817 Podcast - Fort Worth's Monday Morning Show

EJ and Ann start the podcast off with new updates on the mayor's priorities, panther island, and a visit from the governor to address street racing. The main story is a deep dive into Trinity Metro's impact on the city with the new CEO, Rich Andreski. This is your episode if you are a stan for Ann and transportation! Enjoy!

SHORT STORY #1: Mayor Announces Priorities (https://fwtx.com/news/mayor-mattie-parker-announces-her-top-budget-priorities-for-/)

SHORT STORY #2: New Report about Panther Island (https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article277921638.html)

SHORT STORY #3: Governor Signs Street Racing Bill in Fort Worth  (https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/news/2023/8/street-racing?fbclid=IwAR3_jCRHGR2OM2-zHy6QAiderefQMgv3nIQqItQqgd1u83Pka-UJ23SQr2M_aem_AVU8ZdE08vj8U7Y7uaeXHlqpcvSkV3CZnzqMo-NCpPcX4Acjg2TFzFYb8HvjJcQ43Rw&mibextid=Zxz2cZ)

BIG STORY: Interview with Rich Andreski CEO of Trinity Metro

WINS AND LOSSES:

EJ:
Win: Teacher Recruitment for FWISD (https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/education/article277672963.html)
Loss: Bitcoin transparency at the city level (https://fortworthreport.org/2023/08/02/fort-worth-was-the-first-city-to-adopt-bitcoin-mining-to-attract-attention-was-it-worth-it/)

Ann:
Win: New extended TexRail stop at Near Southside (https://fortworth.culturemap.com/news/city-life/texrail-near-southside-station/)
Loss: Driverless Vehicle Delivery (https://fortworthreport.org/2023/08/03/driverless-vehicle-company-clevon-brings-self-driving-package-delivery-to-town-near-alliance/)

Ann and EJ are back in the podcast studio. The theme for today’s pod is -- Who Needs to be Heard in Fort Worth? We discussed the mayor’s emails that led to the removal of the Pride Badge for the annual summer reading challenge. We also look at the blocking of city banners for upcoming event organized by the Metroplex Atheists group and the weird staffing issues at Texas A&M questioning free speech in higher education. Enjoy!

SHORT STORY #1 Emails Reveal New Concerns about the Mayor’s Decision to Remove the Pride Reading Badge 

 https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/tarrant-county/emails-reveal-new-details-of-fort-worth-mayors-decision-to-remove-pride-reading-challenge/287-43313321-9302-4d05-9f07-b2e0def6b051?fbclid=IwAR3XODNLTnpyMPmbnGmXkJG2cYT9eZ008DKwg196n_3JMO77foYPDq7F0WA_aem_Ab4-4l7IQDzYrGD1C1_mFuSN_MGPRhXnZJvxizRXPGla4fb_Oa2WDuGzm6Tukk9zBfI&mibextid=Zxz2cZ#lko2cbal4v77y3fc4ja

SHORT STORY #2 Metroplex Atheists Group Gets Banners Blocked for Downtown Event
(https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article277428558.html)

SHORT STORY #3 The State’s Influence on Texas A&M (https://www.keranews.org/politics/2023-07-27/a-texas-a-m-professor-was-suspended-for-allegedly-criticizing-lieutenant-governor)

SHORT STORY #4 New Death Star Law Prohibits Cities from Creating New Regulations (https://www.star-telegram.com/opinion/editorials/article277505038.html)

WINS AND LOSSES

EJ
W: Junchuang North America (https://fortworthinc.com/news/chinese-company-junchuang-north-america-to-make-ev-parts-in-/)
L: Tarrant County (https://www.keranews.org/government/2023-07-28/tarrant-county-shifts-plans-for-building-regional-law-enforcement-training-center)

Ann
W: Comprehensive Plan and new Transportation RFP
L: The economics of journalism (https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article277672063.html)

Ann and EJ resume their regular program after discussing Mercy Culture with Eddie at the Fort Worth Weekly. They discuss an article about DFW becoming the largest metro in the country by 2100. They review the latest development news and begin planning how to make DFW a prosperous area.

