then, we’re joined by legendary performer Donny Osmond, who shares stories from his amazing career from growing up in the entertainment industry, performing with his family members, and his solo career.
Osmond also discusses how he finds balance between his entertainer life and personal life, his upcoming summer tour, award-winning Las Vegas show, and what he’s learned from his almost 60 years of performing.
Guests:
John Flansburgh
- Grammy Award-Winning Musician
- Founding Member, They Might Be Giants
Donny Osmond
- Singer, Actor, Dancer, TV Host, Author
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we speak with Dr. Karen Fine, a holistic veterinarian who’s been practicing veterinary medicine for over 30 years.
Dr. Fine joins the conversation to discuss her recently released memoir, “The Other Family Doctor: A Veterinarian Explores What Animals Can Teach Us About Love, Life and Mortality”. Dr. Fine explains what her animal patients, and her own personal pets, have taught her and how these lessons have helped her navigate through life’s challenges.
Throughout the program, Dr. Fine also shares insight on the human-animal bond, pet insurance policies, and the role that veterinarians play in the treatment of our furry friends.
Plus, Dr. Fine takes listeners’ calls to answer their pet-related questions.
Guest:
Dr. Karen Fine
- Integrative Veterinarian
- Author, The Other Family Doctor: A Veterinarian Explores What Animals Can Teach Us About Love, Life and Mortality”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In honor of Mother’s Day, we celebrate mothers and every maternal figure in our lives who instill care and shape us into the people we become.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse producer Celeste Schurman joins Ernie for this celebration of motherhood. She shares her experience as a mother, what she’s learned, and what she hopes to impart to her own kids.
We’re also joined by Maternal Wellness Specialist Marcella Kelson who explains her mission to provide authentic, tangible, and empowering tools for millennial mothers. She also offers advice for challenges that arise during motherhood, including, the pressure to “do it right,” balancing work and home life, and new issues mothers experience in today’s world.
Plus, listeners call in to share their admiration and Mother’s Day wishes for their moms and maternal figures.
Guests:
Celeste Schurman
- Mom of Two
- Producer, Town Square with Ernie Manouse
Marcella Kelson
- Maternal Wellness Specialist with Background in Psychotherapy, Developmental Psychology, and Life Coaching
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
May 10 is Small Business Day. We talk with Timothy Jeffcoat, District Director for Small Business Administration Houston, who discusses the impact small businesses have on the Houston community and what a possible default on the national debt could mean for the country and for small businesses, in particular.
Then, it’s our inaugural “Talk of the Town!”, where our panel of guests share their thoughts on topics recently covered on Town Square with Ernie Manouse. This panel features author and Managing Editor of The Houston Defender, ReShonda Tate; MasterChef winner and restaurant owner, Christine Ha; and psychologist Dr. Jeff Temple.
They weigh in on topics such as the recent legal troubles of former President Donald Trump and George Santos, America’s healthcare system, and pop culture events such as Eurovision and the Royal Coronation of King Charles III, and more.
Plus, the panel responds to calls, emails, and tweets from listeners on their thoughts.
Guests:
Timothy Jeffcoat
- District Director, Small Business Administration Houston
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Psychologist
- Vice Dean for Research and Scholarship at the School of Nursing, UTMB Health
- John Sealy Distinguished Chair in Community Health, UTMB Health
- Director of the Center for Violence Prevention, UTMB Health
ReShonda Tate
- Managing Editor, The Houston Defender
- Author
Christine Ha
- Chef & Owner, The Blind Goat, Xin Chao, and soon-to-open Stuffed Belly
- Winner of MasterChef, Season 3
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
According to a survey by the CDC, an estimated 51 million people in the U.S. suffer from chronic pain, which for some can be a life full of suffering.
For the full hour, physician, researcher, and author Dr. Haider Warraich joins us to discuss his book The Song of Our Scars: The Untold Story of Pain, as well as his own personal struggles overcoming pain without the use of opioids.
Dr. Warraich explains how his book is an indictment of modern medicine’s failure to understand that pain has led to less effective care and instead offers a reexamination of pain as a cultural experience rather than just a physical sensation.
Plus, we also hear Dr. Warraich’s thoughts on how we can transition away from potentially addictive opioids as a method of treating pain, alternative treatments, and advice for how we can not let pain affect how we live our lives.
Guest:
Dr. Haider Warraich
- Physician, Researcher and Writer at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, VA Boston Healthcare and Harvard Medical School
- Author, The Song of Our Scars: The Untold Story of Pain
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
It was another weekend of violence in America. A mass shooting at an outlet mall in Allen, TX, killed eight people and injured seven others. This brings the total of mass shootings in America to more than 200, according to the Gun Violence Archive. Additionally, a car crash in Brownsville, TX, resulted in the deaths of 8 pedestrians, injuring 10 others, with motives still unclear.
These tragedies, along with four publicized shootings to occur in the U.S., within a one-week period last month, and a massacre in Cleveland, TX, resulting in the deaths of five people, have many frustrated and questioning how so much violence has become a common occurrence in America.
For the full hour, we welcome back psychologist Dr. Jeff Temple who joins us to share his thoughts on the persisting issue of gun violence in the country, why there are so many mass shootings taking place in the U.S., and his thoughts on overall violence in our society.
We’re also joined by psychologist Dr. Dennis Reidy, who explains the patterns of behavior that can lead to violence, his thoughts on how violence in the U.S. is more than a mental health issue, and whether the rate of violence is increasing compared to the past.
Plus, we talk with Texas State Representative Jarvis Johnson (TX-139) about the House Community Safety Select Committee’s vote today to advance House Bill 2744, which would raise the age to buy semi-automatic rifles in Texas.
Guests:
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Psychologist
- Vice Dean for Research and Scholarship at the School of Nursing, UTMB Health
- The John Sealy Distinguished Chair in Community Health, UTMB Health
- Director of the Center for Violence Prevention, UTMB Health
Dr. Dennis Reidy
- Associate Professor in School of Public Health, Georgia State University
- Director of Community Outreach & Engagement for the Center for Research on Interpersonal Violence, Georgia State University
Rep. Jarvis Johnson
- Texas House of Representatives, District 139
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
May 6, 2023, will mark the United Kingdom’s first royal coronation in 70 years. The entire world will witness King Charles III as he formally becomes King at the iconic Westminster Abbey, where every British Royal has been crowned for over 900 years.
Newsweek royal reporter, James Crawford-Smith, fills us in on what is going on in London, from preparations to the public response, and what we can expect for the big ceremony.
Then, Helen Mann, former British Vice Consul for the British Consulate General in Houston, shares her thoughts on the coronation ceremony and what it represents to British society on both a historical and cultural level.
Also, joining the conversation is University of New Hampshire history professor Nicoletta Gullace, who discusses the significance of the coronation, the challenges the monarchy faces, and what King Charles III hopes to achieve with this celebration.
Plus, Guy Streatfeild, the owner of British Isles, a Houston store known for selling British and Irish merchandise, explains how his store will celebrate the big event. British Isles is hosting a watch party of the televised ceremony starting at 7 a.m. CT, and the celebration will go on until 6 p.m. For more information, click here.
Guests:
James Crawford Smith
- Royal Reporter, Newsweek
Helen Mann
- Former British Vice Consul, British Consulate General in Houston
- Former Panelist, Manor of Speaking
Nicoletta Gullace
- Associate Professor of History, University of New Hampshire
Guy Streatfeild
- Owner, British Isles
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The Eurovision Song Contest is an international songwriting competition, featuring participants from countries in Europe and across the world. Occurring annually since 1956, it’s the longest-running annual internationally televised music competition in the world.
For the full hour, we’re joined by William Lee Adams, the founder and editor of Wiwibloggs, the most-followed independent website and YouTube channel devoted to Eurovision.
Adams shares his thoughts on this year’s 2023 Eurovision competition, taking place in Liverpool, as well as his insight on the history of the international song contest and its significance.
He also discusses his upcoming memoir Wild Dances: My Queer and Curious Journey to Eurovision, which details his early childhood growing up as a queer, biracial kid from small-town Georgia, to becoming the world’s most sought-after expert on Eurovision.
Wild Dances: My Queer and Curious Journey to Eurovision, is set for release on May 9, 2023, wherever books are sold.
Guest:
William Lee Adams
- Founder and Editor of the Eurovision blog and YouTube channel Wiwibloggs
- Author, Wild Dances: My Queer and Curious Journey to Eurovision
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For over 50 years Circus Vasquez has been entertaining audiences of all ages as the largest family-owned circus in the U.S.
We are joined by circus artist Jose Alberto Vázquez, a 4th generation Vázquez performer, who discusses growing up in the family circus, his love for juggling, and what audiences can expect at Circus Vázquez.
We also hear from Semen Shuster, aka Housch-ma-Housch, an award-winning clown, who explains what inspired his iconic appearance and commitment towards entertaining audiences through his diversity of skills from juggling, magic, pantomime, and more.
Circus Vázquez will be in Houston May 5 – 14, 2023, at Almeda Mall. For more information, click here.
Then, we are joined by actor and singer Michael James Scott, who is currently starring as The Genie in Disney’s Aladdin on Broadway, having played the role around the world.
Scott discusses his role as the host for the 2023 Tommy Tune Awards, which recognizes the best musical theater talent in Houston. He also shares his reactions to the recently released nominations for the 76th Tony Awards.
The 2023 Tommy Tune Awards, presented by Theatre Under the Stars, will be held on Thursday, May 4, at 7pm CT at the Hobby Center for Performing Arts. For more information, click here.
Guests:
Jose Alberto Vázquez
- Circus Artist, Circus Vazquez
Semen Shuster aka “Housch-ma-Housch”
- Award-Winning Clown and Comedian
Michael James Scott
- Actor & Singer
- Currently Starring as The Genie In Disney’s Aladdin on Broadway
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we discuss Keels & Wheels, an event showcasing over 200 classic cars and more than 100 classic boats. We’re joined by Gary Garnett who explains this year’s theme “Racing Thru Time, Man’s Need for Speed”, and what we can expect from this year’s show, which raises money for local charities.
The 27th Annual Keels & Wheels Concours D ’Elegance will take place at the Lakewood Yacht Club in Seabrook, TX, on May 6 and 7. For more information click here.
Then, we are joined by Jamie Butters, Executive Editor for Automotive News, and “The High-Tech Texan”, Michael Garfield, who discuss technology in the automotive industry as well as share insight on what advancements are in store for vehicles in the future.
Butters and Garfield also weigh in on everything from the giant leap in safety technology built into cars and trucks, the expansion of electric vehicles, and when we can expect autonomous cars to become more available.
Check out Jamie Butters’ Daily Drive podcast, here.
Catch Michael Garfield’s High-Tech Texan radio show each Saturday from 11am – 1pm KPRC AM 950 or on the iHeartRadio app.
Guests:
Gary Garnett
- Board of Directors, Keels & Wheels
Jamie Butters
- Executive Editor, Automotive News
- Host, Daily Drive podcast
Michael Garfield
- Radio/TV Host, The High-Tech Texan
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Last week, Spring Branch ISD cancelled a planned field trip for students to see a production of James and the Giant Peach presented by Main Street Theater, after parents raised concerns over actors playing cross-gender roles.
First, we speak with Shannon Emerick from Main Street Theater who responds to the concerns and shares insight on the misinformation aimed at the production.
We are then joined by Associate Professor Dr. David DeMatthews from the University of Texas at Austin College of Education, who discusses his thoughts on the Spring Branch decision and explains the challenges school boards face when having to make difficult decisions.
Also, Assistant Professor Dr. Allison Master from the University of Houston’s College of Education shares her perspective as a parent and researcher that studies gender.
Plus, listeners call in to share their comments and questions on this topic.
Guests:
Shannon Emerick
- Director of Marketing and Communications, Main Street Theater
Dr. David DeMatthews
- Associate Professor in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy in the College of Education, The University of Texas at Austin
Dr. Allison Master
- Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychological, Health & Learning Sciences in the College of Education, The University of Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we speak with actress Mary Badham, who is best known for playing protagonist Scout in the 1962 film adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird, and at the time, becoming the youngest person to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Badham is currently playing Mrs. Dubose in the national tour of Aaron Sorkin’s stage adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird, and she continues to spread the story’s message of social injustice across the U.S.
To Kill a Mockingbird will be at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts in Houston until April 30, 2023. For more information, click here.
Then, we shift topics to continue the conversation on American healthcare. Dr. Abdul El-Sayed shares his insight on our country’s healthcare system and how it compares to other developed countries.
Dr. El-Sayed also discusses flaws in the system we currently have, his thoughts on possible solutions, and the obstacles preventing change from being implemented.
Guests:
Mary Badham
- Academy Award-Nominated Actress
Dr. Abdul El-Sayed
- Physician
- Epidemiologist
- Author, “Medicare For All: A Citizens Guide”
- Host, “America Dissected” Podcast
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
You heard it here first! The Ensemble Theatre shared its 2023-2024 season lineup right here on Town Square with Ernie Manouse!
Artistic Director Eileen J. Morris joins us to share details about all of the shows in the theatre’s 47th season, centered on the central theme of “Legacy Alive: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future”.
Morris also discusses the rich history of The Ensemble Theatre, the youth and education programs, and the various other series, post-show discussions, and readings they offer.
The Ensemble Theatre’s 2023-2024 Season
Chicken & Biscuits
A comedy written by Douglas Lyons that deals with family, religion, & spirituality.
A Motown Christmas
A festive, holiday musical revue featuring traditional Christmas carols with the soulful sounds of Motown.
The Piano Lesson
A Pulitzer Prize-winning drama by August Wilson about the legacy of a family and their treasured heirloom, a piano that’s been passed down from an enslaved ancestor. The play will be directed by Eileen J. Morris.
Beatbox: A Raparetta
A contemporary musical hip hop piece that coincides with the 50th anniversary of the genre.
Midnight, Friday the 13th
A murder mystery whodunit thriller, that will feature audience participation.
Pullman Porter Blues
A musical by Cheryl West that takes audiences on a music-filled trip back in time to the Pullman trains of the 1930’s. Chuck Smith from the Goodman Theatre in Chicago will direct this production.
For more information on all these productions, the youth education programs, and Celebrating the Creative Journey series, visit EnsembleHouston.com.
Save the date for The Ensemble Theatre Anniversary Gala on Saturday, August 26, 2023, and for the Annual Golf Tournament on Monday, October 16, 2023.
Guest:
Eileen J. Morris
- Artistic Director, The Ensemble Theatre
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we’re joined by famed journalist Mary Louise Kelly, best known for her role as co-host of NPR’s award-winning program All Things Considered.
Kelly joins us to discuss her recently released memoir, It. Goes. So. Fast. The Year of No Do-Over. The book chronicles her efforts to balance her work life and personal life, particularly as a mother, during a year of losing her father, her eldest son’s final year living at home before college, and other curve balls that come along the way.
Plus, we learn about Kelly’s impressive journalism career that has taken her all over the world covering wars, threats to national security, spy agencies, and more.
Guest:
Mary Louise Kelly
- Co-Host, All Things Considered
- Author, Goes. So. Fast. The Year of No Do-Overs
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
April 2023 marks the 10th anniversary of Houston Matters, Houston Public Media’s morning talk show that is a daily guide to the people, places, issues, and ideas that define Greater Houston.
Houston Matters executive producer and host, Craig Cohen, joins us to discuss the history of the show, the biggest stories he’s covered, how he’s seen Houston change over the last ten years, and some of his favorite memories from the show.
Throughout the hour, the producing team joins Cohen to reminisce on highlights and significant moments from the previous decade, as well as share fun facts about themselves and their involvement with the show.
Guests:
Craig Cohen
- Executive Producer and Host, Houston Matters
Michael Hagerty
- Senior Producer, Houston Matters
Joshua Zinn
- Producer, Houston Matters
Troy Schulze
- Producer, Houston Matters
William Menjivar
- Producer, Houston Matters
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
April is Autism Awareness Month, a month dedicated to raise awareness and promote acceptance and inclusion for people with autism.
First, we speak with Eric Garcia, author of the book We’re Not Broken: Changing the Autism Conversation. Garcia explains the gaps that exist in supporting those on the spectrum and misconceptions made about people with autism.
Then, we are joined by social psychologist and author of Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity, Dr. Devon Price, who explains the challenges faced by individuals with autism, insight on speculated causes, and his thoughts on when parents should get their kids diagnosed.
We also talk to Dr. Jan Blacher, Director of SEARCH Family Autism Resource Center at University of California Riverside, who shares insight into her research on autism as well as resources for parents to help support children with autism.
For more information on Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), visit the CDC website here.
For local Texas resources, visit TheHarrisCenter.org or TexasAutismSociety.org.
Guests:
Eric Garcia
- Senior Washington Correspondent, The Independent
- Author, We’re Not Broken: Changing the Autism Conversation
Dr. Devon Price
- Social Psychologist
- Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychology, Loyola University Chicago
- Author, Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity
Dr. Jan Blacher
- Distinguished Research Professor at the School of Education, University of California Riverside
- Distinguished Research Professor, Department of Psychology, UCLA
- Director, SEARCH Family Autism Resource Center at UC Riverside
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Today, April 21, 2023, is the last day of the Houston Public Media Spring Radio Drive. We discuss where the support and donations go in order to produce the content listeners enjoy every single day.
We are joined by the valued staff members of our station who share more about the work they do and their commitment to assuring that the standard of Houston Public Media is upheld.
Join the conversation and find out the process that goes into how this content is produced, as well as our staff’s dedication to giving listeners the high-quality stories they tune in for every day.
Give by midnight tonight (April 21, 2023) and your gift will be triple matched! To donate, click here.
Guests:
Lisa Shumate
- Associate Vice President, UH System & General Manager, Houston Public Media
David Warren
- Manager, Community Fundraising Program, Houston Public Media
Jack Williams
- Executive Producer for Daily News, Houston Public Media
Christina Lee
- Executive Producer of Enterprise and Investigative Journalism, Houston Public Media
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we speak with lawyer Jed Silverman, who joins us to discuss the legality of marijuana use in Texas and other states in the U.S., as well as the ongoing debate over the legalization of the drug for recreational use. Currently, twenty-one states and Washington D.C., have legalized recreational use of cannabis, while thirty-eight states have legalized it for medical use.
We also talk with Dr. Staci Gruber, Director of Marijuana Investigations for Neuroscientific Discovery (MIND) at McLean Hospital, who explains the complexity of cannabis, its utilization for medical purposes, and the effect that it has on the brains of teens and adults.
Nico Richardson, CEO of Texas Original, one of three licensed medical cannabis providers in Texas, also joins the conversation. Richardson explains how the dispensary connects Texans to a virtual clinic to see if they qualify for medical cannabis.
Plus, the owner of a local CBD shop, Hemplication, explains the wide variety of products available and their differences.
Guests:
Jed Silverman
- Lawyer
- President, Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association
Staci Gruber, PhD
- Associate Professor of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School
- Director of the Cognitive and Clinical Neuroimaging Core, McLean Hospital
- Director of Marijuana Investigations for Neuroscientific Discovery (MIND), McLean Hospital
Nico Richardson
- CEO, Texas Original
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Best known for playing John-Boy Walton in the classic family sitcom The Waltons, actor Richard Thomas is with us today discussing his current role as Atticus Finch in the national Broadway tour of To Kill a Mockingbird.
Thomas shares insight on his approach for playing the beloved character from Harper Lee’s celebrated classic novel, as well as how this stage adaptation written by Academy Award-winner Aaron Sorkin stays true to the source material while also implementing changes to reflect social issues of today.
The national tour of To Kill A Mockingbird plays at The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts in Houston April 25 – 30, 2023. For more information, click here.
Then, we are joined by Broadway star Faith Prince, who discusses her career on stage having starred in hit productions such as Bells Are Ringing, A Catered Affair, and Guys & Dolls, for which she won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical.
Prince shares details about developing a strategy in her career beginnings, current projects she’s working on apart from the stage, and her work helping University of Houston acting students at McGovern College of the Arts.
Catch Faith Prince in a musical showcase concert, A Little Faith: An Evening with Faith Prince and Our Broadway Stars of Tomorrow, Thursday, April 20, 2023, at 7:30pm at the University of Houston’s Quintero Theatre.
To watch Richard Thomas' 1973 Emmy Award Acceptance Speech, click here.
To watch Ernie Manouse's previous interview with Faith Prince on the show InnerVIEWS, click here.
Guests:
Richard Thomas
- Emmy Award-Winning Actor
- Plays Atticus Finch in the National Tour of To Kill A Mockingbird
Faith Prince
- Tony Award-winning Broadway Star
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
April 19, 2023, is the 30th anniversary of the fire that erupted at the Branch Davidian compound in Waco, TX, that resulted in the deaths of 76 people, bringing the 51-day siege between its occupants and federal agents to a tragic end.
Today, we’re joined by criminal defense lawyer Dick DeGuerin, who represented Branch Davidian leader David Koresh during the standoff with federal agents.
DeGuerin discusses what he experienced as Koresh’s attorney, including visiting the compound, and convincing him to surrender and stand trial. He also shares his thoughts on the aftermath of the tragedy.
Then, we speak with Waco survivor and author of Waco: A Survivor’s Story David Thibodeau, who shares his story of going to the Mt. Carmel compound and what transpired during the standoff.
Thibodeau also shares details about life in the compound during the 51-day siege, his association with Koresh, as well as what he experienced when the fire broke out.
If you would like to learn more about the Waco siege and its survivors, click here.
To listen to Town Square's previous show about the Waco siege, click here.
Guests:
Dick DeGuerin
- Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Adjunct Professor, University of Texas Law School
David Thibodeau
- Waco Survivor
- Author, Waco: A Survivor’s Story
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Today, we speak with political science professor Dr. Bob Stein from Rice University to discuss current and recent events in politics.
Dr. Stein shares his thoughts on the recent expulsion and reinstatement of Tennessee lawmakers Rep. Justin J. Pearson and Rep. Justin Jones and the ethics of who has the right to remove a public official from office.
Dr. Stein also shares his thoughts on the candidates in the 2024 Presidential race. Will former President Trump earn the nomination from the Republican Party despite his recent legal troubles?
Plus, he weighs in on the race for Mayor of Houston as he shares his predictions for which candidate has the advantage for the upcoming election.
Guest:
Dr. Bob Stein
- Professor of Political Science, Rice University
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
We’re LIVE on-location at The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art where we will discuss Houston’s beloved tradition, the Houston Art Car Parade and Festival. It’s an annual celebration of art cars that’s been held for decades.
First, we speak with Tommy Pace, Executive Director of The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art, who explains the history of The Orange Show as well as what Houstonians can find at the 2023 Houston Legendary Art Car Ball and the Art Car Parade.
We also speak with Pete Gershon, an art car historian, who discusses what an art car is, the history of Houston’s first art car parades, and how the city embraces individuality and identity.
Also, joining the conversation is art car artist and President of the Houston Art Car Klub, Rebecca Lowe, who talks about her love for the transformed vehicles. Lowe also shares details about her own art cars, including one that will be featured at this year’s parade, “Map of Space and Time”.
Then, teacher, art car artist, and one of this year’s Art Car Parade honorees, Anna Bass, discusses how she makes an art car each year with her high school students. Through the process of designing and building an art car, the students learn collaboration skills and the rewarding experience of having their artwork seen by the city. Their vehicle this year is titled, “Panther Dreams”.
Guests:
Tommy Pace
- Executive Director, The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art
Pete Gershon
- Curator of Programs, The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art
- Art Car Historian
Rebecca Lowe
- Art Car Artist
- President, Houston Art Car Klub
Anna Bass
- Teacher, Northside High School
- Art Car Artist & 2023 Art Car Parade Honoree
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Dr. Ricardo Nuila joins us to discuss his book The People’s Hospital: Hope and Peril in American Medicine, which follows five uninsured Houstonians each denied access to care until they come across a hospital in Houston where genuine care comes first.
From his experiences as a physician at Ben Taub Hospital in Houston, the hospital featured in his book, Dr. Nuila discusses his experiences in public healthcare as well as how Ben Taub provides a safety net to uninsured patients.
Dr. Nuila also shares his thoughts on the failings of American’s healthcare system, due to its overcomplicated nature, high costs, and failure to adequately address the needs of those who don’t have insurance.
Plus, we hear from Christian Garza, a patient featured in The People’s Hospital. He shares his experience of struggling to find coverage while dealing with debilitating knee pain and later kidney disease, which led him to seeking care at Ben Taub Hospital.
Guests:
Dr. Ricardo Nuila
- Physician
- Author, The People’s Hospital: Hope and Peril in American Medicine
- Associate Professor of Medicine, Medical Ethics, and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine
Christian Garza
- Patient featured in The People’s Hospital
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we speak with acclaimed trumpeter and composer Chris Botti, who joins us to discuss his celebrated music career as well as his commitment to perfecting his craft as an instrumental artist.
Botti also fills us in on his process for creating his first album in ten years, and what audiences can expect from his upcoming performances with the Houston Symphony this weekend, April 14 – 16, 2023. For more information, click here.
Botti at Sea is another opportunity to enjoy incredible music from the Grammy Award-winning trumpeter, along with a host of other musicians. To learn more, visit BottiAtSea.com.
To watch Ernie Manouse’s previous interview with Chris Botti on the show InnerVIEWS, click here. If you would also like to hear the “Ernie Theme” composed by Botti, click here.
For the rest of the hour, we discuss the current landscape of arts education in the U.S. with Eepi Chaad, Director of Partnerships & Learning for Arts Connect Houston.
Chaad shares her thoughts on the importance of arts education in American schools, as well as the benefits that it can have on students, particularly with the effects of the pandemic.
Plus, several local art and music teachers from the Houston area join us to share their experiences as educators of the arts.
Guests:
Chris Botti
- Grammy Award-winning Trumpeter & Composer
Eepi Chaad
- Director of Partnerships & Learning, Arts Connect Houston
Matt Taylor
- Choir Director, Clear Creek High School
Monet Wright-Salone
- Director of Theatre, Westfield High School
Gina Messick Farquharson
- Art Teacher, Jack Yate High School
- Winner, Teacher of the Year Award
Roshunda Jones-Koumba
- Theater Director, G.W. Carver High School
- Tony Award Winner, Excellence in Theatre Education
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade last year, the landscape regarding abortion access in the U.S. has been fraught with much uncertainty for patients and providers due to fluctuating restrictions.
First, we speak with correspondent for The Nation, Amy Littlefield, who fills us in on the latest news regarding abortion access in the U.S. and the state of Texas.
Littlefield shares details about a lawsuit in which five women are suing the state of Texas after being denied medically necessary abortions, and the recent ruling by a Texas U.S. District Judge that the FDA improperly approved the abortion pill, Mifepristone, twenty years ago.
Then, we are joined by Professor of Law for The University of Texas at Austin, Elizabeth Sepper, who shares her expertise on the recent ruling over Mifepristone. She explains the unprecedented nature of a single judge overruling the FDA’s decision and the effects this ruling could have going forward.
Plus, Sepper weighs in on recent lawsuits and news stories that are affecting, or could have lasting effects, on the future of abortion access and how restrictions are enforced through state laws.
Guests:
Amy Littlefield
- Abortion Access Correspondent, The Nation
Elizabeth Sepper
- Professor of Law, The University of Texas at Austin
- Expert in Health Law & Equality
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
You heard it here first! Performing Arts Houston (PAH) announced its 2023-2024 Season lineup right here on Town Square with Ernie Manouse!
For the full hour, we’re joined by PAH President & CEO Meg Booth, Director of Artistic Programming Lee Strickland, and Director of Education Claire Williamson to share details on the all the shows in the upcoming season.
We learn about what audiences can expect from the shows this season which celebrate milestones, share moments that inspire joy, as well as artists who embrace life with curiosity, humor, & curiosity.
For more information on all these productions, visit PerformingArtsHouston.org.
Performing Arts Houston’s 2023-2024 Season Lineup:
Bluey’s Big Play
July 29 – 30, 2023
It’s the first live theatrical adaptation of the children’s Emmy-Award winning animated series, Bluey, featuring an original story by creator Joe Brumm, new music by composer Joff Bush, and life-sized puppets of the beloved characters.
MOMIX: Alice
September 16 – 17, 2023
The Connecticut-based contemporary dance company combines dance, acrobatics, and illusions in the newest work by Moses Pendleton inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland.
An Evening with Isaac Mizrahi
September 23, 2023
The actor, host, writer, designer, and producer Isaac Mizrahi and his band of jazz musicians perform an evening of cabaret, featuring comedic musings from his career and songs from artists such as Madonna, Billie Eilish, Barbara Streisand, and more.
John Waters: End of the World
October 13, 2023
Legendary director John Waters of Pink Flamingos, Female Trouble, Hairspray, and more, brings his new one-man spoken word comedy act to Houston on Friday the 13th.
Lila Downs: Día de Los Muertos
October 19, 2023
Grammy and Latin Grammy Award-winning singer Lila Downs brings the Día de Los Muertos celebration to Jones Hall, featuring folklorico dancing and a mariachi band.
Madagascar The Musical
October 20 – 21, 2023
The Houston debut of a new musical based on the DreamWorks animated film. It features high-energy dance numbers, excellent costumes, and comedy for all age groups.
An Evening with Howie Mandel
October 22, 2023
One of Comedy Central’s Top 100 Comics of All Time and Judge on America’s Got Talent, Howie Mandel makes his Performing Arts Houston stand-up comedy debut.
Step Afrika!: Drumfolk
October 27 – 28, 2023
In this Houston debut of the first professional dance company dedicated to the tradition of stepping, audiences will see a new work inspired by the Stono Rebellion of 1739. Step Afrika! was founded in 1994 by Houston native C. Brian Williams.
Vienna Boys Choir
November 1, 2023
Celebrating their 100th international tour, after 1000 tours in 100 different countries since 1924. The Vienna Boys Choir has been presented by PAH since 1979.
David Sedaris
November 3, 2023
See one of America’s pre-eminent humor writers, of books such as Holidays on Ice, Naked, Calypso, and more. Sedaris will sign books for all attendance at this talk.
New/Now: The Houston Artist Commissioning Project
January 19-20, 2024
This program showcases Houston artists from a wide range of artistic and cultural backgrounds. Applications for these awards are open through May 12, 2023. Winners will be announced later this summer. For an application and more details, click here.
Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo
January 23, 2024
The all-male ballet company returns with comedic parodies of classical ballets, all performed en pointe, for their 50th anniversary tour.
Time For Three
February 9, 2024
Classically trained instrumentalists and vocalists Charles Yang, Nick Kendall, and Ranaan Meyer, combine popular genres to create their own music and sound.
Manual Cinema: Leonardo!
February 23 – 24, 2024
A film created in real-time using puppets, props, live actors, and songs to bring Mo Willems’ children’s book Leonardo the Terrible Monster to life.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
March 7-9, 2024
This dance company celebrates the uniqueness of the African American cultural experience. Performing Arts Houston has presented Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater more than any other artist.
Bruce Liu, Piano
April 2, 2024
The first prize winner of the 18th International Chopin Competition (2021) makes his Houston debut.
The Princess Bride: An Inconceivable Evening with Cary Elwes
April 12, 2024
A chance to join The Princess Bride star, Cary Elwes, for a screening of the classic film, followed by a moderated discussion, with our own Ernie Manouse, of his experiences working on the film.
A Thousand Thoughts
April 13, 2024
A “live documentary” with the Kronos Quartet for their 50th anniversary tour with the ensemble on stage exploring their groundbreaking, multi-decade career.
Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain
April 30, 2024
The return of the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain with a comedic menagerie of music genres, where audiences are encouraged to bring their own ukuleles for a special play-along.
For more information on all these productions, visit PerformingArtsHouston.org.
Guests:
Meg Booth
- President & CEO, Performing Arts Houston
Lee Strickland
- Director of Artistic Programming, Performing Arts Houston
Claire Williamson
- Director of Education & Community Engagement, Performing Arts Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Does a better understanding of the history of Jesus help us to better understand the Christ of faith?
We speak with author, archeologist, and scholar Dr. L. Michael White, about the historical facts and evidence that speaks to the existence of Jesus.
Dr. White explains how while no physical evidence exists from Jesus’ time, the consensus amongst scholars suggests that Jesus was indeed a historical figure and discusses references to his life in writings from historians who came after his time.
Also, he shares insight on how Jesus’ story and teachings spread and transformed over time to become Christianity as we know it today.
Guest:
Dr. L. Michael White
- Author
- Archeologist
- R.N. Smith Professor Emeritus in Religious Studies, The University of Texas at Austin
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we speak with actor, singer, and dancer, Lea Sevola who joins us to discuss her role as Vivienne Kensington in the national tour of the Broadway hit Legally Blonde – The Musical presented by Theatre Under the Stars.
Sevola explains what audiences can expect from this musical based on the beloved film of the same name, including its main character’s tackling of stereotypes, sexism, snobbery, as well as serving as the ultimate tribute to girl power.
Legally Blonde – The Musical is now playing in Houston at The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts until April 16, 2023. For more information click here.
Then, Tax Day is less than two weeks away. We welcome back tax attorney Max “the Tax Man” Zimmerman, who shares what you need to know in order to get your taxes filed before the Tax Day deadline on Tuesday, April 18, 2023.
Zimmerman explains why refunds may be smaller this year, some by ten percent, and options for filing an extension. He also answers listeners tax questions and shares helpful resources.
There are a number of free tax preparation services. A couple options in our area are AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service and BakerRipley Tax Center.
Guests:
Lea Sevola
- Actor, Singer, Dancer
- Plays Vivienne Kensington in Legally Blonde the Musical
Max Zimmerman
- Tax Attorney, Brenner Global Associates
- Enrolled Agent, Licensed by the IRS
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we speak with notable attorney and Professor Emeritus at Harvard Law, Alan Dershowitz, who joins us to discuss the recent indictment of former President Donald Trump.
Dershowitz explains why he believes the case against Trump is weak and sets a negative precedent, touching on themes further explored in his book Get Trump: The Threat To Civil Liberties, Due Process and Our Constitutional Rule of Law.
To listen to Ernie Manouse’s previous interview with Alan Dershowitz on his show InnerVIEWS, click here.
In a time when we need unity, understanding, and love more than ever, we need to find people, places, and things we can all agree on that are simply wonderful. Our next guest joins us to help with the healing.
She’s been using her fame and philanthropic heart to help us all live better lives, children most of all.
As a co-founder of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, Marie Osmond shares her passion for the work of the nonprofit organization, the impact they’ve had on healthcare for children, and details about the 40th Anniversary celebration. Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, is our local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital.
We also talk with Osmond about her incredible and multifaceted career as a singer, actress, author, entrepreneur, public speaker, and TV talk show host. Her most recent album is Unexpected.
Guests:
Alan Dershowitz
- Professor Emeritus at Harvard Law
- Author, Get Trump: The Threat To Civil Liberties, Due Process and Our Constitutional Rule of Law
Marie Osmond
- Singer, Actress, Author, Talk Show Host, Entrepreneur & Public Speaker
- Co-Founder, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Today, April 4, 2023, Donald Trump became the first former U.S. President to be arraigned on criminal charges following his indictment by a Manhattan Grand Jury last week.
The indictment was unsealed, and the former President is charged with 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. He pleaded not guilty to on all 34 counts.
We are joined by retired U.S. District Judge, Vanessa Gilmore, and author and political analyst, Dr. Frank Sorrentino, to discuss and analyze the latest updates on the former President’s indictment.
Judge Gilmore explains the legal process of the indictment and her thoughts on the criminal charges revealed during the arraignment.
Dr. Sorrentino shares his insight and thoughts on this case against Donald Trump and the precedent this creates for political leaders.
We also discuss what we can expect from this case going forward into the 2024 Election as well as what other charges the former President might encounter in the coming months.
Guests:
Vanessa Gilmore
- Retired U.S. District Judge
Dr. Frank Sorrentino
- Author, “Presidential Power and The American Political System”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The issue of gun violence and mass shootings in the U.S. continues to concern and cause outrage for many Americans. In just over the first three months of 2023, there have been more than 130 mass shootings in the country, according to the Gun Violence Archive.
We speak with Katherine Schweit, former head of the FBI’s Active Shooter program, and author of the book Stop the Killing: How to End the Mass Shooting Crisis. Schweit’s mission is to teach people their role in ending gun violence in their community.
Schweit joins us to discuss mass shootings in the U.S. and share her thoughts on the steps that need to be taken to end this crisis plaguing the country.
Plus, listeners call in to ask questions and share their comments on this continuing issue.
Guest:
Katherine Schweit
- Attorney
- Retired FBI Special Agent
- Founder, Schweit Consulting
- Author, “Stop The Killing: How to End the Mass Shooting Crisis”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
March 31 is International Transgender Day of Visibility, a day to celebrate and recognize the contributions transgender people have made to society, as well as raise awareness on the discrimination they face around the world.
First, we speak with Charles “Rocky” Rhodes, Professor of Law at South Texas College of Law Houston, about the indictment by a New York Grand Jury of former President Donald Trump. Rhodes discusses the constitutionality of the indictment, what this means, and how it will affect the upcoming 2024 Presidential Election.
Then, actor, author, performance artist, and gender theorist, Kate Bornstein, joins us in honor of International Transgender Day of Visibility. She shares the story of her transition and the various work she’s done in her forty-year career as an activist.
Bornstein shares her thoughts on the state of transgender today and how it has changed over the years, the difference between nonbinary and gender nonconforming identities, and people coming out as trans at younger ages.
Plus, Bornstein also discusses the staggering amount of anti-trans legislation being introduced across the country and the continuing need for support amongst the trans community.
Guests:
Charles W. "Rocky" Rhodes
- Professor of Law
- Charles Weigel II Research Professor of State & Federal Constitutional Law, South Texas College of Law Houston
Kate Bornstein
- Actor, Playwright, Performance Artist, Gender Theorist
- Author, Gender Outlaw and My Gender Workbook
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
With the Texas Education Agency (TEA) takeover of Houston ISD, many concerns and questions have been raised over the impact this will have on the education of the city’s students.
First, we speak with Houston Public Media Education & Families Reporter, Dominic Anthony Walsh, who shares the latest updates on the takeover and what has come from the recent community meetings.
Then, we talk with Former TEA Deputy Commissioner and Education Reform Advocate, AJ Crabill, about his new book, Great on Their Behalf: Why School Boards Fail, How Yours Can Become Effective.
Drawing from his experience of helping school systems improve, Crabill shares his thoughts on what leads to school boards becoming ineffective, effective improvements that board members can adopt, and how to focus in on the needs of students.
Guests:
Dominic Anthony Walsh
- Education and Families Reporter, Houston Public Media
AJ Crabill
- Author, Great on Their Behalf: Why School Boards Fail, How Yours Can Become Effective
- Conservator, DeSoto ISD (TX)
- Former Deputy Commissioner, Texas Education Agency
- Education Reform Advocate
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
QAnon is a conspiracy theory and political movement rooted in far-right politics whose beliefs are centered on the cryptic messages made by an anonymous individual called “Q” who claims to be a high-level government official with access to classified information.
While QAnon originated on the internet, it soon expanded into mainstream American politics becoming a political movement whose beliefs are even promoted by politicians, including former President Donald Trump.
For the full hour, we are joined by Will Sommer, a politics reporter for The Daily Beast, who has extensively reported on QAnon, political radicalization, and far-right conspiracy theories.
Sommer discusses his recently released book, Trust the Plan: The Rise of QAnon and the Conspiracy That Unhinged America, a comprehensive examination of the conspiracy theory’s beliefs and its rise into the mainstream.
Throughout the hour, Sommer explains the core beliefs of QAnon, how some politicians began legitimizing it, and the part it played in the attack on the U.S. Capitol Building on January 6, 2021.
Plus, Sommer shares his thoughts on how people fall into the beliefs of QAnon, the cult-like thinking demonstrated by its followers, and why individuals refuse to have their beliefs shaken even when faced with evidence to the contrary.
Guest:
Will Sommer
- Politics Reporter, the Daily Beast
- Co-Host, Fever Dreams podcast
- Author, Trust the Plan: The Rise of QAnon and the Conspiracy That Unhinged America
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the first half hour, we are joined by Isaac Mizrahi, legendary designer best known for his eponymous fashion lines, but also for being an actor, author, LGBTQ+ advocate, and TV host.
Mizrahi discusses his career beginnings from developing an interest in costume design at an early age, to body image and the fashion industry’s efforts to embrace different body types.
Plus, Mizrahi shares his thoughts on how hate persists in our society, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community, what he wants from art, and his support for Houston’s Jung Center.
An Evening with Isaac Mizrahi will take place this evening, March 28, 2023. A livestream of this event is available. For more information, click here.
Then, for the remainder of the program, we talk with Dr. Sean Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of The Jung Center, who discusses the organization’s work in raising awareness for mental health and helping people navigate life’s challenges in healthy ways.
Dr. Fitzpatrick also explains the programs and events The Jung Center offers, including more than 200 classes each year. The Center offers services to the public, frontline social services providers, teachers, medical professionals, clergy, attorneys, LGBTQ+ individuals, and many more.
For more information on the Jung Center and its classes and programs, log on to JungHouston.org.
Guests:
Isaac Mizrahi
- Fashion Designer, Actor, Singer, Author, TV Host, LGBTQ+ Advocate
Dr. Sean Fitzpatrick
- Executive Director, The Jung Center
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Americans have been online for over two decades. Now, billions across the globe can share their ideas and learn from each other from various apps and devices instantly.
And we expect our internet to reflect reality and the origins of its computations to be egalitarian with its recommendations.
However, when Dr. Safiya Noble searched the term "black girls" on Google in 2009, she was shocked to find pornography heavily linked on the first page.
Since then, Noble has spent over a decade uncovering the potential roots of racism, misogyny, and bigotry that permeate our search engines and social media.
How have the algorithms- the calculations with simple instructions that make up our internet- evolved since then?
And what happens to the people who peer into the darkest media of the internet to moderate it for us?
Guest:
Dr. Safiya Umoja Noble,
- Co-Founder of the UCLA Center for Critical Internet Inquiry (C2i2).
- Author of Algorithms of Oppression: How Search Engines Reinforce Racism
- Professor of Gender Studies and African American Studies at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- Interim Director, UCLA DataX Initiative
This episode of Town Square is guest-hosted by Brenda Valdivia, in for Ernie Manouse.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
How does art impact our society? First, we speak with Karen Martinez from Houston Arts Alliance, who discusses the importance of what art does not only for individuals, but also in our city. She also shares how Houston Arts Alliance helps artists and non-profit organizations, to bring public art projects into reality, including the Bayou City Art Festival.
The Bayou City Art Festival is one of Houston’s favorite festivals and celebrates more than 50 years of bringing unique artwork from diverse backgrounds to our community. You can see work from 300 artists, in 19 different disciplines, at this year’s spring festival at Memorial Park.
We’re joined by Dewey James, the featured artist for this year’s Bayou City Art Festival, who discusses her work as a mixed-media artist and her process using photography, graphic images, and patterns to create digital pieces. James also shares her thoughts on art’s contributions to our daily lives and the positive impact it has on us.
Kelly Batterson, Executive Director of the Art Colony Association, is also with us to share all of the exciting things you can see and do at the festival, including meet and greets with the artists, an active imagination zone for children, an exhibition of student artwork, interactive selfie stations, food trucks, craft beer garden, live entertainment, and more.
The Bayou City Art Festival opens today, March 24, 2023, gates are open until 6 p.m., at Memorial Park. It will also take place Saturday, March 25 and Sunday, March 26 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. each day. For more information about the Bayou City Art Festival, click here.
Guests:
Karen Martinez
- Director of Communications, Houston Arts Alliance
Kelly Batterson
- Executive Director, Art Colony Association
Dewey James
- Featured Artist, Bayou City Art Festival
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we are joined by Rob Melrose, Artistic Director for Alley Theatre, who discusses the nationally recognized performing arts company’s 2023-2024 season and shares details on what exciting shows audiences can look forward to in the coming months.
Alley Theatre 2023-2024 Season Line-up:
Agatha Christie’s the Murder of a Roger AckroydA world premiere of one of Agatha Christie’s best-known novels
American MariachiA play infused with vibrant and infectious live Mariachi music with family, love, & tradition as its core themes.
