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4 amarillo living magazine 8 ON EAGLES’ WINGS Talon Point Retreat Center offers aTexas Panhandle experience for the ages. 14 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Match Race Madness 18 LEAPING INTO ACTION The El Barrio Lions Club builds a better community through service. 24 HOMETOWN ENGAGEMENT Rylee Garrison and Hunter Wilkinson of Borger, Texas. 26 A STEP BACK IN TIME A visit to the Jack Sisemore RV Museum is like taking a step back into a quieter and simpler time and place. 32 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Christmas Roundup 36 POST CARDS FROM THE PANHANDLE The Forgotten Roads Series Contents On the Cover Photo by Henry Bargas 32 18 44 BOOM ADVENTURES Brothers-Sisters of our Military honors veterans, grows community and provides once-in-a-lifetime hunts. 52 4-H SPOTLIGHT Emi Schooler, daughter of Bekah and Tom Schooler and member of the Potter County Blue Ribbon Club, is a rockstar inside and out of the show ring! 56 MOVING FORWARD, WITH NOT ONE LEFT BEHIND The Veterans Resource Center aides with an abundance of post-service needs. Meet some of our heroes leading the efforts, and benefitting from them. 62 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Coach Kent Meadors’ Retirement Honored 65 OUTDOOR LIFESTYLES GUIDE Inspiration for your spring hangout spot! 72 2022 WEST TEXAS FUTURITY The annual West Texas Futurity welcomes competitors from across the U.S. to Amarillo.
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Amarillo Living Magazine© is published quarterly by HometownMedia Group, LLC. hometownmedia.group 502 NMain 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. WRITERS Glover Don Davis Susan Turner Martha Mobley Andrea Elise Taylor Grimm PHOTOGRAPHERS Henry Bargas Ashley Ray Lindsay Harp Emily Coffeen Brady Smith Susan Turner Matt &Heather Martin Executive Publishers “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all of these things will be added to you.” - Matthew 6:33 n with the new and hold onto the tried and true. My hometown continues to show true grit that will never quit. In 2022, we rustled through new challenges and set our compass on true North, as we are a tight-knit community that faithfully shows up and keeps on trucking. The people of this town consistently rally around one another—neighbor for neighbor, bearing out resilience and determination. We have seen struggle, hardship, change, and new norms, but we have also seen compassion, action, willingness, and strength. I am blessed to call Amarillo home with authentic folks. We have continually seen locally owned businesses display resilience and loyal followings withstand the test of time. As we look forward to 2023, we have ushered in an Amazon hub and trail-blazing concerts at the Starlight Event Center. We waved adios to the Sad Monkey Railroad and welcome to the Sad Monkey Mercantile. Snack Pak 4 Kids marches on in their mission making sure kids have healthy nourishment not only to feed their body but, their mind as well. Storybridge continues to ensure every child in our city confidently enters school with the ability to read as their arsenal. Amarillo also introduces the Mustard Seed; an all-encompassing facility for women to pursue recovery, hope, and freedom. The passion and growth in Amarillo forge on with the spirit of its people full steam ahead. We take care of each other in drought and harvest. Willingness to sacrifice beats in our hearts. I am so proud and blessed to be born and raised here: 35.2220 degrees N, 101.8313 degrees W. As we saddle up and ride into the new year we use the rearview mirror to help us learn, sharpen focus, and navigate forward. We also resolutely set our eyes on the trail ahead, running full throttle. I am looking forward to joining my family here in Amarillo as we set lofty goals, work hard, play hard, and put our brand on this upcoming year. Hello Amarillo! Casey Perkins Executive Publisher Taylor Grimm Marketing & Client Relations taylor@hometownmedia.group Susan Avery Lead Creative Design PamWilson Sales Account Executive pam@hometownmedia.group Tammy Smith Sales Accounts Receivable ON THE COVER Photo by Henry Bargas Pam Wilson Sales Account Executive
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hometown living at its best 9 P Pioneers on theHigh Plains found early on that survival depended on working together. Homesteads were miles apart; surface water was scarce and natural landmarks were virtually non-existent. Life and death turned on providence and the decisions made in the midst of drought, wildfires and blizzards. Only the stars seemed close. The only constant, besides the Panhandle wind, was the hand of a neighbor. Where they banded together, pioneers made the promises of the prairie reality. With that same pioneer spirit of both sel f -suf f iciency and considerat ion for your neighbor, the Panhandle Children’s Foundation, Inc (PCFI) was created in 2003. Its purpose is to assist disabled, disadvantaged and seriously ill children within a 100-mile radius. PCFI assistance can be as simple as school supplies, or it may mean answering a call from Child Protective Services. Other assistance includes emergency and family support (like transportation, lodging and meals for medical appointments) special Olympics, and life skills programs offered at Panhandle schools. One of the most concentrated PCFI effort is hosting children’s camps, such as Camp Agape of Amarillo. To that end, Talon Point Retreat Center plays a pivotal role, giving these kids a place to call their own. Located between Dumas and Channing on FarmRoad 722, Talon Point is the definition of an oasis. In an area best described as a windy, arid plain, the center’s sheltered courtyard draws travelers to generous shade beneath 50 year old elm trees. In their highest attended years, PCFI and Talon Point served around 700 special needs children at no cost to the family. The almost 60-acre property is a realworld example of seeing others in need and, in compassion, offering one’s worldly goods. Second-generation Panhandle farmer Henry Ham was the original owner. His family homesteaded four sections inMoore County, their first home was a half dugout. The house later built to “prove up” the homestead stood where the present Talon Point lobby now Talon Point Retreat Center offers Texas Panhandle experiences for the ages. BY SUSAN TURNER
