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METROPOLIS

May 3 Election Guide

Let us help you navigate the ostensibly nonpartisan races on this weekend’s ballot.

BY EMMY SMITH

Protests, like the one that took place April 19 downtown which garnered national attention (“Protest Draws Hundreds,” April 23), are well and good, but the biggest way to fight rising authoritarianism is to participate in free and fair elections (while we still have them). If you planned to sit this one out, you’ve forgotten that in your daily lives, you will feel the effects of what your local and state officials do more than you will feel what the federal government does, especially now that President Musk and his orange puppet have begun systematically dismantling every federal government

program that might have protected you from out-of-control local officials.

The local election on Saturday, May 3, for which early voting has already ended, is made up of races for ostensibly nonpartisan seats, but we all know that is meaningless in current times. You need only look at candidates’ own words online to know which way they lean. To maintain this paper’s hard-earned reputation as a liberal rag not worth lining your bird’s cage, the following rundown will attempt to steer you in the direction of candidates who aren’t actively supporting the fascist takeover of our city, state, and country as a whole. Go for the boldface type.

Mayor

For the mayoral race, Mayor Mattie Parker is facing seven challengers in her bid for reelection for a third term, for which she is almost certainly destined.

The mayoral candidates, in the order they appear on the ballot, are: Mattie Parker (incumbent), Josh Lucas, Alyson Kennedy, Lawrence E. Walker II, Millenium Anton C. Woods Jr., Chris Wood, Jeremy F. Labelle, and Donnell Ballard. You can find their answers to policy questions on Vote411.org.

Parker has made improving Fort Worth ISD schools the cornerstone of her most recent term, which has helped boost her popularity among many voters, but in going after the scapegoat superintendent (“Reset,” Oct 9, 2024) while offering no opinion on the recently passed “school voucher” legislation that will further cripple public school funding, she showed that she prefers catering to the special interests of deep-pocketed donors to caring about students’ education.

Running on a shoestring budget and facing a Sisyphean effort to unseat Parker, challenger Josh Lucas has been visible at recent protests and other demonstrations against the Trump Administration. Lucas said on his campaign website that he is running for mayor because “as right-wing extremism rises at the local and national level and new laws target the most vulnerable, I’m ready to lead with compassion and protect what makes Fort Worth strong — our people. It’s time to build a city where ‘y’all’ truly means ‘all.’ ”

City Council

Every single Fort Worth city council seat is up for grabs, which means this election applies to every single voter. No matter what happens, the council is guaranteed to welcome at least two new councilmembers because incumbent councilmembers Gyna Bivens of District 5 and Jared Williams of District 6 aren’t seeking reelection. Of the other nine sitting councilmembers, all but District 10’s Alan Blaylock and District 7’s Macy Hill

are facing at least one opponent. There are 35 candidates running in total. Find which district you live in at FortWorthTexas.gov/ government/districts, then do your research with tools like Vote411.org, where you can create a sample ballot, review candidate responses to policy questions, and make selections, which you can then print and take with you to the ballot box. (Electronics are not allowed.) For what it’s worth, the local Sierra Club recently endorsed the following candidates: Jason Ballman (challenger, District 3), Deborah Peoples (challenger, District 5), Daryl Davis (open seat, District 6), Chris Nettles (incumbent, District 8), and Elizabeth Beck (incumbent, District 9).

Tarrant Regional Water District Board of Directors

Although you can select three out of four candidates for this special election, supporters of the environment and water conservation recommend voting for only Andrew Brinker, which will increase his chances of earning a seat. The other three candidates — Skylar O’Neal, Johnathan Killebrew, and Leah King — have joined forces and are advertising together as Coalition for the Fort, and campaign finance reports available continued on page 5

Popular City Councilwoman Elizabeth Beck is running for reelection in District 9, which includes parts of Fairmount, the TCU area, and Wedgwood.

Courtesy Elizabeth Beck/Instagram

Hoping to unseat Mattie Parker, Mayoral candidate Josh Lucas is “ready to lead with compassion and protect what makes Fort Worth strong — our people.”

on TRWD’s website show that one of their largest contributors is the Fort Worth Police Officer’s Association. If the FWPOA’s goals and opinions don’t align with yours, you probably shouldn’t vote for candidates they support.

Brinker, though, has been running a grassroots campaign focusing on using his Master of Science in biology from TCU to bring a scientific perspective to the board while prioritizing transparency and open communication between TWRD and the community.