Little ComediesA world premiere made up of one act comedies written by Anton Chekhov.
Pictures From HomeCurrently a hit on Broadway that serves as a deeply intimate and comic portrait of a mother, father, and son.
The NerdA side-splitting comedy about a hopeless “nerd” who overstays his welcome.
The World is Not SilentA world premiere that explores the relationship between a son, don, and his estranged father.
Jane EyreAdapted from the beloved the classic novel by Charlotte Bronte.
The EmporiumWorld premiere of Thornton Wilder’s unfinished full-length play.
EllaWorld premiere that features music from The American Songbook defined by Ella Fitzgerald.
A Christmas CarolThe Alley’s hit new adaptation of Dicken’s classic.
For more information on the Alley Theatre’s 2023-2024 Season, click here.
Then, we shift topics to mental health. Psychologist Dr. Jeff Temple, Director of the Center for Violence Prevention at UTMB Health shares his thoughts on the higher rate of depression, sadness, and thoughts of suicide in teenaged girls and how the pandemic has affected mental health for all age groups.
Plus, Dr. Temple takes listeners calls to answer their questions and comments.
If you are in crisis, please call the Suicide & Crisis lifeline at 988, or log on here to chat.
Guests:
Rob Melrose
- Artistic Director, Alley Theatre
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Psychologist
- Vice Dean for Research and Scholarship at the School of Nursing, UTMB Health
- The John Sealy Distinguished Chair in Community Health, UTMB Health
- Director of the Center for Violence Prevention, UTMB Health
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In 1993, for 51 days, a siege occurred at a compound outside Waco, Texas, between federal agents and a group called the Branch Davidians led by David Koresh. This siege captured the attention of the world and resulted the deaths of four federal agents, about 80 people, including 25 children and Koresh.
After 30 years, we look back on this horrifying chapter in American history, learn about new information that has been uncovered, and the effects it’s had in the present.
First, we speak with filmmaker Tiller Russell who discusses the Netflix docuseries Waco: American Apocalypse, an immersive three episode look at the siege in Waco, which he directed and executive produced.
Russell discusses how this series examines the Waco siege, how the series differentiates from other retellings and dramatizations of this tragedy, and what he hopes the audience will take away from watching the series.
Waco: American Apocalypse is currently available for streaming exclusively on Netflix.
Then, for the rest of the hour, we speak with author and former investigative journalist, Jeff Guinn who discusses his recently released book, Waco: David Koresh, the Branch Davidians, and A Legacy of Rage.
Guinn shares insight on the events leading up to the 51-day siege, the beliefs of the Branch Davidians, and why they began following David Koresh. He also shares his thoughts on the direct links between this tragedy and the modern militia movement in America.
Guests:
Tiller Russell
Director and Executive Producer, Waco: American Apocalypse
Jeff Guinn
Author, Waco: David Koresh, the Branch Davidians, and A Legacy of Rage
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
You heard it here first! The innovative and highly celebrated Houston Grand Opera (HGO), known for advancing the art of opera, announced their upcoming 2023-2024 season LIVE on Town Square with Ernie Manouse!
We’re joined by Khori Dastoor, General Director and CEO of Houston Grand Opera, who announces the lineup of the 2023-2024 season, and shares insight on the highlights, as well as, the company's initiatives heading into this new season.
The new season will comprise 34 mainstage productions, 2 student productions, and 2 free performances of 6 productions. Dastoor says, “Next season’s theme surrounds finding truth within art. These operas are united by the complexity of their musical languages, the maturity of their themes, and the immutable truths contained within their stories”.
HGO’s 2023-2024 Season Line-up:
Intelligence
This HGO-commissioned world premiere will begin the new season. This fusion of music, words and dance was created by acclaimed composer Jake Heggie, librettist Gene Scheer, and director/choreographer Jawole Willa Joe Zollar. Inspired by a little-known true story from the Civil War, this opera tells the story of two women, Elizabeth Van Lew and Mary Jane Bowser, who create a secret pro-Union spy ring.
Falstaff
Verdi’s comic masterpiece that recounts the drunken misdeeds of Shakespeare’s beloved, down-on-his-luck knight who crosses the wrong women in a scheme to pay off his debts.
Parsifal
Wagner’s revered masterpiece opens HGO’s winter repertoire that takes audiences on a mystical journey with a group of knights that try to protect the Holy Grail and their wounded king. Tony Award-winner John Caird directs this colorful production.
Madame Butterfly
Puccini’s beloved tragedy returns featuring a diverse cast led by internationally sought-after soprano Ailyn Pérez. Jordan Braun directs the revival of Tony Award winner Michael Grandage’s acclaimed production.
Don Giovanni
Mozart’s sublime tragicomedy opens HGO’s Spring repertoire, led by superstar Italian bass-baritone Luca Pisaroni as the womanizing antihero and conducted by world-renowned Dame Jane Glover.
The Sound of Music
Closing the season is this vibrant new staging of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s timeless tale from acclaimed director Francesca Zambello. It features an outstanding cast, including Grammy Award-winning Isabel Leonard as Maria and Alexander Birch Elliott as Captain Von Trapp, and the world-class HGO Orchestra and Chorus.
For more information on the entire 2023-2024 season, visit HGO.org.
Houston Grand Opera makes opera accessible to all through diverse and innovative programs, community events, and education projects. They invite all Houstonians to experience this art form and provide discounted tickets, free productions, and subsidized student performances.
To listen to Ernie Manouse’s interview with acclaimed composer Jake Heggie on the show InnerVIEWS with Ernie Manouse, click here.
Guest:
Khori Dastoor
- General Director & CEO, Houston Grand Opera
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Fred Rogers is best known for creating and hosting the educational program Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, which ran for over 30 years and connected with millions of children due to Rogers’ ability to provide children with a friend.
Today, March 20, 2023, is Won’t You Be My Neighbor Day, a day to honor and celebrate Fred Rogers and his legacy on what would have been his 95th birthday.
First, we speak with Grammy Award-winning producer Dennis Scott who explains how he’s honoring the music of Fred Rogers through his produced album “Thank You, Mister Rogers – Music & Memories” which features Rogers’ original music performed by music icons such as Vanessa Williams, Jim Brickman, Tom Bergeron, and more.
A special virtual livestream serving as a birthday celebration for Mister Rogers begins at 5:30pm CT. To watch the livestream click here.
Then, for the rest of the hour, we speak with actor David Newell known for playing the beloved deliveryman, Mr. McFeely, on the popular series.
Newell joins us to reflect on his friendship with Fred Rogers, as well as, share details of how he started playing his iconic character while also working in the PR department of Fred Rogers Productions. He also shares how Mr. McFeely got his name and the origins of his catchphrase “Speedy Delivery.”
Guests:
Dennis Scott
- Grammy Award-winning Music Producer & Composer
David Newell
- Actor who played Mr. McFeely on Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we’re live on-location at Miller Outdoor Theatre to discuss this crown jewel of Houston located in Hermann Park, as 2023 marks its 100th Anniversary. Plus, we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with guests who keep Irish music and dance alive.
First, we speak with Ryan Kelly, lead singer of the Irish group and stage show Celtic Thunder. He discusses his musical journey as a performer, his passion for music, as well as the projects he’s currently working on.
Then, we’re joined by Chelsea Hoy and Francisco Lemus, of Trinity Irish Dance Company. Hoy explains how their innovative, dynamic company elevates traditional Irish dance and incorporates a message of female empowerment. Lemus shares his personal story of seeing Irish dance first on YouTube and then traveling 3 hours to the nearest class in Mexico. He became the first Mexican to place in the top five of the U.S. National Championships.
The Trinity Irish Dance Company will be performing at 8pm, March 17, 2023, at Miller Outdoor Theatre. This will be a free performance, no tickets required.
We are then joined by Cissy Segall Davis, Managing Director for Miller Outdoor Theatre, who explains how they offer live music, dance, theatre, and more, free for the public. She also shares details of the upcoming events for the theatre’s 100-year celebration, including eight months of exceptional programming.
Also, University of Houston history professor, Dr. Debbie Harwell, discusses the history of Miller Outdoor Theatre from what was going on in Houston when it started, how it’s famous hill was built, and how it survived through the pandemic.
For more information on the upcoming events for Miller Outdoor Theatre’s 100-year celebration, click here. For general information about Miller Outdoor Theatre, click here.
Guests:
Ryan Kelly
- Singer, Celtic Thunder & Byrne and Kelly
Chelsea Hoy
- Associate Artistic Director, Co-Choreographer, and Dancer, Trinity Irish Dance Company
Francisco Lemus
- Dancer, Trinity Irish Dance Company
Cissy Segall Davis
- Managing Director, Miller Outdoor Theatre
Dr. Debbie Harwell
- Editor, Houston History Magazine
- Instructional Assistant Professor in History and Honors, University of Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Many concerns and opinions persist following news of Houston ISD’s takeover by the Texas Education Agency (TEA), who will also replace the district’s board and superintendent. Today, we continue the discussion of this matter.
For the full hour, we are rejoined by Dr. Cathy Horn, Interim Dean for the University of Houston’s College of Education, and Dr. Bob Sanborn, President & CEO of Children at Risk.
Both guests weigh in on the motivations behind the TEA’s decision to takeover HISD and share their extended thoughts on the impact they believe this news will have on the students and families of Texas’ largest school district.
Also, Dr. Horn and Dr. Sanborn respond and take listeners calls to answer the questions, comments, and concerns over this issue.
Plus, we talk with Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, Texas Senator Paul Bettencourt of District 7, and high school English teacher, Jennifer Mathieu, for their thoughts on this issue.
Guests:
Dr. Cathy Horn
- Interim Dean of the College of Education, University of Houston
- Executive Director of the Institute for Educational Policy Research and Evaluation
Dr. Bob Sanborn
- President & CEO, Children at Risk
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Today, it was announced that the Texas Education Agency (TEA) will take over the Houston Independent School District (HISD) and replace its board and superintendent.
For the full hour, our experts discuss this news, what led to this action, and take listener calls to address their questions and concerns.
We’re joined by Houston Public Media Education and Families Reporter, Dominic Anthony Walsh, who has been following the developments of this story.
Also, joining the conversation is Interim Dean of the University of Houston’s College of Education, Dr. Cathy Horn, who shares her thoughts on the TEA’s decision, as well as, the role that teachers and leaders play in the educational opportunities and outcomes of students.
President & CEO of Children at Risk, Dr. Bob Sanborn, explains the motivations behind state’s decision and his thoughts on what they should focus on to reform the school district.
Plus, Rep. Jolanda Jones of Texas District 147 and Judson W. Robinson III, President and CEO of Houston Area Urban League, call in to share their thoughts on the TEA takeover and what it means for the future of the district.
Guests:
Dominic Anthony Walsh
- Education and Families Reporter, Houston Public Media
Dr. Cathy Horn
- Interim Dean of the College of Education, University of Houston
- Executive Director, Institute for Educational Policy Research and Evaluation
Dr. Bob Sanborn
- President & CEO, Children at Risk
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The term “cancel culture” refers to the phenomenon in which those who have said or done something not favorably viewed are ostracized or “cancelled” for their actions. The term has generated many discussions and outrage over who, or what, deserves to be cancelled.
We speak with award-winning journalist Ernest Owens and Professor of Philosophy Dr. Mary Beth Willard, who share their thoughts on cancel culture and address the cases for and against it.
Owens discusses his recently released book, The Case for Cancel Culture, in which he argues that cancel culture can be used as a tool for change and activism. He also shares his thoughts on the weaponization of cancel culture from politicians.
Dr. Willard discusses her thoughts on immoral artists and on whether it’s acceptable to still support the work of these artists. She also shares her thoughts on how cancel culture is driven by social media.
Plus, both guests weigh in on the recently announced revisions of the works of author Roald Dahl. Is this an example of cancel culture going too far?
Guests:
Ernest Owens
- Award-winning Journalist
- Author, The Case for Cancel Culture
Dr. Mary Beth Willard
- Professor of Philosophy, Weber State University
- Author, Why It’s Ok to Enjoy the Work of Immoral Artists
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other app
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we speak with author and mindfulness and breathwork specialist, Zee Clarke, who discusses her book Black People Breathe: A Mindfulness Guide to Racial Healing.
She explains how her book draws from her professional expertise and uses mindfulness and breathwork to help people of color heal from racial trauma.
Additionally, Clarke explains the positive effects that breathing has on our bodies, how to use different breath techniques, as well as the importance of mindfulness to help you feel more grounded and self-aware.
Clarke also shares her experiences with racism, including racial profiling, being harassed by the police, and in the workplace. She offers advice for listeners on what they can do when they encounter a microaggression.
Zee Clarke will be at the Houston Museum of African American Culture on Saturday, March 18, 2023, from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. CT.
To listen to Zee Clarke's interview on I SEE U with Eddie Robinson, click here.
Guest:
Zee Clarke
- Mindfulness and Breathwork Specialist
- Author, Black People Breathe: A Mindfulness Guide to Racial Healing
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other app
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Michael Schulman, Staff Writer for The New Yorker, joins us to discuss his book Oscar Wars: A History of Hollywood in Gold, Sweat, and Tears, a look at the history and behind-the-scenes drama of the Academy Awards.
Schulman also shares his thoughts on memorable and shocking moments of the Oscars, the recent “Oscar slap” that took place during last year’s ceremony, and what it was like to witness that moment as an audience member.
Then, we talk with Rebecca Sun, Senior Editor of Diversity and Inclusion at The Hollywood Reporter, about her thoughts on the representation of this year’s nominees and the Academy’s changing inclusion standards.
Also, joining the conversation is Nate Jones, Senior Writer for Vulture.com, who, along with Sun, shares his personal picks and predictions on who could take home the gold statue during the big night.
The 95th Academy Awards is on Sunday, March 12, 2023, at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT/ 7 p.m. CT.
Guests:
Michael Schulman
- Staff Writer, The New Yorker
- Author, Oscar Wars: A History of Hollywood in Gold, Sweat, and Tears
Nate Jones
- Senior Writer, Vulture.com
Rebecca Sun
- Senior Editor of Diversity and Inclusion, The Hollywood Reporter
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other app
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
You heard it here first! Today, Theater Under the Stars (TUTS) announced its full line-up of shows for the 2023-2024 season live right here on Town Square with Ernie Manouse.
We’re joined by Dan Knechtges, Artistic Director for TUTS, who shares details of the new season, its highlights, and the history of the non-profit arts organization.
The upcoming season will feature acclaimed national tours and self-produced productions. Knechtges says, the season “really does have it all – thrills, chills, humor, passion and heart!”
The TUTS 2023-2024 Season Line-up:
Jagged Little Pill
August 29 – September 10, 2023
In the National Tour of this Tony-winning musical, based on Alanis Morrissette’s world-changing music, you’ll remember what it’s like to feel truly human through this story about a perfectly imperfect American family.
Sweeney Todd
October 17 – 29, 2023
The great Stephen Sondheim’s landmark musical masterpiece about the titular Demon Barber of Fleet Street is brought to the stage for the first time by TUTS. A perfect show to see during the Halloween season.
The Ugly X-Mas Sweater Musical
November 28 – December 24, 2023
“It’s ‘The Office’ meets ‘Project Runway.’” Co-written by Dan Knechtges and Megan Larche Dominick, you’ll laugh out loud at this new musical production about a group of employees who must create the “best ugly X-mas sweater” to save their jobs, all set to all your favorite holiday songs.
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella
December 5 – 24, 2023
Inspired by the acclaimed Disney adaptation that starred Brandy and Whitney Houston, this timeless classic will be self-produced by TUTS and feature Rodgers and Hammerstein’s most beloved songs.
On Your Feet
January 30 – February 11, 2024
This National Tour tells the inspiring true story about the lives and music of the 26-time Grammy Award-winning husband and wife team, Gloria Estefan and Emilio Estefan.
The Cher Show
April 16 – 28, 2024
A Houston premiere of the National Tour that celebrates the spectacle and glamour of the icon’s life. The Cher Show features 35 smash hits, the amazing outfits of Bob Mackie, and three performers playing the one and only Cher.
Newsies
May 21 – June, 2, 2024
This self-produced production based on the Tony-award winning musical from Disney and the film of the same name, tells the story of underdogs becoming unlikely heroes set to a high explosion of song and dance.
Visit TUTS.com or call 713-558-8887 for more information on the Theatre Under the Stars 2023-2024 season.
Guest:
Dan Knechtges
- Tony Nominated Director and Choreographer
- Artistic Director, Theater Under the Stars
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other app
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
It’s been three years since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, we discuss what we have learned about the virus since then, as well as chronicle the events leading up to the distribution of the vaccine to prevent further hospitalization and death.
First, we are joined by Dr. Catherine Troisi, who discusses the current information about how the virus originated and analyze the evidence to determine if there is an answer.
Then, we welcome back Oscar-nominated filmmaker David France, who joins us to discuss his 2022 documentary How to Survive a Pandemic. He began filming in early 2020 and the film explores the hard work and collaboration that went into researching, developing, and rolling out the COVID-19 vaccine.
The film also touches on the scientific achievement the quick development and effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine represents, as well as, the political failings of governments in their response to the vaccines.
How to Survive a Pandemic is currently streaming on HBO Max.
Also, we’re joined by Dr. Pei-Yong Shi, Professor at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, who explains the work his team did that contributed to the rapid development of the first COVID-19 vaccine in humans, the research done to understand the variants, and the future strategy of the vaccine.
Guests:
Dr. Catherine Troisi
- Infectious Disease Epidemiologist, UT Health Houston School of Public Health
David France
- Oscar Nominated Filmmaker
- New York Times Bestselling Author
- Award-winning Investigative Journalist
Dr. Pei-Yong Shi
- John Sealy Distinguished Chair in Innovations in Molecular Biology, UTMB Health
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other app
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Tax Day is six weeks away. Today, we’ll share what you need to know in filing income taxes for this year.
First, we speak with Dr. Dietrich von Biedenfeld, Assistant Professor from the University of Houston-Downtown, who explains the politics that surround taxes. He weighs in on the possible tax increases we may see in President Biden’s budget proposal on Thursday, Texas Property Tax Reform Bill SB2, and American’s resistance towards paying their taxes, including the wealthy.
Then, we are joined by local tax attorney and tax guru, Max Zimmerman, also known as “Max the Tax Man”, who shares advice for maximizing your refund and explains the changes put in place for this year.
Plus, Zimmerman takes calls from listeners to answer their tax questions, comments, and concerns about filing for the current tax season.
The tax file deadline is April 18. There are a number of free tax preparation services. A couple options in our area are AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service and BakerRipley Tax Center.
Guests:
Dr. Dietrich von Biedenfeld
- Assistant Professor of Law and Supply Chain Management, Marilyn Davies College of Business, University of Houston Downtown
Max Zimmerman
- Tax Attorney, Brenner Global Associates
- Enrolled Agent, Certified by the IRS
- Volunteer, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Service
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other app
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
64% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck, according to a December 2022 LendingClub report. This makes the majority of people in this country just one paycheck away from experiencing homelessness. Houston has made great strides in its effort to combat homelessness through its teamwork approach with city leaders, direct service non-profit organizations, and landlords. Their “housing first” approach moves those experiencing homelessness into apartments instead of shelters. We’ll talk with Houston leaders in this fight to discuss the successes and current challenges today.
First, a new world-premiere opera titled Another City from Houston Grand Opera is shining a light on the issue of homelessness. Librettist, Stephanie Fleishmann, and composer, Jeremy Howard Beck, share details of the production, which intersects stories of homeless Houstonians and those working to help them. They wanted to create a space for people to see and hear differently.
The world-premiere of Another City will be at Ecclesia Houston March 9-10, 2023, at 7:30 p.m., and March 11, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. For more information, visit HGO.org.
Then, we speak with local leaders who are leading the efforts to combat the issue of homelessness in the city of Houston and working towards overcoming the issues they’re still facing.
Joining the conversation is Sara Martinez of Coalition for the Homeless Houston and Harris County, she explains what Houston is doing right compared to other cities and the challenges posed by rising rent and access to affordable housing. Martinez also explains how people can help by contributing their time, talking to elected officials, volunteering, and fully understand the real cause of homelessness.
Also, we are joined by Dr. David Buck, the founder of Healthcare for the Homeless Houston, who explains his work in improving health and health care to underrepresented communities. He also shares strategies to be adopted by the health care system to better treat the homeless, including, challenging funders at all levels, creating reform from within, and providing care based on values instead of problems.
Plus, we hear from Joe Benson who shares his story from experiencing homelessness to becoming a Clinical Community Health Worker for Healthcare for the Homeless.
Guests:
Stephanie Fleischmann
- Librettist, Another City
Jeremy Howard Beck
- Composer, Another City
Sara Martinez
- Vice President of Communications and Development, Coalition for the Homeless Houston and Harris County
Dr. David Buck
- Associate Dean & Clinical Professor, Fertitta Family College of Medicine at University of Houston
- Founder, Healthcare for the Homeless Houston
Joe Benson
- Experienced Homelessness
- Clinical Community Health Worker, Healthcare for the Homeless
- Serves on Governance Board, Healthcare for the Homeless Council
- Active Member, National Healthcare for the Homeless National Consumer Advisory Board
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other app
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
It’s Science Friday! We’re joined by Neil deGrasse Tyson, renowned astrophysicist, and Director of the Hayden Planetarium. He’s known for sharing his love of science and bringing it into the mainstream.
Tyson discusses where we should be by now in terms of space exploration and the geopolitical, cultural, and economic factors hindering us from moving forward.
Neil deGrasse Tyson will be appearing at Jones Hall on Monday, March 6, 2023, at 7:30pm. The program is sponsored by Performing Arts Houston.
Then, we shift topics to reflect on the role that pop culture, particularly, the science fiction genre, has played on influencing technology we use in our daily lives, such as the cell phone, 3D printing, robot vacuums and self-driving cars.
We’re joined by Dr. Ed Finn, Founding Director of the Center for Science and the Imagination at Arizona State University, to explain the work they do in providing a space for creative thinkers, scientists, and engineers to inspire collective imagination for better futures.
Also, joining this conversation is Dr. Chris Bronk, Associate Professor of Information Science and Technology at the University of Houston, who discusses how ideas presented in science fiction in the past, exist now in the present.
Guests:
Neil deGrasse Tyson
- Astrophysicist
- Director, Hayden Planetarium in New York City
Dr. Ed Finn
- Founding Director, Center for Science and the Imagination, Arizona State University
Dr. Chris Bronk
- Associate Professor of Computer and Information Systems, University of Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other app
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
From funnel cake to food-on-a-stick, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has tasty treats to indulge in between all the events. Today, the best of the best were crowned at the annual Gold Buckle Foodie Awards. Brooks Bradford, HLSR Chairman of the Commercial Exhibits Committee, joins us to discuss the food competition and the winners in each of the six categories.
Then, we shift topics to discuss Holi, the Hindu festival of colors, which represents the divine triumph of good over evil and celebrates the welcoming of spring.
Dr. Sravana Borkataky-Varma, Instructional Assistant Professor of Religious Studies at the University of Houston, explains the history and mythology behind the traditions of Holi and how its celebrated.
Dr. Borkataky-Varma also discusses how multiculturism has changed and influenced Holi, and well as her thoughts on the difference between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation.
Houston is home to several Holi Festivals, including the Bellaire’s Holi Festival, which will take place on March 11, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Bellaire-Zindler Park. The festival will feature entertainment, music, and of course, colors.
Guests:
Brooks Bradford
- Chairman of the Commercial Exhibits Committee, Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
Dr. Sravana Borkataky-Varma
- Instructional Assistant Professor of Religious Studies, University of Houston
- Center for the Study of World Religions Fellow at Harvard Divinity School, Harvard University
Himanshu Upadhyaya
- Bellaire Holi Festival
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other app
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Health care is an important issue facing Americans, especially as costs for coverage, care, and prescription drugs continue to skyrocket. How can we make it more affordable, and provide the best quality of care for the most number of people?
First, we are joined by Dr. Mark E. Miller, Executive Vice President of Heath Care for Arnold Ventures. He discusses his work in lowering the cost and increasing the value of health care, as well as share his thoughts on why healthcare costs are so high.
Then, Dr. Vivian Ho, a health economist at Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy and Baylor College of Medicine, explains how America’s health care compares with other developed countries, the effect the COVID-19 pandemic had on our health care system, and the Affordable Care Act.
Also, joining the conversation is physician, epidemiologist, and educator Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, who shares his thoughts on the issues with America’s health care system and explains what solutions he would like to see take place to remedy these issues.
Guests:
Dr. Mark E. Miller
- Executive Vice President of Health Care, Arnold Ventures
Dr. Vivian Ho
- James A. Baker III Institute Chair in Health Economics, Rice University
- Professor, Baylor College of Medicine
Dr. Abdul El-Sayed
- Epidemiologist
- Author, Medicare for All: A Citizen’s Guide
- Podcast Host, America Dissected
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other app
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we talk with Broadway actor Nick Rashad Burroughs, known for starring in Broadway productions such as Kinky Boots, Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, and the national tour for Something Rotten, becoming the first Black man to play the role of “Shakespeare.”
Burroughs discusses his current role as Toulouse-Lautrec in the national tour of Moulin Rouge! The Musical, playing at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts until March 12, 2023. For more information, visit TheHobbyCenter.org.
Then, we discuss the economics of Broadway with Tony Award-winning Broadway producer Ken Davenport. He explains the cost of putting a show on Broadway, why producers turn to adapted material, Broadway’s significance to New York and America, and the industry’s recovery after the Pandemic. Plus, he shares a little about his book Broadway Investing 101: How to Make Theater and Yes, Even Make Money.
Also, joining the conversation is Caseen Gaines, author of When Broadway Was Black. The book tells the story of the 1921 musical Shuffle Along, which was an all-Black musical that became a Broadway hit and changed the world. He also shares his thoughts on diversity in Broadway.
Guests:
Nick Rashad Burroughs
- Plays Toulouse-Lautrec in Moulin Rouge! The Musical
Ken Davenport
- Tony Award-winning Broadway producer
- Author, Broadway Investing 101: How to Make Theater and Yes, Even Make Money
Caseen Gaines
- Writer, Director, Educator, & Popular Culture Historian
- Author, When Broadway Was Black: The Triumphant Story of the All-Black Musical That Changed the World
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other app
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we are joined by Nelva Williamson, a social studies teacher from Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy in Houston. She joins us to give us a lesson in African American history, particularly the events that many may not be familiar with.
She begins the history lesson by discussing how many Africans came to the U.S. with Spanish explorers as early as the 15th century and the story of Fort Mose, which was the site of the first free black community.
Williamson takes us through what African Americans experienced following the end of the Civil War, including moving west to Kansas in the hopes of escaping oppression and having a larger political presence.
We also learned about important Black inventors, like Sarah Boone and Alexander Miles, who were instrumental in moving the country forward and Black historical figures with incredible stories including, Robert Smalls, who saved 17 black passengers from slavery to freedom.
Plus, Williamson explains how the NAACP was founded by an interracial group of activists in 1909 to combat the racial injustices that were prevalent during that time.
Guest:
Nelva Williamson
- Social Studies Teacher, Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy
- Teaches AP World History, AP U.S. History, AP African American Studies
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other app
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Today, we come to you on-location from the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s World Championship Bar-B-Que Contest, which features more than 250 cook teams from all over the U.S., and the world, competing for the best overall barbeque.
First, we talk with committeeman and past chairman, David Stone, who explains how the contest works, what judges look for, and what guests can experience at the event including great barbeque and live music. For more details on the events and the schedule, click here.
Texas recording artist, Junior Gordon, grew up in country music. His parents both worked at Gilley’s in Pasadena and he had the opportunity to see and be inspired by greats like George Strait, Conway Twitty, George Jones, Charlie Pride and more. He shares his love for country music and how he’s giving back to a community he’s passionate about.
Junior Gordon takes the Garden Stage at the World Championship Bar-B-Que Contest on Saturday, February 25, 2023, from 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
The meat is the star of the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Cookoff. We talk with Randy Pauly, Pitmaster for Holy Cow Cookers, Director of Barbeque for Buc-ee’s, and winner over eight grand champion titles both nationally and internationally.
He discusses his career in the meat business as well as offers advice on what makes great barbeque, from determining which wood to use, how long to smoke the meat, and whether to use a dry rub or sauce.
Plus, two of Pauly’s kids, Cooper and Finley, participated in the 2022 Junior Cook-off. They join us to share their experience following in their father’s footsteps.
Guests:
David Stone
- Past Chairman, World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest Committee, Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
Junior Gordon
- Texas Recording Artist
Randy Pauly
- Director and Pitmaster, Holy Cow Cookers
- Director of Barbeque, Buc-ee’s
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other app
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we’re joined by Tony-Nominated actor, Jeremy Jordan, who discusses discovering his love for performing, and the excitement of his Broadway debut in Rock of Ages. We also talk with him about creating the role of Jack Kelly in Disney’s Newsies on Broadway and his other starring roles in Bonnie & Clyde, West Side Story, Waitress, and more.
Jeremy Jordan will be performing many of Broadway’s greatest hits with the Houston Symphony in The Best Of Broadway With Jeremy Jordan, this weekend at Jones Hall. Shows are Friday and Saturday at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit HoustonSymphony.org.
Then, we are joined by New York Times Bestselling Author, Cheryl Strayed, best known for her books, Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail, which was adapted into the 2014 film of the same name starring Reese Witherspoon, and Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice from Dear Sugar.
Strayed discusses details from her writing career, including, her 1,100-mile hike on the Pacific Crest Trail that inspired Wild, how her advice column, Dear Sugar, inspired the collection of essays found in Tiny Beautiful Things, and the process of adapting her books for film and television.
The Tiny Beautiful Things series on Hulu will be released on Friday, April 7, 2023.
You can also listen to Cheryl Strayed on her podcasts Sugar Calling and Dear Sugars, available on all major podcast platforms.
Guests:
Jeremy Jordan
- Tony & Grammy-Nominated Actor
Cheryl Strayed
- New York Times Bestselling Author, “Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail” and “Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice from Dear Sugar”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other app
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Kenn McLaughlin, Artistic Director for Stages, shares the upcoming 2023-2024 season of productions for the theater company, including, two world premieres, a Stages classic, and many theatrical surprises.
For more information on the list of 2023-2024 productions, click here. Stages season subscribers receive priority seating and other benefits. For more information, visit StagesHouston.com, call 713-527-0123, or visit the Box Office in-person at 800 Rosine St, Houston, TX.
Then, we are joined by actor and Houston native Brett Cullen, who’s been featured in numerous TV shows and films including, Falcon Crest, Lost, Narcos, The Dark Knight Rises, Joker, and many more.
He joins us to discuss his acting career and the latest series he’s featured in, HBO’s Winning Team: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, which chronicles the professional and personal lives of the 1980’s Los Angeles Lakers.
Cullen also discusses his work as a guest artist teaching acting students at the University of Houston, his alma mater. He offers real-world advice to these students, including information about how the industry has changed and how to self-tape an audition in order to get acting jobs.
Guests:
Kenn McLaughlin
- Artistic Director, Stages
Brett Cullen
- Actor
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other app
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Today, is Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday. It’s the culmination of the Carnival, and reflects the last night of eating rich, fatty foods before the Lenten season.
The Mardi Gras celebration in Galveston has grown to be the third largest in the United States. Mary Beth Bassett from Visit Galveston explains the evolution of how Mardi Gras started on the island in 1867 with the first masked ball at Turner Hall to today where more than 300,000 people attend and enjoy 23 parades and more than 30 concerts.
History professor, Dr. Charles Heath, joins the conversation to discuss the origins of Mardi Gras and how it became adopted by countries all over the world, including the U.S. He also explains the meaning behind Carnival.
Also, we’re joined by Alex Brennan-Martin, from Brennan’s of Houston, who gives us the rich history and traditions behind many favorite foods associated with this celebration, including, gumbo, pralines, shrimp and grits, and of course, king cake.
Guests:
Mary Beth Bassett
- Senior Public Relations Manager, Visit Galveston
Dr. Charles Heath
- Associate Professor of History, Sam Houston State University
Alex Brennan-Martin
- Owner, Brennan’s of Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
President’s Day is a federal holiday, originally established to recognize the birthdays of Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Now, the holiday is viewed as a day to celebrate all U.S. Presidents.
For the full hour, we reflect on the presidencies of many of our nation’s leaders. Joining the conversation is presidential historian, Mike Purdy, who shares his insight on the history of many famous Presidents and interesting fun facts about their lives.
We also speak with presidential historian and professor of history, Dr. Timothy Naftali, who shares his thoughts on the legacies of U.S. presidents. Dr. Naftali also provides updates on the condition of former President Jimmy Carter, who entered hospice care at his home over the weekend.
Both guests also weigh in on how the position of the U.S. Presidency has changed over the years, the relationship between former Presidents, and what the future holds for future generations of leaders.
Plus, listeners call in to ask their questions about presidential history and share their comments about famous U.S. Presidents.
Guests:
Mike Purdy
- Presidential Historian
- Author, Presidential Friendships: How They Changed History
Dr. Timothy Naftali
- Presidential Historian & Author
- Clinical Associate Professor of History and Public Service, New York University
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The Broadway at the Hobby Center 2023-2024 season was announced today. We talk with Mark Folkes, President and CEO of The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, who shares what’s coming in the exciting season ahead, which includes MJ the Musical, Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, Beetlejuice, Girl from the North Country, Hairspray, Funny Girl, Les Misérables, and Disney’s The Lion King.
For more information on the new season, visit BroadwayAtTheHobbyCenter.com
Then, with the popularity of the heavily discussed AI chatbot ChatGPT, we talk about the recent discourse over Artificial Intelligence and the potential benefits and concerns many have due to its ever-growing presence in our daily lives.
Joining the conversation is Dr. Jeff Hancock, Professor of Communication from Stanford University, who through his research has examined the effect that AI has on interpersonal relationships. He discusses what we're seeing with ChatGPT and the potential risks of AI as it becomes more common.
We’re also joined by Dr. Ryan Kennedy, Professor of Political Science from the University of Houston, who also shares his thoughts on ChatGPT, how it can be implemented in our daily lives, and what implications we can expect from this.
Plus, an artist with an affinity for using AI to create artwork shares his thoughts on using this technology as a tool in his work.
Guests:
Mark Folkes
- President & CEO, The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts
Dr. Jeff Hancock
- Professor of Communication, Stanford University
- Founding Director, Stanford Social Media Lab
Dr. Ryan Kennedy
- Professor of Political Science, University of Houston
- Director, Machine-Assisted Human Decision-Making (MAHD) Lab
- Principal Investigator, Community Responsive Algorithms for Social Accountability (CRASA Project)
Keith Reynolds
- Artist, Musician, Playwright, and Computer Programmer
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we discuss ATSC 3.0, also known as NextGen TV, with freelance tech journalist Jared Newman who explains what this over-the-air broadcasting alternative is and whether we can expect it to become the norm in television’s near future.
Jared Newman is a writer for the Cord Cutter Weekly newsletter. For more information, or to sign up for this newsletter, click here.
Then, with the popularity of streaming and the myriad of services available, we discuss the streaming wars, where entertainment giants are investing billions of dollars into their own streaming services in a race to become the best.
Joining the conversation, is Dade Hayes, co-author of the book Binge Times: Inside Hollywood's Furious Billion-Dollar Battle to Take Down Netflix, described as the first comprehensive account of the entertainment industry’s pivot to streaming.
He shares his thoughts on what we’re witnessing in the entertainment industry because of the streaming wars, how consumers can navigate this abundance of choices, what strategies we can expect from these platforms to keep viewers watching going forward.
Plus, Hayes also shares his thoughts on Netflix’s recent crackdown on password sharing, increasing subscription prices, and whether or not fellow streaming services will follow suit.
Guests:
Jared Newman
- Freelance Tech Journalist
- Writer, Cord Cutter Weekly Newsletter
- Columnist, Tech Hive
Dade Hayes
- Business Editor, Deadline Hollywood
- Co-Author, Binge Times: Inside Hollywood's Furious Billion-Dollar Battle to Take Down Netflix
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, Representative Sylvia R. Garcia joins us to discuss her career in service representing Texas’s 29th Congressional District.
The Congresswoman shares her reactions to President Biden’s recent 2023 State of the Union Address and the decorum that politicians should adhere to. Plus, she discusses Rep. George Santos (R-NY) and what his controversies say about our elected officials.
Rep. Garcia also talks about immigration reform following her recent trip to the border in El Paso, including being in favor of fair immigration laws and refuting anti-immigration talking points.
She also shares her thoughts on the important role education plays in increasing employment, as well as the work her office is doing to best serve the 29th Congressional District.
Plus, Congresswoman Garcia answers listeners’ questions and addresses their comments.
Guest:
Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia
- Represents the 29th District of Texas
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we talk with esteemed psychologists and real-life couple, Drs. John and Julie Gottman, founders of the Gottman Institute, an institution devoted to using research and practice to help strengthen marriages, families, and relationships.
Over the course of fifty years and thirty-five years of their marriage, the Gottmans have studied more than 40,000 couples and written several books, many of which are dedicated to offering advice for improving and building strong relationships and marriages.
The Gottmans discuss their latest book titled, The Love Prescription, Seven Days to More Intimacy, Connection, and Joy. It’s a short practical guide to transform your relationship with easy steps that can be done any time. The plan introduces a new relationship-building habit each day of the week.
Drs. John and Julie Gottman also share advice for couples who are interested in enhancing the romance in their relationship, including the proper way to approach a sensitive conversation and avoiding negative behaviors that lead to divorce.
Plus, the Gottmans offer their insight to answer listeners’ relationship questions.
The Love Prescription, Seven Days to More Intimacy, Connection, and Joy is available wherever books are sold.
How well do you know your partner? Take the Gottman's free relationship quiz here to find out. For more on Gottman Connect, click here.
Guests:
Dr. John Gottman
- Clinical Psychologist
- Professor Emeritus in Psychology, University of Washington
- Co-Founder, The Gottman Institute and Affective Software
- New York Times Bestselling Author, The Love Prescription: 7 Days to More Intimacy, Connection & Joy
Dr. Julie Schwartz Gottman
- Clinical Psychologist
- Co-Founder & President, The Gottman Institute
- Co-Founder, Affective Software
- New York Times Bestselling Author, The Love Prescription: 7 Days to More Intimacy, Connection & Joy
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we talk with Phil Rosenthal, writer, creator, and executive producer of the hit sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond and the host of the popular Netflix travel series Somebody Feed Phil.
He shares his experiences trying new foods and learning about other cultures from all over the world through his Netflix series Somebody Feed Phil. Rosenthal is a passionate advocate for travel and encourages everyone to visit unfamiliar places and open yourself to trying new things and create new experiences.
The companion book to the series, Somebody Feed Phil the Book: Untold Stories, Behind-the-Scenes Photos and Favorite Recipes: A Cookbook is available now wherever books are sold. It documents his travels and shares the best recipes he’s found.
Rosenthal also shares how he sought to create a positive work environment while developing Everybody Loves Raymond and how the people in his life and his personal experiences helped play a role in the show’s humor and relatable nature.
Plus, he discusses his 2010 documentary Exporting Raymond, which details his journey to Russia in an attempt to create a Russian version of Everybody Loves Raymond and the difficulties he encountered.
Phil Rosenthal will be in Houston on his book tour Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at the House of Blues Houston at 7:30pm CT. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.
Also, Rosenthal co-hosts the Naked Lunch podcast, which features engaging lunch conversations with smart people who share their stories. It’s available on all major podcast platforms.
Guest:
Phil Rosenthal
- Writer, Creator, Executive Producer, Everybody Loves Raymond
- Host, Somebody Feed Phil
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Super Bowl LVII is approaching. While many will be tuning in for the game, there are many other areas of the major sporting event that draws viewers in. For the full hour, longtime Houston TV personality, Courtney Zavala, joins us as we explore viewers’ other favorite parts of the big game.
First, we discuss the Super Bowl Halftime Show, a monumental spectacle that’s popularity even rivals the big game itself. We’re joined by Joe Reid, senior writer for Primetimer, who discusses the memorable performances of the past, what we can expect from this year’s performer, Rihanna, and the motivations for the selection of the performer.
Another part of the big game that has many viewers tuning in is the commercials. Assistant marketing professor, Dr. Richard Conde, explains the methods that advertisers use in the creation of ads that leave a lasting legacy.
Closing out the program is the party! We discuss tips and advice for planning a Super Bowl get together with Krystal Williams, owner and creative director of Poppin Parties. She shares ways to score a touchdown with your friends and loved ones when they gather to watch the big game.
Guests:
Courtney Zavala
- TV Personality
Joe Reid
- Senior Writer at Primetimer
Dr. Richard Conde
- Assistant Marketing Professor, University of Houston-Downtown
Krystal Williams
- Owner and Creative Director, Poppin Parties
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we talk with singer, composer, and actor, Lyle Lovett, who joins us to discuss his celebrated career in music, including how he got his big break in the 80s and going on to win four Grammy Awards.
We also hear details of how he got into acting despite being known for his music career, particularly through his collaborations with acclaimed American filmmaker Robert Altman.
Lovett also discusses his creative process in creating his new album “12th of June,” named after the birth date of his two children. The album fuses and incorporates elements of jazz, country, western swing, folk, gospel, and blues.
He also shares details of his current 2023 tour where he will be performing with his acoustic group. They will be live at The Grand 1894 Opera House on February 15-16, 2023. For tickets and more information, click here.
To watch Ernie Manouse’s interview with Lyle Lovett on the show InnerVIEWS, click here.
Guest:
Lyle Lovett
- Four-time Grammy Award-winning Singer, Composer, and Actor
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we talk with world-touring mentalist, Alex McAleer, who explains his ability to tap into the minds of audience members and read their thoughts. McAleer is a member of the illusionist ensemble, Champions of Magic, described as “the Avengers of Magic” by the press.
Champions of Magic, the original, interactive show, full of spectacle and pyrotechnics, is performing at The Hobby Center for Performing Arts until February 17, 2023. For more information, click here.
Then, we shift topics to discuss the 2023 State of the Union Address. President Biden addressed issues on the minds of many Americans such as the economy, gun violence, immigration, abortion rights, and more. The speech garnered various reactions from the audience, including a bit of heckling from several members of the Republican Party.
Joining the conversation is Julie Mason, host of Julie Mason Mornings, to discuss the key moments that took place during the evening and share her thoughts on what we can expect going forward on the nation’s top issues.
Julie Mason Mornings can be heard weekdays from 6:00 -9:00 a.m. on Sirius XM’s POTUS Channel 124.
Guests:
Alex McAleer
- Mind Reader
- Appearing in the Champions of Magic Tour
Julie Mason
- Host of Julie Mason Mornings, Sirius X-M’s POTUS Channel 124
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we talk with Kadence Smith, a 5th Grade student who is the winner of Foley and Lardner’s 27th Annual MLK Jr. Oratory Competition in Houston. She shares with us the motivation for her speech and her hopes for the future.
Then, for the remainder of the show, we discuss how black history is currently being taught in schools and who decides how students learn about American history.
Joining the conversation is political science professor and Director of the Ruth J. Simmons Center for Race and Justice at Prairie View A&M University, Dr. Melanye Price, who shares her thoughts on the importance of teaching black history and attempts to revise or sanitize parts of America’s past that may be unflattering.
We are also joined by the Director of the Center for Critical Race Studies at the University of Houston-Downtown, Dr. Vida Robertson, who discusses Critical Race Theory and explains common misconceptions that are often made about it.
Both guests also weigh in and share their thoughts on the College Board’s revision of the AP African American Studies course following criticism from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
Guests:
Kadence Smith
- 5th Grade Student
- Winner of Foley and Lardner’s 27th Annual MLK Jr. Oratory Competition in Houston
Dr. Melanye Price
- Professor of Political Science, Prairie View A&M University
- Director of the Ruth J. Simmons Center for Race and Justice
Dr. Vida Robertson
- Associate Professor of English and Humanities, University of Houston-Downtown
- Director, Center for Critical Race Studies
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
New York Magazine’s Vulture.com named 2022 the Year of the Nepo Baby, after much discourse over the prevalence of “nepo babies” in pop culture.
