KUHT 8's InnerVIEWS with Ernie Manouse back and nationwide

I did not know that KUHT 8's InnerVIEWS with Ernie Manouse was on 100 PBS station across the US. Here I thought it was just a good local Houston show. Well Manouse is back with a big roster of guests for the show's 10th season starting this month:

At 10:30 p.m., Thursday, January 12, the 10th season of the HoustonPBS nationally syndicated award-winning series, InnerVIEWS with Ernie Manouse, launches with an all-new lineup. Currently airing on more than 100 PBS stations throughout the country, Emmy award-winning host Ernie Manouse continues his conversations with guests from across the pop landscape. Joining Manouse this season are actors Kate Walsh and Marsha Mason, Rocker Gene Simmons and PBS luminaries Jim Lehrer and Bill Moyers to name a few.

“It’s amazing how time flies,” said Manouse. “It seems like just yesterday we sat down with Anne Rice, Patti LuPone and Frankie Avalon to launch our first season, and in little over a month, we will air our 150th episode. As with our other seasons, we continue talking to some of Houston and the nation’s most intriguing cultural icons - from arts to entertainment, from literature to politics – in a season of InnerVIEWS there is always something for everyone!”

Other guests this season include: best-selling author Charlaine Harris (True Blood); Soap Star Kim Zimmer; and legendary photographer Greg Gorman.

“Each episode offers an intimate conversation, where our guests feel comfortable enough to share their unique, personal, and surprising life stories in a warm, comfortable and open way unique to television interviews,” continues Manouse.

InnerVIEWS with Ernie Manouse airs at 10:30pm every Thursday night on HoustonPBS, with re-broadcasts at 2:30pm on Sundays. For national airdates and times, check with your local PBS stations.

Complete List of Season #10 InnerVIEWS with Ernie Manouse Guests
1/12/12 - KISS’ Gene Simmons
1/19/12 – PBS NewsHours’ Jim Lehrer
1/26/12 – Actress Kate Walsh (Private Practice & Grey’s Anatomy)
2/2/12 - Photographer Greg Gorman
2/9/12 – Trumpeter Chris Botti (Repeat from past season)
2/16/12 – Actress Loretta Divine (Dreamgirls, What Women Want & Eli Stone)
2/23/12 - PBS’ Bill Moyers (InnerVIEWS... 150th Episode)
3/1/12 – Activist, Actress and Film Maker Alana Stewart (Farrah’s Story)
3/22/12 - Soap Star Kim Zimmer (Guiding Light)
3/29/12 - Gospel Singer Yolanda Adams
4/5/12 – Actor/director Martin Sheen (West Wing) and Emilio Estevez (Breakfast Club, Young Guns & The Outsiders)
4/12/12 - Actress Marsha Mason (The Goodbye Girl, The Middle)
4/19/12 – Broadway composer Jerry Herman (Hello Dolly!, Mame, & La Cage aux Folles) (from past season)
4/26/12 - Publisher Larry Flint
5/3/12 - Author Charlaine Harris (The Southern Vampire Mysteries- inspiration for HBO’s True Blood)

Ernie Manouse celebrates 25 years with Houston Public Media

Houston Public Media's Ernie Manouse lets us know that May 21, 2021 marked his 25th year with TV 8 KUHT (and more recently News 88.7 KUHF).

He has the awards to prove his longevity in Houston too!

Take a seat, because you'll need a rest after you read the list of shows he has hosted/produced for Houston PBS:

WeekNight Edition

The After Party

Houston 8

InnerVIEWS with Ernie Manouse (nationally broadcast on PBS)

Arts InSight

Manor of Speaking (Downton Abbey wrap-up show)

A Mother’s Account: The Stella Byrd Interview

The Last 24

A Murder in Montrose

Houston in Black and White

and the annual Houston Public Media Spelling Bee.

These are just the shows listed in his bio.  Trust me, I know I have written about other shows he's worked on, not mentioned here like A Conversation on Houston Classic TV.

Manouse is also very involved in the Houston community. 

Now you can hear Manouse weekdays  on "Town Square with Ernie Manouse" at 3pm on News 88.7 KUHF.

(Thanks Susan Farb Morris!)

KUHT 8's “InnerVIEWS with Ernie Manouse” reaches 150th episode milestone

KUHT 8 Houston PBS let's us know that InnerVIEWS with Ernie Manouse hits 150 episodes:

Over the past 10 seasons, the nationally syndicated award-winning series, InnerVIEWS with Ernie Manouse has entertained and informed audiences with interesting, intimate, and revealing conversations with some of today's most captivating notables. Now, InnerVIEWS, and Emmy winner Ernie Manouse, get ready to celebrate their 150th episode with multi-award winning journalist Bill Moyers.

The 150th episode featuring Bill Moyers will air in the Greater Houston Area on Thursday, February 23 at 10:30pm on Channel 8, HoustonPBS.

Other upcoming InnerVIEWS guests this season include: Publisher and First Amendment crusader Larry Flynt, Oscar winner Marsha Mason, author Charlaine Harris, actress & documentarian Alana Stewart, soap star Kim Zimmer and gospel great Yolanda Adams.

