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 TEXAS’ SLICE OF THE PROMISED LAND A labor of love from one couple who is working to preserve the history of Jericho, once considered a ghost town. 18 HOMETOWN BUNDLES Meet the newest residents of Amarillo. 22 A COLORFUL MISSION TO GIVE BACK A decade-long fundraiser, started by an 8-year-old, has raised nearly $2 million for the hospital that once helped her. 30 HOMETOWN HAPPENING West Texas A&M Teacher Pinning Ceremony 34 4-H PROJECT Growing interest in the Potter County 4-H food and nutrition project led to a successful win for many involved. 39 BRINGING WALLS TO LIFE Artists from all over the world come together to transform the walls and streets of Amarillo. 46 HOMETOWN HAPPENING Tri-State Fair 50 CLOSER TO CHRIST High Plains Retreat Center is helping individuals of all ages reset, find God and reinvigorate their faith. 57 SUNDAYS AT THE PARK A handicap accessible playground has become a popular place for families to enjoy time together. 60 4-H SPOTLIGHT Meet Hollis Jake Albracht, a dedicated 4-H member who has competed in all major Texas Livestock Shows and earned numerous awards along the way. 66 THE LEGACY OF LOCAL THEATRE Amarillo Little Theatre has been the cornerstone of arts in Amarillo for almost a century. On the Cover Contents 60 66 39
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. A Terri Huseman Amarillo is a place full of diversity and intrigue. It is the place I have been able to call home for 30 years. After a fantastic career as a teacher and principal working in North Amarillo for 28 years, I decided to retire from the school district. I took a deep breath, turned in my school keys and made a huge leap of faith. What was I being called to do next? Would I have the ability to continue to connect with people all across the area? I had always located my direction through my faith and through the people I met during my career. I had learned to really see what was in front of me, follow my passions, get involved, use my voice and support others. Two amazing opportunities quickly came my way. First, the opportunity to assist in the publication of Amarillo Living, and second, a position at my church to help my faith family in all things community life. It’s amazing how the two are so complementary to one another. I have the ability in both areas to continue to connect with great people who call the Panhandle home. In this issue, you will meet a variety of people and organizations who make Amarillo living better. I challenge you to see the diversity and opportunity we have in our own backyard and take your own leap of faith. Join a group, find an outlet, gather friends, locate a purpose, and get moving. Whether you are volunteering for a great non-profit, enjoying the arts, or finding a new outside activity, I encourage you to take a leap and see the great things that Amarillo has to offer. As 1 Corinthians 2:9 says, “Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, what God has ready for those who love Him.” It’s amazing what we have the ability to see and do when we look; it’s amazing the power in each and every one of us to create and make the Panhandle community a better place to call home. WRITERS Martha Mobley Becca Nelson Sankey Rebecca Sanchez Ellen Slater Cari Snider PHOTOGRAPHERS H Bargas Photography Adair Photography Ray Photography Melanie Britten Photography COVER PHOTO Provided by Blanca Schaffer Casey Perkins Executive Publisher Brooke Graham Marketing & Client Relations brooke@hometownmedia.group Susan Avery Lead Creative Design Terri Huseman Sales Account Executive terri@hometownmedia.group Camela Dietrich Accounts Recievable accounting@hometownmedia.group Hello Amarillo and Happy 2025!
