WFL Winter 2022

hometown living at its best

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4-H SPOTLIGHT Wichita Falls Living is thrilled to highlight Max & Graham, sons of Mike & Amy Fischer. These brothers are members of the Burkburnett 4-H Club. Check out these bright young people and the hard work they are doing. REASONS TO SMILE AGAIN Hospice of Wichita Falls’ Camp Grin Again restores hope for children suffering from loss. 14

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35 32, 50, 68, 88 HOMETOWNHAPPENINGS

WOMEN YOU SHOULD KNOW Meet some dynamic women that are driven and have a passion for business in our community.

See who has been out and about around town these past few months. And don’t forget to share YOUR EVENT’S happenings with us for the next edition of WFL.

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52 THERE IS NO PLACE LIKE HOME Hometown girl, Sarah Langston, has returned toWichita Falls to use her talents as an osteopathic physician who takes a wholistic approach to treating patients of all ages.

62, 92 HOMETOWN BUNDLES

Wehave3 times thebabies this edition!! Helpus towelcome the Falls’ newest residents and don’t forget to use these talented photographers for your upcoming bundle of joy. On the Cover Henry, Parents Travis and Madison Penney Photo by | Jenna LaRue Photography 69 HOWBIG IS TEXAS? A Lifelong Quest to Explore the Lone Star State. HABITS OF HIGHLY SUCCESSFULWOMEN Implement these top 10 tips to be a 10 in your personal and professional life!

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I f you are looking for a caring, qualified dentist inWichita Falls for your entire family, then look no further. From your first contact with our office, you will notice that The Art of Dentistry is not your typical dentistry. We’ve worked hard to build an exceptional team of dedicated, caring and experienced professionals committed to the dental health of you and your family. Sure, our entire team is committed to providing the best technical expertise in dentistry today, but in the big picture, that is not our primary motivation. Our real business is caring for real peoplewith a wide variety of individual dental concerns. So that’s where we start: With you!

Every detail of our practice is directed towardproviding theBESTIN-PATIENTCARE: from facilities, equipment, and techniques, to our experienced, friendly staff.We get toknow our patients as people, pay attention to their specific situations, listen to their individual concerns, and handle themwith care. At The Art of Dentistry , your comfort and confidence are just as important as your teeth. That’swhywe take great care of both the smile and the person behind it. Our mission is to provide the highest quality dentistry and patient care available. We offer a full range of treatment options that can be personalized to meet your unique needs and expectations.

DR. GRIFFIN, D.D.S.

Dr. Griffin grew up in East Texas and later moved toWichita Falls and attended Rider High School. He spent a year at Dallas Christian College studying ministry. Dr. Griffin received his B.S. degree fromMidwestern State University. He graduated Cum Laude in 2016. He earned his D.D.S. from the University of Oklahoma Health Science Center in Oklahoma City. He is also a member of the American Dental Academy. Dr. Griffin enjoys spending time with his wife Teran and two children, Elkin and Edalyah. The Griffin’s enjoy spending time outdoors. Dr. Griffin’s hobbies include hiking in the Wichita Mountains, camping, and fishing. Dr. Griffin is the nephew of Dr. Jackson.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:

• Advanced Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry • General Dentistry • Orthodontics • Teeth Whitening • Crown and Bridge • Veneers • Dental Implants

• Preventative Care • Periodontal Therapy • Al l on 4 Restorative Dentistry • Along with many others

We always welcome new patients of every age. Whether you are new to Wichita Falls or seeking an improved dental experience, we invite you to call our office for additional information. 940.691.6066

5 Eureka Circle, Suite A | Wichita Falls, TX 76308 | artofdentistrywf.com

The Falls Publisher’s Note

Hey Wichita!

Ring in the New Yea r

We are thrilled to

with the latest edition of Wichita Falls

Living featuring ! Readmore about how they got their start, secrets to their success, and the diverse ways they give back to this community after they clock out. Wichita Falls is an amazing place to call home - full of friendly people. We have so enjoyed having an area 4H spotlight & are glad to continue that into 2022. If your children are looking for a way to get involved beyond the typical sports arena check out FFA, FCCLA, and 4H in 2022! Women You Should Know

We are excited to announce that we have freelance positions available! If you are interested in writing for your hometown publication please contact us for more information. We are always on the hunt for additional photographers, both seasoned professional and those just starting out. Call today to inquire (office@hometown-living.com, 817.599.6167) about our rates and to submit samples of your photography. We want to thank our generous advertisers who make WFL possible by their participation in this publication. Let them know you saw their ad in this issue! Are you looking to advertise in PRINT or DIGITAL? Hometown Media Group can help you out! Matt, Heather, Gatlyn (10), Georgia Lee (7) & Guy David (2) Martin

Blessings to you in the New Year!

