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14 CENTER STAGE Discipline, passion, and performance come together as WFBT is spotlighted among the nation’s best. 22 HOMETOWN BUNDLES Join us in welcoming our newest (and cutest) residents 26 A HOME FOR HEALING Joe’s Place stands as a reminder that even from tragedy, hope and healing can still grow. 32 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Debutante Ball 38 STILL PLAYING, STILL REMEMBERING From playing for U.S. troops during Vietnam to mentoring young musicians, Johnny Divine’s career has been defined by music, community, and heart. 46 4-H SPOTLIGHT Learn about 4-H’er Amanda Kersbergen and her experiences competing in wildlife, ag production ID and more. 52 ART WALK REVIVAL The Downtown Art Walk was in danger of becoming obsolete, but city leaders worked together to save the beloved event. 60 CHRISTMAS DECORATING TIPS Browse through some designer tips to get your home holiday ready. 64 WHERE CLAY, COLOR AND CALLING COME TOGETHER Carol Castro found her calling in the ceramics business after taking a leap of faith and following her passion. 72 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Junior League of Wichita Falls New Member Orientation 74 PIECES OF THE PAST From cowboy culture and oil booms to family heirlooms and community legends, the Museum of North Texas History keeps local stories alive for future generations. Contents On the Cover 4 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group 14 26 32 38 52 64
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8 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group Wichita Falls Living Magazine© is published quarterly by Hometown Media Group hometownmedia.group 502 N Main 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 Reanna Gonzalez Cindy Kahler Thomas Becca Nelson Sankey PHOTOGRAPHERS RB Photography Weber Filrose MEDIA GROUP HOMETOWN H …And just like that, 2026 is looming in the rearview mirror with the new year quickly approaching. In a world of instant gratification and where I try teaching my children that it’s ok to wait, to live in the present and to appreciate stillness, it is something that I have been trying to be more mindful of for myself as well. I find myself always looking ahead to the next milestone, the next holiday, the next vacation, the next ‘big’ thing and while doing so, the days that I am in are slowly slipping away, each one a little sand in the hourglass of my life that I will never get back. My goal for the rest of this year is to practice what I preach. To really savor each moment of the end of the year and to not get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life. I encourage you to do the same. Take a little time right now to browse through these pages and read about fellow community members who are making it a point to appreciate life, in seasons both busy and still. People like Johnny Divine, a local musician who has spent his career turning ordinary moments into memories, city leaders and the effortless work they put in to reviving the beloved Downtown Art Walk and this issue’s batch of baby bundles, because there is nothing like a sweet newborn to remind you to appreciate the little things. As always, a huge thank you to our advertising partners, as they help us tell the stories between these pages. Have a newborn of your own to share? A story to tell? A person who deserves to be highlighted in a future issue? An event we should cover? Advice on slowing down and living in the moment? Email me at Brooke@hometownmedia.group. I would love to hear from you! Blessings, COVER PHOTO Eli, Parents: Evan & Sarah Parker Photo by Jenna LaRue Photography Brooke Graham Marketing & Client Relations brooke@hometownmedia.group Casey Perkins Executive Publisher Susan Avery Lead Creative Design Kayla Durham Sales Account Executive kayla@hometownmedia.group Haley Ragsdale Social Media Editor Camela Dietrich Accounts Receivable accounting@hometownmedia.group It ’s Fall Y’all! Brooke Graham Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails. ~ Proverbs 19:21
9 hometown living at its best YOUR FAMILY. YOUR SMILE. OUR PASSION. Looking for a caring and experienced team of dental professionals? We are here for you. We are here for you. For 45 years, we’ve been honored to care for generations of families, creating healthy, beautiful smiles across Texoma. At The Art of Dentistry, you’ll discover what sets us apart from the moment you arrive. Our experienced team is committed to making you feel right at home, caring for you and your family as if you were our own. With decades of combined expertise, we pride ourselves on finding solutions when others can’t. From routine checkups to advanced treatments, we provide a comprehensive range of services under one roof, making your dental care both comfortable and convenient. We always welcome new patients. Whether you are new to Wichita Falls and the Texoma area, or simply seeking a better dental experience, we invite you to call our office at 940-691-6066 to learn more. Dr. Steve Burross and Dr. Chad Jackson 5 Eureka Circle, Suite A | Wichita Falls, TX 76308 | theartofdentistrywf.com
WFBT teaches classical ballet and takes pride in being rooted in that framework. “A past ballet master told me, ‘If you can do classical ballet, then you can do anything!’ and I really believe that is the framework and that everything blossoms from that,” Erin said. The focus of ballet of course, is technique, routine and steps, but Erin stresses that for her and her dancers, music should illicit some kind of emotion and they should be able to tell a story through their dances. “I tell my dancers, I want you to love technique, love classical ballet, but you have to dance with your heart.” For the leadership team, performance is about more than precision. It is about the ability to connect with an audience. “The performance and the joy for what the dancers are doing really make the difference, and that’s what they teach here. If you can teach joy, it is what the instructors give, what they nurture, what they inspire in our students; that joy and that passion, so they can go out and share that joy,” Abigail said. Audiences attending productions like The Nutcracker or Snow White can expect a high level of artistry. The performances are dynamic, engaging, and often infused with humor, making them accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of viewers. The Talent Performing
