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1 hometown living at its best

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3 hometown living at its best DreamHome YOUR AWAITS CARPET • HARDWOOD • LAMINATE • TILE & STONE • VINYL • AREA RUGS (940) 322-3129 • 2213 GRANT ST. • WICHITA FALLS • BREEGLE.COM • M-F 8:00-5:30 • SAT. 9-1

10 MORE THAN A RUN A global movement with a local heart, Lucy Park Parkrun brings people together each week to be active, social and outdoors. 18 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Cowboy True and Western Heritage Field Day 23 A TRIBUTE TO THE SERVANT-HEARTED When a life of selflessness needs to be recognized, the Nurse Honor Guard of Wichita Falls is there. 32 H0METOWN HAPPENING T.H.O.R. 36 4-H SPOTLIGHT Meet Arianna Claeys, a 4-H’er involved in activities ranging from public speaking, to livestock showing, to food and nutrition projects. 42 A LEGACY THAT SAVES LIVES Born from tragedy, Peyton’s Project now saves lives by educating communities and expanding access to lifesaving antivenin. 46 HOMETOWN HAPPENING 11th Annual Spurs and Pearls On the Cover Contents On the Cover 4 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group 10 52 HOMETOWN HAPPENING 22nd Annual Sculpture Garden Exhibit 56 HOMETOWN GRADUATES Join us in sending well wishes and blessings to the class of 2026 61 SATURDAYS AT THE MARKET The Farmers Market Association is redefining what it means to shop local by transforming into a vibrant community hub where connection, accessibility and small business growth take center stage. 67 LIFE AND ART IN TRANSITION Inspired by nature and shaped by personal loss, Aaron Soto creates art that examines renewal, connection and the beauty found in life’s transitions. 76 HOMETOWN COOKIN’ Melissa Pierce (Dennis) from Matka Kolache shares some summer treats 23 36 52 67

• 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 5 hometown living at its best

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5 Eureka Circle, Suite A | Wichita Falls, TX 76308 | theartofdentistrywf.com L OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: Dental Health | Restorative Dentistry Orthodontics | Teeth Whitening | Dental Implants Cosmetic Dentistry | Endodontics | Advanced Technology Looking for a caring & experienced team of dental professionals? 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’re 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. BEFORE AFTER Dr. Steve Burross and Dr. Chad Jackson YOUR FAMILY. YOUR SMILE. OUR PASSION. 7 hometown living at its best

8 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group T To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven. Ecclesiastes 3:1 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 Heidi S. Hakimi Hood Sara Hook Cindy Kahler Thomas Seth Marsicano PHOTOGRAPHERS Cindy Kahler Thomas RB Photography MEDIA GROUP HOMETOWN H There’s something about summer that makes us slow down just enough to notice how quickly life is moving. This year, I’ve found myself reflecting on the season my family is in. My oldest son is thriving in his “big boy” job, building a life and career of his own, and it has been such a joy to watch. At the same time, my youngest will be a junior this fall, and suddenly I realize we may only have two, maybe three summers left before he begins his own journey into adulthood. It’s a bittersweet realization, but mostly... it’s a reminder. A reminder that life is always changing. The seasons change, our children grow, and the chapters we once thought would last forever eventually make way for new ones. While I’d be lying if I said I don’t wonder what the future will look like, I’m learning not to rush ahead and miss the beauty of where I am right now. This season may feel a little like standing in the doorway between what was and what’s next, but it’s also filled with so much to be grateful for. Family dinners that somehow become harder to coordinate, spontaneous conversations, vacations, celebrations, and the simple moments that often become our favorite memories. As I look ahead, I’m choosing excitement over worry. Trusting the Lord with what’s to come and embracing the opportunities that every new season brings. After all, every chapter has its own purpose, blessings, and adventures waiting to unfold. As you enjoy this summer issue of Wichita Falls Living, I hope you’ll take time to savor the season you’re in. Whether you’re watching children grow, celebrating milestones, chasing dreams, or simply enjoying a slower pace this summer, may you find joy in the moments right in front of you. Here’s to sunshine, family, new memories, and embracing whatever comes next. Warmly, Kayla Durham COVER PHOTO Maddy and Abby Logan Photo by Copper Still 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 Summer in the Falls is Here!

9 hometown living at its best I VANGUARD CUSTOM HOMES: BUILDING MORE THAN HOUSES, WE’RE LEADING THE WAY In a world full of cookie-cutter houses and one-size-fits-all solutions, Vanguard Custom Homes was founded with a bold vision: to lead from the front. At Vanguard, every home is more than a project, it’s a personal commitment. Whether it’s leveraging the latest building technology or streamlining the process for maximum efficiency, Vanguard brings big picture thinking and on-the-ground know-how to every build. From modern aesthetics to classic comfort, from cutting edge innovation to rock-solid dependability, Vanguard Custom Homes is redefining what it means to build in Wichita Falls. When you’re ready to stop settling and start creating, Vanguard is ready to lead the way. Visit vanguardwf.com to learn more or get in touch today.940-782-1567 | jorin@vanguardwf.com

