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Looking for a caring and experienced team of dental professionals? Look no further. From your first contact, you will notice that The Art of Dentistry is committed to providing excellent care for the whole family. We are dedicated to creating healthy, beautiful smiles for all ages. Our comprehensive range of services allows us to treat the entire mouth under one roof. We offer a wide range of services from dental exams, cleanings and periodontal treatment, to endodontics, orthodontics, dental implants and cosmetic smile enhancements. Our exceptional team has many years of experience combined. We are ready to make you a part of our dental family, and assist you in achieving a healthy, beautiful smile caring for your entire family. 2 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

We always welcome new patients of every age. Whether you are new to Wichita Falls or seeking an improved dental experience, we invite you to call our office for additional information. 940.691.6066 English and Spanish Speaking Team Members - Hablamos Español 5 Eureka Circle, Suite A | Wichita Falls, TX 76308 | theartofdentistrywf.com OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: Dental Health • Restorative Dentistry • Orthodontics Teeth Whitening • Dental Implants Cosmetic Dentistry • Endodontics • Advanced Technology 3 hometown living at its best

Contents 8 A SALUTE TO SERVICE A look into Hospice of Wichita Falls and Michele Houck’s heartfelt program to honor local veterans. 16 HOMETOWN GRADUATES Join us in congratulating the class of 2024! 19 MAKING SUMMER LEARNING FUN Fit learning into your family’s summer routine while creating meaningful memories. 26 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Cowboy True Dinner Under the Stars 32 INVESTING IN PEOPLE Teaching artist Danny Juarez is touching lives in an unconventional setting. 38 HOMETOWN COOKIN’ A step-by-step guide to the easiest and most delicious four-ingredient bread. No Dutch Oven necessary! 42 WARBIRD IN WICHITA FALLS The Wichita Falls community and Sheppard Air Force Base came together at the Guardians of Freedom Air Show with planes, games and daring stunts. 52 4-H SPOTLIGHT Meet Deacon Gann, Vice President of the Valley View 4-H Club and avid stock showman. 58 HOMETOWN HAPPENING The first-ever Light up the Night Car Show. 62 QUILTS MADE WITH LOVE The Red River Quilters’ Guild creates beauty, and invests it in the community. 68 HOMETOWN HAPPENING 2024 Sculpture Garden Exhibit Opening + Garden Party 72 HOMETOWN BUNDLES Join us in welcoming Wichita Falls’ newest residents. 78 HOMETOWN HAPPENING The 17th Annual Cajun Fest On the Cover 8 32 62 4 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

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6 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group H “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” - James 1:2-5 Taylor Grimm Wichita Falls Living Magazine© is published quarterly by Hometown Media Group, LLC. 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 Cindy Kahler Thomas Don Thompson Hannah Turner Taylor Grimm PHOTOGRAPHERS Cindy Kahler Thomas George Svoboda Nick Viggiano Torin Halsey Veronica Lopez Howdy Wichita Falls! MEDIA GROUP HOMETOWN H Casey Perkins Executive Publisher Taylor Grimm Marketing & Client Relations taylor@hometownmedia.group Susan Avery Lead Creative Design Kayla Durham Sales Account Executive kayla@hometownmedia.group Camela Dietrich Accounts Recievable accounting@hometownmedia.group Happy Summer! I, like Kayla described in the spring issue, become dedicated to my garden pursuits in this season. It is so restful for my mind, and if you’re anti-processed food like me, you understand the immense satisfaction of growing what you consume. After planting seeds I patiently waited for weeks to enjoy the fruit they’d bear. You can imagine my disappointment when the first few rounds of zucchini and squash just shriveled up on the vine halfway to ripeness. I realized their flowers weren’t being properly pollinated (which sent me down the #SaveThePollinators trail) and learned how to remedy that. Thus began my new routine: every morning while the blooms were still open I use a small paintbrush to transfer pollen from male flowers to the fruit-bearing females. This works pretty well, by the way, but I also planted and seeded flowers nearby to help attract the pollinators to my little garden area. I quickly started harvesting squash and zucchini–enough to share! Then, one evening I came out to find a few monarch butterfly caterpillars chewing up my brussel sprouts. I relocated them, hoping they’d be satisfied with the new menu and went about tending my plants. The next day I returned to find one brussel plant a skeleton, and the other with massive holes. There were caterpillars everywhere. Dozens. I thought, do I save my brussels or help #SaveThePollinators? As you can probably tell by the images, I decided to let them be. While I may not have any home-grown brussel sprouts this season I am hoping my small sacrifice will allow me to see the transformation of all these little pollinators. It’s so cool to watch them grow so quickly. Instead of being upset about my “crop” I’ve decided to enjoy this front row seat nature and The Lord gave me. I’ve thought about this for a couple days now and I wonder how many times a change in circumstance [that’s perfectly in God’s control] has been allowed to control my emotion? And If there is more to gain from plans gone awry than the initial disappointment? The more I apply this mindset all around me, the more positive I see my outlook become. I intend to continue this trend of faster, more positive thinking. I hope next time life throws you a curveball you are encouraged to seek its beauty; find the up-side. Make lemonade out of lemons as they say. No doubt–stick to your goals and plans–but don’t become so absorbed in them that you fail to acknowledge the needs of those around you. I hope you enjoy our summer issue, thanks for reading. P.S. Pollinators are necessary or all ecosystems collapse. #SaveThePollinators COVER PHOTO Cindy Kahler Thomas

