amarillosummer2025

1 hometown living at its best

2 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group

3 hometown living at its best

4 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group 8 SMILES AROUND TOWN Our own Terri Huseman shares her favorite things about Amarillo. 12 HOMETOWN GRADUATES Join us in celebrating the class of 2025! 16 A VESSEL OF LIGHT One man’s journey from Brazil to Amarillo is making a lasting impact on struggling children and their families. 26 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Ronald McDonald House Wine Women & Shoes On the Cover Contents 32 12 32 THE COWGIRL WAY OF LIFE Phyllis Nickum Golden has gone from the corporate world of running hotels to managing a successful cattle ranch and now shares the ways of the Old West with others. 38 HOMETOWN HAPPENING 24 Hours in the Canyon 42 A PASSION FOR THE GAME The Amarillo Sod Poodles welcome Javier Colina as manager for the 2025 season. 50 BAKING FOR A CAUSE How one woman’s trip to Ukraine began her journey of baking to give back. 58 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Walk a Mile in Their Shoes 62 FUELING THE BODIES AND MINDS OF STUDENTS Snack Pak 4 Kids® is tackling food insecurity for over 40,000 students nationally. 70 COLORFULLY CLOTHING KIDS A dynamic duo makes a difference in addressing clothing insecurity for local children. 76 4-H SPOTLIGHT Sara Grace Cranmer

6 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group Amarillo Living Magazine© is published bi-annually by Hometown Media Group, LLC. hometownmedia.group 502 N Main Street PMB 116 | Weatherford, TX 76086 817.599.6167 | PROUDLY PRINTED IN THE USA 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. W “Bear one another’s burdens, and so you will fulfill the law of Christ.” - Galations 6:2 Terri Huseman Welcome to the latest issue of Amarillo Living, your go-to coffee table companion celebrating the people, history, and stories that make our community unique, from local heroes to hidden gems, capturing the essence of who we are. As I think about what makes Amarillo so special, it always comes back to the stories like the neighbor who started a non-profit with big dreams, the teacher who’s touched lives all around the world, the artist painting beauty into forgotten corners, the cowgirl carrying on a proud legacy or the cheers that echo through the stadium when the Sod Poodles hit a home run. These are the threads that weave together the unique fabric of our hometown, and it’s our joy to bring them to life on these pages. In this issue, you’ll find inspiring profiles of local artisans, behind-the-scenes glimpses into beautiful non-profits, and snapshots that capture the charm of everyday life here. Our team has worked hard to highlight the beauty in the familiar. This magazine is more than just pretty pictures and heartfelt words. It’s a reminder of who we are, what we value, and the shared pride we feel for the place we call home. Thank you for letting us be part of your coffee table and your conversations. We hope this edition sparks memories, invites connection, and maybe even inspires you to look at your hometown with fresh eyes. Here’s to local roots, lasting stories, and the joy of community. WRITERS Terri Huseman Sara Hook Becca Nelson Sankey Cindy Kahler Thomas Ellen Slater Jessica Wesson Martha Mobley PHOTOGRAPHERS Sarabeth Cook H Bargas Photography Luke Oliver Ray Photography Abbi Yott Photography Adair Photography COVER PHOTO Provided by Amarillo Sod Poodle Organization Casey Perkins Executive Publisher Brooke Graham Marketing & Client Relations office@hometownmedia.group Susan Avery Lead Creative Design Terri Huseman Sales Account Executive terri@hometownmedia.group Camela Dietrich Accounts Recievable accounting@hometownmedia.group Hello Amarillo! FREELANCER WANTED We are always in search of GREAT LOCAL TALENT. If you would like to write for any of our area markets, please contact our office at 817.599.6167 or email office@hometownmedia.group

8 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group Written by TERRI HUSEMAN | Photo by H BARGAS PHOTOGRAPHY Here are the top 10 things that make me smile (in no particular order): College graduation offers many transitions that are often just steppingstones into the life created and designed for each of us to live. As a newlywed couple who finished college, my husband and I accepted our first jobs as teachers and moved to Amarillo. While starting our post-college life was exciting, I remember packing all our belongings into the U-haul and making the drive 5 ½ hours north while crying the entire way. We were leaving behind everything we had known in order to move to the Texas Panhandle. That was 30 years ago. Today, Amarillo is the place (and home) where we have raised our children and celebrated all the ups and downs of life. You might not find it competing with the biggest cities in America, but Amarillo offers so many wonderful things that make about 200,000 people continue to call it home. I hope they’ll find that they, too, have things about Amarillo they love and that bring a smile to their face. 10 Things I LOVE about Amarillo Smiles AROUND TOWN 1Sunrises & Sunsets I can’t tell you how many times I have stopped at a traffic light on my way to or from work to take a picture of God’s creation. Wide-open skies and flat plains make for dramatic, colorful sunrises and sunsets that seem to last forever. There is beauty in the simplicity of our open land that brings a smile to my face. 2 Friends We have met the best people here. Our friends would do anything for us and hopefully, they know we would do anything for them in return. People in Amarillo treat you as if they are family. They show up to celebrate us at the best of times and bring us kleenex and give hugs at the worst of times. During the most important steps in our lives, they make us smile. 3 Church We have had the privilege of being members of several different churches over the past 3 decades. During different phases of our lives, each church has lifted us up and taught us exactly what we needed at that exact moment. Our faith has grown because of our connections in each of these holy places. There are so many choices of great churches in Amarillo to celebrate and worship. There is something for everyone which makes us smile. 4Kindness of Others 15 years ago, Dyron Howell asked me to team up with him in order to feed 10 hungry kids at the elementary school where I was principal. That partnership has led to feeding 40,000+ kids who are food insecure. Snack Pak 4 Kids is now also working to help grandparents raising their grandchildren, with businesses, colleges and medical systems who know of people living with food insecurity. In addition to Snack Pak, there are so many other organizations who strive to support others: KHUB, Colorful Closets, Storybridge, Refugee Language Project and so many more. Helping others is something to smile about. 5 Community Gardens Approximately 70% of students in AISD schools qualify for free or reduced lunches. That makes community gardens in schools, churches and neighborhoods critical to help meet nutritional needs of people they serve. Not only do they provide food for others, but they also make our city beautiful. Beautiful places are something to smile about.