What is a “nepo baby”? The term refers to the children of the already famous who have likely benefited from their parent’s fame to achieve success in their desired fields.
Senior Writer for Vulture.com, Nate Jones, who wrote the article that helped spark much of the debate in the nepo babies discourse, joins us to share his thoughts on nepotism in Hollywood.
Then, Dr. Charisse L’Pree Corsbie-Massay speaks with us on the prevalence of nepotism in our culture and weighs in on the arguments and criticisms made in the discourse over the so-called, “nepo babies”.
Dr. Christy Nittrouer discusses the effects that nepotism has on the workplace and how individuals can acknowledge and utilize their privilege to help disenfranchised groups.
Plus, reporter and sports anchor, Jake Reiner, son of director Rob Reiner, shares his views on the nepotism debate from the perspective of someone with famous relatives.
Guests:
Nate Jones
- Senior Writer, Vulture.com
Dr. Charisse L’Pree Corsbie-Massay
- Associate Professor of Communication, S.I. Newhouse School at Syracuse University
- Author, Diversity and Satire: Laughing at Processes of Marginalization
Dr. Christy Nittrouer
- Assistant Professor in Management, Rawls College of Business at Texas Tech University
Jake Reiner
- Reporter & Sports Anchor, KCAL News
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Teachers and educators are one of the most important influences on our children’s lives and go above and beyond to enrich the lives of our students. Today, we honor them and share the unique ways they bring learning to life in the classroom.
Houston Public Media’s Dave DeJohn is out in the Houston area each day meeting great educators. He joins us to discuss his role as Director of Education and PBS’s commitment to learning through its various free educational resources for parents and teachers.
To learn more about PBS Learning Media, click here.
We also talk with several educators from our community about the various methods they use to engage students and keep them excited about learning.
We talk with Humble ISD first grade teacher, Angelia Courtney, who shares how she creates real-life experiences for her students through virtual learning. Students get virtual field trips, meet-ups at parks and libraries, and guest speakers like a NASA firefighter or children’s book author.
Arjaunese Williams, a first grade teacher at Stafford Elementary School, was named the 2023 Elementary Teacher of the Year by the Texas Council of Teachers of English Arts. She makes learning fun for her students through hands-on and interactive activities.
2023 Cypress Ridge High School Campus Teacher of the Year, Maureen Thomas, explains how her students create materials that fly on the International Space Station through the NASA Hunch program. They’ve sewn cargo bags, sleeping bag liners and they are currently constructing hygiene kits for astronauts.
Rita Graves, 2023 HISD Secondary Principal of the Year, from Lamar High School discusses the “flipped” classroom model, which allows students to complete their assignments at home and then have class time for problem-solving and access to the teacher. She also shares her thoughts on the current challenges and successes in education.
Plus, listeners call in to give special shout-outs to teachers and educators that have had a positive impact on their lives.
Guests:
Dave DeJohn
- Director of Education, Houston Public Media
Angelia Courtney
- First Grade Teacher, Humble ISD
Arjaunese Williams
- First Grade Teacher, Stafford Elementary School, Stafford Municipal School District
Maureen Thomas
- Fashion Design Teacher, Cypress Ridge High School, Cypress Fairbanks ISD
Rita Graves
- Principal, Lamar High School, Houston ISD
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we talk with Jennifer Lécuyer, artistic director for KOOZA, a production by Cirque du Soleil, who explains the history of the entertainment company, the process of crafting their performances, and how they’ve reimagined the traditional circus.
KOOZA is currently in Houston until March 5, 2023, at Sam Houston Race Park. For more information, click here.
Then, we discuss the history of the traditional American circus, with Linda Simon, author of The Greatest Shows on Earth: A History of the Circus and Bruce Hawley, President of the Circus Historical Society. They explain the beginnings of the circus, how it captivated audiences everywhere through spectacle, as well as share their thoughts on criticisms of the circus and its future.
Plus, Les Standiford, author of Battle for the Big Top, joins the conversation to discuss the rivalry between three major circus figures, P.T. Barnum, James Bailey, and John Ringling and how it led to the creation of the circus.
Guests:
Jennifer Lécuyer
- Artistic Director of KOOZA, a touring circus production by Cirque du Soleil
Linda Simon
- Author, The Greatest Shows on Earth: A History of the Circus
Bruce Hawley
- President, Circus Historical Society
Les Standiford
- Author, Battle for the Big Top: P.T. Barnum, James Bailey, John Ringling, and the Death-Defying Saga of the American Circus
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The City of Houston’s law requiring pet owners to microchip their dogs and cats, goes into effect today, February 1, 2023. Cory Stottlemyer joins us from BARC Animal Shelter and Adoption Center to explain the benefits of microchipping your pets and the 3-step process to register your pets with the city of Houston.
BARC will host a free microchip event on Monday, February 6 and Tuesday, February 7 from 8-10 a.m. at 3300 Carr St. For more information, visit their website here.
Then, February begins American Heart Month. Since heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., we discuss general heart health with Houston Methodist cardiologist Dr. Kevin Lisman. The good news is 80 percent of cardiac and stroke events can be prevented.
Dr. Lisman shares advice for preventing heart disease from the lifestyle choices to the warning signs and risk factors to be aware of. Plus, the doctor also answers listeners questions, comments, and concerns on preventing heart attacks and when they should seek a cardiologist’s opinion.
Guests:
Cory Stottlemyer
- Director of Communications, BARC Animal Shelter & Adoption Center
Dr. Kevin Lisman
- Cardiologist, Houston Methodist
- Consults for the Houston Texans, Astros, and other major sports teams.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we speak with singer and actress, Christina Wells, who shares details of her lifelong dream of pursuing a singing career, to work as a registered nurse, and then winning over the hearts of the nation during her time on America’s Got Talent.
She discusses how her success on the popular TV show has led her to inspire people everywhere to follow their dreams and never give up on themselves.
Wells’ success in Houston-based musical theater productions such as, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Hairspray, and Seussical, has led her to a starring role in her first national tour.
Christina Wells is currently starring as “Matron Mama Morton” in the Theater Under the Stars production of Chicago, which runs January 31 until February 12, 2023, at Houston’s The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. For more information, visit TUTS.com.
Guest:
Christina Wells
- America’s Got Talent Semi-Finalist, Season 13
- Starring as Matron Mama Morton in Chicago at Theatre Under the Stars
Click below to listen to Christina Wells' previous appearance on Town Square with Ernie Manouse from December 2, 2021.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
On January 7, 2023, 29-year-old Tyre Nichols was stopped by Memphis Police Officers due to a claim of reckless driving. He was later taken to the hospital in critical condition and pronounced dead on January 10, 2023.
Footage of the traffic stop was released allowing the public to witness the horrific events that transpired that evening. The footage shows Nichols being beaten, tased, and pepper-sprayed by the officers without an attempt to render aid.
We discuss reactions from across the nation, including protests taking place, why we’re experiencing an increase in police violence, and what change needs to happen to prevent this in the future.
With us to answer legal questions regarding aspects of the investigation and the charges against the officers, is law professor Njeri Mathis Rutledge.
We talk with psychologist Dr. Apryl Alexander, who shares her thoughts on how we can process seeing the horrific content of the footage and having difficult conversations that need to happen to enact change.
Plus, Sergeant Brandon Love, President of Afro-American Police Officers League, shares his thoughts on the incident from a law enforcement perspective.
Guests:
Njeri Mathis Rutledge
- Professor of Law, South Texas College of Law Houston
Apryl A. Alexander, Psy.D.
- Metrolina Distinguished Scholar of Health & Public Policy
- Associate Professor, Department of Public Health Sciences, UNC Charlotte
Sergeant Brandon Love
- President, Afro-American Police Officers League
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
January 27 is International Holocaust Remembrance Day. It’s the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, and is a day dedicated to honoring the six million Jews who were murdered during the Holocaust.
We speak with the Director of Education for the Holocaust Museum Houston, who talks about the museum’s dedication to educating people about the Holocaust and what the dangers of hatred and prejudice can lead to.
We also speak with Dr. Anna Steinberger who shares her story of survival through the Holocaust, and how she came to America following the end of the war. She also shares advice on what we can learn from tolerance and understanding.
Plus, the Regional Director for the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) discusses the rise of antisemitism and authoritarianism in the U.S. and throughout the world, and the organization’s mission to fight against extremism to protect our democracy.
Holocaust Museum Houston has free resources for teachers and students. For more information on their online resources for educators, click here, and for students, click here.
Guests:
Wendy Warren
- Director of Education, Holocaust Museum Houston
Dr. Anna Steinberger
- Holocaust Survivor
Mark Toubin
- Regional Director, Anti-Defamation League
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
We start the hour with Lunar New Year, the fifteen-day celebration that began on January 22, 2023. Mei Li, Director of Culture and Community Development at the Chinese Community Center, discusses the history, traditions, and celebration practices for Lunar New Year within the East and Southeast Asian communities. To learn more about Chinese Community Center, visit their website here.
For the rest of the hour, we talk with political science professor and co-host of Houston Public Media’s Party Politics, Brandon Rottinghaus, Ph.D., about the handling and classification of classified government documents.
Professor Rottinghaus explains how these documents are managed, who has access, and how they may have ended up in the homes of former President Donald Trump, President Joe Biden, and former Vice-President Mike Pence.
Professor Rottinghaus also shares his thoughts on whether the pattern of classified documents being found in the homes of several political leaders is evidence of a systemic issue in the handling of these documents.
Party Politics airs Friday nights at 7:30 p.m. CT on News 88.7 and Fridays at 8:00 p.m. on TV 8.
Guests:
Mei Li
- Director of Culture & Community Development, Chinese Community Center
Brandon Rottinghaus, Ph.D.
- Professor of Political Science, University of Houston
- Co-host, Party Politics
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we talk with Julia Cameron, bestselling author, playwright, poet, filmmaker, and more, as she shares details of her amazing writing career including her start as a journalist, work in film, and writing more than 40 books.
She discusses her most famous book, The Artist’s Way, which helped bring creativity into the mainstream. Her techniques offered ways for writers and artists to dedicate themselves to “the Morning Pages” in order to develop new ideas, “the Artist Date” to nurture the inner artist, and find friends and family members who offer support.
Cameron also discusses her new book, “Write for Life: Creative Tools for Every Writer,” which serves as a “love letter to writing and writers,” by helping guide readers through overcoming many common creative issues such as procrastination, deadlines, and doubt.
Brazos Bookstore is hosting a virtual event with Julia Cameron on Thursday, January 26, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. To register, or for more information, visit BrazosBookstore.com.
Guest:
Julia Cameron
- Bestselling Author, “The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity” and “Write for Life: Creative Tools for Every Writer”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
39 mass shootings have occurred in the U.S., in just the first 24 days of 2023. Over the last few days, shootings in Half Moon Bay, Oakland, and Monterey Park, California, killed a total of 19 people.
What is causing these mass shootings in America and what can we do to help prevent the violence?
We speak with Emmy award-winning journalist and CNN Senior Crime and Justice Correspondent, Shimon Prokupecz, who gives us an update on the most recent shootings in California, and on the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde that shocked the state of Texas last year.
Psychologist Dr. Jeff Temple, Director of the Center for Violence Prevention at UTMB Health, also joins us to share his thoughts on the alarming statistics of gun violence in the United States and what needs to be done to prevent more tragedies from happening in the future.
Guests:
Shimon Prokupecz
- Senior Crime and Justice Correspondent, CNN
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Psychologist
- Vice Dean for Research and Scholarship at the School of Nursing, John Sealy Distinguished Chair in Community Health, and Director of the Center for Violence Prevention at UTMB Health
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
January 22, 2023, marked the 50th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, a landmark Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion nationwide. Following the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade on June 24, 2022, abortion has become illegal in Texas and 23 other states have banned abortion or are likely to do so.
First, we speak with Kim McKean, director of the Stages production, ROE, which highlights the human stories that led up to Roe v. Wade, its ruling, and the decades that followed to the present day. ROE is now playing at Stages in Houston through March 5, 2023. For more information, click here.
For the remainder of the hour, we discuss where the country is following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Joining the conversation is law professor Charles “Rocky” Rhodes, who discusses the legality surrounding current abortion access and restrictions on a state and federal level.
We also speak with Dr. McClain Sampson who explains the current options and resources available to women in Texas, now that abortion is completely banned in the state. She also details her work with the Healthy Start program, which seeks to reduce maternal and infant mortality in disenfranchised communities, increases access to prenatal care, and remove barriers to service.
Healthy Start is now serving zip codes: 77004,77016, 77021, 77033, 77035, 77047, 77067, 77088, 77091, and 77093. For more information, click here. You can also follow them on Instagram: @healthystartuh or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HealthyStartUH
For health education & navigation for women's health, Healthy Start recommends visiting these clinics: Avenue 360, Legacy Community Health, UT Physicians and Texas Children's Health Plan-The Center for Children and Women.
Guests:
Kim McKean
- Director, “Roe” at Stages
- Associate Professor of Theatre and Director of Theatre Programs, University of Texas at El Paso
Charles “Rocky” Rhodes
- Professor of State and Federal Constitutional Law, South Texas College of Law Houston
Dr. McClain Sampson
- Associate Professor at the Graduate College of Social Work, University of Houston
- Director, Healthy Start Program at UH
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
It’s one of the happiest days in a couple’s life, their wedding day. Pulling off this celebration takes a lot of time and planning.
We’re live on-location at the Bridal Extravaganza Show in Downtown Houston, a festive event with more than 255 top wedding professionals, making it a one-stop-shop to create a dream wedding. Couples will be able to talk with the experts, see the latest trends, and get ideas.
Laurette Veres, producer of The Bridal Extravaganza Show, says the event will feature six fashion shows each day showcasing the latest in bridal fashion, wedding pro seminars, a Las Vegas-style gaming area, and plenty of opportunities for photos with your bridesmaids.
Wedding planner and co-founder of Visit the Venues, Lorie Speich, shares valuable tips on how to start the planning process, budgeting, choosing a venue, photographer, dress, flowers and decor, and more. Plus, she also offers ideas on how to have a budget-friendly wedding.
We’ll also speak with Nadine Moon, travel advisor for Archer Luxury Travel, who discusses trending spots and tips for planning an amazing honeymoon.
This event will also feature Make Me A Comic, which offers a unique gift option for couples. We’ll talk with its founder, Aura Gold, who discusses how they can illustrate your love story in comic form.
We also sample exquisite cakes from bakeries such as, Sweet Extravagance, Wedding Cakes by Tammy Allen, Supreme Kakes, and “Who Made the Cake!”
The Bridal Extravaganza Show will be held at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston January 21-22, 2023. For more information, visit BridalExtravaganza.com.
Guests:
Laurette Veras
- Producer, The Bridal Extravaganza Show
Lorie Speich
- Wedding Planner
- Co-Founder, Visit the Venues
Aura Gold
- Founder, Make Me A Comic
Nadine Moon
- Travel Advisor, Archer Luxury Travel
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we talk with Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (D-TX) who discusses her efforts in leading the Dream & Promise Act and the Construction Injury Prevention Act. She also shares her thoughts on the debt ceiling and the recent Speaker of the House elections.
Then for the rest of the hour, we discuss current issues affecting the transgender community in the wake of several proposed state bills targeting trans individuals, including efforts to limit or ban gender-affirming care and limit discussion on gender and sexuality in the classroom.
Joining us for this conversation is attorney Pete Makopoulos-Senftleber, who is a board of directors member of Texas Pride Impact Funds. He shares his perspective on these issues and the importance of a trans person having legal documentation that affirms their identity.
Also, joining in the conversation is transgender activist, Eden Rose Torres, who shares her thoughts on these issues and the importance of supporting the trans community. She also shares her own personal story and how that’s led to her activism in the fight for trans rights.
For more information on Trans Legal Aid Clinic Texas, click here.
For more on Texas Pride Impact Funds or to learn more about their efforts in enriching the lives of LGBTQ+ Texans, click here.
For more information on Gender Infinity and their conferences for doctors, mental health professionals, caregivers, teachers, transgender youth and their parents, visit GenderInfinity.org.
Guests:
Rep. Sylvia Garcia
- S. Representative for 29th District of Texas
Pete Makopoulos-Senftleber
- Board Chair of Trans Legal Aid Clinic Texas
- Board of Directors Member of Texas Pride Impact Funds
Eden Rose Torres
- Transgender Activist
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we talk with personal finance expert, Suze Orman, about her outstanding career in finance, her financial tips and strategies for saving money and ensuring financial stability.
Plus, Suze answers listeners calls and helps guide them to find the best solutions to their financial questions. Her advice encompasses everything from retirement plans, investment opportunities, and which real estate paths to take.
The Women & Money Podcast is available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on Suze Orman, visit SuzeOrman.com.
Guest:
Suze Orman
- Personal Finance Expert
-
1 New York Times Bestselling Author
- Host, “The Suze Orman Show” and “Women & Money” Podcast
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we speak with actress and singer-songwriter, Faith Jones, who discusses her music career and current role as Mary Magdalene in the 50th anniversary tour of the hit musical Jesus Christ Superstar.
Jesus Christ Superstar plays at The Hobby Center in Houston January 17 - 22, 2023. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.
Then, we discuss the issues of drug addiction, the distribution of fentanyl, and the rising number of overdose deaths from the opioid crisis with Dr. Nora Volkow, Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA).
Dr. Volkow also explains her work in demonstrating that drug addiction is a brain disorder, the importance of avoiding the term drug “abuse”, and methods of recovery for those struggling with addiction.
For more information on the work that NIDA does, visit their website here.
If you or someone you know needs help, call the Substance Abuse National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Guests:
Faith Jones
- Plays Mary In Jesus Christ Superstar
Dr. Nora Volkow
- Director, National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) at the National Institutes of Health
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
January is National Eye Care Month. Given how easy it can be to neglect proper eye care, there is so much to know to keep your eyes healthy.
Dr. Danica Marrelli discusses the University of Houston’s College of Optometry, and as the only public optometry training program in Texas, it's significant in educating the next generation of eye care providers. Plus, she offers important information on the common eye disease, glaucoma.
The UH Health – Eye Care Center offers comprehensive eye exams and management of eye disorders. For more information, visit, EyeCare.opt.uh.edu or call 713-743-2020.
Ophthalmologist Dr. John Anderson, of Anderson Eye, also joins us to discuss general eye care and offers advice on how listeners can maintain excellent eye health, such as: routine eye exams, maintain healthy habits, and wear protective eyewear. Dr. Anderson also answers audience questions regarding eye treatment and preventing serious eye and vision disorders.
Anderson Eye offers personalized care for all family members. For more information, visit AndersonEyeHouston.com.
Guests:
Dr. Danica Marrelli
- Clinical Professor
- Assistant Dean for Clinical Education, University of Houston College of Optometry
Dr. John Anderson
- General Ophthalmologist, Anderson Eye
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
According to the Harris Poll, pizza is America’s favorite food. Given how many different styles and types of pizza there are, everyone has an opinion on the perfect crust, toppings, and of course, their favorite pizzeria.
For the full hour, we talk with CultureMap Houston food editor Eric Sandler who shares his knowledge on the best and most well-known pizza restaurants in Houston.
We taste the pizza pies from some local restaurants well-known for their pizza: Star Pizza, Rudyards, Pizaro’s Pizza, and Saint Arnolds Brewing Company.
Plus, listeners share their opinions on what makes a great pizza and their favorite pizza spots in town.
Guests:
Eric Sandler
- Food Editor, CultureMap Houston
Anthony Calleo
- Chef, Rudyards
Nicole Bean
- President, Pizaro’s Pizza
Mike Pittman
- Director of Operations, Star Pizza
Ryan Savoie
- Executive Chef, Saint Arnold Brewing Company
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The Ten Across Summit takes a close look at the southernmost portion of the United States, along the I-10 corridor, and how these areas respond to climate change and the issues of water, energy, infrastructure, equity, and risk. Dr. Robert Bullard, the “Father of Environmental Justice”, is a speaker at the event and explains how he is fighting for equal opportunity for disadvantaged communities when it comes to infrastructure, health, energy, and environmental protection.
The Ten Across Summit is in Houston January 10 – 12, 2023. For a list of speakers and more information, visit 10Across.com.
January 11 is National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. We talk with several guests who help us understand how prevalent it is in the Houston area, the U.S., and the world, and how the public can join in the fight.
Minal Davis, the director of the City of Houston Mayor’s Office of Human Trafficking & Domestic Violence discusses the difference between human trafficking and human smuggling, how big of an issue trafficking is in Houston, and the city’s efforts to bring awareness to the issue, and services it provides for those who have been trafficked.
We then speak with Timeka Walker, CEO of United Against Human Trafficking and Special Agent in Charge, James Smith, from the FBI Houston field office to discuss statistics on trafficking, red flags to be on the lookout for, and ways community members can help prevent more cases. For the FBI Human Trafficking Resource, click here.
We also speak with Kathy Givens who shares her personal story as a survivor and overcomer of human trafficking and how that led her to co-founding the non-profit Twelve11 Partners, dedicated to helping survivors reintegrate into society.
The Twelve11 Partners’ The Art of Overcoming Event will be at 6:30pm on February 4, 2023, at Greenstreet Plaza Downtown.
If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center’s Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733.
Guests:
Dr. Robert Bullard
- Distinguished Professor and Director of the Bullard Center for Environmental Justice and Climate Justice, Texas Southern University
Minal Davis
- Director, City of Houston Mayor’s Office of Human Trafficking & Domestic Violence
James Smith
- Special Agent In Charge, FBI Houston Field Office
Timeka Walker, LMSW
- Chief Executive Officer, United Against Human Trafficking
Kathy Givens
- Survivor / Overcomer
- Co-Founder, Twelve11 Partners
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
COVID cases and hospitalizations are on the rise, in part to the new variant XBB.1.5. Dr. James McDeavitt explains the traits of this new variant, how easily it’s transmitted and the effectiveness of the vaccine. Plus, he discusses long COVID and what we can expect from future mutations of the virus.
Dr. McDeavitt also weighs in on the surge of COVID-related deaths in China and how they’re dealing with the overwhelming death toll they’re experiencing in the aftermath of moving away from their strict zero-COVID policy.
Then, Dr. Michael Chang continues the conversation with his thoughts on how COVID symptoms have changed throughout the pandemic and answers questions from listeners about long COVID.
Plus, Dr. Chang shares the latest on the flu and RSV and if they have waned from its peak before the holiday season.
Guests:
Dr. James McDeavitt
- Executive Vice President and Dean of Clinical Affairs, Baylor College of Medicine
Dr. Michael Chang, MD
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases Physician at UTHealth Houston and Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
First, we speak with the executive director for The 100 Club, who discusses how the non-profit organization provides financial support to dependents of law enforcement officers killed or injured in the line of duty.
Then, we talk to Houston Police Department Assistant Chief Chandra Hatcher and Sergeant DeAndre Hutchison who share their stories on how they became police officers and the positive ways their work impacts the community.
We also hear from fellow Houston Police Officer, Sheldon Theragood, who shares his story founding the non-profit organization Theragood Deeds, which seeks to help inner-city youth become positive and affluential members of society. To learn more about Theragood Deeds and for information on how you can volunteer, click here.
The Houston Police Department is always hiring, and are currently offering a $10,000 signing bonus for graduating cadets. For information on Houston Police Department careers, click here.
The Afro American Police Officers League (AAPOL) also provides mentors to those interested in becoming a police officer. They also have a scholarship for graduating seniors. The app goes live February 1 on the AAPOL website. For more on the Afro-American Police Officers League, click here.
In honor of Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, one way to show appreciation is through a thank you note. If you had a good encounter with an officer, consider writing a commendation letter. A letter can be hand delivered at any police station or you can email it here: hpd.communityaffairs@houstonpolice.org.
Guests:
William Skeen
- Executive Director, 100 Club of Houston
Chandra Hatcher
- Assistant Chief, Houston Police Department
DeAndre Hutchison
- Sergeant with the Midwest Division Differential Response Team and Community Service, Houston Police Department
- Executive Director, Afro American Police Officers League
Sheldon Theragood
- Police Officer, Houston Police Department
- Founder, “Theragood Deeds”
- Author, “Whatever It Takes”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Houston Public Media’s Party Politics co-hosts, Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina, discuss the latest political news, including the Speaker of the House elections and Rep.-elect George Santos’ admission of lying about his professional and private life.
Catch Brandon & Jeronimo discussing all of these political events, and more, tonight on Party Politics, at 7:30pm on News 88.7 and at 8:00pm on TV 8.
Today, January 6, 2023, is the two-year anniversary of the insurrection of the U.S. Capitol building. After a number of hearings and hours of interviews and research, the House Select Committee’s report on January 6th is now available for the public’s review.
We talk with political science professor Bob Stein to analyze and discuss the findings of the January 6th report and try to determine what this means about the state of our democracy and will we see change from the committee’s recommendations.
Also, former U.S. Press Secretary Peter Roussel sadly passed away from cancer during the holidays. To watch his interview with Ernie Manouse on the show InnerVIEWS, click here.
Guests:
Brandon Rottinghaus
- Professor of Political Science, University of Houston
- Co-Host, “Party Politics”
Jeronimo Cortina
- Associate Professor of Political Science, University of Houston
- Co-Host, “Party Politics”
Bob Stein
- Professor of Political Science, Rice University
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
ISHIDA Dance was named one of the “25 to Watch” by Dance Magazine. Artistic director and choreographer Brett Ishida discusses how the company blends contemporary dance with theatrical elements and their upcoming performances based on original poetic narratives.
ISHIDA Dance presents an evening of world premieres, including stirs up still things, January 5 - 8, 2023, at MATCH. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.
If you made a New Year’s resolution to lose weight or eat healthier but aren’t sure how or where to start, we talk with registered dietician Amy Goodson who offered tips on how to get started, methods for sticking with these habits, and simple alternatives so you can still eat your favorite foods.
Guests:
Brett Ishida
- Artistic Director, ISHIDA Dance
Amy Goodson
- Registered Dietitian
- Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the first half hour, we talk with actor, singer, and musician Adam Pascal as he discusses his career on stage from his breakout role as Roger in RENT, to starring in many famous musicals such as AIDA, Cabaret, Chicago, Memphis, and now his current role as Edward Lewis in the current U.S. tour of Pretty Woman: The Musical.
Pretty Woman: The Musical plays the Hobby Center for Performing Arts in Houston January 3 - January 8, 2023. For information and to purchase tickets, click here.
Then, relationship and intimacy therapist Dr. Viviana Coles, DMFT, LMFT, CST discusses what lessons the story of Pretty Woman can teach people about relationships. Dr. Viviana also shares advice on improving intimacy for long-term couples and how the rules of dating have changed.
Guests:
Adam Pascal
- Tony Nominated Actor, Singer & Musician
- Plays Edward in Pretty Woman the Musical
Dr. Viviana Coles, DMFT, LMFT, CST
- Licensed Relationship & Intimacy Therapist, Houston Relationship Therapy
- Author, The 4 Intimacy Styles: The Key to Lasting Physical Intimacy
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin suddenly collapsed and suffered cardiac arrest during last night’s football game against the Cincinnati Bengals. We talk with Houston Methodist cardiologist Dr. Kevin Lisman about the rare condition he suffered, what to do in the event someone you know undergoes cardiac arrest, and the health risks of professional athletes.
Then, with a new year comes new opportunities for change. Following the indulgence associated with the holiday season, many may seek to adopt a new routine that focuses on personal fitness. History proves maintaining these fitness goals can be a challenge to keep.
We speak with life coach and fitness expert Terry the Trainer about how you can not only stick with your fitness goals in the new year, but also achieve mental wellness.
Guests:
Dr. Kevin Lisman
- Cardiologist, Houston Methodist
- Consults for the Houston Texans, Houston Astros, and other major sports teams
Terry Williams - “Terry The Trainer”
- Life Coach
- Co-Founder, The League
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, Ernie converses with Amy Spitalnick, Executive Director for Integrity First for America, who led the lawsuit against the white supremacists that planned the violent attacks in Charlottesville, Virginia, in 2017.
She discusses her involvement with the case, details of what led up to the violence, and how her team was able to successfully win the lawsuit. Spitalnick also shares her thoughts on the similarities between the violence that took place at the U.S. Capitol Building on January 6, 2021, and the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville.
Spitalnick also answers questions and offers advice on how to combat antisemitism, racism, and xenophobia, as well as the changes that need to be made to prevent further extremism from threatening our democracy.
To learn more about Integrity First for America’s work with the Charlottesville case and the impact the trial’s victory has had in their fight against white supremacy, click here.
This interview took place on October 25, 2022, at Holocaust Museum Houston. To learn more about their upcoming events, click here.
Guest:
Amy Spitalnick
- Executive Director, Integrity First for America
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Before leaving home today, you may have checked the mirror to adjust your shirt, brush your teeth, or put on makeup.
And maybe you took a moment to say, "I wish this were different."
Plumper lips, smaller waist, or, as the kids say, "Face and body snatched."
Plastic surgery may have even crossed your mind. After all, social media ads have popped up on your feed, or recently a friend has suddenly looked more... refreshed.
But what does it mean to get plastic surgery? What happens to the body and mind after a drastic change in our appearance? And is cosmetic surgery so plastic anymore?
For the show's first half, we discuss what patients should consider when choosing a surgeon, what to expect while recovering, and warning signs in plastic surgery tourism.
Then, with so many options- and ads- for plastic surgery, those struggling over their appearance may feel that it's their only hope.
What is the impact of plastic surgery on our body image and mental health, especially for those dealing with body dysmorphia and obsessive-compulsive disorder?
And what can parents do to help teens deal with their changing bodies in a social media world?
Guests
First Half
Dr. Sebastian Winocour
- Associate professor of surgery in the division of Adult Plastic Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine
- Specializing in breast cancer reconstruction and aesthetic surgery
Second Half
Dr. Eric Storch
- Professor and vice chair in the Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Baylor College of Medicine
This episode of Town Square is guest-hosted by Brenda Valdivia, in for Ernie Manouse.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Muhammad Ali once said, "It's not bragging if you can back it up."
But, for many folks, boasting about their accomplishments is an awkward experience. The introvert in us can beg us to tamp it down lest we become the obnoxious company no one can stand to be around.
But what if bragging- and some hard work- is the cornerstone to success and can change how we see ourselves?
Meredith Fineman, communications and personal brand expert, is the author of Brag Better: Master the Art of Fearless Self-Promotion.
Could the secret to success lie in an email? We explore how to sing your praises without sounding off-key and how to use bragging to be a better ally.
Guest
Meredith Fineman
- Author Brag Better: Master the Art of Fearless Self-Promotion.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In the 1970s, an anonymous teen girl's diary was an instant publishing success. Published as "a real diary," the book warned parents and teens about the dangers of drug use.
"Alice" chronicled her struggle as a teen runaway addict. Her sudden sad end shook parents as they grappled to understand their teen's emotions during the hippie-era rebellion.
Author Rick Emerson spent years researching the supposed memoir's actual author as different publications of the book changed their stance on the diary from nonfiction autobiographical to sometimes wholly fictional books.
Who was Beatrice Sparks, the woman behind the troubled teen literature? And where did publishers draw the line between fact and fiction? And how did a "diary" aimed at teens change the law against recreational drugs?
We spent the hour with Emmerson over the cultural and personal consequences of Sparks publications and what it means to be a "real diary."
Below is a clip of the movie Go Ask Alice, based on the book of the same name.
Guest
Rick Emerson
- Author of Unmask Alice: LSD, Satanic Panic, and the Imposter Behind the World's Most Notorious Diaries
This episode of Town Square is guest-hosted by Brenda Valdivia, in for Ernie Manouse.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Tabletop games like Dungeons and Dragons were perceived as a threat to society. How did games played with a stack of papers and dice reach the highest peaks of pop culture status?
Brennan Lee Mulligan, renowned game master of Dimension 20, joins us to share the behind-the-scenes of the hit streaming show and answers your gameplay questions. He has led multiple campaigns for the show, including concept and character design, creation, and hosting, often with improvised dialogue and storylines, depending on the other performer's actions.
Then, Jon Peterson, the author of Game Wizards: The Epic Battle for Dungeons & Dragons, guides us through the invention and rise of one of the most successful of the modern era. How did Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson create one of the most successful products in game history, only to find themselves at a loss during the height of their fame and fortune?
And Jay Dragon, creator of the award-winning game Wanderhome, shares how the pandemic changed the concept of role playings games from horror and competition to healing trauma with collaboration as the goal. Crowd-sourcing campaigns are the go-to for independent game companies that produce tabletop games like Yazeba's Bed & Breakfast, which can face many hurdles as game lovers become game makers.
Guests:
Brennan Lee Mulligan
- Creator and host of Dimension 20 on Dropout
- Guest host on Critical Role's miniseries, Exandria Unlimited: Calamity
Jon Peterson
- Author of Game Wizards: The Epic Battle for Dungeons & Dragons
Jay Dragon
- Creative Director and head publisher at Possum Creek Games
- Creator of Wanderhome and Yazeba's Bed & Breakfast
A trailer for Dimension 20's fifth season can be seen below, which takes Candyland-type elements with Game of Throne-level stakes.
This episode of Town Square is guest-hosted by Brenda Valdivia, in for Ernie Manouse.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Museums hold a special place in our lives and cities. They take history, science, and art concepts and bring them to life. They incite awe at the larger-than-life Triceratops skeleton, peer inside our cardiovascular system, or reflect on the brightest and darkest moments in history.
We take a look at how museums work to impact our lives as they grow to adapt to visitor expectations, not just on what artifacts are displayed, but how the museums obtain them.
First, we discuss how visitors can take advantage of the close-knit museums in midtown Houston with Houston Museum District, including free visitation days and discovering new museum spaces.
Then, we speak with the curator of the new John P. McGovern Hall of The Americas at the Houston Museum of Natural Science on how ancient artifacts of indigenous peoples are respectfully obtained and stored by the museum. We also reflect on the remarkable moments discovery plays in museum visits.
Guests
Alison Weaver
- Executive Director of the Moody Center for the Arts
- Co-President of the Board for the Houston Museum District Association
John Arcidiacono
- President & Chief Executive Officer of The Health Museum
- Board Member of the Houston Museum District Association
Dr. Dirk Van Tuerenhout
- Curator of Anthropology, the Houston Museum of Natural Science
This episode of Town Square is guest-hosted by Brenda Valdivia, in for Ernie Manouse.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
On this Town Square Christmas special, we unwrap audio gifts from long ago given by several famous performers, some of which are no longer with us. Listen and allow these hidden holiday gems to fill your hearts with Christmas spirit, featuring:
Bonnie Tyler - Silent Night
Tammy Faye Bakker - The Story of Baby Jesus
Laura Branigan - O Holy Night
Lyle Lovett - A Visit from St. Nicholas
Anita Morris - Santa Baby
Eartha Kitt - How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss
Martha Davis - I’ll Be Home for Christmas
Plus, as a special treat, we hear from loved ones of these now departed icons to reminisce on the impact they had, how they’re remembered, and the legacy they leave behind.
Guests:
James Badge Dale
- Actor
- Son of Anita Morris
Kitt Shapiro
- Author, Eartha & Kitt: A Daughter’s Love Story in Black & White
- Founder and Owner, Simply Eartha
- Daughter of Eartha Kitt
Jay Bakker
- Pastor, Speaker, Author
- Son of Tammy Faye Bakker
Kathy Golik
- President, Other Half Entertainment
- Laura Branigan Legacy Manger
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Watching Christmas movies is one of the most common ways for people to get into the spirit of the holiday season. With so many classic films to choose from, there’s something for everyone.
We first talk with filmmaker Greg Carter on how he is making new classics for the season. He’s the writer, director, and producer of Hip Hop Family Christmas and the recently released Hip Hop Family Christmas Wedding, two holiday-themed movies filmed in our own backyard, the city of Houston.
Then, we speak with Jeremy Arnold, author of Turner Classic Movies' Christmas in the Movies: 30 Classics to Celebrate the Season, who discusses many of the holiday films featured in his book, why they are considered essential holiday viewing, and what he considers to be the definition of a Christmas movie.
Plus, we hear from several listeners as they share their favorite Christmas movies to watch every holiday season.
Guests:
Greg Carter
- President/CEO at Nexus Entertainment
- Writer, Director, and Producer of the Hip Hop Family Christmas films
Jeremy Arnold
- Author of TCM's Christmas in the Movies: 30 Classics to Celebrate the Season
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
While the holidays can be a joyous time of the year, it can sometimes be very difficult to feel the holiday cheer. Many feel stressed from the extra demands of buying gifts for everyone to preparing a get-together for the whole family.
The season can also bring depression in some people who may experience loneliness or remind them of losing someone special to them. Additionally, many are still dealing with the effects that the pandemic has had on their mental health.
For the full hour of the show, we speak with psychologist Dr. Jeff Temple, who offers his advice and answers questions on how you can deal with the stress and depression that can sometimes befall the holiday season.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or having suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
Guest:
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Psychologist
- Director of the Center for Violence Prevention at UTMB Health
- Vice Dean for Research and Scholarship at the School of Nursing, UTMB Health
- John Sealy Distinguished Chair in Community Health, UTMB Health
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The magic of the holidays isn’t just about the extravagant lights or decorations, sometimes something miraculous happens during the holiday season.
Our guests today call these miracles “Godwinks”. SQuire Rushnell and Louise DuArt, explain that a “Godwink” is a “coincidence” that is not coincidence, but instead originates from a divine source. In other words, an unanswered prayer.
We talk with the pair about their New York Times Bestselling “Godwink” book series, in which they share some of the most magical stories they’ve heard. Several have even been made into films, which have aired on the Hallmark Channel, A Godwink Christmas, and on Netflix, Rescued by Ruby
Plus, we hear from several listeners who share their own holiday miracles. If you have a “Godwink” story to share, e-mail it to SQuire Rushnell at squire@godwinks.com.
Guests:
SQuire Rushnell
- New York Times Bestselling Author of the “Godwink” Series
Executive Producer of the Hallmark “Godwink” Movie Series
and the Netflix Movie, “Rescued By Ruby”
Louise DuArt
- Comedic Impressionist
New York Times Bestselling Author of the “Godwink” Series
Executive Producer of the Hallmark “Godwink” Movie Series
and the Netflix Movie, “Rescued By Ruby”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the full hour, we talk with The Countess of Carnarvon as she discusses the history of her home Highclere Castle, which was made famous for being the main setting of the critically-acclaimed historical drama series Downton Abbey.
She also discusses the history that inspired her latest book, The Earl and the Pharoah which chronicles the life of George Herbert, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, and his role in funding and taking part in the excavation of King Tutankhamun’s tomb.
The Earl and the Pharoah is available now wherever books are sold.
To watch Ernie Manouse’s previous interview with The Countess of Carnarvon on Houston Public Media’s InnerVIEWS, click here.
Guest:
The Countess of Carnarvon
- Author, “The Earl and the Pharaoh”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
With the holiday season upon us, spending time with the family by participating in local events and activities is a great way to get into the holiday spirit. Since Houston has so much to see and do during the holidays, there’s something for everyone.
We talk with Holly Clapham-Rosenow from Houston First who shares with us all the best events and activities in Houston to check out during your winter break and where to find the best Christmas light displays in your area.
For Houston Public Media’s list of the best places to see lights in Houston, click here. Another great light option is The Post Houston Winter Wonderlawn.
For those who want a change of scenery but not looking to take a trip too far from home, writer Dan Oko recommends some day trips and weekend getaways you can embark on close to Houston.
Plus, we talked with representatives from Galveston and New Orleans who share all of the holiday festivities to enjoy there.
For more information about the holiday activities and events in Galveston, click here.
For more information about the holiday activities and events in New Orleans, click here.
Guests:
Holly Clapham-Rosenow
- Chief Marketing Officer, Houston First Corporation
Dan Oko
- Award-winning Freelance Writer, published in magazines such as Texas Monthly, Texas Highways, Outside magazine, Men’s Journal, and Houston Chronicle
- Ambassador for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation “We Will Not Be Tamed” program
Michael Woody
- Chief Tourism Officer, Visit Galveston
Morgan Valerie
- Marketing and Communications Director, French Quarter Festivals
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
We’re live on-location at Lynn’s Table in Old Town Spring discussing the many different shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities to celebrate the magic of the holidays and support local small businesses.
99.7% of businesses in the United States are small businesses, so the economic impact of these businesses is profound. The district director of the Small Business Administration in Houston spoke with us about the importance of supporting these businesses and how it helps spur the economic growth of our local community.
We also learned about the history of Old Town Spring, dating back to the mid-1800s. Starting as a farming community, Old Town Spring later became a booming railroad town, before it turned into the tourist and shopping destination it is today. Be sure to visit the Spring Historical Museum for more history on Old Town Spring.
Then, we hear about the wide variety of shops found in the town featuring everything from antiques, apparel and accessories, home décor, hats, specialty boutiques, and treats from different countries, such as Germany, The Netherlands, and Britain. It’s perfect for finding unique gifts for your family and friends. Plus, when you’re ready to take a break from shopping, there are a variety of great restaurant options in town.
Our host for the day, Lynn’s Table, also shared with us the amazing food and desserts you can enjoy there, including homemade fudge.
We even enjoy a visit from Santa and Ms. Claus of Old Town Spring who share how they’re spreading holiday cheer to children of all ages this Christmas.
Find Santa at the Santa Express House in Old Town Spring. He’s there Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sundays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., weekdays December 19 – 23, 2022, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., and Christmas Eve from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Upcoming events at Old Town Spring:
Late Night Sip & Shop
December 15, 2022
4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Stores will have specialty flavored refreshments for shoppers
Ugly Sweater Sip & Shop
Saturday, December 17, 2022
11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Stores will have specialty refreshments for shoppers
For more information on Old Town Spring, visit the Spring Preservation League’s website here. Be sure to also download the Old Town Spring app.
Guests:
Tim Jeffcoat
- District Director, Small Business Administration Houston
Sue Mallott
- President, Spring Historical and Genealogical Society
Santa & Ms. Claus
- Old Town Spring Santa
Pam Golden
- Owner, GG’s
Jessica Lynn
- Owner, Lynn’s Table
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the first half hour, we speak with well-known Spanish guitarist, Benise, who’s known for creating a one-of-a-kind musical experience. He shares details of his musical career, his musical inspirations, and his new PBS special Benise: Fiesta, featuring a fiery combination of Spanish guitar, dance, and classic rock.
Benise: Fiesta airs Friday, December 9, 2022 at 8pm CT on PBS, Houston Public Media TV 8.
Then, we discuss ways to stay safe when holiday shopping online and in-person. Given how stressful and time-consuming holiday shopping can be, it can be very easy to get distracted and lower your guard to potential danger and scammers.
We talk with two guests who offer their insight on keeping your guard up during in-person and online shopping this holiday season, the warning signs to be on the lookout for, and precautions that can minimize the risk of danger.
Guests:
Benise
- Emmy Award-winning Spanish Guitarist
Carolina Petriciolet
- Director of Media Relations and Public Affairs, Houston Better Business Bureau
Sergeant Jeremy Lahar
- Houston Police Department, Office of Community Affairs
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The story of former U.S. Army Specialist Vanessa Guillen’s sexual assault and murder at Ford Hood, TX, became known worldwide, with the #IAmVanessaGuillen hashtag going viral on social media, as it raised awareness on how prevalent the issue of sexual assault within the U.S. military is.
We speak with the lawyer for the Guillen family who discusses details of the case and its importance for holding those in the military responsible and producing safeguards for victims of sexual assault.
Then, we hear from Vanessa’s sisters who share with us their efforts in seeking justice for their sister’s murder and for fellow silenced victims of injustices within the military through the I Am Vanessa Guillen Foundation.
The Netflix documentary I Am Vanessa Guillen is available now for streaming. The film chronicles Vanessa’s family’s fight for justice and change.