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• Latest clinical trials • Leading-edge technologies • Advanced treatments THE NATION’S LEADING TEAM OF CANCER EXPERTS IS YOURS TEXAS ONCOLOGY—WICHITA FALLS CANCER CENTER 5400 Kell West Blvd. Wichita Falls, TX 76310 T: 940-691-8271 TEXASONCOLOGY.COM 11 hometown living at its best
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T 14 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group Written by CINDY KAHLER THOMAS Photos by CINDY KAHLER THOMAS and provided by WICHITA FALLS BALLET THEATRE Discipline, passion, and performance come together as WFBT is spotlighted among the nation’s best. Center Stage The Wichita Falls Ballet Theatre is stepping onto a national stage after being featured on Bloomberg Network’s “World’s Greatest…!” an educational series by How to Media that highlights standout organizations across industries. Selected from thousands of candidates, the theatre’s inclusion marks a significant moment for the local arts community. Artistic Director, Erin Fike took the first call from the shows producers. “They said, ‘We had a pitch about a ballet school, and your name came up.’ I was a little apprehensive at first,” she admitted. After discussing it with Executive Director, Abigail Wignarajah, and Board President, Carolyn Bell, and vetting the company, they agreed and scheduled a phone interview that lasted almost two hours. Leading up to the call, they had been told to look at the opportunity like a job interview, “they told us to ‘Talk up your organization, but you also need to be able to back it up,’” Erin said. At the back end of the process, the network had researchers checking every detail. The conversation covered the theatre’s history, its founders, the training process, and the strength of its dancers. The call was successful, with the production company telling the group that they started out looking at over 2,000 ballet schools and had narrowed it down to 200, of which included the Wichita Falls Ballet Theatre. “We did our best, but we thought no way,” Abigail shared. “We had no way of knowing who we were up against, but we knew they had searched all over the country,” Erin added. The Call
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16 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group Just a few weeks later, they received emails saying they had been selected. But there was a caveat: they couldn’t tell the dancers. “We had to sit on it for a month because they were out of school, and we wanted to tell them when they were all together,” Erin said. Once the news was out, the dancers were elated, with one of them bursting into tears. When the production crew arrived, they captured interviews with key leadership, including Fike, Wignarajah, Assistant Artistic Director Becca Ferguson, and both current and past board presidents. Filming also included rehearsals for The Nutcracker, as well as classes featuring dancers at every level. For Fike and Wignarajah, it was important that the segment reflected the full scope of the organization. While senior dancers represent the pinnacle of training, they emphasized the The Selection Filming
17 hometown living at its best importance of showcasing younger students as well, highlighting the journey that begins at an early age. “The dancers carried it with a sort of pride, and it actually made them push harder. When they came to film, our dancers looked so good that day. I am really proud of what they brought to the table. They wanted to earn it,” Erin said. “The World’s Greatest…!” footage is being aired on the Bloomberg Network on Roku and Amazon Fire. It can also be viewed at WFBT.org, on their Facebook page, and on their Instagram. “It runs 3 and a half minutes, but what they were able to squeeze into that time frame is amazing,” Abigail said. How to Watch
19 hometown living at its best The company presents two main productions each year, alongside a Spring Showcase featuring students from the Dance Academy. In addition, the theatre participates in community events and outreach opportunities. For those interested in learning more, the organization offers resources on classes, including opportunities to try a session for free. As Wignarajah noted, watching the national feature may be all the inspiration a young dancer needs to take that first step. † Looking Ahead
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22 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group BUNDLES OF HOMETOWN Joy 8 12 11 9 10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
23 hometown living at its best 1. Harlyn | Parents: Colsen & Avery Welch 2. Allie | Parent: Allen & Leksi Martin 3. Haven | Parent: Garrett & Alaina Harshbarger 4. Archer | Parents: Jacob & Lauren Deges 5. Eli | Parents: Evan & Sarah Parker 6. August | Parents: Christian & McKenzie Ward 7. Adrien | Parents: Eduardo & Yanneli Sierra 8. Millie | Parents: Dominic & Adrianna Escamilla 9. Dax | Parents: Austyn & Makenna Jones 10. Briggs | Parents: Jason & Kori Hoffman 11. Wrenley | Parents: Amado & Maggie Clemente 12. Brooklyn | Parents: Mykel & Jennifer Ojeda 13. Lilly | Parents: Derek & Elaina Gage 14. Merritt | Parents: Bryce & Whitney Henderson 15. Zienna | Parents: Chukwudi & Clare Obiagwu 16. Nora | Parents: Evan Skinner & Tasha Burkybile Join us in welcoming Wichita Falls’ newest residents! Have your photographer share your sweet bundle with us for future issues, Brooke@hometownmedia.group. Photos by Jenna LaRue Photography 16 13 14 15
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26 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group Written by BECCA NELSON SANKEY | Photographed by JESSICA DEAN & JIMMY ADAMS A HOME FOR Joe’s Place stands as a reminder that even from tragedy, HEALING AND HOPE CAN STILL GROW. Healing