9 hometown living at its best 6The Wind Amarillo is considered to be the windiest city in America boasting an average speed of 12.9 mph and a record high of 84 mph. On a hot day, that warm breeze is a blessing that is missed when out of town which makes me smile. 7 The Arts Amarillo Little Theatre is opening its 98th season and the longest continuously running community theatre in America. The talent is like no other. The shows are fantastic and always leave the audience laughing, crying or with something to ponder. Whether it’s the Amarillo Opera, The Symphony, Blank Spaces, The Arts at Sunset Center; I’ve never been to any of these places that I didn’t love, and I always leave smiling. 8 Route 66 Step back in time and cruise through the heart of Amarillo on the legendary Route 66 Historic District. This mile-long stretch along Sixth Avenue is a look back to the golden age of the American road trip. With its quirky antique shops, old school diners, and pubs, Route 66 offers charm and modern flair. This trip down memory lane will surely bring a smile. 9Weather Amarillo weather is known to be one of the only Texas cities to have all four seasons–sometimes on the same day. We have 260 sunny days a year. Our summers are warm and dry with cool evenings to reset the heat of the day. We have an occasional snowfall in the winter and low humidity year round. Amarillo gives you a true taste of the High Plains and something to smile about where the sky is always part of the show. 10 Accessibility Even though Amarillo has the structure of all things big city, it still feels like a small town. You can get anywhere you want to go in 15-20 minutes, you run into friends or colleagues at the grocery store or at a favorite local restaurant and everyone knows everyone. It’s the biggest small town around and I hope you smile about living here too.

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12 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group Join us in congratulating them with prayers & well wishes for their future endeavors. Contact our office for information on being featured in our next HOMETOWN GRADUATES SECTION. office@hometownmedia.group 1 2 3 4 5 7 8 6

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16 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group Written by BECCA NELSON SANKEY Photos provided by CLAY VESSELS LEARNING CENTER A VESSEL of ight L Driven by a divine calling, one man’s journey from Brazil to the U.S. is making a lasting impact on struggling children and their families.

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18 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group DDespite growing up in a poor neighborhood in Brazil, Tiago Araújo’s parents always involved him in extracurricular activities including soccer, basketball, swimming, martial arts and English classes. Some of his neighbors and peers weren’t so lucky: They struggled with street violence, pornography, sexual abuse, alcohol and drugs until the point of some losing their lives. Araújo understood early on what could happen to children who grew up impoverished and not knowing God, with parents who weren’t engaged in their lives. Somehow, some way, he knew he had to stop that cycle—wherever it was that God planted him. Ultimately, that place was on another continent, nearly 5,000 miles away in Amarillo, Texas. It took years of prayer, divine visions, discernment, and planning, and in August of 2024, Araújo and The Church at Bushland opened Clay Vessels Learning Center in a donated church in an impoverished neighborhood. The free after-school program is a place where, five days a week, 20 students from Mesa Verde Elementary School can enhance their education with homework help, and classes in arts, reading, writing, cooking, STEM and other activities. “We have volunteers who teach science and principles of engineering twice a week, and we are about to start coding and principles of robotics,” Araújo said. “We also have a mini library, a playroom, a recreation room, a music room and a brandnew playground area. Our mission is to provide a transformative and holistic learning experience the children might never otherwise have.” Perhaps just as important, Araújo teaches a Bible lesson every day called Bible Seed and Hope Choice volunteers also run another program on Wednesdays called Reach for Greatness, and both apply Biblical principles to the kids’ day-to-day lives. “We talk about bullying, friendship, social media, learning from our mistakes, loving others, all the things those kids need to hear,” Araújo said. “That’s something we tell our serve team: We need to be Jesus for them, not necessarily preaching or showing them a Bible verse, but doing life with them, discipling them so when they are asking