Since its debut in January 2004, the program has spawned a legion of fans across the county, airing on over 100 PBS stations. InnerVIEWS... guests have ranged in age from the youngest at 16 (Singer Angel Faith) to the oldest at 95 (TV Presenter Art Linkletter). Through the years the program has won four Dallas Press Club Regional KATIE Awards; three Videographer Awards; two Bronze Telly Awards; and the Communicator Awards Award of Distinction. InnerVIEWS was also nominated for the Emmy for Best Interview/Discussion Program/Series.

InnerVIEWS with Ernie Manouse airs on HoustonPBS every Thursday night at 10:30pm, with re-broadcasts Fridays at 11:00pm and Sundays at 3:30pm. For national airdates and times, check with your local PBS stations.

Tessa Barrera joins Hello Houston

 

Tessa Barrera will join Ernie Manouse as co-host of Hello Houston beginning Monday, August 17, 2026, Houston Public Media announced today.

I'm told Barrera will not continue working afternoons for Sunny 99.1 KODA since she will be moving down the dial to News 88.7 KUHF, where Hello Houston airs on the radio.

“Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to tell the stories of the people who make Houston so special,” said Barrera. “Joining Hello Houston is an incredible opportunity to celebrate our community and connect with audiences in a new way. I’m honored to join Houston Public Media and work with the entire Hello Houston team to help shine a light on the stories and voices that make Houston such a remarkable place.”

Manouse said he's excited to welcome Barrera to the program.

“Tessa brings tremendous energy, curiosity and a genuine love for this city," Manouse added.  "I’m looking forward to sharing the desk with her, and I can’t wait for our audience to get to know her.”

Together, Barrera and Manouse will continue to host conversations with newsmakers, community leaders, artists and everyday Houstonians, offering audiences an engaging look at the people, events and issues shaping Greater Houston, the station promises.

“Tessa’s warmth, curiosity and ability to connect with people make her an outstanding addition to Hello Houston,” said Josh Adams, associate vice president and general manager of Houston Public Media. “Alongside Ernie, she’ll continue the thoughtful, community-focused conversations that reach audiences across radio, television, digital, HPM+ streaming and social platforms.” 

She brings 13 years of television and radio experience to the new position.

Barrera succeeds Frank Billingsley, who departed Hello Houston just a few months ago. In an interesting twist, Houston Public Media once again tapped a former KPRC 2 personality for the role. Barrera left KPRC 2's lifestyle program Houston Life in March 2026 after three years as co-host.

The Corpus Christi native officially joined Houston Life in July 2023 alongside Derrick Shore after several months as a guest co-host following Courtney Zavala's departure.

Barrera first arrived in Houston in 2019 after being selected through a nationwide search to join iHeartMedia's 94.5 The Buzz KTBZ as a co-host on The Rod Ryan Show. For more than a year, she balanced both her television and radio careers before leaving the morning radio program in December 2024 to focus full-time on Houston Life.

Before returning to Texas, Barrera worked in Los Angeles as a news anchor and executive producer at KFI AM 640.

She launched her broadcasting career in her hometown of Corpus Christi at KRIS 6 and KZTV Action 10 News, where she made history as the region's first Latina sports anchor. During her time there, she covered the Corpus Christi Hooks, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Islanders, Texas A&M-Kingsville Javelinas, and numerous high school sports teams and events.

'Hello Houston' debuted on Monday, March 31, 2025, on News 88.7 KUHF and online weekdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the slogan, "Your connection to the heart of the Bayou City."

The new radio show and podcast was originally hosted by former KPRC 2 chief meteorologist Frank Billingsley, Ernie Manouse, and Celeste Schurman. Former 97.9 The Box KBXX Madd Hatta Morning Show producer James Kovacik, also known as Jim Beazy, serves as executive producer.  William Menjivar and Garrett Bohlmann are the show's producers.

Houston TV talents offer a peek at The Rose

The Rose "A Time to Care" Luncheon 2014 - April 22, 2014


Sonia Azad, Ruchi Mukerjee (Photo: Barfield Photography)

Deborah Duncan, Ernie Manouse (Photo: Barfield Photography)

Michelle Baden, Miya Shay, Lara Bell (Photo: Barfield Photography)
Guests enjoyed many generous moments at the Second Annual "A Time to Care" Luncheon benefitting The Rose at the Junior League of Houston on Tuesday afternoon. Co-chairs Jessica Rossman and Michelle Meissner were tickled pink when this year's Master of Ceremonies Ernie Manouse of PBS, along with more than 260 guests, helped raise more than $87,000 for advanced breast cancer screening, diagnostic services and access to treatment to more than 35,000 insured and uninsured women annually.

Deborah Duncan of KHOU's Great Day Houston set the mood as she welcomed guests to the Second Annual "A Time to Care" Luncheon. Guests enjoyed a three course meal and refreshments while Ernie Manouse and luncheon speaker Dan Moore, CEO of Cyberonics, sat down for an open and engaging conversation about the importance of taking the time to care for the ones who matter the most, whether they be friends, family or employees.

Texas State Representative Gene Wu presented The Rose with a resolution that recognizes the nonprofit breast cancer organization and its second annual fundraising luncheon. The resolution states that those associated with the event should be extended best wishes for continued success.

For a sweet take-home treat, Mister French's Gourmet Bakery provided each guest with its sugar vanilla cookies. The cookies were meticulously hand decorated to the smallest detail and designed specifically for the event by Scott French himself. For every table, centerpieces included of assorted pink flowers in a glass vase were underwritten by Kroger. To thank all the heart-warming guests, bright fuchsia pink and green pashminas covered the Junior League of Houston Tea Room's chairs and were generously underwritten by Randall's.

