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2606 Jacksboro Hwy, Wichita Falls, TX 76302 940-767-1234 1351 Loop 47, Jolly, TX 76310 940-720-0128 F O U N D A T I O N W F . C O M CHRYSLER • DODGE JEEP • RAM • KIA 2900 Jacksboro Highway Wichita Falls, TX 76302 940-228-4448 CADILLAC • MERCEDES-BENZ BMW • HYUNDAI • GMC • BUICK 315 Central Freeway Wichita Falls, TX 76301 940-228-4448 2606 Jacksboro Hwy, Wichita Falls, TX 76302 940-767-1234 1351 Loop 47, Jolly, TX 76310 940-720-0128 F O U N D A T I O N F . C O CHRYSLER • DODGE JEEP • RAM • KIA 2900 Jacksboro Highway Wichita Falls, TX 76302 940-228-4448 CADILLAC • MERCEDES-BENZ BMW • HYUNDAI • GMC • BUICK 315 Central Freeway Wichita Falls, TX 76301 940-228-4448

49 ENTREPRENEURS YOU SHOULD KNOW Take a look into the businesses that serve our community and those at the heart of them. 64 HOMETOWN BUNDLES OF JOY Welcome our communities’ newest residents. Have your photographer submit newborn images to us to be featured in a future issue. office@hometown-living.com 68 PAINTING THE SOUL Joy South Settle is an emerging artist who beautifully captures the innocence of her subjects. 78 A NEED FOR SPEED Local Eddie Hill recounts his legendary career and love. 88 HOMETOWN HAPPENING 7th Annual Fashion Night Out benefiting Meals on Wheels. 14 HOMETOWN HAPPENING 2022 Cattle Baron’s Ball 20 TEXAS-SIZED DREAMS AND DANCEFLOORS A talented North Texas musician, Race Rutledge, lived up to a promise he made to his mother. 30 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Mystery Art Fest, hosted by The Kemp 34 4-H SPOTLIGHT Wichita Falls Living is thrilled to highlight Caydance Wilson, a member of the Burkburnett 4-H Club. Check out the hard work of this bright young lady. 40 LEADING BY EXAMPLE With the Dad’s Workshop, Alfonso Holmes equips men to parent righteously. Contents On the Cover Photo by Cindy Kahler Thomas 40 34 14 4 wichita falls living

6 wichita falls living IIf you are looking for a caring, qualified dentist in Wichita Falls for your entire family, then look no further. From your first contact with our office, you will notice that The Art of Dentistry is not your typical dentistry. We’ve worked hard to build an exceptional team of dedicated, caring and experienced professionals committed to the dental health of you and your family. Sure, our entire team is committed to providing the best technical expertise in dentistry today, but in the big picture, that is not our primary motivation. Our real business is caring for real people with a wide variety of individual dental concerns. So that’s where we start: With you! Every detail of our practice is directed toward providing the BEST IN-PATIENT CARE: from facilities, equipment, and techniques, to our experienced, friendly staff.We get to know our patients as people, pay attention to their specific situations, listen to their individual concerns, and handle them with care. At The Art of Dentistry, your comfort and confidence are just as important as your teeth. That’s why we take great care of both the smile and the person behind it. Our mission is to provide the highest quality dentistry and patient care available. We offer a full range of treatment options that can be personalized to meet your unique needs and expectations.

7 hometown living at its best We always welcome new patients of every age. Whether you are new to Wichita Falls or seeking an improveddental experience, we inviteyou tocall our office for additional information. 940.691.6066 5 Eureka Circle, Suite A | Wichita Falls, TX 76308 | artofdentistrywf.com OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: General Dentistry • Orthodontics • Teeth Whitening Crown and Bridge • Dental Implants • Preventive Care Periodontal Therapy • Endodontics

I Wichita Falls Living Magazine© is published quarterly by HometownMedia Group, LLC. hometownmedia.group 502 NMain Street PMB 116 | Weatherford, TX 76086 817.599.6167 | PROUDLY PRINTED IN THE USA All rights reserved. Copies or reproduction of this publication in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without expressed written authorization from the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein. Advertising is subject to omission, errors, and other changes without notice. WRITERS Cindy Kahler Thomas Don Thompson James McAfee Taylor Grimm PHOTOGRAPHERS LA Saunders Media Candid Cowlot Photography Cindy Kahler Thomas Don Thompson Carole Brown Photography Taylor Grimm Carla Blanchard Photography *Bundles Angel Filer Photography *Bundles Matt &Heather Martin Executive Publishers Subscribe to our bi-monthly newsletter to get the Dish on the Falls Go to wichitafallsliving.com “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all of these things will be added to you.” - Matthew 6:33 I don’t know about you, but I feel like 2022 went by in the blink of an eye. I have no doubt 2023 will follow in the same fashion, and this issue has got me excited about the potential of a New Year! What I love most about the stories in this issue is the recurring theme of life to the fullest. Each person in this issue has taken risks to build a life founded on their passions—and those around them are blessed because of it. I want to encourage you to do the same in 2023. In reflection of the past year, think about your high points. What are the best memories? What brought joy, or blessed others? In my own reflection I realized experiencing new things, or spending meaningful time with my family and friends were most of my high points. On the other hand, thinking about unfinished projects or incomplete tasks feels like a lowpoint. Ya know, those things that aren’t completely necessary, but have been in your heart for a while? There just never “seems” to be enough hours in the day, or so you think. I am always convicted by the though: “You make time for what’s important.” I refuse to complete 2023 with the same pang of regret. This year I plan to make those low points the new highs. It will be over before we know it, and those we love another year older. Start making the most of it right away! HAPPY NEW YEAR IN “ the Falls!” Casey Perkins Executive Publisher Taylor Grimm Marketing & Client Relations taylor@hometownmedia.group Susan Avery Lead Creative Design Kayla Durham Sales Account Executive kayla@hometownmedia.group Mary Ann Bailey Sales Account Executive Tammy Smith Sales Accounts Receivable Lindsey Kruger Social Media &Newsletter Editor lindsey@hometownmedia.group 8 wichita falls living ON THE COVER Photo by Cindy Kahler Thomas Taylor Grimm “Everything is fleeting. Only God is eternal.” Blessings for your New Year! As an Aggie grad and “horse-girl,” some “high points” never change.