Brinker has already worked with TRWD since 2017 on research and educational projects, engaging students in handson fieldwork along the Trinity River. In one of his Vote411.org Q&A responses, he said, “My daily presence at the river allows me to monitor its conditions, collect data, and connect with the community. I am committed to using science-driven, sustainable solutions to guide TRWD’s decisions.” Find out more at TRWD.com/boardelection.

Fort Worth School Board

School board elections have never felt more consequential. Thankfully, Fort Worth does not use the at-large voting system employed by other North Texas school districts like Keller’s, which allows right-wing extremist groups to apply their influence to help elect board members who then move to

ban curricula and educational materials that teach children about diversity and history. Here in Fort Worth, each seat is a single-member district, meaning members represent a specific geographic area that votes for them.

Five seats on the nine-member Fort Worth school board are slated for the ballot, and all of the incumbents are running for reelection. The board finally seems to have some

District 1: Camille Rodriguez, first elected in 2022 to represent parts of North Fort Worth, is running for reelection against former Fort Worth ISD teacher of the year Amanda Inay. Notably, Rodriguez was the only trustee to vote against accepting Ramsey’s resignation, citing the need for consistency and stability in the district. She’s running on a similar platform now, while Inay is focused on literacy and teacher support.

District 4: Wallace Bridges is the current trustee representing southeast Fort Worth. Running against him is 27-year-old charter-school teacher Enoc Baeza.

District 7: Representing much of southwest Fort Worth and parts of Benbrook, retired educator Michael Ryan, the incumbent, currently serves as one of the board’s vice presidents. Running against him is longtime teacher Terry Roach.

positive momentum following the ousting of former superintendent Dr. Angélica Ramsey, with all board members showing support for new superintendent Karen Molinar. As Fort Worth ISD gears up for intense community discussions on proposed school closures and perpetual funding shortfalls, it might be best to maintain continuity. Below is a quick rundown of the seats for which incumbents are facing an opponent.

District 9: Incumbent Roxanne Martinez currently serves as the school board president and represents an area stretching from North Side through downtown to parts of the Near Southside. Her opponent, Robyne Kelly, is a substitute teacher and former flight attendant. l

This column reflects the opinions of the editorial board and not the Fort Worth Weekly. To submit a column, please email Editor Anthony Mariani at Anthony@FWWeekly. com. He will gently edit it for clarity and concision.

TRWD board candidate Andrew Brinker: “I am committed to using science-driven, sustainable solutions to guide TRWD’s decisions.”

WEEKLY LISTINGS

The List

Top resources for everything. Okay, almost everything.

By Fort Worth Weekly Classifieds

Below are some resources for your consideration, including astrology, faith-based listings, services, and more. Welcome to Fort Worth Weekly Classifieds.

FREE WILL ASTROLOGY

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19)

To create microgardens, you plant vegetables and herbs in small containers placed on your porch, balcony, window sills, and kitchen counter. Lettuce, peas, spinach, and basil might be among your small bounties. I encourage you to use this practice as a main metaphor in the coming weeks. In other words, gravitate away from huge, expansive visions, and instead work creatively within existing constraints. For now, at least, “less is more” should be your operative motto. Meditate on how apparent limitations might lead to inviting innovations. Seek out abundance in unlikely places.

TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20)

Taurus author Nellie Bly (1864–1922) was a daring trailblazer. It was almost impossible for a woman to be a journalist in the 19th century, but she did it anyway. One of her sensational groundbreaking stories came when she did an undercover assignment in New York’s Women’s Lunatic Asylum. Her reporting on the neglect and brutality there prompted major reforms. I nominate Bly as your role model for the foreseeable future. You are, I believe, poised for epic, even heroic adventures, in service to a greater good. (PS: Bly also made a solo trip around the world and wrote 15 books.)

GEMINI (May 21-Jun 20)

Gemini painter Henri Rousseau (1844–1910) never saw a jungle in person. In fact, he never left his native country of France. But he painted some of modern art’s most vivid jungle scenes. How did that happen? Well, he visited zoos and botanical gardens, perused images of tropical forests in books, and heard stories from soldiers who had visited jungles abroad. But mostly, he had a flourishing imagination that he treated with reverent respect. I urge you to follow his lead, Gemini. Through the joyful, extravagant power of your imagination, get the inspiration and education you need. The next three weeks will be prime time to do so.