Guests:
Natalie Khawam
- President & Founder, Whisleblower Law Firm
Lawyer for the Guillen family
Mayra Guillen
- Oldest sister of the late Army Specialist Vanessa Guillen
President, I Am Vanessa Guillen Foundation
Advocate for silenced victims & injustices in the military
Lupe Guillen
- Youngest sister of the late Army Specialist Vanessa Guillen
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Artistic Director and founding company member of Dance Theater of Harlem, Virginia Johnson, discusses her 40-year career in dance and the legacy of one of the most recognized ballet companies. The company is in the Houston area this week, visiting schools and providing outreach and education initiatives for local students.
Here are some of their public events. For the full list, visit PerformingArtsHouston.org/education
- Many Hues, One Line: Dance Theatre Harlem dancers will join Houston Ballet dancers for a panel discussion moderated by Virginia Johnson at the Houston Ballet dance lab on December 6, 2022, from 7:15 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.
- Freedmen’s Town tour: Dance Theatre of Harlem company members will take a tour of Houston’s Freedmen’s Town Conservancy on December 8, 2022, to learn about Houston’s history.
- Public Master class: On December 10, 2022, at Houston Ballet, intermediate and advanced dancers are invited to challenge and expand sharpen their ballet technique in a masterclass led by Dance Theatre of Harlem company members. Registration is $20 and limited to 35 pre-professional and professional dancer participants.
- Holiday in the Tre: On December 10, 2022, Dance Theatre of Harlem dancers will attend the annual Holiday in the Tre festival at Houston’s Emancipation Park, leading a workshop and offering a meet & greet for festivalgoers from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- Mini performance at Wheeler Baptist Church: Dance Theatre of Harlem’s last event of the Houston Residency will be a performance of their work Holy, Holy at Wheeler Baptist Church, during the 11:30 am worship service on December 11, 2022.
In the new year, Dance Theatre of Harlem performs at Jones Hall on February 3 – 4, 2023. For more information, log on to PerformingArtsHouston.org.
Then, we shift topics to discuss St. Nicholas. We hear his name in Christmas songs, but who is he? What is his relationship to the modern image of Santa Claus?
Today, December 6th, is St. Nicholas Day, a day to celebrate the saint of the same name who was known for his kindness and generosity. Celebrated with parades, singing, and a hope to receive some treats in exchange for good behavior, this holiday certainly rings familiar.
We talk with an expert on how St. Nicholas inspired Santa Claus, his evolution in America over the years, and the origins for all the attributes found in the modern image of the Christmas mascot, from the red suit to the flying sleigh with reindeer.
Plus, we discuss equivalents of Santa Claus found in other countries from over the world and how their traditions compare with our take on the gift bringer.
Guests:
Virginia Johnson
- Artistic Director and Founding Company Member, Dance Theatre of Harlem
Robert Thompson
- Director, Bleier Center for Television and Popular Culture
- Trustee Professor, Newhouse School of Public Communications, Syracuse University
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
International opera singer Cecilia Duarte stars in the Houston Grand Opera production of El Milagro del Recuerdo, a mariachi-inspired opera celebration of family and tradition set during the holidays.
Duarte joins us to discuss her role as Renata in the female-directed production, as well as, her thoughts on the evolution of women’s role in opera through the years.
El Milagro del Recuerdo plays December 8 - 18, 2022, at the Wortham Theater Center. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit HoustonGrandOpera.org.
Despite many women being the greatest superstars in opera, the industry has been dominated by men for centuries. We talk with the director of community & learning for Houston Grand Opera and a professor of music history and opera literature about the history of women’s roles in opera, the progress that been made and still needs to be made. Plus, the initiatives and programs Houston Grand Opera has implemented to create more diversity and representation in the opera industry.
Guests:
Cecilia Duarte
- International Opera Singer (Mezzo-Soprano)
Stars as Renata in Houston Grand Opera’s El Milagro del Recuerdo
Jennifer Bowman
- Director of Community & Learning, Houston Grand Opera
Dr. Kathryn Caton
- Professor of Music History and Opera Literature, University of Houston Moores School of Music
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Given how vast and endless our universe is, there is so much to learn and discover about how everything works, and because of this, there is so much we either don’t know or don’t understand.
We talk with physicist, philosopher, and New York Times bestselling author, Sean Carroll, who will offer and explain various scientific topics such as black holes, dark matter, entropy and so much more regarding the universe and our place in it.
Many of the scientific topics and themes he will discuss can be found in his recently released book, The Biggest Ideas in the Universe: Space, Time, and Motion, which is available now wherever books are sold.
To watch Sean Carroll’s YouTube channel, click here.
Guest:
Sean Carroll
- New York Times Bestselling Author
- Homewood Professor of Natural Philosophy at Johns Hopkins University
- Fractal Faculty at the Santa Fe Institute
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
December 1st is World AIDS Day, a day to bring awareness, remember, and stand in solidarity with those who are living with or lost their lives to HIV or AIDS. There are an estimated 38 million people worldwide who are living with the virus and 35 million people who have died of HIV or an AIDS-related illness.
We talk with the CEO of AIDS Foundation Houston about the great work they do in the greater Houston area to bring awareness and support those living with HIV/AIDS. Their annual World AIDS Day luncheon is Friday, December 2, 2022, at the Ballroom at Bayou Place. For more information, click here.
Then, we converse with Oscar nominated filmmaker, New York Times Bestselling author, and award-winning investigative journalist David France about his acclaimed book, How to Survive a Plague, which has been hailed as “the definitive book on AIDS activism.” The book and the documentary of the same name both chronicle the efforts of AIDS activist groups who seized upon the scientific research that helped develop the drugs which turned HIV into a manageable condition.
He will also offer his insight on the epidemic in retrospect and share details of his experience as an investigative journalist that reported on the epidemic since its early years.
David France’s Academy Award nominated documentary How to Survive a Plague and his most recent film How to Survive a Pandemic are currently streaming on HBO Max.
Guests:
John Huckaby
- Chief Executive Officer, AIDS Foundation Houston
David France
- Oscar-nominated filmmaker, New York Times bestselling author, and award-winning investigative journalist
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Protests have erupted in China with many calling for an end to lockdowns following a surge of COVID cases despite the country’s strict zero-COVID policy.
Due to the rare nature of public protests in China, we talk with an expert over what has led to these protests and determine what we can expect from them. Plus, he shares his thoughts on what the future of COVID is here in the U.S.
With the rising number of cases and hospitalizations from COVID-19, the flu, and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) in the U.S., many have labelled this collision of illnesses the “Triple-demic.”
Due to the amount of sickness experienced during the winter months, we talk with an infectious disease expert who explains the levels of illness we’re experiencing now and shares with us how we can stay safe during the holiday season.
Guests:
Dr. William Haseltine
- Chair & President, ACCESS Health International
Former Medical School & School of Public Health Professor at Harvard
Founder, Harvard University’s Cancer & HIV / AIDS Research Departments
Author, My Lifelong Fight Against Disease: From Polio and AIDS to COVID-19 and A Family Guide to Long COVID
Dr. Susan McLellan
- Infectious Disease Doctor at U-T-M-B Health
and Specialist in Emerging Infectious Diseases
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Houston is home to one of the largest and most diverse theater districts in the country. With plays, musicals, the ballet, opera, symphony and more, there’s something for everyone.
We start the conversation by discussing Houston’s Theater District and the cultural and economic impact on the city, particularly during the holiday season.
Then, an ensemble of representatives and performers from Houston’s major theater companies share the special productions you can enjoy during the holidays.
Houston BalletThe Nutcracker
November 25 – December 27, 2022
Brown Theater at the Wortham Theater Center
HoustonBallet.org
Jubilee of Dance
December 2, 2022
Brown Theater at the Wortham Theater Center
HoustonBallet.org
Houston Grand OperaEl Milagro Del Recuerdo
December 8 – 18, 2022
Cullen Theater at the Wortham Theater Center
HoustonGrandOpera.org
Houston Symphony
Home Alone – Film with Live Orchestra
December 3, 2022
Jones Hall
HoustonSymphony.org
Handel’s Messiah
December 9, 10 & 11, 2022
Jones Hall
HoustonSymphony.org
A Very Merry Pops
December 15, 17 & 18, 2022
Jones Hall
HoustonSymphony.org
Ho-Ho-Holiday! Polar Express, Frozen & More
December 17, 2022
Jones Hall
HoustonSymphony.org
Theatre Under the Stars
Mary Poppins
December 6 – 24, 2022
The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts
TUTS.com
Alley Theatre
A Christmas Carol
November 18 – December 30, 2022
Alley Theatre
AlleyTheatre.org
What-A-Christmas
December 2 – 24, 2022
Alley Theatre
AlleyTheatre.org
Performing Arts Houston
Blind Boys of Alabama Christmas Show
December 4, 2022
Jones Hall
PerformingArtsHouston.org
Cirque Dreams Holidaze
December 23 – 24, 2022
Jones Hall
PerformingArtsHouston.org
Main Street Theater
The Wickhams: Christmas at Pemberley
November 19 – December 18, 2022
Main Street Theater – Rice Village
MainStreetTheater.com
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella
November 11 – December 23, 2022
MATCH
MainStreetTheater.com
A.D. Players
A Texas Carol
November 30 – December 23, 2022
The George Theater
ADPlayers.org
The Ensemble Theatre
A Motown Christmas
November 17 – December 24, 2022
The Ensemble Theatre
EnsembleHouston.com
STAGES
“Houston for the Holidays”
November 18 – December 24, 2022
Rochelle and Max Levit Stage at STAGES
StagesHouston.com
Panto Snow White and the Seven Dorks
November 25 – December 24, 2022
Lester and Sue Smith Stage at STAGES
StagesHouston.com
The Music Box Theater
A Beatles Holiday Cabaret
December 2 – 28, 2022
The Music Box Theater
TheMusicBoxTheater.com
Queensbury Theatre
Tribble School Dance Concert
December 2 – 3, 2022
Queensbury Theatre
QueensburyTheatre.org
New Year’s From Around the World
ECHOrchestra
December 30, 2022
Queensbury Theatre
QueensburyTheatre.org
Ars Lyrica Houston
ArsLyricaHouston.org
DaCamara
Dacamera.org
Houston Saengerbund
HoustonSaengerbund.org
Guests:
Hillary Hart
- Executive Director, Theatre Under The Stars
Chair of the Board, Theater District Houston
Dr. Doni Wilson
- Professor of English, Houston Christian University
Arts Writer, Houston Chronicle
David Rainey
- Resident Acting Company Member, Alley Theatre
Plays Scrooge in “A Christmas Carol”
Lee Strickland
- Director of Artistic Programs, Performing Arts Houston
Rebecca Greene Udden
- Founding Artistic Director, Main Street Theater
Jayme McGhan
- Executive Artistic Director, A.D. Players at the George Theater
Eileen Morris
- Artistic Director, Ensemble Theatre
DeQuina Moore
- Actress & Star, “Houston for the Holidays”
Kristina Sullivan
- Executive Director, Queensbury Theatre/Tribble School for the Performing Arts
Cast Member, Music Box Theater
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Late Sunday evening, Houstonians were alerted that a boil water notice was effect. This occurred after the East Water Purification Plant experienced a power outage earlier that day and the water pressure dropped below 20 PSI, which is the regulatory emergency level set by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).
Those who receive water from the city of Houston are advised to boil their water for two minutes and let it cool before it’s safe for consumption. This is for water used in food preparation, drinking, bathing and brushing teeth. It is also advised to not use the chilled water lines in refrigerators or ice from an automatic ice machine.
It is unknown when the issue will be remedied. For more information, call 311 or 713-837-0311.
Our panel of experts answer listener questions on how water systems work, the issues this incident brings up, and what Houston residents can do to ensure their health and safety.
To follow live updates, click here for the latest updates from Houston Public Media.
For the Houston Heath Department's FAQ on Boil Water Notices, click here.
Guests:
Lucio Vasquez
- Houston Public Media Reporter
Dr. Pedro Alvarez
- George R. Brown Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Director of the NEWT Center at Rice University
Dr. Kristina Mena
- Water Microbiologist, UT Health Houston School of Public Health
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
With the recent mass shootings at a Walmart in Virginia and Club Q in Colorado Springs, how can we feel safe? We talk with author and the retired FBI agent who created the FBI’s active shooter program, Katherine Schweit, about what we can do, what are the warning signs, and how we can protect ourselves in order to stay safe.
If you find yourself in an active shooter situation, Schweit says, “Run. Hide. Fight.” Click here to watch an informational video on what to do in these situations to keep yourself safe.
Then, we shift topics to discuss family dynamics and how to handle difficult conversations that come up during family gatherings. Given how common it is for arguments to arise during Thanksgiving, and how divided our country is on many issues, navigating these conversations away from family squabbles can be difficult.
We speak with two experts on how to have those difficult discussions during family gatherings without it escalating out of control.
Guests:
Katherine Schweit
- Retired F-B-I Special Agent who created the FBI’s Active Shooter program
- Author, “Stop the Killing: How to End the Mass Shooting Crisis”
Dr. Michele Williams
- Associate Professor of Management and Entrepreneurship at the Tippie College of Business, University of Iowa
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Vice Dean for Research and Scholarship, School of Nursing
- John Sealy Distinguished Chair in Community Health
- Director, Center for Violence Prevention, UTMB Health
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
We gear up for Black Friday with tips on the hot tech items to be on the lookout for this holiday season with the High-Tech Texan, Michael Garfield. Plus, smart shopping expert, Trae Bodge, offers advice on the best deals, where to find them, and how to save money as you shop ‘til you drop.
As we shop for gifts for our loved ones, remember those children who may not receive a toy during the holidays. Toys for Tots is on a mission to deliver hope to those children who may not otherwise receive a gift. We talk with a representative from the organization who explains the history of the program and their efforts to ensure that every underprivileged child receives a present for Christmas. To learn more about Toys for Tots or to donate today, visit ToysForTots.org.
Guests:
Sargent Isaac Pompa
- Assistant Coordinator, Toys for Tots Houston
Michael Garfield
- The High-Tech Texan
Trae Bodge
- Smart Shopping Expert at Truetrae.com
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For many, there’s no Thanksgiving dinner without that traditional turkey as the centerpiece of the dinner table. However, making that holiday bird can also be a tedious and stressful process.
We talk with the supervisor of the Butterball Turkey Talk-Line who shares helpful tips for cooking up the perfect Thanksgiving turkeys. Plus, she shares advice on how to avoid common mistakes when roasting, grilling, or frying your bird.
For the Butterball Turkey Talk-Line, call 1-800-BUTTERBALL or text 844-877-3456 to talk with turkey experts from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
We also talk with a food author and founder of the food blog “Little Fat Boy” who shares some non-traditional Thanksgiving recipes and alternatives to a traditional turkey dinner.
Guests:
Barbara Robinson
- Butterball Turkey Talk-Line Supervisor
Frankie Gaw
- Author, “First Generation: Recipes From My Taiwanese American Home”
- Founder of the food blog, “Little Fat Boy”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Thanksgiving is an opportunity to not only remind us of what we are thankful for, but also to give back to those less fortunate. We talk with a representative from the Houston Food Bank who explains what the organization is doing to distribute meals to food insecure families and how you can get involved to help. One easy way is to volunteer, and there are a multitude of ways in which individuals and groups can volunteer. To register online to volunteer with the Houston Food Bank, click here.
Given how stressful preparing a Thanksgiving dinner for your family can be, we talk with the Executive Editor of Equipment Testing and Ingredient Tasting from America’s Test Kitchen, Lisa McManus. She shares advice on the best tools to help make preparing your meal a breeze and offers tips on how to put dinner on the table in a timely fashion.
Guests:
Katherine “Kat” Tong
- Director of Volunteer Services, Houston Food Bank
Lisa McManus
- Executive Editor of Equipment Testing & Ingredient Tasting, America’s Test Kitchen
- Co-Host, “Gear Heads” YouTube Show
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
We talk with jazz sensation Matthew Whitaker who at age 21 is being hailed as “the second coming of Ray Charles.” He shares his journey of being born blind and having a natural aptitude for playing music. Matthew’s gift for music has even been the subject of study by scientists to better understand the minds of those with creative talent.
Matthew’s new album Connections is available now. To listen, click here.
Performing Arts Houston presents Matthew Whitaker at the Cullen Theater at Wortham Center on Friday, November 18, 2022, at 7:30pm. For information and to purchase tickets, click here.
We then take a closer look at the upheaval in the cyber world, the economy, and the supply chain. How will it affect your holidays? Our experts share their thoughts on everything from the effects digital streaming has had on the entertainment industry to the collapse of crypto exchange FTX and how consumers have been defrauded for billions of dollars. We also discuss the recent actions of Elon Musk’s takeover of Twitter and Jeff Bezos giving away his billions of dollars to charity.
Guests:
Matthew Whitaker
- Pianist, Organist, and Drummer
Dr. Chris Bronk
- Associate Professor, Hobby School of Public Affairs, University of Houston
- Non-Resident Scholar, Baker Institute for Public Policy
Dr. Dietrich Von Biedenfeld
- Assistant Professor, Marilyn Davies College of Business, University of Houston Downtown
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
A lot of action has been seen recently in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Russia recently retreated from Kherson but also launched a missile strike against Kyiv. Ukraine fought back and was able to shoot down many of those missiles. Additionally, two stray missiles, the origins of which have still yet to be determined, hit, and killed two civilians in Poland. We talk with a professor of political science who shares his views on these developments.
We also talk with political experts on the results of last week’s 2022 Midterm elections on the national, state and local level. They also discuss the number of election issues reported in Harris county.
Our experts also weigh in on Donald Trump’s announcement that he will run in the 2024 Presidential race and how successful he will be despite the myriad of controversies that surround him.
Guests:
Dr. Richard Stoll
- Rice Faculty Scholar, Baker Institute for Public Policy
- Albert Thomas Professor of Political Science, Rice University
Bill King
- Co-Chair, Forward Party of Texas
- Contributor, Real Clear Politics
- Former columnist and editorial board member, Houston Chronicle.
Elizabeth Simas
- Associate Professor of Political Science, University of Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Many of the most beloved musicals take inspiration from history such as Hamilton, Evita, 1776, Newsies, and more recently, SIX. We talk with the actress playing Katherine Howard in the North American “Boleyn” tour of SIX, which tells the story of the ex-wives of Henry VIII presented as a modern pop concert. She’ll discuss her role in this production and where she found inspiration for playing a real-life queen.
SIX is currently playing at the Hobby Center in Houston until November 20, 2022. For tickets and more information, click here.
Sharing history in a new, entertaining and modern way can bring audiences to understand the past, but what is lost in these interpretations? How important is historical accuracy?
Our panel of experts, including a professor of history and a theater expert, discuss their feelings on how history is translated on stage and on screen. We break down the truth behind shows such as 1776, Assassins, Hamilton and The Crown, and discuss if these retellings are good, or bad, for history. Plus, in the case of The Crown, how important is a “true depiction” if the people and the subject matter are current?
Guests:
Aline Mayagoitia
- Actress, Plays Katherine Howard in SIX the Musical
Claire Potter
- Professor of History, The New School for Social Research
- Co-Executive Editor, Public Seminar
- Creator, the History Podcast, Why Now?
- Editor and Contributor, Historians on Hamilton: How a Blockbuster Musical is Restaging America’s Past
Robert Viagas
- Former Managing Editor, Playbill
- Editor-In-Chief, Encore Monthly
- Author, Good Morning Olive: Haunted Theatres of Broadway and Beyond and Right This Way: A History of the Audience
Helen Mann, MBE
- Former British Vice Consul, British Consulate General in Houston
- Former Panelist, Manor of Speaking
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Former attorney Michael Cohen was known as the “fixer” and personal counsel to Donald Trump for many years, including during his presidency.
In 2018, he plead guilty to eight counts of tax fraud, bank fraud, and campaign-finance violations. He served one year of a three-year sentence in a federal prison and served the remaining time under house arrest.
Michael Cohen discusses his new book, Revenge: How Donald Trump Weaponized the Department of Justice Against His Critics, which delves into how Trump had the Department of Justice strong-arm him into pleading guilty.
He will also pull back the curtain to reveal motivations behind Trump’s actions and how his arrest and prison sentence affected his personal and private life.
Revenge: How Donald Trump Weaponized the Department of Justice Against His Critics is available now wherever books are sold.
Guest:
Michael Cohen
Former Attorney for President Donald Trump
Author, “Revenge: How Donald Trump Weaponized the Department of Justice Against His Critics”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
November 11 is Veterans Day in the United States, a national holiday to recognize and honor those who have served in our country’s armed forces and fought for our freedom.
We talk with the Director of Grand Valley State University’s Veterans History Project to discuss the history of U.S. veterans and how they’ve been viewed throughout different wars over the past century.
To access the interviews of GVSU’s Veterans History Project, click here. To watch the interviews on their YouTube channel, click here.
We then shift topics and talk with author Andrew Weiss on his graphic novel Accidental Czar: The Life and Lies of Vladimir Putin, which chronicles the life of Russian President Vladimir Putin and how he created the persona of a strongman and political mastermind.
Weiss utilizes a graphic novel style to not only engage with readers more but also to satirize and shatter the cartoonish façade that Putin has created for himself and expose the man underneath.
Accidental Czar: The Life and Lies of Vladimir Putin is available now wherever books are sold.
Guests:
Dr. James Smither
- Professor of History, Grand Valley State University
- Director, GVSU Veterans History Project
Andrew Weiss
- Author, Accidental Czar: The Life & Lies of Vladimir Putin
- James Family Chair and Vice President for Studies,
Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
With the holidays just around the corner, the Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market is the perfect place for holiday shopping with over 270 merchants selling a wide variety of items such as home décor, gifts, food, apparel, toys, accessories and more.
We talk with Houston Ballet’s executive director, the director of Houston Ballet Academy and the chairman of the Nutcracker Market who explain the importance of Houston Ballet and the great work it does, the history of this fundraising event and how the proceeds benefit Houston Ballet, its students, and the community.
We also spoke with the artistic director who discussed the art of ballet and the importance of innovation. The upcoming performance of The Nutcracker plays November 25 - December 27, 2022. For tickets and more information, click here.
We also talked with artist Christopher Radko who discussed his handblown glass ornament collection, HeARTfully Yours. A portion of the sales go to many great causes such as heart disease, breast cancer, and relief for Ukraine. To learn more about HeARTfully Yours, click here.
We also explored the wide variety of booths at the market and talked with the merchants like Sweet Country Charm Fudge & Candy Shop, Grillight, Illumindol, and Susie’s South Forty Confections. They all shared the exciting items shoppers can find at each of their respective booths.
The Nutcracker Market is November 10-13, 2022, at NRG Center. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.
Guests:
Jim Nelson
- Executive Director, Houston Ballet
Jennifer Sommers
- Director, Houston Ballet Academy
Stanton Welch
- Artistic Director, Houston Ballet
Mr. Christopher Radko
- Artist, HeARTfully Yours
Casey Rowe
- Chairman, Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market 2022
Denise Van Amburgh
- Sweet Country Charm Fudge & Candy Shop
Colton Knittig
- Founder, Grillight
Gavin Inverso
- Illuminidol
Gloria Marron
- Susie’s South Forty Confections
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Tuesday, November 8, 2022, is Election Day, the final day to cast your ballot and have your voice heard.
We heard from Houston Public Media reporters who were out at polling sites throughout the area on voter turnout, what they are seeing at the polls and reporting issues arising at the locations.
Americans are concerned with a variety of issues, including the economy, inflation, immigration, crime, and abortion.
Representatives from both sides of the aisle, from the right and the left, join us to discuss these issues, along with how each political party gets their message across, what each side hopes to achieve from this election, and what we can expect from each side should the other prove victorious in certain races.
Guests:
Dallas Jones
- President & CEO, ELITE Change, Inc
Jessica Colón
- Founder, Colón & Company
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The city of Houston celebrates after the Houston Astros win against the Philadelphia Phillies at the World Series. To commemorate the baseball team’s victory, a parade of champions commenced in downtown Houston on November 7, 2022.
With us to discuss the fan’s celebratory reactions and the impact that this World Series win means for the city of Houston and the Astros is Matt Harab, Houston Public Media’s morning news anchor and former sports host.
We then shift topics to discuss voting and the importance of making your voice heard. With us to answer questions about voting in this election we talked with the President of the League of Women Voters Houston and the Deputy Director of Communications for the Harris County Elections Administration.
For the League of Women Voters Houston Voters Guide, click here.
For more information about this election visit the Harris County Elections website here.
Texas State Voter Hotline: 1.866.OUR VOTE (687.8683)
Guests:
Matt Harab
- Houston Public Media Morning News Anchor
Former Sports Talk Show Host
Nadia Hakim
- Deputy Director of Communications, Harris County Elections Administration
Dr. Annie Johnson Benifield
- President, League of Women Voters of Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Researchers are working hard to find a cure to Alzheimer’s disease, which affects more than six million Americans, and is the sixth leading cause of death for adults in our country. Through their efforts, new research and studies have proven helpful in ways to prevent the disease and even possible treatments.
We learn about these findings from our panel of medical experts who discuss possible contributing factors, ways to prevent the disease, and the latest information on efforts to find treatments and a possible cure.
We also discuss the 90+ Study, which studies people over the age of ninety, how they live to that age, and whether their minds show any signs of decline. We also talk with a participant of this study who shares her thoughts on longevity.
If you would like to help raise awareness and support for Alzheimer’s disease, donate or register for the Walk to End Alzheimer's, a fundraising event sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association. It’s the largest fundraiser and awareness event for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.
The Houston area event takes place on Saturday, November 5, 2022, at the University of Houston’s Lynn Eusan Park. Registration and arrival is at 8:00 a.m., and the walk begins at 9:30 a.m. This dog-friendly event will feature a walk, a DJ, kids area and vendors. For more information click here.
Baylor Medicine and the Alzheimer’s Association host their 2022 Update on Alzheimer’s Disease presentation on Tuesday, December 13, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. CT. The event will feature Melissa Yu, MD, FAAN, and Chi-Ying Lin, MD, MPH To register for this virtual event, click here.
For emergencies call the Alzheimer’s Association’s 27/7 Help Line at 800-272-3900.
Guests:
Christine Howard
- Houston Walk Manager, Alzheimer’s Association
Dr. Ahmad Sajjadi
- Cognitive Neurologist
- Associate Professor of Neurology and Pathology, University of California Irvine
Dr. Melissa Yu
- Professor of Neurology
- Director of Clinical Operations, Alzheimer’s Disease & Memory Disorders Center at Baylor College of Medicine
Marlene Frederickson
- Participant in 90+ Study
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Dick Gregory was a prominent comedian and activist who was very active in the civil rights movement during the 1960s. While initially known as a comedian, his activism would, particularly during this decade of change, define his legacy.
Joining us is his son and manager, Christian Gregory, who discusses his father’s legacy as a prominent civil rights figure. A new book, The Essential Dick Gregory, features a collection of the activist’s greatest works. It is available now wherever books are sold.
Then, New York Times bestselling author, Thomas E. Ricks, joins us to talk about the Civil Rights Movement from a military perspective and discusses the non-violent strategies that were used and what we can learn from this approach today.
This is covered in greater detail in his book, Waging a Good War: A Military History of the Civil Rights Movement 1954-1968, which is also out now wherever books are sold.
Thomas E. Ricks will appear in-person at the Texas Book Festival in Austin, TX, on Saturday, November 5, 2022, from 2:00 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.
Guests:
Christian Gregory
Editor, “The Essential Dick Gregory”
Dick Gregory’s Son & Manager
Thomas E. Ricks
New York Times Bestselling Author
Author, “Waging A Good War: A Military History of the Civil Rights Movement 1954 – 1968”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Día de los Muertos (“Day of the Dead”), is a holiday celebrated in Mexico and various Latin American countries from November first through second, in which the lives of deceased relatives are honored and remembered by their loved ones.
Families will make home altars and place ofrendas, or offerings, of their deceased loved one’s favorite foods, drinks, and mementos to honor and celebrate their memory, as opposed to mourning them.
Our panel of experts explain the cultural, historical, and spiritual significance of Día de los Muertos and give context to the various traditional items associated with the holiday such as calaveras, marigold flowers, and pan de muerto.
For more information on Day of the Dead and it’s history in the U.S., Dr. Regina Marchi’s book, Day of the Dead in the USA: The Migration and Transformation of a Cultural Phenomenon, is a great resource.
To learn more about Mexican and Mexican-American traditions, visit Casa Ramirez for their annual celebration of Día de los Muertos which features altars, folk art, jewelry, and paintings from local Mexican artists. For more information, click here.
If you’re interested in pan de muerto, visit an Arandas Bakery location near you.
Guests:
Dr. Regina Marchi
- Associate Professor of Journalism and Media Studies, Rutgers University
- Affiliated Professor, Rutgers Center for Latin American Studies
- Author, Day of the Dead in the USA: The Migration and Transformation of a Cultural Phenomenon
Carlos Aguilar
- Former Broadcast Journalist
- Media Literacy Teacher at Sharpstown High School
- Casa Ramirez Folk Art Gallery Emcee
Ricardo Hernandez
- Director of Operations, Arandas Bakery - Beechnut location
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
With all the distractions we have today, from cell phones to social media, it can be very difficult for parents to encourage their children to read.
For this conversation, we talk with international best-selling author of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, Jeff Kinney, to discuss his widely popular books and his contributions to creating more young readers. The latest entry in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, Diper Överlöde is available now wherever books are sold.
The Diper Överlöde Tour rocks Houston on Wednesday, November 2, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. Jeff Kinney emcees this special concert-style event at Alief Taylor High School Auditorium. The event is hosted by Blue Willow Bookshop. For more information, click here.
Also, the second book in the series, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules, comes to life on screen with a premiere December 2, 2022 on Disney+.
Then, we converse with the President of the American Association of School Librarians who is with us to answer literary questions and to offer her insight on children’s literacy.
To download free e-books from your local library, download the Libby app from your favorite app store.
If you believe your child can learn to read more through Zines, check out Zine Fest Houston on November 12, 2022, from 12pm to 6pm at the Orange Show. For more information, click here.
Guests:
Jeff Kinney
-
1 international bestselling author, Diary of a Wimpy Kid series
Kathy Lester
- School Librarian and President of the American Association of School Librarians
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For our Halloween special, we start our conversation by discussing our fascination of horror films with Nina Nesseth, the author of Nightmare Fuel: The Science of Horror Films. In the book, she helps answer questions on why we love horror films so much and, even though we’re scared, we still come back for more. Nina’s book is available wherever books are sold.
We then shift our conversation to real life ghostly tales with paranormal expert Steve Shippy and historian and author Kathleen Maca. They discuss what they’ve witnessed and share their views regarding the existence of ghosts.
We’ll also hear about two possible captured images of ghosts from the individuals who were there when the pictures were taken. Will our paranormal experts think the ghosts are real? And we’ll take calls from our listeners who share their ghost stories.
Steve Shippy’s special Shock Doc – Ghosts of Flight 401 is streaming now on Discovery +.
Guests:
Nina Nesseth
- Author, Nightmare Fuel: The Science of Horror Films
Steve Shippy
- Filmmaker and Paranormal Expert
Kathleen Maca
- Author, “Ghosts of Galveston”
- Founder of “Tales from Texas” Blog
Henry Yau
- Public Relations and Promotions Director, Children’s Museum of Houston
- Captured picture of possible ghost at Stanley Hotel
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
We start by speaking with a more light-hearted monster, Eddie Munster. Actor Butch Patrick joins us to talk about his iconic role as the beloved werewolf child from the classic television show The Munsters.
He will also discuss the upcoming Munster Mash Art Extravaganza taking place this weekend in Houston, which will feature artwork from notable artists such as Alan Bodner, John Douglas, Tim Burton, and Gene Simmons.
A special appearance by Butch Patrick and the famous Munster Koach is scheduled for Monday, October 31, 2022, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The event takes place at Complete Pictures at 3701 W. Alabama Street, Suite 110, in Houston, TX. For more information, click here.
We then shift to a more frightening monster, as we speak with the first actor to portray Jason Voorhees, Ari Lehman, who discusses playing the character in the original Friday the 13th film and his band First Jason.
Meet Ari Lehman and see his band perform at the Halloween Horror Market Pop-Up on October 29, 2022, in Katy, TX. For more information, click here.
Nick Castle, famous for playing Michael Myers in the original Halloween film in 1978, also joins us. He explains how he got to play the frightening character and return to the character in the new Halloween films.
We also chat with the head curator of the horror streaming service Shudder, to discuss the current state of the horror genre and offer scary movie recommendations you can check out on Halloween.
Guests:
Butch Patrick
- Actor, Musician
Ari Lehman
- Musician, Composer, Actor
Nick Castle
- Screenwriter, Director, Actor
Sam Zimmerman
- VP of Programming at Shudder
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For the first part of the hour, the lead singer and promoter of Kalush Orchestra joined us. Hot off their Eurovision 2022 win, the Ukrainian hip hop band talked with us about their North American tour, and what they are doing to help the Ukrainian war effort.
Kalush Orchestra performs Friday, October 28, 2022, at Decorum nightclub inside Pour Behavior in Midtown, Houston. For more information, click here.
For the rest of the hour, we discuss the dangers that sextortion poses to children online. We’re joined by the filmmaker of the film, Sextortion: The Hidden Pandemic, an investigation into the tactics used by these online predators and real-life examples of victims and families affected by these types of crimes.
We’ll also talk with Carol Todd, who shares how her daughter, Amanda Todd, was a victim of a sextortion crime and tragically took her own life at the age of fifteen. Carol founded Amanda Todd Legacy; a non-profit organization devoted to bringing awareness to the dangers of sextortion.
To see Amanda Todd’s viral video, click here.
The film, Sextortion: The Hidden Pandemic, is available to rent or purchase on all digital platforms. The website also features resources on how to talk to your child about sextortion and videos to help open the discussion. For more on these resources, click here.
Our panel of experts also weighs in and offers advice on what parents can do to keep this from happening to their children and how they can talk to their children about this difficult subject.
For Dr. Jeff Temple’s Primer on Teen Sexting, click here.
If you or someone you know is being targeted, report it to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children Cyber Tip Line: 1-800-THE-LOST
Guests:
Oleg Psiuk
- Lead Singer, Kalush Orchestra
Igor Golubchik
- Promoter, Kalush Orchestra
Maria Peek
- Director, Editor & Producer, “Sextortion: The Hidden Pandemic”
Carol Todd
- Founder, Amanda Todd Legacy
Erin Burke
- Unit Chief, Child Exploitation Investigations Unit at Cyber Crimes Center, Homeland Security Investigations
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Psychologist
Vice Dean of Research and Scholarship, School of Nursing
John Sealy Distinguished Chair in Community Health Professor
Director, Center for Violence Prevention
UTMB Health
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Trust in the media and the press has fallen significantly in the last fifty years. It’s just half of what it was in the 1970’s. With us today to help determine whether journalistic integrity still exists and her thoughts on the current state of the media is journalist Margaret Sullivan.
In her newly released book, Newsroom Confidential: Lessons (And Worries) From An Ink-Stained Life, Sullivan chronicles her career, challenges she faced as a woman in journalism, and what she believes needs to be done in order for Americans to regain their trust in the news.
Guest:
Margaret Sullivan
- Former Public Editor, The New York Times
- Former Media Columnist, The Washington Post
- Author, Newsroom Confidential: Lessons (And Worries) From An Ink-Stained Life
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Our guests, Danny Robertshaw and Ron Danta, are the founders of Danny and Ron’s Rescue, a rescue organization that has rescued and rehabilitated nearly 14,000 dogs over the past 17 years.
The work they’ve done with their rescue organization has been the subject of the 2018 documentary film Life in the Doghouse and the book Forever Home: How We Turned Our House Into A Haven For Abandoned, Abused, and Misunderstood Dogs – and Each Other.
They discuss their commitment to rescue and rehabilitate thousands of mistreated dogs, what it’s like caring for so many dogs, and offer tips and advice on how to care for a rescue dog.
Guests:
Ron Danta
- Founder, Danny and Ron's Rescue
- Author, Forever Home: How We Turned Our House Into A Haven For Abandoned, Abused, and Misunderstood Dogs – and Each Other
Danny Robertshaw
- Founder, Danny and Ron’s Rescue
- Author, Forever Home: How We Turned Our House Into A Haven For Abandoned, Abused, and Misunderstood Dogs – and Each Other
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Early voting is underway in Texas. Recently, there have been questions and concerns raised over how to vote and the security of the voting process.
To help answer questions about the different ways to cast your ballot in this upcoming election, we talk with two representatives from the Harris County Elections Office, including the Harris County Elections Administrator.
We also are joined by a professor of political science from Rice University to discuss voter irregularities and determine the validity of the various voting issues being raised in this upcoming election.
Please note, the deadline to get your application in for vote by mail is Friday, October 28, 2022.
Houston Public Media's How to Vote Guide, click here.
Houston Public Media's Key Races to Watch List, click here.
Guests:
Clifford Tatum
- Harris County Elections Administrator
Nadia Hakim
- Deputy Director of Communications for the Harris County Elections Administration
Robert Stein
- Professor of Political Science, Rice University
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Today, Friday, October 21, 2022, is the final day of our Houston Public Media Fall Radio Drive.
In this Town Square special, we hear from the staff here at Houston Public Media who help make the amazing content you hear every day possible.
Tune in and find out where your donations go and the how they get turned into the quality content you enjoy for your daily listening.
Give today (October 21, 2022) and your gift will be triple matched! However, you can donate anytime to continue supporting the work we do. To donate, click here.
Guests:
Lisa Shumate
- Associate Vice President, UH System
- General Manager, Houston Public Media
Jack Williams
- News Anchor, Houston Public Media
Mary Ann Marucci
- Senior Director of Advancement, Houston Public Media
Brenda Valdivia
- Producer, Town Square with Ernie Manouse
Dave DeJohn
- Director of Educational Projects and Initiative, Houston Public Media
Josh Adams
- Station Manager, Houston Public Media
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Dogs can always sense when we’re not feeling our best and try their best to make us feel better. Our guest, Dr. Renee Alsarraf, explains the many ways in which dogs benefit our lives through unconditional love and support.
She shares her personal story on how she went from treating dogs with cancer to being diagnosed with cancer herself and how her own dog helped her through this difficult time in her life.
This experience inspired her to write her book Sit, Stay, Heal: What Dogs Can Teach Us About Living Well which features lessons she learned from her research and stories of the remarkable dogs she treated and their families.
Guest:
Dr. Renee Alsarraf
- Veterinary Oncologist
- Author, Sit, Stay, Heal: What Dogs Can Teach Us About Living Well
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Former NFL player Jonathan R. Scott teamed up with financial expert Rob Welsh for the book The Winning Playbook: Strategies for Life on and off the Field. The co-authors join us to share financial advice for athletes and for all of us, on how to invest for a more financially-sound future.
Then, we take a trip back to the 70’s and 80’s with the First Ladies of Disco. Martha Wash, Linda Clifford and Norma Jean Wright share details on their amazing careers singing some of the most iconic hit songs of the era, such as “It’s Raining Men”, “Runaway Love”, and “Dance, Dance, Dance”.
Catch the First Ladies of Disco Retro Music Box Tour at the Hobby Center in Houston on October 29, 2022. For more information, click here.
Guests:
Martha Wash
- 2 X Grammy Nominee/Celebrity Spokesperson/Performer/Actress
Linda Clifford
- R&B Soul Legend
Norma Jean Wright
- Formerly of Chic
Jonathan R. Scott
- Former NFL Player & Author, The Winning Playbook: Strategies for Life On and Off the Field
Rob Welsh
- Financial Expert & Author, The Winning Playbook: Strategies for Life On and Off the Field
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Metropolitan police officer Michael Fanone self-deployed to the Capitol on January 6, 2021, where he and fellow officers tried to hold back the insurrectionists who stormed the Capitol Building. While working to hold back the rioters, he was brutally attacked with a taser and beaten. He suffered a heart attack and a traumatic brain injury from that attack.
He discusses what happened to him that day in the book Hold the Line: The Insurrection and One Cop’s Battle for America’s Soul. The book also presents a call to action for us to preserve our democracy in the aftermath of this insurrection.
Guest:
Michael Fanone
- Former D.C. Metropolitan Police Officer
- Author, Hold the Line: The Insurrection and One Cop’s Battle for America’s Soul
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For a month now, protests have raged on in Iran following the brutal death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini by the morality police for allegedly failing to meet the requirements of the country’s strict dress code laws.
Since 1979, Iranian women have been forced to wear a hijab in accordance with the Islamic dress code. However, following Amini’s death, many women have removed their hijabs in protest of the Iranian government and to honor her memory.
We’ll be discussing the current situation in Iran with our panel of experts to bring awareness to these protests and to help our listeners better understand the historical and cultural factors that play into the country’s strict laws.
Guests:
Dr. Pardis Mahdavi
- Provost and Executive Vice President at the University of Montana
Dr. Emran El-Badawi
- Program Director and Associate Professor of Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Houston
Dr. Ali Dizboni
- Associate Professor at the Department of Political Science at the Royal Military College of Canada
Arash Irandousti
- Persian Society of the University of Houston
Celeste Schurman
- 88.7 Houston Public Media News Reporter
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The January 6th Committee presented new evidence at the final hearing that proved former President Donald Trump knew he lost the election and conspired to overturn the election results.
However, even with this new evidence, will the minds be swayed of so many Trump supporters who still believe the election was stolen? What is the current state of our democracy when a leader insights a riot after they have lost an election?
We'll be joined by Harris County's former Elections Administrator and a professor of political science to help us analyze the evidence and determine where we go from here as a country for future elections.
Guests:
Isabel Longoria
- Former Elections Administrator for Harris County, Texas
James Lindley Wilson
- Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of Chicago
- Author of Democratic Equality
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Netflix’s Dahmer is becoming one of the most viewed series in the platform’s history, however, despite its popularity there has been many criticisms and discussions over its exploitative nature.
To help discern what the series got right and wrong, the journalist who broke the story of the Dahmer murders back in 1991, Anne E. Schwartz, shares her unique point of view.
Also, Rita Isbell, sister of Dahmer victim Errol Lindsey, takes us back to 1992 and the sentencing phase of the Dahmer trial, where she captured the nation’s attention with her explosive statement, “…Jeffrey, I hate you…”
Guests:
Anne E. Schwartz
- Author, Monster: The True Story of the Jeffrey Dahmer Murders
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Psychologist, Director of the Center for Violence Prevention at UTMB
Rita Isbell
- Sister of Errol Lindsey
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For more than thirty years, October 11th has been National Coming Out, a day to support the LGBTQ+ community and embrace the coming out of their true selves.
We’re joined by a licensed clinical psychologist who will offer tips and advice on coming out and guidance for supporting someone who has come out.
We’re also joined by the two professional baseball figures who will share their personal experiences coming out and being openly gay in professional sports. Plus, how they are making it easier for other athletes.
Billy Bean is the only openly gay Major League Baseball player alive today. In his current role with Major League Baseball, he works hard to support and sustain a diverse and inclusive culture in the major leagues. For more information on what they are doing in the organization, click here.
Bryan Ruby is an active and out professional baseball player who is on a mission to help young LGBTQ+ athletes. His Proud To Be In Baseball organization provides resources and educational opportunities for these athletes and connects people in the community.
Guests:
Dr. Tyson Reuter
- Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Psychology Houston
Billy Bean
- Senior Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion,
- Special Assistant to the Commissioner for Major League Baseball
- Author, “Going The Other Way”
Bryan Ruby
- World’s First Active Out Professional Baseball Player
- Country Music Singer/Songwriter
- Founder, “Proud To Be In Baseball”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In honor of National Hispanic Heritage month, we recognize the ways in which Hispanic Americans have benefitted the country.
We’re joined by a U.S. Congressman who will share with us his experience as a Hispanic American in politics and his thoughts on the Hispanic American community.
We’re also joined by a panel of guests who will educate our listeners on the contributions that Hispanic Americans have provided to the United States, diminish stereotypes, and discuss the influence on American pop culture.
For more information on ALMAAHH, Advocates of a Latino Museum of Cultural and Visual Arts & Archive Complex in Houston, Harris County, click here.