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12 wichita falls living Oswald, Wichita Falls area resident Mike

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14 wichita falls living Courtesy of LINDSAY ARIAS, CBB CO-CHAIR | Photos by CANDID COWLOT PHOTOGRAPHY 2022 Cattle Baron's Ball

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his year’s Cattle Baron’s Ball was a wonderful party with a purpose after having been on hiatus since 2018! As always, Eddie Deen & Co. Catering provided a top-notch meal that includeda trueTexasmenuof smokedbrisket, ribs, smoked sausage, grilled chicken, and pork tenderloin plus plenty of comfort food sides and finished off with blueberry and peach cobbler with vanilla ice cream. After that meal, everyone was ready to dance and Reckless Kelly put on a stellar concert performance that kept everyoneentertained! Thepartycontinued after theconcertwitharockingperformance fromourdanceband, Forte. In between all this dancing, guests were able to bid on an impressive lineupof live and silent auctionpackages aswell. This year’s guests also tried their luck at our casino and tried to hang on for dear life to themechanical bull! CattleBaron’sBall included a beautiful Stars of Hope tribute luminary display to honor those whohavewonor lost their battlewithcancer. Because of amazing support from the Texoma community, we were able to raise $368,000 to benefit the American Cancer Society and continue to provide research, education, and local patient services!

hometown living at its best 17 THANKS TO ALL THE GENEROUS DONATIONS, WEWERE ABLE TO RAISE $368,000 TO BENEFIT THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY AND CONTINUE TO PROVIDE RESEARCH, EDUCATION, AND LOCAL PATIENT SERVICES.

Katelyn Bashford A HERO SERVING HEROES

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TEXAS-SIZED DREAMS and Dancefloors 20 wichita falls living

WRITTEN BY JAMES MCAFEE | PHOTOS BY LA SAUNDERS MEDIA How one north-Texas musician lived up to a promise he made his mother. WWichita Falls entertainment icon Robert “Race” Rutledge, nearing his 80th birthday, still loves to sing and entertain, but could have also enjoyed a life in law enforcement or even as a college professor if not for deciding to follow throughwith a promise to his mother more than 40 years ago. “When I told her of my desire to do music fulltime for the rest of my life back in 1978, I promised that I would do as many benefits as I could to help the community,” Rutledge said. Rutledge has operated Texas Nite Life, located on the Archer City highway, for the past 44 years along with wife of 60 years, Elsie. He performs with the Texas Knights every Saturday night. Rutledge has definitely lived up to the promise 21 hometown living at its best

he made, hosting many benefits like the recent one to raise money for KLUR radio personality Scottie Preston. Sometimes he allows the sponsoring group to do the benefit at his club too. Rutledge said his musical roots came from sitting in church listening to his mother’s angelic voice singing harmonies andhis father’s strongmelodies. He recalls that he also started writing some songs back then, much to the surprise of his mother. Rutledge graduated fromVernon HighSchool in1961afterservingasacaptain of the football and basketball teams as a senior. “I loved playing football and got a few scholarship offers before deciding to go to West Texas State,” he said. “I felt like I was doing good and making nearly all the tackles, but the coach and I didn’t see eye-to-eye on certain things and that ended my time on the gridiron.” Rutledgewent back home and decided it was time to take his singing act, that included a lot of Elvis songs, on the road— traveling all the way to Banff, Canada and later to Las Vegas and Denver. “I just didn’t like that lifestyle on the road and went back closer to home to do some singing,” he recalled. That’s when he saw an advertisement about the Abilene Police Academy and decided he could do some good for people by being a policeman. After graduation he was hired by the local department. “I really enjoyed my time there (1966-1974),” Rutledge said. He recalled once when he was called to the Corral Club to break up a fight and got involved in a shooting where a bullet actually grazed him and wounded a lady nearby. Another time, he jumped on a runaway Caterpillar tractor near theWest Texas Fairgrounds and managed to stop it from going toward a residential area. Of course, he also didn’t quit singing at some of the clubs either. The police chief, however, didn’t think that was the right thing for him to do. So, Rutledge switched to teaching law enforcement at Cisco Junior College while also performing at a club in nearby Breckenridge. He liked the teaching, but 22 wichita falls living