Heather Lundgren Martin & Team

2022 IS OFF & RUNNING!

“(1)In the Beginning was the Word & the Word was with God & the Word was God. (5) The Light shines in the darkness & the darkness has not overcome it.” - John 1:1,5

CLIENT RELATIONS COORDINATOR office@hometown-living.com

DIGITALMARKETING Tia Minzoni, VP of Digital Marketing

Subscribe to our monthly newsletter to get the W I C H I T A F A L L S Living Dish on the Falls Go to wichitafallsliving.com

WRITERS Sabrina Forse Rebecca Rister Rebecca Sankey

CREATIVE | DESIGN Susan Avery, Lead Robin Harrison, CG2

LEAD STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Teresa Barrett PHOTOGRAPHERS

PUBLISHERS Matt &Heather Martin Casey & Trisha Perkins ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE Bobbie Fulks

Wichita Falls Living Magazine © is published quarterly by HometownMedia Group, LLC. hometownmedia.group 502 NMain Street PMB 116 | Weatherford, TX 76086 817.599.6167 | PROUDLY PRINTED IN THE USA Carla Blanchard Photography *BUNDLES* Jenna LaRue Photography *BUNDLES* Chelsee Thomas *BUNDLES*

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.

F o l l ow u s @w i c h i t a f a l l s l i v i n g

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Smile Again H o s p i c e o f W i c h i t a F a l l s ’ C a m p G r i n A g a i n r e s t o r e s h o p e f o r c h i l d r e n s u f f e r i n g l o s s .

WRITTEN BY BECCA NELSON SANKEY / PHOTOS PROVIDED BY HOSPICE OF WICHITA FALLS

HOSPICEOFWICHITAFALLS’ CAMPGRINAGAIN helps children suffering fromthe loss of a loved one. It is there they learn coping skills and connectwith a support systemof peers who empathizewith the trials they’re facing. As the programname so aptly implies, they’re shown how to come to terms with the void in their lives and find a reason to smile again. Camp Grin Again is a free, weeklong, half-day bereavement camp held every summer for children from kindergarten age to teen, said Michaela Fielding, Children’s Program Specialist at Hospice of Wichita Falls. Building Bridges, its sister program, is held each fall and spring. In existence for over 20 years, Camp GrinAgainwas foundedwhenHospice ofWichita Falls saw a need for grieving childrenwhowere feeling alone as they navigated uncharted waters of loss. “Camp is all week long, so every single day they’re able to see the same kids and talk with them and dive into it andmake friendships and relationships with the facilitators,” Fielding said. “A lot of times theywant more and sign up for Building Bridges, which [has]… the same volunteers [and participants], so they’re able to continue their friendships and [feel that] support.” Both programs are open to every child, nomatter how long ago their loss occurred and regardless of whether their loved one received Hospice services. “It doesn’t matter what kind of loss they’ve had,” Fielding said. “We’ve seen lots of different types of loss, whether it’s immediate familymembers or friends. There are a lot of kids who come in andmaybe lost a parent or grandparent. The deaths are varied, fromCOVID-related deaths, to suicide, sibling deaths, a wide variety. Everyone has their own unique and special story.”

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Campers enjoyed relay racing tomake their own s’mores sandwich

CampGrinAgainprovidesage-appropriate curriculumto thedifferent agegroups, Fielding said, so children are split up into groups based on how old they are. “We teach the campers about lifelong skills that help them navigate through their ownunique grief. It incorporates coping skills, understanding mixed emotions that comewithgrief, acknowledging the death of their loved one. A lot of times - especially with the littles - they don’t understand the finality of death. We also help them to find an established support network…including hidden support they haven’t looked at in their life yet, just recognizing the tools available and realizing this is a journey, and it’s going to take time to heal.” Left: CampGrinAgain campers in July 2021 compared their fingerprints to tree rings and learned that each tree also has its own print. Just like the tree rings, our grief looks unique too.

“We teach the campers about lifelong skills

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In July 2021, Camp Grin Again campers traveled toWhisper Horses Farm, where campers enjoyed therapeutic horseback rides.

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“It’s apparent that the camp activities speak to the children, as the event has grown every year. usually we have 50 to 60 campers who register, but this [PAST SUMMER] we got some record-breaking numbers.”

Art therapy is part of the curriculum as well as outdoor activities that would be seen at any summer camp, but with bereavement coping skills incorporated – whether it’s discussing the loss and creating art that conveys emotion surrounding it, or engaging in team-building games that foster support and build relationships. “Every day we have a special activity,” Fielding said. “This past year, on Mondays we had the planetarium come, Tuesdays we went toWhispers of Hope Horse Farm, andonthe last dayfirst responders came out to show those kids that they’re not alone and that they’re here to support them. There’s a lot of kidswhohad lost people andsawpolice officers at the scene, so seeing them again at Camp Grin Again was an opportunity to view them in a different light.” It’sapparent that thecampactivitiesspeak to the children, as the event has grown every year. “Usually we have 50 to 60 campers who register, but this [past summer] we got some record-breaking numbers,” Fielding said. “We had 89 register, and 55 attend every day. We’re expecting the same amount - if notmore - next year. Building Bridges is usually about half the attendance of Camp Grin Again because it’s during the school year. For Fall, we had Above: Our Kinder-2nd grade campers write about “What Bugs You”, in relation to their grief. They create their own bugs and decorate them in art class.

Above: Campers of all age groups visited with Wichita Falls’ first- responders. Right: One of Camp Grin Again’s campers wrote about coping with grief in the “cope jar.”

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Campers said goodbye on the last day of Camp Grin Again.

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Wichita Falls’ Hospice staff and volunteers whomade Camp Grin Again 2021 possible.

32 register and 26 attend every Tuesday. This trend has presented the need and opportunity to host two camps in 2022.” WithCOVIDstill lingering last summer, “Wedefinitely were expecting either not a whole lot of people to come or a lot of people, and it turns out the kids were really wanting something, and we had a lot of inquiries and a lot of parents excited that we were doing it in person, and I think that’swhywe saw that big jump innumbers,” Fielding said. “The excitement of having not only the first in-person camp since COVID, and add in the fact that we were able to hold this camp at our newBereavement Center was extraordinary.”

