Happy Birthday FallstownFUSE!
One year in the books for Wichita Falls' arts & entertainment newsletter
Hi! I’m Troy, the editor and publisher of the FallstownFUSE. Can you believe theFUSE has been around for a year already? It’s been a whirlwind for sure, but so rewarding!
TheFUSE’ origin story starts with an older guy, me, going through a divorce and starting over as a new resident of Wichita Falls. I only knew 3 people when I arrived.
Then, when the TV in my new apartment didn’t work, and I realized I’d forgotten my speakers in my previous life, I thought I was gonna go stir crazy. I was stuck in a quiet apartment, in a city where I barely knew anybody.
In desperation, I grabbed my cameras. As a photography enthusiast, I had spent about 15 years shooting landscapes and architecture. Photographing downtown Wichita Falls came naturally, and kept me occupied.
I hiked all over downtown and photographed everything that interested me until, one night… I heard music.
I was like, where is that music coming from?
I followed the sound and wound up in Bud Daniel Park, where the 2023 summer concert series was about to kick off. The James Cook Band was doing their soundcheck, and I photographed their show that night.
That was one year ago, today.
The next morning, I reached out to several media outlets and offered my photos to them. The response was the old “we’ll keep your information on file.” It became clear nobody was interested, and the idea for theFUSE started brewing.
As a former radio announcer of almost 30 years, it didn’t take long for me to feel like this is what I’m meant to be doing.
I’m supposed to be here, doing this.
Spreading the word about songs by genius songwriters right here in our area. Clint Vines, Garry Walden, James Cook, Hazel, Zack Crow, Michael Kately, Bailey and Ben Hatton, Cade Roth, Sean Snyder, Greg Casillas and the list goes on.
Together, I think we’re meant to lift up our artists with positivity and encouragement, and plentiful shares and comments. I thank you for joining me in that.
One year ago, I felt lost and didn’t know where I was going, so I thank you for making this old dude feel a sense of purpose again. If you want to help theFUSE support the local scene, keep this thing going by dropping your email here for a free or paid subscription.
Thanks, Wichita Falls. And Happy Birthday to the FallstownFUSE. Here’s to many more.
— Troy