10 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group Written by HEIDI S. HAKIMI-HOOD | Photos provided by ANNA WINN A GLOBAL MOVEMENT WITH A LOCAL HEART, LUCY PARK PARKRUN BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER EACH WEEK TO BE ACTIVE, SOCIAL AND OUTDOORS. MORE THAN A RUN

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12 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group WWichita Falls is a pathmaking North Texas community, and one particularly exciting event where our pride shines brightest is at the weekly Lucy Park parkrun. Every Saturday morning, people of all ages and fitness levels gather for a free, community-centered 5K. Participants can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate in our local gathering with global connections. Lucy Park parkrun takes place every Saturday at 8:00 am (May-September) and 9:00 am (October-April). The 5K-path is an out and back course starting at Lucy Park’s main pavilion and winding along the Circle Trail next to the Wichita River, past our famous Falls, along a fully paved 10ft-wide path that is mostly flat with a few gentle hills. Wichita Falls, alongside Baytown, Houston, Keller and Spring, are the lucky Texas cities where parkrun tourists frequently come to visit on Saturday mornings. Parkrun tourists sightsee, enjoy local eateries, and add another parkrun to their runners’ checklists. Parkruns take place in 23 countries and across 5 continents. Parkrunners travel to cities across the nation and worldwide, and they anticipate the same welcoming spirit wherever parkruns take place. No one needs to be a fast runner or elite athlete to participate, and running is not required at all. People with strollers, pets, friends, or simply a desire to move are encouraged to join. Parkrun is promoted as a run, not a race. Local run director Anna Winn, originally from New Zealand, where parkrun has been family-friendly since 2012, helped bring the event to Wichita Falls. “Parkrun started in the UK 20 years ago and now has 11 million participants worldwide. I have friends from back home that participate weekly. They inspired me to organize a parkrun in Wichita Falls,” Winn said. The event prides itself on being inclusive, positive, and supportive, with volunteer tail walkers ensuring that no one is ever last and that everyone has company. Winn encourages everyone to come out and volunteer, “Your support helps parkrun events remain sustainable and free for all in our community, and it’s also a wonderful way to improve your own health and happiness.”

As a parkrun volunteer and participant, I can attest to the uplifting energy that keeps me coming back for more. After 2020, my life had taken a rather sedentary turn; however, I am now running weekly and have completed my first half marathon. Whether we walk, run, or volunteer, my fellow participants and I form bonds and enjoy a shared sense of accomplishment. I try to factor in parkrun as part of my family’s weekend plans, and I invite friends. Accountability is definitely a motivator! Having a parkrun buddy expecting to see me ready to run makes it more difficult to skip out on the fun. Parkrun also provides a unique opportunity for connection among Wichita Falls’ diverse population, including families involved with the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training Program at Sheppard Air Force Base. These international families contribute greatly to the welcoming spirit of the event and the city as a whole. 13 hometown living at its best 13

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Parkrun provides a great way to make new friends and reach new milestones. Volunteer greeters welcome first-timers and recognize repeat participants. Everyone is welcome. No experience, skills, or knowledge are required. More so than in a typical 5K run, parkrunners chat a bit before the start, cheer one another on at the finish line, and meet for a coffee after each event. Parkrun motivates people from all ages and walks of life to go outside and build community. While a few safety guidelines apply, such as requiring children under eleven to stay within arm’s reach of a guardian and leashing pets, the event remains accessible to all. Parkrun brings people together and helps them with their physical and mental health. An overwhelming majority of parkrun participants have stated that parkrun makes them feel happier and has improved their social lives. As a community, parkrunners promote their events as “the largest health and wellbeing movement on the planet,” aiming to bring people together “to be active, social, and outdoors.” Parkrun is a charity organization and is run completely by volunteers. Come to Lucy Park parkrun as soon as you can. You can walk, jog, run, or take part at a speed of your choosing. As an added bonus, you just might make a new friend! † To join parkrun for free, please complete the one-time registration at https://www.parkrun.us/lucypark/. Participants will need to bring a scannable copy or screen shot of the barcode received upon registration. 15 hometown living at its best

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HOMETOWN Happenings

19 hometown living at its best The Arts Council WF and Kemp Center for the Arts recently celebrated western heritage and regional arts and culture through its Cowboy True Cultural Initiative, a dynamic program designed to honor the artistry, traditions, and spirit of the American Cowboy. The initiative featured an invitational gallery exhibit showcasing works inspired by cowboy life, western landscapes, and rural storytelling by regional and national artists. In addition to the exhibit, Cowboy True welcomed more than 250 elementary students from across the region for an immersive Western Heritage Field Day. Students rotated through hands-on educational stations highlighting cowboy culture and history, including line dancing, cowboy trail songs, dummy roping, stick horse races, western art activities, and other interactive experiences. The event connected young audiences to the enduring traditions of the West through creativity, movement, music, and storytelling. Through both visual arts and educational programming, Cowboy True continues to preserve and celebrate the cultural legacy of the American cowboy for audiences of all ages. COWBOY TRUE & WESTERN HERITAGE Photos by ACWF Staff Field Day

three state parks one adventure HQ Mineral Wells Plan your adventure @visitmineralwells 20 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

21 hometown living at its best A Degree That Works

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23 hometown living at its best A TRIBUTE TO THE Servant-Hearted Written by SARA HOOK | Photos by RB PHOTOGRAPHY and provided by NURSE HONOR GUARD OF WICHITA FALLS When a life of selflessness needs to be recognized, the Nurse Honor Guard of Wichita Falls is there.