Camp Grin Again is the only program of its kind in Wichita Falls and the surrounding area, Fielding said. “There’s such a need for this almost invisible mental health issue,” she said. “These kids are needing an outlet, but maybe they don’t know how to voice it or where to go. They’re going through grief, and it’s kind of a taboo subject, so having a fun and inviting group and camp they can go to. … that’s why we’ve kept it all these years. This program, aswithall our bereavement programs, is free to the community. As the only non-profit hospice in our 12-county service area, we depend greatly upon the generosity of the community to help us fill this void. We are extremely blessed.”

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“The kids have made lifelong relationships, and some signup for other programs. It’s an incredible opportunity to give these kids in the community. We’ve had people come from out of town or Oklahoma, so [people all over] see our programand say, ‘We need that.’” Before Fielding landed her current role with Hospice of Wichita Falls, she volunteered for Camp Grin Again and Building Bridges. “I was in the classroom seeing the kids and teaching the curriculum,” she said. “Before I even volunteered, wehadpeoplewhowent through the program who loved it so much and wanted to become one of the volunteers, so that was neat to see themget somuch out of it that they wanted to come back and help others who are facing the same challenges.” “Seeing them be able to make friends was the neatest thing. A lot of themcome inanddon’twant to talk, and they feel aloneandthey’renot surewhat thegroup isgoing to look like. I was in the teen group, and not a lot of the teens were talking. By the end, they were all friends and exchanging numbers. That’s what it’s all about. We want them to know there is hope, and there are people who can empathize.” For more information about any Hospice of Wichita Falls programs, which are available to all ages, visit their website at www.howf.org, or contactMichaela Fielding at 940-687-8672. †

Camp Grin Again is the only program of its kind in wichita falls and the surrounding area, fielding said. “There’s such a need for this almost invisible mental health issue.”

Texoma Gives highlighted Hospice of Wichita Falls’ Children’s Program in 2021.

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WHERE DO YOU LIVE? We l ive in Southwest rural Wichi ta County. Our family owns and operates a 60 head sow operation where we raise and sell show pigs. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A PART OF THE PROGRAMS AND OPPORTUNITIES PROVIDED BY WICHITA COUNTY 4-H? We have been part of 4-H for four years. We started in the Valley View 4-H Club, and most recently in the new Burkburnett 4-H Club. 4-H Spotlight

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE AND LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT SHOWING?

MAX & GRAHAM FISCHER photos provided by the fischer family

Max: My favorite thing is probably watching the livestock grow and change throughout the time on feed. I am really fascinated with growth and development and howminor feedchanges can really change the look of one. There really isn’t anything that I dislike about showing livestock except I really do not like to get beat. But when we do, that just makes me want to work harder to get them next time. Graham: My favorite part of showing is working with my animals at home. I love to see how they grow up and change, especially the ones we raise as babies. I also really like to hang out with my friends in the barn and at shows. My least favoritepart iswakingupbefore six in themorning to drive to a show. Wehavecompetedat theWichitaCounty Show, the State Fair of Texas, al l of the Texas major shows including Ft Worth, San Antonio, Houston, Austin. Max has shown in Denver at the National Western and will do so again this January and in Reno, Nevada. Both of us have shown at the World Pork Expo in Des Moines, IA. Max: I have been fortunate enough to show some really great sheep in the last ten years. Some of mymost notable accomplishments are GrandChampionCommercial Ewe–SanAntonio Stock Show and Rodeo, Reserve Champion York – Houston Stock Show, Reserve Champion Market Lamb – San Angelo Stock Show, Division Champion Medium Wool- San Antonio Stock Show, Third Overall York- World Pork Expo. I’ve also had about a dozen class winners at all of WHERE HAVE YOU COMPETED AND WHAT AWARDS HAVE YOU WON?

STUDENT: MAX FISCHER, 18, BURKBURNETT HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT: GRAHAM FISCHER, 12, BURKBURNETT MIDDLE SCHOOL PARENTS: MIKE & AMY FISCHER

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WHAT OTHER 4-H PROJECTS HAVE YOU PARTICIPATED IN?

the major shows. Graham: Reserve Champion Hei fer – Wichi ta County, Grand Champion Market Lamb three years –WichitaCounty, ReserveChampionMarket Hog – Wichita County, Champion Southdown Ewe – San Angelo, Class winning Southdown at Texas State Fair.