stands. Mr. Ham was among the first farmers to irrigate cropland from the Ogallala aquifer. As a result, he built a substantial Tudor-style brick home and ample barns. In the 1970s Mr. Ham gifted the property to his son and daughterin-law as a venue to build a Christian retreat, New Beginnings. The original New Beginnings facility contained a chapel, office, kitchen and dining area, all of which remain core to Talon Point today. In the 1980s, a volunteer group built additional facilities, including the 42-roomhotel. In 2006 Mr. Ham’s legacy became the property of Panhandle Children’s Foundation. However, brick and stone do not make a refuge, and it is the talent and servant hearts of Talon Point Directors, David and Carolyn Riggins, that make the historic property an oasis for the soul. By providential design, David and Carolyn became part of Talon Point in 2011. Besides David’s considerable expertise with barbecue meals and Dutch oven cooking, they had no knowledge of the Talon Point expectations. It turns out that Carolyn’s organizational gifts, marketing skills and knowledge of what it takes to get results fit the director job description very well. David’s agricultural background that entailed broad knowledge of repairing things without replacing them and working “from can ‘til can’t” made him an ideal candidate as well. Fromdayone theymade improvements tomake the facility feel like home. As awareness of Talon Point rose, bookings saw steady improvement. “We were pretty well booked solid in 2018 and 2019,” David says. “Pre-COVID, we had an average of 5,000 to 7,500 guests annually. Until COVID came in 2020 we were set to have our biggest year ever. The next couple of years were a challenge, but groups are starting to return.” The children’s camps have returned and Talon Point annually hosts four: Camp Agape, Ace Camp, Camp Agape Junior and Camp Agape Teen. Trained counselors and “Ace” campers, high-functioning special needs individuals, staff each camp. Parents and siblings are included in the junior and teen camp activities. “Talon Point offers the chance for kids to be kids with no expectations of goals or stress of any kind,” David says. “A wheelchair swing was donated as an Eagle Scout project, and I wish everyone could see the look on a kid’s face who has never felt the sensation of flying off the ground in a 10 amarillo living magazine
swing.” He said the swing came apart of a larger set which has stations specifically designed to accommodate children with autism. “At first we thought, well the kids might really enjoy that, we can teach them how to use it,” he says. “To our amazement the kids were drawn to that equipment like a magnet. They went right to it and figured it out on their own.” David and Carolyn have made Talon Point a destinationformuchmorethanchildren’scamps. Whether reunions, weddings, quinceaneras, cookoffs, or corporate retreats—their reputation extends beyond Panhandle borders. They have even hosted a Canadian-based dairy genetics organizationwithparticipants from15countries. “We try to take every event above and beyond expectations,” Carolyn says. “We cater to any personal requests. There is no such thing as getting by with a routine. When I made sourdough bread for one of our children’s groups, I made sure the sourdough flavor was unmistakable, so the tastewas a lastingmemory. The Canadian group requested a truly Texas experience, and we delivered. David and crew grilled ribeyes for 300 guests served by a staff of volunteer board members decked out in authentic Texas wear.” Not satisfied merely preparing unparalleled desserts and sides to complement David’s grill fare, Carolyn is the last person in the meal preparation line, making sure the presentation is right or back it goes to the kitchen. Timing is everything in serving hundreds of guests, and it could not be done without the talent and dedication of support staff. The result is returning customers supporting Panhandle children. Friendship Quilters of Perryton is one of those returning customers. This past September marked a seamless 17-year tradition of annual retreats at Talon Point. Members hail from Kansas, Oklahoma and towns scattered across the Panhandle. The serenity and service of Talon Point brings them back. Like pioneers before them, these ladies draw inspiration from the open prairie, piecing together the colors of friendship and home. Their dinner table stories of mothers, grandmothers, aunts, friends, and othermentors of their craft touched
immortalizing the women in their lives. Like wildflowers after rain, brilliant fields of color emerged from deft hands and the peaceful whir of sewing machines. In the quiet of Talon Point, immersed in what they love, they burned the workroom lights past midnight. Remembering neighbors near and far, among other beneficiaries, the work of their hands finds its way to Quilts of Valor, ConKerr Cancer for children and the Harrington Cancer Center of Amarillo. In addition to guest bookings, Talon Point funding comes from grants David writes, and he and Carolyn both search out resources for non-profits. Sometimes things just arrive on their doorstep unannounced, however, suchas thechuckwagon. Annually, a surveyor group stays at Talon Point as part of hands-on training for modern-day surveyors to learn the oldways. Tascosa, the original wild-west city of the Panhandle, serves as the starting point from which they locate metes and bounds using 19th century technology. One year, to help set the stage one of the participants brought out his original 1900s chuckwagon. David