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28 wichita falls living OOn Valentine’s Day 2025, Joseph “Joe” Whalen and Jessica Dean sat in a tattoo shop, laughing and sharing stories like best friends do. By the end of the outing, they had matching tiny tattoos of dumpster fires, Dean’s with the words, “This little light of mine,” and Joe’s alongside the words “I’m gonna let it shine,” a tongue-in-cheek reference to their shared chaotic past and resilience. It was the last Valentine’s Day they would spend together. Whalen died by suicide less than six months later. Whalen struggled in ways that couldn’t always be seen by those around him. He was often the life of the party, the friend who could be counted on to wash cars at a fundraiser or help wherever he was asked. Inwardly, Whalen fought battles few knew about. Following his passing in July 2025, the grief was profound for his family, friends, and for Dean, who had spent years watching him struggle with addiction, relationships, and the systems meant to help him. “He came into my office [at Sober Living Incorporated] when he was struggling, and we just clicked,” Dean said of the first time they met. “He didn’t get [sober] at first, but he always showed up for everything. Anything I needed, he was there.” Dean founded Sober Living Incorporated in 2020, which was a nonprofit by 2022. When Dean was searching for a house for a men’s sober living home, the perfect place with the perfect backstory appeared. The owner’s husband, a man in recovery, insisted it be used for that very purpose. “I felt like that was God,” Dean said. “I drove down to Frisco, met with supporters, and we negotiated a deal that wasn’t traditional at all. They gave us the house for six months, and the community stepped up to help us get it ready.” Joe’s Place, as it would come to be known, became a tribute to Whalen and a sanctuary for others who were struggling. “Because Joe didn’t have a safe place to go, we created one,” Dean said. “We didn’t have the house ready when he needed it, and it was tragic. But we could honor him by giving others what he didn’t have.”
29 hometown living at its best Restoring the century-old house was no small feat. The place had served as a fraternity house and was run down. But the first thing Dean noticed when she walked through the home’s door was a picture of Jesus on the mantle. “One of my board members always points up to God and reminds me that it’s all part of the plan,” Dean said. “We had $3 in the bank the other day, and two days later, a $10,000 grant came in. God shows up every time.” Jimmy Adams, supervisor at Joe’s Place, has been involved since the very beginning. “I’ve done a lot of construction work and oversee the men trying to recover so they can actually get things done,” he said. “I’ve been to prison multiple times myself, and I have eight years clean. The men around here see that, and they see the new me. It inspires them to keep going.” A typical day at Joe’s Place begins at 6 a.m. with Scripture and a morning devotional. Adams leads discussions on challenges, personal growth, and how faith and accountability shape recovery. “We talk about Jesus and our problems, and how iron sharpens iron,” Adams said. “Some guys have never been in a halfway house or recovery program so this is new for them, but they engage and they learn.”
30 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group Residents are expected to be productive, whether through work or household responsibilities. Adams emphasizes practical support as well. “When they first come in, we help them get essentials: driver’s license, Social Security card, food stamps. We want them to have the tools to rebuild their lives,” he said. Faith plays a central role in recovery. For Adams, personally, it was essential, not just in maintaining his sobriety but in becoming a better person. “I had to confront my anger, my past mistakes, and how I was hurting my family,” he said. “Living a life grounded in faith allows me to stay sober and make better choices every day.” Classes and group meetings happen throughout the week at Joe’s, including Bible studies, in-house AA sessions, and community gatherings. “We require the classes, but we also allow men to keep their jobs and stay connected to their families. It’s about preparing them for life after recovery,” Adams said. Challenges are real and often intense. “The biggest challenge is asking for help and taking responsibility,” Adams said. “Coming off the streets or out of prison and suddenly having to follow rules, attend classes, and rebuild relationships is overwhelming for many. Some struggle with testing positive for substances, and we address it with accountability and support. I tell them, ‘Don’t come to me with problems; come with solutions.’” What sets Joe’s Place apart from other programs is its local focus. “Many other programs bring in people from across the state, but we focus on Wichita Falls,” Adams explained. “We want to improve our hometown.” As of May 2026, the month of its grand opening, Joe’s Place housed 10 to 12 residents, with room for a few more. The community has been integral in making it a reality. Volunteers helped restore the house, donate furniture, and provide mentorship. “It just came together,” Dean said. “I prayed, ‘God, if this is supposed to be a men’s place, show me.’ Then Jimmy Adams showed up. Everything fell into place.” Sunflowers, which adorned Whalen’s Facebook photo after his passing and were coincidentally part of the floral arrangement Dean brought to his funeral service, are now symbolic of Whalen and, thus, all things Joe’s Place. Opening Joe’s Place has been both a tribute and a challenge, but Dean said it is part of her purpose. “God didn’t bring me this far to leave me here,” she said with conviction. “Everything that’s happened; the house, the community support, even the struggles is all part of something bigger. Joe’s Place exists because of Him, and because of Him, we will continue to save lives.” As for what Whalen would think of a sober living home named in his honor, Dean said, “I think that he would be really proud of me for taking this pain that I have and turning it into a purpose and helping people like him.” †
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HOMETOWN Happenings