Max:MyDadand I starteda small flockof ewesmore than ten years ago. I nowown 45 headof ewes. We show some and sell most of the others that aren’t goodenough to show. Inaddition, I have judgedon the Wichita Co Livestock Judging Team for the last 4 years. I haveadvanced to the State 4-H Roundup contest all four years, once as an individual and three times with our WichitaCounty team. This year I was secondhigh individual at theDistrict 3Contest. Last year I was high individual at the District 3 4-H Contest and at Clarendon College, and finished in the top ten at several other contests. This year I am also the Burkburnett 4-H Club Secretary. Graham: My favorite project is Beef Cattle. I love raising cattle and have started to build my own cow herd over the last two years from the money I have received from the Wichita County Livestock ShowPremiumSale. I currently have3cowcalf pairs and two heifers. I was first place at the county level with my Beef Cattle record book and third at the District level. Last year I was awarded the Bronze Star for my Beef project. It is the highest award given to junior 4-H members at the County Level. I also judge livestock. Livestock judging contests I have participated in include the North Texas Livestock Contest, Denton – high individual, District 3 4-H Livestock Judging Contest where I was top 20 and was on the Reserve Champion Team. This year I also competed at State Fair of Texas in Dallas and the Heart of Texas in Waco. I am currently the Burkburnett 4-H Club Reporter. There are so many reasons to join 4-H. We are truly passionate about the livestock industry and 4-H gives us theopportunity toactually bepart of it. 4-H provides many opportunities other than livestock though. Thereare lots of scholarshipopportunities, we do community service projects through our club, and have had the opportunity to learn about other things frompeople in the community that we might not otherwisebeengiven thechance to learn about. If there is something you are interested in, 4-H has a project for it. WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES/INTERESTS? Our hobbies and interests are livestock. Everything we do revolves around family and livestock. It is a lifestyle that we are very fortunate to have. WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THINKING ABOUTJOINING4-HTOPERSUADETHEMTOJOIN?

HOW HAS BEING A PART OF 4-H PROGRAMS PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE/GOALS?

4-H gives you opportunities to step outside of your comfort zone and teaches you to think on your feet. It has helped us to meet people and make connections. We have learned public speaking skills and how to work. We have also learned how important it is to help others and to give back to the community, even if it is in small ways.

WHY IS BEING AN HTYA IMPORTANT TO YOU?

The agriculture industry is really vital to everyone’s existence. Food, clothes, almost everything really comes froma farmor ranch in one way or another. Highlighting youth in agriculture is a great way to shine a light on just one small, but impactful aspect of theagriculture industry.Wehavemetmanygreat 4-H families in Wichita County that choose to live, compete, and participate the way we do, but as a whole we are a small number of people. The more we can advocate for agriculture and youth in agriculture, the better.

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WHO IS YOUR MENTOR?

Max: I have met a lot of people through showing and 4-H, but the most influential to me would be my Dad, Chance Neff, and Joe Raff. These guys have taught me everything; how to select good livestock, how to get one ready for a show, how to appreciate good genetics, and how to out work the competition. Graham:Wehavehad lotsof help fromothersalong theway, but my parents aremy biggest supporters and help with all of our projects. My Dad did not even hesitate when I told him I wanted to show cattle and invest in cows and my mom helps as a 4-H volunteer. WHERE DO YOU WANT TO GO TO COLLEGE AND WHAT WILL YOU STUDY? WHAT DO YOU WANT TO DO WHEN YOU GROW UP? Max: I will attend Redlands Community College in El Reno, OK in the fall and compete on their Livestock Judging Team. I then plan to judge at the senior college level, possibly Texas Tech, Texas A&M, OSU or K-State. I plan to pursue a BS in Animal Science and eventually a career in small ruminant breeding and reproduction. Someday I will have my own place to move my sheep herd to and maybe even raise a few goats. Graham: I want toattend Tarelton StateUniversity, but amnot sure what I will do. It will most definitely include raising cattle somewhere.

OTHER GROUPS/ORGANIZATIONS YOU’RE INVOLVED IN?

Max: Iamamemberof theBurkburnettHighSchool National Honor Society and the Burkburnett FFA. I amon the FFA Livestock Judging Teamandalso participated as a Senior Creed Speaker. Graham: I am on the Superintendent’s Advisory Committee at my school.

COMMENTS/WORDS OF WISDOM OR ADVICE:

Max: Never be satisfied and never ever let them out work you. Graham: 4-H is a great way to meet people and learn new things.

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hometown | happenings

he Arts Council WF is pleased to present the SAQA (Studio Art Quilt Associates, Inc.) TexasQuiltersExhibit “ASenseof Place: Texas Landscape Art Quilts” at the Kemp Center for the Arts. From above or below, fromfar or near, abstracted or hyper-photographic, Texas geography, geology and landforms inspire artists with the diversity, grandeur, mystery and complexity that unrolls fromthe Gulf to the Staked Plains, to the Borderlands and the Hill Country. Artists were invited to explore their emotional connections with landscape themes, and to push the boundaries of what constitutes landscape art. Studio Art Quilt Associates, Inc. (SAQA) is a nonprof it organization whose mission is to promote the art qui lt : “a creative visual work that is layered and stitched or that references this form of stitched layered structure.” A SENSE OF PLACE: Texas Landscape Art Quilts photos provided by arts council wichita falls

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WICHITA FALLS LIVING WOMEN YOU SHOULD KNOW 2022

“But by the grace of God I amwhat I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me.” - 1 Corinthians 15:10