Texas' Slice of the Promised Land WRITTEN BY BECCA NELSON SANKEY | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY BLANCA SCHAFFER 8 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group
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I Putting Jericho, Texas, back on the map has been a labor of love for Blair and Blanca Shaffer, who are working to salvage the ghost town and bring awareness to its long history. In the Bible, Jericho, the gateway to Canaan and the Promised Land, is known as the ancient city ensconced in walls and locked gates designed to deny the Israelites entry. God gave Joshua and his army specific instructions on how to overthrow Jericho, thus allowing the Israelites access, and on the seventh day of battle, per His promise, the walls collapsed. A couple of continents and more than 7,000 miles away from the Jericho in Palestine is another historic town of the same name, owned by husband-and-wife duo Blanca and Blair Schaffer. The ghost town was named Jericho before 1900, but who named it and why remains one of its many mysteries. It seems fitting, however, that one of the lessons that can be gleaned from the Battle of Jericho is to listen and follow Christ, even when the journey ahead seems impossible. 10 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group
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12 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group Having bought the half-mile, 80-acre ghost town during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Schaffers know a thing or two about following their hearts no matter the obstacles. Since 2020, their lives have revolved around thoroughly researching the history of Jericho, retelling it to others, and breathing life back into an area that, for hundreds of years, was a place where people lived, loved, lost and persevered before the town was almost entirely forgotten. Before it became Jericho, the land was first inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Comanche, Apache and Kiowa in the 1870s. Buffalo hunters then settled the area, Blanca said. “It was flat, so it was good for them to see who was coming,” she said. “They had a lot more (visible) access to their surroundings.” Situated about 18 miles from Clarendon, for many years the property was little more than a village with a stagecoach stop. In 1902, the Choctaw, Oklahoma and Texas Railroad Company set up a station, and a post office was built there the same year. In 1926, the National Highway System, including Route 66, was created and traversed through Jericho, and the tiny town grew in population and buildings. Three stores, a service station, a garage, and a tourist court sprung up. Blair Schaffer said Jericho was best known for Jericho Gap, a stretch of dirt road that became extremely muddy and impassable when it rained. Property owners refused to give up their rights to pave the area, Blair added, so Route 66 was moved, a process that took two years to complete. The Dust Bowl was the final nail in the town’s proverbial coffin, and its population dwindled from 100 in 1930 to half that in 1939. Then came the Schaffers, lifelong Amarillo residents. Blanca is a self-proclaimed history buff who worked for the travel and tourism industry, while Blair, a firefighter and county commissioner, had ancestral ties to the area: His great-grandfather moved to Jericho in the late 1800s, bringing his family, including 11 children, by wagon from Missouri. The family are buried in Jericho’s cemetery. “We would go to the cemetery to [their graves] and we also have a meetup every Memorial Day weekend to do cleanup at the cemetery, so we would pass Jericho all the time, and when we
13 hometown living at its best saw the for-sale sign, we're like, ‘Well, let's look into it,’” Blanca said. Today, Jericho is little more than a cemetery, foundations of original buildings and a few other abandoned ones, but the Schaffers are working to change that. They successfully had Jericho recognized with a Texas historical marker and have plans to build a small museum and salvage the buildings that remain. The Schaffers’ property is now called Jericho on 66. “I really believe if we hadn’t gotten the land, it would have become forgotten,” Blanca said. Added Blair, “We saw this as a gem and a big piece of history for the area that was almost forgotten. The stuff we’re digging up, each is a little puzzle piece. We’re doing what we can to make sure the buildings that are still standing are safe. We’re trying to find old pictures to see who lived where, what was where and tell the story.” To tell the story of Jericho, digging up its history is a literal and figurative part of their daily lives. The couple recently discovered a pit generator six feet underground that was one used as a fuel source for Jericho’s buildings. In May of 2024, they invited people with metal detectors to search for buried relics and found gems including coins and rifle shells from the 1800s, uranium glass and old signs. The Schaffers live in an RV in Jericho with their grandson and operate a 20,000-square-foot garden where tourists can pick flowers and vegetables. Eventually they’d like to add an RV park, and an Airbnb complete with a speakeasy that’s a replica of an original Jericho building. About 10 to 15 people, either passersby or Route 66 “roadies,” as the Schaffers called them, tour Jericho each week, they said. Tourists who would like to stay overnight can make arrangements through Route 66 apps and sleep in tents or RVs, Blanca said. “We get notifications that they're coming in, and we’ll have an area specifically for them that's nice and level and mowed. When they get here, we always try to greet them and talk to them, see if they need anything, just be welcoming.”