19 hometown living at its best for help or they have a problem or need prayer, they know where we are, and they know who we are. We are here for them.” For Araújo and his family, which includes wife, Nina, and their children Tito (8), Clara (3), and Timothy (10 months), the road to America was long and arduous, and the vision that led to Clay Vessels was not clear for many years. Araújo first felt the tug to move to the U.S. when his family visited America several years ago. “We were in Florida, and we felt the Lord called us here, so we searched for answers and prayed for six years trying to understand how that would happen,” said Araújo, who was a professor in Brazil at the time. Tommy Spencer of The Church at Bushland went to Brazil on a mission trip and conference, and Araújo was his interpreter. “The first day of the conference, Tommy said, ‘Can I pray for you?’” Araújo recalled. “He said, ‘I feel your calling is not only for your local church and not only for Brazil. You have a calling for the nations, and the Lord is telling me you’re going to go to another place and that calling will start through studying. Be ready when the opportunity arises, you will see it. And don’t worry about your finances because God will send the sponsors.” Araújo had been a part-time pastor for seven years and said Spencer’s words “increased the flame I had in my heart for missions.”

At that same conference, a young girl named Kylee Gillenwaters, from Amarillo, approached Araújo and told him the Lord was asking her to give him a little simple gift, and she placed that small object in his hand. It was a trinket depicting a Texas flag emblazoned with the word Dallas. One year later, in 2020, a former student contacted Araújo with a message from God. The Lord, she said, told her in a dream to pray for a man named Tiago, and for his family to move to Dallas to study at Christ for Nations Institute, a Bible college. It was the sign Araújo needed: That year, he and his family made the long trek from Brazil to Ecuador during the pandemic, where they quarantined for several weeks before they finally got their student visas and made it to Dallas, where he enrolled in January of 2021 in Christ for the Nations for a bachelor’s in theology and practical ministry. “The Lord was filling me with dreams and visions for a program along the years. One day I woke up from a dream where God showed me classrooms and the architecture of the building,” Araújo said. He was still left with unanswered questions but continued his schooling and kept in touch with Spencer, who often visited. When Araújo was about to graduate, he called Spencer to tell him about the plans that he started drawing on a piece of paper. “He said, ‘Tiago, let’s pray about it because that vision you have is exactly what our church wants to do in Amarillo.’” A church building was given to us, and our pastor wants to do a project in that community.’ He invited me to come and meet The Church at Bushland. Then, I shared the project vision with Pastor Jeff Ponder and his wife Melissa, we had the opportunity to visit the building at Mesa Verde, see the community, participate in a service in Bushland, and have lunch together and talk, and he said, ‘Tiago, your vision is something great, and we believe that it can be here.’” The church raised funds that provided for the program and applied for a grant for Araújo to run it, and after graduating, in December of 2023, he and his family moved to Amarillo to begin their work, which included plans to renovate the donated building, and build relationships with the community, including its school, teachers, and 20 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group

21 hometown living at its best 21 parents of its students. “We have a huge community of refugees from all around the world, so we built our [volunteer] team, trained them, and started the Clay Vessels Learning Center. We started with 12 kids. I used to say those were my 12 disciples. And we finished the semester in December with 21 kids. Most were born here, but the parents were second generations from eight different nations.” Alicia Raley, a member of The Church at Bushland, was involved with Clay Vessels’ activities from the beginning and has been part of its serve team since the program opened. She volunteers at The Good Shop, a space in the building that provides Clay Vessels’ families with everything from clothing to household items, and more, restoring dignity to them, leading them to experience God’s provision, favor and grace.

22 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group “One of the moms was so blown away by what was available in the shop, and she asked me, ‘Where did this come from?’ I said, ‘People in our church donate items, but ultimately [it comes from] the Lord,” Raley said. “It’s very rewarding being the hands and feet of Jesus.” In its first year alone, the program has been a hit among the students who attend. “They have dinner before they go home, and that’s provided by High Plains Food Bank’s Kids Café at no cost to them or us,” Araújo said. “Sometimes parents come to pick them up, and the kids hug and hold on to our volunteers, and that’s a good sign they are loving it. It’s almost 6 p.m. and they don’t want to go home.” The Church at Bushland was honored at the AISD Partners in Education Banquet in 2025. Because of the work being done at Clay Vessels Learning Center, they received the Warren Kincaid Memorial Award. “The Church at Bushland's ongoing dedication to supporting Mesa Verde students, families, and staff has made a profound and lasting impact on our school community. Through their after-school program, The Good Shop, and numerous acts of kindness, they have not only provided valuable resources but have also created an environment where students feel cared for, supported, and motivated to succeed,” said Virginia Smith, the principal of Mesa Verde Elementary School. For Araujo, Clay Vessels is a dream come true. “Sometimes we see the parents tired from work, but they come here and see their kids so happy and smiling and excited, telling them what they did that day. That fills my heart with purpose. It affirms I’m doing what God called me to do.” † To donate to Clay Vessels, visit their website at www.thechurchatbushland.com/giving.