24 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group WWith their white uniforms, white caps, and blue and red capes, the members of the Nurse’s Honor Guard make striking figures next to any nurse’s casket. Nurses live their lives in service to others, and the honor guard is there to recognize the many years of dedication nurses give to their communities. Since 2003, members of the Nurse’s Honor Guard have celebrated the selfless lives of deceased nurses. There are over 220 chapters of the guard across the United States, including one right here in Wichita Falls. The Nurse’s Honor Guard of Wichita Falls was founded in 2022 by four local nurses: Jeanette Kennedy, Charla Brown, Kim Killian, and Megan Anderle. All four were working for Hospice of Wichita Falls at the time, and became president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer respectively. Brown was the one who first read about the guard and knew it was something Wichita Falls needed. “Firemen have it, police officers have it, military has it, but nurses give so much of themselves every day and they deserve to be honored,” Brown said. The costs of the initial uniforms were covered by two of the nurses’ mothers, and the four began recruiting. The chapter’s first funeral, in January 2023, was especially important for the four founders. They had the opportunity to honor the life of their supervisor who was the nurse who had hired each of them. “It was amazing,” Brown said. “Everybody was crying, including us.” After they’d done some 20 funerals, Brown and Kennedy had the opportunity to attend the honor guard’s national conference. There were over 400 nurses from around the country who gathered to have fellowship and learn from each other. Kennedy said the experience they had there drove home how important the work of the honor guard was.

25 hometown living at its best "The Nightingale Tribute held deep meaning for me because it offered a much-needed acknowledgment of the immense emotional, mental, and physical toll nurses endure for their patients...The response from family and friends was overwhelming; many said the service was so touching it brought them to tears." - Angie Cabe, wife of Robert Cabe “We got in there and just saw the gravity of the situation,” Kennedy said. “There’s just a handful of us, maybe ten of us that were doing it at the time, and most ceremonies we were hopeful we could get four people to be a part of it. And some of these chapters had been around for years… they’d done hundreds of ceremonies.” Brown and Kennedy came home with a passion for the honor guard and its work, and they have inspired many others to join them. Since that first ceremony, the Nurses Honor Guard of Wichita Falls has grown to 75 members, and paid tribute to over 52 nurses and their families across 12 counties. Another group, the Red River Nurse’s Honor Guard, has since split off so the nurses could cover more territory.

26 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group They don’t just stand watch at the casket. At each funeral, the honor guard performs a tribute, called the Nightingale Tribute, that honors the nurse’s life and service and ultimately releases them from their nursing duties. Every part of the Nightingale Tribute has meaning. The name is a reference to Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, and uniforms likewise honor nurses from history. The honor guard stands watch before the ceremony, and their part during the service includes reciting the Nightingale pledge, the nurse’s prayer, and the poem “She Was There,” by Duane Jager. They also present a white rose and perform a final call to duty. “We officially release them from their nursing duties,” Brown said. “Their nursing brothers and sisters will take it from here.” At the end, the family is presented with a ceremonial nurse’s lamp. The lamp symbolizes the values that Florence Nightingale stood for, which include courage, gentleness, dedication, and an unwavering devotion to duty. “We get so many thank yous that we’re honoring them,” Brown said. “It is so meaningful.” "These incredible women selflessly dedicate their time to honoring nurses who have passed, doing so in one of the most beautiful and respectful ways imaginable. I want all nurses to be remembered and memorialized with the dignity and tribute they truly deserve." - Tara Wheeler, daughter-in-law of Staci Williams

"The whole service is provided free of charge. While the Nurse’s Honor Guard has received several donations, most of the cost of the lamps and roses has been provided by Hospice of Wichita Falls. The non-profit has been very generous," Kennedy said. Recently they have also started a new initiative, where families can ‘pay it forward’ by purchasing a lamp for the next service the honor guard attends. The name of the person being honored is put on the lamp’s box, so the next family knows who passed that blessing forward. Photographs of all honorees and photos of the ceremonies can be found on the honor guard’s website. Nurses spend their lives in service, reaching into lives and making a difference in a way no one else can. The Nurse’s Honor Guard of Wichita Falls is there for families when that life is over, and it is their privilege to give tribute to a life spent for others. The honor guard can perform a tribute for any nurse with a licensure. Services can be requested through Hospice of Wichita Falls, or through their funeral home coordinator. The Nurse’s Honor Guard is always looking for new members, and interested nurses can find information on how to join on the website as well: jshummell. wixsite.com/nurse-honor-guard-of. † "The Nightingale tribute, ringing the bell and officially releasing them from their duty, is similar to the last call for a police officer or firefighter. It was a very moving tribute when they did that, bringing many tears! I know [my mother] would have been so honored by it." - Paula Chambless, daughter of Genevieve Hitchcock 27 hometown living at its best