hometown living at its best 13 and Carolyn were out early to help tend the fires and cook a Dutch oven breakfast for the group. After his second year bringing the wagon, Sam asked David if they would like a chuckwagon. David accepted. At events on the grounds of Talon Point, it is the image of Panhandle heritage and hospitality. Talon Point is blessed with an army of volunteers. “Groups of all kinds come out to volunteer,” David says. “For instance, The Texas Department of Criminal Justice in Dalhart has a “community squad”—prisoners who do work for area non-profits. Their crews have painted nearly every room in the hotel, done landscaping and general maintenance. When they get off the bus, I shake their hand and ask their name. We serve them meals and treat themwith respect. Several have said that was what helped them integrate back into society. Some have sent letters and called to thank us for letting them serve. It is truly a blessing to us for them to come out here and help.” Whether a children’s event, family reunion or corporate meeting, the over-arching need that David and Carolyn meet is making Talon Point guests feel that they are the center of their hosts’ attention—not just on the surface, but long after visitors walk out the door. Proceeds from rental events go toward maintenance, upkeep and improvement of Talon Point. To inquire about booking an event contact Carolyn at: 806-935-5598 or email talonpoint4u@yahoo.com. For more information about the Panhandle Children’s Foundation, Talon Point Retreat Center or how to contribute to their mission, visit talonpoint.org. †
HOMETOWN Happenings
hometown living at its best 15 The two-day Match Race Madness event was held on September 16 and 17, 2022 at the Amarillo Dragway. Event attendees enjoyed drag racing and livemusic displays. On Friday Cameron James Smith and The Band Monarch preformed from the pits, followed by local band Touching Voodoo Saturday night. Funny cars, Nitro fuel altered, outlaw doorslammer shootouts, jet dragsters and more were in action both nights. During the day Aviators, from a local airfield volunteered their time to fly formations and blow jet smoke. Congratulations to all winners! JUNIOR DRAGSTER Winner: Tristen Glenn Runner Up: Peyton Saunders NOSTALGIA SUPER STOCK Winner: Travis Wagoner Runner Up: Juan Pablo 6.80 Winner: Steve Milam Runner Up: Donny Drury QUICK Winner: Matt Diamond Runner Up: Cody Melton SMALL TIRE Winner: Jack Roberts Runner Up: Michael Dickinson Photos by LINDSAYHARP PHOTOGRAPHY MATCH RACE Madness
16 amarillo living magazine 2 san angelo lifestyles TEXAS BREAST SPECIALISTS–AMARILLO 1000 S. Coulter Street, Suite 100 Amarillo, TX 79106 806-457-2060 Se habla español. Lova Arenivas, M.D. • Sara S. Woodward Dyrstad, M.D. Breast care experts that specialize in one thing: Texas Breast Specialists–Amarillo uses leading edge technology for breast imaging and diagnostics, including 3D mammography and contrast-enhanced mammography. Leveraging these technologies provides patients with highly accurate results and may help detect some cancers earlier. The fellowship-trained, female physicians of Texas Breast Specialists–Amarillo are committed to helping patients get the care they need. To learn more, please visit TexasBreastSpecialists.com.
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18 amarillo living magazine S Written by MARTHA MOBLEY | Photos Courtesy of STEVEN ROSAS AND EL BARRIO LIONS CLUB MEMBERS The El Barrio Lions Club builds a better community through service. Spanish for “theneighborhood,” El Barrio is very fitting for this community Lions Club, withthat prominent gatheringpoints suchas theWesley Community Center andOur Lady of Guadalupe Church. El Barrio is the section of Amarillo fromArthur Street, extending to Ross-Osage on the west, and south from SE 3rd Avenue, extending to SE 27th Avenue. This sectionof the community is easy to spot with it’s decorative El Barrio signs atop the street signs. El Barrio Lions Club was chartered in December 2021. Steven Rosas and his wife, Katryn, were active volunteers in civic projects for years and felt that organizing a civic club that attracted members from the Hispanic community was important. After some research, Steven felt the Lions Club and theirmissionwas a good fit for El Barrio area of Amarillo. LEAPING into Action
20 amarillo living magazine It was soon evident that El Barrio Lions Club could help meet needs that extended beyond this one area of Amarillo. In its first ninemonths this organizationhashelpedwith many civic projects, and plans for more. One of the first volunteer opportunities was to help prepare bags for Snack Pak 4 Kids. Steven helped do this for six years and felt it would be a good way for the newly formed Lions Club to get into action. On the third Tuesday of each month eight to 12 members would meet at the Snack Pak 4 Kids facility and, alongside volunteers from other civic organizations, churches, and schools, prepare healthy bags for distribution to students in Amarillo and surrounding areaswho are “food insecure.” These snacks provide nutrition for children over the weekends—when they cannot get meals at school. On a typical night, in about 45 minutes, the volunteers prepare 3,700 to 38,00 bags for distribution. El Barrio Lions Club has also helps at the Food Bank; unloading trucks and stocking food items on shelves or in coolers or freezers to await distribution. This is very important because there has been an increase in the number of people in the Food Bank’s service area. This Lions Club also hosted a Cinco de Mayo celebration at Southeast Park on May 7, 2022. Thiswasacombinationof entertainment, food, and resource information. Lively, colorful, traditional dances were performed
by EL Son Del Folklore Dancers. There were bounce houses and face-painting for the children’s enjoyment. The Bomb City Mopar car club had a car show that caught the attention of car enthusiasts. The City of Amarillo and other organizations had booths displaying the resources available to residents of Amarillo. There were free hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, and bottled water. The Downtown Lions Club donated the hamburger patties, and the Lake Tanglewood Lions Club did the cooking. Patriotism is important in our city, and El Barrio Lions Club has worked with the local Kiwanis Clubs under the leadership of WeldonHacker todisplayflagsonprominent residential streets andmajor thoroughfares on Memorial Day, Flag Day, Fourth of July, and Veterans Day. On these days, volunteers put out the flagst 6AM and remove them at 6PM. They are then respectfully stored until the next occasion.