8 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group HONORING VETERANS IN HOSPICE CARE WRITTEN BY DON THOMPSON PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MICHELE HOUCK, HOSPICE OF WICHITA FALLS AND DR. ALAN QUEVY WWhen the health of Michele Houck’s father, a retired Navy veteran living in Baltimore, Maryland, deteriorated and he went into hospice care, Michele returned to Baltimore to be by his side during his time in hospice. Michele said, “When Gilchrist asked my brother and I if we would like a ‘Salute to Service’ ceremony for our father, we were like, what’s that? After they explained what it was, we said, oh, yeah, absolutely,” Michele said. The Salute to Service program organizes volunteers who served in the U.S. military to host special ceremonies for seriously ill or dying veterans, to honor them before they pass—for their service and sacrifice to our country. A final display of appreciation for all they’ve done. Michele and her brother were deeply touched by the Salute to Service ceremony for their father. He passed away five days TO SERVICE A Salute

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after, but the experience ignited a passion within Michele. “When Gilchrist was doing the Salute to Service for my father, we all forgot that he was dying. I want other families to feel the same way my brother and I felt that day and how important it was to our father to be honored like that,” Michele said. Michele was so inspired that when she returned to Wichita Falls she began establishing the Salute to Service program for veterans here. She contacted Hospice of Wichita Falls and learned they had a program that honored veterans, but they were receptive to her new program. Michele called on contacts she’s made over the last 30 years as a Wichita Falls resident and wife to an Airforce Veteran. Between her husband, Mike’s, career and her knowledge of military protocol from 21 years in civil service at Sheppard Air Force Base, she had the experience and knowledge to organize the program. With the support of her brother, Gilchrist Center in Maryland, and Hospice of Wichita Falls, the Salute to Service here in Wichita Falls was established. Today, Michele has a team of 18 volunteers with unique service experience. The group is made up of active duty, retired military, guard and reservists from all different branches of the military and varying 10 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

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12 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group ranks, including a Colonel, a Chief Master Sergeant and so on. The veterans on the team present a special pin, a certificate, and a handmade quilt from hospice, following a well-structured script, ensuring each is a memorable and dignified tribute to the veterans they honor. Thank You cards from local 4th grade students are also presented. And of course, the veterans talk and reminisce about their time and experiences serving the country. “The cards from the 4th grade students, thanking them for their service, seems to really touch the honorees,” Michele said. “The students draw pictures of the vets, the flag, and write messages in the cards.” Barry Alcorn, one of the volunteer team members and a retired Air Force Master Sergeant, has been on the team about six months. “This has been a humbling experience,” he said. “It is a lot about the families of the vets we’re honoring. The families may get as much out of the experience as the vets. When the volunteers turn up to honor their family member, it’s a very impactful experience. It’s not just a pat on the back. It’s an honor to do something like this for our fellow members of the armed forces. I’ve done at least three services in

the last six months. It’s not about us volunteers, it’s about honoring the vets in hospice. When Michele calls, I’ll be there.” Each volunteer has a role—to say a prayer, recite the pledge of allegiance, sing the song of that branch of the military, or make special comments. Courtney Galloway, Director of Social Services at Hospice of Wichita Falls, notes that the hospice center had a program in place for about 15 years, the “We Honor Veterans” program through the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO), but when hospice saw the Salute to Service program, they were excited about it and decided to incorporate this into their existing program. One of the services already in place for veterans is the presentation of a handmade quilt. Volunteers make patriotic quilts for the veterans. The quilts highlight their service, rank, war time service, and other points of the vet’s military career. “The quilts are beautiful, intricate, and mean so much to the veterans and their families,” Courtney said. “I have seen the quilts on display in the veterans’ homes, hanging on the wall, and proudly displayed at their memorial service.” “It means so much to the families also; for the other vets to recognize them and thank them for the decision they made so many years ago to protect our country. We don’t want to forget that sacrifice. The families of vets make sacrifices too,” Courtney said. The program can be done in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, homes, or at the hospice center. To volunteer to be a Salute to Service team member, contact Michele Houck at houckmichele12@ gmail.com. For more information on ceremonies for veterans in Hospice of Wichita Falls care, contact Courtney Galloway at 940-691-0982. † 13 hometown living at its best

