This felt like a long week as Texas politics continue to protect the wrong things. 

Jimmy and EJ start the pod with three short stories which include the TxDOT I-30W study, Fort Worth's PR contract, and Councilwomen Biven's frustration over how $28 million in stimulus spending was introduced to the council.

The big story was highlighting the ramifications of Roe v Wade in Texas and exploring what to do next.

Here is a list of the stories mentioned:

TxDOT:
https://fortworthreport.org/2022/06/22/if-anyone-can-do-it-its-fort-worth-community-urban-planners-look-to-proposed-i-30-expansion-to-link-neighborhoods/

FW PR Agency: https://fortworthreport.org/2022/06/22/why-fort-worth-is-using-a-pr-and-ad-agency-for-economic-development/

City Council:
https://fortworthreport.org/2022/06/23/we-probably-need-to-step-back-fort-worth-council-members-question-staff-proposal-for-28-million-in-stimulus-spending%ef%bf%bc/

Big Story:

https://fortworthreport.org/2022/06/24/what-happens-next-for-abortion-law-in-texas/

https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/article262870028.html

Dante Williams was just a kid from the Funk who ended up building a tight-knit group of brothers from the Eastside who are influencing how our city is shaped. If you do not know Dante or his nonprofit  Community Frontline, get to know them, as I am sure they will be making an imprint on your and our future.

Community Frontline: https://communityfrontline.com/

DIG Contracting: https://dig-contracting.com/

Jimmy and EJ dissect this Fort Worth Report article (https://fortworthreport.org/2022/06/07/fort-worth-council-members-reflect-on-first-year-in-office%ef%bf%bc/). 

Budget season has also started for the city and there has been some movement on short-term rentals in the city.

Jimmy and EJ are back from a long weekend and ready to tango. A lot of movement is happening around the development of Fort Worth. The guys spend time discussing black tourism, aerospace manufacturing, affordable housing, and the possible revitalization of East Lancaster.

We were not planning on doing a pod this week, but due to the horrific tragedy in Uvalde where our fellow Texans were massacred, we felt we had to check in on the community. We are thinking of every one of you, and now more than ever, we need to take action and be bold for the future of Texas.

Sometimes you have to play defense instead of offense. EJ and Jimmy share who they are voting for in the Republican runoff and why 96% of voters should do the same. Bud Kennedy had a great article in the Sunday paper that plays as the backdrop to this episode. Enjoy and share!

Here is a list of Republicans Jimmy and EJ are voting for:

Attorney General: George P. Bush

Commissioner of General Land Accounts: Tim Westley

Railroad Commissioner: Sarah Stogner

US Representative, District 30: Pick your poison

Member, State Board of Education District 13: Kathryn Monette

State Representative, District 91: David Lowe

State Representative, District 93: Laura Hill

Criminal District Attorney: Matt Krause

County Criminal Court No. 5: Mamie Johnson

Jimmy and Ej recorded this episode in the middle of the week to bring us their opinions and perspectives on the election results. They also highlight the upcoming May 24th election and discuss the city's obsession with funding cops.

EJ and Jimmy recorded this pod on election day. They talk about the investments Fort Worth is willing and not willing to make, and the impact voting has on all of us.

This week Fort Worth felt like a big city as we gain national media attention for being the fist city to mine Bitcoin. Is this a good thing for the city? Listen to this episode to get a full perspective. The guys also discuss what happened at Paschal and why we should all be voting against Proposition D in the current bond election.

Make sure to share with a friend and check-in for new pods every Monday morning!

Jimmy is back from being an international icon and has graced the 817 podcast with his presence again to talk propositions in this upcoming bond package. Today is the start of early voting and every day is a fight for a city we love to be prosperous. We talk Beto, Mercy Church, and the lack of leadership among Tarrant County's jail system.

This is a full episode as even the wins and losses could have been short stories. So stay tapped in and enjoy the hang with your favorite local podcast!

BOND PACKAGE STORY: https://www.star-telegram.com/news/politics-government/election/voter-guide/article260348890.html

Proposition A | Streets & Pedestrian Mobility Infrastructure | $369,218,300
Jimmy: No EJ: Yes

Proposition B | Park & Recreation Improvements | $123,955,500
Both: Yes

Proposition C | Public Library Improvements | $12,505,200
Both: Yes

Proposition D | Police and Fire Safety Improvements | $39,321,000
Both: No

Proposition E | Open Space Conservation | $15,000,000
Both: Yes

Proposition F | Mayor and Council Pay
Both: Yes

Proposition G | Metes and Bounds for Districts
Both: Yes

Proposition H | Post termination hearing
Both: Yes

Proposition I | Time to Review Petitions
Both: Yes

Proposition J | Tax Assessment and Collection
Both: Yes

Proposition K | City Health Department
Both: Yes

Proposition L | Newspaper Notice – Sale of Property
Both: Yes

Proposition M | Paying for Sidewalks and Curbs
Both: Yes

Proposition N | Timing of assessment roll
Both: Yes

Proposition O | Public service corp reports
Both: No

Proposition P | Official advertising contract
Both: Yes

Proposition Q | Annexation Elections
Both: Yes

Proposition R | Independent Auditors
Both: No

This week Fort Worth hosted not one but TWO art festivals downtown!