28 wichita falls living "[The Honor Guard] gives families a way to honor a loved one’s career choice and nurses provide so much to so many others. I am very glad that we had found out about this ceremony and were able to honor our mom in such a unique way." - Morgan Melton, daughter of Jan Lee Anderson "I didn’t know what to expect, but the ceremony was heartwarming and extremely emotional. My sister would have been honored by the tribute to her years of dedication as a nurse." - Becky Ferguson, sister of Jan Lee Anderson

29 hometown living at its best She Was There When a calming, quiet presence was all that was needed, She was there. In the excitement and miracle of birth or in the mystery and loss of life, She was there. When a silent glance could uplift a patient, family member or friend, She was there. At those times when the unexplainable needed to be explained, She was there. When the situation demanded a swift foot and sharp mind, She was there. When a gentle touch, a firm push, or an encouraging word was needed, She was there. In choosing the best one from a family’s “Thank You” box of chocolates, She was there. To witness humanity—its beauty, in good times and bad, without judgment, She was there. To embrace the woes of the world, willingly, and offer hope, She was there. And now, that it is time to be at the Greater One’s side, She is there. © 2004 by Duane Jaeger, RN, MSN

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HOMETOWN Happenings If you are looking for a peaceful morning stroll, you are in the wrong place. THOR is back, just completing its fifteenth year and it was bigger, muddier, and more grueling than ever. This 5K(ish) outdoor obstacle endurance event completely took over Wichita Falls in April, kicking off at Lucy Park before launching participants into a course of pure offroad insanity. We just wrapped up an absolute monster of a year, shattering our recent averages to welcome over 1,600 participants. That officially makes this our second-highest turnout ever. Of course, none of this chaos happens without our army of over 200 dedicated volunteers holding down the line. But THOR is about way more than surviving the mud; it is about giving back to the place we call home. The sweat poured during the race directly fuels incredible local benefactors. Proceeds support Leadership Wichita Falls, an organization that has been shaping and preparing civic leaders since 1979. Funds also benefit Streams and Valleys, a fantastic non-profit working to build a sense of adventure and connect our modern community to its historic river corridor. We also could not pull this off without the vital, ongoing support of the SAFB Civilian Mentorship, the Wichita Falls Parks and Rec Department, the Wichita Falls Police Officers Association, Friberg Cooper VFD, and the Wichita Falls Fire Department and EMS services. Once the grit and dust settled, the finish line village came alive with vendors, music, and well-earned celebrations for the massive crowd of racers and spectators alike. T.H.O.R. Photos by RB Photography

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HOMETOWN Happenings

AR I ANNA CLAEYS Photos provided by THE OWENS FAMILY 4-H SPOTLIGHT AGE: 14 PARENTS: Michale & Tisha Owens 4-H CLUB: WF Explorers WHERE DO YOU LIVE: Burkburnett HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED IN THE 4-H AND PROJECTS? I am in my 5th year.

37 hometown living at its best WHAT 4-H ACTIVITIES ARE YOU INVOLVED IN? Fashion Show, Public speaking, Ag ID, Wildlife, Food and Nutrition Project, Rabbits, Chickens, Public Speaking, Talent Show (vocals), Community Service, and Consumer Decision Making WHAT LEADERSHIP ROLES/COMMUNITY SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES DO YOU PARTICIPATE IN? I love teaching people my passion, which is anything art, so I’m leading a camp called Camp Create! this Summer. It’s a camp where I teach youth art and crafts. I also helped with a craft during a family day for the Kemp Center of Arts, where we promoted 4-H and made a craft with kids. For community service, I helped at the Food Bank with making food bags for kids, volunteered at the alpaca show to help with the show, and I volunteered at the OctobUR festival to help pass out candy. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE AND LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOUR 4-H PROJECTS? My favorite part about my 4-H projects is meeting many different people along the way and learning new things. I don’t really have a least favorite part, but when my rabbits are nervous they can sometimes scratch my skin to get away from strangers. That is not my favorite part! HOW HAS BEING A PART OF 4-H PROGRAMS PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE/GOALS? 4-H has given me confidence in speaking to people. My future career goal is to become a police officer, and I need to have confidence that I can talk to people. WHY IS BEING IN 4-H IMPORTANT TO YOU? It is important to me because it has taught me things not even public school could teach me. 4-H brought people into my life I would’ve never been friends with. I’m so grateful for 4-H.