14 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group TAKING YOUR SKIN HIGH-QUALITY MEDICAL CARE WITH A HOLISTIC APPROACH 2601 Harrison St. Ste. 500 | Wichita Falls, TX 76308 | 940-322-9606 www.heightsskin.com | @heightsderm_wichita_falls | Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm i SKIN CANCER SCREENINGS + FULL BODY SKIN EXAMS Don’t skip important preventative measures against skin cancer. Our licensed providers provide the patient with a comprehensive full body, head-to-toe skin exam. Everyone, regardless of age is recommended to have these preventative skin exams at least once a year. If there is a family history or personal history of Melanoma and/or Squamous or Basal Cell Cancer, we do recommend more than one screening per year. We are set apart by our personable approach to healthcare for patients of all ages. Your needs and wishes are first while providing the most current treatments and therapies. We are seeking to partner with and employ military family members either transitioning to civilian life or those just transferring to Sheppard Air Force Base for the first time. • ACNE • SKIN CANCER • PSORIASIS • HAIR LOSS • RASHES MEDICAL AND SURGICAL DERMATOLOGY • DERMATITIS • SKIN SCREENING • ECZEMA • MOLE REMOVAL • SKIN CANCER REMOVAL DR. TEJAS DESAI Board-Certified Dermatologist and Fellowship Trained Mohs Micrographic Surgeon to Greater Heights ROBIN EGAN, PA-C is a Physician Associate specializing in Dermatology for patients of all ages. She also has a background in Neurosurgery and Emergency Medicine. Prior to earning her PA certification at the Wake Forest University School of Medicine in 2016, she served as an Air Force Intelligence officer for 7 years. She received her Masters of Science in Nutrition in 2010 while on active duty. Robin is married to an Air Force pilot and has two young children. In her free time, she enjoys family movie nights, traveling, concerts, playing piano and watching football. Introducing to the Team

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16 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 at content@hometownmedia.group HOMETOWN 4 1 2 3 5

17 hometown living at its best 1. James Daniel Lopez | Vernon High School Veronica Lopez Photography 2. Linley Carlton | Holiday High School Imagery By Carissa 3. Nathaniel Donaghey | Electra High School Dea Buchanan Photography 4. Eyan Rodriguez | S.H Rider High School S. Myers Photography 5. Cape Johnson | Rider High School Casey Oliver Photography 6. Brady Rhoden | Iowa Park High School BB Photography 7. John “Aden” Lewis Barker | Iowa Park High School RB Photography 8. Joshua Eakin | Rider High School Heather Marrs Photography “Nothing is impossible. The word itself says, ‘I’M POSSIBLE!’” — Audrey Hepburn 6 7 8

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19 hometown living at its best WRITTEN BY HANNAH TURNER | PHOTOS BY THE KEMP, RIVER BEND NATURE CENTER, AND HMG making SUMMER learning fun Did you know students lose about a month’s worth of their hard-earned learning over the summer months, according to a study published by the American Educational Research Association? But this doesn’t have to be the case! Read on to see how learning can fit into your family’s summer rhythms and routines while creating meaningful memories, not to mention putting your students ahead for next school year or giving your preschoolers a head start!

Reading is one of the subjects most affected by “the summer slide” with elementary students losing about 20% of their progress over the summer, according to Scholastic. So, when the North Texas sun gets too hot to handle, beat the heat and bolster reading progress by visiting your local library! The Wichita Falls Public Library has reading challenges for students ages 0-18 and even has a category for adults. As part of the challenges kids can log their reading, gain digital badges along the way, and win prizes. Not to mention all of the other fun (free!) activities for students of all ages—from book clubs to crafts, and toddler story time to video game nights! Many area libraries have summer programming happening now, so check your local library website or Facebook page for details on what is available near you. ReaDinG Planning on going somewhere new this summer? Turn your road trip into a field trip by reading up on local species before you hit the road for the ultimate game of I spy, or make a pit stop at the visitor’s center for information on local flora, fauna, geography and history. If you're staying close to home, visit the trails at one of the many local parks or River Bend Nature Center to spot local wildlife and plant species, and don’t miss the engaging seasonal events and exhibits RBNC hosts for all ages! Speaking of local plant species, nothing is quite as local as your backyard or patio. Now is a great time to start planning and planting your fall garden! Pepper, tomato, squash and pumpkin plants grow well when planted in summer3 and give your child the opportunity to experiment with different conditions for their plants, watch the life cycle in action and enjoy the fruits of their labor too! SCIEnCE 20 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

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22 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group The learning continues when you bring your garden bounty inside: Incorporating math in your child’s day can as easy as including them in something already on your to-do list: making dinner! Include your student in the grocery buying process, whether at the local grocery store or downtown farmer’s market. Make a list of ingredients you will need, create a budget, then have them add up the items you pick up along the way. As you make the meal, have students work on reading measurements from the recipe (bonus points if you double it and save a portion for later!) Keep an eye on the clock to track cooking time then enjoy as a family. According to The Family Dinner Project4, regular family dinners are beneficial far beyond sharpening math skills. Eating as a family is correlated with marked increases in mental health, physical health, social skills and even literacy skills in children of all ages. What better reasons to get kids in the kitchen?! And a reminder: this is not just for littles! Having teenagers and beyond help with mealtime sets them up for success as they learn to set their own budgets and prepare food for themselves, family and friends. MATH