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HONORING THE PAST. – AND THE MANY MORE TO COME. Embracing the Future. Here’s to 70 years of service Since 1955, Brown, Graham & Company has partnered with businesses, individuals, and communities across Texas to deliver expert accounting, tax, and advisory services. This year, we celebrate 70 years of financial clarity, meaningful relationships and trusted guidance for what’s next! From our roots in the Texas Panhandle to serving clients across the state, we’re proud of the journey — and excited for what’s ahead. Amarillo (806) 355-8241 Austin (512) 257-8078 Pampa (806) 665-0085 Prosper (972) 346-3100 Spearman (806) 659-2538 bgc-cpa.com

HOMETOWN Happenings

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Amarillo recently hosted its 3rd annual Wine Women & Shoes at Arts in the Sunset – the ultimate girls’ night out! The event opened with a marketplace, featuring vendor shopping, silent auction, live DJ, culinary delights, wine tasting, 360 photo booth, and raffle for a lucky winner to take home $12,000 in prizes. The marketplace was followed by a seated program, which included a live auction, “heads or tails” game, mission moment featuring a former RMHC family, best in shoe contest, awards presentation for outstanding NICU nurses, a fabulous Dillard’s fashion show, and the charming “Sole Men!” 18 men from our community served as Sole Men; raised funds leading up to that night, volunteered their time that at the event and brought the energy on stage with a dance performance. NewsChannel 10’s “Doppler” Dave Oliver raised the most in donations, and was crowned “King of Sole” on stage! It was an amazing night bringing together 350 attendees from across the area to rally behind the Ronald McDonald House mission of providing comfort, care, and support in a homelike environment to families of children receiving medical treatment. The event raised more than $250,000, enough funds to cover 25 percent of the charity’s annual operating budget! Since first opening in 1983, RMHC of Amarillo has provided more than 75,000 nights of “home away from home” to families traveling to Amarillo with sick or injured children. Additionally, the organization operates the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Northwest Texas Healthcare System, a refuge for families within the hospital. Each year, Ronald McDonald House distributes roughly 2,500 toys and gifts to pediatric patients in our local hospitals. To learn more about their work and how to get plugged in as a donor, volunteer, or “wish list warrior”, visit their website at www.rmhcofamarillo.org or follow them on Facebook and Instagram! RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE Wine, Women & Shoes Photos by LUKE OLIVER

By AMY BECKER WILLIAMS CANYON TEXAS Why Canyon? Canyon, Texas, a charming nugget in the Texas Panhandle and a quick 15-minute drive south of Amarillo is steeped in a rich pioneering history of cattle, ranching and the spirit of industrious people. That spirit has built Canyon into a small powerhouse of a town, welcoming to locals, visitors and nearby neighbors. In fact, Canyon is visited by over a half million folks annually and its population and businesses are growing rapidly. Most commonly known as the gateway to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, and as the home of West Texas A&M’s mighty Buffs, Canyon offers up a wealth of fun and opportunity beyond these signature spots. There’s something for everyone in Canyon, so, why not give it a whirl? Exploring Canyon’s historic square is a top attraction for boutiques and eats and is the setting for a calendar full of year-round events including movies, music and holiday celebrations. A standout shop on the square is Ruthette’s Bridal where 100% of their focus and inventory is dedicated entirely to the bride. With over 200 gowns from eight designers, there’s a little something for all tastes and personalities whether you’re looking for elegant, understated, or want that extra flair. Schedule a personalized appointment, plus check out their website for unique bridal extras. Just a half mile or so from the square you’ll find the historic Santa Fe train depot, now home to Pondaseta Brewing Co., a place where great history meets great brews, food, and community. Sit back and relax with a Pondaseta Premium, Castle Black or another of their many cleverly named (and flavored) suds. Another flavorful stop near the square is newcomer Big Tex Burrito, coming soon. This eatery lies just off Hwy 60, under the watchful eye of Canyon’s local landmark cowboy, Tex Randall. Tex has been a Canyon resident since the 1950s and towers over the horizon at 47-feet tall and weighs in at 7-tons. Once Big Tex Burrito opens, be sure to grab a hearty burrito and include Tex in some fun photos while you’re there Venture a little further from the historic square to experience even more of what Canyon has to offer at Creek House Honey Farm and The Lumberyard. Over time, the honey farm has developed into so much more than its early days as an apiary, or bee yard. So of course, go for honey, but stay for the honey wine, a relaxing lunch, and a stroll through the honey-inspired gift shop. Be sure to investigate the educational bee classes and visit their beautiful event center, a perfect space for your next big gathering. A different type of gathering destination is at The Lumberyard, and yes, it’s in the town’s actual, old lumberyard! Instead of selling lumber, it’s selling a good time with a lively outdoor concert venue and a restaurant where you can indulge in smoked brisket tacos and help yourself to any one of 20 beers from their self-serve beer wall. Grab a table inside, or go for the even more laid-back vibe on the patio for games, live tunes and relaxing with friends, 4-legged ones included. 28 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group

