A mint green skyline against a dark blue background with the words Houston Matters with Craig Cohen in white

Houston Matters begins at 9 a.m. CT on 88.7FM. You can also listen online or watch live on YouTube. Join the discussion. Call or text 713-440-8870. Email talk@houstonmatters.org or tag us @HoustonMatters.

On Wednesday’s show: Is the federal shutdown really about to end? If so, what is the fate of expiring health care subsidies? And were Senate Democrats who agreed to a deal right or wrong to do so? We consider those questions and discuss the latest developments in politics in our weekly roundup.

Also this hour: We check out an immersive art installation at the recent AfroTech Conference.

And we take a closer look at Houston’s comedy scene, beyond standup, as we talk with improv and sketch performers around town.

Audio from today’s show will be available after 11 a.m. CT. We also offer a free podcast here, on iTunes, Stitcher and other apps.