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MY BEGINNING As for my career, I did not grow up wanting to be an audiologist. I only knew I wanted to be in the medical field, as both of my biggest role models are a doctor and a nurse. I decided to venture into the field of audiology during college when my cousin, Adriana, mentioned I should look into becoming a speech language pathologist. I VERY last minute applied to a rigorous Speech Language and Hearing program hosted at the Health Sciences Center department of Texas Tech University. Much to my surprise, I was accepted and during that two year program I discovered audiology and fell in love with the idea of treating patients with hearing loss. LEGACY In everything I do, I want to help others. I want to help people smile and enjoy life. That is how I was raised and I try to instill this in my personal and professional life every day. MY PEOPLE My patients are very wise and often offer their stories and knowledge in life. It is one of my many pleasures in getting to work with the population that I do. With most of my patients being 65+, they have lived and learned and a wonderful bonus of my career is hearing their advice in life. HERITAGE While the field of audiology is 68% female, only 8% are Hispanic and I am very proud to carry my ethnicity into this rewarding field. LIFE MOTTO I have several life mottos but a couple of them are: Life is short, live each day as if it were your last. Treat everyone with dignity and respect. Among many others, these words were spoken to me daily growing up. I truly do try to live every day to the fullest. I try to love my loved ones as hard as I can every single day and treat everyone I encounter with the most respect. As a daughter of an ER physician, I was raised in a very realistic household. Life is short, people die daily. Life is not fair so we better enjoy I would like to serve the population of Wichita Falls and surrounding communities for as long as I can. I intend to build not only a business, but one day a family here and serve my patients for many, many, many years to come. ALIGN AUDIOLOGY, PLLC 4610 Kell West Blvd Wichita Falls 940.263.1248 alignaudiology.com Tessa Menchaca every single day. MY FUTURE

4020 Rhea Road 6B Wichita Falls 940.285.5365 Find us on Facebook THE BEAUTY LOUNGE Lashawna Marquardt Jennifer Deleon Anira Davis Yubia Gutierrez Alicia Couch Vianey Davalos Viera Mondragon

OUR BEGINNING We first opened our doors January 24th 2017 MOTTO Enhance your Beauty MISSION To provide quality and personalized services, our highly skilled team continues to learn, to build long lasting relationships with our clients and to enhance their beauty. VISION To be a salon where everyone feels welcomed. To inspire every client walking through our door and to make everyone feel beautiful inside and out.

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K BOND JEWELERS Custom Jewelry Design and GIA Certified Diamonds 3910 Wayne Avenue Suite 104 Wichita Falls 940-691-0281 kbondjewelers.com Sarah Beth Bond

HISTORY Sarah grew up in Holliday and attended MSU where she received her BBA in business management in 2016. Sarah started working alongside her father, Kenny Bond and brother, Braeden when she was a freshman in high school and discovered her passion for jewelry design before starting college. She feels extremely blessed to have grown up in a family business where she has been afforded the opportunity to learn and grow, expanding on the business her father created 40 years ago. APPROACH TO CUSTOMER SERVICE Sarah believes that every piece of jewelry should be as unique as the person who is wearing it and strives to ensure that each piece she has a part in creating is different than the last that left the store. She enjoys working with customers and helping to bring their visions to life. Sarah and her family work extremely hard to provide the best quality in craftsmanship in their custom designs as well as repairs. Whether a customer is coming in to purchase a diamond engagement ring or to have a watch battery replaced, the Bonds want them to feel like family. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Sarah is an active member of the Junior League of Wichita Falls, currently serving on the Board of Directors as well as the Christmas Magic Steering Committee.

HERITAGE/LEGACY My family is my reason why. They inspire me to reach for success daily. My husband, Geoff Drysdale and I have three beautiful daughters, McKenzie, Peyton, and Grayson. And our cute Shih Tzu is named Lexi. OUR BEGINNING I have over 20 years experience in the home buying industry. I began as a licensed real estate agent with Coldwell Banker in 2001 and moved into the mortgage industry in 2006. I have worked with various local lenders since that time. I purchased my Allstate agency in February 2019 in the community that I have lived in and built relationships in for over 40 years. OUR PEOPLE Our team genuinely enjoys what we do and helping people every day. The entire Lammers Allstate Agency team has ties to the area and together, we have over 75 years of customer service experience. We intend to set the standard of excellence among insurance providers by being innovative, having strong relationships, and exceeding customer expectations. We want to be the agency of choice for home, auto & life insurance as well as other financial products while providing our customers with superior coverage and a human touch to the challenges of risk management. OUR FUTURE I love to help the families understand why they need to be protected. My mission is to be their agent for life moving though all the stages having them know I have their best interest at heart. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Our team enjoys giving back to the community by delivering meals for The Kitchen and Meals on Wheels, participating in the Junior League Food Fight and sponsoring Habitat for Humanity by decorating studs as well as sponsoring a variety of sports teams throughout the community. I am also involved in the women’s group Impact 100 Wichita Falls. This group empowers women to use philanthropy to improve the lives of those around them and I am excited to watch this group continue to grow and be able to give back. ALLSTATE AGENCY 4210 Kell Blvd, Suite 106 Wichita Falls 940.692.4000 allstate.com/rlammers Rebecca Lammers

Nicki Bomer

MOTTO “Keep showing up.”