SHORT STORY #1: Legislature Commits $1M for National Juneteenth Museum in Fort Worth

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/07/09/legislature-commits-1m-for-national-juneteenth-museum-in-fort-worth/

SHORT STORY #2: Should Tarrant County join group vying for an EPA solar power grant? Commissioners say no — for now

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/07/18/should-tarrant-county-join-group-vying-for-an-epa-solar-power-grant-commissioners-say-no-for-now/

SHORT STORY #3: TCU medical school could bring an annual economic impact of $4 billion to Fort Worth

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/07/16/tcu-medical-school-could-bring-an-annual-economic-impact-of-4-billion-to-fort-worth/

BIG STORY: Dallas-Fort Worth could be biggest metro in U.S. by year 2100, new report says

https://dallas.culturemap.com/news/city-life/dfw-biggest-population-2100-movebuddha/

Supporting articles:

1) Development booms on outskirts of Dallas-Fort Worth as sprawl swallows small towns

https://www.star-telegram.com/news/business/growth/article276987113.html

2) Downtown Fort Worth could reach new heights with new buildings

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/07/14/downtown-fort-worth-could-reach-new-heights-with-new-buildings/

3) Planning, data combine in new city of Fort Worth department focused on budgeting and finance

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/07/20/planning-data-combine-in-new-city-of-fort-worth-department-focused-on-budgeting-and-finance/

WINS AND LOSSES

EJ's Win: Major League Cricket
EJ' Loss: FW Police

Ann's Win: North Texas Community Foundation
Ann's Loss: Berry Theater

Today we have Eddie Brown, an award-winning journalist who writes for the Fort Worth Weekly. He has been keeping tabs on Mercy Culture and the power it has in our politics. Ann and I will be gone next week. Links for the show are below:

Short Story #1: July 4th Shooting in Como (https://www.star-telegram.com/article277037373.html)

Short Story #2: FWPD kills two men during a call in north Fort Worth (https://www.fox4news.com/news/fort-worth-lee-avenue-shooting)

Short Story #3: Learning from our mistakes in neighborhood development in the north

- East Lancaster receives $20M from federal government (https://www.fox4news.com/news/east-lancaster-avenue-to-get-20-million-upgrade-asking-public-for-input)
- Mayor Parker in the Real Deal Magazine (https://therealdeal.com/texas/2023/07/03/its-just-the-start-fort-worths-mayor-promotes-smart-growth/)
- Fort Worth's fastest growing area (https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article276827956.html)
- Trains holding up traffic (https://fortworthreport.org/2023/07/06/drivers-play-daily-waiting-games-with-trains-across-fort-worth-the-reasons-are-long/)
- Why Texas is becoming America's most powerful state (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBYu7tR7DHg)

Big Story: Interview with Eddie Brown with the Fort Worth Weekly (https://www.fwweekly.com/2023/06/28/culture-vultures/)

Wins and Losses:

Ann W: UTA student concern about Panther Island
Ann L: The FW zip codes have increased the most

EJ W: Opal Lee painting
EJ L: Another FWPA candidate for country commissioner

Checkout the virtual exhibit if you missed it  -> https://matterport.com/discover/space/CzTuKLRKrG 

This episode is for the real ones. Ann and EJ dissect the new demographic data recently released by the city. This is important because this is the first published data on the new districts. You will also see the evolution of legacy districts and how the perception might have changed. Get your laptops out because we get into the weeds of the ever-changing landscape of our city.

Short Story #1: No qualified applicants for Tarrant County elections chief? Applications say otherwise (https://www.star-telegram.com/news/politics-government/article276878913.html)

Short Story #2: Fort Worth to delay requirements for Evans and Rosedale project (https://fortworthreport.org/2023/06/29/fort-worth-to-delay-requirements-for-evans-and-rosedale-project-officials-say-it-wont-affect-construction-start-times/)

Short Story #3: Higher homestead exemption approved for elderly and disabled in Fort Worth (https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/higher-homestead-exemption-approved-for-elderly-and-disabled-in-fort-worth/3286273/)

BIG STORY: New Demographic Data Reports: What do they mean?

