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Contents WICHITA FALLS PRCA RODEO The Wichita Falls Rodeo preserves western heritage, showcases cowboy skill, and serves the community. 16 HOMETOWNHAPPENING Wichita Falls Summer Delivery Party 12 HOMETOWNHAPPENING Wichita Falls Art AssociationMembers’ Exhibit 26 PATRIOT GUARD RIDERS North Texas patriots celebrate heroes’ safe arrival home, and escort those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to their final resting place. 36 HOMETOWN BUNDLES Join us in welcoming Wichita Falls’ newest residents! 30 4-H SPOTLIGHT Alexander Mountain, son of Rodney and Jennifer Mountain and member of Wichita County Horse Club, shares his experience and special equestrian opportunities. 44 4 wichita falls living

Contents 84 2022 CATTLE BARON’S BALL STYLE SHOW Western fashion and funding for cancer research. CAROLWAGNER: CALLED TO SERVE Long-time Wichita Falls resident builds bridges in the community through a lifetime of service. 50 TRAVEL GUIDE Take a drive to some surrounding towns and don’t be surprised if you feel a world away. 58 THE SMALL SETTLEMENT THAT SHAPED TEXAS Doan’s Crossing gained a place in cowboy lore, and lives there still. HOMETOWNHAPPENING A Ribbon Cutting to Remember 74 HOMETOWN COOKIN’ Sparkling Apple Cider Punch 80 64 On the Cover Photo by LA Saunders Media 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. 8 wichita falls living

We always welcome new patients of every age. Whether you are new to Wichita Falls or seeking an improved dental experience, we invite you to call 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 • Along with many others 9 hometown living at its best

F 10 wichita falls living 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 Sabrina Forse Taylor Grimm PHOTOGRAPHERS Bobby Rosales NLP 87015 LA Saunders Media Taylor Grimm Jenna LaRue Photography * Bundles Carla Blanchard Photography * Bundles Matt &Heather Martin Executive Publishers “You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God.” ~ Corinthians 9:11 Fall is finally creeping in and I, for one, could not be more ready. I absolutely love this time of year. The air is beginning to get crisp, the leaves are showing signs of turning their brilliant colors, Pumpkin Spice everything, cozy sweaters and comfort food. While this is an exceptionally busy time of year, my favorite part of the Fall season is carrying on with the old and making new family traditions with my husband, Troy and our two exceptional boys, Logan and Brodey. I look forward to a season of togetherness and many Autumn adventures. As an Account Executive, I love exploring Wichita Falls and meeting its residents. I always look forward to reading the incredible stories of the people that make this community a truly special place to live. As we creep into the holiday shopping season, I encourage you to support our neighbors, our friends and our community by shopping, dining and entertaining locally. Whatever it is, you can find it in the Falls! Lastly, Wichita Falls Living Magazine wouldn’t be what is without the incredible community support. We sincerely thank our loyal readers and generous advertisers that make this beautiful publication possible. Wishing you an abundance of blessings! Kayla Durham Sales Account Executive HELLO FALL IN “ The Falls!” Casey Perkins Executive Publisher Amy Shippy Hometown Media Group CEO Taylor Grimm Marketing & Client Relations office@hometown-living.com 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 content@hometown-living.com photo by Jessica Rachel Photography

PARTY DELIVERY HOMETOWN Happenings Wichita Falls Living Magazine would like to thank everyone that came out andmade our summer delivery party such a success!We had a fabulous time reading themagazine in company of those who helped create it. Advertisers, writers, photographers and feature subjects enjoyed a coffee on us, and we enjoyed being able to put a face to their name. We hope to see you at the next one! living WICHITA FALLS Axis Construction Wichita Falls Living Coordinator, Taylor Grimm, with Chris Donaghey, mom of our summer 4-H spotlight Wichita Falls Living Representative, Mary Ann Bailey with Ashley of Foundation Automotive and writer, Cindy Kahler Thomas Jacksboro National Bank Wichita Falls Living Coordinator, Taylor Grimm, with writer Don Thompson next to his cover story on Wyman Meinzer Wichita Falls writers chatting about stories! Cortlett, Probst & Boyd with Mary Ann Bailey Thank you to our host, Collective Coffee.

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16 wichita falls living WRITTEN BY TAYLOR GRIMM | PHOTOS BY BOBBY ROSALES NLP 87015 The Wichita Falls Rodeo preserves western heritage, showcases cowboy skill, and serves the community. WICHITA FALLS PRCA RODEO T The Wichita Falls Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association’s (PRCA) Rodeo was held August 19th and 20th at Kay Yeager Coliseum. Bobbi Loran, the rodeo’s official spokesperson and former Miss Rodeo Texas said the rodeo is incredibly important in Wichita Falls. “First and foremost, this is not just an average rodeo,” she said. “This is a PRCA-sanctioned rodeo. This is the oldest and largest sanctioning body of rodeo, and the most elite. It’s judged with the highest standard you can experience in rodeo. It’s really a big deal.” The rodeo consisted of the 7 traditional events, plus a few additional acts and competitions for attendees toenjoy. Kidswere able to get in on the funwith a calf scramble, where studentsmust single-handedly catch and halter a calf. Those able to do so are awarded a $500 scholarship. Entertainment was also provided by The Texas SpiritRiders, amounteddrill teamfrom East Texas. “They are phenomenal,” Bobbi said. “It’s beautiful, they carry flags and ride their horses to a choreographed routine.” Their music and outfits were inspired by