Ryan and EJ reviewed the Downtown Inc. 40th annual meeting and the 10-year plan that the org has for the city. Take this survey if you want the org to hear your feedback. https://www.dfwi.org/plan2033

They also discuss The Neighborhoods of East Fort Worth Alliance's paper outlining its communities' views on short-term rentals like Airbnb and VRBO. 

The big story is Demoract county judge candidate Deborah Peoples getting an endorsement from prominent Republican Steve Murrin. What does that mean for the country judge race? Who is next? And who will remain quiet? 

Side note: The team will be off next week for Easter.

We talk about map Anna, the upcoming bond election, and what we should know about our city council's trip to pitch FC Barcelona in this episode.

The big story is Reata and where should the iconic steak restaurant go if they decide to leave downtown.

EJ is joined by Ryan Tiglas, a long-time listener and friend of Jimmy's who will be out the next few weeks.

It is also Fort Worth Reports year birthday, so give them some love and donate: 

https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=fortworthreport&campaign=7014x000001C5ZPAA0

The city council selects a map for redistricting. Jimmy and EJ went through the revisions and what were some challenges along the way. They then discuss the impact Senate Bill 1 is having on elections. The big story is a 'Zero and Hero' segment highlighting people who are doing good work and those who are harming the city's growth. Lastly, the guys finished with wins and losses.

Here are two campaigns they mentioned that could use community support:

Funkytown Fridge:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/funkytownfridge-distribution-center?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer

Justice for Alyssa:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/8pjgnr-justice-for-alyssa?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer

With March Madness in town, Jimmy and EJ discuss the idea of Fort Worth becoming a sports city. Several journalist in the area has wrote articles about this strategy for economic growth and if its a good one to grow a city.

Tomorrow is the last public meeting for redistricting so the guys also go through the three versions of Map X that is being discussed.

Jimmy and EJ were in Austin for SXSW! Shout out to Visit Fort Worth for allowing us to be a part of their setup for the city at the Container Bar. Jimmy and EJ get right into discussing Mercy church's illegal involvement in politics, Texas Wesleyan's Hunger Strike,  and Sundance Square's new small business opportunity. During the big story, they spend time telling people around the world what they should know about Fort Worth and then share their wins and losses for the week. 

Tarrant County's primary results are concerning and it shows how event the old-guard Republicans are threatened by Mercy culture. At a national and state level we are seeing how crucial Tarrant County is for both Republicans and Democrats. Beto and Abbott were here last week and Biden is coming on Tuesday.  We have a lot of updates as we prepare to head to SXSW next week!

This is a crucial week for us Fort Worthian... but with international news taking priority, we might miss the opportunity to make some real change. Jimmy and EJ talk about the upcoming redistricting meeting today (we thought it was on Thursday when recording the pod) and why you should vote Republican on Tuesday (including for Cary Moon if you are in his district).

The big story is again economic development as penalties for AirBnBs heighten, and Techstars, a tech accelerator, join the innovation ecosystem. Here are the three steps we all need to take as 817ers to mobilize for the things we believe in:

1.) On Tuesday, vote in the Republican primary for Huffines for Governor and Bush for attorney general. These are the two biggest ones to get Abbott and Paxton out of there. If you reside in Moon's district, vote for him as well so he can leave the city council early. To understand why to do this, listen to the pod!

2.) Sign this AirBnB petition as local AirBnB hosts are going to the council meeting on Tuesday to share their case and why they are essential to creating a modern travelers city.

3.) City council has public comments about redistricting tonight (we thought it was on Thursday when we were recording this show). Attend or share your voice for transparency and committing to the recommended map by the committee.  



 

Visit Fort Worth had their grand annual event last week, which led to Jimmy and EJ bantering about missing the shindig and if we should be celebrating in the first place. Based on the stories this week, the 817 tag team duo has some not-so-friendly opinions to get off their chest around economic development, our tourist obsessed economy, and redistricting.

Early voting has started! Jimmy and EJ discuss how to optimize your vote in March by taking advantage of Texas's open primaries. We also discuss the upcoming bond packages, including increasing salaries for the council and mayor.  

CDFI Friendly Fort Worth expects to see up to $250 million in new CDFI lending over the next five years and Christina Brooks and her team are leading the launch. We sit with her to discuss her first two years in this brand new position as Chief Equity Officer of Fort Worth and also understand the basics of the CDFI application process.

We start the pod with short stories and end the pod with an assortment of L's.

Apply now: https://www.cdfifriendlyfortworth.org/borrowers

Jimmy and EJ have a jampacked episode for listeners! This is a full episode where you want to stick around until the end.  They start with CTFI providing $200+ million funding to underrepresented Fort Worthians and then move into school board/ city redistricting. The big story is Panther Island and its boost from the federal government of $403 million.   

This week, EJ and Jimmy focus on a number of small stories from around Tarrant County, on top of reflecting on Colleyville being the center of international news on Saturday. The old KKK building on N Main looks at progress to become a safe space for Fort Worth, and with the announcement of Kent Scribner retiring, we look at what may be next for Fort Worth ISD. 

This week we have a jam-packed episode that includes a guest interview with Harrison Mantas.

Harrison is a government reporter at Star-Telegram who joins us to hit an array of topics, including discussing the seven maps selected by the redistricting committee and upcoming agenda items for the city council.

To participate in the next redistricting meeting, click here.