District 2 (https://reports.mysidewalk.com/ea38657687)
District 3 (https://reports.mysidewalk.com/2bdb1449e5)
District 4 (https://reports.mysidewalk.com/6ebdeab945)
District 5 (https://reports.mysidewalk.com/1339193fd6)
District 6 (https://reports.mysidewalk.com/7fa0b1cb0f)
District 7 (https://reports.mysidewalk.com/456436e4dc)
District 8 (https://reports.mysidewalk.com/949ffbfeb80
District 9 (https://reports.mysidewalk.com/2be558423e)
District 10 (https://reports.mysidewalk.com/ddf7d2ed36)
District 11 (https://reports.mysidewalk.com/dc4243ae50)

Additional Resources:

American Spend too much time in cars: https://slate.com/business/2023/06/suburbs-driving-traffic-housing-affordable-solutions.html

Neighborhood Improvement Strategy: https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/departments/neighborhoods/improvements

Wins and Losses:

Ann
W: Fort Worth health clinic to reconsider demolition of historic theater amid pushback
L: Downtown Fort Worth Library Closes with no real plan

EJ
W: WSJ article
L: Medstar 

We have a solid episode for you today as we discuss all parts of Fort Worth. Below is the lineup and links to follow along. Enjoy!

Short Story #1: Mayor Mattie Parker is taking a second job (https://fortworthreport.org/2023/06/23/fort-worth-mayor-mattie-parker-takes-part-time-chief-of-staff-job-at-cook-childrens/)

Short Story #2: City website got hacked on Friday (https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article276729116.html)

Short Story #3: I-35 North Tollway  opens (https://fortworthreport.org/2023/06/20/2-6-billion-i-35-tollway-opens-in-north-fort-worth-after-three-years-of-construction/)

Bonus: The Fort Worth City Council will consider a measure to release over 1,400 acres from its extraterritorial jurisdiction.

https://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/news/2023/06/23/fort-worth-etj-burleson-bear-creek.html

Big Story: A&M breaks ground with big news of business partners (https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article276569861.html)

Wins:
EJ - Shaq's Fort Worth concert
Ann - Trinity Pride Fest

Loss:
EJ - Teen Homicides 
Ann - Fort Worth sprawl and how we approach growing the city

Extra links and call to actions

Drive-thru article  Ann mentions during her loss: https://www.cnn.com/2023/06/24/business/drive-thru-fast-food-chick-fil-a-urban-planning/index.html

Wallstreet Journal article EJ mentions during the North Fort Worth sprawl conversation: https://www.wsj.com/articles/cities-real-estate-bonds-taxes-c6736f8b

CCPD Grants 2023: https://youtu.be/H1-bXSr_O7c
Training is required to be eligible to apply.
Upcoming Training - Program Grants Training will be held on June 29, 2023
IN-PERSON 1:00 – 2:30 PM. To RSVP, please follow this link (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fy2024-ccpd-rfp-training-program-grants-tickets-651202102017)

Download the myFW app: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/myfw/id1463082731

The National Juneteenth Museum just hosted its first event in the city. Ann and EJ were in attendance and absolutely moved by the history, present, and future of the connection between Juneteenth and Fort Worth. Jarred Howard is the CEO of the National Juneteenth Museum. We sit down with him to talk about the project and how we Fort Worthians can get involved. Enjoy!

Short Story #1: U.S. representative speaks out against Tarrant elections chief finalist (https://www.star-telegram.com/news/politics-government/article276400031.html)

Short Story #2: What’s Next for Fort Worth’s City Hall? Building could be reimagined as police facility, library branch (https://fortworthreport.org/2023/06/13/whats-next-for-fort-worths-city-hall-building-could-be-reimagined-as-police-facility-library-branch/)

Short Story #3: Speaker series to support construction of National Juneteenth Museum in Fort Worth (https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/speaker-series-to-support-construction-of-national-juneteenth-museum-in-fort-worth/3278268/)

BIG STORY: A conversation with the CEO of the National Juneteenth Museum

Wins and Losses

Ann's
Win: https://fortworthreport.org/2023/06/15/what-will-define-success-of-panther-island-fort-worth-leaders-look-at-question-through-a-different-lens/
Loss: https://fortworthreport.org/2023/06/13/city-leaders-have-a-plan-to-tackle-environmental-justice-in-southeast-fort-worth-residents-say-its-not-enough/

EJ's
Win: https://fortworthreport.org/2023/06/15/whose-house-hughes-house-new-housing-development-in-stop-six-is-a-nod-to-community-leader/
Loss: Hot as Hell Outside

Ann and EJ turn a chapter as they host their first podcast together without Jimmy. They are joined by Tyler Long, one of the organizers of Trinity Pride Fest.