22 amarillo living magazine Another important project is the building of ramps at the homes of disabled persons. The group of ramp builders from El Barrio Lions Club is led by Antonio Jimenez, Jr. They have built four ramps so far this year andplan to build several more before the end of 2022. Jimenez said, “I had never built a ramp before, but we have gotten these done, and it makes you feel good to help out this way.” When school started in the fall, El Barrio Lions Club became involved in two other projects. With other Lions Clubs, they teamed up with Be Blessed by the Vessel, organized by Tremaine Brown, toprovide backpacks containing school supplies for students in the North Heights area of Amarillo. Some Lions also volunteered to help with the two days of fun activities, many of which involved sprinklers and water balloons, at Bones Hooks Park. The event concluded with distribution of the backpacks. The Lions also helped the Caprock Booster Club by setting up the inflatable tunnel at every Caprock Longhorns home football game. The Lions appreciated building school spirit and community spirit. OnSeptember9thand10thmembers from El Barrio Lions Club joined other volunteers from throughout the city to cleanup the area aroundT-Anchor Lake. This is an area at the intersection of two heavily travelled streets, and it has become an eyesore. Various businesses from the city will provide gloves, trash bags, and snacks for the volunteers. Hopefully this beautification project will serve as motivation for other such projectsnearby and throughout our city.
The monthly schedule for El Barrio Lions Club is as follows: first Tuesday, clean up El Alamo Park; second Tuesday, guest speaker; third Tuesday, volunteer at Snack Pak 4 Kids or the Food Bank; fourth Tuesday, business meeting. Some of the guest speakers have been Edith DiTommaso from El Barrio Planning Committee who showed drawings of projected changes along SE 10th Avenue to enhance the area of El Barrio near Arthur Street, and Kaytlin Wyatt-Rogers of No Boundaries who shared how their ministry helps women who have beenvictims of sex trafficking or of sexual exploitation. El Barrio Lions Club will provide a meal for these women in late September or in October. Another speaker was Robert Ruiz, a candidate for Potter County Commissioner, Precinct 2, who shared with the club about the clean-up project for T-Anchor Lake. The members of El Barrio Lions Club have not onlyhelped in their immediate community, but also have reached out to help meet needs throughoutAmarillo.Whoknowswhatprojects lie ahead in 2023? For more information on participation or joining, visit @ElBarrioLions on Facebook. †
24 amarillo living magazine Photos by: Ashley Ray Photography Bride’s parents: John &Abby Garrison | Groom’s parents: Cody &TriciaWilkinson Venue: Swallow’s Eve in Fredericksburg,Tx Hometown Engagement RYLEE GARRI SON & HUNTER WI LKINSON UPCOMING WEDDING DATE : OCTOBER 23 , 2023
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26 amarillo living magazine Written by MARTHA MOBLEY | Photos by HENRY BARGAS PHOTOGRAPHY A STEP BACK in Time A visit to the Jack Sisemore RV Museum is like takinga step back into a quieterand simpler timeand place.
hometown living at its best 27 T The Jack Sisemore RVMuseum a hidden gem of enjoyment for travelers and locals alike. The museum, whi ch of fers f ree admission, is open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Thismuseum i s fami ly - f r i end ly, of fer ing opportunities for guests to not only see these vintage RV’s but alsowalk through them. It is like taking a step back into a quieter and simpler time and place. Upon entering the museum, visitor’s eyesare immediatelydrawn to HappyMax. This is the actual RV used in RV, the movie
28 amarillo living magazine starring Robin Williams. Happy Max is made from a 1948 Flexline bus body. The visitor enters the RV byway of two steps, just like getting ona bus. There is a sign on the bus, next to the door, that says, “Gornicke,” thename of the family in the movie. Each RV on display has its story on a sign next to it. To give the feeling of camping, each display is staged with outdoor equipment such as a Coca Cola cooler, a Coleman lantern, a fivegallon water can, a Cosco stepstool, folding camp stool, and lawn chairs. The interiors are decoratedwithperiod fabrics for the upholstery, curtains, and bedding. There is also cookware and toys and games reminiscent of an earlier time. In fact, two of the RVs on display are originals, and have not been restored. One is the first Itasca motorhome ever built, a 1975 model bearing the serial number one. There is also a 1936 Alma travel trailer which was a “barnfind,” having been found in a barn 20 miles from the Alma factory. It looks brand new since it was stored in the barnout of theweather since the time it was purchased. There is also an immediately recognizable Chevrolet El Camino which is staged towing a boat. The earliest RV is a 1935 Airstream built by Dr. Holman. At that time, an individual could submit plans for a travel trailer to Airstream for their approval. Once approved, the could build the travel trailer and use the Airstream name. Airstream gave the name “Torpedo” to these plans. Although other travel trailers were built from these same plans, the one at the RV museum is the only one known to still exist. Today Airstream manufactures Basecampwhich is very similar to the Torpedo.