When in doubt, break the art supplies out! Have kids reflect on one of their summer experiences for inspiration or let them freestyle and see the creations they dream up in paint, marker or clay. Studies show participating in arts and crafts at home improves critical thinking, fine motor skills, and more.5 Later on, get everyone out of the house for a stroll around the Sikes Lake walking trail then head into the AC to view the incredible art exhibitions that rotate seasonally at the Wichita Falls Museum of Art at Midwestern State University or participate in one of their free educational programs (RSVP required). The Kemp Center for the Arts downtown Wichita Falls also offers resources for students of all ages (and adults too!) to experience work by local artists and even make art of their own at workshops as well as a full slate of summer camp offerings. Opportunities for summer learning abound, but the most important component is engaging students in conversation about the world around them. Incorporate some of these summer learning tactics, and come August, your kid’s memory bank (and their new teacher) will thank you! † ART 23 hometown living at its best

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HOMETOWN Happenings

27 hometown living at its best Photos provided by Dr. Leah Goose and the Kemp Center for the Arts Wichita Falls saddled up for an authentic cowboy chuckwagon dinner experience celebrating Cowboy True: Dinner Under The Stars at the Kemp Center for the Arts on April 13th. Cowboy True is a cultural initiative celebrating working cowboys and the culture and artistry built from their daily lives. 2023 marks the 13th year of the Arts Council WF hosting this program. Guests of the evening enjoyed an outdoor culinary show led by Bit Pruitt and Darrell Arndt, with a hearty steak and all the fixin’s provided by From The Wagon. The visiting cowboy and frontier re-enactors also gave the dinner extra flavor and historical appeal. Dr. Robert and Katie Parkey entertained with cowboy (and girl) poetry and songs and as dusk fell on to the crowd, singer/songwriter Terry Brown took the stage with country music classics and originals. Cowboy and western art was ever present, with the Kemp Center galleries open for viewing. Featured exhibits included the Jack Stevens Legacy Exhibit and Cowboy True Featured Artist for 2024 Mary Cardwell and her pencil drawings. The Arts Council WF also partnered with MSU Lamar D. Fain College of Fine Arts students to also provide live drawing and painting demonstrations throughout the evening. Grace Ainsworth, Sarah Mosca, and Faith Warner each chose their own western imagery and visited with guests on their process and techniques. All three artworks were raffled off to three lucky winners at the end of the night! For more information on Cowboy True and upcoming arts and culture events, visit artscouncilwf.org/cowboytrue. DINNER UNDER THE STARS Cowboy True

HOMETOWN Happenings

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31 hometown living at its best FIND YOUR FUN FIND YOUR Y DILLARD EARLY LEARNING & YOUTH ACADEMY 5001 Bartley Drive Wichita Falls, TX 76302 (940) 855-2301 YMCAWF.ORG 2024 SUMMER DAY CAMP 10 Weeks available | June 3rd - August 9th

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33 hometown living at its best D Danny Juarez is a teaching artist with many irons in the fire, but his favorite? Teaching in the Wichita County Jail Annex Facility. WRITTEN BY CINDY KAHLER THOMAS PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE JUAREZ FAMILY AND CINDY KAHLER THOMAS PEOPLE Investing in Danny Juarez is an artist who uses his creativity to help others. “I am a local teaching artist,” Danny said. “I collaborate on projects with organizations including 9th Street Studios, the Alliance for Arts and Culture, the Kemp Center for Arts, the Wichita Falls Museum at MSU, Wichita Falls Art Association, Museum of Texas Tech, and the WFISD and many others.” Although Danny teaches many different programs, the one that is near and dear to his heart is the Art in Transition (AIT) program. Sponsored by the Arts Council of Wichita Falls, the AIT program gives inmates at the Wichita County Jail Annex Facility an opportunity to attend art classes. Danny said, “Don’t get me wrong I love the other things I do too, but this is by far the thing that I love doing the most—because it’s with the inmates.” He said art is the one area where they get to challenge themselves, get creative, and express themselves. “They really appreciate it,” he said. “They are so grateful that they get to be there. They have a lot of gratitude. I am really, really grateful to be there too.” Danny has been teaching the class weekly for years now. Over time, the program added two additional days and Danny was joined by fellow artists, Ramona Stegal and Anthony Campos. Recently, the program expanded again to include a sister initiative at the Wichita Falls Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Center. Danny and Ramona teach art here to middle and high school students.

The program seems to be a success with all parties involved. Danny said, “We have gotten a lot of positive feedback from the inmates, and [staff at] the Wichita County Jail Facility. It gives them a chance to express themselves and an avenue to be creative.” Danny said his student’s desires are deeper than just art—they want exposure to something different than what they are used to. “You just know that they are eager to learn. Sometimes when you teach things, you can only go so far, but with the inmates it is different. I really get the most out of it. You feel like you are definitely making an impact on someone,” Danny said with passion. “It is a wonderful feeling that I get. They just absorb information and they want to learn everything they can.” Students at the jail even wish they could explore more with different types of art, Danny said. “That is the one thing I hear more is that they want to do more stuff and explore more, but we do the best that we can within the parameters that we have available.” Fortunately, the inmates have many other opportunities to keep themselves busy. There are other programs like GED classes and Bible studies to name a couple. Danny said, “Those programs mean a lot because they don’t 34 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