33 hometown living at its best BALL Hosted by the Progressive Women's Club, the 2026 Wichita Falls Debutante Ball was an elegant evening celebrating tradition, achievement, and the bright futures of young women in the community. Surrounded by family and friends, the debutantes were formally presented in a timeless ceremony recognizing their accomplishments, character, and commitment to serving others. The evening featured the traditional presentation of the debutantes, formal dances, and special moments shared with their families. The event honored the values of leadership, education, grace, and community involvement while celebrating an important milestone in each participant's life. For generations, the Progressive Women's Club has proudly hosted this cherished Wichita Falls tradition, bringing families together to recognize outstanding young women as they prepare for the next chapter of their lives. The annual Debutante Ball continues to be one of the community's most treasured events, celebrating the achievements and promise of its participants while honoring a tradition that has inspired generations of young women. Photos by Randall Barker Debutante
HOMETOWN Happenings
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38 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group Written by CINDY KAHLER THOMAS | Photos by CINDY KAHLER THOMAS and provided by JOHNNY DIVINE From playing for U.S. troops during Vietnam to mentoring young musicians, Johnny Divine’s career has been defined by music, community, and heart. Still Playing, Still Remembering
39 hometown living at its best JJohnny Divine is a local musician influenced, like so many musicians of his generation, by The Beatles. “My life changed in February 1964 when The Beatles appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show,” he said. “By 1965, I had a guitar in my hands.” In high school, he and two friends formed a band with a “name that seemed to change weekly.” The lineup didn’t. The dream didn’t either. “When I graduated in 1970, I became a professional musician,” he reminisces. During the height of the Vietnam era, he traveled to several military bases playing for U.S. troops. For four years, he performed for servicemen stationed far from home, which was an experience he still ranks among the proudest of his life. Johnny admired the lyrical craftsmanship of Jimmie Driftwood, whose album Newly Discovered Early American Folk Songs left a permanent mark on him. That record, Johnny says, set his musical expectations for life. Mainstream radio never quite satisfied him. He did play in bands and describes some of that music as “fluff.” While he respected giants like Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, Hank Williams, and Eric Clapton, he remained in constant tension between what audiences expected and what stirred his own creative spirit. Songwriting, above all else, became his anchor. “In 1970, I joined Daddy O, the best band I ever played in,” he shared. Over the decades, he performed with countless groups, including T Bone Road, Gary P Nunn, Triple Crown, and The Mammals, and opened for acts like Diamond Rio, 38 Special, and Pete Best (the first drummer for the Beatles). In 1992, Johnny founded Outback Studio, launching a 30-year run of recording local and regional artists. Among those connected to his studio were Bowling for Soup, a Grammynominated group, along with numerous Texas artists building careers one CD at a time. By having a recording studio, Johnny also found more time to spend with what would be the highlights of his life, his three sons: Mathew, James, and Mackey. Priceless.
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41 hometown living at its best His studio, though it has moved away from Wichita Falls, has become something more sacred: an archive of memory. He has nearly every recording that was made in Outback Studio. He keeps reels and recordings from decades past. “More than once, grieving families have called to say, ‘My loved one died, and we can’t find the copy of the song you recorded for him. We would love to play it at the funeral. Do you still have it?’ I am happy to tell them, ‘Yes, I do,’ and I make a digital copy for the family,” he said. In 2005, his musical career took on a new direction. “I went back to Burkburnett High School and taught guitar for a decade,” Johnny said. He laughs at the irony of teaching at the same school where he had once been just an average student, because his guitar distracted him from “regular studies”. Johnny now plays weekly at The Loft with his extended trio, also at Pioneer 3 by himself or sometimes with fellow musician Leisa Fudge, and at Hook & Ladder Wine Bar and regularly at venues across the region with his band. His current band, the Johnny Divine Trio, is often a five-piece band. The core “trio” features Johnny on guitar, Jeff Ayers on drums, and Brad Hammack on bass guitar. Joining them often are David Holcomb on fiddle and Rick Schwarz playing harmonica.
42 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group “Over the years, the most important thing wasn’t the music; it was my friends and family. I didn’t always like the songs I sang. And now with this band, I have put it together with that in mind. They believe in me, and we play songs that aren’t weird; they just aren’t mainstream,” he explained. Instead of chasing mainstream hits, they revive overlooked gems such as songs like Love Is All Around by The Troggs or Jambalaya by Hank Williams. “One older couple came up to tell me after I played Love Is All Around it was their favorite song in high school. They were so happy to hear it,” he said. Audiences often respond with surprise and ask, “When was that a hit?” Sometimes, it never was. That’s the point. For 35 years, Johnny played at Christmas parties for Work Services Corporation. The majority of the employees there are developmentally or physically handicapped. “What began as a small kitchen performance grew into a full-band where the kids, some in their 60s, danced, sang, and played guitars alongside me,” he shared. The hugs he received there remain among his most treasured rewards. He is especially tender toward individuals with disabilities; a sensitivity rooted in his father’s example and in family history. Of all his professional accomplishments, he says those years with Work Services Corporation and the four years playing for U.S. troops rank highest.