hometown living at its best 29 The museum dates to about 1964. At that time, Jack Sisemore owned a Chevron Standard service stationat 34thandWestern. In 1973, he bought a 1973 Winnebago motorhome. In order to comfortably make the monthly payments, he rented it out to persons who wanted the enjoyment of a motorhome, but not really wanting to purchase one. This worked so well that by the end of 1973, Jack had six of these rentals parked behind the service station. Therewas nomore space for RV rentals at that location. Then, in 1974, he started Jack Sisemore Traveland on I-27 near SouthBonhamStreet. The early days were a bit rough. Each year, about the middle of January, Jack would hold an open house at the dealership, drawing potential customers in with free hot dogs and cokes. This promotion worked well, resulting in about 1000 people walking onto the lot that day, checking out the RVs. Sisemore sold several makes of travel trailers and motorhomes. In 1978, he began sellingWinnebagomotorhomes, making his the oldest Winnebago dealership in Texas. Jack’s love of RVs inspired him to buy RVs for himself. Some he had to restore. He stored them in a building in the back portion of the dealership. When customers were having their RVs serviced or repaired, they enjoyed walking around in this building and seeing the collection of RVs. In the mid 1990’s Jack and his son Trent became partners. The business continued to grow. Trent said, “God really blessed the business.” Approximately 10 years ago, they expanded to have 140,000 square feet of indoor space. This space now houses Sisemore RV Storage and
30 amarillo living magazine Jack Sisemore RVMuseum. When they sold the RV dealership to Camping World in 2017, they kept the Jack Sisemore RV Museum. Inaddition toafloor full ofRVs, thewalls of the museum display memorabilia from bygone days, including signs from service stations. There is also an upright display of RV toys manufactured by well-known companies such as Buddy L and Tonka. Avisit to the Jack SisemoreRVMuseum is kind of a two-for-one experience. Sisemore has shared a portion of the building’s space with the Amarillo Area Motorsports Hall of Fame Association to use as their museum. During business hours, themuseum is staffed by volunteers from this organization. Sometime in the future the Amarillo Area Motorsports Hall of Fame Association plans to build their
museum space is used to display race cars, motorcycles, trophies, photos, and other memorabilia related to the drag racing and dirt track racing in the Amarillo area as well as motorcycle and go-cart racing. The names of many of the Hall of Fame inductees are prominently displayed. One wall has four soap box derby race cars on display. Although soap box race cars do not have motors, and it’s been years since Amarillo has had a soap box derby, some of these Hall of Fame inductees started their racing careers in soap box derbies. One race car driver admitted that his love of racing began at about age two or threewhenhe and his twin brother would race each other on their Big Wheel riding toys. This museum shows the history of motorsports in theAmarilloareaand itspurpose to encourage the continuation of motorsports. As Ott Coppock said of the Amarillo Area Motorsports Hall of Fame, “If we don’t preserve our history, we won’t have a future. These two museums certainly complement one another. Both wonderfully preserve the timeless joy of experiencing the outdoors with family." † hometown living at its best 31
HOMETOWN Happenings
Thousands of shoppers attended the Amarillo Civic Center for the 42nd Annual Christmas Roundup: A Holiday Market November 4-6. More than 135merchants set up pop-up shops in over 200 booths in the North and South Exhibit Halls to allow people to get a head start on their holiday shopping. This celebration of the season will be a weekend filled with shopping, cocktails, entertainment, door prizes and a silent auction. “This is an exciting year for Christmas Roundup. With two full halls of vendors, we are sure this community holiday tradition will bring something for everyone,” 2022 co-chairs Kelly Huckabay and Jessica Needham said. “Christmas Roundup is the prime holiday market for our area and with the community’s support, we are able to provide funding for the many educational programs of the Amarillo Museum of Art.” The Amarillo Museum of Art (AMoA) Alliance, is the exclusive presenter and beneficiary of Christmas Roundup. The proceeds from Christmas Roundup help fund the many educational programs that the Amarillo Museum of Art offers the community. Such programs include: Art Classes and Summer Art Camps for children of all ages, ArtSmart Senior Programming, School Tours, Regional School Outreach to the 26 counties in the Texas Panhandle, the ArtSpace Interactive Gallery, Lectures, Artist Talks and the new Museum in Residence program which focuses on bringing integrated visual arts programming to at risk schools. For more information on merchants and the schedule, visit Christmas Roundup Amarillo on Facebook, @ChristmasRoundupAmarillo on Instagram or visit www.amoa-alliance.com. Courtesy of KELLYHUCKABAY ROUNDUP Christmas hometown living at its best 33
WHEN YOU WERE A KID, WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP? I have always wanted to be a doctor because helping and caring for people is my passion. WHAT MAKES YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS UNIQUE FROM THE REST? At Texas Breast Specialists–Amarillo, we have a team-based approach to patient care. We offer leading technology for breast imaging and diagnostics including 3D mammography and contrast-enhanced mammography. Our physicians at Texas Breast Specialists–Amarillo are all fellowship trained in breast radiology. TEXAS BREAST SPECIALISTS— AMARILLO 1000 S Coulter, Suite 100 Amarillo, TX 79106 806-358-8654 TexasBreastSpecialists.com/Amarillo Lova Arenivas, M.D. Sara S. Woodward Dyrstad, M.D. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF YOUR ROLE? My interactions with patients and being able to care for them to get them the care they need. It’s difficult to give a woman a breast cancer diagnosis, but the best part about my job is knowing that we can help them on this difficult journey with our comprehensive team of physicians, surgeons, and support staff. WHAT IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU HAVE RECEIVED OR WOULD GIVE? Early detection is the best defense against breast cancer, and regular mammogram appointments are an important aspect of women’s health. I recommend mammogram screenings annually starting at age 40 for most women. Also, please discuss any breast symptoms or abnormalities with your provider, whether you are a woman or man. HOWARE YOU INVOLVED IN YOUR COMMUNITY? I am a current board member and serve as the vice president of the Panhandle Cancer Cure Foundation. I also mentor medical students and high school students who are interested in a career in medicine and radiology. HOWDO THE RESIDENTS OF THE COMMUNITY BENEFIT FROM YOUR BUSINESS? Our physicians work closely with the physicians of Texas Oncology to provide patients access to breast imaging, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology services in one location to keep our patients close to home. Q&A with Lova Arenivas, M.D.