Election Results
District 11: Jeanette Martinez: https://fortworthreport.org/2023/06/10/martinez-makes-history-district-11-elects-first-latina-to-city-council/
FWISD District 5: Kevin Lynch: https://fortworthreport.org/2023/06/10/west-fort-worth-isd-voters-send-newcomer-to-school-board-over-one-term-incumbent/
TCC Precinct #4:

Short Story #1: Cultural District landmark too old to save: What will be Fort Worth arts center’s fate?
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article276186686.html

Final Report on the Art Center
https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/files/assets/public/government/documents/gendy/final-report-of-1300-gendy-task-force.pdf

Support Fort Worth Art
https://instagram.com/supportfortworthart?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Short Story #2: G.K. Maenius, Tarrant County administrator since 1988, will be tough to replace, many say
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article276220411.html#storylink=cpy

Short Story #3:  Fort Worth’s Bivens to Lead Regional Transportation Council
https://fortworthinc.com/news/fort-worth%E2%80%99s-bivens-to-lead-regional-transportation-council/

Big Story: Trinity Pride Fest with Tyler Long

https://trinitypridefw.org/
https://www.lgbtqsaves.org/
https://www.finnsplacetx.org/
Yesterqueer Fort Worth

Tyler's Podcast 👇🏿
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/queer-contxt/id1625420773

Wins and Losses

EJ:
W: FWR article: https://fortworthreport.org/2023/06/04/where-i-live-west-meadowbrook-provides-peace-proximity-and-prosperity/
L: Mattie Parker's response to the queer community about the LGBTQ+ book challenge  https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article276166276.html

Ann:
W: https://www.star-telegram.com/news/business/article276143411.html
L: https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article276186686.html

BUY TICKETS
National Juneteenth Museum event at I.M. Terrell Academy:
https://www.fortworth.com/event/uniting-voices%3A-the-national-juneteenth-museum-speaker-series/34160/

We are back with a jam-packed episode. It is Jimmy's last show, and we announce our new official cohost! The big story discusses the latest census data around Fort Worth's growth and the recent article in the Texas Monthly about Fort Worth possibly passing Austin if growth rates remain the same. We also talk about film incentives and what is going on with the discriminatory market on Magnolia. Enjoy!

Short Story #1: Jimmy's last show

Short Story #2: Texas approves a statewide $200 Million incentive for the film industry:

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/05/30/fort-worth-applauds-legislatures-approval-of-200-million-in-film-incentives/

Short Story #3: Discriminatory Market and Mayor Mattie Parker's Book Challenge

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/06/02/a-step-backwards-community-rallies-around-lgbtq-vendor-denied-spot-in-magnolia-market/

https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/pride-challenge-removed-fort-worth-mayors-summer-reading-challenge-complaints/287-70facef4-855f-4d46-99c2-d050f3e768da

Big Story: Fort Worth's growth and what we are doing about it

https://www.texasmonthly.com/news-politics/texas-census-update/

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/05/29/where-in-north-texas-is-growth-happening-new-regional-data-shows-smaller-cities-are-leading-the-charge/

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/05/30/what-can-fort-worth-learn-from-other-land-banks-across-the-country/

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/06/01/fort-worths-eastside-transportation-plan-offers-comprehensive-approach-to-safety-land-use/

https://twitter.com/UrbanFortWorth/status/1659261322180141069

Wins:

- Meta supports the National Juneteenth Museum:

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/06/01/national-juneteenth-museum-announces-new-partnership-with-meta/

- The Art of Dying event at Leaves Bookshop

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/06/01/the-art-of-dying-fort-worth-business-aims-to-plan-support-through-death/

- Trinity Metro bus system's new bus stops

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/05/30/trinity-metros-modern-bus-stops-could-change-how-residents-view-public-transit/

Losses:

- District 11 drama
- Attacks on companies support Pride Month

We have another stellar podcast episode for you, as we have two outstanding guests this week. Dee Lara O'Neal and Nydia Cardenas are Latinx women who grew up in Fort Worth, Texas, and have traveled with a plethora of knowledge and perspectives. We discuss the significant urgency we should all have about the Tarrant County Election Chief Position and why Marc Veasey and company are writing a letter to the federal government. We also hit the spicy drama that is going on in District 11 as Tara Maldonaldo endorses Rick Herring. Then we hit the big topic: Why some Hispanics identify with white supremacy. 

