05/01/2026
It's with Miss and Mr. Red Fern Festival 2026:
Gracelyn Walls and Paul Walls
A note from the Family;
We are incredibly proud to share that our daughter has been crowned Miss Red Fern and awarded a $1,000 scholarship, while our son earned the title of Mr. Red Fern along with his own $1,000 scholarship. This moment is truly special for our family and represents so much more than titles.
Our son’s journey has been one of remarkable strength and perseverance. As a childhood cancer survivor who was born prematurely and with a cleft lip, he has faced challenges that many will never fully understand. Watching him stand confidently today, full of determination and a true zest for life, is nothing short of inspiring. He reminds us daily what resilience looks like.
Our daughter’s journey is equally meaningful. She has endured the difficult reality of bullying, which has at times impacted her self-esteem. This pageant gave her a space to grow, feel supported, and rediscover her confidence. Seeing her shine on stage and embrace her worth has been an unforgettable experience.
We are deeply grateful to Kristy Eubanks, the pageant director, whose dedication, passion, and countless hours of hard work make opportunities like this possible for so many young people. Her commitment truly shows in every detail of this event. We also sincerely thank Cox Communications for their generous scholarship contribution, which will provide meaningful support to Paul and Gracelyn in their pursuit of higher education and future aspirations.
This experience has meant more to our family than we can fully express. It has been a celebration of perseverance, growth, and the power of believing in yourself.
Kendra Walls
Cox
Photographs by Cass, LLC.
Tahlequah Main Street Association