Other contact information: Palo Duro Canyon State Park: 806-488-2227, www.https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/palo-duro-canyon Ruthette’s Bridal: 806-452-8008, www.ruthettes.com Pondaseta Brewing Co.: 806-656-5100, www.pondaseta.com Big Tex Burrito: (number and website available closer to opening day) Creek House Honey Farm: 806-381-3446, www.creekhousehoneyfarm.com The Lumberyard: 806-804-3000, www.thelumberyardcanyon.com ActionCOACH: 806-557-2240, www.westtexas.actioncoach.com What’s Happening in Canyon? Fall and Winter 2025 Autumn Street Fest Saturday, September 27 | 8 AM - 12 PM Downtown Square Halloween Spooktacular Friday, October 24 | 5:30 - 7:00 PM Downtown Square Christmas in Canyon Saturday, December 6 Downtown Square PRESENTED BY CANYON FARMERS MARKET Fall fun, local goods, music & community celebration! PRESENTED BY CANYON MAIN STREET Family-friendly trick-or-treating with local businesses. PRESENTED BY CANYON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. Join us for a festive day of shopping, Santa, holiday cheer & more. In collaboration with Canyon Main Street & Canyon Farmers Market. As you can see, Canyon is booming with interesting places to visit, but some of the businesses are a different genre, like ActionCOACH of West Texas where you can receive personalized coaching and planning for your business’ growth and success. They offer varied services including professional development and training to fit your needs and goals. There really is something for everyone in Canyon! WHETHER YOU LIVE IN CANYON, WANT TO LIVE IN CANYON, OR ARE JUST VISITING THIS INDUSTRIOUS TOWN, YOU’LL CERTAINLY FIND COOL PLACES, A STRONG COMMUNITY AND THRIVING SPIRIT! For more details about Canyon and its opportunities, check out the new Visit Canyon website at www.visitcanyon.com. Stay Connected Facebook: @VisitCanyonTX @CanyonMainStreet @CanyonEDC Website: www.VisitCanyonTX.com Visit Canyon 29 hometown living at its best

30 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group Visit Canyon

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32 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group Written by ELLEN SLATER | Photos provided by PHYLLIS NICKUM GOLDEN Phyllis Nickum Golden has gone from the corporate world of running hotels to managing a successful cattle ranch and now shares the ways of the Old West with others. COWGIRL Way of Life The

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34 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group TTo tell the story of how Phyllis Nickum Golden, who grew up in the hotel industry, ended up running a successful cattle ranch as well as a western adventure and tourism company, you must start at the beginning. My father was a successful hotelier," said Phyllis, "He helped found Holiday Inns of America. He taught me a great understanding of quality service as it pertained to the hotel industry from the ground up. I learned a lot as a child sitting on his knees as he worked." After attending Northeastern State University in Oklahoma, it was a given that Phyllis would work in the hotel industry. She ended up doing just that as a manager for the Shaner Hotel Group, where she managed hotels all over the country. "My job was to go into underperforming hotels and make them viable again," said Phyllis. "I learned that every person who works in a hotel is important and valuable. My job was to develop a plan and motivate the employees." Phyllis moved to Amarillo in 1994 and managed the Ambassador Hotel along with providing oversight to several other large Amarillo hotels. "The main reason I moved to Amarillo was to be closer to my parents who were elderly," she said. "I wanted to be in close driving distance to them."

35 hometown living at its best 35 While living in Amarillo, Phyllis met and married local lawyer and rancher, Ronald Nickum. According to Phyllis, after marrying her husband she became more immersed in the cowboy way of life. Phyllis, who had ridden horses in her youth, began riding with the cowboys on cattle gatherings and brandings. "I developed a true and deep understanding and love of the cowboy way of life,” she said. "I wanted to honor the cowboys and cowgirls and pioneers of West Texas, and came up with the concept for Cowgirls and Cowboys of the West." Phyllis explained that the ranch already owned quarter horses and a chuck wagon, so she decided to offer horse riding and private chuck wagon catering for groups such as family reunions, tour groups and corporate events. "Guests come from all over the world to visit the ranch and ride our horses on the rim of Palo Duro Canyon," said Phyllis. "They ride through Los Cedros Ranch with experienced cowboys and cowgirls who give a brief history of the land. They then get to experience an authentic chuck wagon dinner." Sadly, Phyllis' husband passed away in 2017, but she decided to continue to work the ranches with Ronald's partner Jim Kingston. Several years ago, Phyllis reunited with her college sweetheart Douglas Golden and they were married. In addition to running the ranch and Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West, Phyllis also keeps busy with volunteer work at various non-profits in the community. She was recently named the first female President of the 102 -year- old Amarillo Tri-State Fair Exposition. The Fair Exposition located in the heart of Amarillo has ten buildings, a rodeo arena and an equestrian center. Events held at the venue include horse competitions, cattle competitions, Chamber balls and many other family-friendly events. Their major fundraiser is the annual Amarillo Tri State Fair. According to Phyllis, the non-profit agency's mission statement sums up their goals. "We are committed to enriching the community by strengthening the local economy, supporting education and hosting family friendly events," said Phyllis. "Each year our organization gives $100,000 in college scholarship