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hometown living at its best 19 the rodeo’s two themed nights. The first was the military night. Bobbi said, “This is when we honor our service men. We have a big military display, speakers from the air force base come and talk to us, and we actually have an enlistment ceremony for those here inWichita going into the air force, so it’s a really special night for a lot people.” She said that night all active military can get into the rodeo free with their ID, and it’s important that they are given the glory they deserve. The other theme night is Tough Enough toWear Pink Night. Bobbi is proud to report that Rodeo proceeds will help save lives by cancer detection. She said “A portion of the proceeds generated this night in rodeo will go to benefit the United Regional Mammogramfund.” Specifically, themoney will go towards a fund that provides women with free mammogram tests. The importance of western heritage is undeniable in Wichita Falls’ culture, and the rodeo is instrumental in preserving that. “When you look at Wichita Falls, it was basically founded on cattle ranching, and the western way of life and farming. It has always had deep western roots, and

20 wichita falls living that’s something we exhibit here at the WF PRCA rodeo.” While rodeo was formed based on ranching practices, it is now also a beautiful, more public ode to those practices that are seldom seen by the public eye. Bobbi believes the rodeo is key in preserving the intangible aspects of the western industry as well. “There’s so many core values in rodeo, like what we call the “cowboy code:” always doing what’s right, and working hard forwhat youwant in life. It’s really cool to be apart of it,” she said. Adding to the prestige, The Wichita Falls PRCA is a qualifying event for the ForthWorthStockShowandRodeo. Bobbi said the cowboys and cowgirls that win will get a free ticket to go compete at Fort Worth in January—an opportunity to compete for 1.2 million dollars. †

21 hometown living at its best Rodeo Committee: Kurt Tucker; President, Sonny DeLuna; Vice President, JanDeLuna; Secretary and Treasurer, Chuck Cox, Kathy Dickey, JTDeLuna, Becky Cotton, Marla Tucker, Shayne Owen, RyanMcDermott, Blake Gulley, TomLibby, Bobbi Loran, TimThomas The Wichita Falls PRCA would like to extend a big “THANK YOU” to everyone that makes this event such a success. Stock contractors: Hi Lo ProRodeo and Coy Thompson Rodeo secretary: JennieMurray Officials: Glenn Sullivan and Travis Howe Timers: Bonnie Kelly and JennieMurray Announcer: Garrett Yerigan Specialty act: Stutzy Stutzman Bullfighters: Jake Geiger and Joshua Hernandez Clown/barrelman: Stutzy Stutzman Flankmen: Khakie Holland and Travis Adams Chute bosses: DustinMurray and SamKelly Pickupmen: Tel Honeycutt and Justin Pender Music director: Dakota Riggin Photographer: Bobby Rosales Rodeo Results Bareback riding: 1. Yance Day, 84 points onHi Lo ProRodeo's Square Bale Steer wrestling: 1. Cade Goodman, 3.3 seconds Team roping: 1. Cash Duty/Clay Futrell, 4.1 seconds Saddle bronc riding: 1. (tie) Logan Cook, onHi Lo ProRodeo's Jojo, and Gus Gaillard, onHurst &TNT Pro Rodeo's Crossroads, 82 points Tie-down roping: 1. (tie) Tanner Green, Monty Lewis, MesquiteMahaffey and Cooper Mathews, 8.8 seconds Barrel racing: 1. Rainey Skelton, 14.95 seconds Bull riding: 1. TrevorKastner, 84points onHi LoProRodeo's SwampGhost All Around: Tanner Green, tie-down roping and team roping

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940.636.1383 Katelyn Bashford 940.636.7719 702.481.2711 Kim Roark Katie Ford 23 hometown living at its best

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HOMETOWN Happenings

27 hometown living at its best The Arts Council Wichita Falls is pleased to once again showcase the artwork of talentedmembers of theWichita Falls Art Association, (WFAA) in their juried exhibit entitled “This Is What Love Looks Like.” The WFAA is a Member Organization of the Arts Council and is a forumfor visual artists of all types. The Art Association also has a gallery of their own and it is located at 600 8th Street in downtownWichita Falls. The gallery is open from10:00amto 5:00 pmTuesday through Saturday. They also host a membership meeting and program, at the Kemp Center located 1300 Lamar, at noon on the third Wednesday of eachmonth. Guests are always welcome at their meetings! Best of Show- “Frida Kahlo” by Paula Savage 1st Place - “Comanche Warrior” by Paula Savage 2nd Place - “The Apple of His Eye” by Becky Reeder 3rd Place - “ABirthday Gift for a Sister” by Catherine Stringfellow Honorable Mention - “Mickey the Bull” by Cheryl Hazelton Honorable Mention - “Water Me” by Audra Miller WICHITA FALLS ART ASSOCIATION Members' Exhibit