Jimmy and EJ start the pod by talking about this NY Times article that shows Fort Worth in the top 20 most expensive places for singles looking to rent a studio.

Happy New Year to all of you who make us a part of your life! We appreciate you and are excited to continue to deliver a fresh perspective on the news in Fort Worth. The big story today is about the funding for roads and how North Fort Worth councilmen are fighting for projects when recent data shows that stretches of road where concentrations of people have been killed or seriously hurt in crashes in Fort Worth are predominantly in neighborhoods where at least 75% of the residents are people of color.

Map of the new roads that might make the bond package: https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1wgsL71Fg1EdjObXhklVBheyfiE8k1Ujf&hl=en&usp=sharing

WE ARE BACK!! Did you miss us? We have a lot to catch up on so we jump right in. EJ shares his perspective about Rivian. Jimmy leads us through several articles about property in the city and how we invest in affordable housing, community nature areas, and hotels.

Here is a list of new restaurants to get excited for in 2022 -> https://www.star-telegram.com/entertainment/restaurants/eats-beat/article256432231.html

Jimmy and EJ catch up after the holidays and share a lot of updates from the past two weeks. The big story was Palo Pinto Mountains State Park and Aaron Dean's lawyer trying to push the trial outside of Tarrant County. We also share why redistricting meetings were canceled in December and how no one was aware of Panther Island being drawn out of Kay Granger's district. 

Jimmy and EJ share updates on dates to participate in redistricting and the new city council schedule. Aaron Dean's trial is finally set but some believe the trial should be held outside of Tarrant County. The big story is about elites coming to Hotel Dryce and causing a ruckus.

Jimmy and EJ find it ironic that the person in a position to lead District 4 after Careless Cary is a caretaker.

The two sit down with Tara Wilson, an ER nurse who recently announced her campaign for the newly vacant city council seat.

Before the conversation with Tara, the guys discuss Aggieland North and how Texas A&M plans to build a new $250M research campus in downtown Fort Worth.

**Support Tara Wilson's campaign by donating or volunteering -> https://www.votetarawilson.com/

Jimmy and EJ's involvement in the city led them down interesting perspectives around redistricting and election results. EJ discusses interesting data from the Economist that supports Jimmy and his perspective on the struggle for progress in the city and America as a whole.

Economist article EJ references through out the big story:

https://www.economist.com/briefing/2021/11/06/the-democrats-social-spending-package-cannot-repair-the-american-dream

Submit a redistricting map before Nov 12th
https://fortworth-redistricting.fortworthtexas.gov/redistricting/

Software training on how to get started https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oudhcJnbCHs

This week, EJ and Jimmy break down everything you need to know about the November 2 election! Here is the link they are working off during the episode: https://ballotpedia.org/Texas_Proposition_5,_State_Commission_on_Judicial_Conduct_Authority_Over_Candidates_for_Judicial_Office_Amendment_(2021)

EJ sits down with two ecosystem builders to discuss the state of entrepreneurship in Fort Worth.

We will discuss this white paper about Fort Worth's startup scene (http://startupfortworth.com) and how to participate in Global Entrepreneurship Week (https://gewfortworth.org/) next month!

Jimmy is back and shares his takes on recent developments in Fort Worth while he was out. They discuss new information about the Evans & Rosedale development that makes this pod an important one to listen to.

This is a robust episode as there were a lot of significant updates to get through this week. The main story discusses the new congressional maps and the impact they have on Fort Worth. The small stories get deep as EJ and Tony nerd out about real estate and the chase for Rivian in Fort Worth. They go down a long conversation around gentrification and why it is time for Texas to upgrade its image around energy.

Below are the stories mentioned:

SHORT STORY #1 What are we voting for in November?

First Short Story - Monday texas voter deadline
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/politics-government/article254641677.html

SHORT STORY #2 Innovation and Electric Vehicles

Rivian IPO 
- https://www.reuters.com/business/ev-maker-rivian-makes-ipo-filing-public-2021-10-01/

Ecoplex
https://fortworthreport.org/2021/10/0  2/fort-worth-could-become-home-to-environmental-museum-but-it-needs-to-fight-for-it/

Conservative states lead in renewable energy
https://www.economist.com/united-states/2021/10/02/americas-green-energy-industry-takes-on-the-fossil-fuel-lobby

SHORT STORY #3 Development in historic POC areas

Luxury housing lake como:
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article254563207.html

Rosedale/Evans 
https://fortworthbusiness.com/real-estate/evans-rosedale-development-expects-to-begin-3q-2022/

Stats EJ mention:
https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2021/09/25/beware-the-backlash-as-financiers-muscle-into-rental-property

_________________

BIG STORY -> Texas Redistricting and impact on Tarrant

New York Times Story about how Texas Republicans :
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/10/03/us/politics/texas-redistricting-map-2022.html

Maps would give Travis Harris seats
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/politics-government/article254557352.html

Map plan shift tarrant district from red to blue
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/politics-government/article254649732.html

Bridgewater equity project
https://fortworthreport.org/2021/09/26/fort-worth-project-looks-to-create-radically-inclusive-city/
__________

W- Women's march
Thousands join Women’s March in Fort Worth ahead of Supreme Court’s return to session 
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article254706347.html

W HSC AI 
In health care, many AI developers are white men. HSC is trying to diversify the field 
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/crossroads-lab/article254627992.html

L - Burn ban
As severe drought conditions hit North Texas, Tarrant County issues 90-day burn ban 
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/weather-news/article254674232.html

Jimmy is out so Tony joins the pod again to riff with EJ about several important stories that have happened in the last two weeks. Tarrant County will go through an election audit. The city budget is finalized. Redistricting is on the way. Who will get an additional seat? EJ and Tony share their perspective.