Guests:
Rep. Joaquin Castro
- S. House of Representatives, District 20 in Texas
Ana Maria Martinez
- Grammy Award Winner
- International Opera Singer (Soprano)
Dr. Daniel Perez Liston
- Assistant Professor of Finance, Marilyn Davies College of Business, University of Houston-Downtown
Dr. Clara Rodriguez
- Professor and Associate Chair, Department of Sociology & Anthropology, Fordham University at Lincoln Center
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
For more than five decades, the Original Greek Festival has become one of the most well-known festivals in the Houston area. It celebrates the many different facets of Greek culture such as the cuisine, faith, and music and serves as a fundraiser for the church and Houston community.
Live at Houston’s Original Greek Festival, at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral, our guests explore the history of the Greek Orthodox faith, the Greek-American experience, culture and stories behind many traditional Greek dishes and desserts.
The Original Greek Festival Houston runs October 6-8, 2022 at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral. For more information, click here.
Galveston’s Greek Festival takes place the following week, October 15 – 16, 2022, at Assumption of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church. For more information, click here.
Guests:
Rev. Fr. Efstratios Magoulias
- Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Houston, TX
Rev. Fr. Stelios Sitaras
- Assumption of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, Galveston, TX
Dana Kantalis
- Board Member, The Original Greek Festival
Donna Doxakis
- Board Member, The Original Greek Festival
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
He is best known for his contributions to the Star Trek franchise, our guest is famous film and television actor, musician, and author William Shatner.
He discusses his new book, Boldly Go: Reflections on a Life of Awe and Wonder, which features a collection of essays detailing reflections from his life, his views on the interconnectivity of life, and his trip to space last year where he became the oldest space traveler ever.
Guests:
William Shatner
- Award-winning Actor, Director, Producer & Musician
- New York Times Best Selling Author
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Famed ballet dancer, Lauren Anderson, joins us to discuss with us her early dancing career, how she became the first African American woman to be promoted to a principal dancer in the Houston Ballet, and the impact she’s had on the Houston arts community.
Lauren also discusses the upcoming Stages production, Plumshuga: The Rise of Lauren Anderson, which details her early life, her struggles with addiction, and the road to her recovery all set to music and dance.
Plumshuga: The Rise of Lauren Anderson is playing from October 7 - November 13, 2022, at Stages in Houston. For more information, click here.
Guests:
Lauren Anderson
- First Black Principal Dancer, Houston Ballet
- Associate Director, Education & Community Engagement, Houston Ballet
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM,* listen online or subscribe to the podcast*. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677,* questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk*.
The Tony Award-winning musical, Hadestown, is a retelling of the ancient Greek myth of the tragedy of Orpheus and Eurydice put in a Great Depression-era inspired setting.
Our special guest is legendary Broadway actor André De Shields who originated the role of Hermes in the Original Broadway production of Hadestown. De Shields won his first Tony Award for this role at the age of 73.
We also talk with Hannah Whitley, who makes her national tour debut in Hadestown as Eurydice. Plus, we discuss the Greek mythology behind the celebrated musical.
Hadestown is at The Hobby Center in Houston October 4-9, 2022. For more information, click here.
Guests:
Andre De Shields
- Tony, Emmy, and Grammy Award-winner
- Actor, Singer, Dancer, Director, and Choreographer
Hannah Whitley
- Actress, Singer, and Dancer
Dr. Janet Lowery
- Professor of English, University of St. Thomas
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
According to Prevent Cancer Foundation, one-third of Americans missed their routine cancer screenings due to the pandemic.
Our experts say now is the time to get back in to see your doctor for your mammogram. Survival is possible if caught early. We discussed what you need to know about breast cancer, from the different types, advancement in screening, and treatment options. Plus, a breast cancer survivor shares her story in hopes of helping others.
Additionally, we have an expert to analyze last week’s debate for the Texas Governor’s race.
Guests:
Brandon Rottinghaus
- Professor of Political Science, University of Houston
Co-host, Houston Public Media’s “Party Politics” podcast
Darius Tahir
- Tech Correspondent, Kaiser Health News
Dr. Claudia Cotes
- Chief of Breast Imaging, Memorial Hermann Health System
Assistant Professor, McGovern Medical School, UT Health Houston
Yola Prejean
- Breast Cancer Survivor
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
There’s so much to see and do in the great state of Texas. Chances are, there are spots you may have overlooked or destinations you didn’t know existed.
Chet Garner, host of PBS program The Daytripper, shares ideas on impressive places to travel for a fun day trip, or weekend getaway in Texas.
He also shares his favorite daytrip destinations from our home city of Houston for those of you looking to stay close to home.
The Daytripper airs on Houston Public Media TV 8 Saturdays at 3:30pm CT. You can also stream episodes on PBS Passport.
Guest:
Chet Garner
- Creator, Executive Producer & Host, The Daytripper
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
When the trailer for the live-action remake of Disney’s The Little Mermaid was released online, outrage was sparked by individuals upset over the casting of a black actress as Ariel.
Many others celebrated the casting, as it could inspire young black girls seeing a beloved character like Ariel, played by someone who looks like them.
Joining us to discuss the controversy over the casting and her thoughts on diversity in the arts is someone who understands what Halle Bailey is going through. Delphi Borich is Japanese American, and played Ariel in the recent Theater Under the Stars stage production of The Little Mermaid.
We also talk with media experts who offer their perspectives on representation and creating more opportunities for underrepresented groups in media and pop culture.
Guests:
Delphi Borich
- Broadway Actress
Dr. Ninochka McTaggart
- Sociologist
Diversity and Inclusion Specialist
Former Director of Research & Outreach, Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media
Author, White Privilege: The Persistence of Racial Hierarchy in a Culture Of Denial
Dr. Tyrone D. Dixon
- Film Producer & Director
Media Psychologist
Professor, Texas Southern University
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Comedian Tom Papa, known for his podcast “Breaking Bread” and his most recent Netflix special “You’re Doing Great!”, talks with us about his career as a comedian, being mentored by Jerry Seinfeld, and his process of crafting a joke.
Join Tom for “An Evening with Tom Papa,” on October 7, 2022, at 7:30pm CT at the Cullen Theater, Wortham Center in Houston. For more information on this Performing Arts Houston production, click here.
We also talk with Toy Industry Hall of Famer, Jeffrey Breslow, who developed of so many classic toys and board games such as Ants in the Pants, Uno Attack!, Operation, Simon, Guesstures, and many more. He discusses his new memoir, “A Game Maker’s Life,” which details his career and gives insight on the toy industry.
Guests:
Tom Papa
Comedian, Actor, Producer, Writer
Jeffrey Breslow
Toy & Game Inventor
Author, “A Game Maker’s Life”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In the 1940’s, psychologists Kenneth and Mamie Clark conducted a series of experiments where they had identical dolls, different only in color, and asked black children which color of doll they preferred. They found that two-thirds of the children preferred the white doll to one of their own race.
The Clarks concluded that the racism found in American institutions affects the sense of self in African American children. Their findings proved to be instrumental in the famous Supreme Court Brown v. Board of Education decision to remove racial segregation in American schools.
The story of the doll test and the Clarks is detailed in the new book "What the Children Told Us". We talk with the author who gives us more insight on this time in history and what other doll tests have shown in later years.
Tim Spofford
- Author, “What The Children Told Us”
Richelle Whittaker
- Educational Psychologist
- Founder, Providential Counseling and Consulting Services
- Founder, Next Steps Educational Counseling
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
We’re live at Xochi in Downtown Houston where we’ll celebrate the rich culture of various Latin American countries thorough their culinary delights.
We’ll be joined by our panel of Houston-based chefs and culinary experts who will bring with them a sample of a dish they prepared and then discuss the food culture of each of their respective countries.
Guests:
Marco Torres
- Taco Journalist, Houston Chronicle
Hugo Ortega
- Executive chef/owner of H Town Restaurant Group
Masaru Fukuda
- Chef/owner Pacha Nikkei
Angel Lajara
- Chef/owner of Tex-Chick Restaurant
Flor Mansilla
- Chef/owner of La Argentina
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Forty years ago, a surge of banned books led to the creation of Banned Books Week, and now with a rise in challenged books across the country, is history repeating itself?
In recent news, Texas has become the state with the most banned books in the entire country after a series of bans in several school districts.
With these events, Banned Books Week couldn’t have come at a more appropriate time, with it’s theme this year being “Books Unite Us, Censorship Divides Us.”
Our panel of guests discuss the history of banning books, the motivations behind bans and how they’ve shifted over the years, and the impact it has on our society.
Guests:
Andrew Albanese
- Senior Writer for Publishers Weekly
Deborah Caldwell-Stone
- Director of the American Library Association's Office of Intellectual Freedom
Amber Seely
- Division Director of Collections and Technical Services at Harris County Public Library
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced he is sending more troops into Ukraine. We talk with an expert on international relations and American national security policy on this latest news, the status of Ukraine, and Putin’s recent threats on the use of nuclear weapons.
On the lighter side, the topic of today’s show is the performing arts. Our guests Deborah Hope and Joel Sandel discuss the importance and cultural significance of theater, the thriving arts scene in Houston, and have a look at the shows audiences must see.
Catch our guests performing in the cabaret show Act III at the Ovations night club on September, 26th at 7:00pm, admission is free but reservation is required. For reservations email: michaelblaketapley@gmail.com
The Tony-Award-winning musical Ain’t Misbehavin’ is currently playing at the Hobby Center until Sunday, October 2nd. The musical is a celebration of the music of Fats Waller and the Harlem Renaissance and is a production by Theater Under the Stars. We talked with the production’s assistant director.
Also, Houston Public Media producer and announcer,Brenda Valdivia, joins us with "Town Share", our weekly segment where we share your e-mails, social media posts, and messages.
Guests:
Dr. Richard Stoll
- Albert Thomas Professor of Political Science at Rice University
Aaron Brown
- Assistant Director, "Ain't Misbehavin'" Theater Under the Stars
Deborah Hope
- Local Professional Actress
- Co-Host, “Car Takes”
Joel Sandel
- Local Professional Actor
- Co-Host, “Car Takes”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
September 20 is National Voter Registration Day. A representative from the Harris County Elections Administration explains how you can register to vote. The deadline to register is October 11, 2022, for the November 8 election. For more information on how to register or update your registration, visit HarrisVotes.com, or VoteTexas.org.
With just seven weeks until the election, we discuss the current issues and hot topics circulating around American politics. Guests from both sides of the political divide join us with their viewpoints on the issues, including abortion, immigration, the economy, gun control and voting security.
Guests:
D.J. YbarraDeputy Director of Voter Registration Outreach, Harris County Elections Administration
Sen. Paul BettencourtTexas State Senator, District 7
Dallas JonesPresident/CEO, Elite Change
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
September 8th, 2022, Britain’s long-standing monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, passed away at the age of 96. She reigned for seventy years as the Queen, longer than any monarch in British history.
Today, September 19th, 2022, a state funeral took place at Westminster Abbey as the Royal Family, world leaders, and thousands of mourners gathered to pay their respects to the late monarch.
Our panel of guests discuss their thoughts and feelings on the day’s events, the legacy she leaves behind, and the reaction from people all around the world mourning her passing.
Guests:
Helen Mann
- Former British Vice Consul at the British Consulate General in Houston
- Former panelist on Houston Public Media’s hugely popular Downtown Abbey after show “Manor of Speaking”
James Crawford-Smith
- Royal Reporter, Newsweek
Dr. Aysha Pollnitz
- Associate Professor of History, Rice University
Karen Peterson
- Former president, Daughters of the British Empire Texas
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Many of us think we know and understand what happened during the Holocaust, but do we really understand how the United States responded?
This is the subject of a new PBS documentary by acclaimed filmmaker Ken Burns. The U.S. and the Holocaust details the events that led to the Holocaust and how America closed its borders to thousands of Jews who sought refuge in the United States during this time. The film also explores whether America, a “nation of immigrants”, really lives up to the ideals it claims.
The three-part, six-hour series, The U.S. and the Holocaust premieres Sunday, September 18, 2022, on Houston Public Media TV-8 at 7pm CT. Episode two airs Tuesday, September 20, 2022, at 7pm CT and episode three airs Wednesday, September 21, 2022 at 7pm CT. It also airs on PBS.org and PBS Passport.
Dr. Rebecca Erbelding, historian from the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, and featured in the film, offers her insight on the Holocaust and how important it is to keep history alive.
Sharing her first-hand account of her experience is Ruth Steinfeld, a Holocaust survivor. She shares the hardships and prejudice she faced as a child, and how she uses her story to educate people on why it’s so important to stop something like the Holocaust from happening again.
Laurie Garcia, from the Houston Holocaust Museum, discusses the museums role in educating the public about the Holocaust.
Guests:
Ken Burns
- Documentary Filmmaker
Dr. Rebecca Erbelding
- Historian, U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum
Author, “Rescue Board”
Ruth Steinfeld
- Holocaust Survivor
Laurie Garcia
- Senior Associate Director of Education
Houston Holocaust Museum
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast* here, on iTunes, and other apps.***
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Having written more than two hundred novels, James Patterson is known as the "king of bestsellers", holding the record for the most number one New York Times best sellers by a single author.
He is best known for his famous book series’ Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Michael Bennet, Maximum Ride, and many more. Patterson shares stories on his early career, interesting details of some of his recent books, and the inspiration behind his new thriller Blowback.
On the topic of books, fiction reviews editor David Varno of Publishers Weekly talks about why he believes James Patterson has been so successful and shares his list of book recommendations for fall.
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg also joins us to talk about his recent visit to Houston inspecting our city’s infrastructure. Sec. Buttigieg discusses the amount of funding that will be used to improve the conditions of our freeways, airports, and public transportation.
Guests:
James Patterson
- World's Best-selling Author
Author, Blowback
Pete Buttigieg
- U.S. Secretary of Transportation
David Varno
- Fiction Reviews Editor
Publishers Weekly
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
With the overturning of Roe v. Wade, many were quick to suggest adoption as an alternative to abortion. However, the adoption process is a much more timely and costly process than most people are aware of.
Today, we discuss the topic of adoption, what people can expect from this process, and the many different challenges and details of adoption not always talked about.
Arnold Valdez, Vice President of Foster Care and Residential Services at DePelchin Children’s Center, shared their mission of strengthening the lives of children by enhancing their mental health and physical well-being. They are a non-profit adoption agency that provides a variety of services, including foster care and adoption programs, support services for families, counseling and parenting programs, and residential programs for youth.
Family law and adoption attorney Rodney Jones explains that adoption is a legal process. The biological rights of both parents have to be terminated before a child is eligible for adoption. Jones offered his expertise answering a variety of questions regarding the legalities of adoption. He also has experience representing children in the CPS system and shared how rewarding it is to help lead them to a forever home.
Joy Sewing always knew she wanted to adopt. She wanted to provide a home and loving environment for a child in need. Today, Sewing is in the process of adopting two young children, after fostering for three years. She shares her story, along with the challenges she has faced during the process, and how rewarding it is to see how much the children have grown.
As a foster and adoptive mom, Kristin Finan, saw foster children arrive at her doorstep with nothing but the clothes on their back. She knew they needed more, and co-founded Carrying Hope. Carrying Hope is a non-profit organization that creates “Hope Packs,” backpacks filled with everything a child needs for their first couple days in a new home.
Guests:
Arnold Valdez
- Vice President of Foster Care and Residential Services, DePelchin Children’s Center
Rodney Jones
- Attorney, The Rodney Jones Law Group
Joy Sewing
- In the process of adopting 2 children
Kristin Finan
- Co-Founder, President, and CEO, Carrying Hope
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
One in four people will experience mental illness at some point during their lifetime, but are often undiagnosed. We lost almost 46,000 people in the U.S. to suicide in 2020, which is nearly double the number of deaths by homicide.
September is Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide is a hard subject to discuss, but it’s important to create an open space to talk about it in order to understand, and help, those who are struggling.
Award-winning documentary filmmaker Andrea Kalin shares the story of the Twomey family and their journey of dealing with loss and grief after their son, C-J, died by suicide. By inviting strangers to help scatter C-J’s ashes around the world, a global community formed. This story is featured in the documentary Scattering CJ.
Scattering CJ airs on Houston Public Media TV 8 Tuesday, September 13, 2022, at 9:30pm CT, and streaming anytime on PBS Passport.
We also talk with psychologists Dr. Doreen Marshall and Dr. Rheeda Walker on mental health, suicide and prevention, and how we can help those who might be struggling.
If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide or needs help, call the National Suicide and Crisis Hotline at 988 or log on to 988lifeline.org.
Guests:
Andrea Kalin
- Award-winning documentary filmmaker
Founder of Spark Media
Director, Producer and writer of Scattering CJ
Dr. Doreen Marshall
- Psychologist
Vice President of Mission Engagement, American Foundation For Suicide Prevention
Dr. Rheeda Walker
- Professor of Psychology, University Of Houston
Author, The Unapologetic Guide To Black Mental Health
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Queen Elizabeth II passed away on September 8, 2022, after a 70-year reign as Queen. She’s the longest-serving monarch in British history, and the second longest-reigning sovereign in world history. For many British citizens and people around the world, she was the only British monarch that had ruled in their lifetimes.
After living through many significant historical events, the Queen leaves behind an impressive legacy, from her coronation in 1952, to the appointment of Britain’s first female Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, and to her Platinum Jubilee earlier this year commemorating the seventieth anniversary of her accession as the Queen.
Reflecting on some of these moments, we talk with the Former British Vice Consul at the British Consulate General in Houston, Helen Mann, and Rice University Associate Professor of History, Dr. Aysha Pollnitz. Also, what does Queen Elizabeth’s death mean for the British monarchy and Commonwealth going forward, and what we can expect from her successor, King Charles III.
Guests:
Helen Mann
- Former British Vice Consul at the British Consulate General in Houston
- Former Panelist on Houston Public Media’s Downton Abbey after show “Manor of Speaking”
Dr. Aysha Pollnitz
- Associate Professor of History
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Never forget.
Twenty-one years later, the scars left by the events of September 11, 2001, are still fresh for many Americans who tragically lost their loved ones during the attacks.
Many, like artist Nicola McClean, remember where she was that tragic day as she witnessed the attack on the World Trade Center. As a photographer living in New York City at the time, she grabbed her camera, headed downtown, and captured what she could on film. She wasn’t prepared for the devastation, but told herself in that moment, that through these images, this would never be forgotten.
Her experiences from that tragic day inspired Nicola to create the Ground Zero 360 “Remembrance” exhibition, which features photographs, artwork made from materials recovered from the Twin Towers, missing person posters, and personal artifacts from police officers and firefighters who lost their lives that tragic day. The exhibit also features the work of over 60 artists from all over the world as they reflected on their feelings of the 9/11 attacks.
In this episode, live on location at the exhibit, hear from the curator and co-founder of the Ground Zero 360 exhibition, retired NYPD Inspector Paul McCormack. He shares his experience working as an NYPD commanding officer on that day, working to locate survivors at Ground Zero with other first responders, and the inspiration he found from fellow Americans banding together in the wake of such a tragedy.
We also talk to family members who lost loved ones on that day and how they are honoring their memories. Plus, we talk with a participating artist on why it was so important for him to be a part of this exhibit.
Ground Zero 360 “Remembrance” runs September 12, 2022, through January 31, 2023 at Houston Baptist University Art Museum and Galleries. It is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays.
Guests:
Paul McCormackRetired NYPD Inspector
Curator, Executive Producer & Co-Founder, Ground Zero 360
Michael Roque CollinsArtist
Senior Director of Visual Arts Department, Houston Baptist University
Senior Artist-In-Residence, Painting
Jim Smith
Lost his wife, NYPD Officer Moira Smith
Patrick Jackson
Lost His Brother-In-Law, FDNY Firefighter Kevin O’Rourke
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
From his first directing credit on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, to becoming an in-house director for Taxi, co-creating the iconic Cheers, and directing shows like Friends, Frasier, and the groundbreaking Will and Grace, James Burrows has, no doubt, made an enormous impact on television history. He's directed more than 75 pilots and reached the milestone of directing 1,050 television episodes, an achievement no other director in history holds.
His memoir, Directed by James Burrows, dives into his long career from his beginnings as a television director, interesting details on the creation of these shows, and never-revealed stories behind the casting of many of these famous programs that have made us laugh for over fifty years.
Guest:
James Burrows
• Legendary TV director and author of Directed by James Burrows
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
We all go through hard times in life, and often, it’s those who love us, who hurt us. Sometimes that level of hurt can lead to trauma, especially for those who endure an abusive childhood.
At the hands of her father, Lisa Nikolidakis had been through a lot. Then, in a story that made national headlines in 2003, her world was turned upside down even more, when Lisa’s father murdered his girlfriend and her teenage daughter, and then turned the gun on himself.
How was Lisa and her family going to deal with the impact of this traumatic event?
She shares that in her powerful new memoir, No One Crosses The Wolf.
September is National Suicide Prevention Month. If you or someone you know is in crisis or contemplating suicide, call 988, or log on to 988Lifeline.org
Guests:
Lisa Nikolidakis
• Author, No One Crosses The Wolf
Dr. Jeff Temple
• Vice Dean for Research and Scholarship, School of Nursing
John Sealy Distinguished Chair in Community Health
Director, Center for Violence Prevention
UTMB Health
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
We kick off a brand new season of Town Square with Ernie Manouse covering a broad range of topics: health and wellness, education, and politics.
We start the discussion with the latest on COVID, new boosters targeting the omicron variant, monkeypox, and preparation for the flu season. Plus, what do parents need to know to keep their kids healthy this school year.
Now that school is in session, we discuss the challenges facing teachers, including school safety, censorship of books and the new “In God We Trust” law in Texas.
We also examined the appointment of an independent special master to look over the documents seized by the FBI at President Trump’s estate, Mar-a-Lago.
Guests:
Dr. Michael Chang
• Pediatric Infectious Disease Specialist, UTHealth Houston and Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital
Zeph Capo
• President, Texas American Federation of Teachers
Dr. Frank Sorrentino
• Professor Emeritus at St. Francis College
Author, Presidential Power and the American Political System
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
As the owner of Pet Method, veterinarian and social media sensation, Dr. Hunter Finn, sees all types of canines and felines, providing services like primary care, urgent care, preventive care, veterinary acupuncture, virtual appointments, surgical procedures, and dental cleanings.
Now with 2 million followers on TikTok and nearly 500,000 on Instagram, Dr. Finn became “America’s Favorite Veterinarian” during the pandemic by posting videos, sharing advice for quarantined pet owners, and showing off his dance moves. That’s when he realized he could help more animals than he could physically see at his hospital.
Today, we talk with Dr. Finn about how to keep your pets healthy and happy. Plus, he answers questions from our listeners on what to do if you notice your dog or cat behaving differently, what antibiotics and ointments to use on cats, choosing the right pet food to fit your pet’s active lifestyle, and what to do when your cat or dog is sick.
Also, Houston Public Media producer and announcer, Brenda Valdivia, is here with “Town Share”, our weekly segment where we share your e-mails, social media posts, and messages.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Now that the CDC has revised its COVID-19 guidance to help the public better protect themselves and understand their risk, there’s still concern for what this means for the health and safety of kids as school begins. School medical officials ensure there are ways schools and students can prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Wellness visits and up-to-date immunizations are also important for our kids as they head back to school. Many children missed these necessary check-ups during the pandemic.
Today, we talk with experts from the National Association of School Nurses, UTHealth Houston, along with authorities from the Galveston County Health District and the Houston Health Department on what they’re doing to keep students safe, healthy, and stopping the spread of major diseases.
Also, we take calls from our listeners to address questions and concerns when it comes to sending kids back to school.
Guests:
Dr. Phillip Keiser
- Galveston County Local Health Authority and CEO of the Galveston County Health District
- Professor of Medicine at University of Texas Medical Branch
Dr. Janeana White
- Deputy Local Health Authority for the Houston Health Department
Donna Mazyck
- Registered Nurse
- Executive Director of the National Association of School Nurses
Dr. Luis Ostrosky
- Chief of Infectious Diseases, UT Health Houston and Memorial Hermann Hospital
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
On August 25, 2017, Hurricane Harvey roared into the Texas coast as a Category 4 hurricane and then turned into a catastrophic flooding disaster for Houston and other parts of the state's coastline. It hit the Houston area – bringing with it the highest sustained winds at 130 miles per hour and almost 50 inches of rain.
Five years later, what do we remember about the storm and the aftermath?
Are we better prepared the next time a historic hurricane hits Houston and Harris County?
In talking with two former Harris County leaders, we discuss the challenges that were faced, the lessons learned, and the importance of being transparent when communicating with the public.
But how do weather and disaster relief organizations get the necessary information out, but also keep their involvement structured during chaos?
To answer that question, we hear from two local heroes who delivered meals throughout Southeast Texas to those who were displaced, first responders, and the National Guard.
Also, we take calls from listeners to share what they remember most about weathering Hurricane Harvey and their personal stories.
Guests:
Ed Emmett
- Fellow in Energy and Transportation Policy Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy
- Serve as Harris County Judge during Hurricane Harvey
Francisco Sanchez
- Associate Administrator, Small Business Administration Office of Disaster Assistance
- Served as Harris County Office of Emergency Management Public Information Office during Hurricane Harvey
Jonathan Beitler
- Director of Communications and Special Events Orange Show Center for Visionary Art
Melissa Holder
- Business Owner and former restaurant manager
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Mean Girls the musical hits the stage in Houston. The show features a book by nine-time Emmy Award winner Tina Fey, music by three-time Emmy Award winner Jeff Richmond, and lyrics by two-time Tony Award nominee Nell Benjamin. Tony Award winner Casey Nicholaw directs and choreographs.
Cast member April Josephine, who plays Mrs. Heron, Ms. Norbury, and Mrs. George, talks with us about her experience touring with this production, the nuance of her roles, and what audiences can expect.
Josephine is not only an actress, but also works as an arts educator. She shares why the arts and theatre is so important in providing an open, safe space for students to discuss hard topics.
Also, as students head back to school, we talk with a school psychologist, about “mean girl” behavior, what causes it, and how we can prevent it. Plus, what parents, students, and school staff can do about bullying, and cyberbullying.
If you or someone you know is being bullied, contemplating suicide, or in crisis, call 988, or log on to 988LifeLine.org.
“Mean Girls”, the musical comedy based on the hit film, runs August 17 – 21, 2022, at the Hobby Center in Houston. For more information, log on to www.TheHobbyCenter.org.
Please note, the Tuesday, August 16, 2022, performance of “Mean Girls” has been rescheduled due to unforeseen technical difficulties. Tickets for the August 16, 2022, performance, are now valid for a newly added performance on Friday, August 19, 2022, at 2:00pm CT. Ticketholders unable to attend the new performance should check their e-mail or reach out to their original point of purchase for further options.
Guests:
April Josephine
- Actress in 'Mean Girls' (Mrs. Heron/Ms. Norbury/Mrs. George)
Dr. Laurie McGarry Klose
- School Psychologist, Owner of educational consulting firm RespectED, and Immediate Past President of the
National Association of School Psychologists
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In this episode of Town Square, we focus on grief and healing, as we continue to learn what really happened during the Uvalde Elementary school mass shooting.
Although, parents of the victims are trying to handle everything with dignity, they are are still angry and don't understand how the police could have not had a plan to act sooner.
If the police would have acted sooner, would there have been a much better outcome?
We speak to Alfred Garza III, a parent who lost his 10-year-old daughter in the shooting, and describes what it was like when police arrived on the scene.
Also, we talk to local and Texas state government officials about how important it is to keep discussing the issue of accountability in Texas. Why does it seem that the state can't get the simplest information put out to the public on what really happened that day on May 24 at Robb Elementary School?
What's clear is that there's a need to focus on mental health and gun control at the same time, not separately.
Is there hope for a national ban on assault weapons and better background checks?
Our experts join us for a better understanding of where we are at understanding Uvalde.
Guests:
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Vice Dean for Research at UTMB’s School of Nursing
- John Sealy Distinguished Chair in Community Health
- Director of The Center for Violence Prevention, University of Texas Medical Branch
Brian Lopez
- Public Education Reporter, The Texas Tribune
Alfred Garza III
- Father to Amerie Jo Garza, Robb Elementary School shooting victim
Democratic Texas State Senator Roland Gutierrez
- Representing TX District 19
Democratic Representative Al Green
- U.S. Congressman, representing Texas’ 9th Congressional District
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In this episode of Town Square, we focus on grief and healing, as we continue to learn what really happened during the Uvalde Elementary school mass shooting.
Although, parents of the victims are trying to handle everything with dignity, they are are still angry and don't understand how the police could have not had a plan to act sooner.
If the police would have acted sooner, would there have been a much better outcome?
We speak to Alfred Garza III, a parent who lost his 10-year-old daughter in the shooting, and describes what it was like when police arrived on the scene.
Also, we talk to local and Texas state government officials about how important it is to keep discussing the issue of accountability in Texas. Why does it seem that the state can't get the simplest information put out to the public on what really happened that day on May 24 at Robb Elementary School?
What's clear is that there's a need to focus on mental health and gun control at the same time, not separately.
Is there hope for a national ban on assault weapons and better background checks?
Our experts join us for a better understanding of where we are in understanding what happened in Uvalde.
Guests:
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Vice Dean for Research at UTMB’s School of Nursing
- John Sealy Distinguished Chair in Community Health
- Director of The Center for Violence Prevention, University of Texas Medical Branch
Brian Lopez
- Public Education Reporter, The Texas Tribune
Alfred Garza III
- Father to Amerie Jo Garza, Robb Elementary School shooting victim
Democratic Texas State Senator Roland Gutierrez
- Representing TX District 19
Democratic Representative Al Green
- U.S. Congressman, representing Texas’ 9th Congressional District
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Those who have seen Sharon Gless act in Cagney & Lacey, Queer as Folk, *Burn Notice, and countless other shows and movies, know that she’s someone who gives every role her all. In that very same fashion, she opens up completely in Apparently There Were Complaints*, (Simon & Schuster, 2021), a hilarious, deeply personal memoir that talks about her 50-year career in Hollywood.
Some may also remember Gless and her Cagney & Lacey co-star Tyne Daly for their 1999 special performance of You're Nothing Without Me from the musical comedy, City of Angels.
In this episode of Town Square, Gless, a two-time Emmy and two-time Golden Globe Award winner, shares a relatable, heart-felt understanding of how some of her iconic roles have left a lasting impression on society and American culture — giving our audience a behind-the-scenes glimpse into her life on and off camera.
Also, we hear from fans that say her role as policewoman Christine Cagney in the television series Cagney & Lacey (1981-1988) was a perfect display of women working in a male-dominated environment, but who were relatable as real women.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The mission of actor Sean Penn’s Community Organized Relief Effort (CORE) non-profit organization is to build systems that better prepare communities for crisis and prevent the effects of devastation on the most vulnerable populations.
CORE wants to ensure the work they do has a long-lasting impact in disaster areas both here and abroad.
When crisis happens in Ukraine and other areas of the globe, how do humanitarian organizations like CORE get aid to people who need it most?
How do groups get into a country if there’s fighting?
It takes work and a bit of negotiation with government entities.
Today, we talk to CORE’s co-founder and CEO about the organization’s current work and how we all can help. Also, a political expert explains how government and humanitarian groups work together.
Guests:
Ann Lee
- Co-Founder and CEO of CORE
Dr. Richard Stoll, Ph.D.
- Rice Faculty Scholar at the Baker Institute for Public Polity Albert Thomas Professor of Political Science, Rice University
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Combining stories from her life, Emmy Award-winning journalist and New York Times bestselling author of Once I Was You, Maria Hinojosa, talked with us about her life growing up as an immigrant in America. The adapted version of the book for young readers, Once I Was You: Finding My Voice and Passing the Mic will be released August 30, 2022.
In our conversation with Hinojosa, the Pulitzer Prize-winning host of Latino USA shares why she decided to re-craft her memoir for children, what she thinks about immigration issues at the southern border, and why we need to find some commonality to save our democracy.
"There’s no threat to the US with immigrants coming from the border. We need to reframe the conversation", says Hinojosa.
As a journalist, what does she think about the importance of diversity in the newsroom and reporting?
Plus, what is the distinction between the terms Latin-X, Latino and Hispanic?
Host Ernie Manouse discusses all of this and more with Hinojosa and takes calls from our listeners.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
What was the actual motivation behind the FBI’s search of former President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida Monday?
What are the next steps after the FBI raid?
The answers to these questions remain to be discovered, especially since this is the first time in history that federal agents have had to search a previous President's home under an investigation into potentially classified documents being stored at their private residence.
The situation also brings up discussion on what types of classified documents should not have left the White House. Plus, how will this play out politically?
Our legal and political experts break down the latest details, along with thoughts and reactions from our listeners.
Guests:
The Honorable Vanessa Gilmore
- Retired Judge for the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas
Brandon Rottinghaus
- Professor, Department of Political Science University of Houston and co-host of the Houston Public Media podcast “Party Politics”
Danny Cevallos
- Criminal Defense Attorney and Legal Analyst
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The world of social media influencers has become a phenomenon. But many still wonder what it really means to be an influencer and what the steps are to becoming one.
While some of us mainly use social media as a tool to just connect with family and friends, there are also ways to make lots of money.
But what's the difference between a mega influencer, nano influencer, and micro-influencer?
Our guests today not only talk about how they each became social media influencers and what it means to be one, they also talk about how it gave them confidence to pursue their passions, while influencing others to do the same.
We also talk with a marketing expert about how social media influencers affect the buying impact on consumers — shaping trends and purchase patterns.
Guests:
Dr. Jenna Drenten
- Associate Professor of Marketing, Quinlan School of Business at Loyola University of Chicago
Holly Tuggy
- Bilingual Digital Content Creator and Influencer
- Twitter/Facebook/YouTube: @superholly
Harper Watters
- Dancer and First Soloist, The Houston Ballet
- Digital Content Creator and Influencer, How to Take a Selfie
- TikTok /Instagram: @theharperwatters
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
As former morning co-hosts at Cox Media Group classic country “Country Legends 97.1” KTHT Houston, Dan Gallo and Chuck Akers have informed, educated, and inspired radio listeners over a wide range of generations.
They bring fun, laughter, energy, and expertise over the airwaves, while reminiscing on their experiences in the radio industry and how the industry has changed over the years.
Taking listeners down memory lane, Dan and Chuck take calls from our audience, hearing great reflections from those who enjoyed them in their previous time on the radio together.
Guests:
Dan Gallo
- Former Co-Host of the Morning Drive on Country Legends Radio
- Current Host on SuiteRadio’s “The Legend”
Chuck Akers
- Former Co-Host of the Morning Drive on Country Legends Radio
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Local residents are dining out for a good cause in support of Houston Restaurant Weeks August 1 - September 5, 2022.
Founded by the late “Diva of Dining” restaurant correspondent and philanthropist Cleverley Stone in 2003, Houston Restaurant Weeks spurs an annual citywide boom in restaurant revenues and contributions to the Houston Food Bank.
Today, we're live from B&B Butchers Restaurant to talk with several participating restauranteurs that say they're touched to be able to give back to the community during this event because it allows them to do something small, but impact people's lives in a big way. We also visit with Cleverley Stone’s daughter, who shares what it means to carry on her mother's legacy.
Guests:
Katie Stone
- President of the Cleverley Stone Foundation and Houston Restaurant Weeks
Kiran Verma
- Chef and Owner, Kiran’s Restaurant
Alex Brennan-Martin
- Owner, Brennan’s Houston
Benjamin Berg
- CEO and Founder Berg Hospitality Group
- Owner, B&B Butchers
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Making a stop on his 49-day Drive for Texas campaign, taking him to 70+ cities in 65+ counties, Democratic nominee for the 2022 Texas gubernatorial election Beto O'Rourke is traveling more than 5,600 miles to hold around 70 public events in every part of the state this summer as he campaigns to become the 49th governor of Texas.
In this exclusive one-on-one episode, we talk with O'Rourke as he addresses concerns and questions from listener calls on several issues, including:
- His plan to fix the power grid
- Abbott's extreme attacks on women and overturning Roe v. Wade
- A plan to implement commonsense gun safety measures, including universal background checks which 93% of Texans support
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Last week the Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the second time in a row, trying to help curb inflation. These concerns have us making changes in what we buy and watching our bank accounts more closely. But what has lead to these dire economic times? And with all the solutions being explored, what really can be done to right the nation’s financial issues.
Also, how can children escape poverty as they become adults? One large new study give clues about how lower-income children can rise up the economic ladder.
Locally, the good news is that having recovered from pandemic job loss, reports show that Houston's economic growth is strong.
In this episode, economic experts discuss the state of the economy and the impact it will have on your bottom line.
Guests:
Matthew Jackson
- Professor of Economics from Stanford University and the Santa Fe Institute
Dietrich von Biedenfeld
- Assistant Professor and Department Chair in the College of Business at the University of Houston Downtown
Dr. John Diamond, Ph.D.
- Director, Center for Public Finance at the Baker Institute
- Adjunct Professor of Economics at Rice University
Mike Norman
- President, Modern Money Network (MMT) Economics
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
With the total confirmed monkeypox/orthopoxvirus cases in the United States at 5,811, there are 397 of those cases in Texas. And in Houston/Harris County, 83 cases have been reported.
What we learned in our last segment is that the virus is not limited to one population or gender. And although the monkeypox virus has spread mostly among men who have sex with men, everyone is at risk.
Today, we discuss the latest on monkeypox, what you need to know, and resources available.
Having symptoms, or know someone who is, call the Houston Health Department at 832-393-4220 or the Harris County Public Health Hotline at 832-927-0707.
Guests:
Dr. Susan McLellan
- Medical Director of the Bio-containment Treatment Unit and Director of Bio-safety for Research-Related Infectious Pathogens at UTMB Health.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
On July 29, 1958, President Eisenhower signed the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 establishing the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Today, in 2022, we celebrate more than six decades of space exploration and the successes of the nation’s space program.
With several new developments on the horizon for NASA, the James Webb Telescope is giving us new images and information from space, and it may have just unearthed the most distant galaxies ever seen.
Also, the Artemis 1 Space Program, a human spaceflight program to explore the moon, eventually sending the first astronauts to Mars, is set to launch next month.
For those who don't understand space, our experts in this conversation will provide understanding of our place in the world and environment we live in, as we explore all of this and more on NASA’s 64th birthday.
Guests:
Brian C. Odom, PhD, MLIS
- Acting NASA Chief Historian, NASA History Division
Dr. David Law
- Associate Astronomer at the Space Telescope Science Institute
Katheryn Vazquez
- Docking Systems, Hatches and Mechanisms Subject Matter Expert for Gateway’s “Deep Space Logistics” at Kennedy Space Center
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Today, we are discussing the latest legal topics in the news, everything from abortion to the innocence project. Our husband and wife team of legal experts will address concerns of who do we talk to and how do we find resolution on some of the most pressing issues.
But what about those we are wrongly judged? What are the options at that point?
Also, we highlight a theatre play that offers an interesting look at the jury process that we normally don’t get to see. Twelve Angry Jurors is featured August 5th through 20th at Studio 101 in Houston. For tickets and information, log on to Conemanrunning.com
Guests:
John Raley
- Houston Attorney and Founding Partner of Raley and Bowick Law Firm
- Plays Juror #Eight in Cone Man Running’s productions of “Twelve Angry Jurors”
Kelly Raley, JD, LLM
- Houston Attorney
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Is it ok to use the term 'disabled'? A disabled former public affairs specialist for the National Council on Disability thinks so. There's the belief that the word is necessary in that it connects members of the community through a common history — a lineage of those who fought, protested, and persisted. But when it comes to using the term 'special needs', there's a different view.
One law, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act, which was signed 32 years ago on July 26, 1990, was put in place to insure that those with a disability are afforded the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.
In this episode, we are talking about the rights of those who live with a disability, and what changes society needs to adopt to make a more inclusive world.
Guests:
Carson Tueller (Paralyzed from the chest down)
- Motivational speaker, coach, and activist
Lawrence Carter-Long (Born with cerebral palsy)
- Former Public Affairs Specialist for the National Council on Disability
- Director, Discourse & Development at DisArt, and Founder of #SayTheWord
Vivian Shudde
- CEO, The Brookwood Community
Eileen Edmonds
- Associate Director of Education, Theatre Under The Stars
Kevin Kern
- COO, The Center For Pursuit
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
As the World Health Organization declares the monkeypox outbreak as an international public health emergency, what is the risk of the virus here in Harris County? What we know is that although cases are rising, the community threat level is low, with 47 cases in Houston and 10 cases in Harris County.
To give the big picture and to help understand what we can expect, we talk with infectious disease experts and community leaders to explore all aspects of this newest threat and what you need to know if you have symptoms.
Also, as we take listener calls for questions and comments, we hear testimonials from two people who have contracted the monkeypox virus. One shares that he's currently experiencing mild symptoms, while the other, Houston resident Wesley Wallace, describes his experience of a more severe case.
For questions on testing, vaccinations, and more, call the Harris County Monkeypox Hotline at 832-927-0707.
Guests:
Judge Lina Hidalgo
- Harris County Judge
Dr. James McDeavitt, MD
- Executive Vice President and Dean of Clinical Affairs at Baylor College of Medicine
Dr. Susan McLellan, MD, MPH
- Professor of Infectious Diseases and Medical Director of the UTMB Bio-containment Care Unit
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Food is more than just nourishing our bodies, it’s one way we communicate and share with others about our culture and family history. And with a rich history of diversity in America, our recipes have become as diverse as we are.
Today, we invite your family recipes — those that have been passed down and keep the flavors and traditions of your heritage alive.
Beaumont, Texas native, James Beard nominated chef, restauranteur, and one of the judges of The Great American Recipe, Tiffany Derry is here to share her experience.
The Great American Recipe airs Friday nights at 8 pm central on PBS, with episodes available to watch on pbs.org or on the PBS video app. The season finale airs Friday, August 12th.
Guest:
Celebrity Chef Tiffany Derry
- Judge on The Great American Recipe
- Chef and owner of Roots Southern Table and Roots Chicken Shak
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In day eight of the January 6th hearing, the committee made the case that President Trump’s refusal to intervene in the Capitol Riot was a “dereliction of his duty”.
Many also say evidence shows that Trump wanted to threaten constitutional order — that he was “Executive Producer” of the insurrection. He called rioters to Washington by using war rhetoric to get them to attack the Capitol while he sat back to watch and enjoy it.
But the committee seems to have put together a wise strategy of using witnesses who are primarily life-long republicans. Not only are they appalled by Trump’s actions, they are brave enough to speak the truth — risking their lives, their family, safety, and livelihood.
Is it time for us to re-examine what we expect from our elected officials? Years from now, how will history look back at this moment in time?
Our panel of experts are here to break down the latest details.
Guests:
Jennifer Mercieca
- Professor of Communication at Texas A&M University
- Author of “Demagogue for President: The Rhetorical Genius of Donald Trump”
Mike Purdy
- Presidential Historian
- Author of “Presidential Friendships: How They Changed History”.
Timothy Naftali
- Clinical Associate Professor of History and Public Service at NYU
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
With mass shootings consistently making headlines these days, there’s a stronger push for newer and stronger laws.
Gun safety vs. the Second Amendment — why can’t both exist?
"Interests are too strong in the country to have substantive gun law improvements. Easy access to guns leads to more violence," one gun violence expert says.
There are also those from the general public who feel gun owners that are not responsible with their guns should face significant civil fines, or there should be criminal prosecution for all of the accidental deaths that occur with minors shooting minors.
Today, a panel of gun violence and gun law experts answer listener calls, questions, and concerns on these hot-button issues.
But first, we discuss how President Biden was scheduled to give a speech on gun violence today, having been vaccinated and twice boosted, but still tested positive for COVID-19.
A local infections disease expert weighs in to explain what we need to know now, as these sorts of breakthrough infections climb steadily with the highly transmissible BA.5 omicron subvariant spreading throughout the country.
Guests:
Dr. Michael Chang
- Pediatric Infectious Disease Physician, McGovern Medical School and Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital
Peter Ambler
- Executive Director and Co-Founder, Giffords Courage to Fight Gun Violence Organization
Dru Stevenson
- Wayne Fisher Research Professor and Professor of Law, South Texas College of Law
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
With the country still very divided over the Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, states are putting their own laws on abortion into effect — making it very confusing for many Americans.