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32 wichita falls living BUNDLES OF Joy HOMETOWN 2 1 3 4 5 6 7

SUPPORT BUILT FOR THE FUTURE. 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 The Crossvine Support Team is built with the future in mind. Our team is comprised of individuals with many diverse backgrounds and expertise, including management, banking, marketing, design, insurance, education, and more. This collective of professionals was meticulously selected to represent Crossvine, not just for their experience, but also their character and how they align with our core values. We take great pride in scouting talented professionals and ensuring that our team, our firm, and our client’s future is supported for generations to come. For more about our team or to inquire about a future with Crossvine, visit: crossvine.nm.com

36 wichita falls living WRITTEN BY CINDY KAHLER THOMAS PHOTOS COURTESY OF MIKE JOHNSON AND MEMBERS OF THE PATRIOT GUARD RIDERS PATRIOT GUARD Riders North Texas patriots celebrate heroes’ safe arrival home, and escort those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to their final resting place.

37 hometown living at its best IIf youhave ever seena funeral procession led by men and women riding motorcycles with American flags attached to their bikes, you have had the pleasure of seeing Patriot Guard Riders accompanying a veteran or first responder to their final resting place. Ride Captain Gene DeBord said, “They are patriots that love America, love veterans, and love first responders. We do themall.” Geneestimates that thereareabout 20Patriot Guard Riders (PGR) members in theWichita Falls area. However, another Ride Captain, Mike Johnson, said there are over 400,000 members in the United States of America. The only prerequisite for membership is respect. Many riders are veterans themselves, and the brotherhood reminds themof good times in the military. Gene is a Vietnam veteran. Anyonecan joinwhether theyhavea motorcycle, or a vehicle. Vehicles carrymany of the flags and other staples like coolers with water. Gene doesn’t ride a motorcycle but provides support in other ways. “I set up the flags at the funeral home for the other riders. When the funeral starts, I take themdown andmove them to the cemetery and put them up again.” Gene joined after meeting Mike at a car show. “He explained what he did and I signed up for it,” Gene said. “I felt like veterans need to be honored. We didn’t get much coming out of Vietnam. At least we can give them a good send-off,” Gene shared.

38 wichita falls living Despite varying backgrounds, they are all united in goal. Mike said, “All kinds of people join the PGR. People that ride motorcycles, people that don’t, and people like me that have never been in the military. Anyone that desires to serve ourmilitary’s deceased, as well as police, firefighter and all first responders. The first responders are included because they put their lives on the line every day,” Mike explained. “They are heroes too.” There are four ride captains inWichita Falls. They are the ones that send out a call to local members whenthenational office reachesout. Familymembers can also request their presence outside the church or funeral home, or grave site by asking the funeral home to contact the PGR. That isn’t all they do. They also welcome home service men and women by meeting them at the airport—both fallen and alive. Showering the living with praise, they make two lines on either side of the door so that the soldier knows pure appreciationwhenwalking through the Patriot Guard Riders, who are each holding a large American flag. He or she knows they are loved as they are welcomed back home. When caskets come home, they do the same thing honoring the veteran who has made the ultimate sacrifice.

39 hometown living at its best TOP LEFT: JimRobinson, Paul Spangler, Eddie Golleher, and Bob Hewchert LEFT: Gene Zeilvogel TOP: JimRobinson flag line TOP RIGHT: George Shaver aw ABOVE: Susie Hope “We did one that was very meaningful to me, and a lot of us,” Mike said. “A young lady contacted us, and her dad was a Vietnamvet, and you know how they were treated when they came home the first time, well hewas on what they call a remembrance trip toVietnam. It is where they get to go see the places where they served in Vietnam and occasionally, they get tomeet some of the people that they helped or worked with back then. Well, she askedwhat we could do towelcome himback home. So, we met him at the airport. There were a bunch of flags up and a bunch of us there. When he came in, he got an ovation and the news channels were there. He was crying, she was crying, we were crying. We put flags on our motorcycles and accompanied them from the airport to their house,” Mike said nostalgically.

40 wichita falls living Another Patriot Guard Rider is Cliff Harney. He has a PT Cruiser that is patriotic to say the least. It is red, white and blue, resembling the American flag inside and out. It has flags attached to the back and a large eagle is painted under the hood. He also has a trailer with veterans’ names on it. Harney doesn’t stop there; he has a large sign memorializing the names of veterans, and is working on filling up a second sign. The signs can be set up at the funeral homes and cemeteries.