District Map and Income Data: https://drive.google.com/file/d/19L9ZaiCUaxAbyx3Qnvm7gOcUzzqv1Dp-/view?usp=sharing

STORIES MENTIONED:

$1,000 Vaccination Bonus:
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/coronavirus/article254464678.html

County Commissioner Salaries:
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/politics-government/article254418663.html#:~:text=Tarrant%20County%20commissioners%20approve%20raises%20for%20elected%20officials%2C%20including%20themselves&text=The%20Tarrant%20County%20commissioners%20on,temporarily%20derailed%20the%20public%20meeting.Tarrant

County Election:
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/politics-government/article254494317.html

Mayor Parker/City Budget:
https://fortworthreport.org/2021/09/23/listen-mayor-not-supportive-of-police-oversight-and-accountability-board-yet/

Latino Representation in City Council:
https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/crossroads-lab/article253377688.html

This week's guest is Kyle Walker, associate Professor of Geography and Director of the Center for Urban Studies at Texas Christian University. His research includes US immigration politics, the demography of cities and suburbs, and open data science.

Check out his new book: Analyzing US Census Data: Methods, Maps, and Models in R

This is a jampacked episode. We start the pod by talking about how Fort Worth made the Top 15 Cities in the U.S. according to Travel + Leisure's new list and what PBR's national rodeo event means to the city's brand.

The main story is urban development and how the suburbs are more diverse than we think.

This week show is a continuation of our anniversary pod as we dive into listener interviews to learn about the 817 pod community. We speak to Kent who grew up in Fort Worth and shares some important orgs with us, Ben an amateur comedian who is passionate about the arts, and Anthony a business professional who cares about giving back and keeping young talent in Tarrant County. Enjoy the show and your labor day weekend!

Enjoy this very special episode which is part one of a two part show where Jimmy and EJ talk with listeners and celebrate a year of working together. Thank you to all of you!!

Jimmy and EJ highlight the increase in funding for the Crime Control Prevention District and discuss what UT Arlington's new designation means for the city of Fort Worth.

In a week focused on masks in FWISD, EJ and Jimmy look to focus on some major stories that made slightly smaller headlines. First, they talk about two companies announcing potential relocation of major manufacturing facilities. Then, we start trying to unpack all of the budget decisions coming up, starting with the city budget for FY2022, and followed by the $809 million coming to Tarrant County through the American Rescue Act.

Finally, they break down the proposed $1.5 billion bond program for FWISD that'll be on the November 2 ballot, and talk about how the current uncertainty around masks and enrollment in school could affect voting on the bond.

If you're looking for more information about the FW budget meetings, here's the schedule: https://twitter.com/jessica_priest/status/1425204067329060866?s=10.

This week Tony and EJ dissect the rapid growth in Fort Worth as they review an article in the Star-Telegram about property taxes. 

We are seeing 15,000 to 20,000 people moving to the city year over year making us the second-fastest growing city in the country.

You also see the growth in the number of local podcasts we have about the city with the newest member being the mayor herself Mattie Parker.

This week we have a jammed pack episode with important updates about the city budget and the proposed 2022 bond package.

EJ is joined by Tony who works in teacher recruitment and is a friend of the pod. Tony provides a great perspective on what we should expect as Delta, Abbott, and federal funds impact our schools this year for all very different reasons.

City Council Information: (https://fortworthreport.org/2021/07/25/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-city-of-fort-worths-budget/)

Attend virtual town hall meetings in the coming months, contact your City Council members or speak during the budget hearings at 7 p.m. Aug. 24 and Sept. 14 at City Hall, 200 Texas St., or online. 

To speak at the budget hearings, register by 5 p.m. the day of the hearing. Register by clicking the speaker/comment card link on the agenda posted on fortworthtexas.gov. You also may register by calling the City Secretary’s Office at 817-392-6150 or 817-392-6150, faxing the request to 817-392-6196 or completing the speaker card in-person at the City Secretary’s Office at City Hall. 

You may speak between three to six minutes, depending on how many people you represent.

Participate in the 2022 Bond Program: (https://fortworthreport.org/2021/07/26/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-city-of-fort-worths-2022-proposed-bond-package/)

Go to one of the city’s open houses this month to learn more and ask staff questions. The open houses are at:

• 6 p.m. Thursday, July 29, at Future City Hall, 100 Energy Way
• 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 5, at Dunbar High School, 5700 Ramey Ave.
• 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 12, at Heritage Church of Christ, 4201 Heritage Trace Parkway
• 10 am. Saturday, Aug. 14, at R.D. Evans Community Center Gym, 3242 Lackland Road
• 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 19, at Doxology Church, 4805 Arborlawn Drive

Jimmy and EJ recap the news for the week. The big story is Cary Moon's soccer complex initiative. They also get into a debate about tourism and how much should a city rely on it. If you want your voice to be heard about tourism fill out Visit Fort Worth's tourism survey now. 

https://survey.cmix.com/959F22C2/7E301C4Q/en-US

Jimmy and EJ are back reviewing the big stories in Fort Worth. They discuss Democrats leaving the state and what is next to protect voting rights. They also spend time sharing new data around homelessness and evictions in the city. They finally also have a chance to walk through the Tarrant Regional Water District story reported by the Fort Worth Report.