CANCERIAN (Jun 21-Jul 22)

No, ruby-throated hummingbirds don’t hitch rides on airplanes or the backs of geese. They make their epic migrations completely under their own power. To get to their wintering grounds, many fly alone from the southern United States to the Yucatan Peninsula, crossing the 500-mile expanse of the Gulf of Mexico in 20 hours. I don’t recommend you attempt heroic feats like theirs in the coming weeks, Cancerian. More than usual, you need and deserve to call on support and help. Don’t be shy about getting the exact boosts you require. It’s time to harvest the favors you are owed and to be specific in articulating your wishes.

LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22)

The golden pheasant is dazzling. Among the bright colors that appear in its plumage are gold, red, orange, yellow, blue, black, green, cinnamon, and chestnut. In accordance with astrological omens, I name this charismatic bird to be your spirit creature for the coming weeks. Feel free to embrace your inner golden pheasant and express it vividly wherever you go. This is a perfect time to boldly showcase your beauty and magnificence, even as you fully display your talents and assets. I brazenly predict that your enthusiastic expression of selflove will be a good influence on almost everyone you encounter.

VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22)

Virgo poet and visual artist Dorothea Tanning (1910–2012) had a few mottoes that endlessly nurtured her abundant creative output. Here’s one: “Keep your eye on your inner world and keep away from ads, idiots, and movie stars.” As excellent as that advice is, it’s a challenge to follow it all the time. If we want to function effectively, we can’t always be focused on our inner worlds. However, I do believe you are now in a phase when you’re wise to heed her counsel more than usual. Your soul’s depths have a lot to teach you. Your deep intuition is full of useful revelations. Don’t get distracted from them by listening too much to ads, idiots, and celebrities.

listings continued on page 23

SAT 5/31 ROB SCHNEIDER YOU CAN DO IT, TEXAS! TOUR SUN 6/15 “JALIL” – A MODERN HIP-HOP TAKE ON THE STORY OF JOB!

SAT 6/21 ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW

RIDGLEA ROOM

SAT 5/10 ADAM HAWLEY

TUES 5/13 THRASHVILLE TERROR TOUR

SAT 5/24 SLURP THE WORLD

RIDGLEA LOUNGE RIDGLEA THEATER

FRI 5/2 JUNK CAR GIRLS HEETER, GOITER BELT & MORE!

FRI 5/23 OX COMBINE HONEYMOON DOLPHIN SKYDRUM, OPEN HELL & MORE!

CLASSIFIEDS

Weekly Listings

continued from page 20

LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 22)

Ribonucleic acid (RNA) is essential for the functioning of your body and every other animal’s. It carries instructions about how to build proteins, and your cells are full of it. We humans can’t edit this magic substance, but octopuses can. They do it on the fly, enabling them to adapt quickly to changing environmental conditions. Even though you Libras can’t match their amazing power with RNA, you do have a substantial capacity to rewrite your plans and adjust your mindset. And this talent of yours will be especially available to you in the coming weeks. Your flexibility and adaptability will not only help you navigate surprises but may also open up exciting new opportunities.

SCORPIO (Oct 23-Nov 21)

Is there a sanctuary you can retreat to? A relaxing oasis where you can slip away from the world’s colorful madness? I would love for you to be bold enough to seek the precise healing you need. You have every right to escape the rotting status quo and give yourself full permission to hide from pressure, demands, and expectations. Is there music that brings you deep consolation? Are there books and teachers that activate your profound soul wisdom? Keep that good stuff nearby. It’s time for focused relief and regeneration.

SAGITTARIUS

(Nov 22-Dec 21)

The chemical element known as arsenic is notoriously toxic for humans, but has long been useful in small amounts. Ancient Chinese metallurgists discovered that blending it with copper and tin made the finest, strongest bronze. In modern times, arsenic fortifies the lead in car batteries. People in the 19th century sometimes ingested tiny doses as a stimulant. In this spirit, Sagittarius, I invite you to transform potentially challenging elements in your life into sources of strength. Can you find ways to incorporate iffy factors instead of eliminating them? I assure you that you have the power to recognize value in things others may neglect or reject.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19)