As we take a look at the latest laws in Texas and across America, there's also the question of what health implications we see in regard to these new laws.
What legal impact does this have for women across Texas and the US?
Also, many wonder if there are penalties if a woman travels out of state for a procedure.
As Ohio restricts abortions, we learn that a 10-year-old female rape victim had to travel to Indiana to have this procedure done.
What health and psychological implications do these decisions carry with them?
In this episode, we will discuss this complicated issue and look at how people feel about having the government deciding over their lives in this manner. Plus, our panel of experts take calls to address listener questions and concerns.
Guests:
Dr. Richelle Whittaker
- Educational Psychologist, Parenting Advisor, and CEO of Next Steps At Work and at Providential Counseling Services
Dr. Kimberly Pilkinton
- OB-GYN and President-Elect of the Texas Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Emily Berman
- Associate Professor, University of Houston Law Center
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
With the pandemic still being a part of everyone's reality after two-and-a-half years, the following questions remain:
Globally, what is going on with COVID?
Nationally, where are we on COVID?
Locally, are we at our peak infection rate, or are the numbers still growing?
And now that monkeypox is on the rise, how worried should we be about that?
The good news is that as more information becomes available, the better we are at fighting these unwanted infectious agents.
Recently, what we've learned is that the CDC has endorsed Novavax, a more traditional COVID vaccine for adults. However, experts say our COVID protection outside isn’t what it was in 2020, so we still need to think more critically about outdoor gatherings.
Also, when it comes to scheduling your child's back-to-school physicals and appointments, medical experts advise on how to make sure they are up to date on routine vaccines and how added protection can help their immune system.
Guests:
Dr. Peter Hotez, MD, PhD
- Dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine
- Co-Director, Texas Children’s Hospital for Vaccine Development
Dr. Sandra McKay
- Pediatrician, UT Health Houston and UT Physicians
Dr. Catherine Troisi
- Associate Professor, Divisions of Management, Policy, and Community Health and Epidemiology at UTHealth School of Public Health
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
A new report by the Texas House of Representatives investigative committee on the Robb Elementary school mass shooting found that "systemic failures" and "poor decision making" failed to stop an 18-year-old shooter from killing 19 students and two teachers on May 24 in Uvalde, Texas.
Some say it's disturbing to hear people attempting to make legitimate excuses for the Uvalde Police Department.
Others feel that too much blame is being place on police officers, and not enough blame being placed on the leadership in Texas.
What about mental health support services to assist those deeply affected by this tragedy?
Last week, Uvalde County Commissioners approved allowing the Ecumenical Center to run a resilience center to help with counseling services for the family and victims of the mass shooting.
In this episode, we hear from Texas law enforcement and mental health experts, as we take listener calls to uncover what happens when we put our faith in the police and other first responders to protect our children, but the systems we believe in fail.
Guests:
Mary Beth Fisk
- CEO / Executive Director of the Ecumenical Center for Education, Counseling & Health
Chief Jimmy Perdue
- Chief Of Police, North Richland Hills Police Department
- President, Texas Police Chiefs Association
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Psychologist, Director of the Center for Violence Prevention at UTMB
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The difference between life and death is only a few degrees in temperature for coral reefs.
Their role in our ocean is not just a multicolored jewel of ecological diversity but a way of protecting our coastlines from erosion.
Scientists are in a race against time and climate change as they undertake one of the largest environmental rescue missions on the planet to save our oceans.
Is the solution to keeping the ocean cool up in the clouds?
- Dr. Juli Berwald
- Author of LIFE ON THE ROCKS: Building a Future for Coral Reefs
This episode of Town Square is guest-hosted by Brenda Valdivia, in for Ernie Manouse.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The art of animation has made leaps and bounds since first appearing as a novelty act in the early 1900s.
Now, animated films are expected to be both technically and emotionally complex as they explore themes of grief, love, and self-discovery.
All while they appear seamlessly natural and fantastical.
Unlike most Hollywood projects, the pandemic didn't slow down animation productions, yet it's changing significantly thanks to the internet and a new wave of creators producing your favorite toons.
What does the future of animation have in store?
And what stories can fans expect in a genre where entire production companies share their ideas across the globe?
- Jinko Gotoh
- Vice-President of Women in Animation (WIA)
- Producer of KLAUS and The Lego Movie 2
- Animation industry consultant
- Maija Burnett
- Director of the Character Animation Program at California Institute of the Arts
This episode of Town Square is guest-hosted by Brenda Valdivia, in for Ernie Manouse.
Below are some examples of animated short films made by students at CalArts:
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Obesity rates are climbing in the United States, with Texas higher than the national average at the 30-49 percent range.
As more Americans face weight challenges, a new wave of medical understanding challenges the causes, contributions, and social stigma about weight management.
- Dr. Nik Dhurandhar
-
- Chair of the Department of Nutritional Sciences at Texas Tech University
- Editor In Chief of the International Journal of Obesity
- Past president of The Obesity Society
- Dr. Sameer Murali
- Obesity medicine specialist at UTHealth Houston
- Dr. Jennifer Bahrman
- Professor of psychiatry at UTHealth Houston
This episode of Town Square is guest-hosted by Brenda Valdivia, in for Ernie Manouse.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In an inside view of what was happening inside the White House on January 6,White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson's testimony, gives a play-by-play of the West Wing leading up to the insurrection, stating that Trump didn't want to stop Capitol attack.
As Hutchinson gave a complete rundown of the various types of erratic behavior Trump acted out on a regular basis, she also mentioned how he tried to grab the steering wheel from a Secret Service agent while being driven back to the White House after the Jan. 6 rally inside of a limo.
Some say that after listening to Hutchinson's testimony regarding Trump reaching for the steering wheel of the limo, this demonstrates real evidence of a narcissistic, unstable person who has no business holding public office.
Then there are those who think even more information came out in the hearing today, where Trump wanted metal detectors taken away for Jan. 6, saying armed rallygoers were not there to hurt him.
And what about the people involved in the Jan. 6 riot who are asking for pardons? Many wonder if doing so is an admission of guilt.
While today's hearing leaves us with more information to digest, we invite listeners to share their thoughts, ideas, questions and concerns with experts in the field of political science.
Guests:
Dr. Robert Stein
- Lena Goal-man Fox Professor of Political Science, Rice University
Dr. Paul Brace
- Clarence L. Carter Chair of Legal Studies, Department of Political Science, Rice University.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
It is one of the things that traditionally we are uncomfortable talking about – mental health.
It scares some, misunderstood by many more, but it is ever present.
You may be surprised to know just how much it effects our younger generation. According to reports, 75% of mental illness symptoms have onset before age 25, and 50% have onset before age 14.
But what are we doing to better understand it, and to help those dealing with it ?
Hiding in Plain Sight: Youth Mental Illness, presented by Ken Burns, demonstrates the awareness of mental health across all spectrums of the population and how it has been growing after years living in the pandemic. The film specifically focuses on the particular concerns about the youngest generations.
Today, that’s our focus, as we talk with mental health experts, the filmmakers of the series, and address callers who share their personal stories with us.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or mental illness, call the National Hotline for Mental Health Crises and Suicide Prevention at 800-950-6264.
Guests:
Erik and Christopher Ewers
- Co-directors of the PBS documentary, Hiding in Plain Sight: Youth Mental Illness
Dr. Gregory A. Hudnall
- Retired Associate Superintendent with the Provo City School District
- Founder of Hope4Utah, a non-profit, community-based organization dedicated to suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention.
Dr. Jeff Temple
Psychologist and Director of the Center for Violence Prevention at UTMB
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In light of the Supreme Court effectively overturning Roe v. Wade - Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has declared today a “Sanctity of Life” Holiday – closing all of the Office of the Attorney General offices across the state.
Meanwhile, those who support abortion rights are gathering in large numbers across the country to protest the supreme Court ruling.
In addition to discussing abortion rights in general, many feel the need to take a closer look into other rights such as birth control, contraceptives, and even same-sex laws.
What are your thoughts, feeling and opinions, about the decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization?
In this episode, we take listener calls, while experts help continue the conversation about the U.S. Supreme Court decision on overturning Roe v. Wade and how it impacts Texas.
Guests:
Amy O'Donnell
- Texas Alliance for Life
Charles W. "Rocky" Rhodes
- Charles Weigel II Research Professor of State & Federal Constitutional Law at South Texas College of Law Houston
Hon. Vanessa D. Gilmore
- Retired judge for the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
What has caused the high gas price?
War, economy, COVID?
Some think it could be related to refineries, storms we've had, infrastructure, employee base, and demand.
What we also wonder about is the comparison of the price of gas to the oil and gas industries' record profits right now. They are making good money, so how do they justify it?
To help better understand why and to speculate on what we can expect next, business and energy industry experts discuss what exactly has impacted the high prices.
We also discuss federal programs and how they can work to help people understand the policies on the table on how to stall inflation.
Maybe we will see some relief now that President Biden is calling a for 3-month suspension of gas and diesel taxes.
Also, there's a good chance your salary has not increased at the same rate as inflation, so we take listener calls to hear tips and tricks to help us keep up and afford the things we need.
But first — an update on the Uvalde School shooting from the Texas Public Radio newsroom, where we learn Uvalde Mayor Don McLaughlin calls Texas Department of Public Safety director's testimony misleading, saying state law enforcement agencies should have equal blame for the poor response.
Guests:
Camille Phillips
- Education reporter, Texas Public Radio
Dietrich von Biendenfeld
- Assistant Professor and Department Chair in the College of Business at the University of Houston Downtown.
Rusty Braziel
- Executive Chairman and Principal Energy Markets Consultant for RBN Energy
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In laying the narrative of how former President Trump's camp continued the pressure to overturn the 2020 election results, today's January 6th committee hearing demonstrated his scheme to submit fake slates of electors.
However, Arizona House Speaker Rusty Bowers testified he resisted Trump’s pressure campaign to force states to overturn their certified election results.
Also, Mark Meadow’s ex-aide testified that the White House counsel’s office knew the “fake electors” scheme was potentially illegal.
And then there's the testimony by Shaye Moss and the recorded video of her mom, which were compelling and heart-wrenching recounts of their horrific experience as election workers in Georgia.
With findings like these, it's no surprise that some feel this creates a trend of mistrust in government and this could possibly be why trust went down so much after the 2020 election.
Some even say Trump has created a party where if you don't believe in the "Big Lie", you are no longer welcome to be a member of the Republican party.
To help dissect today's proceedings further, federal election administration and law experts take listener calls to discuss some of the allegations, false narratives, and how things work.
Guests:
Mitchell Brown
- Professor in the Department of Political Science at Auburn University and Associate Editor of the Journal of Political Science Education
Stephen Vladeck
- Charles Alan Wright Chair in Federal Courts at the University of Texas School of Law
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The celebrities and recognizable names whose faces we see on the covers of magazines and tabloids — they seem so successful, so rich, and so pretty. How could they truly have problems? Problems like us?
Colton Haynes, American actor and model known for his starring role as Jackson in the MTV supernatural drama series Teen Wolf and as Roy Harper Arsenal in the CW superhero television series Arrow, is one of those “pretty people”.
In his new book Miss Memory Lane, a memoir that took almost three years to write — in an unflinching honest approach — he addresses his struggles with sexuality, addiction, the loss of his parents, and his hopes for a better future for today's queer youth to live in their truth.
For this episode, we spend a full hour with the actor and author as he pulls back the curtain on his life and career, revealing the incredible highs and devastating lows.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Though the Juneteenth holiday was passed as a federal law in 2021 that derived from a lifelong dream of Fort Worth, Texas resident Opal Lee, many may not know Galveston, Texas is where Juneteenth was actually born.
Juneteenth and General Order No. 3, read by Major General Gordon Granger on June 19, 1865 announcing that all slaves were free, is one of Galveston’s most important historical moments.
In Galveston and around the world, Juneteenth is observed with speeches and song, picnics, parades, and exhibits of African-American history and art.
However, when it comes to having events at venues that were the previous grounds of slave plantations, some black people struggle with feeling offended, whereas others of the same race feel it's important to give truth to what happened in these spaces.
And what about the pursuit of economic equality for African Americans and its relation to Juneteenth?
With organizations like the Galveston Historical Foundation, being able to experience the live tour of their Ashton Villa "And Still We Rise" exhibit is a place where many will be surprised in knowing the bricks that the space was built with were made by slaves before June 19.
Then there's the history of Emancipation Park, a place that's said to be one of the most sacred spaces in the city of Houston.
While live on location in the birthplace of Juneteenth, we take calls and give our listeners an opportunity to respond to history experts as they discuss why Juneteenth is a celebration of black history, black beauty, and community but also complexity.
A list of Juneteenth celebrations taking place this weekend and for the month of June can be found at:
Visitgavelston.com
Juneteenthhouston.org
MillerOutdoorTheatre.com
Guests:
Tommie Boudreaux
- Chair, Galveston Historical Foundation African American Heritage Committee
- Co-author of African Americans of Galveston
Barbara Krauthamer
- Dean of the College of Humanities and Fine Arts and Professor of History, University of Massachusetts-Amherst
- 2013 NAACP Image Award-winner for Outstanding Literary Work as co-author of Envisioning Emancipation: Black Americans and the End of Slavery
Marco Robinson, PhD
- Assistant Director, Prairie View A&M University Ruth J. Simmons Center for Race and Justice
- Associate Professor of History, Prairie View A&M University
Necole S. Irvin, JD, MPH
- Director, City of Houston Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The third January 6 hearing just wrapped up – laying out the narrative of how President Trump latched onto a theory of how a vice president can usurp the will of the people, and select the President of the United States.
This time – the focus was on how former President Donald Trump pressured his vice president to not accept the lawfully presented electors.
On January 6, while speaking before the gathered crowds, President Trump said, in regard to the electors, all Pence had to do was “send it back to the states…”. Nonetheless, Pence continued to follow his constitutional duty.
Also in today's hearing, former federal Judge Michael Luttig testified he would have laid his body across the road before he would let the vice president overturn the results of the 2020 election.
What are your thoughts and feelings?
We take calls, and get our guests' thoughts on current Republican lawmakers' responses to all of this after the fact now, and how they're talking about what took place on January 6.
Guests:
Elisabeth Clemens
- Professor of Sociology at the University of Chicago
Mark Jones
- Rice University Professor in the Department of Political Science
- James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy’s Political Science Fellow
- Faculty director of the Master of Global Affairs Program
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Elder abuse is common in the community and in institutional settings, with high rates in nursing homes and long-term care facilities.
Add in the COVID-19 pandemic, and rates went even higher.
According to the National Council on Aging, approximately one in 10 Americans over the age of 60 has experienced abuse.
Some types of elder abuse are not so obvious to detect though. For example, there's senior fraud, which involves scams that target vulnerable elders.
Sadly, more research shows each year, about five million American seniors experience abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
How do we detect, prevent, and intervene in elder abuse? And what are the resources available to stop it?
With June 15 recognized as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, we talk with experts about raising awareness and helping to highlight many of the resources available for combating elder abuse risks and warning signs.
Also, callers share their stories, ask questions, and have their concerns addressed on what accounts for the prevalence in elder abuse.
If you notice signs of elder abuse, contact the Adult Abuse Hotline at* 1-800-222-8000.***
Guests:
Andrea Williams
- Director of CarePartners' Dementia Day Center
Dr. Jason Burnett
- Associate Professor at University of Texas School of Public Health
- Co-Director of the Texas Elder Abuse & Mistreatment Institute (TEAM)
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
How many times did you look up a recipe or cooking tip, only to realize you needed a better food processor, or toaster, or even wooden spoon? This happens to most of us when spending time trying to decide what kinds of cooking utensils or machines will actually help our culinary creations.
Even some of the best cooks don't want to purchase something that will just end up disappointing, not working, or end up cluttering the shelves or pantry.
What about that gadget that will save you from spending money on your latest foodie obsession? According to the database company Statista, Americans will spend over $18 billion dollars on kitchen gadgets by the end of 2022.
What are your favorite kitchen gadgets and appliances? Which ones are just fun to use?
In a time where the pandemic has us looking for the easiest and most effective ways of doing things, we talk with kitchen gadget experts who tell us what modern miracles make meal prep a dream. We also take calls from listeners who want to know which of their old-fashioned appliances need to be upgraded.
Guests:
Lisa McManus, Hannah Crowley
- Executive editors of equipment testing and ingredient tasting at America’s Test Kitchen
- America's Test Kitchen airs Saturdays at 11:30 am on Houston Public Media TV 8.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
One of the primary focuses of today's hearing was to underscore the idea that former President Donald Trump continued to peddle false election fraud claims after being told those claims were not legitimate.
At the same time, the second hearing leaned heavily on testimony from Trump's former Attorney General William Barr. He said he repeatedly told Trump that there was no evidence of widespread fraud, but Trump refused to listen.
We also saw California Democrat Representative Zoe Lofgren play a crucial role in the hearing's second presentation. She stated, "the big lie was also a big rip-off," an argument that ended today's hearing.
In this episode, we ask listeners what they think of the new live testimonies, as experts take us through a discussion on the 14 most compelling lines from today's January 6 committee hearing. Additionally, we find out if Trump's way of thinking is due to his plausible deniability.
Guests:
Dr. John Mark Hansen, PhD
- Charles L. Hutchinson Distinguished Service Professor in the Department of Political Science and College at the University of Chicago
Dr. Jeff Temple, PhD
- Psychologist and Director of the Center for Violence Prevention at UTMB
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
With the House Committee describing the 2021 January 6 insurrection as an organized conspiracy directed and coordinated by then President Donald Trump to remain in power, it's seen as one of the darkest acts culminating in the worst attack on the U.S. Capitol since 1814.
House Committee Vice-Chair Liz Cheney and Chairman Bennie Thompson shared testimony and findings that showed the former president knew he had not won the 2020 election, and yet, he continued his assault on American Democracy.
One of many Capitol Police officers injured at January 6 insurrection, Caroline Edwards, also testified on the attack saying, "It was carnage, and it was chaos. I can't even describe what I saw. Never in my wildest dreams did I think as a police officer, I would find myself in the middle of a battle."
In addition to Thompson, Chaney, and Edwards, what did you think of the other live testimonies from those like filmmaker Nick Quested, for example?
What questions do we still need answered?
Is there more information to be uncovered by the January 6th committee?
We talk with local political experts and get listeners reactions to the first hearings.
Guests:
Dr. Robert Stein
- Lena Gohlman Fox Professor of Political Science at Rice University
Dallas Jones
- Democratic Political Consultant, CEO of Elite Change & Host of “Red, White, and Blue,”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
May 25, 2020, on the streets of Minneapolis, Minnesota, a black man died while in the custody of a white male police officer.
That black man was Houston native George Floyd. The white police officer was Derek Chauvin, who held his knee on Floyd's neck for nearly 10 minutes, killing him.
As the uproar in protests surrounding this incident began, the Black Lives Matter Movement was just starting to gain momentum, with Floyd's death sparking the largest racial justice protests in the United States since the Civil Rights Movement.
Today marks the day of June 9, 2020 when Floyd was buried in his hometown of Houston.
As we remember George Floyd, talk with political leaders and Forbes culture journalists, we also ask: Do black people feel any safer since Floyd's death? What do future generations need to know and refrain from doing to build racial equity?
Guests:
Congressman Al Green
- Democratic representing Texas 9th District - Houston, Texas
Raquel "Rocky" Harris
- Culture Senior Multiplatform Reporter at Forbes
Jared Council
- Culture Senior Editor at Forbes
Dallas Jones
- Co-host of Red, White, and Blue
- President and CEO of Elite Change
- FOX 26 Political Analyst
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Often victims of domestic violence don’t speak out. This can be because of fear, or the concern they won’t be believed. Unfortunately, this can create an environment where the violence continues.
On today's show, NFL star DeAndre Hopkins’ mother, Sabrina Greenlee, talks about how she experienced domestic abuse from an early age. From sexual abuse to physical abuse, her experience left her with fractured ribs and a broken collarbone. She even survived a domestic violence acid attack that left her blind and severely scared in 2002.
But Greenlee survived and has gone on to become a domestic violence advocate, an entrepreneur, and a philanthropist — helping countless other women in similar situations through her charity “Speaking Mentally, Outwardly Opening Opportunities Toward Healing" (S.MO.O.O.T.H.).
Also, the 75th Annual Tony Awards will air Sunday, June 12 on CBS — honoring the best and brightest from Broadway. One Houston area high school theater director and Prairie View A&M University alumna talks about what it means to be receiving the Excellence in Theater Education Award during the Tony Awards ceremony this Sunday night at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.
Guests:
Roshunda Jones-Koumba,
- Theater director at G.W. Carver Magnet High School in Aldine ISD
Sabrina Greenlee
- Domestic violence survivor/advocate, motivational speaker, entrepreneur
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
National Cancer Survivors Day is celebrated annually on June 5. It's a celebration for those who have survived, an inspiration for those recently diagnosed, a gathering of support for families, and an outreach to the community.
Who is a cancer survivor?
The National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation defines a survivor as anyone living with a history of cancer — from the moment of diagnosis through the remainder of life.
In raising awareness of the challenges of cancer survivorship, MD Anderson designates this week as Cancer Survivorship Week by hosting online activities June 5-11, 2022.
But we begin today by celebrating survivors — those who have battled cancer head on. We devote the program to better understanding cancer, how we avoid it, treat it, and recover from it.
Guests:
Dr. Emily Tonorezos
- Director of the Office of Cancer Survivorship at the National Cancer Institute
Dr. Welela Tereffe, MD, MPH
- Chief Medical Executive at MD Anderson Cancer Center
Dr. Vlad Sandulache, MD, PhD
- Chief of the Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery Section, Michael E DeBakey Veteran Affairs Medical Center
- Associate Professor at Baylor College of Medicine
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Sometimes we have to guess how our pets are feeling because they can’t tell us what’s going on. So, we watch and observe – and when needed, we ask a veterinarian.
Taking care of a pet can be a great deal of responsibility though. While making sure they are fed, walked, and in healthy condition, the heat of summer adds more complications to pet care.
What else does it take to keep and care for a healthy pet?
According to research and markets insights, the pet care global market shows a rising demand for premium care products is what will drive growth through 2030.
But buying products for pets isn't the only necessity. You must be willing to dedicate part of your life to your pet, be patient, share your free time with the animal, and then combine love with training.
Also, how do you know the right time of getting a companion for your pet? What precautions should you take before introducing them?
What we learn is that care isn’t only in times of illness. Like anything else we love, there is ongoing attention and upkeep...from brushing their coats…to brushing their teeth.
Today, Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists will answer all of your pet care questions. And not just for dogs and cats but exotic pet questions too!
Guests:
Dr. Kevin Gulikers, DVM, MS, DACVIM (SAIM)
- Medical Director
Dr. Sue Chen, DVM, DAVBP (Avian)
- Specialist in Exotic Animals
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
As we continue to highlight Houston theater, we turn our focus to the smaller, local and community theatres to provide a preview of what they have coming up this summer and in their next season.
With a long list of great theatres to feature, 4th Wall Theater is one longtime Houston theatre group that will present its final week of the playing of Between Riverside and Crazy this Saturday, a stage performance that promises a lot of fun.
Mildred's Umbrella Theater Company seeks to challenge audiences and theatre artists by creating and performing bold, innovative, and new theatrical works in their season, while also bringing young writers from across the country present plays to help stop gun violence.
Then there's Miller Outdoor Theatre's Juneteenth: The Journey to Freedom. This performance will be filled with dramatic visuals, live music, narrations, and dance — telling the story of African Americans from 1865 to today and their journey to the celebration of freedom.
Many more theaters and performing arts reviews, to include the Express Children's Theatre, also make for great performing arts conversation in this episode, as we take recommendations from our listeners on what shows they like best.
Guests:
Doni Wilson
- Houston Chronicle Theatre Critic
- Professor of English at Houston Baptist University
Philip Lehl
- 4th Wall Theater Company Co-Founder, Artistic Director
Jennifer Decker
- Mildred’s Umbrella Theater Company, Founder and Artistic Director
Cissy Segall Davis
- Managing Director at Miller Outdoor Theatre
Tim Fried-Fiorid
- Express Children's Theatre, Executive Director
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
All Houstonians, especially those in hurricane evacuation zones, should start getting ready for this year’s hurricane season.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, hurricane season along the Atlantic Ocean is expected to be more active than usual this year, with a higher probability that major storms will land in Texas.
As we know, every first day of June marks the beginning of the hurricane season, and if Hurricane Harvey taught us anything, it’s that we should never let our guard down.
Weather and disaster assistance experts are here to detail the forecast outlook for the 2022 hurricane season, explain the differences between weather advisories, and discuss what residents need to do for tropical storm preparedness or recovery.
Also, we take calls from our listeners to find out what lessons they've learned from past hurricane seasons and if they're ready for the storm this time around.
Meanwhile, our host, Ernie Manouse, along with Craig Cohen of Houston Matters, take us shopping with them for what to purchase for your hurricane emergency kit.
Review the Harris County hurricane preparedness checklist here.
Guests:
Frank Billingsley
- KPRC 2 Chief Meteorologist
Francisco Sanchez
- Associate Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Disaster Assistance
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In this third episode of our coverage on the Uvalde mass shooting, Mustafa Tameez, President and Founder of Outreach Strategists, who's also a former consultant on counter-violent extremism for the US Department of Homeland Security, addresses why some may refer to these types of shootings as homegrown terrorism.
And as demand for new gun reform that previously failed to pass Congress are raised again, with some Americans now questioning the Second Amendment, University of Houston law professor Sandra Guerra Thompson explains if it's possible that we're about to see another significant spike in support after what happened in Uvalde.
Also, we have an update from Bri Kirkham, Digital Editor for Texas Public Radio, who shares what the Director of the Texas Department of Public Safety recently addressed to the media in Uvalde.
Additionally on the show, News 88.7’s Reporter Lucio Vasquez and Ariel Hobbs, Program Coordinator with March for Our Lives Houston, speak to our listening audience live from outside this weekend's NRA Annual Convention at the George R. Brown Conventions Center.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Today's episode allows us to talk to about the healing processes involved in dealing with the mass shooting in Uvalde, Texas. We seek to form connections— to reach out to others— to know we are not alone.
To help sort through all of this from a psychological perspective is Dr. Jeff Temple, Director of the Center for Violence Prevention at UTMB, who served on Governor Abbott's school safety committee after the Santa Fe High School shooting in the Houston area in 2018.
We then hear from Tony Monalto, President of Stand with Parkland: The National Association of Families for Safe Schools, whose daughter, Gina Rose Montalto, was a victim of the mass shooting at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, on February 14, 2018.
And, John Martinez shares his deep, heartfelt feelings about his aunt, Irma Garcia, a fourth grade teacher at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde who was also among those killed by the mass shooter on Tuesday.
But first, Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia takes time to lend her voice to this discussion to passionately express her sentiments and concern for Congress to take immediate action toward gun violence in America.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
It's very heartbreaking to learn that the recent shooting in Uvalde is among the deadliest K–12 shootings in the U.S. Also, 27 school shootings have taken place so far this year, and according to NPR's "Education Week's" database, 119 such incidents have taken place since 2018.
Today, we open our show with a live update from the Texas Public Radio newsroom onsite at a news conference in Uvalde, Texas.
As we dive deeper into this conversation, a Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law professor discusses the need for legislative proposals to be tailored to disarm the mentally ill.
Also, a psychologist and director from the Center for Violence Prevention at UTMB talks about the expected response from the community — how we feel and how to talk to our kids — how to channel the feelings of desperation.
Additionally, one of the nation’s leading school safety experts with more than 30 years of front-line public and private urban, suburban, and rural school security experience weighs in on human threat being a common factor.
Will we see a change in gun legislation in Congress soon? Our callers share their thoughts and questions.
Guests:
Bri Kirkham
- Digital Editor for Texas Public Radio
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Director of the Center for Violence Prevention and psychologist at UTMB
Kenneth S. Trump
- President of National School Safety and Security Services
- Author of - Practical School Security: Basic Guidelines for Safe and Secure Schools
Professor Shaundra Kellam Lewis
- Texas Southern University School of Law
- Wrote the lead article “Crossfire on Compulsory Campus Carry Laws--When the First and Second Amendments Collide”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
At the top of today's show, we talk with the Harris County elections administration, who says what the county faced a couple of months back, where two-page ballots tripped up some voters, is less likely to happen in this time around.
In discussing one of the hottest races on the Republican ticket for Attorney General, many wonder if voters will overlook legal troubles concerning Ken Paxton .
To get more insight on the primary election race and updates, political consultants and hosts of Houston Public Media's “Red, White, and Blue" join our government and politics reporter from the News 88.7 newsroom to break down how the Democratic party is still clearing its candidates for four other statewide offices.
In addition, we open the call lines for listener comments and questions.
Guests:
Nadia Hakim
- Deputy Director of Communications and Voter Outreach at Harris County Elections
Andrew Schneider
- Houston Public Media & News 88.7’s Politics and Government Reporter
Gary Polland and Dallas Jones
- Political Consultants & Hosts of “Red, White, and Blue”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Today, we salute all brave service members and their families who support them in answering the call to serve our country.
First, we open the discussion with a Russia-Ukraine and US military update, where a Rice University political science professor gives a world view of the situation and explains why the Biden administration is considering sending US special operations forces to protect US embassy in Kyiv.
Locally, Houston Marines share how recruiting during the pandemic sparked more human interaction, which helped build great community relationships. A critical component of their mission’s success was to involve local military or Marine veterans to identify future Marines.
We also learn that local active-duty personnel need more support, and Mayor Sylvester Turner's Office of Veterans and Military Affairs is committed to be more involved by playing a more active role.
Guests:
Dr. Richard Stoll
- Professor of Political Science at Rice University
- Faculty Scholar, Rice University’s Baker Institute
- Senior fellow, at the Institute for Sustainable Peace
Major Courtney J. Boston
- Out-going Commanding Officer of Recruiting Station Houston, 8th Marine Corps District, United States Marine Corps
Major Jordan Eddington
- In-coming Commanding Officer of Recruiting Station Houston, 8th Marine Corps District, United States Marine Corps
Lashondra Jones, PhD
- United States Marine Corps veteran
- Coordinator for the Houston Mayor’s Office of Veterans and Military Affairs
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
While everyone is taking about abortion laws, it's important to start a conversation to better understand the history of Roe v. Wade.
In the beginning of the show, we hear from a journalist and author of the book, The Family Roe: An American Story, which tells illuminating unknown stories and about the people behind Roe v. Wade, and enables the public, for the first time, to see the abortion debate in America in its full social and personal context.
Regarding the legal and medical implications of possibly overturning Roe V. Wade, we move the conversation to talk with legal and medical experts about what this means for women’s health, and how this would impact Texas’ current and future health care and abortion laws.
Guests:
Joshua Prager
- New York Times journalist and author of the book The Family Roe: An American Story
Hon. Vanessa D. Gilmore
- Retired judge for the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas
Dr. Rebecca Cohen
- Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Comprehensive Women's Health Center in Denver
Genevieve Marnon
- Legislative Director for Right to Life of Michigan
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and while many of us probably agree that a healthy mental status and a healthy brain are the foundations of overall good health, why are we so afraid to talk about mental illness?
Experts say that when we use language around mental health in kind of a flippant way, it's dangerous because it gives people who are struggling the impression that their struggle isn't valid or that it isn't a part of the everyday human experience.
Locally, there's the National Alliance of Mental Health Illness of Greater Houston, who's working to establish or expand the organization’s reach and partnerships. Their collaborations provide support, education, and advocacy to those impacted by mental health and mental illness concerns.
Today, we talk with a Houston-licensed psychologist and author of the book Permission to Come Home: Reclaiming Mental Health as Asian Americans.
We also hear from one Houston Public Media reporter who, despite battling depression, he managed to build a career that a lot of people would envy.
If you are struggling with mental health issues, help is available at mentalhealth.gov.
Should you or anyone you know have thoughts of suicide, help is always available at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Guests:
Angelina Brown-Hudson
- Executive Director, National Alliance of Mental Illness of Greater Houston
Dr. Jenny Wang
- Author and Licensed Psychologist
Andrew Schneider
- Houston Public Media Politics and Government Reporter
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
May is “National Barbecue Month” and our experts start us off with a complete guide on how to barbecue — the differences between a professional barbeque and a backyard barbecue.
Next, we move into the proper way to set up your barbeque pit, to the seasonings, to the chef's particular expertise.
But who does barbeque best? Texas, Kansas City, or the Carolinas?
A local food writer and several local pit masters will take us through this debate, while two Houston contestants from the new Food Network show BBQ Brawl share their experience as barbecue pit masters facing off to win the title of Master of 'Cue.
Each barbeque expert will also share their personal journey through the food industry and their best barbecuing secrets pertaining to tasty, savory recipes and cookout tips.
Plus, we invite listeners to call in and share their favorite local barbeque spots.
Guests:
J.C. Reid
- Houston Chronicle Barbeque Columnist
Randy Pauly
- Houston's Holy Cow Cookers Pitmaster
- Director of Barbeque with Buc-ee's BBQ
- Toro’s handler (Houston Texans mascot)
Michelle Wallace
- Executive Chef, Gatlin’s BBQ
- Contestant on Food Network's BBQ Brawl
Don Nguyen
- Co-owner, Khoi BBQ
- Contestant on Food Network's BBQ Brawl
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
When you think of Houston’s AAPI community, you might think fondly of the vibrant businesses, restaurants and community centers in the city’s Asia Town.
But Asia Americans have been making a mark all over Greater Houston since the late 19th century.
Today, in honor of Asia American and Pacific Islander – or AAPI – Heritage Month, we celebrate the history of Asians and Asian Americans right here in Houston.
Experts discuss the diversity, contributions, and challenges of the AAPI community, as well as the hopes and dreams of the next generation.
In addition, we talk about Asia Society Texas' 31 Ways to Celebrate AAPI Month in May and beyond.
Guests:
Dr. Anne Chao
- Adjunct Lecturer in the School of Humanities at Rice University
- Manager of the Houston Asian American Archive
Stephanie Todd-Wong
- Director of Communications and Audience Engagement at the Asia Society Texas
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The country is in mourning again.
Ten people are dead and three injured in a mass shooting at a supermarket Saturday, in Buffalo, New York.
Almost all of the victims were Black.
The gunman – a white, 18 year old male – is believed to be the author of online writings that describe his white supremacist ideologies and his plan to target the Black community.
Officials are investigating this as a racially motivated hate crime and are also considering terrorism charges.
Why does this keep happening? How do we stop not only gun violence but hate crimes? And what is the role of social media and misinformation?
Today, we are here to discuss and hear from you.
How do you process what happened in Buffalo? How do you react to this news yet again?
Guests:
Reverend Dr. Angela Ravin-Anderson
- Social Justice Ministry Co-leader at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Psychologist and Director of the Center for Violence Prevention at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston
Kurt Braddock
-
Assistant Professor in the School of Communication at American University
-
His areas of research include extremism, white supremacy, radicalization, misinformation, and domestic terrorism.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Have you been itching to get out of the house and just go ... somewhere?
COVID forced us to spend over two years in various states of lockdown and limited travel – but now we can finally “move about the cabin” as they say.
According to Dr. Anthony Fauci this week, the US is “out of the pandemic phase.”
And if you’re ready to explore and travel, why not start in your own “backyard” – with Houston!
Today, a local cultural ambassador talks about must-see locations, quirky landmarks, and other fun ways to be a hometown tourist!
What are some of your favorite places to visit in Houston?
What would you recommend others to do for a staycation?
Plus, we have a COVID update from a medical expert to keep you safe and informed.
Guests:
Dr. Thomas Giordano
- Professor and Section Chief, Medicine Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine
Sarah Gish
- Owner and Founder of Gish Creative
- Publisher of Gish Picks: Curated Culture for Kids & Adults
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Elon Musk’s recent purchase of Twitter has made headlines this week, with many speculating on what changes might be coming and their impact on social media and free speech.
Concerns that come to the forefront center around what happens when the ability of a single individual influences public discourse and how tech companies negotiate monitoring speech vs. free speech. Some even wonder if this means Donald Trump will be allowed back on Twitter.
We hear from experts who talks about the power and influence of social media, which one cybersecurity expert who says freedom of speech is important, but so is telling the truth.
Also, the cornerstone of Houston’s theater scene, Main Street Theater, just announced its 47th season! They share what's in store for the holidays, which shows will spark conversation, and talk about one show that's very different from anything they've ever done before.
Guests:
Rebecca Greene Udden
- Main Street Theater’s Founding (and current) Artistic Director
Dr. Chris Bronk
- Cybersecurity expert and Associate Professor, University of Houston
Chris Labash
- Associate Professor of Communication and Innovation at Carnegie Mellon University
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
As the first Hispanic woman sentenced to death in Texas, Melissa Lucio spent 15 years on death row.
With other cases that show similarities to Melissa Lucio’s story, what might they say about a pattern of prosecution and conviction? In particular, how are women impacted?
Some believe there seem to be structural problems in the criminal justice system and a pattern of poor, abused women getting convicted and sentenced due to discretionary power of prosecutors.
Could it be that when it’s up to the prosecutors to seek the death penalty, poor people don’t get defense?
In this conversation, we talk with a spiritual advisor and activist, who has been educating the public about the death penalty for over 30 years and author of the book “Dead Man Walking”. Also, we hear from an expert from the Death Penalty Information Center.
Guests:
Sister Helen Prejean
- Author, spiritual advisor and death penalty activist
Ngozi Ndulue
- Deputy Director, Death Penalty Information Center
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Have you ever experienced something so traumatic that you had a hard time trying to remember what happened?
Why would you ever confess to something you didn’t do?
According to research, women are more likely than men to be convicted of crimes, when no crime occurred. Data from the National Registry of Exonerations, which accounts for 3,062 exonerated individuals, estimates that nearly 70% of women who were exonerated had been convicted of crimes that didn't occur.
Was this the situation with Melissa Lucio?
A psychologist and law professor are here to take us through this discussion and to field listener calls. Also, we’ll be joined by the executive director of Death Penalty Action, the organization that has been coordinating the Free Melissa Lucio campaign.
Guests:
Professor Valena Beety
- Professor of Law at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University
- Author of Manifesting Justice: Wrongly Convicted Women Reclaim Their Rights (book to be released in June)
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Psychologist at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston
- Director of the Center for Violence Prevention
Abraham Bonowitz
- Co-founder and Executive Director of Death Penalty Action, the organization that has been coordinating the Free Melissa Lucio campaign on behalf of Melissa Lucio's son, John Lucio.
- Learn more at www.FreeMelissaLucio.org
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Melissa Lucio is the first Hispanic woman sentenced to death in Texas.
But this afternoon she was granted a stay from the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.
The Texas woman was days away from her execution, which was scheduled for this Wednesday.
“I thank God for my life," Lucio said in a statement.
"I am grateful the Court has given me the chance to live and prove my innocence ... I am deeply grateful to everyone who prayed for me and spoke out on my behalf.”
Today, we take a closer look at Melissa Lucio’s story and what this breaking news means for her case.
Filmmaker Sabrina Van Tassel is here. She directed the 2020 documentary The State of Texas vs. Melissa.
A law professor with expertise in capital punishment and criminal law also joins us, as well as a Texas State Representative who prayed with Melissa on death row.
Guests:
Kenneth Williams
- Professor of Law at South Texas College of Law
Sabrina Van Tassel
- French American journalist, director and writer of the documentary The State of Texas vs. Melissa
Rep. Lacey Hull
- Texas House of Representatives, 138th District, representing the Spring Branch area
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
How do you change burnout to resilience?
Diane Sieg, a resilience coach and former ER nurse, says, “Healthcare has always been challenging and stressful but today, more than ever, it requires one critical skill… Resilience.”
The pandemic has also led to the “Great Resignation” suggesting that workers everywhere may be experiencing some form of burnout.
Today, Diane Sieg is here to talk about overcoming stress from work and life, and finding resilience.
We hear how her work in healthcare has led her to these tools and how they can be applied to other stressful jobs and situations.
Have you experienced burnout?
How did you cope?
And do you wish you knew?
Guest:
Diane Sieg
- Speaker, author, resilience coach, and former ER nurse
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Houston has such an amazing food scene!
One chef at the center of it, who’s helped put Houston on the map, is Christine Ha.
She became a celebrity when she won MasterChef in 2012, and she has also written a New York Times-bestselling cookbook.
From being named a finalist for a 2022 James Beard Award to appearing on Top Chef: Houston and opening a restaurant during the pandemic, she’s been busy!
Today, we catch up with Houston chef and restauranteur Christine Ha. She talks about her projects, including a new campaign to raise awareness of the rare disease that caused her blindness -- and, of course, about food!
Guest:
Christine Ha
- Winner of MasterChef: Season 3 in 2012
- Author of the New York Times-bestselling cookbook Recipes from My Home Kitchen: Asian and American Comfort Food
- Finalist for the 2022 James Beard Award for Best Chef in the Texas region
- Owner of The Blind Goat and Xin Chao
- Xin Chao is nominated for "Restaurant of the Year" and Christine for "Chef of the Year" for the 2022 CultureMap Houston Tastemaker Award
- Featured as a guest in several episodes of Bravo’s Top Chef: Houston, currently airing
- Launched NMOSD Won’t Stop Me to raise awareness of the rare disease she lives with
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
COVID-19 might not be making as many headlines as a year ago, but it is still very much a reality. And its impact is still being felt as people continue to get sick or remember the loved ones they lost.
Can we finally relax, as guidelines change?
Or will we see more variants and new outbreaks in the US?
And how can we better assess situations where we should wear a mask, even though they’re no longer required in many places?
Today, we get a COVID update with one of our trusted local public health experts.
Plus, there will always be those who use times of crisis to their advantage. How did that happen during COVID’s most dire days?
An award-winning investigative reporter talks about his new book Pandemic, Inc.: Chasing the Capitalists and Thieves Who Got Rich While We Got Sick.
Guests:
Dr. Catherine Troisi
- Infectious disease epidemiologist with UTHealth School of Public Health in Houston
J. David McSwane
- Award-winning investigative reporter with Pro Publica
- His new book is Pandemic, Inc.: Chasing the Capitalists and Thieves Who Got Rich While We Got Sick
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
You never know what’s going on in other people’s lives.
They could be dealing with illness, divorce, depression, or other personal crises.
How do we stay positive when confronted by difficulty?
Today, we talk about how to find comfort, gratitude, and encouragement in today’s difficult world.
We talk with Emmy-nominated actor Roma Downey, known for her role in the hit TV show “Touched by an Angel.”
Her new book is Unexpected Blessings: 90 Inspirations to Nourish Your Soul and Open Your Heart.
Local faith leader Ben Young, with decades of experience helping families and individuals, is also here to talk about finding strength when coping with harsh realities.
How have you gotten through tough times?
What unexpected blessings came your way, just when you needed them?
Guests:
Roma Downey
- Emmy-nominated actor, producer and New York Times bestselling author
- For almost a decade, she starred in the hit CBS show Touched by an Angel
- Her new book is Unexpected Blessings: 90 Inspirations to Nourish Your Soul and Open Your Heart
Ben Young
- Pastor at Second Baptist Church
- Author of Survive the Day: Thriving in the Midst of Life's Storms
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3KFwaSNZC7k
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, the daughter of a Baptist preacher-father and a pianist-mother, Aretha Franklin grew up to be the Queen of Soul. Her many honors include the National Medal of Arts and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
And in 1987, she made history by becoming the first female artist to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
From April 22 - 24 at Jones Hall, the Houston Symphony will pay R-E-S-P-E-C-T to Aretha Franklin — the music legend who changed popular music forever.
Broadway star Capathia Jenkins joins us to talk about her performance of Franklin's hit songs for this tribute concert and how she feels a connection with the icon.
Also, we talk with Franklin’s biographer David Ritz, who describes her as an extraordinary artist that represents a "perfect storm" of things coming together.