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24 wichita falls living one day the college president approached him and said playing at the honkytonks wasn’t a good image and asked him to stop. Race decided to move on, taking a similar assignment at VernonJunior College. Again, college officials didn’t look favorably about him playing at bars. That’s when Rutledge decided music was his best talent and started performing at Donovan’s Country, located in the same facility he now owns. “I was drawing some good crowds, especially from Vernon,” Rutledge said. “Some of them would call me Lace like they did in school. I didn’t like that, feeling it sounded too feminine, so I decided to use Race when performing.” After the owner decided to sell the honkytonk, he asked Race if hewas interested. Rutledge scraped together $22,500 and stuffed all themoney inpockets of an old coat. “I had the 100s in one pocket and the 20s in another,” he recalled. “The owner wanted $50,000 for a downpayment, but seeing and counting all that cash changedhismind.” Rutledge nowowned the place—along with a big note to handle. In the beginning, Texas Nite Life was open seven nights a week and Race stayed busy handling cleanup, waiter and bartender duties and performed, with assistance from his wife Elsie. Today, the club is

25 hometown living at its best only open on Friday night with a DJ, and Saturday night with Race and the band performing. OnNovember 29, 2010, Rutledge’s building was destroyed by fire along with more than 30 notebooks full of songs he had written. He spent most of the next 400 days working to restore the building, getting help from his son Quin and a few friends. The club reopened on New Year’s Eve of 2012. Rutledge doesn’t consider Texas Nite Life a bar or a nightclub, but instead feels it’s a dance hall. “When you get off work at the end of the week, you can go to Joe’s bar for a beer, but if you want to dance that’s our specialty,” he said, pointing to a Texas-size dance floor. The facility also has a bar, pool tables and a mechanical bucking bull where patrons sometimes line up to see if they can stay on, especially when Race performs songs from the Urban Cowboymovie. “There are people that have been coming for years and sit in the same spots,” Rutledge said. “Everybody knows everybody. We have the best dancers in the state and they are like family to me.” Race and his band provide a mix of old country and rock ‘n’ roll just like is done in old Texas honkytonks, adding some gospel songs that he wrote himself. Some big-name performers have visited the club. One day Elsie got a call and theman identified himself as Larry the cable guy. At

26 wichita falls living first, she didn’t realize it was “Larry the Cable Guy,” a comedian wanting to come out after his performance. Other big names include Alabama before theymade their first album, Razzy Bailey, comedian Ron White and Gary Saurage, the alligator guy. “He even brought an alligator to the club for people to see,” Rutledge said. Rutledge recognized his current band members, who have become like family: *Chris Bayne, lead guitarist, a very talented guitarist from Lawton, Oklahoma who has been with him for over 30 years. Chris also teaches guitar. *Jeff Ayers, drummer, an excellent drummer who is a lifelong resident of Wichita Falls and has been with him for 34 years. *RobinMikalunas, keyboard,whomoved toTexas in the 90's from Florida and got her masters in music from West Texas State. She was the pianist in the Royal Opry in Archer City. †

27 hometown living at its best Schedule Your Campus Tour Today

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6 7 HOMETOWN Happenings Best Animal Adult - Elk & Company by Jesse Baggett Best Floral - Summer Fancy by Catherine Stringfellow Home & Garden 2024 Featured Artwork April Showers by Amy Frank Best Still Life Adult - Larry Hamilton Mystery Art 2023 Cover Artwork Steps of the Heart(s) by Joshua Bradley Best Landscape Adult - By Wayne Edwards Best of Show Adult Midnight Sacrifice by Shawn Ramos

31 hometown living at its best 2022WAS ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR OF MYSTERY ART AT THE KEMP! Now in its 17th year, Mystery Art is an annual exhibit and auction of artwork created by local and regional artists of all ages and skill levels. All artwork is donated by the participating artists and their names are hidden throughout the length of the exhibit, thus themystery! On the first day of the exhibit artwork is judged and awards are given in several categories. Artwork is displayed in the NorthLight Gallery at the Kemp Center for the Arts during the month of October and patrons and supporters can submit their bids to try and claim a piece of artwork! During the exhibit, the Kemp held several gallery events and activities, such as the Artist Kickoff Reception, Poetry Reading with the Wichita Falls Poetry Society, and the Finale Live Auction. Judges for the 2022 exhibit were Todd Erick Hawkins, Executive Director of the Irving Arts Center, Taryn Rogers, owner of The Gallery Frame Shoppe + Goods, and Dierrica Smith, Director of Resource Development for the North Texas Area United Way. All proceeds from the auction fund the Arts Council Galleries and Artist Education programming, which provides free gallery space to exhibiting artists, as well as community galleries around theWichita Falls community. ART FEST 2022 Mystery Best Symbolism Adult It is My Choice & I Dissent by Jules Scales Best Portrait & First Taste People's Choice Award Adult Here Comes the Sun by Kim Ward Best of Show Youth Tangerine Blossom by Kay Hazleton Best of Abstract Adult - Under the Sea by Ercie Hill

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33 hometown living at its best Crossvine A Financial Planning Firm is a marketing name for doing business as representatives of Northwestern Mutual, it is not a registered investment adviser, broker-dealer, insurance agency or federal savings bank. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI, and its subsidiaries. WICHITA FALLS 2405 KELL BOULEVARD . SUITE 200 WICHITA FALLS . TEXAS 76308 FORT WORTH 1300 SUMMIT AVENUE . SUITE 800 FORT WORTH . TEXAS 76102 SPEND YOUR LIFE LIVING.