Renowned Capricorn author Henry Miller (1891–1980) had to wait far too long before getting readers in his home country, the United States. American censors regarded his explosive texts as too racy and sexy. They forbade the publication of his books until he was 69 years old! His spirit was forever resolute and uncrushable, though. In accordance with astrological omens, Capricorn, I recommend you adopt his counsel on the subject of wonders and marvels. Miller wrote, “The miracle is that the honey is always there, right under your nose, only you were too busy searching elsewhere to realize it.” Here’s another gem from Miller: He advised us “to make the miracle more and more miraculous, to swear allegiance to nothing, but live only miraculously, think only miraculously, die miraculously.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 20- Feb 18)

For now, everything depends on your foundation, your roots, and your support system. If I were you, I would devote myself to nurturing them. Please note that you’re not in any jeopardy. I don’t foresee strains or tremors. But your graduation to your next set of interesting challenges will require you to be snugly stable, secure, and steady. This is one time when being thoroughly ensconced in your comfort zone is a beautiful asset, not a detriment to be transcended.

PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20)

HAVE A LITTLE FAITH

CELEBRATION

Located at 908 Pennsylvania Av (817-335-3222), Celebration Community Church has services on Sundays at 10am. Want to check out a nonjudgmental, inclusive church at home before attending in person? All services can also be viewed on YouTube (@CelebrationCommunityChurch130).

POTTER’S HOUSE

Join the Potter’s House of Fort Worth (1270 Woodhaven Blvd, 817-446-1999) for Sunday Service at 8am and Wednesday Bible Study at 7pm. For more info, visit us online at www.TPHFW.org.

HELP WANTED

EMPLOYMENT

Gas Station & Convenience Store Supervisor needed in Bedford, TX to oversee daily operations of gas station & convenience store, ensure high standards of customer service, compliance w/ safety regulations, & efficient mgmt of staff, resources, inventory, & finances. HS dipl. /GED & least 2 yrs of exp reqd in the job offered or related gas station/convenience store supervisory or mgmt occupation. Mail resume to: Quick Track, Attn: HR 18718, 1501 Pipeline Rd. E, Ste. B, Bedford, TX 76022.

EMPLOYMENT

Teague Nall and Perkins, Inc., seeks a Project Engineer in Fort Worth, TX. Must have BS in CE. Licensed to practice Pro. Engr. in TX. Need 2 yrs work exp, including 2yrs exp. in construction project mgmt. and using designing software. Proficiency with MicroStation, OpenRoads, and MS Office apps. Must earn a civil engineer degree from an ABET accredited inst. Little travel per year. Mail resume to 5237 N. Riverside Dr., Suite 100, Fort Worth, Texas, 76137.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

DENTAL INSURANCE

Physicians Mutual Insurance Co has coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-888-361-7095 www.dental50plus.com/fortworth #6258.

LIFE INSURANCE

Up to $15,000.00 of GUARANTEED Life Insurance! No medical exam or health questions. Cash to help pay funeral and other final expenses.Call Physicians Life Insurance Company- 844-782-2870 or visit www. Life55plus.info/ftworth.

PLANNED PARENTHOOD

We’re not going anywhere. PPGreaterTX.org

NOTICES

SUBMISSIONS

Do you have thoughts and feelings, or questions, comments, or concerns about something you read in the Weekly? Please email Question@fwweekly.com. Do you have an upcoming event or something you need to get the word out about? For potential coverage in our listing sections, email the details to Marketing@ fwweekly.com.

TDLR Complaints

Any Texans who may be concerned that an unlicensed massage business may be in operation near them, or believe nail salon employees may be human trafficking victims, may now report those concerns directly to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) by emailing ReportHT@TDLR.Texas.gov.

EMPLOYMENT

Production Manager

Summit Casing Equipment proudly manufactures our own lines of solid body centralizers, bow spring centralizers, composite centralizers, float equipment, and stage tools. This capability allows us to supply a wide range of parts to meet your operational needs. We're in the casing equipment business - it's our only focus. SUMMARY: The Production Manager will have direct oversight and accountability for building operations. Will be directly responsible for building production activities, maintaining positive employee relations and achieving performance related metrics - safety, quality, production, delivery, and machine uptime. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Manage production activities and resources per established policies. Communicate expectations and hold self and employees accountable for performance. Manage machine resources for productivity and minimal downtime. Maintain equipment maintenance records. Reduce expenses and increase productivity across all product lines. Ensure compliance with industry standards, health, and safety guidelines, and OSHA and EPA codes. Supervise production workflow, enhance efficiency, and adjust processes as needed for improvement. Plan equipment use to ensure on-time delivery of WIP and finished goods. Ensure effective communication between company departments and with suppliers. Achieve high employee efficiency and morale through leadership and sound management principles. Cross-train personnel in multiple functions. Maintain knowledge of current and new manufacturing processes. Implement production goals and discuss results with senior management. Manage inventory of products and raw materials and conduct weekly inventory counts. Interview, train, and coach employees on best practices. Implement corrective actions for employee performance and conduct. Schedule employee vacations, overtime, holidays, and job assignments. Requirements: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field; 2 years of progressive post baccalaureate experience in manufacturing engineering position, to include: 2 years working with lean manufacturing tools 5s, TPS, Six Sigma or Kaizen. Location: Summit Casing Equipment, 6575 Corporation Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76126 To apply, please email resume to: HR@summitcasing.com.