Guests:
Capathia Jenkins
- Broadway singer and actress
- Performing the concert Aretha: Queen of Soul with the Houston Symphony at Jones Hall
David Ritz
- Best-selling writer, ghostwriter, novelist and lyricist
- Co-author of Aretha Franklin’s autobiography “From These Roots” (1999)
- Author of the biography “Respect: The Life of Aretha Franklin” (2014)
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Today is Good Friday, Passover begins at sundown, and Ramadan is in observance.
At this time of year, when religious holidays converge – sometimes by coincidence – how can we better understand these faiths and traditions?
How was each holiday initially recognized and celebrated?
How have those celebrations changed over time?
And how do they continue to hold such significance?
A religion scholar and a community leader are here to help guide us in our interfaith appreciation.
Plus, we preview Broadway at The Hobby Center’s 2022 – 23 season, which was just announced today!
Guests:
Sheri Johnson
- Director of Marketing at The Hobby Center
Dr. Christian Eberhart
- Professor of Religious Studies
- Director, Religious Studies Program at the University of Houston
Shariq Ghani
- Executive Director and Founder of the Minaret Foundation
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Have you ever experienced homelessness?
Do you know someone who has?
The 2020 Homeless Count and Survey via the Coalition for the Homeless shows that we can expect to see nearly 4,000 people experiencing homelessness at any given moment in the Houston region.
How does homelessness impact youth, in particular? What unique challenges and vulnerabilities do they face?
Today, we take a deep dive into youth homelessness – from misconceptions to increased risks to services available for help.
Local experts are here to share data, as well as first-hand accounts. And we hear from a Houston youth, who shares her personal story.
Plus, two Broadway stars talk about joining forces with Covenant House Texas to raise awareness of this issue.
Guests:
Dr. Diane Santa Maria
- Dean of the Cizik School of Nursing at UT Health Houston
Charles Rotramel
- CEO of reVision
“Zora”
- A Houston youth experiencing homelessness, residing at Covenant House Texas
Neil Berg
- Award-winning composer, lyricist, and producer
- Creator and co-producer of the Broadway touring concert, Neil Berg’s 100 Years of Broadway, as well as Neil Berg’s 50 Years of Rock & Roll and Neil Berg’s Pianomen
Rita Harvey
- Broadway actress, singer, and performer
Neil Berg will host and Rita Harvey will perform at Night of Broadway Stars, benefitting Covenant House Texas on May 26th at the Wortham Center.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Based on data from the National Hotline, Texas reports the second-highest number of human trafficking cases in the U.S., with Houston being often referred to as a major hub.
How do you recognize human trafficking?
Changing how society perceives and values girls and women may make a significant impact.
Have numbers gone up during the pandemic?
Experts from the Houston Mayor’s Office and Prairie View A&M University join us to discuss human trafficking – its prevalence, its impact on girls and women in particular, and the work being done to prevent it.
We also talk with a survivor and national advocate for criminal justice reform.
If you see one or several warning signs and suspect human trafficking activity, contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center’s hotline by making an anonymous call to 1-888-373-7888 or text BeFree (233733).
Guests:
Minal Patel Davis
- Director of the Houston Mayor’s Office of Human Trafficking and Domestic Violence
Dr. Camille Gibson
- Professor and Interim Dean of Prairie View A&M University’s College of Juvenile Justice
- Executive Director of Prairie View A&M’s Texas Juvenile Crime Prevention Center
Cyntoia Brown-Long
- Survivor of sex trafficking and criminal justice reform advocate
- Author of “Free Sin-Toya: My Search for Redemption in the American Prison System”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
After 55 years, Society for the Performing Arts has changed its name to Performing Arts Houston.
Today, the new name officially launched, along with a new website, and a new logo. And they’re announcing their new 2022-23 season!
We get the scoop on how the organization formerly known as SPA is shaking things up.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-GML6PRanWc
Plus, have you always dreamed of visiting space? Flying among the stars?
Today is the International Day of Human Space Flight.
Experts are here to discuss the history of space flight, as well as new opportunities to visit and continue to explore space – from the private industry to putting a human back on the moon.
Guests:
Meg Booth
- CEO of Performing Arts Houston
Chelsea Gohd
- Staff writer at SPACE.COM
Greg Brennecka
- Staff scientist and Cosmochemist at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
- Author of IMPACT: How Rocks from Space Led to Life, Culture, and Donkey Kong
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
There's no doubt that Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson is aware of the progress she represents in her journey to the Supreme Court. But what does this mean for the rest of America's judicial system?
There are some who still have comments and questions about what her appointment means for the highest court in the land.
With the issues that the Republican Senators kept bringing up at the hearings, were they just giving political theatre? Most of us need help in further understanding these issues.
And when it comes to understanding how the justices work together and how decisions are reached, it's important to also understand the impact on this process each new justice holds.
Today, legal experts – including a Houston professor who was Judge Jackson’s classmate at Harvard Law School – join us to discuss the significance of Jackson's appointment and to field listeners' calls.
Guests:
Charles “Rocky” Rhodes
- Professor of Law and the Charles Weigel II Research Professor of State and Federal Constitutional Law at South Texas College of Law Houston
Njeri Mathis Rutledge
- Professor of Law at South Texas College of Law Houston
- Author and Opinion Columnist for USA Today
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Cars covered in jewels!
Fur-covered cars!
Cars that look like they’re fire-breathing!
And over-the-top slab cars!
They’re not just cars, but Art-On-Wheels. And you’ll see hundreds of them at the 35th annual Houston Art Car Parade tomorrow – the first parade since the pandemic!
Houston has been at the forefront of art car culture for decades, and today we celebrate the art form and its ties to our city.
Art car artists, historians, and parade organizers from the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art join us to preview the parade and talk about all-things Art Car.
Guests:
Tommy Ralph Pace
- Executive Director of The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art
Pete Gershon
- Curator of Programs of The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art
- Art Car Historian
Harrod Blank
- Known as “The Godfather of the Art Car”
- Documentary Film Maker, Art Car Artist, and Author of "Art Cars: The Cars, the Artists, the Obsession, the Craft”
Rickey Polidore
- Art Car Artist
- Visual Arts Curriculum Specialist, Houston Independent School District
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
With jazz musicians born and bred here in the Bayou City, Houston is steeped in the world of jazz!
But what is the history of jazz?
One local jazz historian and visual artist take us on the journey of how this genre of music originated in African-American communities.
How does the jazz art form speak to you?
A legendary Grammy award-winning jazz saxophonist that toured with Whitney Houston for over seven years and will always be remembered for his sax solo on Houston’s hit single "I Will Always Love You”, talks about how jazz speaks to him as "music of freedom".
When it comes to presenting the best jazz the world has to offer and developing the next generation of young jazz artists, Houston performing arts organization, DACAERMA, will introduce the music of Jalen and the Jalen Baker Trio at two live events this month.
Also, members of the famous New Orleans musical dynasty, the Batiste family, share sentiments on the legacy and passing of Chris Owens – "Queen of the Vieux Carré" .
Tune in as Houston jazz experts, artists and presenters join us to talk about what’s happening locally and nationally in the world of jazz, while listeners call in to share their comments and questions.
Guests:
Kirk Whalum
- Grammy award-winning jazz saxophonist/songwriter and Texas Southern University alumnus
Leo Boucher
- Director of Marketing and Audience Development for DACAMERA
Jalen Baker
- DACAMERA Featured Young Artist
Tierney Malone
- Houston jazz historian, visual artist, DJ and the host of Houston Jazz Spotlight
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Do you love singing competitions?
The latest is the American Song Contest, airing Monday nights at 7 pm on NBC and available on Peacock streaming. It’s inspired by the Eurovision Song Contest – with all 50 states, U.S. territories and DC vying for the top prize.
What are the challenges of producing such a massive reality competition? What is it really like behind the scenes?
The producers from Sweden will share how they were able to bring the American Song Contest to the U.S., how they picked the acts, and the voting process.
And fresh off of his "Mr. Independent" performance this week, 19-year-old Dallas singer and self-taught musician Grant Knoche will talk about his upbringing and give insight on what went into his stage production.
We also talk to a self-proclaimed “Favorite American Eurovision Fan” and YouTube blogger who’s been following Eurovision for over a decade.
Guests:
Anders Lenhoff and Christer Björkman
- Executive Producers of NBC’s American Song Contest
Grant Knoche
- Texas contestant on American Song Contest
Alesia Michelle
- Eurovision blogger and YouTuber
Eurovision 2022 Songs Most Talked About:
- Recap of all 40 songs
- Kalush Orchestra - Stefania – Ukraine
- Sam Ryder - SPACE MAN - United Kingdom
- Cornelia Jakobs - Hold Me Closer – Sweden
- Mahmood & BLANCO - Brividi – Italy
- Chanel - SloMo – Spain
- Subwoolfer - Give That Wolf A Banana - Norway
- Lordi - Hard Rock Hallelujah -Finland – Eurovision 2006
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Celebrities have recently brought their medical conditions into the spotlight -- from Bruce Willis and aphasia to Jada Pinkett Smith and alopecia.
But what exactly are those conditions?
What should we know about them in order to better understand what they and others are going through, as well as to be aware of these conditions for the sake of our own health?
Today, it’s Ask-a-Doctor.
Do you have burning questions about these or other medical conditions?
What about questions about COVID? Allergies? Or even heat-related safety concerns with summer right around the corner?
Our medical expert from UT Health Houston is here to field listeners' calls and questions.
Guest:
Dr. Elena Zamora
- Assistant Professor of Family and Community Medicine at UT Health – Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
It’s time to talk tacos, margaritas, chips and salsa, fajitas, and more!
Nothing hits the spot better than sizzling fajitas…or crispy tacos …or just “chips and queso”.
Today, it’s all about Tex-Mex! We'll talk about what you love to cook or order, and your “go-to” local restaurants.
An award-winning Houston chef and food writer chats with listeners who call in to share their favorite dishes and what makes Tex-Mex such a fine food and family tradition.
Plus, Alley Theatre just announced their 2022–2023 season! We'll hear about what they’re presenting to Houston audiences from a world premiere about a female bullfighter to a new adaption of a Christmas Carol.
Guests:
Rob Melrose
- Artistic Director of Alley Theatre
- https://www.alleytheatre.org/season
Adán Medrano
- Houston chef and food writer
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
“I am writing to tell you about a matter that is essentially personal, but will result in some changes at work ... I will be transitioning my gender.” That was the statement CEO Wynne Nowland made to employees where she works. In today's show, Nowland will share her personal journey of coming out and her mission of humanizing trans individuals.
We will also discuss legislation impacting the transgender community, and in particular, trans youth.
According to a report from the Williams Institute at UCLA, 15 states – including Texas – have enacted or are considering laws that would restrict access to gender-affirming care for young people.
How have these issues reached the national stage in such a polarizing manner?
In recognition of “Transgender Day of Visibility”, a legal expert is here to discuss the latest developments in transgender laws and callers share their questions and concerns.
Guests:
Wynne Nowland
- Trans woman and activist
- CEO of Bradley & Parker
Pete Makopoulos-Senftleber
- Attorney and President of Trans-Legal AID Clinic Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
US actor Will Smith holds his award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for "King Richard" as he attends the 2022 Vanity Fair Oscar Party following the 94th Oscars at the The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills, California on March 27, 2022. (Photo by Patrick T. FALLON / AFP) (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images)
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Most were shocked by what we saw Sunday night at the Academy Awards, and there has been a lot said and written about the violent Will Smith-Chris Rock altercation.
Often, Oscar night is an event most view in a family setting. So, how do we talk to our children about what they saw?
How did it affect you?
Are you having trouble processing it?
Today, as we take calls from our listeners, we talk with our NPR TV critic, alicensed therapist, and a mental health counselor to help us understand what we can all learn from what happened - in terms of conflict resolution and the way we handle triggers.
Plus, we continue to highlight Houston theater companies like A.D. Players, as they share what's in store for their 2022-2023 season line-up at The George Theater.
Guests:
Jake Speck
- Executive Director of A.D. Players
Jayme McGhan
- Incoming Executive Artistic Director
Eric Deggans
- NPR’s TV Criticand author of Race-Baiter: How the media welds dangerous words to divide a nation
Veronica Cavazos
- Licensed Professional Counselor with Community Health Network
Dr. Richelle Whittaker
- Educational psychologist
- Parenting advisor
- CEO and Founder of Next Steps (which provides educational counseling and parent coaching)
- Text "parenting" to 1-833-638-5442 for free parenting tips and weekly encouragement
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Have you ever gotten a really negative comment online and wondered, “Why did that person write that?”
With his new book, Conversations with People who Hate Me -12 Things I Learned from Talking to Internet Strangers , based on his award-winning podcast of the same name, Dylan Marron takes us on his social experimental journey of connecting adversarial internet strangers through phone calls.
In this episode of Town Square, Marron shares how he connects with his own detractors to chat with him on the phone — conversations that revealed surprising and fascinating insights.
Connecting everyone from old friends to complete strangers — Marron helps us explore why we believe what we believe, how we relate to each other on the internet, and just what a phone call can accomplish. Plus, we’ll hear about his new role as a writer on the Emmy-winning TV hit series, Ted Lasso.
Guest:
Dylan Marron
- Author of the book, Conversations with People Who Hate Me
- Podcast host and new writer for the Emmy-winning TV series Ted Lasso.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Earlier today, President Biden landed in Rzeszów, a small city in Poland near the Ukraine border.
This town is the first stop for many people trying to flee the war, and has become the epicenter of the refugee crisis.
According to NPR, it’s where more than 2 million Ukrainians have fled since the war began.
While in Poland, the President will get a briefing on the humanitarian crisis and meet with refugees.
Today, we unpack these latest developments – from yesterday’s NATO press conference to humanitarian aid being offered to the White House’s recent announcement that the US will welcome up to 100,000 Ukrainian refugees.
As we all struggle to better understand this ongoing crisis, we welcome Houstonians' questions and concerns.
Guests:
Michael Pelletier
- Executive Director of the University of Houston’s Institute for Global Engagement
- Former US Ambassador to the Republic of Madagascar and the Union of the Comoros
Zachary Zwald
- Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of Houston
- Director of the University of Houston Center for International and Comparative Studies
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
It has been one month since Russia began its assault on Ukraine.
According to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, there have been approximately 2,600 civilian casualties in Ukraine: 1000 killed and 1,600 injured.
A senior NATO military officer has estimated that since the start of the invasion Russia has suffered between 30,000 and 40,000 casualties, including those killed, wounded, taken prisoner or missing in action.
Today, President Biden, who is in Brussels for meetings with NATO, the G7, and the European Council, held a news conference.
We take a closer look at what he had to say and what it all means. Plus, we explore the latest headlines and address listeners' calls, questions and concerns.
Guest:
Dr. Richard Stoll
- Professor of Political Science and Faculty Scholar, Rice University Baker Institute
- Senior fellow and a member of the advisory council of the Institute for Sustainable Peace
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
As Ukraine and Russia are expected to have further conversations and President Biden is headed to Europe next week for NATO to discuss ongoing defense efforts, what will China's involvement be?
With more sanctions and weapons deployment, there is much more to discuss within the latest Russia-Ukraine headlines.
But first, we are joined by Ukrainian married couple Dmitriy and Yuliya Kozhushanova, co-owners of Dance Life Houston who are working to raise money to help get Ukrainian orphans to safety.
Dance Life Houston will host free group dance lessons on Thursdays at 8 pm and Fridays at 7 pm. Lessons are free with a donation of at least $1, and all of the money from sales on those days will be donated to help refugees.
The Kozhushanova's also share their personal story of Yuliya's grandmother in Mariupol and how they haven’t been able to get in contact with her since the attacks began.
Guests:
Zachary Zwald
- Faculty member in the Department of Political Science at the University of Houston
- Director of the University of Houston Center for International and Comparative Studies
Dmitriy and Yuliya Kozhushanova
- Co-Owners of Dance Life Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
What if you forgot to file your taxes last year?
If you have a W2 and own a business, can you file both together or do you have to file each of them separately?
These are just a few questions addressed in today's episode about filing for this year's tax season.
A tax expert and Site Captain for the AARP Foundation gives insight and answers questions from our callers to help them through their personal and professional tax filing concerns, and offers tax preparation services free of charge at taxaide.aarp foundation.org.
And as we continue to feature all that's new for the upcoming Houston performing arts scene, Houston Ballet artistic director Stanton Welch takes us on a journey into their 2022-2023 lineup that includes three world premiers.
Guests:
Stanton Welch
- Artistic Director, Houston Ballet
Max Zimmerman
- Tax Attorney, Site Captain for AARP Foundation
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
With over 75 million books in print worldwide, Harlan Coben is the #1 New York Times author of 33 novels, including Win, The Boy From the Woods, Run Away, Fool Me Once, Tell No One, and the renowned Myron Bolitar series.
In addition to having books published in 45 languages around the globe, Coben is also the creator and executive producer of several Netflix television dramas, including Stay Close, The Stanger, and Safe.
Today, we are talking with the bestselling author about how he approaches his writing style and about his 35th book out now entitled The Match, where Coben returns to Wilde, the man with a childhood shrouded in mystery who appeared one day in the Ramapo Mountains with no memory of how he got there or the mother and father who abandoned him.
Fans can attend the virtual signing at Murder by the Book at 6pm CT on Thursday, March 17.
Guest:
Harlan Coben
- Author
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
How you approach and handle major miles stones in your life often helps predict the outcome.
Do you greet bad news or a negative health diagnosis with anger, or with hope?
Studies have shown a positive attitude can, in some cases, lead to a better outcome. Especially when you find your purpose, fall in love with yourself, and decide to live a non-toxic life.
In today's episode, we talk with Houston beauty and wellness coach, award-winning businesswoman, and new author, TaShell Williams, about how after a near death experience at the age of 22, she took a major health crisis and used it as an inspirational journey to write her book One Lung to Live - How a Tragedy Produces Inspiration & Life Lessons That Will Help You Become The Best Version of Yourself.
But first, we take a look at how live theatre and performances are coming back and arts organizations are already deep in planning for what comes next. We talk with Houston’s Theatre Under The Stars to discuss details of the announcement of its upcoming 2022-2023 season that includes a fantastic collection of shows, including a world premiere production and more.
Guests:
Dan Knechtges
- Artisitc Director, Theater Under the Stars
TaShell Williams
- Certified Wellness Coach, award-winning entrepreneur, and author of the book One Lung to Live
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Whether in our personal or professional life, there are women who have become very impactful role models for many of us.
They've become symbols of power, inspiration, and nurturing forces in cultures around the world.
Historically, even women have had an inspirational impact during different generations and eras when men were most dominant.
In this episode, callers share their personal stories about the impact women have made in their lives and in the community. We also talk with an expert about the work that's being done in the Religion and Public Life Program at Rice University to amplify women’s voices in conversations about religion’s role in the world, where so often men tend to be at the forefront of public discussions about religion.
Guest:
Dr. Rachel Schneider
- Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Religion and Public Life Program at Rice University
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 - the federal civil rights law prohibiting sex-based discrimination in any educational institution that receives federal funding, and giving women the equal opportunity to play sports.
Last month, U.S. women soccer players won a $24 million lawsuit against the U.S. Soccer Federation over unequal pay with men’s team players, making the historical leap in highlighting the civil rights journey of women across the sports and cultural landscape.
But inequity in women's sports goes beyond pay. It also includes access to facilities, fair media coverage, and resources.
Today, we discuss what equity should look like in sports and why it's important. We also review how Brittney Griner’s detention in Russia again exposes the male-female gap in sports, putting an even bigger spotlight on the inequities that exist between the top male and female athletes in the United States.
Guests:
Louise Radnofsky
- Sports Reporter for the Wall Street Journal
Carol Stiff
- Women’s Basketball Hall of Famer
- Former VP of Programming at ESPN
- Chairperson of the Women’s Sports Network Advisory Board
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson - Lee
- United States Representative for District 18, Texas
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 - the federal civil rights law prohibiting sex-based discrimination in any educational institution that receives federal funding, and giving women the equal opportunity to play sports.
Last month, U.S. women soccer players won a $24 million lawsuit against the U.S. Soccer Federation over unequal pay with men’s team players, making the historical leap in highlighting the civil rights journey of women across the sports and cultural landscape.
But inequity in women's sports goes beyond pay. It also includes access to facilities, fair media coverage, and resources.
Today, we discuss what equity should look like in sports and why it's important. We also review how Brittney Griner’s detention in Russia again exposes the male-female gap in sports, putting an even bigger spotlight on the inequities that exist between the top male and female athletes in the United States.
Guests:
Louise Radnofsky
- Sports Reporter for the Wall Street Journal
Carol Stiff
- Women’s Basketball Hall of Famer
- Former VP of Programming at ESPN
- Chairperson of the Women’s Sports Network Advisory Board
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson - Lee
- United States Representative for District 18, Texas
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
NPR is reporting that Russian forces are still meeting Ukrainian resistance, and have only made "moderate progress" toward some cities in the past 24 hours.
However, a direct Russian strike has reportedly devastated a maternity hospital in Mariupol.
Are cease-fires being violated?
Where do humanitarian routes actually lead?
What’s going on in Chernobyl?
And how are other countries continuing to respond to the crisis?
Today, we follow the latest developments and headlines in regards to Ukraine.
We also look at the crisis from the viewpoints of social media, cybersecurity, and cyberwarfare.
Guests:
Dr. Chris Bronk
- Associate Professor of Computer and Information Systems, University of Houston
- Director of the Cybersecurity Graduate Program
- Former Foreign Service Officer & Senior Advisor to the U.S. State Department
Ronan O'Malley
- Director of Programs, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Evolving gender roles.
The impact of the #MeToo movement.
Fighting for pay equity.
These are just some of the issues facing women on this International Women’s Day, when many women still find themselves needing to prove what it means to be an empowered woman globally and locally in 2022.
But with issues like these, how do we overcome gender bias in our communities, our families, and in our schools?
Many believe it starts with young girls: teaching them what it means to be a woman in this day and age, and the importance of education – although girls in some countries aren't allowed to go to school.
In developing the Keeping Girls in School Act, UNICEF USA placed emphasis on gender equity and girls’ empowerment through equal access to education when it was reported that remote learning tended to be less accessible to girls than boys. Additionally, the organization found that some fathers even discouraged their daughters from using the internet during COVID-19.
In this episode, our experts discuss how we all can #BreakTheBias collectively, and they field listeners' questions on the gender pay gap and other concerns. But first in the show, we get an understanding of Biden’s ban on Russian oil imports and how that might impact Houston.
Guests:
Ed Hirs
- Energy Fellow at the University of Houston
Rachel Wisthuff
- Director of Policy & Advocacy at UNICEF USA
Elizabeth Gregory
- Director of the University of Houston Women’s, Gender & Sexuality Studies Program and the University of Houston Institute for Research on Women, Gender & Sexuality
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
NPR reports that more than 1.5 million people are fleeing Ukraine, creating Europe's fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War Two.
Today, we bring you the personal story of Houstonian who had been working in Ukraine but fled the country last month – and is now back home in Texas.
What did she experience while in Ukraine? What did she go through in order to get out of the country?
Want to support the people in Ukraine? Here's a list of charities via NPR.
We also have an update on COVID, in light of the CDC’s recent loosening of mask guidelines.
Some of Texas' largest public school districts, including HISD, have also dropped their mask mandates for students, teachers and other staff as cases of COVID in the state continue to decrease.
Is the pandemic finally on its way out?
Guests:
Dr. James McDeavitt
- Executive vice president and dean of clinical affairs at Baylor College of Medicine
Lindsey Murff
- International teacher who lived and worked in Kyiv, Ukraine, but evacuated on Feb. 1 back to her hometown of Houston
Ambassador Michael Pelletier
- Executive Director, University of Houston Institute for Global Engagement
- Former US Ambassador to the Republic of Madagascar and the Union of the Comoros
UH will address the Impact of the Russian-Ukraine Conflict with a panel discussion featuring experts in History, Political Science and Foreign Affairs, Thursday, March 10, 6pm at UH Honors College Commons located in the MD Anderson Library, Room 212.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In a major local milestone, the Houston Livestock Show Rodeo is back for the first time since the pandemic.
We're broadcasting live from NRG Stadium to hear about this year's sports, concerts, food, and more, as well as about the challenges of coming back from the pandemic.
The Houston Rodeo is about a lot of things - scholarships, education, volunteers, and its importance to the area’s economy and to the sport of rodeo.
Besides the rodeo sports, people also come to the Houston Rodeo for the food. There's the amazing BBQ, the over-the-top concessions, and even fine dining.
And what event traditionally brings in the largest concert audience? It's Go Tejano Day!
In trying to capture all the excitement of everything that’s happening, our host, Ernie Manouse, gets a real taste of the rodeo by sampling some of the new food offerings.
From Tejano Day ...to bull riding …to concerts and exhibits, we talk with the people in charge of making it all happen.
Guests:
Chris Boleman
- President and CEO
Adrian Izaguirre
- Go Tejano Day Committee Member
Katelyn Scates
- Director of Sports & Event Presentations
Bryce Redo
- Three-time CPRA Bullfighter of the Year
Jason Fletcher
- General Manager of The Ranch Saloon + Steakhouse
Brooks Bradford, Jr.
- Chairman of The Commercial Exhibits Committee
Jason Kane
- Director of Entertainment and Concert Production
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Screenings.
Healthy eating and exercise.
Gender bias in medicine.
When it comes to women's health, these are just some of the leading health concerns impacting women.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, women who are caregivers for children, adults, or people with chronic illnesses or disabilities have a greater risk for poor physical and mental health, including depression and anxiety.
How can women better focus on their own overall health, while having so much responsibility caring for others?
This year's national theme for Women's History Month is “Providing Healing, Promoting Hope.”
In this episode, we talk about the ceaseless work of female caregivers and frontline workers, and the need for self-care. Our guest is Dr. Frene' LaCour-Chestnut of the Women's Fund, who addresses various health conditions affecting women and fields questions from listeners.
Plus, the U.N. says 1 million refugees have left Ukraine in the last 7 days. We talk about this escalating crisis and learn more about the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on the U.S. with Congressman Marc Veasey, a member of the House Armed Services Committee.
Guests:
U.S. Congressman Marc Veasey, 33rd District of Texas
- Member of the House Armed Services Committee
- Member of U.S. Helsinki Commission
Dr. Frene' LaCour-Chestnut
- Associate Professor, Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Houston College of Medicine
- Advisory Board member for The Women's Fund
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Today, we celebrate National Read Across American Day, where the national theme for 2022 is Create & Celebrate a Nation of Diverse Readers.
Were you a bookworm growing up?
Did you find a love of reading as an adult?
What kind of impact has it made on your life?
Many people feel books can shape who we are today. They can open our eyes to the world.
For the first time, National Education Association is hosting a special Read Across America event focused on young adult readers. The YA Author Chat is tonight at 6pm CT on Facebook.
But lately, there's been an issue about representation in books and recent challenges to reading materials in schools, where Katy ISD students organized to distribute books about racism, LGBTQ+ issues on their own.
We discuss those issues, and listeners call in to share stories of books that changed their lives.
Plus, at the top of the show, a political expert provides an update on developments in the Ukraine crisis.
Guests:
Dr. Richard Stoll
- Professor of Political Science and Faculty Scholar, Rice University Baker Institute
- Senior fellow, and a member of, the advisory council of the Institute for Sustainable Peace
Becky Pringle
- President of the National Education Association
Cameron Samuels
- Senior at Seven Lakes High School in Katy ISD
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
With the 2022 primary election underway as the first major election under Texas’ new voting law, the law itself seems to be one of the strictest election laws in the nation. Republicans are arguing it’s necessary to ensure election integrity. Democrats are countering that the law amounts to voter suppression.
In this special episode of “Town Square,” political consultants Dallas Jones and Gary Polland of Houston Public Media’s Red, White and Blue discuss their thoughts and insights on the current political climate and how things could look for the November election.
Plus, we check in with our reporters live from the polls and "another torrent of problems at Harris County polling sites."
We also hear from Annise Parker, former Mayor of Houston, who describes her personal experience with voter suppression, and how she thinks it's affecting this year's primary. In her case, this includes confusing ID requirements, which have been reported to disproportionately impact communities of color and transgender individuals.
Listen in as our callers share their experiences at the polls and get their questions answered by our experts.
Guests:
Gary Polland and Dallas Jones
- Political consultants and hosts of Red, White, and Blue
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
From Germany arming Ukraine with weapons, to the unprecedented sanctions on Russia, developments and impacts of Russia’s attacks on Ukraine continue.
In addition to wondering what's happening with African students and other people trying to leave Ukraine, there are Texans who have relatives in Ukraine that are preparing for war and want to know how to provide the most support possible.
Today, we talk with a member of the Ukrainian American Society of Texas not only to understand what their organization is about and what it's doing to aid the people of Ukraine but also to learn how Americans can help.
And, there's more focus on Texas, as the state is set for the nation's first 2022 primary election. Elections official say Harris County is changing how they allocate voting machines to avoid the hours-long lines seen in the March 2020 primary.
However, many questions and concerns still arise. For example, those who are independent voters want to know if they can vote for a Republican candidate now, but vote Democratic in November.
Can you vote with an expired drivers license?
And what if you are registered in one city in Texas, but are currently residing or traveling through another city in Texas. Can you still vote in any polling place throughout Texas?
Chrystya Geremesz
- Board member of the Ukrainian American Society of Texas
Isabel Longoria
-
- Harris County Elections Administrator
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Russian forces are advancing toward the Ukrainian capital city of Kyiv.
Russian President Vladimir Putin called on Ukraine’s military to end its resistance and cooperate with Russia’s military.
But Ukrainians guarding a Black Sea island issued a defiant response when Russia demanded surrender. Some 13 guards were killed defending the island.
Meanwhile, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is driving up oil prices.
Those are some of the latest headlines from NPR and Houston Public Media.
Today, we continue to examine and to try to understand what is happening in Ukraine and its impact here in Houston and abroad – from its effect on global energy prices and military families to implications of this conflict for nuclear proliferation, and ways to help the people of Ukraine.
Guests:
Gabriel Collins
- Rice University Baker Institute Fellow in Energy and Environmental Regulatory Affairs
William French
- Retired U.S. Navy Vice Admiral
- CEO of the Armed Forces YMCA of Virginia
Zachary Zwald
- Faculty member in the Department of Political Science at the University of Houston
- Director of the UH Center for International and Comparative Studies.
Ronan O’Malley
- Director of Programs for the World Affairs Council of Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Ukrainian Americans in the Houston area are watching the Russian invasion closely. Many of the estimated 5,000 Ukrainians here have relatives back home, in danger.
We know a lot of this can be confusing and difficult to comprehend, but even if we think we don't have a direct connection to Ukraine, the invasion will still affect us.
Today, we look at the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict from a humanitarian, economic, and political perspective. Also, News 88.7 reporter Andrew Schneider brings us his exclusive conversation with a former US Army captain recently located in the Donbas region in south-eastern Ukraine.
Richard J. Stoll, Ph.D.
- Albert Thomas Professor of Political Science, Rice University
- Faculty scholar at the Baker Institute
- Senior fellow and a member of the advisory council of the Institute for Sustainable Peace.
Vitalii Tarasiuk
- Consul General of Ukraine in Houston
Mark Kilbane
- Former U.S. Army Captain
Andrew Schneider, Houston Public Media
- News 88.7 politics and government reporter
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
He's done honorable work in public service, including being a member of President Obama's State Legislators for Health Reform, serving as Chair of the Texas House County Affairs Committee, and enacting policies to better the Houston community. But after having represented District 147 in the Texas State Legislature since 1991, Garnet Coleman has decided to retire effective February 28, 2022.
“I am proud to have represented the people of District 147 for the last 30 plus years. I hope that I have served them well and look forward to continuing to serve our community in a non-elected capacity," said Coleman in a press release.
But how did he decide on a life in public service?
What have the past 30 years been like in the Texas Legislature?
In this conversation with Representative Coleman, we welcomed calls, questions, comments, and messages of appreciation as he reflected on the challenges and triumphs of serving the people of Texas.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Have you ever felt like you weren’t qualified or worthy of your accomplishments?
You find yourself doubting your abilities - feeling like a fraud and that somehow everyone else is smarter than you, despite all your hard work and everything you’ve achieved. So, instead of positively and mindfully accepting your achievement, you tell yourself you don't deserve it.
Surprisingly, about 9% - 82% of people go around feeling this way about themselves - like they’re an imposter. Albert Einstein went through it. Actors Tom Hanks and Viola Davis have even gone through it.
"What we should understand is that this imposter syndrome isn't a medical condition, nor is it a mental health disorder. That’s the good news! It’s a phenomenon of an unhealthy bias we have about ourselves while struggling with our inner critic," says Certified Mindfulness Teacher, Dr. Gail Gazelle.
But where do these thoughts and feelings come from?
How do they weigh us down?
And how can we overcome them?
Today, we tackle imposter syndrome as listeners call in with their questions, comments, and share their own personal stories. Additionally, we discuss the latest on the developments in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and try to understand how it will affect the United States.
Dr. Richard J. Stoll, Ph.D.
- Professor of Political Science and Faculty Scholar, Rice University Baker Institute
- Senior fellow and a member of the advisory council of the Institute for Sustainable Peace
Dr. Gail Gazelle
- Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School
- Master Certified Coach for physicians and physician leaders
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
We are all familiar with the term.
Some have been led to outrage by it, while others are adamant about it.
Yet, there also seems to be confusion about what it is.
Today, we define, explain, and take your questions about Critical Race Theory.
In the past year, more than 35 states have introduced more than 150 bills limiting what schools can teach about race-politics in American history.
Critical race theory – what is it?
Is it what some people think it is?
How is it being restricted in Texas? In recent headlines, Texas now requires new charter schools to ensure they won’t teach critical race theory, and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick proposes ending university tenure to combat critical race theory teachings.
If you’re a parent, how have you seen reactions for – or against it – affect your child’s school? And how can we help further a constructive dialogue about this issue?
Dr. Vida A. Robertson
- Associate Professor of English and Humanities
- Director of the Center for Critical Race Studies at the University of Houston-Downtown
Dr. James Thomas Jones, III
- Associate Professor of History at Prairie View A&M University
Dr. Sumi Cho
- Director of Strategic Initiatives at The African American Policy Forum
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In February every year, for Black History Month, our country focuses on African Americans who have helped shape the nation and honors their contributions and sacrifices. It’s also a time to celebrate the Black community’s rich cultural heritage, triumphs and adversities that are part of our country's history.
And while we generally tend to talk about history as something that has happened in the past, it continues to happen in the present.
An example of this is the achievement of speed skater Erin Jackson, who became the first Black woman to win Olympic gold in speed skating at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. Jackson is also the first American to win the race since 1994. And what makes her win even more special is that she made history during Black History Month.
This specific period for acknowledgement of African American culture started out as only a week-long celebration, but somehow it turned into a month-long event and is now celebrated in multiple countries across the globe.
But why is it only in February?
Who started it?
Which U.S. President first recognized it?
Today, our experts help us explore the history of Black History Month, share historical facts to enlighten us, and explain the some of these historical moments of note in detail. We also take listener questions and comments, as we tip our hats to those who worked to bring us this annual celebration of Black history.
Guests:
Dr. Linda Reed
- Associate Professor of history, University of Houston
- Interim Chair of the African American Studies department, University of Houston
Frank Jackson
- Former Mayor for the City of Prairie View
- Member of the African Renaissance and Diaspora Network
- Member of the World Conference of Mayors Historical Black Towns and Settlements Alliance
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Two news stories are capturing our attention these days:
Early Primary Voting here in Harris County and the mounting concerns along the border between Russia and Ukraine – both stories worthy of our attention.
Today, we start with understanding the implication of the new rules and regulations surrounding our voting here in Texas. Some would say there is a problem, others would say the rules are working.
Bottom line – are all legal voters who wish to vote able to cast a primary ballot during the current early voting period? And what could all this mean for the upcoming November elections?
Then we shift focus to a current global hot spot – the Ukrainian boarder. What can we expect in the upcoming days and weeks? What does Russia want? And what is the reality of the situation?
Guests:
Isabel Longoria
- Harris County Elections Administrator
Richard J. Stoll
- Albert Thomas Professor of Political Science, Rice University
- Director of Undergraduate Studies in the Political Science Department
- Director of the Managerial Studies program
- Rice faculty scholar at the Baker Institute
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
What are your favorite Valentine’s memories?
Was it the innocence of exchanging Valentine’s day cards in grade school? Maybe you got engaged on Valentine’s Day.
Or does the holiday bring back cringeworthy memories?
Bad dates, heart break, gifts gone wrong.
Valentines Day, love it or hate it, comes back every year.
Today, we invite listeners to call the Town Square "Love Line" to share their best and worst Valentine's Day experiences, and offer suggestions for how to create the perfect holiday celebration.
Joining host Ernie Manouse to field listener calls is:
ReShonda Tate
- Managing Editor of The Defender
- Reporter and storyteller who has worked as a TV anchor, written for the National Enquirer, and published over 50 novels
- Screenwriter, who is currently producing her first movie to be released this winter
- NAACP Image Award Winner
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In Minnesota recently, Amir Locke became another high-profile victim of a no-knock warrant as he was shot and killed by a Minneapolis police officer while lying on his couch at home.
Some say no-knock warrants are a much-needed tool in fighting crime and drugs in our community. Others are strongly opposed - saying they are a “death warrant” recklessly carried out without regard to life or liberty.
Either way, there is no denying that the media is filled with stories of these raids going wrong, with civilians and officers alike being caught in the crossfire.
So, what is to be done?
How did we historically get to this point?
Where does the state of Texas stand on these warrants?
In this conversation, we take listener calls and our experts help us take a deep dive into no-knock warrants to get a better understanding of this practice – why we have it, how it is being used, and should this practice be ended.
GUESTS:
Njeri Mathis Rutledge
- Professor at South Texas College of Law Houston
- Opinion Columnist for USA Today
DeAndre' Hutchison
- Sergeant with the Houston Police Department
- Executive Director of the Afro-American Police Officers League (AAPOL)
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
From Justice of the Peace to U.S. Congressman, he's spent a life in public service, representing the people of Texas’ 9th District.
Today, we spend the whole hour with Representative Al Green.
What has he learned about Houstonians, and about Washington over the years?
What are his thoughts on President Biden, and about our current political divide?
And what about his bill to create a Department of Reconciliation? And his work toward removing and renaming painful symbols of this country’s past?
We talk with Al Green about his career and causes, and the issues that we need to confront together more than ever as Americans. The Congressman also fields listeners' questions and concerns.
Al Green has served as a Democratic U.S. representative for Texas's 9th congressional district since 2005. The 9th district includes most of southwestern Houston, part of Fort Bend County and most of Missouri City.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences announced their nominations for the 94th Academy Awards - starting the debate about who will win this year’s Oscars.
It seems that this year’s Oscar favorite is The Power of the Dog – the movie that leads the field with 12 nominations.
Some films and performances weren’t so lucky though. With Lady Gaga being overlooked for her role in House of Gucci, it seems to have caused a chaotic Best Actress race. However, when it comes to Hollywood and the Oscars commitment to diversity and inclusion, it looks like they’re heading in the right direction when it comes to women, African Americans, and Latinos this year.
Who are you routing for?
Who do you think was snubbed?
In this episode , film industry experts share their insight the recent Oscar nominations, while our listeners chime in on what they feel are the best and the worst of the 2021 film cycle. We also hear from representatives from the Hollywood Film Critics Association, Dallas-Fort Worth Film Critics Association, and Entertainment Weekly.
See complete 2022 Oscar coverage from Entertainment Weekly at https://ew.com/awards/.
GUESTS:
Cary Darling
- Houston Chronical Arts Editor
Dr. Tyrone Dixon
- Film Producer and Director
- Assistant Professor at Texas Southern University - School of Communication
Film Critic Jennifer Merin
- President of the Alliance of Women Film Journalists
- Editor-in-Chief of awfj.org
Joey Nolfi
- Awards expert and writer at Entertainment Weekly
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Freedom of speech is not always pretty, and it is rarely the speech that you agree with that needs protecting.
Today, we explore the issues facing free speech – especially in our politically divided world – and what we can learn from the past.
We spend the hour with Ira Glasser, one of the country’s longtime champions of civil rights and liberties.
He served as executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union from 1978 - 2001.
He's been at the forefront of defending the rights of all Americans, from civil rights leaders to neo-Nazis.
His life was the subject of the 2020 documentary Mighty Ira.
Ira Glasser also fields listener calls about free speech and discusses everything from the First Amendment to our fear of hate speech.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
According to the CDC, Black communities have made great progress in reducing HIV.
Yet racism, discrimination, and mistrust in the health care system may affect whether these communities seek or receive care and services.
Today is National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day.
National experts are here to discuss the latest in testing, prevention, and treatments, as well as and how far we’ve come since the early days of the disease.
We also pivot to talk about the future – the future of the COVID-19 pandemic, that is.
What will be the impact of variants, new vaccines, vaccine hesitancy, natural immunity, and the relaxing of restrictions?
We discuss the changing face of the pandemic with a local epidemiologist, and we field listeners' COVID questions.
Guests:
Dr. Laura W. Cheever
- Physician and Associate Administrator for the HIV/AIDS Bureau at the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)
Chrissy Abrahms Woodland
- Director of the Division of Metropolitan HIV/AIDS Programs in the HIV/AIDS Bureau at the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)
Dr. Catherine Troisi
- Infectious disease epidemiologist with UTHealth School of Public Health in Houston
HIV/AIDS Hotline (HRSA)
In Texas: (737) 255-4300
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The Solar System. Dinosaurs. Donkey Kong.
What do they have in common?
Meteorites!
Meteorites have helped build our planet and impacted the evolution of life and human culture.
But how?
Today, we find out from Greg Brennecka, scientist and author of Impact: How Rocks from Space Led to Life, Culture, and Donkey Kong.
We have some fun exploring the connections between space rocks and pop culture and asking burning questions like – has anyone ever been struck by a meteor? Or could a meteorite ever wipe out Earth?
Guest:
Greg Brennecka
- Staff scientist and cosmochemist at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
- Author of IMPACT: How Rocks from Space Led to Life, Culture, and Donkey Kong
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
As athletes prepared for the opening of the 2022 Winter Olympic Games in Beijing, China, Belgian Olympian Kim Maeylemans was forced into isolation after she tested positive for COVID-19 upon arrival in the Chinese capital and it was unclear if she would actually get to compete. It’s the fear of every athlete who’s set their sights on winning a medal at these Olympics.
But China remains confident it can ‘weather the storm’ with its COVID policy and feels it has gone to great lengths to keep the virus out, or at least manage the situation successfully when anyone working, attending, or competing at the games tests positive.
However, this level of confidence can be seemingly a little hard to hold on to with all the new vaccines and variants constantly changing.
On another medical front, there’s been a launch of the Moderna trial for the HIV/AIDS vaccine. What does that mean for the fight against that disease?
Today, we hear from a specialized COVID-19 medical expert who breaks down how China can continue to keep their COVID numbers down, and we learn about the medical advancements used in developing COVID vaccines.
Plus, in the second half of the show, we discuss Houston's anticipation of an icy, artic blast -- bringing back memories of the devastating freeze of 2021.
We get guidance from our local emergency weather departments and Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on how to successfully prepare and make it through this year's winter storm.
Are you prepared to take care of your three P’s – plants, pets, and pipes?
For medical weather-related emergencies only, dial 211.
GUESTS:
Dr. William Haseltine
- Chair and President of the global think tank ACCESS Health International
- Founder of more than a dozen bio-technology companies
- Internationally recognized expert on the COVID-19 pandemic
Eric Berger
- Meteorologist and editor for Space City Weather
Brian Murray
- Public Information Officer, Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management
- www.readyharris.org
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
With an increase in the need for mental health services since the pandemic began, we’ve discovered that many people are waiting throughout our community, in hospitals, and even in jails for mental health services.
The new John S. Dunn Behavioral Sciences Center will open its doors in March, adding hundreds of new beds for mental health patients and creating the UTHealth Houston Behavioral Sciences Campus. The campus, which includes the adjacent UTHealth Harris County Psychiatric Center, becomes the largest academic psychiatric hospital in the country.