We will be off next week, so get a beverage and enjoy this meaningful and dynamic conversation. Links below:

SHORT STORY #1: Congressman, others urge feds to investigate Tarrant County judge over voting rights, and Tarrant GOP wants to eliminate countywide voting and go back to paper ballots

https://www.star-telegram.com/news/politics-government/article275433646.html


https://www.star-telegram.com/news/politics-government/article275583861.html

SHORT STORY #2: Tara Maldonaldo endorses Rick Herring for District 11 and why has this created an entanglement for the community

https://www.instagram.com/p/CsbPU7ALnls/?igshid=MmJiY2I4NDBkZg%3D%3D

https://www.star-telegram.com/news/politics-government/election/article275581041.html

SHORT STORY #3: County Jails are strained to keep guards and fill vacant positions

https://www.dallasnews.com/news/crime/2023/05/02/dallas-county-jail-strains-to-keep-guard-vacancies-at-bay-with-many-close-to-retirement/

https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article269724661.html

BIG STORY: Machismo, misogyny, misinformation: Why some Hispanic people become white supremacists

https://www.dallasnews.com/news/crime/2023/05/15/is-it-unusual-for-a-hispanic-to-adopt-white-supremacist-beliefs/

https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2019/07/30/simple-math-that-should-keep-republicans-up-night/

https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2023/01/30/whats-the-matter-with-men

https://www.wsj.com/articles/college-university-fall-higher-education-men-women-enrollment-admissions-back-to-school-11630948233

Wins and Losses:

https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article273782575.html

https://dallasweekly.com/2023/05/impact-ventures-bringing-capital-to-the-culture/ 

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/05/10/a-world-of-hurt-more-teen-girls-and-gay-bisexual-students-feel-hopeless-data-shows/

This episode was full of insight and honest conversations about making a difference in Fort Worth and the greater Tarrant County area. The big story is a conversation with Leah King, the CEO of United Way Tarrant County, who is leading the organization in its second centennial. We talk about UW priorities, the safety of our children, and the Fort Worth way. Our guest host is Brian Renteria, a higher educator, and multi-generational Latinx Fort Worthian. Brian and EJ discuss Mattie Parker's statement about the Allen Mall Massacre and HB2744. We shine a light on the work that must happen around Robert Miller's death and much more! Below are links to everything discussed. Enjoy!

SHORT STORY #1: Mattier Parker's Statement About HB2744

https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article275203506.html

https://www.instagram.com/p/CsBm1h6L4qT/

SHORT STORY #2: Experts Call Robert Miller's Death a Lie

https://www.star-telegram.com/news/politics-government/article275222971.html

Sign the form to join the community in demanding the Department of Justice to investigate Tarrant County Jail: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSehm7avCfpyJBHnbSXMkHbWwEaoNrflUe69eVIo7VKhri8ybQ/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0&fbzx=4236988865572576993

SHORT STORY #3: Refugee Center Pauses Welcoming New Arrivals

https://www.keranews.org/news/2023-05-10/refugee-services-of-texas-announces-major-budget-shortfall-pause-in-new-arrivals

BIG STORY: Candid Conversation with Leah King about Making Generational Impact and Navigating the Fort Worth Way

Support United Way Tarrant County -> GetUnitedTarrant.org

WINS
https://dallasinnovates.com/ut-arlington-gets-12-million-gift-from-alumnus-kelcy-warren-its-largest-donation-ever/

https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article275305526.html

LOSSES
https://www.keranews.org/news/2023-05-10/a-fort-worth-bar-hosted-an-all-ages-drag-show-the-tarrant-county-judge-wants-a-state-investigation

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/05/11/mo-bull-economic-impact-of-pbr-events-expand-in-second-year/

Today our guest cohosts are Brian Dixon and Hayden Blackburn. We discuss the election results but also what prevents engagement in Tarrant County, where only 8.9 percent of registered voters completed their ballot.  Below are the stories referenced:

Short Story 1: Yellowstone and HB4419
https://fortworthreport.org/2023/05/04/tinderholt-action-blocks-film-bill-favored-by-fort-worth-draws-criticism-from-goldman/