43 hometown living at its best In 2018, Johnny’s son James died suddenly. The loss left a permanent shadow. James had been working on a recording project and intended for his father to produce it. After his death, Johnny completed the unfinished material as a tribute. The ache remains. “The loss of James is a space nothing can fill,” Johnny said, and yet, he continues. He married Ann in 2020, and she brought a lot of happiness back into his life. Plus, Johnny still had his two sons Mathew, and Mackey, and his beautiful granddaughter Anna, to lift his spirits. Joy and grief now coexist. He still dreams of recording one more album, something jazzy and blues-infused. He still writes and hones his craft. He is also a member of the band at his church, Cowboy Church Gatherin’. And despite decades of performing, Johnny insists the most important part of the journey was never the music itself. It was the people. The troops, far from home. The Work Services employees who hugged him. The students who picked up guitars. The sons who filled his life with meaning. Songwriting remains his favorite part of the experience. He laughs that he never reached the heights of Dylan or Lennon and McCartney, but he keeps trying. And that, more than chart position or radio play, defines Johnny Divine. †
44 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group three state parks one adventure HQ Mineral Wells Plan your adventure @visitmineralwells
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AMANDA KERSBERGEN Photos provided by THE KERSBERGEN FAMILY 4-H SPOTLIGHT AGE: 17 PARENTS: James & Susan Kersbergen 4-H CLUB: Explorers 4-H WHERE DO YOU LIVE: Iowa Park HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED IN THE 4-H AND PROJECTS? This will be my 4th year involved in 4-H
WHAT 4-H ACTIVITIES ARE YOU INVOLVED IN? I am involved in Photography, Wildlife ID, Ag Product ID, and Consumer Decision Making. WHAT LEADERSHIP ROLES/COMMUNITY SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES DO YOU PARTICIPATE IN? I have participated in feeding the local homeless, volunteering at the Wildbird Rescue, teaching new members about the Wildlife ID competitions and leading practices, as well as taking on multiple officer roles within my club, and becoming both a county ambassador, and a State Photography Ambassador. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE AND LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOUR 4-H PROJECTS? My favorite thing about my projects is being able to learn, grow, and teach others while still participating. My least favorite thing would be all the driving it takes to get to competitions. HOW HAS BEING A PART OF 4-H PROGRAMS PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE? Being a part of 4-H has taught me a lot about being patient, and getting along with others, which is a prominent part of being in school and having a job. WHY IS BEING IN 4-H IMPORTANT TO YOU? Being in 4-H is important to me because it is an amazing opportunity to learn about myself, the people around me, and the world I live in. 47 hometown living at its best
WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THINKING ABOUT JOINING 4-H TO PERSUADE THEM TO JOIN? 4-H is a great way to learn about things you are interested in, anything from cooking and fashion show, to shooting sports and robotics! WHERE HAVE YOU COMPETED AND WHAT AWARDS HAVE YOU WON? I have competed in the State Fair multiple times, many other State competitions, as well as at District competitions and County competitions. I’m very proud of my 10th and 9th place ribbons from the State Fair of Texas, competing in Wildlife, as well as my multiple 1st place pictures in State and District competitions. I have also won multiple Reserve Champion awards at District Competitions competing in AG Product ID. OTHER GROUPS/ORGANIZATIONS ARE YOU INVOLVED IN? I am deeply involved in my local church community, as well as the USBC bowling leagues. WHO IS YOUR MENTOR? Katrena Mitchell is my main mentor, with lots of support from all the agents at the office, as well as a ton of support from my family and friends. 48 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group
49 hometown living at its best WHERE DO YOU WANT TO GO TO COLLEGE AND WHAT WILL YOU STUDY? I plan on studying Marketing at MSU and finding a job in that career, possibly applying for an internship at Compassion International and working with my dad. TELL US A FUNNY STORY ABOUT SOMETHING THAT HAPPENED WHILE CARING FOR YOUR ANIMAL OR DURING A COMPETITION. At one of the district competitions for AG Product ID, there was an ongoing poll and many arguments about whether a leafy green plant in the competition was Parsley, or Dill. It was a long argument with many people having strong opinions. Some of the dads even tried to get pictures, and no one had a clue what it actually was until after the competition was over. Turns out it was slightly wilted Parsley so they say... WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES/INTERESTS? I enjoy bowling, horseback riding, reading books (especially old literature), taking care of kids, learning new things, and playing video games with my friends. WORDS OF WISDOM OR ADVICE: Never assume you can’t do something just because its’s new or scary, or it feels hard, always do your best and don’t think about it being hard. Mistakes make you a better person, you learn more from making mistakes than you do succeeding, mistakes mean you are trying, don’t be afraid to mess up. Do the hard part. Try the new thing. Face your fears. You might find out they aren’t actually that scary.