The PGR was formed in 2005 by American Legion units. At that time, there was a church protesting at funerals all over the country. They were protesting the Iraq war and certain political agendas. The groupwas very upsetting for families and friends of the deceased. The PGR came to the rescue of those families—creating lines of riders with flags to block the protesters from their disruption. It was a testimony to the Lord’s ability to prevail with good amidst the bad. The church has since disbanded but the PGR is still going strong, adding members every year, and comforting distraught families of heroes. Mike said, “Sometimes we have to fold the flag if the military isn’t going to be there, and we play a recording of taps. Normally we like the military to do it; they are better at it. However; to be frank, sometimes the family doesn’t want the military to be present,” Mike said. The PGR are always there to do what they can. The PGR is a 100 percent volunteer, nationwide 501C-3 nonprofit organization. According to the national website, “Our mainmission is to attend the funerals of fallenAmerican heroes as invited guests of the family. Eachmission we undertake has two basic objectives; to show our sincere respect for the fallen heroes, their families and communities; and to shield mourning families and friends frominterruptions by any protestors or groups of protestors. We achieve the latter by strictly legal and non-violent means. For those of you currently serving either here or abroad, please know that we are backing you. We honor and support you with every mission we take, and we are praying for a safe return for all." “They are gone, but we live on,” Mike said, “The Patriot Guard has a legacy.” For more information on involvement or requests, visit patriotguard.org. † Gene DeBord, Mike Berry, George Shaw, and Mike Johnson About the Author Cindy Kahler Thomas is an artist and journalist. She likes bright colors and positive people. She has won both local and regional prizes for her artwork, and local prizes for her journalism. She counts her faith and her family as her greatest assets.

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44 wichita falls living ALEXANDER MOUNTAIN photos provided by the mountain family WHERE DO YOU LIVE? Iowa Park, Texas ALEXANDER MOUNTAIN, 13 PARENTS: RODNEY AND JENNIFER MOUNTAIN HOWLONGHAVE YOU BEENA PART OF THE PROGRAMS AND OPPORTUNITIES PROVIDED BYWICHITA COUNTY 4-H? 4 years 4-H Spotlight WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE AND LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT PARTICIPATING IN 4-H? My favorite part is getting to travel new places with my horse and try new things. The hardest thing is getting up really early for shows and having to get everything ready. 4-H CLUB Wichita County Horse Club WHAT 4-HACTIVITIES ARE YOU INVOLVED IN? Equestrian events HOWHAS BEING A PART OF 4-H PROGRAMS PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE/GOALS? It taughtme toworkhard. It also taughtme to care for horses. I have also learned how to teach other kids.

45 hometown living at its best WHY IS BEING IN 4-H IMPORTANT TO YOU? It is important because it gives me chances to go to shows, travelthestate,andlearnmoreaboutmyhorse. WHATWOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THINKING ABOUT JOINING 4-HTO PERSUADE THEMTO JOIN? You get to work hard and play hard while learning new skills. 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. OTHER GROUPS/ORGANIZATIONS YOU’RE INVOLVED IN? I ride with the show team for Whispers of Hope Horse Farm and work as a barn volunteer and riding volunteer there. Ihavevolunteeredover300hoursper year there the last 2 years and hope to do that again thisyear. I lovehelpingtoteachnewchallengedriders how to ride independently. WHO IS YOURMENTOR? MaryElizabethPearce ismy instructor. KirstenPolk, Ella Dora, and Eliana Ward are all 4-Hmembers who have also helped me to learn to do better at 4-H and Special Olympics equestrian events. WHAT TODO YOUWANT TODOWHEN YOU GROWUP? ORWHERE DO YOUWANT TO GO TO COLLEGE ANDWHATWILL YOU STUDY? I don’t knowwhat I want to be yet. I think I would like to study horses and work as a veterinarian.

46 wichita falls living TELL US A FUNNY STORY ABOUT SOMETHING THATHAPPENEDWHILE CARING FOR YOUR ANIMAL OR DURING A COMPETITION. Just one week before the 2021 state 4-H competition I brokemyarm. Iwas scared that Iwouldnot beallowed to compete, but I didn’t giveupand I got a ribbonat the show. I learned to never give up. WHAT ARE YOURHOBBIES/INTERESTS? Horses are my favorite, but I also like video games, Legos, and model trains. I started riding horses at Whispers ofHopeHorseFarmwhen Iwas 7-years-old. I was in the challenged rider classes and was there for therapy. I loved riding my horse and was asked to go to my first show that year. I rode in the challenged rider class and had fun with my team. When I was 9-years-old I was old enough to help work at the barn andstartedvolunteering too. Because Iwasat thebarn and lotsof the junior volunteerswere in4-H, I decided to join 4-H. Participating in 4-H events allowedme to do more things with my horse by myself. I got more confident working in the barn, I got better at riding, and I got better at showing because of 4-H shows and competitions. I ama junior volunteer atWhispers ofHopenowand I get tohelp teachother challenged riders. I’mlearning tobesupportiveandpatientwhenI teachother riders. My favorite volunteer job isworking at summer camp and teaching horse anatomy. I reallylikegoingto4-Hhorseshows, SpecialOlympics, and other area horse shows. WORDS OFWISDOM: Showing horses can be hard. Just keep trying and the next showwill be better.