35 hometown living at its best “You just know that they are eager to learn. Sometimes when you teach things, you can only go so far, but with the inmates it is different. I really get the most out of it. You feel like you are definitely making an impact on someone. It is a wonderful feeling that I get. They just absorb information and they want to learn everything they can.” - Danny Juarez

36 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group “I would hope that people wouldn’t want to put them in there and throw away the key and walk away. We still need to invest in people. I have made so many mistakes in my lifetime that some people thought I was a lost cause. I know it is just an art class, but I think it is more than that. It is character building and it builds self-esteem.” - Danny Juarez

37 hometown living at its best have many things that they have access to. To be a part of that is very gratifying. It is a two-way street for me and I believe for them too. It is the most gratifying thing I do.” Danny said despite the mistakes they make people deserve the chance to redeem themselves and the programs to be able to get there. “Some mistakes are bigger than others, but in the end people are people. Yes, they do have to pay for their crimes, but everyone deserves a second chance.” Danny said. Danny is hopeful the arts and various initiatives will help the inmates realize a better path is within reach. “It's not that I think an art program is going to turn them into model Boy Scouts, but an art program or a GED program can help people realize that they can better themselves,” he said. “I had an inmate tell me one time, 'Wow, I didn’t know that I could draw anything, but now I feel like I can, and I am coming back!’” These types of programs are the foundational steps to reform that positively impact the entire community. “Eventually, they are going to get out and maybe they will get training and get a job instead of going back to crime,” Danny said. “I would hope that people wouldn’t want to put them in there and throw away the key and walk away. We still need to invest in people. I have made so many mistakes in my lifetime that some people thought I was a lost cause. I know it is just an art class, but I think it is more than that. It is character building and it builds self-esteem.” For more information on the Art in Transition program, visit artscouncilwf.org. †

QUICK AND EASY 4 INGREDIENT BREAD Get your ingredients. 1 packet instant yeast ½ teaspoon salt 1 ½ cup warm water 3 ¼ cup flour Combine 1 packet of yeast and ½ teaspoon salt. Heat water to 120 degrees **tip, the warmer the water, the less your rise time. Heat water to 120 degrees for 2-hour rise time. 1 2 3 38 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

Add 1 ½ cup warm water and stir. Add 3 ¼ cup flour. Stir until everything is combined. Leave dough in bowl to proof. Cover (I use a kitchen towel) and set in the oven or a warm spot to rise. After proofing for 2-hours. After rising, flour a piece of parchment paper and roll dough out of bowl. Form a dough ball, working dough slightly. Score and place preheated dutch oven back into the oven. Bake covered for 35 minutes Remove lid and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until crust is the desired level of golden-crispiness. 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 39 hometown living at its best

Through compassionate, individualized, Resident-First care, our community is here to assist in continuing your story and supporting your future. We provide the help you need and truly cater to you, so you can focus on your future memories with loved ones. Love where you live as you embrace our community and the many amenities we provide! AL #307126 MC #104616 940.245.5311 ElisonGraham.com 1015 Cliff Dr., Graham, TX 76450 940.308.2641 ElisonLakeWellington.com 5100 Kell W Blvd. Wichita Falls, TX 76310 #307124 Chef-Prepared Meals Lakefront Gazebo Barber Shop & Salon Resident Centered Care Active Lifestyle Calendar Walking Paths Pet Friendly 40 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

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WRITTEN BY CINDY KAHLER THOMAS PHOTOS BY NICK VIGGIANO, CINDY KAHLER THOMAS, AND GEORGE SVOBODA WARBIRDS in Wichita Falls 42 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

THE WICHITA FALLS COMMUNITY AND SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE CAME TOGETHER APRIL 26-28 FOR A FULL WEEKEND OF ACTIVITY AT THE GUARDIANS OF FREEDOM AIR SHOW WITH PLANES, GAMES, AND DARING STUNTS. 43 hometown living at its best

44 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group TThe weekend of fun started with a Preflight Festival and Market, hosted by The Wichita Falls Alliance for Arts and Cultures, Midwestern State University, The Museum of Art at MSU, The YMCA, and The Wichita Falls Chamber of Commerce. During this free, community-wide celebration, there was a live DJ, 40 vendors at the Artist & Farmer’s Market, and local food trucks. Families and students enjoyed interactive games, crafts, and inflatables. The thrilling part was the chance to meet and take pictures with the airshow performers and reallife Guardians of Freedom Heroes from Sheppard Air Force Base who were strolling through the event. Saturday night after the air show, there was a welcome party at a local downtown business called Wichita Falls Brewing Company. Saturday and Sunday the air show took place with huge crowds in attendance. 44 aircraft flew in for the show. Some of the attractions were the Golden Knights, which do precision parachute demonstrations. 18 members of the squad jumped out of the planes to show their prowess and skills to a watchful crowd.