36 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group money to Panhandle area youth. It's an honor to be President and to do my part in forwarding our mission statement." Phyllis also helps to further educational goals by hiring students from West Texas A&M University to work as crew at the ranch. "Many of the students who attend West Texas A&M want to go into agriculture and cattle ranching," she said. "This is a perfect opportunity to put into practice everything they're learning at the University." Students interested in working at the ranch submit an online application. There are 10-15 people on the crew, so the process can be competitive. "Most of the students who work for me have gone onto very successful careers, "said Phyllis. "They've become cattle ranchers, veterinarians, horse trainers, business entrepreneurs and doctors." Phyllis says her favorite aspect of Cowgirls and Cowboys of the West, is the opportunity it gives her to share her way of life with others. "I love being close to the land and animals," she said. "I look out the window at my house and I see Palo Duro Canyon- God's creation. It's an honor to be able to share our deep western heritage with others. from all over the world. The people of Amarillo are amazing, and they exemplify what the western way of life represents." † For those interested in visiting Cowgirls and Cowboys of the West, visit their website at CowgirlsandCowboysintheWest.com.

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HOMETOWN Happenings The 19th annual "24 HOURS IN THE CANYON" event, held from May 31 to June 1, 2025, transformed Palo Duro Canyon into a vibrant hub of cycling and philanthropy. This remarkable gathering drew over 850 participants and a multitude of spectators and supporters, all united by a common goal: to raise crucial funds for the Cancer Survivorship Center powered by 24 Hours in the Canyon. Cyclists from 25 U.S. states, Canada, and the U.S. Virgin Islands converged in the canyon, riding their bikes with dedication and purpose to support cancer survivors and their caregivers. While final donations are still being tallied, the event is on track to surpass its ambitious goal of raising over $425,000, underscoring the deep commitment of its community. The Cancer Survivorship Center, powerfully driven by the efforts of 24 Hours in the Canyon, plays a pivotal role in providing holistic support to those impacted by cancer. Its mission is to offer FREE comprehensive resources that meet and address the unique and evolving needs of cancer survivors living in the 26 counties of the Texas Panhandle. These vital services encompass a wide array of programs, including fitness guidance, professional counseling, tailored nutrition services, and engaging fun activities designed to uplift and connect. Crucially, the center extends its support to any person diagnosed with cancer, from the moment of initial diagnosis, for life, ensuring continuous care and community. For more information about the survivorship center's invaluable work and programs, visit their website: https://www.24survivorship.org Harrington Cancer and Health Foundation 1732 Hagy Blvd | 806-331-2400 24 HOURS in the Canyon Photos by H BARGAS PHOTOGRAPHY David Robison from Irving, in Dallas, wore a pink tutu to honor his wife Rhonda who has had cancer for 10 years and his daughter Jessica Preston, who died 4 years ago of cancer, he said he wears it every time his goes with his wife to her doctor’s appointments. (L-R) Cancer Survivors Cathy Lozano, Shirley Blank, Angie Vences and Tracy Striley jump up together to celebrate! Jett Jenkins Preston Bird Roger Puckett Josh Bird

39 hometown living at its best Team KK/Faith Over Fear cancer survivors, raised the fourth highest amount for the bike race! Girls Future Cyclist winner Olivia Snedden

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42 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group A PASSION FOR THE GAME Written by SARA HOOK Photographs provided by AMARILLO SOD POODLES ORGANIZATION

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44 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group MMusic comes in many forms, and to many it is the rattling of chain link fences, the cheering of crowds, and the crack of bat on ball as the Amarillo Sod Poodles begin their baseball season. This year the Sod Poodles have welcomed a returning face as their manager: Javier Colina, baseball and coaching vet of 28 years. Colina was a bench coach for the Sod Poodles in 2022 and 2023, helping the team on their way to win the Texas League Championship in 2023. This year he has the same winning mentality. “My goal is to win everything,” Colina said. “You play the game to win, teaching the boys how to play together and win together and of course our main goal is to win the championship.” The Sod Poodles had a slow start to their season, but with one of the youngest teams in the league, Colina said there is a lot of growth going on. No matter what happens they play to win, because a winning mentality is what allows players to adjust well when they move to the big leagues. It’s a mentality that Colina is well suited to teaching. THE AMARILLO SOD POODLES WELCOME JAVIER COLINA AS MANAGER FOR THE 2025 SEASON.

45 hometown living at its best “When you love something, go get ‘em..When you want something, be passionate. Find the way, be hungry for what you want to accomplish.” - Javier Colina

Growing up in Venezuela, Colina was surrounded by the country’s national sport and its fans. His father loved baseball, his community was enthralled by the sport, and Colina himself began playing when he was just six years old. His passion for the game and his drive to win only grew with time. “I loved baseball too much,” Colina said. “I told my parents I want to play professional baseball one day.” His chance came when he was 17 and a scout from the USA came to view a showcase trial. Colina excelled, and began his first professional season with the AZL Rockies in 1998. The culture of the game was different, he said, because Venezuelan fans tend to be a little more passionate and find the sport a little less serious. Part of that environment is caused by the length of a baseball season. In the United States minor league baseball teams often play over 140 games – over double that of the Venezuelan teams, who play around 60. “Every game matters, so it’s more intense,” Colina said. “You see that here for the most part in the playoff and final of the world series.” Working through those cultural differences taught him a valuable lesson about enjoying the game he played. “Early in my career I was trying... to be too perfect, and I was hard on myself,” Colina said. “It’s hard to compete and be the best you can be every single day for

