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🐆 A new installation rests downtown
This new panther installation was made by an outdoor topiary company and is made of turf. Translation: it’s meant to be enjoyed. | Photo by FTWtoday
You may be familiar with the “Sleeping Panther” statue downtown, which snoozes at Main Street and Weatherford. Well, now there’s a new panther sculpture in the neighborhood.
You’ll find the shrubby feline lounging in Burnett Park, adding a fresh (and fuzzy) chapter to Panther City’s favorite origin story.
Placed with purpose
Burnett Park’s new installation plays off the Fort Worth “Panther City” legend — which dates back to the 1870s — when a Dallas newspaper joked that Fort Worth was so quiet a panther could sleep in the street.
Instead of bristling, Fort Worth embraced the jab, turning the panther into a symbol of resilience, independence, and just the right amount of swagger — a spirit which still defines the city today.
This panther needs a name
Be a part of its story. Residents can submit name ideas online. Got something clever? This is your moment. The form closes on Wednesday, April 1.
Members enjoy unlimited admission, free parking that saves $5 every visit, and $3 off one-day admission for guests, making it easy to bring friends along.
Beyond admission, members receive discounts on ticketed experiences like giraffe feedings, behind-the-scenes programs, Summer Zoo Camp, and Zoo School, plus special pricing on birthday parties and exclusive invite-only events.
Fort Worth’s De Zavala Elementary is set to close at the end of this semester — a year sooner than expected. De Zavala is one of the 18 schools affected by the ISD’s mass closures. Students will either transfer to Lily B. Clayton Elementary or E.M. Daggett Elementary by fall. (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
Festival
Whiskey enthusiasts, raise a glass. FTW’s largest whiskey festival will return Saturday, May 30 at The Social Space. Grab tickets now to try 150+ types of whiskey and bourbon, ranging from local to international brands. Sorry kids, but this event is 21+. (Fort Worth Business Press)
Number
$1 million. That’s how much the jersey worn by Cooper Flagg during his NBA debut just sold for, making it the most expensive NBA jersey ever auctioned. The previous record was Victor Wembanyama’s jersey — which sold for $762,000 in 2023. (Audacy)
Travel
Traveling soon? Be sure to use DFW Airport’s app to check the status of TSA PreCheck before heading to the airport. On Sunday, the agency said its PreCheck services would continue running smoothly — but it never hurts to check. (The Dallas Morning News)
Seasonal
There are 12 days until the clocks go forward for daylight saving time. That means a few things: Spring is on its way, the sun is setting later, and summer will be here before we know it. A picnic awaits — plan out which local park you’d like to frequent for the occasion.
Feel Good
A local musician is pausing her career. Why? She’s donating a kidney to save her mom’s life. WFAA’s Paul Livengood shares the story behind their unbreakable mother-daughter bond.
Real Estate
These deluxe downtown apartments are full of head-turning touches — including beautiful kitchen backsplashes, walk-in showers, and wide balconies with skyline views. Take a peek.*
Featured Deal
Spend $50 on woman-owned cannabis brand TribeTokes and get a free pack of THC Libido Lift Gummies with purchase. Think: Stock up on top-reviewed CBD sleep gummies or enjoy a clean buzz from pineapple Delta 9 gummies. Use code VDAYGUMMY before the deal ends.†*
The Buy
Products we think every pet lover should have:
👕 Whether you’re the proud pet parent of a dog, cat, lizard, or hamster, show them off on a custom t-shirt.
🧹 Easily remove pet hair from carpets + upholstery thanks to the No. 1 best-selling Chom Chom hair and lint remover.
📷 Keep an eye on your four-legged friend with an indoor pet camera that’s under $30.
🧼 Make bath time a breeze with these pet bathing gloves that have soft bristles for easy grooming.
Last week, we launched our new small business signature, featuring reader-recommended local businesses. I love seeing all of the submissions pouring in — we’ve already received 50+. The form to submit your favorite (or your own) small FTW business will remain open all year. I’ll be featuring several new ones each month.