38 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THINKING ABOUT JOINING 4-H TO PERSUADE THEM TO JOIN? Joining 4-H will give you so many opportunities and experiences. You will meet people you have never met and become friends with people you never would have thought you would become friends with. As you grow in 4-H, you will learn so many cool things and a plus is you have a chance to get a scholarship so you can continue with your education. WHERE HAVE YOU COMPETED AND WHAT AWARDS HAVE YOU WON? I have won so many that I am proud of so I am going to share a few. I have competed in the District Fashion Show for 3 years. The first year I won 3rd place in Buying: Special Interest category where I wore an anime inspired outfit. The second year I placed 2nd for the Buying: Special Interest category for another anime inspired outfit. This year, I placed 2nd place in Upcycle Your Style for hand painting hibiscus flowers on a pair of used jeans. I competed in the District AG ID and got 7th place out of 25 people in the district and my team got 4th. For the District 3 4-H Talent Show I competed in vocals and I placed 3rd out of 6. At the 2026 Wichita County Junior Livestock show, I placed 1st for my drawing and was Grand Champion overall for the Fine Arts Division. OTHER GROUPS/ORGANIZATIONS ARE YOU INVOLVED IN? Little Lantern Theatre (acting, stage crew) and Unified Arts & Production Studio (vocals, guitar)

39 hometown living at its best WHO IS YOUR MENTOR? I don’t have one mentor, I learn a lot of things from many people that I look up to like my mom and my 4-H agent, Ms. Katrena. WHAT DO YOU WANT TO DO WHEN YOU GROW UP? WHERE DO YOU WANT TO GO TO COLLEGE AND WHAT WILL YOU STUDY? What I want to be when I grow up is a police officer and/or a tattoo artist. I am interested in the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma and dreaming big for Julliard. I want to study performing arts for Juilliard and for the USAO the visual arts. TELL US A FUNNY STORY ABOUT SOMETHING THAT HAPPENED WHILE CARING FOR YOUR ANIMAL OR DURING A COMPETITION. One day I was feeding my rabbits and loving on them then when I closed the cage, I turned to see one of the baby rabbits in a bowl so they looked like ice cream. It was so cute! WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES/INTERESTS? I love singing, acting, sketching, and anything art. COMMENTS/WORDS OF WISDOM OR ADVICE: Life is short. Be who you are. Ignore the haters. Don’t let your fire go out.

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42 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group O Written by SARA HOOK | Photos provided by THE CANNEDY FAMILY Born from tragedy, Peyton’s Project now saves lives by educating communities and expanding access to lifesaving antivenin. On August 10, 2010, two-year-old Peyton Hood was bitten by a baby diamondback rattlesnake in the front yard of her grandparents’ Possum Kingdom lake house. The nearest hospital wasn’t equipped to take her, so Peyton was care flighted to Cook’s Children’s Hospital in Fort Worth. Despite receiving antivenin treatments and blood transfusions, she did not survive the bite and died just five hours later. It was a horrible loss for the entire family as well as the many community members whose hearts Peyton had captured through her energy and love of life. A LEGACY that Saves Lives

43 hometown living at its best But tragedy wasn’t the end of the story. Peyton’s aunt, Tammy Reese, began researching rattlesnakes and rattlesnake venom. Determined not to let another person suffer the same fate, she and other family members founded Peyton’s Project: an organization dedicated to raising venomous snake awareness. The success of their mission is unmistakable. Since Peyton’s Project was founded in 2014, not one person in the areas it services has died from a snakebite and over 90 bite victims have benefitted from the non-profit’s antivenin program. The family was uniquely suited for such a non-profit. Executive director Alyssa Cannedy, Peyton’s great aunt, had her degree in education and mass communication, and Antivenin Director Cinda Cannedy had 20 years of experience in the non-profit world. They both felt called to be involved with the work of Peyton’s Project, Alyssa said, to carry on Peyton’s memory and her legacy. “Combined, our education and nonprofit experience is what also helps us continue this mission and follow through with Peyton’s legacy.” Alyssa said. Peyton’s project has two main purposes: to educate the community, and to work with hospitals. The non-profit offers free education programs to everyone, from school ages K-12 to adults in college, on construction sites, and in civic groups. They’ve worked with summer camps, boy scouts, girl scouts, and boys and girls clubs. “There’s no one that we do not educate,” Alyssa said. Education programs cover the characteristics of all local venomous snakes, as well as protocols for what to do if you see a snake, what to do if you’re bitten, and what not to do if you’re bitten. While greater community education can help limit the number of snake bites each year, some are inevitable. The other side of Peyton’s project, the antivenin program, exists to solve that issue. Started in 2016, the antivenin program partners with United Regional as well as nine Peyton’s project has two main purposes: TO EDUCATE THE COMMUNITY, AND TO WORK WITH HOSPITALS.

44 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group rural hospitals to make sure that every hospital has a ‘loading dose’ of antivenin in supply. That loading dose is critical for snake bite victims, as it allows for safe transportation to a major trauma center like United Regional or Cook Children’s Hospital. Swift administration of antivenin can save lives and limbs and as Tammy Reese likes to say, “time is tissue.” “That’s absolutely true, time is tissue,” Cinda said. “The quicker you can get that medicine into your body the less damage you will sustain and have lasting effects from.” Beyond helping the rural hospitals afford and store antivenin, Peyton’s Project collects data from the hospitals and all snake bite victims. They track how many vials of antivenin are used, where the snake was, and whether the patient had to be transferred, as well as other data. “That information will be used to help prevent [bites], help the doctors better learn how to treat patients, and how to best administer to patients the antivenin.” Every bit of data is useful both for the quest to best treat snake bite victims and for research into other uses for snake venom. Peyton’s Project also uses it to keep their education program up to date on when and where bites happen.