Jimmy and EJ have an intimate conversation with Smooth Vega to learn his Fort Worth origin story as a Mexican American with big dreams and why politicians ask for his endorsement. 

In 2019 Smooth was inducted into the Music Hall of Fame and has worked to put on shows with Nipsey Hussle, Joyner Lucas, Royce 5’9, Joe Budden, Dave East, Bun B, Chamillionaire, The Game, Ginuwine, Erik B. & Rakim, Scarface, and countless others across the state of Texas.

On July 31st he is throwing a highly anticipated music festival called Centro Popular. https://www.centropopular.com/

Annette Gordon-Reed is an American historian and law professor at Harvard University. Dr. Gordon-Reed won sixteen book prizes, including the Pulitzer Prize in History in 2009 and the National Book Award in 2008, for The Hemingses of Monticello: An American Family.

Today she joins Jimmy and EJ to talk about her new book On Juneteenth and what Texas can do to correct its history to represent the truth rather than Hollywood.

You can get her book at The Dock Bookshop at 6637 Meadowbrook Dr. Fort Worth, TX 76112.

This episode is jampacked. Jimmy and EJ go over important info around redistricting schedule and the upcoming budget approval process for the city council. We also sit down with Supreme, a director of a new documentary about Fort Worth's gang history.

FW Redistricting Schedule: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Z1iTWxwVnksF9FZ_voKC0Ewj-LQg_fX5?usp=sharing

Budget Process: https://fortworthreport.org/2021/06/20/the-budget-is-the-new-council-members-first-big-task-but-their-impact-could-be-small/

Fort Worth was at the center of national news this weekend as Juneteenth becomes a federal holiday. What is next for the city and how do we continue with the momentum from the inspiring Opal Lee?

Jimmy starts the pod telling all of us about the ERCOT debacle and how we should all have a plan this summer to leave Texas when the grid goes down.

EJ breakdown the $180M stimulus Fort Worth is receiving and how the city plans to use the funds.  

Largest Rubber Duck comes to Fort Worth:
https://fwtx.com/culture/world-s-largest-rubber-duck-coming-to-fort-worth/

Jimmy and EJ get back to sharing weekly local news stories starting with discussing the recent education report that was shared with city council last week and the release of For Worth film 12 Might Orphans. The big story for today's episode is about how Mayor Betsy Price is wanting to become Judge Betsy Price.

Education Report Story (https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/education/article251998108.html)

12 Mighty Orphans (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XRLSGC0NFAY)

Betsy Price's Next Battle (https://www.texastribune.org/2021/06/10/betsy-price-tarrant-county-judge/)

Are you aware of Fort Worth's robust hip-hop scene? Today we sit down with Hear Fort Worth ambassador Lou Charle$ who is a top Fort Worth rapper who hosts an annual hip hop show called Louapalooza. Jimmy and EJ get deep with Lou learning about his new album Life Goes On, how it was as a local artist during the pandemic, and his opinions on Judge Alex Kim's comments about rap culture.

The results are here! The people of Fort Worth have voted. Now, what?!?

Jimmy and EJ have been looking forward to this episode after months of breaking down the mayoral and city council races. They sit down with a friend of the pod and political science professor at TCU, Emily Farris, to share her analysis and give some potential next steps for the people of Fort Worth.

This week, EJ and Jimmy sit down with one of the greatest connectors and influencers in the city of Fort Worth, Mitch Whitten.

Mitch is the Executive Vice President for Marketing & Strategy at @VisitFortWorth; a non-profit focused on enhancing Fort Worth’s image, economy, and quality of life through business and leisure tourism. 

We learn about the history of Fort Worth through the eyes of a true marketer and storyteller who loves his city and all the communities that make it special. Enjoy the interview!

As the state opens up and things start to feel normal, Governor Gregg Abbott and our political officials are behind closed doors making ultra-conservative legislation that impacts everyday Texans. Jimmy and EJ shares their opinions on what happened this week and why we should be concerned. 

Jimmy and EJ sit down with Emily Farris, an associate professor in Political Science at TCU to discuss the current election and how the establishment in Fort Worth influences the narrative. 

Dr. Farris specializes in American politics on issues of urban politics and racial and ethnic politics. She teaches courses at TCU in American politics, survey research, urban politics, civil rights, and racial and ethnic politics. Her current research includes projects relating to Latino political behavior, county sheriffs, and urban public policy.

Local journalism is a crucial value add for citizens to stay educated about their cities. It is also important to keep people in power accountable. Today we sit down with the CEO and Publisher of the Fort Worth Report, a nonprofit and nonpartisan news source for Fort Worth and Tarrant County.

Join their free newsletter now: http://fortworthreport.org/newsletter/

Referenced article in the pod: https://fortworthreport.org/2021/04/28/meet-fort-worths-biggest-history-buff-holding-mayoral-candidates-accountable/

Jimmy and EJ start with updated endorsements for mayor and share opinions on the jobs gap in Fort Worth.  We then have a strong ending with Fernando Peralta, City Council Runoff Candidate for District 9, to talk about representation in Fort Worth. Enjoy and share the pod with a friend.