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Written by CINDY KAHLER THOMAS | Photos by WEBER FILROSE REVIVAL Art Walk THE DOWNTOWN ART WALK WAS IN DANGER OF BECOMING OBSOLETE, BUT CITY LEADERS WORKED TOGETHER TO SAVE THE BELOVED EVENT. 52 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group
T The Art Walk has been a staple in Downtown Wichita Falls for over a decade, but in October 2025, the Downtown Wichita Falls Development lost the source of funding for the events. On January 30, they announced it would no longer be able to keep the Art Walk going. The nonprofit said in a news release that the Art Walk has evolved from a small gathering into an event that functions as a festival that the group no longer had the resources to manage. There was an outcry by downtown businesses, the artist’s community, and concerned citizens, which brought controversy to the issue. Mayor Tim Short announced that the Art Walk was not going to die under his watch, and the city got busy working on a solution. The problem was that an entity needed to step in and organize and manage the logistics of such a large festival that the Wichita Falls citizens had come to love. Many hoped that one of the arts organizations would take it over, but when that did not happen, the city considered hiring an outside consulting agency, but there was another company locally that decided to “throw their name in the hat.” Ish Duran, President of Potencia Projects, had been the host of Los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead Festival along with other festivals, and he and his organization quickly went to work to
54 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group problem. They signed a contract to work with the city to resume the Artwalk event on April 2nd and each consecutive first Thursday for several months, possibly into November and December. Funding was signed off by the 4B Sales Tax Corp. Board, not to exceed $202,904. Potencia will be paid $10,738 per month for management and production fees. That includes 10 off-duty police officers, barricades, traffic control, event insurance, portable restrooms, and emergency medical services. “We know downtown. We know a lot of the vendors here and a lot of the businesses. We believed we could put something together to make it work.” The problem was the time crunch. Ish said that a proposal usually takes about a month to put together. They did it in about a week. After approaching the city, the company was able to do a revision in another short week. “Four days later we presented it to the 4B, who approved the funds, then the city council approved to release the funds shortly after that. However, there had to be some changes in order to get the insurance needed for the events. Regulations demanded that there be a four-foot clear walkway from the edge of the street up to the sidewalk. This put an end to tents set up on the sidewalks. However, the footprint of Art Walk had to be more defined in order to insure the event. 8th Street is closed from Scott Street to Ohio Street, with Indiana and Ohio also being closed to 7th Street. Those with tents can set up in the street, and those on the sidewalks must have the business owner’s permission. Anyone setting up
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57 hometown living at its best needed to register with Potencia Projects via the website ArtwalkWF.com to reserve spots, and there was a $5 charge per space to be a vendor. Cars were moved off the roads, and through traffic will not be allowed on the roads that are in the footprint. Only food trucks will be parked in the area. Ish said that they will be working with the businesses, and the first couple of Art Walks will be collecting data. The game plan is to get everyone registered, and there will be sections. With each section, there will be employees of Potencia Projects who are responsible for those sections, helping them to run smoothly. There will also be an Art Zone on Indiana. An “art guy” at heart, Ish has spent several years working alongside the Alliance for Arts and Culture, most recently serving as Vice President of its board. His vision is simple: “We want people to come to the Art Walk and feel like, ‘Wow, Wichita Falls’ Art Walk is alive and well.’” †
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60 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group Professional interior designers know a thing or two about decorating for Christmas. We cheerfully share these ideas. Many are quick and easy. See more in our homes featured in my book “Christmas at Designers’ Homes Across America.” Happy decorating. 1COLOR SCHEMING is easy if you stick to one color. Little Rock designer Shayla Copas chose Tiffany blue. It shines at the front door and continues into the entry hall. In the living room Tiffany blue makes for a spectacular mantel and tree which vie for attention. 2ORNAMENTS ON BARE BRANCHES (natural, gilded or painted) make for a dramatic display. Save those branches when you prune your tree! AD 100 Designer Cecil Hayes adds branches and ornaments to a vase for an entry hall table in her Florida home. By Patricia Hart McMillan CHRISTMAS DECORATING TIPS 3NATIVITY SCENES add beauty and meaning to Christmas interiors. I found only a few figures from an antique nativity scene so I placed them in a china cabinet around the base of a topiary. The topiary got a ribbon bow with streamers. I spraypainted the inside of the cabinet a vibrant coral, a quick and easy job since the back is attached with clips, like the backside of a photograph frame. Lowe’s has great spray paints.
61 hometown living at its best 4LAYER TABLE CLOTHS Your table cloth not festive? Just drape a colorful short one over it, as Jamie Gibbs does for his Indianapolis home. 5WREATHS CAN HANG OUT BEAUTIFULLY ANYWHERE! Stephanie Tuliglowski hangs a wreath atop a mirror in her Illinois home. Over-door wreath hangers work well, but Stephanie hung hers with ribbon. 6 DON'T FORGET THE PATIO! Designer Tina Lewis creates a setting with a Southwest theme for her Arizona home. The sombrero adds a special touch. You can make it your own!