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49 hometown living at its best Oswald, Wichita Falls area resident Mike

50 wichita falls living Serve CarolWagner: Called to WRITTEN BY SABRINA FORSE PHOTOS BY LA SAUNDERS MEDIA

51 hometown living at its best Long-time Wichita Falls resident builds bridges in the community through a lifetime of service. TThe Bridge Builder poem has been reprinted multiple times, etched on plaques andmonuments, and used as words of encouragement by motivational speakers. Each year, The Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation recognizes a communitymember who best represent the poem’s narrative. The 2022 Bridge Builder award recipient is Carol Wagner. Wagner has cultivated a life that epitomizes the spirit of Dromgoole’s poem. “Carol embodies the spirit of volunteerism and commitment to the community. She has been involved in so many aspects of Wichita Falls that not just impacted the moment in time when she was involved but continue to impact the community today,” said Leslie Schaffner, President of the Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation. Honored yet surprised by the recognition, Carol Wagner claims she is just one of Wichita Fall’s countless volunteers. “There are somany worthy recipients and tireless volunteers. Wichita Falls is a city with a strong Christian influence where people care about their neighbors,” said Wagner. For Wagner, the desire to serve others is inherent. “The pattern of volunteerismwas definitely set through the example of my parents. They loved their neighbors whether they were next door or around the world,” said Wagner. “The commandment to love your neighbor certainly does include the person next door but also includes the entire community which was made in God’s image.” Wagner moved to Wichita Falls in 1958. She taught at Wichita Falls High School four years and then stayed home to raise her children. She returned to the classroom over the years including a stint at Midwestern State University and another four years at Wichita Falls High School. “There are a few gaps in my teaching career. I would consider myself a community volunteer,” said Wagner.

Wagner’s first volunteer effort inWichita Falls started in 1964. “An acquaintance of mine was active in the March of Dimes and asked me to chair the door-to-door city wide campaign. We had just adopted our first child, so I prayed about it and decided to do it. Then during the campaign, we adopted our second child, so I was a busy young woman.” Since then, Wagner has served withmore than sixty organizations. At the time of service, she was the first woman in Wichita Falls history to serve three terms on City Council (1978-1983) She was serving as mayor protem during the 1979 tornado. “The children and I had just returned from a spring break trip in Austin. My husband greeted us and said, ‘Let’s go to eat.’ We were on the phone with the restaurant when the line went dead. We turned on the tv only to find it wasn’t working either. We soon learned the tornado hit and we quickly set out to volunteer. It was an incredible amount of time, effort and prayer to assist a city that was very hurt at the time.” In addition to Wichita Falls City Council, Wagner has served on numerous city commissions concerning traffic safety, human relations, fine arts and more. “I was the only woman up to that time to chair a regional planning commission. The Nortex Regional Planning Commission serves eleven counties and addresses projects at the state and federal levels. I was able to work closely with county judges and came to appreciate how work is done for the community at a county level.” Wagner has also served with the Boys and Girls Club of Wichita Falls, Friends of Kell House, Wichita Christian School, Symphony Women’s League, Texas Joint Council of Teachers of English, BeaconLighthouse for the Blind and countless other organizations. 52 wichita falls living

“The pattern of volunteerism was definitely set through the example of my parents. They loved their neighbors whether they were next door or around the world.” - Carol Wagner LIFETIME OF SERVICE - ORGANIZATIONS THAT WAGNER HAS SERVED American Association of University Women American Medical Association Auxiliary American Psychiatric Association Auxiliary American Red Cross Association of Junior League Sustainer Board Beacon Lighthouse for the Blind Bicentennial Commission Boys and Girls Club of Wichita Falls Centennial Commission Center for Volunteer Leadership Development Children’s Home Christ Prison Ministry City of Wichita Falls Activities Center Clavier Club County Judge’s Redistricting Commission Crockett Elementary P.T.A. Design Review/Landmark Commission Edgemere Church of Christ Faith Refuge Fine Arts Commission Advisory Foster Home Program of Family Court Services Friends of Kell House • Goals for Wichita Falls Good Time Singers Great Books Association • Human Relations Commission Junior Great Books of Wichita Falls Legal Auxiliary • March of Dimes Mayor’s Redistricting Commission Mayor’s Blue Ribbon Activities Center Development Commission Mayor’s Commission on the Status of Women Midwestern State University President’s Excellence Circle Nortex Regional Planning Commission North Texas Mental Health Center North Texas Medical Foundation Operation Brainpower (U. of T.) Spring Fling Steering Committee Symphony Women’s League Texas Association of Regional Councils Texas Ex-Students’ Association Texas Joint Council of Teachers of English Texas Medical Association Alliance Texas Municipal League • Traff ic Safety Commission Transportation Commission United Way • Volunteer Action Committee Volunteer Services Council of the State Hospital Wichita Christian School Admissions Committee Wichita County Child Welfare Board Wichita County Heritage Society • Wichita County Medical Alliance Wichita County Medical Society Wichita County Mothers March on Birth Defects Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation Wichita Falls City Council Member (3 terms) & Mayor Pro-Tem Wichita Falls Junior League Wichita Falls Museum and Art Center Wichita Falls Symphony Orchestra Wichita Falls Youth Chorale Parents’ Club Wichita General Hospital • Y.M.C.A. Tri-Hi-Y Board +Many More!