As a non-profit, Peyton’s Project is supported primarily through local donations. In February of each year, they host a fundraiser called Spurs and Pearls, a community event that offers live music, raffles, and a live auction. “It is always a huge success, and it is very well-attended,” Alyssa said. “It’s integral to our fundraising and our funding for the year to provide the education and fund the antivenin program.” The non-profit has made a huge impact in its local community, but the Cannedy’s say that Peyton’s Project has goals to extend its reach. After all, every hospital that is equipped with antivenin is another chance to save someone’s life. “Our hope is to expand further,” Alyssa said. “We’re hoping to expand into Oklahoma more, and further throughout the state of Texas to offer this to other rural hospitals outside of our immediate communities.” Meanwhile, the non-profit is committed to serving the people at home. Any organization or education program is welcome to take part in the free courses Peyton’s project has to offer. To find out more, email executive.director@ peytonsproject.org or call 940-232-7882 for more information. “We’re very proud of it,” Alyssa said. “No one has died in this area since Peyton’s Project began, from a snakebite.” Though nothing will ever erase the tragedy that took Peyton’s life, her legacy will never be forgotten, and perhaps it will save even more lives along the way. † BITTEN? 1. STAY CALM. Keep victim calm. 2. CHECK to make sure you are away from the snake. 3. CALL for help (cell phone or whistle) 4. REMOVE any constricting clothing or jewelry 5. IMMOBILIZE and keep the bitten area at a neutral position of comfort until the antivenin treatment is started. 6. CLEAN the area with soap and water while waiting for help to prevent infection. 7. Do NOT apply ice or any type of cooling agent. 8. Do NOT apply a tourniquet. 9. Do NOT cut the bite or try to remove venom. 10. Do NOT take pain-relieving medicine, such as Aspirin, Ibuprofen, or Aleve. Doing so can increase your risk of bleeding. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF SNAKEBITES IN HUMANS: -A noticeable bite on the skin that may appear as a discolored area with two (but occasionally only one) puncture marks -Intense burning pain and swelling in the area of the bite. -Rapid pulse and labored breathing -Low blood pressure and increased heart rate -Progressive general weakness -Vision problems, nausea and vomiting -Seizures -Drowsiness or unconsciousness Courtesy of www.peytonsproject.org and Texas A&M Kingsville 45 hometown living at its best

HOMETOWN Happenings

Peyton’s Project marked another successful year with its 11th Annual Spurs & Pearls Fundraiser, held February 21 at the Rock Barn in Henrietta. The evening brought together supporters from across the region for a night of live music, community connection, and meaningful impact, all in support of the organization’s mission. Guests were treated to a memorable performance by singer-songwriter Brice Long, whose storytelling and music set the tone for an engaging and heartfelt evening. Alongside the entertainment, attendees enjoyed great food, drinks, raffles, and live auctions, all contributing to a night focused on giving back. The event’s success was made possible by the generous support of sponsors, including Silver Spurs sponsors Olney Hamilton Hospital and Electra Memorial Hospital, as well as Pistols & Pearls sponsors American National Bank & Trust, Marchand Roofing & Construction, Kell Auto Sales, Prosperity Bank, and United Regional Health Care System. Additional support came from Peyton’s Pearls sponsors Bryant Edwards Foundation, The Fain Foundation, and the J.S. Bridwell Foundation. Numerous local businesses and individuals contributed through raffle items, gift cards, and event support, helping create a well-rounded and festive experience for guests. From catering provided by United Market Street to the many volunteers and donors who gave their time and resources, the evening reflected the strong spirit of community that continues to drive Peyton’s Project forward. With another successful fundraiser in the books, Peyton’s Project looks ahead to continuing its important work in the year to come. 11TH ANNUAL Spurs & Pearls Photos by RB Photography 47 hometown living at its best

HOMETOWN Happenings

49 hometown living at its best

50 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

51 hometown living at its best

52 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group HOMETOWN Happenings The 22nd annual Sculpture Garden exhibit at the Kemp Center for the Arts once again transformed the grounds into an openair gallery experience, celebrating the intersection of art, nature, and community. This year’s exhibit features ten newly installed sculptures by acclaimed regional and national artists, offering visitors a diverse collection of contemporary works to explore throughout the year. The exhibition officially opened with the muchanticipated Garden Party, an evening that welcomed artists, patrons, and community members together for a celebration of creativity in downtown Wichita Falls. Guests enjoyed live music, refreshments, and the opportunity to engage directly with the artists while experiencing the sculptures within the natural landscape of the garden setting. Designed to make public art accessible to all, the Sculpture Garden exhibit invites the community to experience art beyond traditional gallery walls. Open year-round, the garden serves as a cultural destination where visitors of all ages can encounter large-scale sculpture in an inspiring and approachable environment. For more information on the exhibiting artists, visit artscouncilwf.org. 22ND ANNUAL Photos by Torin Halsey & Grace Ainsworth Sculpture Garden

53 hometown living at its best

54 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group If you are: • ENERGETIC • SELF MOTIVATED • ENJOY MEETING PEOPLE WANT TO JOIN OUR TEAM? WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!! WE ARE CURRENTLY SEEKING A SALES ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE FOR WICHITA FALLS LIVING MAGAZINE! Please send your resume to: casey@hometownmedia.group or call (817) 599-6167 to learn more.