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15 hometown living at its best Then the history lesson begins. “They'll go walk around or we’ll show them around,” she said. “Sometimes we'll see just a car drive down the road and they kind of look lost and we’ll jump in our vehicle or the tractor to go over there and talk to them and show them the tourist courts and a little bit of history. People just love it when we do that.” Living a slower pace of life in a historical place “feels amazing,” Blair said. “It's basically me, my wife and our grandson doing the majority of the work, and sometimes we do get a little frustrated that it’s moving slowly, but there’s always something we’re doing, whether it’s mowing a new area to find a hidden foundation or doing research.” For Blanca, Jericho is her last stop. “Jericho is my forever,” she said. “I found my peace; I found my joy. I'm 52 years old, and I'll be buried at the Jericho cemetery, and that's how much I am into this. I love it, and I'm committed to it. This is where it ends for me.” †
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hometown living at its best
Join us in welcoming Amarillo's newest residents! Have your photographer share your sweet bundle with us for future issues, office@hometownmedia.group. BUNDLES OF HOMETOWN 2 3 4 5 1 18 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group
1. Audrey | Parents: Joey & Caitlin Taylor 2. Paxton | Parents: John & Samantha Cummings 3. Scottie | Parents: Eric & Janae Vaubel 4. Collins | Parents: Chris & Rylee Campbell 5. Miller | Parents: Tyler & Leeann Babcock 6. Holly | Parents: Blake & Kristen Pigg 7. Gatlin | Parents: Thomas & Skylar Landess 8. Ella | Parents: Bryan & Caitlin Hill 9. Paislee | Parents: Josh & Riley Blaise 10. Hattie | Parents: Travis & Jacy Hammer Photos by Melanie Britten Photography 6 9 10 7 8 19 hometown living at its best
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22 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group WRITTEN BY REBECCA SANCHEZ | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE SCHOOLER FAMILY EMI SCHOOLER WAS INSPIRED TO RAISE MONEY FOR THE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL THAT HELPED HER HEAL FROM A DEBILITATING DISEASE. TODAY HER DECADE-LONG FUNDRAISER IS NEARING THE $2 MILLION MARK. A Colorful TO GIVE BACK
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24 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group When little kids have an idea for change, adults may want to listen in. Emi Schooler was inspired after the Scottish Rite Hospital for Children transformed her life out of experiencing an unsettling illness to celebrating remission, and now her energy for giving back has generated nearly $2 million through her annual Emi’s Color Shoot fundraiser. Emi’s health concerns began with what initially seemed like common childhood and seasonal ailments. She was tested for flu, for strep, and was told she may be having growing pains. However, her pain lingered and became more serious. When she also developed a rash and was unable to walk or get up, her family’s pediatrician recommended she be examined by another doctor in Dallas straight away. Diagnosed with Juvenile Dermatomyositis, or JDM, an inflammatory disease associated with muscles, skin and blood vessels, Emi received treatment from Scottish Rite Hospital in Dallas. During a weeklong stay, she was tested, given an MRI, had surgery, and followed up with 90-minute intravenous treatments three days each week. Thankfully she responded quickly, adored her phlebotomist, and was made to feel welcome and connected by everyone who worked at the hospital. “I've always been a huge A&M fan,” Emi says, “I remember talking with the security guard one day about how my family liked it, and that's where he went to school. Then the next day I had a signed autograph from Johnny Manziel from the week before when the team had visited. He printed out a picture of it for me and brought it to my room. I just thought with all the doctors and the nurses and the staff, they truly care about their job and about helping kids that need help.” Expecting a fee for services, Emi’s parents were very surprised to learn that no bill would be sent to them. Emi too, was moved by the hospital practice of treating children regardless of a family’s ability to pay and was so motivated by her experiences there that she told her parents she wanted to raise money so others could continue to receive that kind of support. Attending clay shoots with her family had
always been a fun experience for her, and she knew such events could be used to raise money. Emi put two and two together, and at just 8-years-old, proposed a rainbow-themed clay shoot to reflect the crayon décor of Scottish Rite and a classic lemonade stand. She was determined, and a decade later both endeavors are still going strong. “We didn't think it was going to grow this big,” says Bekah Schooler, Emi’s mother, “so we didn't think anything of it. We decided it would be a little day of fun and maybe raise a little money. We didn't realize what it was going to turn into at that point. We still can't.” While not a clay shooter herself, Emi delivers dinner bags, collects buyer sheets and score cards, and takes photos with participating teams while making her way around the event space on a golf cart. She feels strongly about the powerful impact the hospital not only has on a patient but on their family as a whole. “I was there for a week,” she says. “The person down the hall from me could have been there for six weeks, but you're still going to see a smile on their face because of how they're being treated. I feel like that really resonated with me, and I felt because of