“ You are wasting your strength with building here; Your journey will end with the ending day, You never again will pass this way; You’ve crossed the chasm, deep and wide, Why build this bridge at evening tide?” The builder lifted his old gray head; “Good Friend, in the path I have come,” he said, “There followed after me to-day, a youth whose feet must pass this way. This chasm that has been as naught to me To that fair-haired youth may a pitfall be; He, too, must cross in the twilight dim; Good friend, I am building this bridge for him!” Excerpt from The Bridge Builder, poem by Will Allen Dromgoole 54 wichita falls living

“I will always depend on God to show me if there is anything else I can still do to enrich our area.” - Carol Wagner Wagner doesn’t only volunteer, she leads by example and encourages others to do so as well. As president of the Junior League, Wagner was able to connect and train new community volunteers. “TheUnitedWay began a new program called Volunteer Leadership Development and I was the first director of that program. It’s now housed at Midwestern State University and is called the Center for Nonprofit Management and Leadership. It’s a wonderful place for people to make inquiries about volunteer needs and get training.” When deciding which projects to take on next, Wagner asks the Lord for direction. “I was not looking for something else to dowhenFaith Refuge began to materialize. I was invited to be a part of it and as always, I prayed about it first. I was led in that direction, and it’s been an amazing experience to be a part of. The Faith Refuge offers housing, education and training for homeless women and children,” said Wagner. “I will always depend on God to show me if there is anything else I can still do to enrich our area.” The Bridge Builder Award is the latest in a multitude of honors. Wagner was inducted into the North Texas Women’s Hall of Fame for her contributions to volunteerism. She even received a Special Citation from the German Air Force for distinguished service in support of their program in America. You can also read about Wagner in the Museum of North Texas History’s book, Women of Wichita County, Stories about Remarkable Women. “I have encouraged volunteerism as a way of life and that is probably the accomplishment of which I’m most proud.” † About the Author Sabrina Forse is a freelance writer who truly believes that everyone has a story. She loves nothingmore than discovering the unique histories and passions of those she is writing about. As a former television news producer, she understands how important breaking news can be but enjoys finding the small moments in a life that can narrate a person’s journey or showcase the heart of an organization or community. Sabrina graduated fromTexas TechUniversity and has called both Lubbock and San Angelo home in different parts of her journey.

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As we enter our second century, we look to the vast horizon of limitless possibilities for our institution and our students. And we do so with a Spirit Always Bold. 63 hometown living at its best

BY DON THOMPSON DOAN’S CROSSING GAINED A PLACE IN COWBOY LORE, AND LIVES THERE STILL. THE SMALL SETTLEMENT that Shaped Texas 64 wichita falls living

IIf you drive 12 miles north of Vernon on Hwy283, past theairport andNorthsideSchool, a couple of miles further will bring you to a small green highway sign that says “Doans.” Turn right on that road and continue a couple of miles, and you’ll come to a crossroad amid small groves of trees. A small stucco building sits on the left with a few large pecan trees. The paved road ends, a dirt road going into private property begins, and you must turn right onto another road to continue. With a closer look youmight notice a monument in front of the little building. Another look, and more monuments can be seen at the side of the building and across the road. It is a quiet, peaceful area with no traffic for hours, so what would justify so many historical markers at this quiet little spot? Aside from descendants of the people who settled here, or local residents, most people have no idea this little building played an essential role in Texas history. At the end of the Civil War the economy of Texas, like most southern states, was in ruins. Texans needed to find a way out of the devastating financial aftermath. The answer was found in beef, a resource in demand in the northern states. Texas Longhorns had roamed free and grew to number in the millions. Cattle that were worth only $1 to $2 a head in Texas could be sold for $20 to $40 a head in the north. 65 hometown living at its best

DOAN'S CROSSING IN THE 1880s The first and second Doan's Store buildings stand together in the center of the Doan's community scene. The family's adobe house located nortwest of the store is the forward house on the right. But howwould Texans get the cattle to the markets? There were no railheads connecting Texas to themeat processing plants inSt. Louis and Chicago. The solution was to round up large herds of the Longhorns and drive them north across Texas and Indian Territory, to the nearest rail lines in Kansas. The era of the cowboy was born. In1865, JesseChisholmforgedtheChisholm Trail that went from central Texas to Abilene, Kansas. This trail was used until 1874, when Captain John T. Lytle left Texas with 3,500 head of Longhorn cattle, and went up further west of the ChisholmTrail. This route became known as the Great Western Trail—by far the most important trail after 1876. The Western Trail crossed the Red River about 12 miles north of Vernon. By 1879 the route Lytle cut out of the prairie from south Texas to Ogallala, Nebraska had become the most significant cattle trail in history. The Western Trail was longer in length and carried herds two years longer than the Chisholm. The Western was used almost exclusively from 1879 to 1885, with the last reported drive in 1893. With all these cattle drives going north and crossing the Red River, the cowboys driving the herds needed supplies: bacon, beans, coffee, flour, salt, tobacco, guns, ammo, and Stetson hats. JonathanDoan heard about opportunities in the south and left Ohio in 1874 with his nephew, Corwin Doan, and operated a trading company at Cache Creek, near Fort Sill in Indian Territory. In 1876, Corwin became ill andwent back toOhio to recover, but Jonathan stayed to prospect for a location for another trading post. The Indians recommended they move to Texas near a shallow water crossing on the Red River that was beginning to be used by herds being driven up the Western Trail. In April 1878, Jonathan came down to the area where the trail drivers crossed the herds over the Red River. Jonathan founded Doan’s Store, and the area became known as Doan’s Crossing. CorwincamebacktoTexas,arrivingatDoan’s Store in October 1878 with his wife, Lide, and infant daughter, Bertha. Johnathan’s children, Maje Doan, Mrs. R. R. Wheatley, and Mrs. Eva Brazil, and brother, Calvin Doan also came. Bertha was the first white child in Wilbarger 66 wichita falls living