45 hometown living at its best 45 “I really liked watching it through my toddler, Lila, eyes’. She wanted to see the inside of the planes. She was talking about the “pirate plane.” I thought she was saying pilot, but then I found this plane with a skull and crossbones on it. Sitting under the pirate plane, eating snacks and watching the Thunderbirds was definitely my favorite part. The Thunderbirds were awesome as always! Air shows always make me feel like a kid. Every time they fly over you it is just so loud and exciting. You hear them in one direction and see them in another because of how fast they are.” - Jake VanDonge.

46 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group There were also a team of wing walkers, who did just that—they walked on the wings of a red biplane plane. They were called Third Strike and they performed daring feats of courage. Not only did they get out of the plane to do stunts, but the plane did stunts while the walkers were on it. Director for Guardians of Freedom Open House and Airshow, Jeff Guiterrez, said they showcased aircraft from a couple of eras. “The WWII aircraft were showcased which is significant with the anniversary of Normandy. During the middle of the show, it is really focused on the WWII heritage.” Guiterrez said, “One that was really fun is the C47 out of Frederick, Oklahoma, and they did a WWII demonstration of a mass parachute jump. They wore WWII uniforms and used WWII area parachutes. It was a real-life reenactment of what Americans did eight decades ago. We also had planes from the WWII area that were large planes like the P35. There were also the small attack planes like the P40." “It was my first experience of an airshow, and I enjoyed it! My favorite was the wing walkers. That was great. I know nothing about it, but it made me anxious. I wonder how you get started in something like that. I could never do it.” - Eliana Pinkerton

47 hometown living at its best It was very interesting and kids are loving getting in the planes and helicopter. They are really enjoying it.” - Willmarie Rivera

“We watched all the planes go by. And the kids felt how loud they were up close. This plane with its engines on is exciting. I think this is the closest I have ever been to plane with its engines on.” - Shanda Williams 48 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

49 hometown living at its best There was a lot happening on the ground as well. There was a helicopter and even an actual Thunderbird with airmen allowing children to climb up to and sit in the cockpit. There were many different kinds of aircraft to walk under, get close to touch and even one that had its engines on low, so, that people could experience that thrill too. Of course, the headliners and finale were the Thunderbirds. The team did not disappoint. Their choreographed flight patterns were executed with precision. The sounds of the pack of planes thrilled the crowd and brought about cheers. Strangers, friends and family all came together with American pride. Guiterrez said many people come to airshows because of pride. “Pride in their community, in the sense that we live in a place where the community and the base have intertwined and can do really amazing things together,” he said. He said it’s a special thing for the community to experience and hopes they will. “The other thing is pride in being an American,” he said. “You get to come out here and see that people raise their right hand and say “I will protect and defend the constitution of the United States” and they represent the best of us. I would say you should come out here and experience that, so, that when you go home at night you just feel better about the country we live in and the people that are serving in it,” Jeff said with passion. †

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DEACON GANN photos provided by bailey gann 4-H SPOTLIGHT

53 hometown living at its best PARENT: Bailey Gann 4-H CLUB: Valley View 4-H WHERE DO YOU LIVE: Iowa Park HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED IN 4-H PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS? I’ve been in 4-H for 8 years. I joined when I was in 3rd grade at Bradford Elementary in Iowa Park. WHAT 4-H ACTIVITIES ARE YOU INVOLVED IN? I participate in Livestock Judging where I’m a member of our team that’s qualified for State 4-H Roundup 3 years in a row, AG Product ID, and I show lambs and goats at all the big Major Stock Shows and have made sale spots. ARE YOU AN OFFICER? IF SO, WHICH POSITION? I’m currently the Vice President of Valley View 4-H Club and a Wichita County 4-H Ambassador.

WHERE HAVE YOU COMPETED AND WHAT AWARDS HAVE YOU WON? In 4-H, I have competed at many Livestock Judging and Ag I.D contests. Through livestock Judging, I have competed at the District and State level. Over the years, my team has gotten 2nd and 3rd along with me placing 3rd high individual and qualifying for state where last year my team was 8th in the swine division. Through Ag I.D, my team has gotten 2nd and I was 4th high individual. OTHER GROUPS/ORGANIZATIONS YOU’RE INVOLVED IN? Another organization I am involved in is FFA where I also show, livestock judge, and do speaking events. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE AND LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOUR 4-H PROJECTS? I would have to say my favorite thing about showing is the reward for hard work and the friends/ relationships made. My least favorite thing has to be the troubles that come every year such as health issues and fungus being in the barn. HOW HAS BEING A PART OF 4-H PROGRAMS PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE/GOALS? 4-H programs have prepared me for my future by teaching me life skills and helping me meet new people for possible connections when I’m older. WHY IS BEING IN 4-H IMPORTANT TO YOU? Being in 4-H is important to me because it has taught me things most organizations don’t, and I think it is a great way to make new friends and build your future. WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THINKING ABOUT JOINING 4-H TO PERSUADE THEM TO JOIN? What I would tell someone who is thinking about going 4-H is that it will be worth your time and that there is so many things you can learn and try, you will make many friends along the way and will have fun at contests, meetings, and events that you go to. 54 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