34 wichita falls living HOWLONGHAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED IN 4-H PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS? 7 years CAYDANCE WILSON photos provided by the wilson family WHERE DO YOU LIVE? Wichita Falls 4-H Spotlight ARE YOU ANOFFICER? IF SO, WHICH POSITION? I am currently the president of the Burkburnett 4-H club 4-H CLUB Burkburnett 4-H Club WHAT 4-HACTIVITIES ARE YOU INVOLVED IN? I amcurrentlyshowing dairy goats and participating in livestock judging, but I have also shown turkeys and horses. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE AND LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT SHOWING? My favorite thing about showing is spending time with my family. When we go to shows my family is always with me to help with anything I need. I have also enjoyed working hard to achieve my goals. It hasbeenso rewarding to see the growth inmyherd. My least favorite thing about showing is having to wake up early to make it to the shows on time.

35 hometown living at its best HOWHAS BEING A PART OF 4-H PROGRAMS PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE/GOALS? Being a part of 4-H has taught me leadership skills that one needs for everyday life. It has also help me narrowdownacareer fieldofbecominga largeanimal veterinarian. WHERE HAVE YOU COMPETED ANDWHAT AWARDS HAVE YOUWON? I have competed at the Wichita County Junior Livestock Show for four years. I won the junior grand champion buckle last year for western riding. I competed at the District 3 4-H competition in 2021 and 2022 and won the buckle for Western Riding Junior Grand Champion. I traveled to the state 4-H Competition in 2021 and won 9th place in Western Pleasure. I competed in the State Special Olympics Equestrian Competition in 2019 and 2022. WHY IS BEING IN 4-H IMPORTANT TO YOU? Being part of 4-H is important to me because raising and showing dairy goats has taught me so many aspects of responsibility. You have a life to care for 24/7. When you raise any animal, there are no days off. You have to care for them on the hottest days of summer and the coldest days of winter. WHATWOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THINKING ABOUT JOINING 4-H? I would tell anyone interested in 4-H that it is not only about showing animals. There are so many activities one cando in4-H. There is everything from photography to horticulture. 4-H can teach you so many leadership and life skills.

36 wichita falls living WHERE HAVE YOU COMPETED ANDWHAT AWARDS HAVE YOUWON? I have competed in every major dairy goat show in Texas along with the Wichita County Junior Livestock show and many dairy goat club shows. At the club shows I have won Grand Champion, Reserve Champion, Best in show, and Showmanship multiple times. More specifically at majors • State Fair of Texas 2x Reserve Dairy Wether Grand Champion Junior Doe Best in Show 2x Reserve Champion Junior Doe 2x Showmanship • Ft Worth Stock Show& Rodeo 2x Grand Champion Junior Doe 2x Reserve Champion Best in Show • Houston Livestock Show& Rodeo Grand champion Junior Doe • West Texas Livestock Show& Rodeo Grand Champion Junior Doe Best in Show Showmanship • Wichita County Junior Livestock Show 3x Grand Champion Reserve Champion WHAT OTHER GROUPS/ORGANIZATIONS ARE YOU INVOLVED IN? I amalso involved inNationalHonorSociety, PALs, FFA and play on the varsity basketball team.

37 hometown living at its best WHERE DO YOUWANT TO GO TO COLLEGE ANDWHATWILL YOU STUDY? After high school I plan to attend West Texas A & M University and major in animal science. My goal is to become a large animal veterinarian. WHO IS YOURMENTOR? My mother is my main mentor but I have met many people through the years of showing that have given me great advice and helped me along the way. TELLUS A FUNNY STORYABOUT SOMETHING THAT HAPPENED WHILE CARING FOR YOUR ANIMAL OR DURING A COMPETITION. An embarrassing story that has happened to me was when Iwaswaiting in line togo into the showring. For dairy goat shows, you are required to wear all white. I was talking to friends while waiting in line to enter the show ring. My mom was holding my goat for me when all of a sudden my leg felt very warm. I looked downandmy goatwas peeing onmy leg. I didnot have time to go change before going into the ring and had to showwith a yellow pee stain on my leg. WHAT ARE YOURHOBBIES/INTERESTS? Some of my other hobbies and interests include playing basketball and spending time with friends and family. WORDS OFWISDOM: Manypeoplealong thewaywill try toknockyoudown for your success. Just keep your head high and keep striving for greatness.

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40 wichita falls living T WRITTEN BY DON THOMPSON | PHOTOS BY HAROLD BENNETT, DARREON HARPER, AND CATHERINE EARLY There is a problem in the world. Some kids are neglected, or mistreated, or even abused. The first step in solving a problem is to recognize it, then find a solution, and take steps to resolve it.Wichita Falls-native Alfonso Holmes saw the problem and is actively working towards a solution. Hewasmoldedbyhis dad fromanearly age to solve this problem. His dad helped kids in the community, and Alfonso and his brother saw this. His dad served as a role model to kids that did not have a role model by engaging them through sports, particularly basketball, then showed by example what a real father does. A stint in the military, serving in the Army, helped him “turn the rudder,” as he calls it, to be a better role model. His faith also called him to solve the problem. Holmes quotes Matthew 6:33, New King James Version: “Seek the Kingdomof God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.” WITH THE DAD’S WORKSHOP, ALFONSO HOLMES EQUIPS MEN TO PARENT RIGHTEOUSLY. LEADING by Example

