LIVINGSTON, TX – Local resident Billy Bob Jenkins created quite the stir at the Texas Craft Fair last weekend when he fervently insisted he had spotted a black panther roaming the fairgrounds. Eyewitnesses reported seeing Jenkins frantically pointing towards a vendor’s booth, shouting, “Y’all better watch out, there’s a big ol’ black panther on the loose!”

Despite the initial panic, it was soon discovered that the supposed black panther was actually just a lifelike taxidermy display at the booth of local artist, Bubba Ray Sikes. The lifelike craftsmanship of Sikes’ work had fooled Jenkins and several other fair attendees, leading to a brief moment of chaos before the truth was revealed.

“I was just tryin’ to add some excitement to the craft fair, you know?” Jenkins sheepishly explained when confronted with the reality of the situation. “I guess I got a little carried away. But in my defense, that panther looked realer than a two-headed snake in a sack!”

While the incident caused a temporary disruption, organizers of the Texas Craft Fair were quick to diffuse the situation and assure attendees that there were no actual black panthers on the loose in Polk County. Sikes, the talented taxidermist behind the faux feline, took the mishap in stride and even saw a boost in sales as curious fairgoers flocked to his booth to admire his handiwork.

As for Jenkins, he has since promised to keep a closer eye on his surroundings at future events, vowing to never mistake taxidermy for live wildlife again. In the meantime, the Texas Craft Fair continues to delight and surprise attendees with its unique offerings, ensuring that the local community remains entertained and engaged.