Time flies with United Airlines as the raffle drawing for round trip business class tickets (anywhere in the U.S. Canada, Caribbean, Mexico, Central America or Europe) raised $20,000. The raffle winner of the United Airline tickets was Amy Carr. Guests also opened up their big hearts and purchased raffle tickets for five fabulous packages that included spa treatments, dining, entertainment, getaways and more.

Those taking time to care included: The Rose Co-Founder and CEO Dorothy Gibbons, board members Myrleen Knott, Chair, Donna Mittendorf, Vice Chair, Tom Watson, Eileen Campbell along with guests Lara Bell, Bruce Padilla, Diane Caplan, KTRK's Sonia Azad and Miya Shay, Laurette Veres, Kim Padgett, Shelley Ludwick, Josh Espinedo, Kari Gonzales, Edward Sanchez, Peter Remington, Gracie Cavnar, Leisa Holland Nelson, Dana Kervin Clark, Beth Wilson, Texas State Representative Gene Wu, Ruchi Mukerjee, Kay King, Tina Governale, and Helen Perry.

(This post was taken from a release sent to me by The Padgett Group)

'Downton Abbey' after show 'Manor of Speaking' season finale photos

"Downton Abbey" after show "Manor of Speaking" wraps up season

“Manor of Speaking” host and producer, Ernie Manouse, pictured with season finale special guest, Joanne King Herring. (Photo: Jonathan Sandys)

On the set of Houston Public Media’s “Manor of Speaking” during the season finale. (L to R) Special guest Evan Turner, Helen Mann, the butler “Mr. Rodgers,” Ernie Manouse, special guest Joanne King Herring, and St.John Flynn. (Photo: Jonathan Sandys)

John Dascouilias and CultureMap Houston’s editor-in-chief, Clifford Pugh, pose for a photo with the “Downton Abbey” upstairs characters at the “Manor of Speaking” season finale. (Photo: Jonathan Sandys)

Here are photos from the “Manor of Speaking” season finale taping that aired Sunday night on Houston Public Media TV8 KUHT.

Host Ernie Manouse and his trusty manservant “Mr. Rodgers,” lead a studio audience, a rotating cast of super fans and cultural experts through the world of “Downton Abbey" immediately following the hit PBS show's airing.

The Houston-based show has been picked up on other PBS stations across the country.

http://manorofspeaking.org/

Houston media members dress up as toys

KHOU-TV's Chita Johnson, KTRK-TV's Andy Cerota, KHOU-TV's Courtney Zubowski, Event Co-Chair Joan Schnitzer Levy, KUHT-TV's Ernie Manouse, KTRK-TV's Miya Shay, KTRK-TV's Tom Koch (emcee and head auctioneer) and kneeling is KTRK-TV's Casey Curry at the 31st Annual ESCAPE Celebrity Serve Benefit at Tony's. 

Who let the toys out? Houston media personalities were out “toying around” as Barbie Doll, Sesame Street and Toy Story characters at Tony’s for the 31st Annual “Toy Box” ESCAPE Celebrity Serve Benefit Sunday night. But the monies raised meant serious business for the ESCAPE Family Resource Center, whose mission is to prevent child abuse and neglect before a child is hurt. No “play money” here: corporate and individual sponsorships, topped by a high-bidding “live” auction and limited edition raffle, generated a whopping $323,000 for ESCAPE coffers.

With Co-Chairs Joan Schnitzer Levy and Gerald Franklin at the helm and Janice and Bob McNair, founder, chairman and CEO of the HOUSTON TEXANS, as the “Hometown Superstar” headliners, the colorful, fun-filled dinner was destined for “To Infinity and Beyond” success. Tony’s was transformed into a virtual toy box, with curly-Q and toy-animal balloons and play toys as centerpieces and local media celebrities and personalities decked out in creative Toy Box togs and ESCAPE aprons. The celebs’ mission: to sell “Buzz Lightyear” specialty drinks, limited edition raffle tickets and various trinkets and candies to support ESCAPE’s bottom line.

Longtime, deeply committed ESCAPE supporters Kristi (who previously worked in radio and had a mini reunion with News 92 FM Radio’s Lanny Griffith, a celebrity server) and John D. Schiller Jr., (Executive Committee member of ESCAPE), whose Energy XXI company was the top (“Starship”) sponsor of the benefit, were the high bidders on more than one “live” auction items, including an NFL Football autographed on-the-spot by Bob McNair, and a spur-of-the-moment package offered up by actor Lee Majors and his wife, Faith. -- dinner for six with the Majors! The Majors, who are new Houstonians, were table guests of Joan Schnitzer Levy and husband Irvin. Majors is famous for his role as TV’s “$6 Million Man.”