41 hometown living at its best Alfonso Holmes and Catherine Early

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43 hometown living at its best Developing the tools he needed to resolve the problem started with a basketball program at church 30 years ago, the First Baptist Basketball Outreach program. Next, he opened a daycare named “Our Blessed Tomorrow.” This took off and was the largest daycare in the area after three years. Then he opened a daycare at his church, which led him to become more involved with theUnitedWay organization. “By having faith, trying our best to live righteously, andworking hard, we can find the tools we need to make a difference,” Holmes said. “All of us have a purpose.” “We still see the fruit from seeds sown at the daycare,” Holmes said. He sees kids now that were in his daycare years ago that have grown into happy and productive young adults. A “tune-up” on how to be a father, a “Dad’s Workshop,” has been another of Holmes solutions. He knows that fathers makeauniqueandinvaluablecontribution to the well-being of children. The Dad’s WorkshopProgramisdesignedtoenhance the role fathers play in their kids’ lives and stresses the importance of being an active father. Changing fathers’ attitudes, knowledge, and skills equips fatherswith the self-awareness, compassion, and the sense of responsibility that every good parent needs. The Dad’sWorkshop sessions can be in a group setting or in a one-on-one home-based program, teaching men the characteristics they need to be good fathers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The topics covered are familyhistory, what it means to be a man, showing and handling feelings, men’s health, communication, discipline, children’s growth, workingwithmom, dealingwith anger, competition and fathering, and havingfunwiththekids.Holmesstrivesto reach out to the kidswith issues, involve them and teach the kids as well as their dads. In early June, with the help of his CHANGING FATHERS’ ATTITUDES, KNOWLEDGE, AND SKILLS EQUIPS FATHERS WITH THE SELF-AWARENESS, COMPASSION, AND THE SENSE OF RESPONSIBILITY THAT EVERY GOOD PARENT NEEDS.

44 wichita falls living wife Nannette, assistant Dennis Bass, the Juvenile Justice system, and the All Hands Cultural Community Center, a group of eight boys, all going into the 9th grade this fall, with no fathers in their lives, started participating in a summer program at the Center toguide themintohealthier lifestyles. On the first day of the program, Alfonso and Nannette grilled burgers for the boys, and began getting to know each other to

45 hometown living at its best kick off the summer program at the community center. TheAllHandsCulturalCommunity Center at 302 Tulsa Street inWichita Falls isanexcellent facility, awonderful resourceandpositivemeetingplace. It was donated to the community by the YMCA years ago. The Center features a full-size indoor basketball court, an exercise roomwithmachines and free weights, a computer lab, a large indoorswimmingpool,meetingrooms, and other features. “I have many to thank,” Alfonso said. “I could not do thiswithout thesupportof theUnited Way,theAllHandsCulturalCenter,the staff at the Juvenile Justice System, andmost importantly, my wife of 25 years, Nannette.” He is an energetic, driven, and inspiringmantomeetandworkwithin any capacity andhisworkwill benefit the community and countless lives formany years. For this, Alfonso and men like himdeserve all the support the community can give. †

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2023 Entrepreneurs You Should Know Entrepreneur – noun : one who organizes, manages, and assumes the risks of a business or enterprise That short definition from Merriam-Webster cannot fully encapsulate what it means to be an entrepreneur—or the spirit of gumption and dedication it takes to be a successful one. It doesn’t say anything about the joy found when purpose and occupation meet—or the impact on those benefitted by it. Without their caring service, fund-raising sponsorship, or employment capacity, our community would function very differently. Take a look into the businesses that serve our community and those at the heart of them. “I love entrepreneurship because that’s what makes this country grow, and if I can help companies grow, I am creating jobs; I am setting foundations for future generations. It sends the message that the American Dream is alive and well.” —Mark Cuban, American entrepreneur, television personality, media proprietor, and investor m 49 hometown living at its best

Who are your biggest supporters? My wife, mom, team at Crossvine, and peers at Northwestern Mutual. What makes you and your business unique? The phrase “Wealth Management” gets thrown around loosely. For many, it simply means managing investments. We do that— and we do it well. However, TRUE Wealth Management is more encompassing. To our clients it means having a personal CFO that has the skillset, designations, and experience to help you with ALL aspects of your financial life. Crossvine has a three-step process: protecting, building, living. We are proud to be backed by Northwestern Mutual, which has been serving clients for 165 years and is one of the most financially secure companies in the world. Why are you passionate about this industry? Crossvine shines during times of transition. For example, selling your business or retirement. Your entire career boiled down to digits in an account. Our conversations are more than just money—as they should be! We also meet people when they’re most vulnerable. For example, the death of a loved one. A widow once handed me a check and said, “This is all I have.” What a responsibility! Our team was built to have heavy shoulders so you can lean on us during seasons of uncertainty. What is the best piece of advice you have received? How you do ANYTHING is how you do EVERYTHING. CROSSVINE A FINANCIAL PLANNING FIRM 2405 Kell Blvd, Suite 200, Wichita Falls crossvine.nm.com Brian Blair CFP®, RICP® Partner & Private Wealth Advisor ALIGN AUDIOLOGY Tessa Menchaca, Au.D. 4610 Kell West Blvd, Wichita Falls 940.263.1248 alignaudiology.com What makes you and your business unique from the rest? Align Audiology is the only woman-owned audiology private practice in Wichita Falls. Offering one-on-one direct patient care, I take pride in knowing each patient and their audiology needs on a personal level. Why are you passionate about this industry? Allowing patients to hear again and improve their hearing abilities greatly enhances their quality of life. This contributes to the patients overall well-being, allowing spousal, friend, and family interaction to be more connected. Assisting in this improvement is gratifying. What is your favorite aspect about your role? As a private practice owner, I love the ability to schedule enough time with each patient to fully cater to their hearing needs. Through this time, I have the privilege of getting to know each of my patients, bonding with them and their families and growing a deeper and more meaningful relationship. This is very important to me as a provider, especially in the close community of Wichita Falls. What is the biggest challenge you have overcome when growing your business so far? Differentiating between a private practice with a hearing instrument specialist verses a doctor of audiology has been challenging. Being a doctor in my field allows a broader and more detailed scope of practice in comparison to a hearing instrument specialist. The general public does not always recognize these differences. An audiologist detects and diagnoses hearing loss by taking a medical approach to the ear. Being able to perform further diagnostic testing ensures the complete health of the ear and better prognosis for the patient. How do the residents of the community benefit from your business? The residents of Wichita Falls and the surrounding communities benefit from Align Audiology by having one-on-one interaction from a native who was raised in the area and can understand her patients on a personal level and what challenges they may face. Whether it is needing custom hearing protection for hunting season, bluetooth connected custom earphones or earplugs for our pilots at SAFB, or hearing aid adjustments or hearing aids with a friendly and familiar face, Align Audiology can meet these needs. 50 wichita falls living