26 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group how I was raised and the morals and values that have been instilled in me, I just knew I had to. I knew there was something bigger that I could do.” After initial treatment, Emi returned to Scottish Rite Hospital at three-month intervals, proving her strength gains through physical tests. Previously unable to lean over and pick up a pin off the floor or hold her arms out straight for one minute, she began showing that she could. She adopted dietary changes and avoided the sun and viral infections. Her prescription list got shorter, and appointments were pushed out further and further. By sixth grade, she was in full remission and needed only yearly appointments, the last of which was on her 18th birthday. Though now a pre-med student at Texas A&M, Emi still has a voice contributing ideas, getting involved in merchandise design and helping her mother build auction baskets. “It is everything I hoped for and so much more,” Emi says. “I remember them telling me when we first started, ‘Don't get your hopes up too high. Have realistic thoughts.’ We had no idea we were going to raise $60,000 our very first year. That's almost unheard of for a first-time organization, especially one that was put together in a short amount of time.” Each year fundraising totals jumped higher, nearly doubled by the third year, and then doubled again by year six marking $250,000 raised. It was the same year that Emi’s Color Shoot introduced a $10,000 scholarship to students in the community who had also been treated at Scottish Rite. After the 10th anniversary shoot in 2024, Emi and her volunteer supporters are on track to match their 2023 total, and like every year before, 100% of proceeds go to Scottish Rite. Goals remain focused on growing the event, raising more money, and creating something people will talk about. Sharing the story is a key component because knowing the importance of Emi’s experience and others like hers draws people in to help. “I do it because I care,” says Emi, “and because I love the hospital so much. They pretty much gave me my entire childhood back, but I'm also seeing how well they've helped other kids too.” And thanks to all the adults who honored her fundraising idea, many people have been able to help the hospital continue its work." JDM affects three in one-million children each year. Emi’s health improved, and she was able to return to playing sports, showing livestock and rallying supporters for the color shoot. Through the keen work of her medical support, she’s in remission and on course to become a pediatrician herself one day. †
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HOMETOWN Happenings
31 hometown living at its best Photos by: Jordan Conde and Christian Guerrero Future teachers were celebrated in a West Texas A&M University ceremony that formally welcomed them to their new profession. Forty WT students who have been newly admitted into WT’s educator preparation program were celebrated at a new pinning ceremony in Legacy Hall in the Jack B. Kelley Student Center on the Canyon campus. Pinning ceremonies, such as those in the nursing profession, are a symbolic marking of the occasion when students are formally welcomed into their chosen profession, said Dr. Betty Coneway, head of WT’s Department of Education in the Terry B. Rogers College of Education and Social Sciences. The ceremony coincided with the October 5 celebration of World Teachers Day. “The hope is that this event will elevate the teaching profession and validate the students' decision to enter an increasingly demanding field,” said Coneway, who also serves as WT’s Geneva Schaeffer Professor of Education and Social Sciences. WT’s first education pinning ceremony was held in February. WT opened in 1910 as West Texas State Normal College, a school that trained teachers. Today, about 75 percent of all teachers and administrators throughout the Panhandle region have at least one degree or certificate from WT. Training educators is still a vital mission of the University, as laid out in its long-range plan, WT 125: From the Panhandle to the World. Teaching Profession 40 WEST TEXAS STUDENTS WELCOMED TO in October 8th Ceremony
FOOD CHALLENGE Written by Cari Snider | Photos provided by Potter County 4-H 4-H PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
35 hometown living at its best The sizzling sounds of culinary creativity filled the air in September as Potter County hosted its annual Food Challenge, showcasing the talents of 4-H members interested in the Food and Nutrition Project in 4-H. With a record-breaking 11 teams competing— up from last year’s 8— this event continues to gain momentum, highlighting the growing interest in cooking among youth in our community. The increase in participation is a testament to the enthusiasm for culinary arts among the youth in Potter County. This year, the Food Challenge welcomed 20 new members, reflecting an expanding interest that promises to continue growing in future competitions. Local organizers have noted the importance of this event in the 4-H program. This year, participants were tasked with crafting a delicious main dish featuring pork chops. The senior team is given one key ingredient and are challenged to be creative. Junior teams received vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, and lemons, while intermediate teams were also provided with apple sauce and breadcrumbs. All teams had access to a “pantry” with a selection of additional ingredients to elevate their dishes, encouraging innovation and creativity. The competition was fierce, and each team brought their own unique flair to the challenge, showcasing not only their culinary skills but also teamwork and strategic planning. After preparing their dishes, the teams are then tasked with showing their public speaking skills in front of two judges. They share their knowledge over key nutrients, healthy substitutions, how they prepared the dish, and safety they practiced. The top four teams in each division advanced to the district 1 contest that was held in October, where they competed against the other 21 counties in the panhandle. Nine teams from Potter County participated in the event, and their hard work paid off with several impressive finishes in both the Intermediate and Junior divisions. The 4-H Food Challenge not only allows participants to display their culinary talents but also emphasizes the importance of teamwork, food safety, and the nutritional value of meals. Potter County’s strong showing at the contest is a testament to the dedication and skill of its young chefs. The county looks forward to continuing this tradition of excellence in future competitions.