JACKSBORO NATIONAL BANK WF MORTGAGE DIVISION 4245 Kemp Blvd, Suite 200 Wichita Falls 940.249.5290 mybanktexas.com/mortgage-loans

HERITAGE/LEGACY The Jacksboro National Bank was chartered on June 30, 1905, and opened for business July 24, 1905, with initial deposits of $9,761. We have maintained the philosophy of local independent ownership along with personal dedicated customer service throughout our 100+ years of existence. The Mortgage Division in Wichita Falls opened its doors in late 2013. We are totally dedicated to meeting the needs of our customers. Strength and stability have always been key components of Jacksboro National Bank. OUR DIFFERENCE Being a local mortgage division means our team manages your loan from start to finish with a decision made by our in-house underwriter. Our goal is to make the loan process simple, transparent and worry-fee. We know every client is unique and our knowledgeable staff can help identify the right type of loan for you. FREE ADVICE Get prequalified before you start looking for a home. The market can move fast and being qualified can help make your offer more competitive. CONNECTIONS Junior League, Partners in Education, Wichita Falls Area Food Bank, Wichita Falls Association of Realtors, North Texas Home Builder’s Association, Empty Bowls, Wichita Falls Youth Symphony Orchestra, The Royal Theater, Hospice of Wichita Falls, Special Olympics, Beacon Lighthouse for the Blind, andMeals on Wheels. TatumMcDaniel MOTTO “You must go on adventures to find out where you truly belong.”

CLINK! Brenna Pohlad

WHO WE ARE Clink! specializes in alcoholic desserts; we also have non-alcoholic options. OUR DIFFERENCE We hope to continue to build great memories with our dessert creations. We offer catering services for weddings and events and would love to be part of your special occasion. MOTTO Have your wine and eat it too.

3115 Kemp Wichita Falls 940.923.3657 @drinkandClink! fi

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OUR BEGINNING Tangles began in Iowa Park, TX in July of 1988 with a team of 5 stylists. Twelve years later in Wichita Falls, TX in July of 2000, Tangles opened in Parker Square with 12 stylists. Currently, we have a team 18 stylists. Continuous growth has always been a vital part of Tangles Salon. OUR DIFFERENCE At Tangles, our team of stylists are dedicated to their quality of work and education in our craft. OUR PEOPLE Tangles can proudly boast having 7 Master Styl i sts and Color i sts , which i s a huge achievement in our industry. Our stylists are highly trained and committed to providing the best possible experience to our clients. OUR FUTURE The future of Tangles is devoted to providing an unmatched quality of service in the art of hair design now and for years to come. TANGLES SALON OWNER & MASTER STYLIST 2913 Garnett Avenue Wichita Falls 940.767.4600 tangles.com Robin Cook

4102 Jacksboro Highway, Suite 200 Wichita Falls 940.285.5245 Anchored-Realty.com ANCHORED REALTY LeeAnn Burnett

OUR BEGINNINGS Although not open until 2019, Anchored Realty was born in 2016 with 3 Realtors who felt lead by God to open a real estate office that honored the scripture found in Mark 10:44-45. OUR DIFFERENCE Our mission statement shows our difference: The company’s purpose is to assist the public in real estate transactions by providing high quality customer service, always putting the client’s needs and interests before our own and ensuring equal access to resources to all clients. We begin each day with a prayer asking God to put people into our path that we may help and serve. The company practices sustainable development through technology and innovative creativity. At the end of our day if we have served God, our community, and our clients we have achieved a business with integrity and purpose. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT We have partnered with Hospice of Wichita Falls Pediatric/Perinatal. We provide cash donations, a memory bear or pillow to the parents & each sibling, and are planning the first annual community fund raiser for the programs in 2022.

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Shannan King

LEGACY BJD Engraving of TX was opened in 1973 by Kenneth Schnick. His daughter, Karen and her husband, Richard King, Jr. purchased it in the mid 1980s. In 2013 we became BJD Engraving, LLC and I became an official owner with my father-in-law. OUR BEGINNING The business opened as a hobby for Ken to make name tags for his friends in the square-dancing community. With all of Ken’s contacts as a retired Air Force member we quickly grew to be a full Awards & Recognition company. OUR DIFFERENCE Customer service sets us apart! Our goal is to make sure every customer has the best design, quality, and product for every occasion and budget! From the smallest label or memorial inscription to the massive Ceremonial Groundbreaking, customer’s satisfaction is top priority. Our goal is that you leave with a smile knowing your project will be created with love. FREE ADVICE Give Glory to God for EVERYTHING! Thank & praise Him in the good times and bad. I give God all the credit for keeping our business successful and always providing for our family over the last 50+ years

BJD ENGRAVING, LLC 2515 10th Street Wichita Falls 940.322.1014 bjdengraving.com bjdengravingllc@gmail.com

AXIS CONSTRUCTION Shelly Wood

SPECIALTY Shelly Wood is Design Lead at Axis Construction. She leads our clients through the design process by understanding their lifestyle, their challenges, and their needs. From there she gathers all the necessary data and measurements and builds a digital replica of their home to ensure new designs can be executed efficiently. She works her magic by creating a plan that incorporates problem-solving layouts and client-centered style for a final plan that uniquely suites each customer. HISTORY Shelly is a licensed civil engineer by training. With 20 years in civil engineering, she has the experience working with clients and contractors to develop professional plan sets. She also has experience as an interior decorator and custom finish expert. This makes her a unicorn – a process-driven perfectionist with an eye for style. She is the perfect person to lead our design department. OUTSIDE THE OFFICE Shelly enjoys getting outdoors with her family (along with their dogs & horses too!). She is married and together they have a young son and daughter. Shelly is always up for a laugh.