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/05/05/film-industry-bill-backed-by-fort-worth-lives-another-day-scheduled-for-house-vote-on-saturday/

https://www.wsj.com/articles/yellowstone-show-taylor-sheridan-paramount-production-costs-67e634ee

Short Story 2: Is Fort Worth the Next Silicon Valley?
https://www.star-telegram.com/article274849591.html

Short Story 3: To combat the teacher shortage, Fort Worth-area schools look to grow their own
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/crossroads-lab/article274733136.html

Big Story: Election Results
https://fortworthreport.org/2023/05/07/voter-turnout-low-again-for-tarrant-county-local-elections/

Additional References:

The Hunger for WFH Jobs is Here to Stay
https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2022/11/27/remote-jobs-economy/

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-03-25/work-from-home-endures-defying-pushback-from-bosses-like-dimon

America's Road Death Show an Alamaring Racial Gap
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/04/26/opinion/road-deaths-racial-gap.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare

Today starts our guest cohosts series, which we will have throughout May as we search for the next passionate voice for the 817 podcast. On this episode, EJ and Jimmy are joined by Ann Zadeh, former city council member and Community Design Fort Worth, executive director! The three discuss the current early voting numbers and what we should expect. They also talk about the Tarrant Appraisal District extension and the search for a new election chief due to the departure of Heider Garcia. The big story for this week's episode is a mash-up of several reports around the intersection between development and inclusivity when promoting Fort Worth to tourists and residents. How do we create space for both to work together? Well, press play, and find out what the team at 817 podcast had to say!

SHORT STORY 1: Early Voting Numbers

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/04/28/murphys-law-convenience-equity-why-fort-worth-residents-voted-early-this-year/

https://www.star-telegram.com/news/politics-government/article274330210.html

SHORT STORY 2: Tarrant Election Chief Position

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/04/26/kera-tarrant-county-looks-for-new-elections-chief-ohare-wont-rule-out-election-deniers-for-post/

SHORT STORY 3: TAD extended dispute time due to technical issues

https://news.yahoo.com/oversees-tx-appraisal-districts-tarrant-170523282.html

https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/tarrant-appraisal-district-extends-property-value-protest-deadline-says-automated-protest-tool-coming/3245459/?amp=1

BIG STORY: Neighborhood Development for Residents and Tourists

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/04/26/residents-want-visit-fort-worth-to-put-the-east-side-on-the-map-literally/

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/04/30/breathing-new-life-into-race-street-hasnt-been-easy-how-business-owners-keep-the-dream-alive/

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/04/27/nonprofit-group-could-help-guide-stockyards-on-its-upward-trajectory-council-member-says/

https://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/news/2023/04/24/southern-land-company-tim-downey.html

LOSSES

EJ:  https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article274647426.html
Jimmy: https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/obituaries/article274756021.html
Ann: https://fortworthreport.org/2023/04/28/murphys-law-convenience-equity-why-fort-worth-residents-voted-early-this-year/

WINS

EJ: https://wallethub.com/edu/best-cities-to-start-a-business/2281
Jimmy: https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article274739051.html
Ann: https://www.cbsnews.com/texas/video/new-skate-park-opens-in-fort-worths-southside/

 

Short Story #1 Fort Worth officials say flood mitigation projects won’t be delayed by Panther Island funding move

https://fortworthreport.org/2023/04/18/fort-worth-officials-say-flood-mitigation-projects-wont-be-delayed-by-panther-island-funding-move/

Short Story #2 Will streetcars return to the city?
https://fortworthreport.org/2023/04/18/will-streetcars-return-to-fort-worth-with-growth-comes-a-renewed-interest-in-project/

Short Story #3 Could Fort Worth add another skyscraper?
https://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/news/2023/04/20/southern-land-company-luxury-tower.html

Big Story: Why you need to make sure you vote?

https://www.star-telegram.com/news/politics-government/article274586831.html

https://eedition.star-telegram.com/popovers/dynamic_article_popover.aspx?artguid=121dc88a-3d9c-4adf-85bc-9eda40123bba&appcode=FORSTA&eguid=a2599c23-86ec-4338-b64d-7dae64b978b1&pnum=9#

Losses

Jimmy:
https://twitter.com/sawyerhackett/status/1649231594719248392?s=42&t=eDayHR794e6MfQg1uTqn3g