47 hometown living at its best 140 games. It’s almost impossible to do.” Instead, Colina said, every player needs to learn to trust who he is and to play each day without worrying about the mistakes of the last game. Success is a mental challenge as well as a physical one. “I can’t control what happened today; let me be ready for tomorrow,” Colina said. The training and the personal growth paid off; Colina played 11 seasons of professional baseball, as well as several seasons independently, before he retired. Those professional seasons were with the Rockies, Cardinals, Reds, and White Sox, with parts of four seasons in Triple A. During his time as a player he won 6 championships, including one representing Venezuela in the Caribbean Series. As a manager, Colina’s goal is to pass off those years of growth and experience to his players and his coaching staff. He wants every person to succeed, to stay in the game, and to make their personal goals come true. In such a demanding game there are often more failures than successes, but Colina strives to give his players the resources they need to enter major league baseball, as well as what they need to grow as people. “I want [to] impact their life,” Colina said. So far his coaching has helped lead 5 teams to win the championship: three as coach and two as manager. He said he looks forward to winning another. In Colina’s journey as a baseball player and coach he has been blessed with many opportunities, but it wasn’t those opportunities that gave him success. Colina’s passion for the game and his drive to succeed are the real markers of his professional career. Luck, after all, doesn’t get someone to his goals. “When you love something, go get ‘em,” Colina said. “When you want something, be passionate. Find the way, be hungry for what you want to accomplish.” Every day is a new day to work hard toward a goal, no matter what that goal is. For Colina and the Sod Poodles, that goal is play baseball and to win games and Amarillo, Colina said, is a perfect place to do just that. “The people here in this town [are] so engaged with the games, and they support the team 24/7,” Colina said. “It’s a beautiful place to be and I cannot wait to for all of us to have success.” †

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Baking for a Cause How one woman’s trip to Ukraine began her journey of baking to give back. 50 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group Written by CINDY KAHLER THOMAS | Photos provided by GLENDA MOORE

GGlenda Moore has always had a heart for people in need, and after a trip to Ukraine in 2013, she saw a need to help those graduating out of orphanages. At the age of 16, they could go to college or trade school, but without a family to help them, they didn’t have simple items such as pillowcases, sheets or the necessities that parents would normally purchase to help when they moved on to the next stage of their lives. “I came home from the trip and told my mother that I wanted to help the kids in Ukraine. She told me, ‘Well, you are going to learn to bake!’ When she said that, she was saying that I had to get over my stubbornness of not baking and learn how to do it, even though I was never a baker,” Glenda said. 51 hometown living at its best

In the early days of bringing her plan to fruition, Glenda would go to her mother’s house before the hint of sunrise at 4 am where together, they would make cinnamon rolls before school. Glenda was a teacher and would then bring the cinnamon rolls around to different schools to sell them, which is how she and her mother, Glenda Sue Hobson, started raising money for their cause. Things quickly changed at the end of 2013, when Crimea was annexed into Russia, and the disruption led to war. “Many people think that the war started in 2022, but it started in 2014 in the Donbas area. That is the area closest to the border of Russia. After the war started, people didn’t have natural gas, they didn’t have electricity, and they didn’t have a local grocery store. They didn’t have the means to provide for themselves. All the people that lived in the little villages that had money or relatives they could go to left the villages. The only people that remained were disabled and the elderly” Glenda explained. By this time, Glenda had people in the Ukraine to help distribute funds she had raised, and those funds helped provide villagers with coal, medicine, food, and other needed supplies. “So that’s what we did. I baked cinnamon rolls out of my house and then started to bake other things. Of course, my first couple of cakes were a complete disaster. But you just keep going,” she said, “The more I helped people in Ukraine, the more they were grateful! What helped us the most in the Ukraine was my contact Dmitry Pashchenko. He is the Director of Operations there and I am the Director of Operations here in Texas.” 52 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group

For over nine years, Glenda ran the baking operation lovingly dubbed KHUB (Kind House Ukraine Bakery) out of her house until two years ago, when she opened a storefront solely run by herself and a large group of volunteers. Everything that KHUB makes from sales goes directly to help the people of Ukraine. Last September, Glenda took her 17th trip to Ukraine, “We have built 2 kitchens there. One in the Kharkiv area, and one in Nikopol, and those kitchens feed thousands of people every week. We have helped repaired bomb shelters, and have rescued 3,000 people out of the war zones of Ukraine.” Last year funds from KHUB helped to buy over a thousand units of thermal underwear. “Some people ask us if they can send things to Ukraine, but we want to do our best to do what’s called responsible missions, where we want to create a better economy in the place that we’re supporting. The money we send has more bang for its buck when it is directly supporting the people and economy in Ukraine. We are helping families receive warm clothing to wear so that they will be able to survive in the winter,” she said. KHUB itself is completely run by volunteers with a crew of about 40 that come to the bakery to help each week. “It is a super thing to be a part of. It feels a little miraculous every day that I walk in, and all these people are there to volunteer,” Glenda said. “It’s important for me to make them understand that this bakery cannot function without them. Some people can only give an hour or so, but when everyone comes together and does their part, the whole thing comes together.” 53 hometown living at its best