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What makes you and your business unique? We are very blessed to serve the Wichita Falls community and be one of the few plastic surgery practices with a very large patient base and an extremely supportive community. What is your favorite aspect of your role? Plastic surgery is a very diverse specialty, and we perform quite a few different procedures, both cosmetic and reconstructive. Procedures include breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, tummy tuck, face lift, neck lift, blepharoplasty, liposuction, and reconstructive procedures such as breast reconstruction for breast cancer and excision of skin cancer. As our practice has grown it has been more difficult to perform all of these procedures and we have had to tailor our practice gearing towards more cosmetic surgeries with breast reconstruction still being an area that is special to me personally. Why are you passionate about this industry? I truly enjoy coming to work every day and getting to perform surgeries that give people so much joy and happiness. Many of the procedures we perform are life-changing for patients. Plastic surgery is one of the fastest growing specialties and it is always fulfilling to be on the forefront of new techniques and changes with regards to minimally invasive and noninvasive procedures and surgeries. What is the best piece of advice you have received OR would give? Staying grounded and being thankful for the ability to perform plastic surgery and help people achieve their goals. Who is your biggest mentor? Dr. Rod Rohrich is arguably one of the most famous plastic surgeons in the world. I was fortunate to have trained under him at UT Southwestern and I am very blessed to call him a supportive mentor. What was the most influential job you’ve ever had and why? Serving in the Air Force as a general and trauma surgeon helped shape me to become a better surgeon technically and be able to deal with stressful and complex operations. Trauma surgery can be very intense and taught me to stay cool and confident in stressful situations. TEXOMA PLACTIC SURGERY Dr. Phil Stephan 220 Kell Blvd., Wichita Falls 940.264.2600 drphilstephan.com 52 wichita falls living

REBECCA LAMMERS ALL STATE Rebecca Lammers 4210 Kell Blvd, Suite 106, Wichita Falls 940.285.6095 https://agents.allstate.com/rebecca-lammers-wichita-falls-tx.html What makes you and your business unique? Everyone needs insurance and you can always shop and find a lower price but my team and I provide a level of customer service that is unmatched…My team is the foundation of my business. They understand my vision and my “why” and we work together striving to exceed the needs of our customers. What is your favorite aspect of your role? I love having the opportunity to meet our community. As Wichita Falls and the surrounding areas continue to grow, it still feels like a small town. Who is your biggest fan? My husband, Geoff, and my three daughters – They have been by my side always supporting me from when I opened the business 4 years ago, they help with our community events and are continuing to encourage me as we expand our business this year. What is the best piece of advice you have received OR would give? My mission statement: Don’t be in sales; be on a mission. Be so convicted in what you do that you have no choice but to tell everyone you know about it. Don’t just be closing deals; be changing lives. Don’t just be pushing product; be transforming customers. Don’t just be selling; be serving. How are you involved in your community? I am on the board of Impact 100 as the Grants Chair Assistant. When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up? To be honest I have no idea what I wanted to be but I always joke that no one grows up thinking they want to be an insurance agent, but the path that led me here was perfectly designed… 53 hometown living at its best