Restaurateur Tony Vallone welcomed an overflow crowd of 300 ESCAPE supporters who filled the entire restaurant. Guests raved about the exquisite menu complemented by wines generously donated by Becker Vineyards. In addition to the 25 or so media celebrities lined up by Celebrity Chair Kim Padgett and make-believe action figures like G.I. Joe (Stylist Todd Ramos) and adorably made-up Toy Soldier Edward Sanchez, there were some very real-life action heroes in the house, namely NASA astronauts Gene Cernan (and wife, Jan), and Walt Cunningham (and wife, Dot). KHOU-TV anchor Chita Johnson, KHOU-TV Reporter Courtney Zubowski, KTRK-TV Meteorologist Casey Curry and KUHT-TV Host Ernie Manouse (who assisted KTRK-TV Anchor and Emcee Tom Koch with auctioneer duties) were centers of attention in their Barbie Doll, Woody (sans “Buzz Lightyear”), Candyland and Ernie (sans “Bert”) personas. Other Celebrity Servers on tap: Buzz Lady Roseann Rogers, KTRK-TV reporter Andy Cerota, KIKK/FOX 26’s Cleverley Stone, Absolutely! Memorial’s Lara Bell, Shara Fryer, The 9-5-0 Radio’s Michael Garfield, Houston Chronicle Society Writer Lindsey Love and KTRK-TV Reporter Miya Shay. Susan Farb Morris, a.k.a. the PR Fairy, came dressed as a PR Fairy Princess, complete with a tiara.

According to Lidya K. Osadchey, CEO of the ESCAPE Family Resource Center, the Celebrity Serve Benefit is a major annual source of funding for the 501(c)(3) nonprofit and is held in April as part of National Child Abuse Prevention Month. For more info about ESCAPE, call (713) 942-9500, ext. 14, or go to http://www.learntoparent.org.

This post was written by guest blogger Susan Farb Morris.

'Hello Houston' debuts on 88.7 KUHF

'Hello Houston' debuts on Monday, March 31, 2025, on Houston Public Media's News 88.7 KUHF weekdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the slogan, "Your connection to the heart of the Bayou City."

The new radio show and podcast is hosted by former KPRC 2 chief meteorologist Frank Billingsley, Ernie Manouse, and Celeste Schurman, with former 97.9 The Box KBXX Madd Hatta Morning Show producer James Kovacik, also known as Jim Beazy, serving as executive producer. The hosts will also take on executive producing.  William Menjivar and Garrett Bohlmann will also serve as producers.

'Hello Houston' promises to take a dive deep into the stories that matter to Houstonians, from breaking local news to cultural happenings, community voices, and the everyday joys and challenges of H-Town life, which includes everything from local politics and city events to Houston’s ever-changing food scene to feel-good stories from your neighborhood. 

"Of course, I'll still get to talk about the weather, but Celeste, Ernie and I will have fun and fascinating discussions about politics, arts, concerts, restaurants, clubs, people: everything that makes this city so great," Billingsley said when the show was announced in November 2024.  "We have a great team behind us, and I'm really looking forward to the challenge!"

'Hello Houston' takes over the mid-day slots held by "1A" and "Here and Now," which will be shifted to after the new local show (1:00 pm: Here and Now and 2:00 pm: 1A).

With the new show starting to air, "Town Square with Ernie Manouse" appears to have been replaced by NPR's "All Things Considered" in the 3 p.m. hour.

PICS: KTRK 13's Miya Shay & Gene Wu's engagement party

I told in April how KTRK 13's Miya Shay got engaged to Gene Wu. Wu is a prosecutor in the Harris County District Attorney’s Office and Democrat for Texas State Representative, District 137.

Friday night, the private wine cellar of Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House was buzzing with a good bit of the Houston media crowd to celebrate the couple's engagement.

KHOU 11’s Courtney Zubowski (a bridesmaid) was there with her boyfriend Dr. Eric Haas. Channel 13’s Tom Koch and wife Brenda, Channel 2’s Mary Benton, Channel 8’s Ernie Manouse, Jackson Hearn, the reality family of Dr. Franklin and Erica Rose, Galveston Daily News’ T.J. Aulds and Culturemap’s Clifford Pugh rounded out the media heavy crowd.

About 80 people showed up in total. The whole affair was orchestrated by bridesmaid Kim Padgett and co-hosted by several of Miya and Gene’s friends.

Seems like the media wedding season is in full swing!




Jessica Michan, KTRK 13's Miya Shay and KPRC 2's Mary Benton (Photo: Roswitha Vogler)


KTRK 13's Brenda and Tom Koch (Photo: Roswitha Vogler)


Chau and Rob Todd (Photo: Roswitha Vogler)


KHOU 11’s Courtney Zubowski (a bridesmaid) with boyfriend Dr. Eric Haas (Photo: Roswitha Vogler)


Kim Padgett, Tom Flynn, KUHT 8’s Ernie Manouse, Jackson Hearn (Photo: Roswitha Vogler)


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- Houston media members dress up as toys

Houston TV personalities hit the runway for Star of Hope

18th annual Haute for Hope Houston TV fashion show for the homeless children of Star of Hope

Event Chairs Shana Wood and Elizabeth Wood Edgeworth invited Houston’s best known radio, television and print personalities to strut their stuff on the runway to help raise money for the homeless children of Star of Hope.

During the 18th Annual Haute for Hope Celebrity Fashion Show & Luncheon media fashionistas walked the runway outfitted in summer creations from Kendra Scott, BB1 Classic, LUCHO, and NIMA Boutique & Bridal.

Star of Hope’s Children’s Critical Care Fund provides daily programs and services for infants to 18 years of age. Proceeds from the event helps ensure that children at the Mission will flourish emotionally and intellectually during their stay.

Star of Hope was able to serve over 1,800 children last year.

