Hello Houston (May 4, 2026)

On today’s Hello Houston, we talk with Sarah Kirkle, the Policy and Legislative Affairs Director for the Texas Water Association, who helps us understand what needs to be done for the state of Texas to avoid a major water crisis in the future.Then, we hear from Performing Arts Houston President and CEO Meg Booth and Director of Artistic Programs, Lee Strickland, who tell us all about the arts organization’s upcoming 60th anniversary season, which they are calling “The Diamond Season.”In the second hour, David Froomkin, assistant professor of law at the University of Houston Law Center, joins us to discuss the continuing legal battles surrounding redistricting and voting rights following the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decisions involving Texas and Louisiana’s congressional maps.Plus, Nicholas Sawicki, Executive Director of the Houston Public Library Foundation, rejoins us on the show to explain how the library helps foster a love for reading among children and families in recognition of Children’s Book Week this week.And, as always, Ernie Manouse and guest host Houston Public Media Reporter Michael Adkison talk about today’s top stories at the top of each hour, including Houston's World Cup host committee taking over parts of the region in preparation of the massive international soccer event, Mayor John Whitmire proposing an administrative fee for trash pickup, Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick exploring ways to close “gambling loopholes” for online prediction markets, and more.