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What makes you and your business unique? Roberta: “Our service. We truly value and care for our clients and are always trying to go above and beyond. Many of our clients now feel like family.” What is the biggest challenge you’ve overcome when growing your business and/or serving consumers? Malee: “Time, there are not enough hours in the day to complete our visions.” Who is your biggest fan? Malee: “My mother, because she was a great entertainer, decorator and supporter to anything I wanted to do.” What is the best piece of advice you have received OR would give? Roberta: “Do what you love, and you will never work a day in your life. I never want to retire; I am living my dream.” What hobbies do you enjoy when not hard at work? Both: “Duchess and Mimi are our grandmother names. For both of us, our biggest hobbies are our grandchildren at this stage in our lives.” DUCHESS + MIMI Roberta Richardson &Malee Haley 620 Ohio Avenue, Suite 102 Wichita Falls 940.228.5208 What makes you and your business unique? Tangles salon has been in business for 35 years. Continuing education and lifelong learning are part of our core values. Tangles Salon features award winning stylists, 4 Goldwell Master Colorist and 7 Goldwell Master Stylists. What is the biggest challenge you’ve overcome when growing your business and/or serving consumers? I think in any business our biggest hurdle is maintaining quality and consistency in the delivery of consumer services. Hair dressing is an artisan practice that’s the beauty of it. Why are you passionate about this industry? I am passionate about my business and hairdressers. It has been my life. I think the epitome of success is loving what you do and being paid to do it. How are you involved in your community? We have been involved in a fundraising effort called FASHION NIGHT OUT since 2012 where an average of $80,000.00 has been given to charity from each event. Other community services Tangles Salon offers are wig consultation for cancer patients. The patient is only charged for the price of the wig when ordered. The consultation and wig cutting, and styling is completely free. What was the most influential job you’ve ever had and why? The most influential job I’ve ever had is as a hair stylist and owning Tangles Salon. As a stylist I have the unique ability to touch people. A hair style or hair color deals directly with a persons identity and sociology As a Hair stylist I can help someone fell better about themselves. There’s a program called LOOK GOOD FEEL BETTER it’s very true. When you look better you feel better about yourself. What is the best piece of advice you have received OR would give? The biggest piece of advice I can give is to find a way to stay passionate about your work and develop a attitude of gratitude and life long learning. TANGLES SALON Robin Cook 2913 Garnett Avenue, Wichita Falls 940.767.4600 55 hometown living at its best

1607 Brook Avenue, Wichita Falls 940.692.1522 Fallschiro.com Dr. David Cartwright FALLS CLINIC What makes you and your business unique? At Falls Clinic we offer a unique blend of traditional and proven chiropractic services, cutting edge technology and therapies, and advanced nutrition to help patients heal on multiple levels. We always work to find the root cause of our patients’ problems and not just mask the symptoms or address only where it hurts. Since we take a whole person approach, we regularly see our patient’s overall health improve in addition to the main symptom or problem that they initially came to us for help with. What is your favorite aspect about your role? As the founder and clinical director of Falls Clinic, I have been here since the beginning and have seen how much we have grown and all the lives we have helped. It’s been an honor to serve our community and our patients! Some of my favorite aspects of this role is seeing the light come back into people’s eyes and life as they heal. So many are dealing with chronic health issues that are just being masked with medications and no real healing is happening. Its amazing to see how much people can improve from chronic issues. As they start to heal physically, many also begin to heal emotionally. I never get tired of hearing how one of our patients can now play with their kids, grandchildren, or spend time with their family because of their improvements. Why are you passionate about this industry? I am passionate about chiropractic and natural healing because I was a successful patient before I became a doctor. For 10 years I suffered with debilitating spinal problems. After seeing at least 10 different doctors, specialists, and/or surgeons, no one was able to help me. Dr. Marla, a chiropractor, who trained at the same gym suggested a chiropractic evaluation. That was one of the best decisions I ever made. My first treatment with her gave me more improvement than all the other things I had tried for almost 10 years. Best piece of advice I have received and/or would give. Always invest in yourself. Read a book, learn a new skill, take time to heal, spend time with your family and friends. Grow as an individual. No one will invest in you if you are unwilling to invest in yourself. TRUEHEART BRANDS Danny Martinez What makes you and your business unique? We are a boutique brands company. What is the biggest challenge you’ve overcome when growing your business and/or serving consumers? Making sure we stay open minded to change What is your favorite aspect about your role? Hosting and entertaining Who is your biggest fan/mentor? My mom and aunts are my biggest fans and great businessmen and women are my mentors. What three words would your friends use to describe you? I am driven, passionate, and determined. What was the most influential job you’ve ever had and why? Dancing on stage for 100k people in Mexico 56 wichita falls living

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OLIVER TRAVEL Kayleigh Oliver 940.285.6095 What makes you and your business unique? In general, making travel arrangements can be stressful especially when it is for a group or family. By allowing me to make the arrangements it takes the stress off you, and allows you to simply show up and enjoy your vacation! On the business side, I come from a management background for the last 6 years and so I understand the importance of saving on labor anywhere you can. By allowing me to make any travel arrangements for you, your team can focus on their assigned tasks. What is your favorite aspect of your role? My favorite aspect of this role I have found is getting to help people! It’s amazing how many resources we are given to help plan trips and excursions that most people would never think of or have access to. This kind of knowledge is truly what adds value to using a travel agent! I take extreme pride in any role that I hold and ensure that I can perform in the most efficient way possible. What is the best piece of advice you have received OR would give? My old boss and mentor Joshua Craig taught me while I was working with him at Cotton Patch, if you always lead with the truth your clients will usually be more understanding of the situation. If you make a mistake own up to it and have a plan for how you are going to make it right. They may be upset at the time but after they have time to calm down, they will respect your honesty, and trust you in the future. It is more important to be honest than to protect your ego. This advise has never led me wrong. How are you involved in your community? Currently, I am very involved in the chamber of commerce as a member of the Chamber Remotes Story Tellers, and the Circuit. Previously I held an active role in Junior League, as well as the Empty Bowls committee with the Wichita Falls Area Food Bank. What hobbies do you enjoy when not hard at work? I love listening to Podcasts and Audio Books, I crave knowledge and growth both in my personal and professional lives. I spend a lot of time in the car throughout the week plus I have two daughters under three so I don’t exactly have a lot of free time to myself. How do the residents of the community benefit from your business? The knowledge and help that I can give them for any of their travel needs for free! I do not charge additional fees I am fully commission based. I am here to help and manage the details of their trips so they can focus on what really matters, building memories with friends and family or their work trip needs. 58 wichita falls living

