Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 6th of January.
Good morning, Wichita Falls.
💼 Business
Investar Holding Corp finished acquiring Wichita Falls Bancshares, the holding company for First National Bank, on Friday.
The deal converted bank shares into $7.2 million cash and 3,955,334 shares for a total value of about $112.9 million.
The Wichita Falls Chamber, celebrating 125 years, will welcome Cindy Shafer as its permanent CEO on Jan.
26. She replaces interim leader Maria Jaimes-Contreras, appointed in Oct. 2025.
A new Dollar Tree will open soon in the former EntertainMART space at Hobby Lobby Plaza (2811 Southwest Parkway) as the chain marks its fifth location in Wichita Falls, with officials noting the announcement was made on Jan.
5.
Withershins Menagerie left Sikes Senter Mall after its lease ended following the city’s purchase, and it will open in a new location near Wichita County Annex on Central East Freeway later this week.
🎓 Education
The inaugural districtwide talent show hosted by the Wichita Falls ISD Foundation will take place on Tuesday, Jan.
13 at 7 p.m. in the Memorial High School auditorium. Students from Memorial and Legacy high schools will perform to win a college scholarship and the District Talent Show Winner title.
🌲 Environment
Wild Bird Rescue in Wichita Falls cares for injured and stranded birds during winter by providing rehabilitation, shelter, and ongoing monitoring.
The nonprofit relies on local resources and volunteers to keep the birds healthy during the cold months.
🏛️ Government
Texas DPS is designating January as Human Trafficking Awareness Month & advising Texans to watch for signs like unexplained fatigue or unusual work conditions, urging anyone who notices these indicators to contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
Atmos Energy will conduct routine safety surveys of the natural gas system in Wichita Falls today at 7:00 p.m., using leak detection technology to ensure safety; the surveys will conclude on Saturday, Jan.
10.
The Texas Workforce Commission will host the 2026 Texas Conference for Employers series starting January 9 in Victoria then monthly across Texas until September, offering businesses guidance on employment law, education credits and networking, with registration costing 200 dollars.
The Wichita County Sheriff’s Office is accepting applications for its annual Citizens’ Academy, a free course for residents 18 and older — the class begins Thursday, Feb.
5 at 6 p.m. and will meet weekly until about 9 p.m.
🏥 Health
Hospice of Wichita Falls announced Ann Gunn as its 2026 Board of Directors Chair—she has served on the board for three years—and former chair Shana Vordenbaum will continue her service.
🎉 Wichita Falls Events
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70th Annual Pancake Festival
6 AM – 12 PM — MPEC — All proceeds support community activities — Enjoy delicious pancakes while giving back to the local community.
🏠 Wichita Falls Real Estate
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