BULLETIN BOARD

ADVERTISE HERE! Email Stacey@fwweekly.com.

American Residential

Heating & Cooling

As temps outside start to climb, the season for savings is now. $49 cooling or heating system tune up. Save up to $2000 on a new heating and cooling system (restrictions apply.) FREE estimates. Many payment options available. Licensed and insured professionals. Call today 1-877-447-0546

Are You Road-Trip Ready? CALL COWTOWN ROVER!

With our handy pick-up and drop-off services, having your car checked out could not be easier. www.CowtownRover.com 3958 Vickery | 817.731.3223

ERIE METAL ROOFS

Replace your roof with the best-looking and longestlasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer: up to 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-888-778-0566 (MB)

FLEA

MARKET

CATTLE BARN ANTIQUES

4445 River Oaks Blvd

Every Saturday & Sunday 9a-5p

Your favorite dealers: Check out Nina with her outstanding creations. Billy and Earl, too!

FREE SPAY / NEUTER

Need a FREE Spay/Neuter? Texas Coalition for Animal Protection has clinics near you. Schedule an appointment today at TexasForThem.org or by calling 1-833-636-1757.

GET PUBLISHED!

Dorrance Publishing, trusted by authors since 1920, is accepting submissions. Book manuscripts are currently being reviewed. Comprehensive services include consultation, production, promotion and distribution. Call 1-866-256-0940 or go online for your free author`s guide and become a published author. (MB) DorranceInfo.com/ftworth

HERITAGE for the BLIND

Get a break on your taxes! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind at 1-855-503-1501 today! (MB)

HIGHER PURPOSE

Everyone has a higher purpose. Find yours at Higher Purpose Emporium (505 W Northside Dr, FWTX, 682-207-5351).

HigherPurposeEmporium.com,

NEED A FRIEND?

Ronnie D. Long Bail Bonds

Immediate Jail Release 24 Hour Service. City, County, State and Federal Bonds. Located Minutes from Courts. 6004 Airport Freeway. 817-834-9894

RonnieDLongBailBonds.com

NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING!

LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection, will help you eliminate gutter cleaning forever. Schedule a FREE estimate today. Receive 20% off entire purchase, plus a 10% senior and military discount. (MB) Call 1-877-689-1687

Prepared for OUTAGES?

Prepare today for POWER OUTAGES with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. (MB) 1-817-752-9457

SWAB DRIVE 4 GEORGE!

George, an 8-year-old from FW, has been diagnosed with a rare cancer, and his community is rallying together to help. University Baptist Church (2720 Wabash Av, FWTX) is hosting a Swab Drive in his honor on 10am-4pm Sat, May 3 in the hopes of finding a donor match for bone marrow while he currently undergoes treatment at Cook Children’s Hospital. The results of your cheek swab, which takes approximately 6 minutes to complete, will be entered into the international registry to identify you as a potential donor for George or another person battling a life-threatening illness. Enjoy live music, a taco truck, and giveaways at this free, family-friendly event. Healthy people between the ages of 18 and 55 are encouraged to participate.

WHAT’S YOUR STORY?

We work with guest contributors to publish SEO articles and press releases. For more info, email Marketing@fwweekly.com.

SAFE STEP: North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-855-868-0192 (MB)

STUCK WITH A TIMESHARE?

Wesley Financial Group, the Timeshare Cancellation Experts has over 450 positive reviews and over done over $50 million in successful timeshare debt/fees cancellations. Get free consultation, free info package, and learn how to get rid of your timeshare today. (MB) Call 844-511-2581