Learn more about Fernando Peralta -> https://www.fernandoperalta.com/

Jimmy and EJ react to the election results that came on Saturday night. They go through each district council seat and let you know which ones are going to a runoff. Lastly, they go through their wins and losses and why they are still hopeful for the city.

Reference Links:

Doyle Fine: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1821475568002375

Fort Worth Memories Museum: https://fortworthreport.org/2021/04/28/meet-fort-worths-biggest-history-buff-holding-mayoral-candidates-accountable/

Jimmy and EJ sit down with Jen Sarduy who is running for city council in District 2. They also discuss the current data on voter turnout and what might be the outcome.

1.) Support Jen Sarduy's Campaign here
2.) Watch 12 Might Orphans Trailer
3.) Attend Leadership Fort Worth State of the Media Forum

Here is a bonus pod with Hayden Blackburn, the executive director of TechFW. We talk about the idea of Fort Worth becoming a tech hub and what are the challenges in making that a reality.

In this endorsement episode, Jimmy and EJ  share who they are voting for and why!?!? They break down the Fort Worth Chamber Mayoral Candidate Forum and who had the best showing. They also discuss Aledo and how the incident is a microcosm of the overall challenges in Fort Worth.

WATCH the forum: https://fb.watch/4YFmyAEr8k/

Check out the Fort Worth Report: https://fortworthreport.org/



 

Today Jimmy and EJ speak with mayoral candidate Deborah Peoples about her campaign and priorities for Fort Worth. Afterward, they debrief and explain the importance of this election long term. They start the pod by talking about the housing market and how intense it is for homebuyers. Finally, as they do every week, they end with wins and losses!

Jimmy is back!  We start the podcasts catching up and getting one another's take on when North Texas will hit herd immunity.  We then discuss surprise comments by Tarrant County Judge Glen Whitely and American Airlines about Senate Bill 7.  The big story is that mayoral finance reports were due, so we go through them to learn who supports who and why that matters.
 
Deborah Peoples
https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/files/assets/public/city-secretary/documents/elections/deborah-peoples-30-day-cfr.pdf

Ann Zadeh
https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/files/assets/public/city-secretary/documents/elections/ann-zadeh-30-day-cfr.pdf

Brian Byrd
https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/files/assets/public/city-secretary/documents/elections/brian-byrd-30-day-cfr.pdf

Mattie Parker
https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/files/assets/public/city-secretary/documents/elections/mattie-parker-30-day-cfr.pdf

This is a jampacked episode as we talk about the opening of vaccines for all Texas adults 16 and older and what it means for getting out of our houses. The big story is Senate Bill 7 and Republicans looking to suppress Texans' ability to vote. We also interview Dr. Jared Williams, City Council candidate for District 6. We then dive into wins and losses, including why Steve Penate is a good thing for the local mayoral race.

Data: How the latest spike in migrants at U.S.-Mexico border compares to past years https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2021/03/26/data-how-the-latest-spike-in-migrants-at-us-mexico-border-compares-to-past-years/

Schedule your vaccine:
https://tcph.quickbase.com/db/bq98sxk7f

In this episode, we interview two Fort Worth leaders to get their perspective on the upcoming local election on May 1st (early voting starts April 19th). We ask them what ideas, actions, and policies are they looking for when deciding on who they support. We also learn about how Fort Worth has evolved and what are some of the opportunities moving forward for our fast-growing city! This election is crucial to the future of Fort Worth and what the city becomes on a global scale.

Interview one is with Carly Burson, founder and CEO of LAUDE the Label.

Interview two is with Jennifer Trevino, Executive Director of Leadership Fort Worth.

This week the hosts for the 817 podcast sit down with mayoral candidate Mattie Parker CEO of Cradle to Career and the T3 Partnership to discuss her goals for the city. Tony and EJ share their perspective on the stimulus package and as well opinions on the Arts Council of Fort Worth 2021 Mayoral Candidate Forum.

Watch the Arts Council of Fort Worth 2021 Mayoral Candidate Forum:

Learn about Mattie Parker

First, this is a BIG comprehensive episode with a lot of updates for the month of  March as we prepare for the mayoral election! Early voting is April 19th.

Second, we have a guest co-host who will be our podcaster in resident for the month as Jimmy is on the open road.

Today we interview Tara Wilson who is running for city council in District 4 against incumbent Cary Moon. She is a medical professional and frontline worker who shares her experience about COVID and opinions on Governor Abbott's removal of the mask mandate in the state of Texas.

This week, EJ and Jimmy start by talking about the national PAC endorsements for a Mayoral candidate and a District 6 City Council candidate, then follow by talking about Mayor Betsy Price's final State of the City address from this past week. Her focus on education led them to take a look at the 5 races for Fort Worth ISD Board of Trustees seats in Districts 1, 4, 7, 8 and 9. They end by talking about the upcoming City Council vote around a plan for a new development in the Cultural District, followed by wins and losses for the week.

This week, EJ and Jimmy briefly discuss the week of winter storms, the fallout from what happened, and what they hope to see change going forward in response to the disaster. Then, they take a look at EVERY City Council race for the May elections, looking at the available websites for candidates! If you'd like to skip ahead to your district:

District 2: 30:00
District 3: 36:45 
District 4: 42:20
District 5: 45:00
District 6: 48:35
District 7: 50:25
District 8: 54:48
District 9: 57:30

The CEO of Near Southside Inc. Mike Brennan sits down with EJ and Jimmy to talk about the future of development in Fort Worth, especially around one of the most walkable areas of the city. 