55 hometown living at its best

56 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group Join us in congratulating them with prayers & well wishes for their future endeavors. Contact our office for information on being featured in our next HOMETOWN GRADUATES SECTION. office@hometownmedia.group Graduates HOMETOWN 6 1 2 3 7 5 4 10 9 8

600 8th Street • Downtown Wichita Falls, Texas That’s why the mission of the Wichita Falls Art Association, a nonprofit organization, is to promote local artists, expand cultural horizons, broaden education and enrich the community through appreciation and participation in the visual arts. The WFAA Gallery in historic downtown Wichita Falls provides a medium in which the public can view many visual art forms by local artists. Do come check out the art and the gallery gift items. We invite you to join us. Meetings and programs are held monthly and guests are always welcome. Give us a call at 940-343-7507. Art has always played a large part in society. WFAA940.org • 940-343-7507 8th & Ohio, Downtown Open Wednesday through Saturday 10am to 4pm WFAA940.org • 940-343-7507 600 8th Street • Wichita Falls, TX Call To Learn More Dr. Kissi Blackwell Looking for affordable care that puts You First? 940.441.2273 claritydirectcare.com Same day or next day visits Minimal to no wait times No copays or surprise costs Comprehensive primary care 59 hometown living at its best

60 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

Written by SETH MARSICANO | Photos provided by MONICA VERETTO The Farmers Market Association is redefining what it means to shop local by transforming into a vibrant community hub where connection, accessibility, and small business growth take center stage. SATURDAYS at the Market 61 hometown living at its best

SSupporting local has always been essential to strong communities, and farmers markets often serve as that connection point. At 807 Austin, this well-established market has evolved into something more intentional under the leadership of the Farmers Market Association, an organization formed in 2021 to ensure vendors have a voice in how the market operates. That shift has made a noticeable impact. What was once managed by a single decisionmaker has grown into a collaborative, vendordriven environment where ideas are shared, feedback is valued, and the market continues to adapt and improve. “Our market is like a community,” said marketing coordinator Monica Veretto. “Our vendors are family, and we’ve really cultivated that atmosphere over the years.” 62 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

Veretto, who has been part of the market for six years and now serves on its board, has seen the transformation firsthand. Today, monthly meetings give vendors the opportunity to contribute ideas, raise concerns, and help shape the direction of the market by turning it into what she describes as “everyone’s market.” That sense of ownership is fueling a larger vision. The goal is no longer just to provide a place to shop, but to create a space where people can gather, connect, and spend meaningful time together. Accessibility plays a key role in that mission. The market stands out as the only one in town that accepts SNAP benefits, with an additional program that allows shoppers to double their dollars. The result is broader access to fresh, locally grown produce and a more inclusive experience for the community. “It opens up fresh fruits and vegetables to more people in our community,” Veretto noted. 63 hometown living at its best

Beyond its weekly offerings, the market has become known for its lively and well-attended events. With roughly two featured events each month, there is always something new drawing visitors in. Annual favorites like the Watermelon Fest and the Salsa Showdown, which is its largest event of the year, continue to bring energy and excitement, while new additions keep the calendar fresh. This year introduces the Great Pickle Pop-Up, a celebration dedicated entirely to pickled and preserved goods. These events not only highlight local creativity but also create meaningful opportunities for vendors to expand their reach and grow their businesses. Families are also a central part of the experience. During event days, the market hosts a Kids Club, offering hands-on activities that keep children engaged while parents shop and explore. Veretto explained that it’s a way to involve the kids and give families even more reason to come out.

Guided by its slogan, “Where community comes together,” the Farmers Market Association has turned intention into impact. Vendors have grown alongside the market, with some even expanding into permanent retail spaces, which is an encouraging sign of what can happen when small businesses are supported in the right environment. At its heart, the market’s success is driven by the people who show up. It’s more than a place to shop, it’s a place to build relationships, support neighbors, and be part of something bigger. For anyone wanting to support or check it out, the market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from January through April and October through December, and every Tuesday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. from May through September. “There’s something for everyone,” Veretto said. † 65 hometown living at its best