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‘Forgotten Roads’ is truly a work of heart. It’s not so much an obituary as a visitation. Spiritual hospice. Brady and I grew up on forgotten roads. This, our inaugural collaborative series of artwork and prose, depicts a descendent story of pioneer masses yearning to breathe free, of vanishing breeds, of success and heartbreak. The objective is to spark memories in the hearts of the old ones and questions in the minds of the young. Conversations will surely follow. That is our hope. FORGOTTEN ROADS SERIES Illustrated and photographed by BRADY SMITH | Poetry and explanation by GLOVER DON DAVIS 36 amarillo living magazine
Forgotten Roads No one has their pictures hanging on the parlor wall. No one comes to visit them No one comes at all. Of course, they look different from when they were younger. That doesn’t mean they’re not alive or they don’t still have that hunger to contribute and be useful and remembered one more time. It’s really not that long ago that they were in their prime. Tomorrow, leave the interstate, the TV and the phone. Take your children with you or maybe go alone. Stroll an old forgotten road and listen for a spell to the silent sound of stories that only an old road can tell. ©Glover Don Davis, 2022 37 hometown living at its best
In 2022 Brady connected with a lady named Gloria Hendricks. Gloria had seen the first of Brady’s paintings from his ‘Forgotten Roads’ series. The painting touched her and she reached out to him with a proposition. “I grew up in Skellytown. Would you do a painting and poem about my old home?” she queried. She ended with, “I think an area museum might like to have it.” Brady accepted and notified Don.. The results are titled “Camp Town Days.” 38 amarillo living magazine
Camp Town Days A few of them are still around, reminders of a lively town, remnants of the booms and busts, souvenirs of what was us. Daddy would visit the working camps where working people lived like tramps. Wooden derricks and walking beams. Symbols of wealth and broken dreams. Daddy took The Word around because they couldn’t come to town. They looked for oil in ancient rock. He looked for lost lambs in the flock. Skeletons of Skellytown, reminders of a lively town, remnants of the booms and busts, souvenirs of what was us. That old church and that old store still standing but there once were more. A little park, a slide and swings, when I was young were everything. I’d take you there if I could. It would do your soul some good. It’s still there but you can’t see the best parts of my memory. ©Glover Don Davis, 2022 In 1949, Rev. Albert Stroh accepted the pastorship at Skellytown Community Church. He moved his family to Texas from Plevna, Kansas between Hutchinson and Dodge City. Gloria was five years old. Along the way they saw their first herd of antelope and their first longhorn. Little did they know that they were moving from one small community near an infamous wild west town to another similar adjacency. From rowdy cowboys to roughnecks. But, like the black gold concealed beneath the rugged panhandle landscape, there was a big heart beating beneath their skin. There was never more proof of that than when Gloria’s mother was diagnosed with cancer and the people of the area made sure the Strohs did not go without. Gloria Hendricks: “We moved to Pampa for less than a year. Dad had to go to work at Whites Appliance because my mom was so sick. We almost lost her. From there we moved to Illinois. The one word that describes those years in Skellytown is Happiness. I felt pure joy when I saw the finished work of Don and Brady. What I want people to know about a small Texas Panhandle town is the people are the best of humanity. Even after all these years when my daughter and I returned, the kind of people that lived here then… they are still here. They are caring, hardworking, kind and respectful. I am happy to be home again.” hometown living at its best 39
40 amarillo living magazine Genre: Poetry Author: Glover Don Davis (The Colony, TX) Author of “The Family Jewels” Davis/Davis Vantage Press, 1995 Background: Inspired by a follower on social media The author’s formative years (~1956-1975) were spent in the Texas Panhandle. His first 18 years were spent in Borger and Spearman. But his works are also built upon the spirits of Oklahoma, Kansas, New Mexico, and Colorado. Many knew him as ‘Donnie’ or ‘DACO’. “Camp Town Days” will also be included in his upcoming anthology titled “Wisps of Life.” The anthology will be a ten-volume set (9-Poetry / 1-Short Stories). The collection began on the day that Covid-19 was declared a global pandemic. The anthology is somewhat reflective of the social climate and emotions of 2020-2022. No publication date has been set. DON DAVIS About the Author
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44 amarillo living magazine Brothers-Sisters of our Military honors veterans, grows community and provides once-in-a-lifetime hunts. WRITTEN BY MARTHA MOBLEY | PHOTOS BY JOE VASQUEZ, NEIL STARKY AND DOUG MOSSER (HTTPS://DOUGMOSSER.PIXIESET.COM/BOOMADVENTURESPATRIOTDAY) Creating a Community of Support and Trust ADVENTURES BOOM
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46 amarillo living magazine BBrothers-Sisters Of Our Military (BOOM) Adventures was created in 2016 to provide hunting experiences for panhandle veterans, especially disabled veterans. Blake Siebrecht, a veteran who served nearly five years in the Marine Corps, wanted to continue to serve his brothers and sisters-in-arms after his enlistment. It is estimated that about 22 veterans commit suicide per day. These veterans often do not have anyone who has gone through similar situations to talk to. After going on a hunt sponsored by Wounded Warriors Project, he said he had a heart-felt desire to do something similar in the panhandle, but he envisioned additional events for veterans to experience a deeper camaraderie. Blake also remembered how our country came together after 9/11. He said he longed for a rejuvenation of the patriotic feeling not only within the military and first responders, but also within the general public. That’swhen the idea for BOOMAdventures was born. Blake met with a new family law