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Written & Photographed by CINDY KAHLER THOMAS Carol Castro found her calling in the ceramics business after taking a leap of faith and following her passion. & Calling Come Together 64 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group
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WWhen you walk into Carol Castro Ceramics and the Paint Your Own Pottery Parlour, KMOC Christian radio is playing in the background. The walls are colorful, and the space is inviting. She hosts parties, teaches lessons, has a pottery painting area, and a party room. But beneath the atmosphere of creativity and community lies something deeper: a story of calling, faith, resilience, and a woman who built an entire clay-centered world from the ground up. “I was supposed to be an artist,” Carol says, remembering how her classmates teased her in third grade: ‘Carol is an artist! Carol is an artist!’ She didn’t like being teased, so she hid her talents for years. She soon found out that God doesn’t let you hide something that He puts in you. 66 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group
Today, she sits inside her bright studio surrounded by glaze test tiles, jewelry beads, a retail area, and a large collection of bisque pieces ready to paint, and the statement feels undeniable. Carol was always meant to be an artist. And she was meant to build a place where others could become artists, too. Carol’s story began long before her studio’s grand opening this past October. In 1997, she spent a short time at Sheppard Air Force Base undergoing seven-layer training while in the USAF. She had a lot of free time and took a pottery class on base “just for fun.” “I enjoyed it, but I didn’t think much of it,” she recalls. She and her husband were stationed in Georgia, and she was discharged from the Air Force while in Georgia. Carol made a bold move; she enrolled in Valdosta State University and graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Fine Arts. She mastered every medium along the way: metalwork, welding, woodworking, glass cutting, sculpture, painting, and framing. Her husband Phil says proudly, “She became a one-woman show.” When her husband received orders to move to Sheppard Air Force Base in 2000, Carol found herself at a crossroads. “What do I do? Paint? Sculpt? Ceramics?” Ceramics won out. “You can make things and sell things and with paintings, it’s much harder to sustain a business.” Carol officially launched her business in 2003. For over twenty years, she worked from home where she taught classes, developed new techniques, and slowly grew a loyal community. She set up pop-up ceramics classes at fairs, at the Farmer’s Market, and even outside of an art gallery. She also sold her creations at these events. But she always dreamed of a dedicated space where people could gather, celebrate, learn, and create. That dream finally found its home inside a former YMCA storage building. Carol signed the lease after months of research, planning, and negotiations. And then the miracles began. “I needed four workstations, exactly four,” she says. “I came to measure, and the space was the exact length I needed down to the inch.” She needed ten stools but didn’t want to spend so much money on them, and then a Facebook ad popped up with ten stools for a fourth of the price of new ones. “It happened again and again. God put things in front of me,” she said. Tucked away in a drawer, Carol found three Bibles left behind by the YMCA. “I told them, ‘Leave them.’ They’re meant to be here.” Carol speaks plainly about the foundation of her life and business. Her faith has been a determining factor in her life. Carol and her husband Phil are underwriters for KMOC, and many of her pieces feature scripture, and her faith is woven throughout the space. “This place isn’t just about pottery,” Phil says. “It’s a reflection of what God has done in our lives. Everything in here reflects God’s work in her life.” One of the popular features is the Paint Your Own Pottery Parlour. It offers seating for 24 guests, hundreds of ceramics ready to paint, more than a hundred glaze colors, and a clean, organized environment where creations move straight to the kiln. 67 hometown living at its best
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Saturday Party Pals events welcome groups of six to twelve for birthdays, church groups, or family gatherings. “Kids sometimes can’t stand painting things twice,” Carol says. “So we have the Purple Chair of Chill. A reading nook with decades of pottery magazines and textbooks. Sometimes the parents need it too!” On the grand-opening days alone, more than 50 people created something special. Carol’s artistry reaches well beyond her studio. She works with The Center, formerly the Pregnancy Help Center, creating plaques for the Garden of Hope and the Legacy Wall, which are spaces honoring infants lost through miscarriage, abortion, or early death. “These plaques matter,” Carol says quietly. “People need a place of remembrance. A place to say, ‘This happened. This mattered.’” From children’s parties to jewelry workshops to quiet afternoons in the Purple Chair of Chill, Carol’s space and mission is more than a studio. It is a ministry, a community hub, an art center, and a labor of love. “We have all this to share,” Carol says, looking around her. “Bring them in, Lord, so we can share.” “We are made from clay with the breath of God,” she explains. “Clay reminds us what God can form. Because of that breath of God, we are living, breathing creatures; it is amazing to think about. We were all made from clay, from dirt. And we like to keep that reminder. And that God can make whatever he wants. He is going to make you the vessel he wants you to be.” † 69 hometown living at its best