KPRC 2's Dominque Sachse (Photo: Daniel Ortiz)

KHOU 11's Deborah Duncan (Photo: Daniel Ortiz)

KHOU 11's Chita Johnson (Photo: Daniel Ortiz)

KPRC 2's Andy Cerota & KHOU 11's Courtney Perna (Photo: Daniel Ortiz)

FOX 26 KRIV's Melissa Wilson (Photo: Daniel Ortiz)

KHOU 11's Mia Gradney (Photo: Daniel Ortiz)

FOX 26 KRIV's Jose Grinan (Photo: Daniel Ortiz)

KTRK abc13's Natasha Barrett (Photo: Daniel Ortiz)

KHOU 11's Greg Hurst & Sunny 99.1's Dana Tyson (Photo: Daniel Ortiz)

KTRK abc13's Kaitlin McCulley (Photo: Daniel Ortiz)

KUHT TV 8's Ernie-Manouse & KTRK abc13's Kaitlin McCulley (Photo: Daniel Ortiz)

Houston classic TV host come together on KUHT 8

I was pretty happy to see this email from the folks at KUHT 8 Houston PBS. Producer/host Ernie Manouse will sit down with such beloved Houston personalities as Joanne King Herring (The Joanne King Show), Warner Roberts (The Warner Roberts Show), Jan Glenn (Good Morning Houston), Harold Gunn (Captain Harold's Theater of the Sky), Jim Bernhard (The Greenroom) and Doug Johnson (KPRC News) to share stories and memories from the golden age of Houston television.

The show called A Conversation on Houston Classic TV will air 8pm on November 18 on KUHT 8. The show as produced as a local complement to the national, four-part PBS series, American in Primetime, which looks at today’s popular programs through the lens of classic television shows.

“Since its inception, television has served as a lens on American society. Outside of the big networks, communities across the nation, like Houston, often found their own voice in local television shows,” says Emmy-award winner Ernie Manouse. “Not only was Houston home to the first educational television station (KUHT), some of the local shows garnered national attention (The Joanne King Show), and often beat the national competition in the ratings.”

A Conversation on…is an award-winning series of specials produced by HoustonPBS. In addition to the episode featuring classic television personalities, the station will also present, A Conversation on Art and Film, a discussion on the importance of cinema with local and national producers and filmmakers participating in the Cinema Arts Festival Houston. The show will air at 8pm, Friday, November 11 on HoustonPBS/Channel 8.

For more information, visit www.houstonpbs.org.

Mike McGuff on Houston 8 KUHT this Friday at 8pm

Watch me on Houston 8 with Ernie Manouse which airs Fridays at 8pm on Channel 8 KUHT (Comcast HD 308). I was on as a guest to discuss social media with Michael Garfield "The High Tech Texan" and Dave Fehling, a reporter at KHOU Channel 11.

The show also reairs Sunday at 5pm on Channel 8.

Make sure to tune in to see if our discussion goes too far.  Did I smash a chair over the High Tech Texan's head due to his Twitter remarks or splash a glass of water in Dave Fehling's face over Facebook?  You will have to watch to find out!

http://houston8.ning.com/

(Image courtesy of Flickr user mikemcguff)

Houston Public Media Announces New Digital Series, Arts Podcast, and Music Series

Houston Public Media introduces an all-new digital series, Mockingbird & Armadillo, an arts and culture podcast, Unwrap Your Candies Now, and the relaunch of the popular web series featuring live in-studio performances, Skyline Sessions

HOUSTON – (May 2, 2019) – Houston Public Media introduces an all-new digital series, Mockingbird & Armadillo, an arts and culture podcast, Unwrap Your Candies Now, and the relaunch of the popular web series featuring live in-studio performances, Skyline Sessions.

Mockingbird & Armadillo perfectly captures the unique stories that define Texas pride and illustrate what makes Houston one of the best places in the country to call home. From goat yoga and Arabic karaoke to the first and largest art car parade in the world, these fun and fast-paced episodes immerse viewers in local cultural happenings.

“Mockingbird & Armadillo crosses the spectrum of pop culture and entertaining storytelling, giving us a greater appreciation for the thought, design, and creativity that make a thriving region,” said Ernie Manouse, Houston Public Media arts and culture senior producer.

Unwrap Your Candies Now looks at art from many vantage points and reveals why the Houston art scene is one of the top cultural destinations in the nation. Hosted by Houston Public Media’s Catherine Lu and Ernie Manouse, the cultural podcast transports listeners into the world of the performing and visual arts through intimate conversations with the personalities and characters shaping the region’s vibrant landscape.

The station’s flagship digital music series, Skyline Sessions, returns with a fresh look and feel that feeds the soul of music lovers. The entertaining live performances feature bands and solo artists making waves at the national level or with regional ties. Viewers can discover up-and-coming artists and enjoy new music from their favorite established artists through intimate concerts in-studio or at locations around the city.

Houston Public Media is excited to strengthen its role as a catalyst for the arts, further the area’s exposure to great works of art, and showcase how important artists are to people’s understanding of community through new programming and a returning favorite.

• Mockingbird & Armadillo: Subscribe to the digital series on YouTube, or watch episodes on Houston Public Media’s website.
• Unwrap Your Candies Now: Subscribe to the podcast on Stitcher, Apple Podcasts, or Google Podcasts, or listen to episodes on Houston Public Media’s website.
• Skyline Sessions: Subscribe to the digital series on YouTube, or watch episodes on Houston Public Media’s website.

