Good morning, Wichita Falls.

On Wednesday (March 19), the Wichita Falls Chamber of Commerce honored longtime community leader Carole Wagner (former City Council member) and architect Richard Bundy as Wichitans of the Year.

Wagner led community projects for 67 years while Bundy supported local groups such as the Boys and Girls Clubs and the Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation.

Janea Aragon, a New Mexico resident, has been taken into custody for the 2022 murder of a Wichita Falls man who suffered more than six stab wounds—investigators found a burned-out cigarette with her DNA and a disconnected gas valve at the scene that may indicate an attempted cover-up.

Wichita Falls loses $300 million each year as residents shop in other cities, and the Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Retail Strategies to boost local retail businesses.

At a forum held Wednesday, leaders including CEO Ron Kitchens and Retail Strategies president Lacy Beasley urged residents to shop locally—hoping to create more jobs and attract new residents.

Midwestern State University is celebrating its school pride with a week of fun activities—students wearing maroon and gold receive free MSU swag daily beginning Monday, March 24.

The celebration continues with the Maroon Friday Block Party at Mustangs Walk from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m.—Maverick will appear at the event.

The 82nd Security Forces Squadron at Sheppard Air Force Base opened a new $1.3 million facility for training military working dogs — the space features secure areas with artificial grass for obstacle courses, patrol work and detection training.

Handlers said the dedicated site replaces old makeshift training spots and helps improve daily readiness on base.

The Wichita County Jail passed state inspection on Feb 26 at the Wichita County Law Enforcement Center—inspectors found no deficiencies.

The improvements follow years of work that began after the old jail failed previous inspections.

Wichita County Commissioners voted Tuesday to extend the burn ban in unincorporated areas through April 30 to help prevent wildfires.

County Judge Jim Johnson said the measure is needed (dry conditions and recent wildfires have raised the fire risk) after high temperatures and low humidity affected the area.

At the Texas High School Women’s Powerlifting Association State meet, Legacy powerlifter Nmesomachukwu Nzeh-Biko became Wichita Falls Legacy High’s first state champion and tied the state deadlift record at 425 pounds.

Teammate Leah Sanchez set a state bench press record and placed third—Coach Billy Davison now has 25 state powerlifters in his 14-year career.

Stand Up for a Cause

6-10 p.m. — The Forum (Arts Council WF) — Support local kids in foster care — Enjoy a night of laughs, food, drink, and art.

Wichita Falls Largest Garage Sale

7 a.m.-2 p.m. — Parker Square Shopping Center — $5 admission — Discover unique antiques and collectibles at this massive garage sale event.

Tarzan Auditions

2-11:59 p.m. — Wichita Theater Performing Art Centre — Free entry — Showcase your talent in the exciting auditions for Tarzan, open to performers aged 14 and up.