3910 WAYNE AVE STE 104 | WICHITA FALLS, TX 76308 | 940.691.0281 | WWW.KBONDJEWELERS.COM Start Your Stack! Conventional Loans • FHA/VA/USDA • Refinancing • Refinance Cash-Out • HELOC’s • • Builder Custom & Spec Loans • Guidance Lines • Development Loans Copyright© 2026. All rights reserved. Equal housing lender. NMLS 481188. Investar Bank, 3801 Fairway, Wichita Falls, TX 76310. 940-696-3000. www.InvestarBank.com, nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Information not intended to be a commitment to lend. All loans subject to credit approval. Not all applicants will qualify. Rates and terms may apply. Rates, fees, terms, and programs subject to change without notice. Not all loans, loan sizes, or products may apply. Loans subject to borrower qualifications, including income, property evaluation, sufficient equity in the home to meet loan-to-value requirements, and final credit approval. Approvals subject to program guidelines and subject to change without notice. Meet with the licensed loan originator above for more information. 940.696.3000 INVESTARBANK.COM Wayne Pharries 940.867.9955 VICE PRESIDENT, COMMERCIAL LENDING NMLS# 710461 3801 Fairway Wichita Falls, TX 76310 Lindsey Sheppard 940.636.9018 SENIOR MORTGAGE LOAN OFFICER NMLS# 1373566 2304 Midwestern Pkwy. Wichita Falls, TX 76308 Your Commercial and Residential Lending Stars 66 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

Written and Photographed by CINDY KAHLER THOMAS Inspired by nature and shaped by personal loss, Aaron Soto creates art that examines renewal, connection, and the beauty found in life’s transitions. Life and Art IN TRANSITION 67 hometown living at its best

AAaron Soto has lived in Texoma her entire life, and despite a growing love for travel, her sense of belonging has never wavered. No matter how far she goes or how wide her perspective becomes, she knows she will always return. Her love affair with nature began here as a child. Soto’s earliest memories are sparse but vivid. She does not recall long narratives or defining childhood events. Instead, two images surface repeatedly, drawing and running through open pastureland. Growing up, she spent hours outdoors, immersed in nature, equally content sketching or exploring the land around her. Bugs, birds, grasses, and shifting light were not curiosities, but companions. That early intimacy with the natural world planted a lifelong habit of observation. Aaron’s work blends portraiture with plants and animals, drawing heavily from her connection to the natural world. Rather than viewing nature as something separate from humanity, she sees it as deeply intertwined with who we are. “Nature is a big source of inspiration and continues to shape the direction of my artistic practice,” she said, noting that taking time to notice and connect with the quiet “thrum of activity” around us is what ultimately inspires her choice of subjects. Aaron arrived at MSU as a biology major and eventually landed where she had always belonged, immersed in art. She graduated in 2017, but graduation did not bring immediate clarity. Instead, it ushered in a long creative slump marked by inactivity and uncertainty. She didn’t realize yet how closely her sense of purpose was tied to creating, but she didn’t give up on art as she did paint some murals during that time. Creating art, she later realized, was inseparable from her sense of purpose. Without it, life felt stalled. Aaron left a public mark on Wichita Falls through her mural work. In 2022, she completed a large jackrabbit mural along with a cat mural, a horned toad mural, and another mural featuring butterflies on a building along Midwestern Parkway near the golf course. These murals are recognized instantly by many residents. Coordinated through the Alliance for Arts and Cultures, Aaron navigated the unpredictable Texas weather, freezing or burning up in equal measure as the mural progressed from late October to early December. The experience was demanding and deeply satisfying. 68 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

69 hometown living at its best

Yet even as people recognized her public work, Aaron encountered a recurring question she could not answer. When asked if she had anything for sale, she did not. She had no physical body of work to hold, to offer, or to share. That absence was changed due to a tragedy. Things changed with the loss of two pets within a short period of time and became the unlikely catalyst for Aaron’s current body of work. Out of devastation came focus. She saw how decay and renewal exist side by side, how death can quietly give rise to something new. What might seem ironic on the surface felt, to her, entirely natural. In her current body of work, these ideas surface repeatedly in Soto’s imagery. Insects, hares, gardens, and human figures appear as symbols of transition and adaptation. “You will notice a lot of bugs in my work, cicadas especially. They are incredible creatures. I think that I love things that have evolved so specifically to their environment. I think it is incredible,” she explained. When she enrolled in a continuing education ceramics class, she initially persuaded a friend to join her simply for company. What followed felt, in her words, like a sitcom unfolding season by 70 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

season. First, it was just the two of them learning the basics. Then another friend joined. Then more. Over time, the ceramics studio became a community defined by shared learning, conversation, and mutual encouragement. For Aaron, who deeply missed the communal studio environment after graduating, that sense of belonging was transformative. Ceramics also reshaped Soto’s relationship with time. Unlike hourly wage work or easily measured productivity, clay is resistant to quantification. Her large blue hare sculpture took months. She does not track the hours, nor does she regret them. To her, that time is not lost but enjoyed, spent working toward something tangible and enduring. The ancient lineage of ceramics only deepened this connection. Knowing that people have shaped clay for thousands of years altered her perspective entirely. That continuity offered her what she describes as a new lease on life, a shift in perspective rather than circumstance. At 31, Aaron feels more grounded than she ever did in her twenties. She embraces the freedom of adulthood, the ability to travel, and a life shared with friends. With no children but plenty of animals and creative pursuits, her life feels spacious rather than lacking. 71 hometown living at its best

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