attorney who helped him submit the paperwork for a non-profit. Once formed he met up with Rodney Edwards and Chris Stoffle at Slim’s Pool Palace where they began considering: How can we help better this non-profit? How many hunts can we sponsor each year? How do we get the word out about the hunts? What about accommodations for the physically disabled veterans to participate? Edwards owned a little ranch near Childress where the first hunt took place. Blake said there were seven or eight participants that first year. Now, a typical hunting season has 20 to 30 participants. Not wanting to over-hunt any one area, other landowners in the panhandle were recruited to host on their property. Owners near LeFors, Quail, and Clarendon made their lands available for these hunts. In 2019, two of the organization’s largest supporters , Dr. Troy Moore and Ace Whelchel, stepped up and purchased a 240-acre ranch known as the Bob Wills Homestead near Turkey, Texas. This provided a great place to hunt deer as well as feral hogs. The original home is not habitable, but there is a cabin where hunters can relax, eat lunch, and build relationships in between hunts. To allow as many to benefit as possible, other landowners as far south as Lubbock have made their lands available. News of these guided hunting trips drew interest fromveterans throughout the Texas Panhandle as well as neighboring states. After all, Texas legislation is already written in support with initiatives like the free combination hunting and fishing license for any resident or non-resident that has a 50% or more service-connected disability. However, even with these types of benefits service members would either forget to purchase their license, or could not afford a license upfront. Blake said to tackle this hurdle BOOMAdventures wrote a bill addressing their issue, and—with the help of State Representative John Smithee—they were able to get it passed. The bill allows Texas-resident veterans to hunt without a license while under the care of the non-profit. Blake said they can come with just the shirt on their back and leave with some unforgettable memories. 47 hometown living at its best
48 amarillo living magazine The organization’s events are not limited to serving veterans only. BOOM Adventures partners with the City of Amarillo’s Parks and Recreation Department and Texas Parks and Wildlife to provide fishing camps and tournaments for children in the community. The veterans that have been on an adventure with BOOM benefit by volunteering to help teach these kids how to fish, and they also get to meet other service members that have been on an adventure. The children can fish for catfish which have been stocked in the city park lakes. These are held several times a year, and there is an average of 50 contestants each time. Local businesses including Amarillo National Bank, CEFCO, Party Amarillo, and Academy Sports have provided financial assistance and donated goods so that each child could have his own fishing pole to keep. A biologist from Texas Parks andWildlife talks to the children about the habitat of catfish, and a game warden talks about the rules and regulations of fishing in Texas. For the younger fishermen and women awards are given in several categories such as largest fish caught, most fish caught, and the craziest thing caught.
49 hometown living at its best In addition to incredible hunting and fishing experiences, BOOMAdventures honors our fallen military with special events. They have an Armed Forces Day Banquet in May. In 2021 the 245 attendees feasted on prime rib and chicken. The JRB Run for the Fallen on Armed Forces Day is held in honor of Jack Barnes, a chief petty officer in the Navy, who was given an award for Emeritus Honor and Service. Jack Barnes was a huge advocate for our fallen and instrumental in the formation of BOOM Adventures. Another event, The Gold Star Mother’s Day in September honors mothers and family members who have lost sons or daughters killed in action. There is also the Iwo Jima Flag Run in September. This event brings to memory the raising of the flag on Iwo Jima in World War II. BOOM Adventures also provides the Active Duty Christmas Dinner which is held about a week before Christmas each year. There are also some events that, while fun to participate in, still honor our military and first responders. These are golf tournaments, poker runs, and fishing tournaments. Since its beginning BOOM Adventures has expanded their services and events to honor our military: the fallen, veterans, and those on active duty; and our first responders. Perhaps that feeling of patriotism as a result of 9/11 needs to be rekindled in the hearts of every American. †
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52 amarillo living magazine photos provided by THE SCHOOLER FAMILY WHERE DO YOU LIVE? Amarillo, Texas EMI SCHOOLER, 16 PARENTS: BEKAHANDTOMSCHOOLER 4-HCLUB: POTTER COUNTY BLUE RIBBONCLUB 4-H Spotlight HOWLONGHAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED IN 4-H PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS ? 9 years WHAT 4-HACTIVITIES ARE YOU INVOLVED IN? I am involved in showing livestock, soil judging, food and nutrition, quiz bowl, public speaking, 4-H Congress, and leadership. ARE YOU ANOFFICER? IF SO, WHICH POSITION? Potter County Council - President, Social Media Coordinator Blue Ribbon Club - President
hometown living at its best 53 WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE AND LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT SHOWING? My favorite part about showing is making new friends, traveling to stockshows, and taking care of my animals. My least favorite part about showing livestock is the anticipation before going in the ring. HOWHAS BEING A PART OF 4-H PROGRAMS PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE? 4-H has taught me leadership skills, how to speak in front of people, responsibility, and many other qualities that will be beneficial to my future. WHY IS BEING IN 4-H IMPORTANT TO YOU? 4-H has given me many new opportunities that I wouldn’t get any other way. It has opened so many doors for me to explore and has opened my mind to how broad agriculture is, and how important it is to everyone around me. I have also met lots of new friends through being involved in 4-H that I will be able to connect with for the rest of my life. WHATWOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THINKING ABOUT JOINING 4-H? I would tell people all the things it has to offer. I have met so many friends, gone on lots of fun trips, and experienced once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. It is such a diverse organization that offers something for everyone. WHERE HAVE YOU COMPETED AND WHAT AWARDS HAVE YOUWON? I have competed at all the major livestock shows in Texas taking home many awards. I have also competed at the District and State levels in several 4-H competitions placing in each.