54 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group

55 hometown living at its best As Glenda and volunteers are baking, they make it fun by turning on music and socializing but Glenda also makes a point to have reports coming in about what’s happening in Ukraine. She likes volunteers to be able to hear firsthand accounts and news, so they truly feel and understand that they are helping to save lives there. In addition to delicious baked goods, KHUB plays a vital role in supporting Ukraine by selling donated items to raise funds. Local authors have hosted book signings, generously contributing their books, while community members have donated crafts, paintings, and various other handmade items, all coming together to make a meaningful impact. It is truly the most meaningful giveback, people come and buy things at the bakery, and in turn, they help with humanitarian aid in Ukraine. “I think it is very moving and emotional for people to come in and realize what they are doing whenever they pay for their items. We have what we call the least minimum donation for products, but they can always donate above that, and most people do. It’s a beautiful thing to be a part of that in our community,” Glenda said. “I want everyone to know that the people in Ukraine are hugely grateful for everything we do to help them, that people sacrifice their time, money and effort to make sure that an entire civilization doesn’t disappear.” † KHUB is located at 4715 S. Western Street. Their business hours are Tuesday-Friday, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. They are a 501c(3) organization and donations for this cause can be made directly on their website, Facebook or Instagram.

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HOMETOWN Happenings The Bridge Children's Advocacy Center hosted "Walk A Mile in Their Shoes" May 3, 2025. Held annually, the event brings to a close Child Abuse Awareness Month emphasized each April. Close to 70 participants showed their support of Texas Panhandle children by walking (or running) the mile. Participants received a t-shirt to commemorate the day, enjoyed hot Roasters Coffee and a magic show hosted by Amarillo Magic Company. Before the race began, Mollie Swafford, the Development Director for The Bridge said, “Walk a Mile in Their Shoes commemorates the courage it takes for our kids to tell what they're experiencing. It's a public health crisis, and it's up to adults to know the signs, report abuse, and respond appropriately.” Each child who crossed the finish line received a pinwheel - the universal symbol for Child Abuse Awareness. In the fiscal year of 2023-2024, donors at The Bridge nurtured 965 Texas Panhandle children on their journey toward healing and justice in the wake of abuse. Learn more about how to talk to your child about body safety today: www.bridgecac.org WALK A MILE in their Shoes Photos by SARAHBETH COOK

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62 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group Written by MARTHA MOBLEY | Photos provided by SNACK PAK 4 KIDS ® Snack Pak 4 Kids® is tackling food insecurity for over 40,000 students nationally. FUELING the BODIES & MINDS of STUDENTS

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64 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group Fourteen years ago, Dyron and Kelly Howell went to work solving a problem. They had learned that Amarillo was the largest city west of Dallas without a weekend food program and reached out to Principal Terri Huseman at Will Rogers Elementary to see if she had students who faced weekend food insecurity. They knew that being hungry meant a lot of things, but to a student expected to focus and learn at school each day, hunger meant an obstacle to learning. After that meeting, they packed ten bags of brand new, brand name food on their kitchen table and delivered them to the school to be given to the students on Friday. Snack Pak 4 Kids® is more than a food program. The goal is to be a resource for our educators. Teachers need tools to set their students up for success, and Snack Pak’s tool is food. They partner with the schools in each community to make sure every child experiencing food insecurity has access to weekend food. Why? Because kids can’t learn if they’re hungry, but they can change the world when they’re full. ™ Seven years after forming SP4K, with needs rising, a partnership was forged with food distributor Labatt. Working directly with major brand food companies, a buying cooperative was created to leverage pricing and availability of quality food products, not just for Snack Pak 4 Kids®, but for other nonprofits around the state of Texas. The Snack Pak 4 Kids® Buying Cooperative now serves more than 40,000 students in Texas and New Mexico as well as Spokane, Washington; Minnesota; and Juneau, Alaska. Today, there are more than 42 Snack Pak 4 Kids® communities in the Texas Panhandle. With amazing volunteer leadership, Snack Pak 4 Kids® provides 12,000-13,000 Snack Paks each week for children in these rural communities, as well as Amarillo. It is volunteers who prep the products, pack the bags, and distribute the bags to schools. Their volunteers come from all walks of life: they are retirees, families, school and civic groups, veterans, sports teams, students, corporations, and individuals. “Our volunteer workforce enables us to give our kids the best—the best food and the best service—all provided consistently with dignity and respect.” said Founder and Executive Director, Dyron Howell. “The students we serve shouldn’t be labeled as poor or less than. They are, simply put, our future. And they deserve the best we can provide.” KIDS CAN’T LEARN WHEN THEY’RE HUNGRY

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