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🪻 Along the road again
Single Indian paintbrushes often spring up within fields of bluebonnets. | Photo by @tracyg13
One look outside on a short drive around Fort Worth is proof enough that spring has sprung, and bluebonnets are in full bloom.
There’s nothing that fills us more with Lone Star State pride quite like looking out at fields and highways lined with our gorgeous state flower, but at one point, you may have wondered what makes this flower special?
Where did the name come from?
On March 7, 1901, the Texas Legislature adopted the bluebonnet as the state flower. The flower is found in at least five different Lupinus species variations, however, only one bears the official name Lupinus texensis (amended on March 8, 1971). The flower’s common name was derived from its resemblance to a sunbonnet, which pioneer women wore to protect themselves from the sun.
The role of women in choosing the flower
Texas lawmakers (all men at that time) originally wanted the cactus (for hardiness and orchid-like beauty) or cotton to represent the state.
A. Someone who has legally changed their name to a fictional character B. Someone who is prescribed to watch at least 10 hours of TV a day C. Someonewho can speak fluent Japanese after just watching subtitles D. Someone who is interested in anime and Japanese culture
In its first official meeting since the state takeover, the new Fort Worth ISD Board of Managers assigned officer roles and suspended several old policies. It also heard over an hour of public comment. See what was discussed. (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
Shop
After a pop-up in the Stockyards earlier this year, Kendra Scott’s Yellow Rose will now permanently set up shop by October. Yellow Rose by Kendra Scott is the brand’s Western-inspired lifestyle line featuring men’s and women’s apparel, accessories, boots + more. Browse new arrivals. (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
Outdoors
A new historical marker was unveiled yesterday at FTW’s Veterans Memorial Park, honoring Choctaw Code Talkers. This group of 19 Native American soldiers used Choctaw language to encrypt military code. Why here? The code talkers belonged to the 36th Infantry Division — organized at Camp Bowie. (Fort Worth Report)
Environment
This month is Earth Month, and the city of Fort Worth shared seven ways that everyone can take action for our planet. For more helpful initiatives, follow the Keep Fort Worth Beautiful page. Reminder: Earth Day is Wednesday, April 22.
History
For months of uncertainty, Panther Island’s 113-year-old TXU Power Plant is gaining historic protection. This week, the Fort Worth City Council voted to bestow the protection, rescuing it from possible demolition. The site is currently off the market, and its future remains unclear. (Fort Worth Report)
Sports
General Manager Jim Nill has resigned a two-year extension with the Dallas Stars. Nill is the longest-serving general manager with the Stars and has helped the team reach the Western Conference finals for the last three seasons and the Stanley Cup Final in 2020. (The Dallas Morning News)
Real Estate
Apartment hunting this spring? You’re right on time.Say hello to The Harden, where modern living meets historic roots in the heart of Fort Worth. Open layouts, spacious kitchens, stainless steel appliances, and walk-in closets await. Ready to make your move? Schedule a tour.*
Cause
Last month, the Fort Worth Police Department collaborated with Meals on Wheels to go door-to-door and pass out meals to residents in need. Follow WFAA’s Scoop Jefferson for more feel-good news.
The Buy
Sprucing up the house? Shop fresh rugs and runners that will brighten your home for spring:
🏡 These gorgeous area rugs aren’t just pretty to look at — they’re non-slip, thin enough to fit under doors, and low-pile so dust and dander won’t get trapped.
🚪 Treat the front porch to a 4.7-star rated striped or buffalo check doormat that’s easy to wipe down, vacuum, or throw in the wash.
🌼 Fill the whole room with a vintage floral rug that’s machine washable and complete with non-slip backing.
👟 Add a new look and extra safety to stairs with rubber backed stair treads — just place and go with no adhesive needed.
🛁 Your bath mat has seen a lot of feet — shop a fresh one that’s ultra-absorbent and non-slip for under $20.
20,000. That’s how many unique drink combinations 7 Brew Coffee serves — and now, the drive-thru chain has officially landed in Cleburne. You might be thinking, “Another coffee chain… what’s the big deal?” During the official opening, 7 Brew also presented a $10,000 check to CASA of Johnson County, which recruits volunteers to advocate for children in foster care. Swing by this Saturday, April 4 for Swag Day: Purchase any large drink and score a free T-shirt.