County. She learnedtheComanche language, and the “white papoose” that could speak Comanche was a source of amusement to the Indians. 100,000 cattle passed by the store in 1879. At that time the first building inDoan’s was a “picket house” with a dirt floor and roof. That first winter a buffalo hide was the door. The store was at one end and the family lived in the other end. Around 1880, a small adobe house was built. This is the little building still standing atthecrossroadnorthofVernon,nowcovered in stucco to preserve the adobe bricks. By that time there were 126 people living in the area, and the post office opened with Corwin as the postmaster. Quanah Parker and his Comanche followers visited the Doan family frequently, as did Lone Wolf, Chief of the Kiowas. The following year, the Doan’s bigger house was built. Corwinwrote “Governors, English lords, bankers, lawyers, tramps, and people from every walk of life have found sanctuarywithin its walls.” The trail reached it’s peak that year when 301,000 head passed by on the way to the Kansas shipping points. Doan's Store around 1880 67 hometown living at its best

68 wichita falls living

WITH ALL THESE CATTLE DRIVES GOING NORTH AND CROSSINGTHE RED RIVER,THE COWBOYS DRIVING THE HERDS NEEDED SUPPLIES: BACON, BEANS, COFFEE, FLOUR, SALT, TOBACCO, GUNS, AMMO, AND STETSON HATS. 69 hometown living at its best

In 1884, on the first Saturday in May, Corwin, Lide and daughter Bertha, with three ladies whose husbands had gone up the trail, had a picnic in a grove of trees nearby. Themenu for the first picnic was sardines and crackers. They had such a good time they decided to continue having a picnic the first Saturday in May every year. Today, the first Saturday inMay is still picnic day. It continues to be held at the old adobe house, and is the longestrunning continually held festival in Texas. The Doan’s settlement reached its peak in 1885, when 300 people lived in the town, which consisted of a two-story hotel, a restaurant, the Cow Boy Saloon, a drug store, the Bar X Supply House, awagonyard, branding pens, twelve houses, and several families that lived in half-dugouts in the hills surrounding the townsite. An estimated total of 6 million longhorns and 1 million horses crossed at Doan’s on the way to Dodge City and further north. The store, the crossing, and the community all gained a place in cowboy lore. AN ESTIMATED TOTAL OF 6 MILLION LONGHORNS AND 1 MILLION HORSES CROSSED AT DOAN’S ON THE WAY TO DODGE CITY AND FURTHER NORTH. THE STORE, THE CROSSING, AND THE COMMUNITY ALL GAINED A PLACE IN COWBOY LORE. TOP LEFT: Doan's displey in the Vernon museum ABOVE: Doan's adobe in 2021 CENTER : Doan's display in the Vernon museum TOP RIGHT: Doan's adobe with west annex FAR RIGHT: Queens court in 1911 70 wichita falls living

Doan’s Crossing lives on in literature, movies and television. It is mentioned in “Lonesome Dove” and most recently in the television series “1883.” There is an excellent display about Doan’s Crossing in the Red River Valley Museum, on the campus at Vernon College. Themuseumholds a special place inmy heart because a photo is featured of theMay Day Picnic in 1911, showing the little girls in the Queen’s Court when they crowned the first May Day Queen. My Grandmother, Ola Eatmon, as a ten-year old girl, is prominent in the photo. If you want to understand more about this place that holds such an important role in the history of Texas, drive out to the quiet little crossroads northof Vernon. Stand there for a moment, close your eyes, and imagine how it must have been when thousands of cattle were lined up to cross the Red River, with dust stirred up by the milling herds, the lowing of the cattle, and cowboys going in the store mailing a letter home before crossing into Indian Territory. † The information for this story was sourced from the personal history records of Don Thompson, the author and descendant of Doan’s Crossing settlers. 71 hometown living at its best

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73 hometown living at its best • • •