This week, EJ and Jimmy talk about the speech given by Opal Lee at the Visit Fort Worth Annual Meeting and its implications, as well as break down their conversation with Mayoral candidate Ann Zadeh from last week. 

This week, EJ and Jimmy had the pleasure of talking with Ann Zadeh, City Councilor for District 9 and Mayoral Candidate for Fort Worth! Ann has lived in Fort Worth for 30 years, moving from serving in Neighborhood Associations to serving on City Council in 2014. She's been part of the Zoning Commission for 6 years, serving as the head of the Commission for the past year. For more information on Ann, to donate to or volunteer for her campaign, or to reach out and ask her questions, visit https://annzadeh.com.

This week, EJ and Jimmy talk about happenings in neighborhoods across the city, including a bond proposal for Heritage Plaza and Hemphill No Se Vende making front page of the Star-Telegram. They also talk about the issues with Tarrant County's new plan to prioritize white-heavy zip codes in vaccinations, and who may be the frontrunner in the mayoral race after a week of endorsements from many of Fort Worth's gatekeepers.

This week, EJ and Jimmy discuss the recent panel for the 6 Police Chief candidate finalists, as well as talk about the 4 main candidates for Mayor.

This week, EJ and Jimmy take time to talk amount the heavy national events of the last week, and where they intersect with the local politicians involved. 

EJ and Jimmy kick off the new year breaking down articles about the clean up of the Trinity River for the Panther Island Project; the City Council debate on whether we should continue approving zoning changes for luxury apartments; and, will Betsy Price run for mayor again? They finish with wins, losses, and a bold prediction for Fort Worth in 2021!

See if you qualify for the vaccine ---> https://tcph.quickbase.com/db/bq3q4uet8

This week, EJ and Jimmy wrap up the highlights and lowlights of 2020 in Fort Worth and Tarrant County, as well as break down some smaller news stories around a DART/TRE connection to Plano, and the continued impact of the National Finals Rodeo in Fort Worth.

In a slightly slower local news week, EJ and Jimmy start by talking about national news around a stimulus bill and the outgoing President’s martial law attempt. They follow with state level news of Ken Paxton’s coming indictment and the court ordered release of expenditures on Gov. Abbott’s inauguration. Last, they cover how to engage and meet with the Police Chief finalists, and local wins and losses for the week. 

This week, EJ and Jimmy catch up on the recent happenings around Fort Worth and Texas, including the city's effort to purchase the Pier 1 Building and convert it in to City Hall. They also hit on the 6 finalists for the Police Chief position and the continued issues with inmate deaths at Tarrant County prisons. The main story focuses around the impact we can have on our neighborhoods, especially in the coming year, through the lens of $3 million being invested in to Como, the recent fight by Hemphill corridor residents to postpone rezoning of the area until deeper gentrification effects are studied, and the upcoming redrawing of districts pending the results of the 2020 Census.

Today, we chat with Robert Sturns, the Economic Development Director for the City of Fort Worth. He shares updates on the CARES Act and the city's broad approach to helping businesses during these challenging economic times, which looks to continue into the new year.

We also discuss the future of Fort Worth post-pandemic and the potential new home for city hall. Robert's role in the city is to recruit, retain, and expand the business community, so we go down an elaborate but engaging rabbit trail of ideas to strengthen Fort Worth's brand as a top destination for entrepreneurs, startups, and 21st-century companies that are changing the world. 

In a slow news week, EJ and Jimmy take time to talk about the state of COVID in Tarrant County, especially in light of Thanksgiving this week. They also discuss the announcement of the Panther City Lacrosse Club, the potential for a pro level soccer complex in Keller, and the effect of lower tier pro sports on local economies when executed well. 

Does Fort Worth have a tech scene? Where are all the startups?

Do you have an idea and want to learn how to tap into the entrepreneurship ecosystem here in Fort Worth?

In this episode, we sit down with Cameron Cushman, Director of Innovation Systems at the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth. His job is to curate, connect, and grow the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Fort Worth. Today starts Global Entrepreneurship Week, which is the world’s largest celebration of entrepreneurs & innovators, and Cameron's team is bringing that celebration to Fort Worth, TX from November 16th to the 20th.

Sign up for some amazing sessions at www.GEWFortWorth.com to really get some insights into Fort Worth's startup scene.

If you’re interested in Fort Worth entrepreneurial data that we discuss on this show, check out this post to learn more.

Lastly, Cameron is the host of Innovate Fort Worth, UNTHSC’s podcast that highlights the people on the leading edge of Fort Worth’s startup community. Check out the podcast on all platforms. Enjoy!

EJ and Jimmy break down the Nov. 3 election, starting with local results in Fort Worth and Tarrant County, followed by Texas, and finally nationally, and talk about the implications of these results for our community going forward.

This week, EJ and Jimmy sit down with local social media influence Laura Lape to talk about the role of influencers in Fort Worth, especially focusing on the Nov. 3 Election and how to foster civil discourse in a divisive time.