(This post was taken from a release sent to me by Houston Public Media)

“A Murder in Montrose: The Paul Broussard Legacy” TV 8 KUHT

Houston Public Media documentary and live Town Hall broadcast on June 23 explores how 1991 “gay bashing” murder changed Houston


HOUSTON – (June 15, 2016) – In a project that began before the tragedy in Orlando, Houston Public Media is exploring the aftermath of the 1991 tragic “gay bashing” murder of 27-year-old banker Paul Broussard in Montrose through a documentary and live televised town hall discussion airing during Houston Pride Week on June 23 at 8 p.m. on TV 8 and online. “A Murder in Montrose: The Paul Broussard Legacy” marks the 25th anniversary of this high-profile murder with a look back at how the event sparked major changes in Houston impacting politics, victims’ rights and community activism.

Arts and culture senior producer Ernie Manouse will host the live town hall discussion following the documentary, where audience members and panelists will share their perspectives, explore how Houston has changed in the aftermath and talk about where we are today, particularly in light of the recent violence in Orlando.

“After the Broussard murder, the Houston community, both gay and straight, came together – lives were changed and the city changed,” said Manouse, producer of the documentary. “Now, 25 years later, we wanted to take a historical look at what activism resulted, how victims’ rights changed, who entered politics and who helped to create change in the city.”

Manouse interviewed a wide variety of sources for the documentary including former mayor Annise Parker, longtime community activists Ray Hill and Jack Valinski, victim’s rights activist Andy Kahan and state representative Garnet Coleman, among others.

Houston Public Media’s News 88.7 public affairs show “Houston Matters,” which airs weekdays at noon, will examine the history of activism in Houston on June 22 and will discuss the documentary with Manouse on June 23. Houston Public Media is also inviting community members to share their perspectives and memories of the time on social media using the hashtag #Montrose1991.

More details about the documentary, bonus material, and online content from community members will be available on amurderinmontrose.org, which will launch in conjunction with the broadcast.

(This post was taken from a release sent to me by Houston Public Media)

Lyle Lovett on "Manor of Speaking" tonight

“Manor of Speaking” first episode to feature musical superstar Lyle Lovett; final season airing on PBS stations nationwide starting Jan. 3


Houston Public Media’s popular Emmy award-winning “Downton Abbey” after show is set to air on select PBS stations nationwide starting Jan. 3. Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and avid Downton fan Lyle Lovett is the special guest for this first installment, joining host Ernie Manouse, his butler “Mr. Rodgers,” panelists Helen Mann and St.John Flynn, and guest Helen Valier with the University of Houston in a lively discussion of the long-awaited first Downton episode of its final season. Masterpiece executive producer Rebecca Eaton also joins the show as the special guest for the first “Across the Pond” segment.

“I’m a huge ‘Downton Abbey’ and ‘Manor or Speaking’ fan so I actually called Ernie and asked if I could be on the show,” Lovett said at the taping for the first episode. “I thought it would be a lot of fun and it was.”

“Manor of Speaking,” which aired on more than 138 PBS stations around the country last season, airs immediately following each episode of “Downton Abbey.” The show assembles a rotating cast of celebrated super fans and cultural experts who dissect the mysteries and drama unfolding in the Abbey each week. Each episode features re-caps, history lessons, surprise guests, behind-the-scenes stories and plenty of humor. The show gives “Downton Abbey” fans a chance to revisit their favorite show moments and to participate in a lively conversation designed to make the weekly experience last a little bit longer.

Past special guests include Downton Abbey’s Lady Grantham (Elizabeth McGovern) and Thomas Barrow (Robert James-Collier); Former first lady Barbara Bush; resident of Highclere Castle Lady Carnarvon; Downton Abbey executive producer Gareth Neame; singer Helen Reddy; Emmy winner Holland Taylor from “Two & A Half Men"; socialite/international philanthropist Joanne Herring; and TV Guide Magazine senior critic Matt Roush.

“I’m really looking forward to a great final season,” said Manouse. “The first episode featuring Lyle Lovett and Rebecca Eaton will not disappoint our many fans who tune-in each week after ‘Downton Abbey’ and we have a variety of other special guests and surprises planned for this final season.”

To learn more about the show and how to be a part of the studio audience, visit manorofspeaking.org. For a complete line-up of Houston Public Media's news and information, arts and culture, and education programming, visit houstonpublicmedia.org.

(This post was taken from a release sent to me by Houston Public Media)

KUHT 8 brings Condoleezza Rice to Houston

Dr. Condoleezza Rice will be coming to Houston's Rice University, Tuesday, November 8 at 7pm as a part of KUHT 8's HoustonPBS Elevate Lecture Series:

The HoustonPBS Elevate Lecture Series, in partnership with the James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy at Rice University, welcomes Dr. Condoleezza Rice to Houston on Tuesday, November 8 at 7 p.m. at Rice University.

Dr. Rice served as the sixty-sixth U.S. Secretary of State and was the first black woman to hold that office. Prior to that, she was the first woman to serve as National Security Advisor. She is a professor at Stanford University, and co-founder of the Rice Hadley Group, a consulting firm which advises U.S. businesses on investing in emerging markets. Rice is also the author of the New York Times bestseller, Extraordinary, Ordinary People: A Memoir of Family. Her new book, No Higher Honor: A Memoir of My Years in Washington, will be published by Crown on November 1.