EJ:
https://www.star-telegram.com/article274489526.html

Wins

Jimmy:
https://fortworthreport.org/2023/04/17/forest-park-pools-11-million-makeover-begins-in-may/

We have a treat for you today! This is our first episode in our new studio space, allowing us to have our first in-person interview!! Since starting our podcast, we have been inspired by Pamela Young and the entire team at United Fort Worth (https://linktr.ee/unitedfortworth). They are local leaders in the conversation around immigration, policing, and BIPOC empowerment. We discuss important topics we should consider as we enter the polls in less than a week. Later in the episode, we also think through the long-term needs of candidates for city council. 

Short Story #1 
Fort Worth plans to take $14M from flood projects to pay for Panther Island work:
https://fortworthreport.org/2023/04/14/fort-worth-plans-to-take-14m-from-flood-projects-to-pay-for-panther-island-work/

Short Story #2
Tarrant County wants to build a $50 million law enforcement training center. Is it needed?
https://fortworthreport.org/2023/04/12/tarrant-county-wants-to-build-a-50-million-law-enforcement-training-center-is-it-needed/

Short Story #3 
County, Fort Worth disagree how they can share existing $101 million training centerhttps://fortworthreport.org/2023/04/13/county-fort-worth-disagree-how-they-can-share-existing-101-million-training-center/

Big Story: Interview with Pamela Young with United Fort Worth
https://linktr.ee/unitedfortworth

Wins
Fort Worth weighs incentives for expansive corporate R&D and technology centerhttps://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/news/2023/04/14/sinclair-digital-services-fort-worth.html

Abraham Alexander new album
https://open.spotify.com/album/5uS5w8V1auSyzYDsVgDQIQ?si=oPV83HvERGG61iPQf5nReA

Losses
Unexpected City branding
Fort Worth #2 Cheating City
https://www.fox4news.com/news/dallas-tops-list-of-cities-for-cheaters-in-u-s-fort-worth-ranks-no-2

Jimmy and EJ dive into the nitty gritty of campaign finance reports, and we are shocked to see who is most funded and why the most competitive races have very little dollars invested. We start the pod with some crazy stories that involve FW and the metroplex, then hit two update stories before diving into the reports!

Short Story #1: District 5 Gossip and Bedford Preacher Ponzi Scheme
- https://fortworthreport.org/2023/04/05/fort-worth-city-council-candidate-ineligible-to-run-according-to-police-report-of-shooting/
- https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2023-03-27/texas-preacher-doc-gallagher-stole-24-million-with-ponzi-scheme
- BONUS: Clarence Thomas https://www.propublica.org/article/clarence-thomas-scotus-undisclosed-luxury-travel-gifts-crow

Short Story #2: FW's new water source
https://fortworthreport.org/2023/04/04/fort-worth-area-cities-have-a-new-water-source-its-coming-from-a-familiar-place/

Short Story #3: FW Innovation Districts
https://dallasinnovates.com/fort-worth-doubles-down-on-innovation-districts-with-new-policy-designations/

Big Story: Candidate Finance Report Analysis
https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/departments/citysecretary/elections

Wins
- https://fortworthreport.org/2023/04/06/fort-worth-reflects-on-the-discriminatory-practice-of-redlining-in-upcoming-exhibit/
- New skate park
Losses
- Ted Cruz in town (https://www.keranews.org/business-economy/2023-04-05/cruz-prioritizes-more-jobs-higher-wages-more-opportunity-during-fort-worth-chamber-meeting)
- New skyscraper

EJ and Jimmy have some MAJOR news to announce on this podcast. If you feel called to be EJ's next cohost, reach out at ejc@hey.com.

The big story this week is the Fort Worth Report Roundtable Discussions. We hit each district seat, including the mayoral race.

Short stories include homeless numbers spike, especially for families and veterans, and Pete Buttigieg visiting DFW airport. 

This is a historical episode as EJ and Jimmy host the first District 11 candidate gathering. All five candidates come together on the 817 podcasts to discuss their priorities, goals, and visions. Below is each candidate's campaign information. Early voting starts April 24th and ends May 2nd. Election day is May 6th. Enjoy!