55 hometown living at its best WHO IS YOUR MENTOR? I would have to say my mentor is my Grandfather who I call Pa, he has always been there for me and supported me in everything I do. He has taught me many things in life and is a hard worker. WHAT DO YOU WANT TO DO WHEN YOU GROW UP? When I grow up I would like to raise livestock but before that, I would like to attend college and livestock judge at the collegiate level. TELL US A FUNNY STORY ABOUT SOMETHING THAT HAPPENED: Something that I think was funny now that I look back on it is when I was in 6th grade I was at the Houston Livestock Show when COVID shut everything down. We were not allowed to leave the building or we would not be allowed back in, they decided to continue with the show but I did not have my show clothes. I ended up having to wear a girl’s show shirt that day but it paid off as I was able to make the sale with my goat. WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES/INTERESTS? Some of my hobbies are showing, judging, hunting, and fishing. I love to do all these things and have lots of fun doing these things with friends and family. Some of my interests are learning more about livestock production and eventually having an operation of my own. COMMENTS/WORDS OF WISDOM OR ADVICE: “Even when you think there is no possible way to do something, look to God and he will show you what you need to reach that goal.”

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HOMETOWN Happenings Photos by Nick Viggiano Wichita Falls witnessed Car Show History on Saturday, May 18, 2024. Brian Marks hosted a first-of-its-kind car and night-time light show. There was a great turnout of 95 entries and hundreds of attendees, with awards going to the top 30 entries of the show, and awards for the top five lighting displays. Aside from a variety of hot rods or classics, there was a variety of food and live music for the entire family to enjoy. For more information on next year’s show, find Light up the Night Spring Car Show on Facebook. Light it Up CAR SHOW

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SERVICE YOU CAN TRUST INTERNET PHONE BUSINESS I.T. . . Scan QR code for info 60 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

Invested in our community for generations. Presenting sponsor of Hotter ‘N Hell Hundred 3910 WAYNE AVE STE 104 | WICHITA FALLS, TX 76308 940.691.0281 | WWW.KBONDJEWELERS.COM 61 hometown living at its best

The Red River Quilters’ Guild is an organization that not only creates beauty, but gives back to the community. WRITTEN BY CINDY KAHLER THOMAS | PHOTOS COURTESY OF AUBREY BEE & GINGER METCALF QUILTS made with Love W 62 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group

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64 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group FFormed in the 1980s, The Red River Quilters’ Guild has spent the last 30+ years creating quilts for community members and organizations in need. President of the guild Ginger Metcalf explained that the quilts are created for a variety of organizations like the Comfort Quilt program and Quilts of Valor. The Comfort Quilt program provides quilts to various entities like Patsy’s House for the Children, the fire department, and the police department. Ginger said, “We have a member whose son is a chaplain in the Fire Department. He keeps quilts on hand because he responds to a lot of house fires and that type of thing.” The guild also gives quilts to Faith Refuge, which facilitates a program to help women get back on their feet. Once the ladies graduate they are given the quilts. Ginger said, “We got a thank you note from a woman who graduated from that program. In it she said that she had gotten her first apartment, and nothing made her happier than to spread that quilt out on her bed.” They make about 100 comfort quilts a year. To provide materials for the program they ask for donations of fabric, which often comes from other quilters and is then sorted through and distributed to the members. Another program the guild provides quilts for is the Quilts of Valor. These quilts were first created by a quilter whose son was in a war zone in 2003. She had no way to comfort him until she had the idea to send a red, white, and blue quilt. It worked so she got a few of her friends involved and they started making quilts with the colors of the American Flag. It is now a national program.

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66 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group “Various members will make them,” Ginger said. “They may have their own designs, or they can pick a pattern as long as they are made out of red, white, and blue fabric. We have a lot of outstanding quilts made. We put a lot of love in those quilts.” Ginger said originally the quilts were made for anyone who had been in a war, but it quickly widened to honor anyone who had been in the military. “We call them veteran’s quilts and 4 times last year, we had Quilts of Valor ceremonies,” Ginger said. One of the places that they were awarded was University Park Nursing Home. “It is one of the nursing homes in town that is Veterans Administration certified. That means that the VA helps pay for the cost for certain veterans to be there,” she shared. During the ceremony, veterans are presented with quilts and a certificate stating how thankful we are that they served to keep our country safe. Ginger said that out of all the veterans there, there was only one marine. That veteran had served in the Vietnam War. He was moved to tears because in all these years, no one had ever said ‘thank you’ to him. “So, that’s why we do it!” Ginger exclaimed. The quilters want those veterans to know how appreciative they are to those who have been in war zones or not. Ginger and some of the members, or their wives or children, are veterans. The members of the guild work all year to make enough to give away. Ginger estimates that 40 Quilts of Valor were presented to veterans from Veterans Day to early December. 40 QUILTS OF VALOR WERE PRESENTED TO VETERANS FROM VETERANS DAY TO EARLY DECEMBER