In a moderated discussion, hosted by HoustonPBS Emmy award-winning producer Ernie Manouse, Rice will offer a behind the scenes glimpse of diplomatic negotiations during her years in Washington serving as the country’s leading diplomat.

“We’re honored to be partnering with Rice University to provide Houstonians with an opportunity to hear first hand from someone who has had a front row seat during many of our country’s recent pivotal moments,” says Manouse. “We anticipate a lively discussion between Dr. Rice and the audience.”

Tickets for the HoustonPBS Elevate Lecture Series featuring Condoleezza Rice are $25 for general admission and $75 for a special reception with Dr. Rice and admission to the lecture. Visit www.houstonpbs.org/events or call (713) 743-8459 to purchase tickets.

The HoustonPBS Elevate Lecture Series is presented by the John P. McGovern Foundation.

Dr. Rice has a new book out called No Higher Honor: A Memoir of My Years in Washington.

This lecture will not be taped for broadcast on KUHT 8.

“Houston In Black And White” to air on Houston Public Media TV 8 #HouBW

TV special to explore issues facing black and white communities in Houston


HOUSTON – (Jan. 9, 2017) – Houston Public Media is exploring the issues that face black and white communities in Houston during a 60-minute TV special, “Houston In Black And White,” that airs on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, Jan. 16 at 9 p.m. on TV 8. The show will explore who we are, how we arrived here and what we can do to move forward into a future of healing, equality and growth. Click here for a preview.

Co-hosts Ernie Manouse, arts and culture senior producer for Houston Public Media, and Eddie Robinson, News 88.7 “Morning Edition” news anchor, guide in-depth discussions with four civil rights activists and thinkers from Houston on topics ranging from racism and Affirmative Action to police and the media. The show opens with a message from Mayor Sylvester Turner. The panelists on the show include:

· Natalie Arceneaux, business consultant and conservative talk show host, C+A Global Group

· Andrew Hamilton, Ph.D, associate dean, University of Houston Bonner Leaders Program

· Deric Muhammad, Houston-based author and activist

· Rev. Hannah Terry, associate pastor, Fondren Apartment Ministry

“Several months ago Eddie and I both met individually with people from our own racial groups and asked them the same set of questions to create topic starters for a bigger conversation with our four special guests,” said Manouse, who also served as the show’s producer. “The purpose of this program is to discuss what often divides our communities, in order to get a better understanding of how we see these differences and how much we truly have in common.”

He adds that the hope is that it will spur a much needed conversation out in the community and give us all an opportunity to move forward with a more positive understanding of each other.

“‘Houston In Black And White’ exposes the experiences of individuals from different races and ethnicities and allows them to take part in a much needed dialogue,” said Robinson. “We examine why some people think racism in Houston is getting better, why some think it’s getting worse, why some think it’s widespread, why some think it’s invisible and why many of them think, on some level, it’s actually the norm.”

Houston Public Media will host a live Twitter chat during the special with the hosts and panelists to talk about the show and answer viewer questions. The community is invited to join the conversation using the hashtag #HouBW.

“Houston In Black And White” is part of Houston Public Media’s DiverseCity project (#DiverseCity), a yearlong multi-media initiative looking at what Houston’s diversity means for the city. Stay tuned to houstonpublicmedia.org/diversecity for all Houston Public Media stories and content related to this initiative.

(This post was taken from a press release sent to me by Houston Public Media KUHT/KUHF)

Houston media members don feather boas and are ready to serve

KHOU-TV Sports Anchor Bob Allen with KHOU-TV celebrity servers:  Lily Jang, Katherine Whaley and Courtney Zubowski with Chita Johnson

Houston media was out in force Sunday night at Tony's. It was to raise funds for the ESCAPE Family Resource Center at the 32nd Annual ESCAPE Celebrity Serve “Color My World” Benefit. ESCAPE is a non-profit that's mission is to prevent child abuse and neglect in the Houston area.

These TV and radio personalities joined folks from the worlds of sports, philanthropy, politics, business and space exploration by donning aprons and feather boas to be charitable celebrity servers.

Texas energy tycoon T. Boone Pickens served as CEO (Celebrity Executive Officer) at the event and directed the Houston celebrity servers who mingled with guests.

Some of the 30+ celebrities were:
- Astronauts Walt Cunningham and Gene Cernan
- Newly named KHOU-TV Sports Anchor Bob Allen
- Stylish Lynn Wyatt
- Tae Kwan Do Silver and Bronze Olympic Medalists/siblings Mark and Diana Lopez
- Parents-to-be Miya Shay, KTRK-TV reporter, and her husband, Texas State Rep. Gene Wu

Wu presented a House Resolution commending ESCAPE’s work that was read in the Texas Legislature.

Also on tap was KHOU-TV reporter and newlywed Courtney Zubowski - a scene-stealer with her rainbow-hued locks, eyelashes and furry boots. Other notables on tap included KHOU's Chita Johnson, Lily Jang and Katherine Whaley, KTRK abc13's The Buzz Lady Roseann Rogers, KPRC AM 950's Michael Garfield, singer Scott Gertner, KPRC-TV Anchor Andy Cerota, pro basketball player Jonathan Bender, CBS Radio/FOX 26 TV’s Cleverley Stone, pro football player Devard Darling and stylist Edward Sanchez.