But why is it that when it comes to individuals from the Black and Latino communities, these groups seem to look to their church pastors for their mental health needs?
Have you struggled with mental health and well-being during the pandemic?
Do you turn to a medical professional, or do you look toward your faith leader for support instead?
Today, we talk with a psychiatric expert and a sociologist, listen to callers share their stories, and find out what you can do to make yourself feel better as you push through the pandemic or at any other time in life.
We also talk about how medical and religious organizations can come together to serve mental health patients better.
If you find yourself in need of resources for yourself or someone else, contact the Harris County COVID-19 Mental Health Support Line at 833-251-7544 (available 24 hours) or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 (available 24 hours).
GUESTS:
Dr. Lokesh Shahani
- Associate Professor, Chief Medical Officer and Director of the UTHealth Geriatric Psychiatry Program at UTHealth Harris County Psychiatric Center
Dan Bolger
- Graduate Student Fellow at the Religion and Public Life Program and Ph.D. Student in the Department of Sociology, Rice University
- Co-author of the new study, "Where Would You Go? Race, Religion, and the Limits of Pastor Mental Health Care in Black and Latino Congregations" (co-authored with Pamela Prickett of the University of Amsterdam, published in the journal Religions)
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
COVID-19 has prompted many people to search for somewhat unconventional sources of income.
New businesses have been created at a record-breaking pace. And hobbies have turned into money-making opportunities.
During the past two years, have you taken additional side jobs, or turned a passion into a small business?
Did you do it because you needed the money?
Or was it because the pandemic made you reevaluate your life and realize that you needed to chase your dreams?
Today, local business experts discuss pandemic side-hustles and their impact on the economy, the workforce, and personal fulfillment.
Plus, listeners call in to share their personal stories of launching new businesses and following their passions during the pandemic.
Guests:
Carol Guess
- Interim President, Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce
- info@ghbcc.com
Timothy Jeffcoat
- District Director, Houston Small Business Administration
- houston@sba.gov
Houston Public Media does not condone or endorse any of the businesses mentioned on this episode of Town Square.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Although the one-year anniversary of the Capitol Riots has come and gone, some wonder if enough time has passed to accept forgiveness, repair, or even to understand the events that happened that day on Jan. 6, 2021.
Maybe it’s possible to look at 9/11 to see if there are parallels that can be drawn between these two events.
And when it comes to the role of National Security, “It’s really stunning to me that we haven’t looked more closely at what the role of the federal agencies were, what the intelligence was and what the intelligence agencies knew,” says Newsweek National Security writer William M. Arkin.
In this episode, we’ll go in-depth with Mr. Arkin on his research about the Capitol Riots – how its impact will continue to be felt, as well as the current tensions between Russia and Ukraine, and what it all could mean. Plus, we hear from one of our local reporters on what happened at last weekend’s Trump rally in Conroe.
GUESTS:
Lucio Vasquez
- Houston Public Media reporter
William M. Arkin
- Award Winning National Security Writer for Newsweek
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Theater Under the Stars will produce the 1949 Broadway classic South Pacific, Feb. 8 – 20 at the Hobby Center.
This Rodgers and Hammerstein landmark musical is considered radical in its exposure of racial issues on the American stage, where it uses Broadway theatre to make a courageous statement against racial bigotry. But there are also problematic stereotypes for the Asian community.
Some feel that these American classics should be presented as originally intended and not edited. Others may feel they need to be reinterpreted, or simply be put to rest.
Today, we discuss the changing attitudes about casting and presentation from local and national theater experts.
GUESTS:
Melody Butiu
- Broadway actor
- Starring as "Bloody Mary" in Theatre Under the Stars’ production of South Pacific (Feb. 8 – 20, Hobby Center)
Eileen Morris
- Artistic director, The Ensemble Theatre in Houston
Warren Hoffman
- Author of The Great White Way: Race and the Broadway Musical
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
According to research, remdesivir improves clinical outcomes in patients hospitalized with moderate-to-severe COVID-19 symptoms. It's uncertain if the use of remdesivir prevents hospitalization in symptomatic, non-hospitalized patients, who are at high risk for disease progression.
Many believe it’s time to start clearing up the confusion and misinformation campaigns.
How do you know if you just have the flu, or if you have COVID?
Which COVID developments you should be paying attention to?
Today, our medical experts help separate fact from fiction when it comes to the latest COVID headlines – whether it’s with remdesivir, or any other issue you’ve heard in the news.
GUESTS:
Dr. Matthew Dacso
- Director of the Center for Global Health Education
- Associate Professor,
Department of Internal Medicine
at the University of Texas Medical Branch (Galveston)
Dr. Jill Weatherhead
- Assistant professor of tropical medicine and infectious diseases
at Baylor College of Medicine
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
There are many reasons marriages come to an end. Some reasons can be because there’s a reoccurring conflict, an affair, financial issues, or even addiction. However, some divorces can end amicably, where there is less emotion involved.
What can be understood is that sometimes a couple simply decides they don’t love each other, but they want to spend the rest of their life happy, so the only best way to do that is to divorce.
How does divorce affect children?
What is the first, healthy, productive step toward decoupling?
Today’s experts and panelists from The Good Guide to Divorce Seminar give advice on pre-marriage counseling, how to work on maintaining a good relationship throughout the divorce process, and how to find your way through the complicated legal process of divorce.
GUESTS:
Trey Yates, Houston-based Family Law Attorney
Coleen Owens, Marriage and Family Therapist
Full disclosure: The Guide to Good Divorce seminars is an underwriting sponsor of Houston Public Media.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Many of us have been there. We’ve thought about going back to school to get a college degree or thought about simply learning a new skill. But then doubt comes into your mind, and you find yourself asking:
What if I’m too old?
What if I fail?
Do I have the dedication and commitment to balance this new learning experience with everything else that’s going on in my adult life?
It can also seem that most people have hit a certain point in their lives where they feel as though their brain has already done enough learning, and now they just want to focus on living.
New York Times best-selling author Tom Vanderbilt says, “The reason most brains don’t work as we get older is because we stop learning.”
In this episode, we talk in-depth with Vanderbilt about the process and mindset of transitioning from a new learner to an older learner, and we get information from Houston Community College about their continuing education classes. We also hear from a caller who, at 74 years old, has attained five college degrees.
GUESTS:
Tom Vanderbilt
- Best-selling author of Beginners: The Joy and Transformative Power of Lifelong Learning
Melanie Costechareyre
- Program Director, Community Programs at Houston Community College
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the *podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.*
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
If you get your COVID booster shot, are you better protected from Omicron over the next few months?
Is there a second booster that will become available soon?
Many people are confused with questions like these and want to understand testing and what it means to test positive.
With the government now issuing COVID home test kits, we know there are antigen tests and rapid tests that people are using. Some are even utilizing inexpensive paper tests because they feel they’re easier to use for activities such as going to the movies or a concert. And, although paper tests aren’t completely accurate, others may be comfortable with them being accurate enough.
Should we be investing in things like inexpensive paper tests, or should we continue to take the route we’re taking?
In today’s episode, medical experts address these questions and more on the state of COVID today, as well as the percentages of people getting ill versus the number of people becoming infected, and how to understand when to come out from isolation after testing positive.
To learn how to obtain free government Covid test kits, go to www.covidtests.gov or call 800-232-0233.
GUESTS:
Luis Ostrosky
- Chief of Infectious Disease with McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston
- and Memorial Hermann
James McDeavitt
- Executive Vice President and Dean of Clinical Affairs at Baylor College of Medicine
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Ernie Manouse was out sick with COVID for several days last week, but recently made his return to the show.
He’s the media resource who has been working tirelessly with medical experts to keep the Houston community informed about COVID and vaccine updates on a weekly basis for almost two years. Shouldn’t he have been able to escape the virus? Well, unfortunately, no.
What did he learn? He learned that COVID will find you, and you should be in the best condition to fight it when it does.
In this episode, Manouse gives firsthand knowledge of his battle with COVID and his breakthrough infection. A medical expert from the Mayo Clinic addresses callers' questions on everything from boosters to variants to illness to masking. Also, we get an update on the global response to the pandemic.
GUEST:
Dr. Gregory Poland
- Physician and Vaccin-ologist
- Director of the Vaccine Research Group at the Mayo Clinic
- Editor-in-Chief of the medical journal VACCINE
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
According to event planners, the Chevron Houston Marathon is expected to go on as planned – and even as Harris County raised its COVID-19 threat level to "red" or "severe" earlier this week, there are more than 30,000 runners expected to run through downtown.
Runners bunch up during a race, and crowds traditionally gather to cheer them on. So how are race officials ensuring the safety of runners and spectators?
And while there will be a winner crowned at this weekend’s marathon, there’s still the concern of how the nation and the world will win the race against COVID itself.
We know that, in addition to getting vaccinated, wearing the right mask for better protection is also important. Here's what you need to know about high-filtration masks and where to get them.
In this episode, a national medical expert discusses her thoughts on the strategies and policies that should be in place to end the pandemic. The Houston Marathon Committee’s medical director explains the COVID safety protocols at this weekend's race, and a local infectious diseases expert addresses questions about N95 masks, drug interactions with anti-viral oral medication, and COVID testing for children.
Guest host Joshua Zinn fills in for Ernie Manouse in this episode.
GUESTS:
Dr. Julie Morita
- Executive Vice President of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
- Member of the Advisory Committee to the Director of the Centers for Disease Control
Dr. Lars Thestrup
- Medical Director of the Houston Marathon Committee
Dr. Michael Chang
- Pediatric infectious diseases specialist at UTHealth and Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
In this late-stage of the pandemic, some people may feel safe going to the movies, while others may not.
Houstonian and film producer, Greg Carter says, “The pandemic has accelerated what has to happen eventually. It has forced theaters to think of attending movies as more of an entertaining event and to do more than just provide popcorn.”
The pandemic has also changed the way movies are being made. With movie set shutdowns, a strict budget now reflects COVID protocols and procedures, where the decision is to scale back on equipment but not on safety.
In this episode, film industry experts from Variety magazine and the University of Houston School of Communication give their takes on whether or not the movie-going experience needs to evolve.
With Harris County’s COVID thread level currently at "red," we also get a medical update on the latest safety guidelines and the best N95 masks to wear, as reviewed by the CDC.
Guest host Brenda Valdivia fills in for Ernie Manouse in this episode.
GUESTS:
Dr. Catherine Troisi
- Infectious disease epidemiologist and faculty member at UTHealth School of Public Health
Greg Carter
- Film producer, director, and writer
- University of Houston visiting professor
Brent Lang
- Executive Editor of Film & Media for Variety Magazine
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Social media, COVID, identity, social life, self-esteem.
These are just some of the challenges that teens face.
During these complicated times, it's natural for teens to feel confused and alone. Plus, the pandemic adds layers of uncertainty and adjustment to teen life.
How can parents help?
What can we do to connect? And how can we communicate better to help teens find their footing, overcome challenges, and create healthy situations at home and school?
Today, mental health experts are here to offer tips and insights. Parents and grandparents call in with questions -- from how to help their teens with attitudes to monitoring device usage to dealing with the loss of a parent, and more.
GUESTS:
Valerie Johnson-Reed
- Licensed bachelor’s level social worker
- Co-author, along with Casilya Smith, of Pass the Hot Sauce: Real Talk For Teens
Dr. Richelle Whittaker
- Educational psychologist
- Parenting coach
- Founder of Providential Counseling and Consulting and Next Steps Educational Counseling
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
When the pandemic hit, Prairie View A&M University alumnae Vernita Harris and Beatrice Moore noticed the heightened food shortages and how more families were coming back to the dinner table again.
“Most children get their meals from school. The pandemic changed that,” said Harris.
So, they decided to team up for a great cause and some easy-to-make recipes with their cookbook Pinch-Dash-Done: A Gateway to Flavorful Recipes.
While the cookbook offers recipes and creative ways to spice up meals with Tex-Mex, Southern, Italian, and Caribbean influences, the book also has a philanthropic aspect. Proceeds from sales go towards creating scholarships at the Prairie View A&M University College of Agriculture and Business, and they’ve also teamed up with the Houston Food Bank to help with food insecurity within the local community.
In this episode, the co-authors not only share their favorite recipes, but callers weigh in on some of their own favorite and easy recipes as well.
GUESTS:
Vernita Harris and Beatrice Moore
- Co-authors of Pinch-Dash-Done: A Gateway to Flavorful Recipes
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The one-year anniversary of the January 6 insurrection was a day of looking back and remembering not only what took place on Capitol Hill – but also a day of wondering what has transpired since then and what lies ahead for those in Congress.
President Joe Biden’s speech focused on the push for holding Trump and others accountable as the priority. Although several arrests have been made, there’s still lots of pending legal action on the horizon.
How do we find balance in being angry about what happened on Capitol Hill that day, while trying to think positively about the future government? Our local government leaders who experienced the insurrection first-hand seem to have the answers on where we should focus.
In this episode, local leaders from Congress and in higher education give their recounts and opinions of the insurrection. We also continue updates on COVID, omicron, boosters, and the new Army vaccine.
GUESTS:
Dr. Peter Hotez
- Professor of Pediatrics and Molecular Virology & Microbiology at Baylor College of Medicine
- Co-director of the Texas Children’s Center for Vaccine Development
Zoe Tillman
- Senior reporter at Buzzfeed News, covering courts, justice, and the intersection of law and politics
Mark P. Jones
- Fellow in political science at Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy
U.S. Congressman Al Green
- Representing the 9th Congressional District of Houston, Texas
U.S. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee
- Representing the 18th Congressional District of Houston, Texas
USA Today op-ed by U.S. Congressman Adam Kinzinger
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Some wonder if certain language scientists use can create more disconnect in public discourse about the COVID-19 virus and Omicron variant. Katherine Wu, science writer from The Atlantic, agrees.
In her article, Omicron Is Our Past Pandemic Mistakes on Fast-Forward, Wu states that “We’ve been making the same errors for nearly two years now. In my previous coverage of the pandemic, I began to develop a strong desire to put the messages together,” she said. “We can’t keep over-relying on medical rhetoric – using terms like ‘mild symptoms. This makes it difficult to understand. We can’t downplay it.”
With the new CDC guidelines on testing and isolation facing criticism, it seems that this may be a way to give recommendations that are gentler so people will want to do a little bit more to prevent the spread of the virus.
How do we stop history from repeating itself and stop prolonging this pandemic?
In this episode, we ask a local doctor for her take on the new CDC guidelines, and we continue to strive for a greater understanding of Omicron, vaccines, and boosters. We also discuss how healthcare workers are feeling the brunt of the pandemic, and we learn which virus symptoms are milder than the other.
GUESTS:
Katherine Wu
- Science staff writer at The Atlantic
Dr. Susan McClellan
- Medical Director of the Biocontainment Treatment Unit and the Director of Biosafety for Research-related Infectious Pathogens at UTMB Health in Galveston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Medical experts predict that the wave of COVID-19 and omicron variant cases will continue to peak at least until the end of this month.
Though the data from research is still in the early phases, studies show that booster protection against omicron can last 10 weeks, which may mean a fourth dose requirement could be established.
But what will it take to bring communities together and for individuals to team up as ambassadors for boosters and vaccines?
“The way to become an ambassador is to listen to people we know, those around us,” said Dr. Jill Weatherhead, assistant professor of pediatrics-tropical medicine and infectious disease at Baylor College of Medicine. “I have a real relationship with my patients, so they trust me. The key with our messaging is that it must be consistent, calm, and compassionate. That’s how trust is built.”
In this episode, we look at the example of the city of San Francisco and how they have been able to achieve a high vaccination rate through building trust within their community. We also focus on access to Harris County testing sites, omicron and young children, and vaccination for the elderly in nursing homes.
For a list of testing sites throughout Harris County, go to readyharris.org or call 832-927-7575.
Guests:
Jennifer Kiger
- Director of the COVID-19 Division for Harris County Public Health
Dr. Robert Wachter
- Professor and Chair of the Department of Medicine at the University of California, San Francisco
- Author of the book “The Digital Doctor”
Dr. Jill Weatherhead
- Assistant professor of pediatrics-tropical medicine and infectious disease at Baylor College of Medicine
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The holiday break delivered a huge surge in COVID cases due to the omicron variant. From illness to societal impact, many are worried about what the next month or two has in store for us. Meanwhile, we continue to see studies that support the strength of our vaccines, including a study that indicates that the J&J Covid-19 vaccine booster protects people against severe illness from the omicron variant.
Parents and schools also continue to face challenges as well. The FDA approved booster shots at the 5 month mark for young individuals age 12 to 15 and a third shot for immunocompromised children age 5 to 12.
Additionally, concerns continue with testing, quarantine regulations, and understanding which masks are most effective.
In this episode, we cover the latest COVID headlines – from teen boosters to new quarantine guidelines.
Guests:
Dr. David Persse
- Chief Medical Officer, City of Houston - Houston Health Department
Dr. William Haseltine
- Chair and President of the global think tank ACCESS Health International
- Founder of more than a dozen bio-technology companies
- Internationally recognized expert on the COVID-19 pandemic
Dr. Richina Bicette-McCain
- Medical Director, Baylor College of Medicine
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Tuesday, President Biden announced the government will provide free at-home COVID-19 tests in order to combat the contagious Omicron variant.
After a surge of calls on our previous episode regarding concerns over vaccines, boosters, and the variant; we continue to take a deeper dive into the latest news regarding the virus.
Our COVID experts stress the importance of meeting in outdoor gatherings for the holidays, staying masked, and getting booster shots to combat the spread.
We also heard from listener Amber, a single mother of a two-year-old, who has tested positive twice for COVID using an at-home test kit.
Dr. Susan McLellan walks her through the steps about the best ways to protect her child from the virus.
Dr. Pei-Yong Shi
- Professor and John Sealy Distinguished Chair in Innovations in Molecular Biology at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB)
Dr. Susan McLellan
- Medical Director of the Biocontainment Treatment Unit
- Director of Biosafety for Research-related Infectious Pathogens at UTMB Health
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
With reports that the CDC is narrowing use of the J&J vaccine due to rare odds of a fatal blood-clotting problem called Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) occurring (approx.. one case in every 100,000 doses given to women age 30 to 49), many people want to know what the vaccine protocols should be moving forward to those who took J&J.
As we take a deeper dive into the CDC announcing new recommendations regarding the Johnson and Johnson vaccine, we also learn that Pfizer has extended their study on vaccinating young children - reporting that the lower-dose version of its vaccine for 2- to 5-year-olds generated a weaker immune response than expected.
In this episode, medical experts address questions regarding Omicron, Delta, and the future of COVID-19 vaccinations and vaccines.
We also talk with one passionate caller who is very concerned about the physical side effects of the vaccines.
Dr. Gregory Poland*:
- Professor of Medicine & Infectious Diseases, and Distinguished Investigator at the Mayo Clinic
- Director of the Mayo Clinic’s Vaccine Research Group
Dr. Michael Chang
- Pediatric infectious diseases specialist at UTHealth and Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital
*Dr. Poland is a paid scientific advisor for Johnson & Johnson/Janssen Global Services LLC. Dr. Poland is the chair of a Safety Evaluation Committee for novel investigational vaccine trials being conducted by Merck Research Laboratories. Dr. Poland offers consultative advice on vaccine development to Merck & Co., Medicago, GlaxoSmithKline, Sanofi Pasteur, Emergent Biosolutions, Dynavax, Genentech, Eli Lilly and Company, Kentucky Bioprocessing, Bavarian Nordic, AstraZeneca, Exelixis, Regeneron, Janssen, Vyriad, Moderna, and Genevant Sciences, Inc. Dr. Poland holds patents related to vaccinia, influenza, and measles peptide vaccines. Dr. Poland has received grant funding from ICW Ventures for preclinical studies on a peptide-based COVID-19 vaccine. These activities have been reviewed by the Mayo Clinic Conflict of Interest Review Board and are conducted in compliance with Mayo Clinic Conflict of Interest policies. This research has been reviewed by the Mayo Clinic Conflict of Interest Review Board and was conducted in compliance with Mayo Clinic Conflict of Interest policies.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Are the holidays triggering for you? Do you feel overwhelmed by the preparations? Maybe seeing family at this time of year leads to anxiety and conflict for you?
According to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America, anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older, or 18.1% of the population every year.
Today, our experts talk about ways to deal with depression during the holidays, signs and symptoms of depression, as well as what you can do to manage your mental wellness during this time of year.
We also have a special guest who shares her own personal story of developing seasonal depression, how she learned to manage it, and ways to help others.
If you’d like to talk to someone to get help, our guests recommend reaching out to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline or calling 800-273-8255 for more information.
Additionally, the CDC announced new recommendations regarding the Johnson and Johnson vaccine, so we'll explore what you should know if you received the J&J shot.
Guests:
Dr. Hana El Sahly
- Professor of molecular virology and microbiology and of medicine/infectious diseases at Baylor College of Medicine
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Psychologist at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston
- Director of the Center for Violence Prevention
Tashell Williams
- Certified Wellness Coach
- Author of the upcoming book One Lung to Live
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Actor and playwright Jaston Williams took the traditions and characters of small-town Southern life to create a show that touched audiences for decades – even performing at the White House for former President George Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush.
Williams is known for creating and performing the Greater Tuna shows set in the fictional town of Tuna, Texas.
Plus, what is it about traditions and memories that bring us closer together, especially at this time of year?
A sociologist from Rice University joins Town Square to talk about nostalgia during the holidays.
Listeners shared their holiday memories, including Mary, who decided to create a new tradition this year.
Guests
Jaston Williams
- Actor and playwright
- Known for creating and performing the Greater Tuna shows with fellow actor Joe Sears
- His latest show is Blood and Holly - Christmas West of the Pecos
Dr. Elaine Howard Ecklund
- Herbert S. Autrey Chair in Social Sciences
- Professor of Sociology
- Director of the Religion and Public Life Program at Rice University.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Today is another milestone in the COVID-19 pandemic, where the U.S. has passed 800,000 deaths due to the virus. However, it seems as though many have become numb to such numbers.
Amidst reports of the fast-spreading omicron variant, Houston hospitals have been developing a new, easy-to-make vaccine that will cover the gaps in other counties that are working to inoculate against the virus.
In this episode of Town Square, we talk with Dr. Maria Elena Bottazzi, Co-Director of the Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, about the vaccine she’s working on with her Co-Director, Dr. Peter Jay Hotez.
Along with the latest COVID headlines, we answer your questions about the effectiveness of vaccines against omicron and provide an update on the virus, vaccines, and variants.
Guests:
Dr. Maria Elena Bottazzi
- Associate Dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine
- Co-Director of the Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development
Dr. Katelyn Jetelina
- Epidemiologist with UTHealth School of Public Health
- Author of the blog Your Local Epidemiologist
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
According to the CDC, more than one in three adults in the U.S. has prediabetes, and 84 percent of these adults don’t even know it.
Left untreated, this can develop into type 2 diabetes.
According to the Houston Health Department, Houston has a higher rate of diabetes than the rest of the country – it affects almost 14 percent of our local population, compared to 10 percent nationally.
It’s also a factor when it comes to COVID-19. Houston Public Media reports that more than 50 percent of Houstonians who died from COVID had diabetes.
Today, experts are here to take a deep dive into the disease.
What should you know about prevention and treatment?
And what community resources are available to help?
Guests:
Dr. Stephen Ponder
- Vice Chair of the Texas Diabetes Council and Clinical Professor of Pediatric Endocrinology
Dr. Faith Foreman-Hayes
- Assistant Director at Houston Health Department
Dr. Sean Hartig
- Assistant professor of medicine-endocrinology, diabetes & metabolism at Baylor College of Medicine
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Libraries – they’re not just for books!
Some have podcasting gear, recording studios, book clubs, classes and services – all for free.
Today, a look at today’s libraries.
We talk about challenges, including librarian shortages and controversial books.
And we discuss the ways libraries impact and serve communities, from bridging the digital divide to the importance of literacy.
Has a librarian or library changed your life?
Did you discover a love of reading through the library?
What are some of your favorite books and even current recommendations?
Guests:
Mary Woodard
- President-Elect of the Texas Library Association
- Director of library services for a district in the north Texas area
Roberto Zapata
- Assistant Director of Customer Experience at Houston Public Library
Resources
How to get a library card from Houston Public Library and Harris County Public Library
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
They sparkle, twinkle and glow - bring joy - and sometime even awe.
They are holiday lights, which help make the season feel magical and special.
Where you can you see the best holiday light displays in the city?
We’ll talk about the places where you can see the biggest, brightest, most dazzling and creative winter lights in Houston – from Galveston to the Houston Zoo to NASA.
Plus, Ernie has a co-host direct from the North Pole. Yes, that’s right, SANTA will join us today.
Below are holiday lighting events shared with us as local favorites, including call-in guests. Due to the high call volume, not all links below were mentioned on the show.
- Houston Botanic Garden: Lightscape - Justin Lacey, Director of Communications & Community Engagement
- River Oaks Christmas Lights - Mister McKinney, Owner and operator of the Houston History Bus
- Santa's Wonderland
- Houston Zoo Lights - Jessica Reyes, Public Relations Manager
- Moody Gardens: Holiday In The Garden - Jerri Hamachek, Marketing & PR Manager
- Sugar Land Holiday Lights - Ryan Posner Manager, Media Relations for Sugar Land Skeeters
- Space Center Houston: Galaxy Lights - Mary Baerg, Space Center Houston Chief Operating Officer
Guest:
Santa Claus
- Gift giver extraordinaire and North Pole resident
- Also known as Father Christmas, Saint Nicholas, Saint Nick, Kris Kringle, or simply Santa
- Found by our good friend Boaz Arch
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Where do you like to shop during the holidays?
Do you enjoy the hustle and bustle of the mall with its name-brand stores?
Or do you prefer small, independent retailers?
The winter holidays are the biggest shopping time of the year with big box stores offering huge selections and slashed prices.
But many people like to focus their spending on locally owned businesses as a way to find unique gifts and to give back to the community.
Today, we talk about the impact of shopping locally and what this holiday season might mean for small businesses trying to recover from the pandemic.
We invite local businesses to call in and share their story and gift ideas.
Below are businesses listeners shared with us as local favorites. Due to the high call volume, not all links below were mentioned online.
- AfroSpeak!
- Bedrock City Comics
- Blind Girl Productions
- Blue Willow Book Shop
- Brooklyn Pizza
- Cactus Music
- Homestead House Furniture
- iBurn
- Joshua's Native Plants & Garden
- My Flaming Heart
- We Olive & Wine Bar
- The Woodlands Wrap Center
- Space Montrose
- Surroundings
Guest:
Tim Jeffcoat
- Director of the U.S. Small Business Administration - Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
During the holidays, people are in a giving mood, but sometimes gifts are not enough.
Sometimes giving your time and helping others is what is really needed.
Not only can it make a difference for the community, it can have positive impact on your life as well.
Today, we talk about how and where to volunteer this holiday season.
From helping fill ongoing needs to seasonal opportunities to quirky ways to volunteer, a representative from Volunteer Houston will discuss the needs across the city.
Plus, yesterday it was announced that the Justice Department is suing the state of Texas over redistricting.
What’s going on there, and what does it mean for Texans and the next election?
A political expert is here to explain.
Guests:
Jeronimo Cortina
- Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science
- Associate Director at the Center for Mexican American Studies at the University of Houston
- Co-host of Party Politics
Gayla Wilson
- Program Manager, Volunteer Houston
Call-in Guests / Volunteer opportunities:
- Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center, Meals on Wheels: Talya Morris, Volunteer Coordinator
- Stopping Plastics and Litter Along Shorelines: Kelly Martin, Texas Coastal Outreach Coordinator
- Texas Children's Hospital: Crystal Ortiz, Manager of Volunteer Services
- Texas Wildlife Rehabilitation Coalition Wildlife Center: Madelyn Strubelt-Martinez
- Houston Habitat for Humanity: David Soto, Community Engagement Manager
- Galveston Bay Foundation: Emily Ford, Volunteer Engagement Manager
- Houston SPCA: Jennifer Colina, Volunteer Manager
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
What do we know so far about the omicron variant?
How sick does it make you? And how contagious is it?
President Biden’s chief medical adviser, Dr. Anthony Fauci, told CNN yesterday that scientists need more information before drawing conclusions about omicron’s severity.
But early indications suggest it may be less dangerous than delta, which continues to drive hospitalizations.
Reports from South Africa, where omicron is becoming the dominant strain, suggest hospitalization rates have not increased drastically.
Today, we continue to follow omicron and other COVID developments, and we bring you the latest with an expert from UTHealth.
Plus, a representative from TSA talks about the latest travel restrictions and safety measures at airports.
Guests:
Patricia Mancha
- Media Spokesperson, Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
Dr. Anthony R. Flores
- Chief of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at UTHealth Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Today, in honor of World AIDS Day, health experts talk about where we are in the fight against this disease, from inequities to stigma to research.
Treatments, education, and research have evolved over the decades.
What advances are on the horizon?
And what challenges are still facing those who are HIV positive and the people who love them?
At the same time, we acknowledge how far we’ve come from awareness and education to living a full life while HIV positive.
Plus, a legal expert is here to explain what happened during today’s challenge to Roe v Wade at the Supreme Court.
Experts
Charles "Rocky" Rhodes
- Professor of Law at South Texas College of Law Houston
John Huckaby
- CEO of AIDS Foundation Houston
Dr. Natalie Vanek
- Infectious disease specialist at Legacy Community Health
- Chair of the Texas HIV Medication Program Advisory Committee
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
AUDIO COMING BY 5PM CST
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
"This variant is a cause for concern — not a cause for panic."
That’s how President Biden put it, in his speech yesterday after a meeting of the COVID-19 response team at the White House.
So what exactly are we learning about the new omicron variant?
The World Health Organization warns that it poses a "very high" global risk because of the possibility that it spreads more easily and might resist vaccines and immunity.
But we still don’t know for sure how dangerous omicron is.
Today, national and local health experts help us understand this latest pandemic situation, and they answer listeners' questions from omicron to boosters and other ways to protect yourself.
Guests:
Dr. William Haseltine
- Chair and President of the global think tank ACCESS Health International
- Founder of more than a dozen bio-technology companies
Dr. Jill Weatherhead
- Assistant Professor in Tropical Medicine and in Infectious Disease at Baylor College of Medicine
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Do you use Facebook?
Have you encountered misinformation or harassment?
The company’s rise to prominence has been linked to problems addressing misinformation, the spreading of hate speech and violent acts.
Today, we explore the impact – and future – of Facebook.
Experts will discuss, and they’ll also talk about rising digital technologies that can seem, well, science fiction.
Is wearable technology the way of the future?
How about plugging technology directly into the brain?
And how will all of that impact society, policy, and activism?
Plus, a medical expert will also join us to explain what we know so far about omicron, the new variant of concern.
Guests:
Dr. Catherine Troisi
- An infectious disease epidemiologist and faculty member at UTHealth School of Public Health
Karen Hao
- Senior AI editor at MIT Technology Review
- Former writer of the Webby Awards-nominated newsletter “The Algorithm”
Dr. Shiv Ganesh
- A professor at The University of Texas and a global scholar focusing on activism and communication in the context of digital technologies
Dr. Chris Bronk
- Associate Professor of Computer and Information Systems at the University of Houston
- Director of the Cybersecurity Graduate Program
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Got your Thanksgiving menu ready?
Is the turkey almost thawed?
What sides are you having?
Thanksgiving is almost here! So many wonderful things to eat, but how do we get that meal just right?
Today, it’s all about Thanksgiving recipes and, for a bit of fun, we’ll also share Thanksgiving disasters!
A representative from Butterball will join us, along with cookbook author Stacie Billis, to take your calls.
And, with the breaking news of the verdict in the McMichaels and Bryan trial in the killing of Ahmaud Aubery, we take a closer look at what the jury decided.
Guests:
Sean Roberts:
- Civil Trial Lawyer with Roberts Markland LLP
Barbara Robinson:
- Butterball Turkey Hotline expert
Stacie Billis:
- Co-host of the popular food podcast for parents, Didn’t I Just Feed You
- Author of Make It Easy and Winner! Winner! Chicken Dinner
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
The only thing that says Thanksgiving more than turkey is … Black Friday.
That “Friday-after” is the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season and, traditionally, the biggest shopping day of the year.
There are so many sales and doorbusters. What’s the best way to navigate Black Friday?
Consumer experts guide us through the maze of deals, products, and promotions.
And we’ll also take a look at how global supply chain issues figure into all of this.
Will you be able to get what’s on your wish list in time for the holidays?
Dietrich von Biedenfeld
- Assistant Professor in the Marilyn Davies College of Business, at the University of Houston – Downtown
Charis Brown
- Managing Editor of ClarkDeals.com
Kristin McGrath
- Content Marketing Manager and Shopping Expert for BlackFriday.com
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
November is National Family Caregivers Month.
It’s reported that nearly half of all caregivers are over age 50.
They may be experiencing changes in their own health while also trying to manage the health of older family members.
Research shows that caregiving can also take a major emotional and financial toll on the caregiver themselves.
So, how do we care for the caregiver?
And, as we reunite with older family members this holiday season, how should we deal with – and help address – any signs of declining health, including dementia?
Guests:
Katie Scott
- President of CarePartners
Dr. Ali Asghar-Ali
- Associate Professor Psychiatry Research Baylor College of Medicine
- Associate Director of Education South Central Mental Illness Research, Education, Clinical Center
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
After months of speculation, it's official. Beto O’Rourke is running for Texas governor.
The former El Paso congressman announced his candidacy on Monday, November 15th, becoming the first Democrat to join the race.
So why has he decided to run for Governor? And how does this shift the dynamics of the race?
Today, we hear from Beto O’Rourke, his plans, issues of concern, and why he’s running.
Guest:
Beto O'Rourke:
- Texas Democrat and former Congressman, who is now running for Governor of the great state of Texas
Then, the jury in the Kyle Rittenhouse case, came down with the verdict – not guilty on all counts.
Our legal experts are here to unpack the verdict and listeners react to the announcement on it all.
Guests:
Jennifer Laurin
- Professor of criminal law and criminal procedure, University of Texas School of Law, Austin
Geoffrey S. Corn
- Gary A. Kuiper Distinguished Professor of National Security at South Texas College of Law Houston
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Documentaries, features, shorts.
Photography, music and dance.
It's time again for the Houston Cinema Arts Festival, which is currently taking place – in person and virtually.
Today, we explore our local film culture by diving into the 13th annual festival – whose theme is “The Third Coast,” a tribute to the Gulf Coast region and especially Houston, where the term was coined.
How do the films and filmmakers on this year’s festival reflect our city, and the times in which we live?
Whether you’re into documentaries, short films or Houston stories, share your questions about the festival, the local film industry and the indie movies being made today.
Guests:
Jessica Green
- Artistic Director, Houston Cinema Arts Festival
Jim Townsend
- Executive Director, Houston Cinema Arts Festival
Michael Robinson
- Associate Creative Director, Houston Cinema Arts Society
- Curator of shorts for Borders No Borders Narratives and Documentaries
Jenny Waldo
- Writer, Director and Producer of Acid Test
- Encore screening of Acid Tes" on December 7 at Eureka Heights. Tickets will be on sale later this month.
Aaron Sainz
- Producer of Bushwick Bill: Geto Boy
Susan and Alan Raymond
- Filmmakers of The Third Coast (40th Anniversary)
Dr. Shelah Leader
- Organizer/attendee of the 1977 National Women's Conference
- 1977 National Women's Conference: A Question of Choices
- Author of "American Women in the Move: The Inside Story of the National Women’s Conference, 1977 by Shelah Gilbert Leader and Patricia Rusch Hyatt" (Lexington, 2016)
Dr. Leandra Zarnow
- 1977 Digital Humanities Project with Center for Public History at the University of Houston
- 1977 National Women's Conference: A Question of Choices
Ronald L. Jones
- Filmmaker of Again, Together
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Significant court cases abound nation-wide, from the trial over the killing of Ahmaud Arbery to the Kyle Rittenhouse homicide trial.
What do these cases, and the events that led up to them, say about our current society?
Steve Bannon has been indicted on contempt of Congress. Texas is suing the federal government and the federal government is suing Texas…
Today, legal experts help us understand what’s happening in these cases, their possible outcomes, and what kinds of precedents they could set.
Plus, congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee is here to talk infrastructure and bipartisanship.
Guests:
U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee
- Representing TX-18th District
Alexis J. Hoag
- Professor at the Brooklyn Law School
- former civil rights and federal defense attorney
Sean Roberts:
- Civil Trial Lawyer with Roberts Markland LLP
Seth Chandler
- Law Foundation Professor of Law at the UH Law Center
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
A new study shows that Black and Hispanic Americans are the most likely to contract COVID-19.
And Asian Americans are at highest risk for ICU admission.
This was based on a US meta-analysis and systematic review of data on 4.3 million patients.
The study was designed to uncover the link between socioeconomic determinants of health and racial disparities in COVID-19 outcomes.
So today, we dig into COVID and race.
What are learning about health disparities and how to address them?
A co-author of the study is here to discuss, and local medical experts will also unpack the latest COVID headlines.
Guests:
Harrison Li
- Co-first author of “Disparities in COVID-19 Outcomes by Race, Ethnicity, and Socioeconomic Status,” a study at University of California- San Diego
- Churchill Scholar at the University of Cambridge
Dr. Richina Bicette
- Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine
Dr. Catherine Troisi
- An infectious disease epidemiologist and faculty member at UTHealth School of Public Health
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Is time travel possible?
How does space exist?
Where did the universe come from?
These are questions that we’ve all asked ourselves in the search for meaning and something greater. Maybe you’ve also asked, what are the odds of meeting your “older self” inside a wormhole?
From the profound to the outrageous, it’s totally normal to wonder and to search for answers to the meaning of life and the universe.
Two scientists, podcasters, and co-creators of the Emmy-Nominated animated series Elinor Wonders Why, have written a book called Frequently Asked Questions about the Universe. They join us to share what they know and answer listener questions about the final frontier.
Experts:
Jorge Cham
- Co-author of Frequently Asked Questions about the Universe
- Creator of Ph.D. Comics
- Co-host of Daniel and Jorge Explain the Universe
- Co-creator of Elinor Wonders Why
Daniel Whiteson
- Co-author of Frequently Asked Questions about the Universe
- Professor of Physics and Astronomy at the University of California, Irvine
- Co-host of Daniel and Jorge Explain the Universe
- Co-creator of Elinor Wonders Why
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Video Embed width="585" height="329"
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
It still seems unreal.
A week ago, people were so excited about Travis Scott’s Astroworld Festival, counting down the days.
But then tragedy struck on Friday night with crowd surges leading to the deaths of 8 concertgoers.
Yesterday on “Town Square,” we wanted to get a general understanding of what happened and hear firsthand accounts.
Today, we continue our coverage by finding out what else we’re learning – from the timeline of events to remembering the victims.
We also examine the mental health impact that’s unfolding. How do we help concertgoers cope with the trauma of that night?
And we look at crowd control – what are the risks of large events, and how do we prevent something like this from happening again?
Guests:
Lucio Vasquez
- Houston Public Media reporter
Paul Wertheimer
- Founder of Crowd Management Strategies
Dr. Jon Stevens
- Chief of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Chief of Outpatient Services at The Menninger Clinic
Mental health resources:
- Harris County Center for Mental Health 713-970-7000 - option 1
- Better Help is providing one month of free one-on-one sessions through their partnership with Travis Scott. You can access it here.
- The Harris Center for Mental Health
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
It’s here. SWEATER WEATHER.
Beef stew, chicken and dumplings, menudo, and tonkatsu ramen.
Who doesn't love comfort food?
Today, we speak the universal language of comfort food whether it’s American classics, multicultural favorites, or even “mash-ups” of different types.
A popular food blogger and cookbook author joins us to talk about his take on comfort food and what makes it, well, so comforting.
Listeners also share their takes on cozy recipes, including Maria who provided changua, a Colombian soup recipe her mother taught her, and Mary tackling our expert's lasagna tampino recipe, 10 years after she found it.
Guest:
Dan Whalen
- Creator of the popular recipe blog The Food in my Beard
- Author of several cookbooks, including Stuffed: The Ultimate Comfort Food Cookbook
- And his new book is Nachos For Dinner: Surprising Sheet Pan Meals the Whole Family Will Love, coming out in January.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Vaccines for children ages 5 – 11 have been authorized
and recommended by the FDA and CDC.
Now what?
While some parents are excited to get their children vaccinated others may feel hesitant for any reason.
Today, one of our regular, trusted pediatric experts is here to answer your questions.
Also, we discuss other CDC developments, including this morning’s announcement from the White House clarifying new COVID policies.
Under these federal rules, workers at larger businesses will have to get vaccinated by January 4th or face regular testing and mask requirements.
Dr. Michael Chang
- Pediatric infectious diseases specialist at UTHealth and Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
It’s the day after the Election.
How did it all unfold?
Here in Texas, voters approved 8 constitutional amendments – from raffles at rodeos to the government’s ability to limit religious services.
Elsewhere in the country, Eric Adams was elected mayor of New York – the city’s second Black mayor.
Republicans did well in New Jersey and Virginia elections, with the governor’s race in New Jersey surprisingly close for a heavily democratic state.
Today, we look at how Americans voted.
We’ll breakdown the races, issues and policies that were triumphant – and see what it all means for 2022.
Plus, a medical expert discusses the latest on deploying children's COVID vaccines, given the recent recommendation of that vaccine by the CDC and authorization by the FDA.
Guests:
Jennifer Kiger
- Director, COVID-19 Division at Harris County Public Health
Brandon Rottinghaus
- Professor of Political Science at the University of Houston
- Co-host, along with Jeronimo Cortino, of Party Politics
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
How do you decide if you should trust someone you just met?
Should you accept a date, a ride home or even open your front door to a stranger?
A lot of people go with their instincts to make these decisions, but your gut isn’t always reliable.
Today, a former FBI profiler teaches us what we should actually do to assess dangerous situations.
We discuss how to understand human behavior so you can use that information to make better decisions, size up people more accurately and minimize threats in everyday life.
Plus, have you voted? We have the latest on voting in Harris County on this Election Day as you head out to the polls.
Guests:
Nadia A. Hakim
- Deputy Director of Communications and Voter Outreach for Harris County Elections
Mary Ellen O’Toole
- Former FBI Special Agent in the Behavioral Analysis Unit
- Director of the Forensic Sciences Program at George Mason University
- Author of “Dangerous Instincts: How Gut Feelings Betray Us”
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Do you have a bunch of stuff that you once thought you just had to have, but now you rarely use?
Maybe an exercise bike or a kitchen appliance that’s just taking up space?
Or maybe you have photos or memorabilia that you never quite get around to organizing?
How do we declutter our home to find a better balance in our lives?
Today, a minimalism enthusiast and YouTuber shows us how.
From tips on reducing clutter and stress to money hacks to even simplifying meals and travel, we find out if less is really more.
Need help letting go of items? Has the pandemic made you reassess your spending and your possessions? Share your questions and comments.
Guest:
Gabe Bult
- Minimalism enthusiast and YouTube personality
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day's most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today’s show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.
Town Square with Ernie Manouse airs at 3 p.m. CT. Tune in on 88.7FM, listen online or subscribe to the podcast. Join the discussion at 888-486-9677, questions@townsquaretalk.org or @townsquaretalk.
Every year, millions flock to scary movies and haunted houses.
But … why?
Why do we love being scared?
Is it the adrenalin rush?
Pure escapism?
Or simply a way to dance close to danger while ultimately knowing you are safe?
Today, with Halloween just around the corner, we explore the psychology of fear with Dr. Jeff Temple and learn more about our appetite for scary movies with Shudder TV.
Plus, we learn listeners favorite horror movies, games, and characters
and why we love them.
Guests:
Dr. Jeff Temple
- Psychologist at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston
- Director of the Center for Violence Prevention
Sam Zimmerman
- Vice President of Programming for Shudder
Town Square with Ernie Manouse is a gathering space for the community to come together and discuss the day’s most important and pressing issues.
Audio from today's show will be available after 5 p.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, and other apps.