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HOMETOWN Happenings The Junior League of Wichita Falls (JLWF) welcomed its largest new member class in more than 20 years during its annual New Member Orientation on August 16. Thirty-five women from across the Wichita Falls area began their Junior League journey by learning about the organization’s mission, history and community impact. Orientation included a community-wide scavenger hunt highlighting past JLWF signature projects and organizations supported by the League, including River Bend Nature Center, the Wichita Falls Area Food Bank and the Wichita Falls Museum of Art at Midwestern State University. JLWF’s year-long new member program combines volunteer service with leadership training, educational sessions and hands-on experiences. Members are placed on committees and gain the knowledge and experience needed to become active volunteers and future community leaders. The Fall 2026 class includes small business owners, artists, accountants, educators, healthcare professionals and women from many other backgrounds. “I’m incredibly excited about this group of women and what they’re going to bring to our League,” JLWF President Isha Howerton said. “Each of these women has something unique to offer, and when you bring all of that together, just think about the impact we can make in Wichita Falls.” New Member Chair Sarah Turner said welcoming the largest class in two decades is particularly meaningful after beginning her own Junior League journey as a new member 10 years ago. “I remember the enthusiasm and excitement I felt as a new member, and I can’t wait to see that same energy in this group as they begin their Junior League journey,” Turner said. Applications for Fall 2026 have closed, but women ages 21 and older interested in volunteerism, leadership development and community service are encouraged to apply for the Spring 2027 class. Learn more at www.jlwf.org. Photos provided by JLWF JUNIOR LEAGUE OF WICHITA FALLS New Member Orientation
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Written & Photographed by REANNA GONZALEZ From cowboy culture and oil booms to family heirlooms and community legends, the Museum of North Texas History keeps local stories alive for future generations. PAST PIECES OF THE
TThe Museum of North Texas History is full of relics of the past, many of which were donated by community members. Because of this, the museum’s collection serves as more than a staple in the greater history of Texas, it also serves as a showcase of community stories that transcend time. The Museum of North Texas History began as a group of individuals passionate about history. According to Museum CEO, Jeremy Davis, they accumulated a collection of artifacts that demonstrated the cowboy culture and oil boom past of the area. He noted that they originally didn’t have a space to display them in and were simply curating items that fit the collection. The spot where the Museum is currently located was originally a JCPenny’s that burned down. A new building was erected in its place that housed Wichita Bank’s computing system. When the bank decided to let go of the building, they had a stipulation that the city house a history museum on the first floor. From that point, the Museum of North Texas History officially had a TOP: Various types of military hats hung on a wall amidst other war memorabilia. LEFT: The iconic symbol of the Vietnam war, featured in the Vietnam room of the military hall. 75 hometown living at its best
home on Indiana Avenue. They opened their doors in 2000. Davis said the majority of what’s housed in the museum has been donated. He pointed out that many of the contributors come from families that have lived in the area for generations and wanted to have a piece of their family’s story preserved. One of his favorite examples of this is the Museum’s wall of Western hats that began with a single hat and quickly grew into a collection of 300. Davis said those 300 hats, paired with another 200 throughout the museum, are one of the largest collections of Western hats in the world. “I think it’s so cool getting to see people come in here and see their family’s history on display,” Davis said. The CEO clarified that, while the museum is focused on a particular region of the state, he believes the history of North Texas plays a large role in the greater history of Texas. Aside from the tales of cattle rustlers, bank robberies, and oil booms that tripled the population of the area, the story of North Texas also portrays many other historically notable events. One example he gave was when famous jazz artist Louis Jordan came to perform in Wichita Falls and the event was moved to the Rourk building and Isis theatre so that black community members could attend, resulting in a packed house. The oldest artifact in the museum is a ledger book from Joseph A. Kemp’s store, dated 1884. The book 76 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group
gives a clear and even comical look at the transactions of the time. Its impressively preserved pages give a look into the life of one of the best known historical figures in Wichita Falls, and in turn, gives spectators an idea of what life looked like for successful business owners of the late 1800s. “There’s a lot of U.S. history that came through this area,” Davis said. “The good, the bad, and the ugly.” Davis said they try to change exhibits up regularly, so there’s always a fresh new peek into the past to keep people coming back. In addition to the exhibitions, the Museum also regularly hosts events to get the community engaged with local history. One example that Davis is particularly excited about is their “Bite of History” lunches where participants can purchase a ticket and attend a lunch located in various historic buildings around town and learn about their history. Davis said that during the Fall months, they’ll be visiting the Kemp Center, the Hamilton building, and the First United Methodist Church. Davis also noted that in 2027, they’ll also be holding the Second Annual North Texas Gala, in which multiple living community members, and one community member of the past, are nominated for recognition of their community contributions. There are multiple categories in which people can be nominated for. Davis explained that the motive TOP LEFT: Other hats in the hat wall collection, which features 300 hats in total. LEFT: The hat wall collection, which features 300 hats in total. ABOVE: The oldest item in the museum, an 1880s ledger book that belonged to Kemp’s store. BOTTOM RIGHT: A jewelry box crafted from the hoof of the dead getaway horse used in the famous City National Bank bank robbery. 77 hometown living at its best
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