Ricardo Avita - Fort Worth Native and Co-Founder of Hemphil No Se Vende: https://www.ricardoavitiaforcitycouncil.com/

Christopher Johnson - Entrepreneur and President of Poly Heights Neighborhood Association: https://m.facebook.com/people/Christopher-Johnson-for-Fort-Worth-City-Council-District-8/100064371841396/

Jeanette Martinez - Fort Worth Native and Executive Administrator to Tarrant County Precinct One Commissioner Brooks: https://www.jeanetteforfw.com/

Rick Herring - Fort Worth Native and President, Carter Riverside Neighborhood Association: https://rickherringforfortworth.com/

Tara Maldonaldo Wilson - Medical Professional and Former District 4 Candidate: https://www.votetarawilson.com/

Texas and the greater DFW area were featured in the Economist magazine. It was the main story and filled with tons of information. Jimmy and EJ break down the essential points and why Texas is leading in more than just oil, guns, and bbq.

Short Stories:

1) FWISD leaked conversation about cutting jobs
https://fortworthreport.org/2023/03/15/job-cuts-in-fort-worth-isd-could-include-campus-staffs-according-audio-of-closed-meeting/

2) FW City Council considers giving $1.5M incentive  to new video game company  https://fortworthreport.org/2023/03/17/fort-worth-city-council-to-consider-giving-1-5-million-incentive-for-video-game-company-new-office/

3) FW Chamber splits into two orgs. Is that a good thing?
https://fortworthreport.org/2023/03/15/abbott-pushes-new-economic-incentives-states-business-climate-in-fort-worth-address/

Big Story: Texas Economist Magazine Feature
https://www.economist.com/briefing/2023/03/16/texass-latest-boom-is-its-biggest-yet

https://www.economist.com/leaders/2023/03/16/why-america-is-going-to-look-more-like-texas

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-03-15/10-top-cities-where-100-000-salary-goes-the-furthest#xj4y7vzkg

Wins
LGBTQ+ Community Health Fair
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cpv43P2rLFW/

Texas Bill to Allow Groceries to Sell Alchohol
https://fortworthreport.org/2023/03/18/texas-bill-pushes-ready-to-drink-cocktails-to-be-sold-in-grocery-and-convenience-stores/

Losses
Train postponed

Playing nice
https://fortworthreport.org/2023/03/18/not-all-city-council-candidates-promise-to-fight-fair-heres-why/

SHORT STORIES: Education Recap

• Dr. Ramsey's first six months at FWISD: https://fortworthreport.org/2023/03/08/six-months-on-the-job-fort-worth-isd-superintendent-addresses-major-issues-in-public-education-and-offers-solutions/
• Fort Worth ISD to eliminate and change admin jobs in reorganization: https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/education/article273026525.html
• FWISD 22,000 GED program: https://fortworthreport.org/2023/03/05/were-changing-lives-fort-worth-isd-to-serve-22000-in-adult-ed-program-this-year/
• https://www.wsj.com/articles/u-s-population-growth-remains-sluggish-despite-uptick-this-year-11671723045

BIG STORY: Is it a development or density problem?

• Alliance Texas Surpasses: $111B in Economic Impact https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/news/2023/3/alliancetexas
• East Fort Wirth: https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article272592710.html
• Gateway Park - https://fortworthreport.org/2023/03/09/opportunity-for-a-win-gateway-park-could-soon-see-millions-in-public-private-investment/
• Efficient Transit System: https://fortworthreport.org/2023/03/11/plans-for-a-more-efficient-bus-system-along-east-lancaster-hit-a-speed-bump/
• Study finds the struggle to the city's development process: https://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/news/2023/03/09/fort-worth-development-real-estate-council.html
• LanCarte Commercial Reaches 100 % Occupancy at 314 S. Main spot.: https://fwtx.com/news/building-on-the-near-southside-at-full-occupancy/

WINS AND LOSSES

Jimmy Win: https://fortworthreport.org/2023/03/08/new-group-aims-to-bring-fort-worth-entrepreneur-community-out-from-under-the-radar/

EJ Win:

https://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/news/2023/03/07/carhartt-fort-worth-distribution-center.html

Jimmy Loss: https://fortworthreport.org/2023/03/06/a-26-million-dilemma-fort-worth-solicits-feedback-on-future-of-fort-worth-community-arts-center/

EJ Loss:

https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/crime/article272985445.html