OTHER GROUPS/ORGANIZATIONS YOU’RE INVOLVED IN? I am involved in Emi’s Color Shoot, FFA, Snack Pak 4 Kids, Downtown Women’s Center, and I also serve as a Texas 4-H Livestock Ambassador. WHO IS YOURMENTOR? When I think of a mentor in my life, tons of people come to mind, but one person that particularly sticks out is Cari, my county extension agent. She has pushed me past my comfort zone and has gotten me involved in things that I didn’t even know existed. She helps me pursue all my crazy ideas for our county and is always thinking of ways to make things better within our county. WHAT DO YOUWANT TO DOWHEN YOU GROWUP, AND WHERE DO YOUWANT TO GO TO COLLEGE?WHATWILL YOU STUDY? One of my life goals is to attend Texas A&MUniversity. I hope to major in Animal Science and minor business and then continue on to medical school to become a Pediatrician. WORDS OFWISDOM: • Work hard for what you want • Be involved in things greater than yourself • Push yourself past your comfort zone
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56 amarillo living magazine WRITTEN BY ANDREA ELISE | PHOTOS BY HENRY BARGAS AND COURTESY OF VERLENE DICKSON NOT ONE LEFT BEHIND MOVING FORWARD WITH SSince 2014, the Veterans Resource Center (VRC) has assisted veterans, and surviving families deal with what is sometimes the fall-out of having chosen duty, honor and country over oneself. Verlene Dickson, VRC Director and Retired Sergeant Major, knows about that choice well. She was in the Army for 27 years, a born leader with the calm temperament required to manage 3,700 troops. Her patience, presence and courage made her the perfect person for that job. When Verlene returned to civilian life after her long Army service she learned— as so many other individuals do—that there is another battle to fight. Again, she found herself in the position to head battle efforts. This time, for an organization dedicated to helping veterans move forward. Trauma is different for all, but one consistent truth is clear: we must tell our story many times to unravel the skein of yarn in which our emotions are wrapped. The VRC provides counseling, online and in-person support, and partnering with local agencies to offer a host of other resources, including equine-assisted therapy, canine training, Veterans Treatment Court, and recovery from homelessness to help veterans and their families reintegrate into life. The Veterans Resource Center aides with an abundance of post-service needs. Meet some of those leading the efforts, and benefitting from them.
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58 amarillo living magazine Ryan, a dignified 42-year-old gentleman who served in the Navy from 2004–2008, is learning how much having someone to tell those stories makes all the difference. Ryan said he was deployed to the Persian Gulf for six and a half months. He struggled with depression and anxiety upon his return from deployment. In addition, he developed a serious back condition that requires ninedifferentmedications. Upon return to the states and onset of these issues, he found himself in legal troubles. At the time, law enforcement attempted to take himto a behavioral health facility, but he refused. He asked to go to the VA Hospital for assistance instead, but when the officer refused and incarceration seemed the only alternative, the VRC stepped in and offered Veterans Treatment Court. This allows the VRC to work with judges, the VA Hospital, the District Attorney’s office, and probation officers to help Ryan through these issues. Thanks to the services provided by Hope Lives Here, an organization with close ties to the VRC, Ryan obtained a therapy dog, Booker. Booker provides companionship and calmness lackingwhenRyan is in pain. Ryan said if he stayscleanforayear,heand Booker could “graduate”, and his permanent record would be expunged of all charges. Of all the services he received, Ryan said talking to counselors and other veterans works best. He said, “The more I talk to people, the less my mind wanders.” One peer-to-peer facilitator that’s become a bit of a north star to Ryan is Randy Willmon. Randy is the Veterans Navigator at VRC and on the board for
Hope Lives Here. He joined the Army in 1995 and left March of 2015, after 20 years of service. He held numerous positions in the US Cavalry including Senior Scout, Platoon Sergeant, Drill Sergeant, G3 Operations NCOIC and UN Adviser. He’s received major awards such as the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and many other achievement medals. Randy has also been inducted as a Distinguished Knight in the Order of Saint George. Ryan chooses to go to the VRC at least weekly because he enjoys visiting with Randy and others. He relies on the extra help provided by VRC. He said, “I know better than to let my mental state get that way.” He explained it means the world that he doesn’t have to fight inner battles alone. The life-changing help provided takes various forms. Another beneficiary of the servicesisKimberly,alovelysinglegrandmother. She served in the Army from 2005–2010, then was in the Reserves for over a year. She was stationed several places overseas but said her favorite was South Korea from 20072008 since her mother is Korean. Like Ryan, Kimberly struggled with homelessness and depression after her tour of duty ended. She needed housing assistance, and VRC was the only organization that she found to help. They paid for her deposit on an apartment, rent for six months, household goods, utilities, and food. She said, “I didn’t know what to do, but I got a lot of guidance from the staff here.” Now, it is the ongoing services like peer support that Kimberly finds most important. “They are not just in it to get the job done,” She said, “When you come here, you have friends for life.” She feels so at home at the VRC and called it a judgment-free zone and “an oasis.” She added, “They’ve seen it all.” With the career building assistance provided, Kimberly was able to find a great job with Panhandle Community Services and is now studying to become a social worker. She is also in the process of buying her first home—the one thing she most wanted to do in life. She said, “Pride can make you hungry…but life is so good today and I owe a huge portion of my success to the folks here.” hometown living at its best 59
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