Tony’s stunning interior design was a canvas of balloon-laden tables bursting in primary colors. The room’s centerpiece was an impressive four-foot tall balloon sculpture on the table of Texas energy tycoon T. Boone Pickens, special guest of dear friends Schnitzer Levy and her husband, Irvin.

The party crowd included: ESCAPE Board Chair Dennis Price and wife Vicki, Irvin Levy, Evelyn Franklin, Faith and Lee Majors, Hon. Bonnie Crane Hellums and her husband, former Houston Oiler Carel Stith, Louise and Dr. Denton Cooley, Hon. Meca Walker, Commissioner R. Jack Cagle, Erica and Charles Harris, Regina Rogers, KTRH Radio Anchor Shara Fryer and husband, Barry Silverman, Marjorie Evans, Shantel and David Ferdman, Dene Hofheinz Anton, Celebrity Chair and ESCAPE Board Member Kim Padgett, Susan and David Morris, Clemencia and Jordan Larimore and ESCAPE CEO Lidya K. Osadchey.

Co-Chair Gerald Franklin, who personally greeted all the guests at the door, said close to 300 guests attended and brought in $288,000 $300,000 for ESCAPE. Franklin is a co-founder of ESCAPE, which dates back to 1983.

Miya Shay and husband, State Rep. Gene Wu, with ESCAPE CEO Lidya Osadchey

Actor Lee Majors ($6-Million Man who is now on "Dallas"), his wife, Faith, Texas energy tycoon T. Boone Pickens (he's on the far right -- special guest for the Celebrity Serve Benefit evening) and his date, Toni Brinker.  

 Bob Allen, Tom Koch, Todd Ramos, Houston Chronicle's Lindsey Love, Ernie Manouse and Roseann Rogers

http://www.learntoparent.org

Frank Billingsley joins Houston Public Media

Frank Billingsley will join Houston Public Media as an executive producer after stepping down as KPRC 2's chief meteorologist in June 2024.

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"Frank Billingsley’s reputation as a Houston legend precedes him," said Houston Public Media Station Manager, Josh Adams in a release. "His experience and connection to our community align perfectly with Houston Public Media’s mission to inform and inspire. We are thrilled to welcome him to the team and look forward to the impact his presence will have."

In his new role, Billingsley will play a central part in the launch of a multi-platform talk show, Hello, Houston!, premiering in early 2025. 

The daily program, airing on News 88.7 KUHF radio, podcast, and social media, will feature Billingsley alongside award-winning broadcaster Ernie Manouse and producer Celeste Schurman (no time was provided by HPM as to when the show will air). Former 97.9 The Box KBXX Madd Hatta Morning Show producer James Kovacik, AKA Jim Beazy, will also produce the show.

Together, the station says the new public radio team will spotlight vibrant stories, inspiring profiles, and thought-provoking discussions that celebrate Houston's diversity and culture.

"Of course, I'll still get to talk about the weather, but Celeste, Ernie and I will have fun and fascinating discussions about politics, arts, concerts, restaurants, clubs, people: everything that makes this city so great," Billingsley added.  "We have a great team behind us and I'm really looking forward to the challenge!"

"Frank’s depth of experience and his dedication to storytelling will bring a fresh perspective to our content," said Laurie Ramirez, Executive Director of Content Operations for Houston Public Media. "His work in the field has been exemplary, and we are confident he will elevate our programming to new heights." 

Houston’s longest-serving TV meteorologist, Billingsley,  had a 42-year career, including nearly three decades with Channel 2. KPRC morning meteorologist Anthony Yanez has since stepped into the role of chief meteorologist.

Billingsley has earned multiple honors from the Associated Press, Houston Press Club, Houston Press Newspaper, and Dallas Press Club. He was also named a “Houston Treasure” in 2018 and a “Houston Legend” by Houston City Book in 2021. The Houston Chronicle named Billingsley the “Ultimate Weatherman.”

Beyond television, Billingsley wrote "Swabbed & Found," chronicling his journey to find his biological family.

Shara Fryer and Melanie Lawson remember Dave Ward

Former ABC13 KTRK Houston and 740 KTRH news anchor Shara Fryer appeared on Houston Public Media's "Hello Houston," hosted by Frank Billingsley, Ernie Manouse, and Celeste Schurman, to talk about the legacy of her colleague and co-anchor, Dave Ward. 

- Dave Ward honored on "ABC World News Tonight with David Muir"

Ward, the longtime anchor at KTRK, died at the age of 86 on Saturday. 

Additionally, after more than four decades at ABC13, longtime anchor Melanie Lawson discusses her upcoming retirement, marking the end of an extraordinary career in local journalism. 

Lawson, who I heard was already scheduled for this day, also shared her thoughts on working with Ward.

A future programming note, Wednesday night from 6 to 7pm, ABC13 will air a special in honor of Ward.

Wednesday, December 17 (Lying in Repose)
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Location: Dave Ward building at the Crime Stoppers Houston building
Address: 3001 Main Street

Thursday, December 18 (Public Visitation)
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: George H. Lewis & Sons Funeral Directors
Address: 1010 Bering Drive

Friday, December 19 (Funeral Service)
Event: Funeral service, open to the public
Time: 12pm 
Location: St. Martin's Episcopal Church
Address: 717 Sage Road