67 hometown living at its best The guild hosts a quilt show once a year in May at the MPEC, and meets twice a month. One meeting is to have their own show and tell, and the other is a workshop where they learn a new technique. They have instructors come to teach, or if a member designs a new pattern she will teach it to the group. The members sew together, and Ginger said that it is wonderful to meet with like-minded people to do what they love. There is a sense of comradery amongst the quilters that they’ve all come to cherish. For more information on quilting with them or donating materials, visit their site wichitafallsguild.org. †

HOMETOWN Happenings Photos by Torin Halsey Congratulations are in order for the 2024-25 Sculpture Garden artists whose work will be featured on the grounds of the Kemp Center for the Arts until May 2025! The Arts Council WF celebrated the 20th anniversary of this exhibit on May 11th with the visiting artists and invited the community to meet them and enjoy the artwork. Rotating outdoor sculptural pieces are juried for 12 months of exhibition starting each year in May. Artists are accepted from across North America, offering an international art experience with small-town charm. Work is displayed in the peaceful downtown garden setting, which is open to the public and free of charge. 2024 Sculpture Garden EXHIBIT OPENING + GARDEN PARTY

Featured Artists: Olaniyi Akindiya from Pflugerville, TX - IMOLE - Illuminate #3 Robbie Barber from Waco, TX - Stroll in the Park Joe Barrington from Throckmorton, TX - West Texas Shaman Susan Budge from Pattison, TX - Harvey Danville Chadbourne from San Antonio, TX - The Persistent Echo of the Haunted Night Dave Clark from Tomball, TX - Tri-PODS - 1st Place Pascale Pryor from Dallas, TX - Chameleon Jim Robertson from Trinity, TX - Voodoo Jet - 2nd Place Russell Whiting from Breaux Bridge, LA - Zeus - 3rd Place Installer - B.C. Gilbert Juror & Judge - Sharon Kopriva 69 hometown living at its best

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JOIN OUR TEAM We’re Hiring! Do you want more than just a job? Are you looking for uncapped earnings that directly reflect your hard work? If so, WE WANT to hear from YOU! We are currently seeking a sales representative for the Wichita Falls area. Please send your resume to casey@hometownmedia.group or call 817.599.6167 to learn more. 71 hometown living at its best

72 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group Join us in welcoming Wichita Falls’ newest residents! Have your photographer share your sweet bundle with us for future issues, content@hometownmedia.group. 7 2 3 6 BUNDLES OF HOMETOWN 4 5 1

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75 hometown living at its best 1. Sunday | Parents: Christian & Dakota Okeke 2. Lawsyn | Parents: Carter & Lainie Crain 3. Rowynn | Parents: Rainey & April Moyers 4. Riley & Kenley | Parents: Brandt & Kenda O’Neal 5. Johnny | Parents: Jason Rodriguez & Jessie Marvin 6. Luca | Parents: Juan & Brook Gardea 7. Eli | Parents: Ross & Miki Tucker 8. Kori | Parents: Koby & Kayla Dickerson 9. Maximiliana | Parents: Alfonso & Patricia Munoz 10. Shai | Parents: Kendall & Alexis Jones 11. Jack | Parents: Stephen & Marissa Santellana 12. Logan | Parents: Lucas & Shelbie Mulholland 13. Evelyn | Parents: Chase & Sierra Cummings 14. Crue | Parents: Jackie & Mallory Sanders Photos by Jenna LaRue Photography 9 10 11 12 13 14

76 wichita falls living | hometownmedia.group 15. Lawson & Lainey | Parents: Seth & Paige Oliver 16. Addi | Parents: Kris & Kelli Tucker 17. Knash | Parents: Arthur & Sydnie Ridinger 18. Remi | Parents: Evan & Tasia Skinner 19. Exie | Parents: Patrick & Flora Street 20. Alyiah | Parents: Fred Fleeks & Ashantii Jarrett Photos by Jenna LaRue Photography 16 18 15 17 20 19

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HOMETOWN Happenings

79 hometown living at its best Photos provided by Jeanette Charos For the past 16 years, a little bit of Louisiana has come to Wichita Falls, and the rain didn't stop Cajun Fest this year! Held on April 20th at the J.S. Bridwell Ag Center. Attendees participated in new activities this year, such as the Bayou Rougarou slow bike Race, a Tug-O-War tournament, and of course, went to town on the popular crawfish eating contest and mullet contest. We all know the main reason folks come to Cajun Fest, is the food! Vendors served the classic favorites: crawfish, gumbo, jambalaya, étouffée', shrimp and grits, fried fish, and boudin. There were also creative Cajun takes on fries, hot dogs, corn, and more. Downtown Wichita Falls Development saw smaller crowds in March for the St. Patrick's Day Downtown Street Festival and knew if they wanted to hit their fundraising goal for the year, a change was needed. Not only did they reach their goal, they made up for part of the loss in March. Doors opened at 11 am with a line growing around the Center, and a thrilled DWFD staff and Cajun Fest committee to welcome them. Funds raised from the event help continue the nonprofit's mission of improving downtown, enticing new businesses and residents, and growing the economic base of our community. Cajun Fest

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