5615 Kemp Blvd Wichita Falls 940.264.2947

reinventingtheremodel.com info@axisconstructionwf.com

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Alia Rorabaw AshtonMcCord Alivia Rorabaw Elisa Mooney Brittany Barnes Ashley Hunsaker TracyWilliamson Gail Erickson

OUR DIFFERENCE We pride ourselves on bringing the highest quality products and services to Wichita Falls and surrounding areas! The main goal for Beauty Bar is to be kind and welcoming to everyone that comes through our door because you may never know what battle they are fighting and you might just be the light of their day by being kind! OUR FUTURE This has been an amazing year and we cannot wait to see what the future holds! We have so many things to offer in the future in order to tailor each individual’s experience to exactly what they need and want. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT This year will be a big one for Beauty Bar Wichita Falls! We plan a large amount of giving back to our community. We’re joining forces with the Salvation Army for their annual Toy Drive and joining with other small, local businesses to give back to the children in our community. We want to encourage other salons to lift the spirits of the children who have battled a ‘not-so-normal’ school year by giving back. MOTTO “In a gentle way, you can shake the world.” - Mahatma Gandhi This sign is posted in our breakroom as a reminder to our staff that they can change the world, one client at a time, with all the little things you do.

BEAUTY BAR WICHITA FALLS 2909 Bob Avenue Wichita Falls 940.232.2002 Facebook.com/beautybarwf

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MaryAnn Robinson

LEGACY Mary Ann Robinson has lived in Lawton all her life and dreamed about one day opening a store like 1010 Mercantile. With her dream a reality, she is putting her design and decorating talents to use, as well as expanding into the exciting market of vintage furniture and clothing. 1010 Mercantile brings together, in one store, numerous vendors from Lawton, giving the store a very strong southwest Oklahoma feeling. DESIGN Mary Ann credits her desire to help people, with their decorating and fashion needs, to the skills she has been taught for years by her mother. She also credits working for Brady Decorating Center. SHOPPING This store features new and resale-quality furniture, repurposed furniture, clothes, jewelry, home decor, food items from Oklahoma, and many more “Made in Oklahoma” products. “I look forward to helping people fulfill their fashion and furnishing needs at a reasonable price.”

1010 MERCANTILE 1802 West Gore Boulevard Lawton OK 580.695.5983 1010mercantile.business.site

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photos provided by wfsl WICHITA FALLS Sym hony League

hometown | happenings

At the Bezerra-Gastesi piano duo event

Youth Symphony Orchestra members rehearsing

The piano duo Estibaiz Gastesi and Marcio Bezerra

Applause members performing

Applause group

May Symphony League luncheon

Youth Symphony Orchestra members rehearsing

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Provided by PATRICK JOHNSON

T HEBESTJOURNEYS INLIFESEEMTOBETHOSETHATCOMEFULLCIRCLE. While there are often grand adventures along the way, there is a sense of wholeness when the road leads you back home. While training to become a sportsmedicine physician, Dr. Sarah Langston spent nearly 10 years in the Metroplex with her husband, Tait, and eventually came their baby, Jon Lee. “We had been in Fort Worth and Dallas for so long that it felt like a grind,” she said. “We wanted to slow down from the fast pace of DFW and come to a townwhere we felt welcomed and could set down roots down for our family.”

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Dr. Sarah Langston

PHOTO COURTESY OF ELLE BOONE PHOTOGRAPHY

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During her high school career, Dr. Sarah Langston-then Sarah Henry-excelled on and off the court at Wichita Falls High School before graduating in 2008.

AsanativeofWichitaFalls, shesawherhometownas the ideal place toraisea family. Inturn, shewouldbeback in the same city as her parents, Bob and Jo Anna Henry, and several hours closer to Tait’s family in Lubbock. As she completed her residency, Langston knew exactly where shehoped tostart her practice; thedecision to join theUnitedRegional PhysicianGroup (URPG) Orthopedic

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Dr. SarahLangston(right)attempts to block an attack while playing collegiate volleyball for East Central University.

team was an easy one. “I always knew I wanted to come back to join this phenomenal team,” she said. Upon joining URPG, Dr. Langston feels her life has come full circle, as she’s now working with physicians such as Dr. Michael Sheen and Dr. Joshua Schacter, who were on the sidelines when she was an athlete. She said, “They have been a part of my life for such a long time -

fromcaring forme as an athlete to being there forme as a medical school student. They’re likemy family.” During her high school career, Dr. Sarah Langston- thenSarahHenry-excelledonandoff the court atWichita Falls High School before graduating in 2008. She was a memberof theNationalHonorSociety, awho’swhoamong American High School Students, and the captain of the

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Above: Dr. Sarah Langston (4) keeps a ball in play while playing collegiate volleyball for East Central University.

varsity volleyball team her senior year, as well as a frequent volunteer in the community. As an athlete, she set a then-school record for most career kills by an individualwith652 kills over three seasons for the LadyCoyotes. As anoverall student, shewashonored as the Young Tex-Anne nominee by the Sunrise Optimist Club in 2007. Her first endeavor away from home took her to Ada, OK where she continuedher volleyball career at East Central University. Twoyears later, she returned toWichitaFalls andgraduatedmagnacumlaudewith a Bachelor of Science inBiology, minor inChemistry, fromMidwestern State University in 2012. As she entered medical school at the University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth, Dr. Langston joined the Future in the Falls program, a physician recruitment program through United Regional that is designed to encourage those from our area to return home to practice medicine upon completion of their training. She completed a

In August 2021, Dr. Langston returned to the community she grew up in and to the same courts she once played on – this time as a physician entrusted with providing excellent care to injured athletes.