What makes you and your business unique? Our venue is one of the oldest structures in our community, dating back to the late 1800s. We had a vision to restore this original ICE House and make it a stunning venue that would appeal to many people. One of the best things about our venue is that it includes everything you would need to have a stunning wedding or event, from tables and chairs, china and flatware, décor and more. What is the biggest challenge you’ve overcome when growing your business and/or serving consumers? We bought the building in in August of 2018 and it was in ruins. We did almost all of the work ourselves, as a family, poured our blood, sweat and tears into making it a place for people to start the rest of their lives together. We completed the venue in May of 2019 for my niece’s wedding. Everyone told us that we were crazy, that it wasn’t possible. We proved them wrong. We created an amazing space that we are very proud of. We opened in the summer of 2019, the summer before COVID-19 hit. That put a bit of a kink in weddings for a year or so. Who is your biggest fan? We are very family oriented. As a husband and wife team we are each other’s biggest supporters and fans. What is the best piece of advice you have received OR would give? One thing we want our brides and grooms to understand is that your wedding day is just one day. Marriage is about a commitment and loyalty to the person you love, through the good and the bad. How are you involved in your community? We were both raised in the community and are very involved in our little town. We serve on many boards, the school board, Chamber of Commerce, tax board and we are constantly trying to help other businesses in the town grow and thrive. Our passion is to see our little town shine. What hobbies do you enjoy when not hard at work? We are new grandparents. We try to spend as much time as we can loving on our kids and grandbaby. We also love to travel and see the world. THE ICE HOUSE EVENT VENUE Bryan & Myranda Baldwin 107 N Oak, Seymour 940.337.0383 theicehouseeventvenue.com 59 hometown living at its best

What makes you and your business unique? This store features new and resale-quality furniture, repurposed furniture, clothes, jewelry, home decor, food items from Oklahoma, and many more “Made in Oklahoma” products. 1010 Mercantile brings together, in one store, numerous vendors from Lawton, giving the store a very strong southwest feeling. What is your favorite aspect of your role? I look forward to helping people fulfill their fashion and furnishing needs at a reasonable price. Why are you passionate about this industry? I have always believed there is a need for a store to showcase quality used furniture. With the help of many wonderful vendors, this store has accomplished just that. Who is your biggest mentor? My Mother; my desire to help people with their decorating and fashion needs, and the skills to do so were taught for years by her. 1010 MERCANTILE Mary Ann Robinson 1802 West Gore Blvd. Lawton, OK 580.695.5983 1010mercantile.business.sit 60 wichita falls living

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BUNDLES OF Joy HOMETOWN Join us in welcomingWichita Falls’ newest residents! Have your photographer share your sweet bundle with us for future issues, email office@hometown-living.com. 2 1 3 4 5 6 7 64 wichita falls living

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PAINTING the Soul 68 wichita falls living

by CINDY KAHLER THOMAS An emerging artist on the scene of Wichita Falls, Joy South Settle strives to capture the innocence of her subjects by painting portraits, animals, and even the predators of Africa JJoy South Settle, aka Joy South Fox, moved to Wichita Falls last November and brought her art and her heart to our fair city. Joy has been painting since she was 5 years old. She is self-taught with an attention to detail. Her art seeks out the innocence and soul of her subjects. She has an affinity for animals especially and uses themas subjects quite frequently. “I havealwayshadaspecial fondness for them. It doesn’t matter what kind of animal it is I love them all,” she said. “The first picture I painted was of Black Beauty. I had just painted it, and there was a lady that lived up the street fromme that said she wanted it, so, I told her she could have it. That’s how it all started,” she said nostalgically. “I had an uncle, Michael South, who was anartist. Hewas self-taught also. He foundout that I had an interest in it. I wouldwatchwhat he did and ask questions, andhewent out and bought a bunch of supplies and gave them to me; and said, ‘Paint.’ I guess he was my first good critic because if I didn’t do something right, or somethingwas off, hewould say, ‘This ishowyoudo it,’” Joy explained. “Hehelpedme 69 hometown living at its best

to get things right.” In school, she found that her art skills facilitated an easy way to pass classes. For example, when shewas inWest Virginiawhere she grew up, she had a history teacher that asked her to paint every site where there had been a state capital with a guarantee that she would pass the class. “I was like, let’s do this! I didn’t knowwe had so many, it was interesting to learn, so, I did learn some stuff,” she saidwith a chuckle. Joy’s college diplomas include “psychology for children and forensic psychology for criminals.” She only used her art skills in fingerprint analysis and facial reconstruction. “I was bored and didn’t know what I wanted to do, so I just did everything,” she said smiling. “I just didn’t have any interest in studying art.” However, that training in facial reconstruction has come in handy with her portrait painting. She did get a degree that she has used and will continue to use in herbal medicine. “I am a Natural Health Consultant. I have been doing herbal medicine for several years now, and I treat my family and friends. I heal basically anything, herbal medicine is such a broad spectrum,” she explained. Her heritage is Native American, and her family name is South Fox. Through research, she has learned that she is a descendant of a line of chiefs and healers. In fact, her parents practiced herbal healing. Her art is heavily influenced by her spiritual walk and her Native American roots. While she paints portraits, landscapes and other subjects her favorite is animals. “I like to show animals nurturing with loved ones. They have the same emotions that we do,” Joy said. She loves to paint African 70 wichita falls living

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