This week, the format changes up a little bit as EJ and Jimmy hit on a number of small stories that came across Fort Worth. They start off with expected increases in holiday travel and the airlines, especially American and Southwest with hubs in DFW (1:50) and its effect on a struggling industry, and what the Halloween holiday may look like in Tarrant County (15:10). With the election looming, they take some time to talk about voter turnout in Tarrant County and Texas so far, as well as the late announcement that Kamala Harris will be visiting Texas this week (18:50). They also hit on a new set of mural projects along the Trinity River (12:37), and finish talking about the DWI arrest of Councilperson Cary Moon (35:30).

This week, EJ and Jimmy talk about early voter turnout in Tarrant County and Texas (0:15), Governor Abbott allowing counties the choice to reopen bars (7:30), and our first look at new developments coming to the Stop Six area (12:20)! The big story of the week is that the annual Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo has officially been cancelled for 2021 and the impact that the loss of event could have in Fort Worth (20:30). Last, we hit our wins and losses for the week (30:34).

This week, EJ and Jimmy sit down with Brian Kendall and Samantha Calimbahin of Fort Worth Magazine to talk about their recent feature, 20 Ways to Make Fort Worth (Even) Better!

In part 1 of this week’s episode, EJ and Jimmy sit down with Dr. Brian Dixon to talk about Fort Worth’s mention in this week’s Presidential debate (13:54), as well as other major Fort Worth happenings as we approach the election. Small stories this week surround the Texas Attorney General being accused of bribery (3:49) and the situation around the President’s health (8:15). Finally, they end with wins and losses for the week (35:20).

In part 2 of this week's episode, we sit down with Dr. Max Krochmal, professor at TCU and author of Blue Texas: The Making of A Multiracial Democratic Coalition in the Civil Rights Era, to talk about Tarrant County’s decision to get back to school, as well as the current state of TCU’s response to the public health crisis, and what the upcoming election will look like for Fort Worth and Tarrant County.

Today, EJ and Jimmy discuss the job output of Fort Worth’s $30 million incentive program for companies to relocate headquarters (1:00), follow up on last week’s discussion about the new vote around virtual learning for FWISD (7:30), and deep dive in to Fort Worth Star-Telegram’s comprehensive story on the 76104 zip code having the lowest life expectancy of any zip in the state (19:16). The two finish with their wins and losses for the week (32:45), and a tease of an upcoming back to back podcast with Innovate Fort Worth!

On this week’s episode, EJ and Jimmy start with talking about the potential mishandling of DNA evidence by a Tarrant County crime lab over the last two years (1:43). They also touch on the first findings from the recent survey done by the Citizens Oversight Committee around police oversight (4:33) and bars once again being left out of reopening plans by Governor Greg Abbott (11:09). The big story for this week is around the decision by the FWISD School Board to keep their plan for reopening schools October 5 after a seven hour discussion last Tuesday, along with their plan to reconvene this week to reevaluate that decision (17:21). Finally, they end with their wins and losses for the week, including mourning the passing of RBG, and what that means for this election moving forward (32:54).

This week, EJ and Jimmy give an update on last week’s County Commissioner’s vote about government raises (0:50) and talk about two big economic developments for Fort Worth (1:31, 10:23). But, the big story for this week is around the 5 Texas House seats up for grabs this election in Tarrant County, and Governor Abbott’s push in the suburbs to protect “Law and Order” and defend those seats (16:29), given their importance to the shaping of Texas politics over the next decade. The two finish with highlighting their wins and losses for Fort Worth for the week (27:13), including the proposal for Fort Worth to become the new headquarters of Space Force.

In today’s episode, EJ and Jimmy dive in to this week in Fort Worth’s news, including talking about the Labor Day Weekend and school’s starting virtual learning September 8 (13:00). They also talk about this week’s City Council meeting, where the Council will vote on whether or not to move forward with raises for all government employees (6:01). Other topics involved are the postponing of TCU-SMU this week (23:55), Fort Worth starting its’ search for a new Police Chief (18:30), and the new “Don’t Mess With Texas” campaign to fight against PPE littering across the state (3:30). Finally, EJ and Jimmy highlight their wins and losses for Fort Worth this week (29:50).

Guest Mia Moss, owner of Black Coffee, joins EJ and Jimmy to talk about progress in Fort Worth, specifically focused on East Fort Worth, and bridging the gap in resources between minority areas and the rest of the city. They talk about the role that coffee shops and small businesses can play in bringing people together to start those conversations, as well as serve as hubs for local outreach.

EJ and Jimmy welcome special guest Jonathan Morris, local entrepreneur behind the Fort Worth Barber Shop and the upcoming boutique hotel, Hotel Dryce. Together, they talk about where Fort Worth sits in the national landscape of major cities, and discuss what the city needs to do to continue to expand its market presence nationwide. The three also talk about the opportunity for entrepreneurs in Fort Worth, and how people with visions are supported in bringing major city experiences to the area. 

EJ and Jimmy sit down with Dr. Brian Dixon, MD to talk about the effects of COVID and isolation on a local scale, as well as touch on the city and county’s handling of the pandemic. They also talk about the local Black Lives Matter movement, and how the city can better listen and engage with Black leaders in the community. 

Welcome to the 817 Podcast! In our premier episode, tech CEO EJ Carrion and local business owner Jimmy Sweeney spend time talking about how they landed in Fort Worth, and what sparks their passion to see the city develop. Listen as they introduce the purpose and format of the podcast, as well as break down a couple local news stories from the past month.