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ABOVE PHOTO COURTESY OF ELLE BOONE PHOTOGRAPHY

Above: Dr. Sarah Langston and her husband, Tait, and son, Jon Lee.

residency at Methodist Charlton Medical Center in Dallas, then a sports medicine fellowship at Baylor University inWaco. In August 2021, she returned to the community she grewup in and to the same courts she once played on – this time as a physician entrusted with providing excellent care to injured athletes. With her training as anosteopathicphysician,Dr. Langstontakesawholistic approachto treatingpatientsof all ages – frompediatric patients with a bone fracture to older patients with arthritis, andmany conditions in between. Dr. Langston looks forward to serving her own community formany years and sharing the places and events fromheradolescencewithherhusbandandson. “It’sbeen funand feels likeawholedifferent experience coming back toWichita Falls withmy family.” †

Learnmore about Dr. Langston at urphysiciangroup.org/providers/sarah-langston-do

Dr. Sarah Langston

PHOTO COURTESY OF UNITED REGIONAL

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Mike

Oswald , Wichita Falls area resident

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1. Aria | Parents: Raymond&KristaRedus | Carla BlanchardPhotography

2. Atticus | Parents: Jacob&Eulalia Bonillas | Carla BlanchardPhotography

3. Sawyer | Parent: AdrianVetter | Carla BlanchardPhotography

4. Presley | Parent: ShelbyMorgan | Chelsee Thomas Photography

5. Eli | Parents: Alex&BlaireMiller | Paula Lovelace Photography

6. James | Parents: Cody&Kristen Strickland | Carla BlanchardPhotography

7. Ataly | Parent: CindyAmador | Chelsee Thomas Photography

8. Novali | Parents: Brian&MelissaMcCray | Carla BlanchardPhotography

9. Palmer | Parents: Taylor &Colbee Clement | Carla BlanchardPhotography

10. Gustave | Parent: Lyndsy Slagle | Chelsee Thomas Photography

11. Liam | Parent: Diana Paschall | Chelsee Thomas Photography

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12. Henry | Parents: Travis&MadisonPenney | Jenna LaRue Photography

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1. Prydwen | Parents: Ryan& Jessica Schweikardt | Carla Blanchard Photography 2. Andrue | Parent: Rebecca Parrish | Chelsee Thomas Photography 3. Corrie | Parent: Mackenzie Haverland | Chelsee thomas Photography 4. Priscilla | Parents: Will &AmandaMinton | Carla Blanchard Photography 5. Elijah | Parent: Amber McCain | Chelsee Thomas Photography 6. Kora | Parent: Jennica Lambert | Chelsee Thomas Photography 7. Kasen | Parents: Kirk & LaRissaMorton | Jenna LaRue Photography 8. Mickey | Parents: Brayden&Brittany Little | Jenna LaRue Photography 9. Laken | Parent: ShelbieWilliams | Jenna LaRue Photography 10. Eva | Parents: Leo &Yubia Guiterrez | Carla Blanchard Photography 11. Charlotte | Parent: MirandaWood | Chelsee Thomas Photography 12. Gracelynn | Parent: Crystal Lively | Chelsee Thomas Photography 13. Jackson | Parent: Samantha Beard | Chelsee Thomas Photography 14. Libby | Parents: Mitchaletty & Jessica Jordan | Carla Blanchard Photography 15. Kenshi | Parent: ElinaWilson | Chelsee Thomas Photography

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hometown | happenings

he Arts Counci l is thri l led to announce the completion of a collaborative art workshop and instal lation project between Art Reaching Out – ARO and the Carlyn Ray Design Studio. This was a free scholarship opportunity through the Arts Council WF Education Programming and provided regional high school junior and senior students to participate. Students that signed up were from WFISD, Iowa Park High School and Newcastle High School. On September 21st and September 23rd , the Ar ts Council WF provided a bus trip for 40 different students to experience and participate in a 3-hour workshop in the studio with artists and glass experts, learning about the science and the art of glass blowing and fusing. While there, the students created fused glass birds and additional glass sheets that were later cut into shapes and used in the permanent larger art installation at the WF Regional Airport. The installation of the hanging fused glass birds was completed Wednesday, October 20th. This installation will be on permanent display in the main area of the airport. All visitors can enter the airport and view the work free of charge and during the airports open hours. Ar t Reaching Out (ARO) i s a Dal las -based mul t i - disciplinary program that seeks to involve students in the creation of art pieces for public display using a STEAM (STEM + Art = STEAM) based approach. HOT SHOP TEEN GLASS PROGRAM photos provided by the arts council

This program was made possible through funding by the James N. McCoy Foundation.

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Written by SABRINA FORSE Photos provided by DIANN BAYES AND UT PERMIAN BASIN

How Big is

A Lifelong Quest to Explore the Lone Star State

H OWBIG IS TEXAS? It’s an answer that Diann Bayes has been chasing most of her life. “Out of the 1,221 towns I found on a list of incorporated Texas towns, I’vebeentoalmost 600. Thereareseveral unincorporated towns in Texas and my best guess is I’ve been to an additional 100 of those. Of the 254 Texas counties in the state, I only have 20more to visit.” The urge to explore was inspired by the small screen. “My favorite shows growing up were Fantasy Island and Love Boat, so I guess it was a subliminalwayof inspiringwhat I finally ended up doing for a living. I was also inspired by Bob Phillips with Texas Country Reporter. Seeing him travel around the state had a great impact onmy future career choices.”

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