This was not just any Ribbon Cutting, this business is operated by the youngest member in Wichita Falls Chamber History! bigail Cardona, 17, opened her bakery “In The Mix” earlier this year and celebrated her RibbonCutting on July 13, 2022. Abigail has been baking since age 8 and knew she wanted to make a business of it right away. “When I was small, I use to have special “cupcake” dateswithmymomat the local cupcake business. I loved being able to do that, and wanted to be the one that created a business just like it.” Hermother, being forward thinking, took advantage of her flexible homeschool curriculum. “Over the years, mymomhadme do school projects that focused around starting a food business,” Abigail said. “She hadmewrite business plans, we did pricing on things that would be needed to open and learned how businesses work. A RIBBON CUTTING to Remember 74 wichita falls living

Finally, when I turned 16, in 2020, I asked onemore time if I could start a cupcake business andmymom said, “Sure let's do it!” I made sure I knew cottage law front to back, and started booking anyvendor space I could find. It never occurred tome that Iwas “too young” to start my own business, I just knew I was doing what I loved and what I was passionate about. I loved sharing that with other people. It actually confusedme when people started making a big deal about me being so young. It just never occurred to me. I always just saw myself as another business owner.” In The Mix was born in October of 2020 as a small cottage cupcake business. Itquicklymorphedintomuch more than cupcakes and went on to include cookies, candies, cinnamon rolls, brownies, hot chocolate bombs and a lot more. At first they set up at vendor events in the area, and eventually became a weekly vendor at our local Farmers Market before we opened our storefront. Abigail said the most rewarding part of opening a small business 75 hometown living at its best

has been getting to see the smiles on people’s faces when they try a dessert, and making new friends that have become like family. The most challenging aspect of operations thus far have been rotating her menu. “We want our customers to have a new experience every week that they come in, so we add to our menu every week,” she said. Abigail’s goals for In The Mix are both operational and inspirational. She hopes to open a commercial kitchen, which will allow her tooffer amorediversemenu. Community is also very important to her. She said, “Our goal is also tobuild communitywithour customers, our fellowsmall business owners, and those in our city and surrounding areas. I also want to build a business that is not only a blessing to me as a business owner, but to our community aswell.We have started thatwithour “blessing board”. It is a way for our customers to pay it forward to those thatmight need it. Customers can come in and purchase a blessing coupon, hang it on our board, and if someone comes in and is in need, they can take a blessing with no questions asked.” Join us in congratulating this outstanding young entrepreneur! Abigail’s Favorites: Pies and pumpkin sopapilla cheesecake cookies 76 wichita falls living

77 hometown living at its best

78 wichita falls living

79 hometown living at its best

Ingredients: • 1 gallon apple cider • 1 bottle sparkling cider (25.4 oz) • 2 ginger beers (12 oz bottles) • 1 juice of lime Instructions: 1. Place all ingredients in a large punch bowl or pitcher and stir well. 2. Serve over ice cubes and garnish with apple and orange slices. Note: The longer the cinnamon stick and star anise pod sit in the liquid the more flavor they will provide. APPLE CIDER PUNCH Sparkling This beverage is perfect for your fall entertaining! Made with or without alcohol, your guest will enjoy this Spakling Apple Cider Punch! • 1 cinnamon stick • 1 whole star anise pod • bourbon (optional) • apple and orange slices (optional garnish) 80 wichita falls living

81 hometown living at its best

82 wichita falls living

83 hometown living at its best

84 wichita falls living BY TAYLOR GRIMM Western fashion and funding for Cancer Research. 2022 CATTLE BARON'S Ball Style Show

86 wichita falls living he 2022 Cattle Baron’s Ball Style Show was held Thursday, September 8th at The Warehouse event venue in Wichita Falls. With 235 tickets sold, the dinner and fashion show had an amazing turnout. Several local businesses, andmany community members had a hand in bringing this night to fruition. Co-Chair of the 2022 Cattle Baron’s Ball, Lindsay Arias said all proceeds from the Style Show will benefit The American Cancer Society, to fund local programs, outreach education, and research. The event also allows for important emotional support. Lindsay said, “We want to continue to support those that are fighting this disease and events like Cattle Baron’s Ball Style Show allow us to spotlight and honor these warriors while working towards a cure.” Local boutiques put outfits together and volunteer models, but Style Show CoChairs also reach out to local survivors and those currently battling to invite them to model. She said, “It really is a team effort and such a special night! Not only do our local boutiques get involved, but we have some talented local hair and makeup stylists that volunteer their time to ensure cancer survivors and warriors are looking their best!” While the Style Show is all about fun and fashion, Lindsay said there is usually not a dry eye in the house when you start hearing what these amazing people overcome. Seeing these warriors shine is her favorite part of the event. “They have all endured so much that it’s just so special to give them a chance to have fun and share their story,” she said. Wichita Falls Cattle Baron’s Ball events are only held every other year, so, because of the COVID-19 pandemic there hasn’t been one since 2018! Lindsay said, “We are very excited to be back for 2022 and this year marks the 30th Cattle Baron’s Ball for the Wichita Falls community." The Cattle Baron’s Ball Gala & Auction will be October 29 at the J.S. Bridwell Ag Center and includes an amazing cowboy cuisine dinner from Eddie Deen Catering, plus live and silent auctions, games, raffles, live concert with Reckless Kelly and an after-party band, Forte. You can learnmore at wfcattlebarons.org.†

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