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Intermediate Division Highlights 3rd Place Main Dish: Skibbidy Slicers 3rd Place Side Dish: Hot Mess Express Junior Division Highlights 1st Place Side Dish: Kitchen Kaos 37 hometown living at its best
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39 hometown living at its best WRITTEN BY MARTHA MOBLEY | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY HOODOO ART FOUDATION Walls TO LIFE BRINGING
40 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group T THE HOODOO MURAL FESTIVAL BRINGS ARTISTS FROM ALL OVER THE NATION TOGETHER TO TRANSFORM THE WALLS AND STREETS OF AMARILLO. The annual Hoodoo Mural Festival is held each fall, but many people don’t realize that the process of artist selection, to assigning their wall, to the final result— starts many months in advance. Early in the year, members of the Hoodoo Art Foundation comb the festival area looking for sites for the murals to be painted: walls that are the appropriate size and in a good location. This past year, they had over 400 applications from hopeful artists who were both locally and nationally known. Once the artist selections are made, the matchmaking process can begin. The foundation consults with the business owner or property owner and asks permission to have an artist paint a mural on one of their walls. The owner can then choose the artist whose style they like. The murals are not meant to be used for advertising or commercial space, they are to be positive and inspiring, simply art for art’s sake. The event began in 2019 when Andrew Hall, one of the founders of the Hoodoo Art Foundation, had a desire to make Amarillo a travel destination rather than just a city to pass through. Art Foundation members felt that murals could be a
41 hometown living at its best catalyst in accomplishing this goal. That year, they decided to recruit artists to paint murals on the blank wall spaces in Amarillo and from there, the Hoodoo Mural Festival was born. The festival has become one that art appreciators attend year after year, and it has also become recognized by various organizations who support the arts. The funding for the mural painting comes from the Texas Commission of the Arts, the Grassroots Arts and Cultural Grant, and from donations of materials and equipment from local business owners. While the focus of the festival is the art and murals, there is something for everyone and fun for all who attend. There are stages for live music, vendors, food trucks, children’s activities and much more. People from young to old attend— families, friends, individuals and all who just enjoy the celebration of the arts. Inspiring communities to unite through public art, live music, and urban beautification. To see how the foundation has brought their mission to life, be sure to check out the murals from the Hoodoo Mural Festival located in the cultural arts district.
“WHAT IS YOUR IMPRESSION OF THE HOODOO MURAL FESTIVAL AND WHY DO YOU ATTEND?” Sydnee Hendrick, President of the WTAMU Art Club said that this festival gives local and nationally known artists an opportunity to showcase their talent. The murals are an inspiration to her. She is a graphic design major but sees painting murals as another means of expression. Andrew Mittar said he came last year and enjoyed it so much he felt that he wanted to return. Being an employee of Panhandle Plains Historical Museum, he is always interested in culture and art, especially that of the Texas panhandle. This is the fourth time Wes has attended the festival. He is a long-time resident of Amarillo. He remembers early efforts to revitalize downtown Amarillo in the 1990’s. Some new businesses had started up in some of the buildings on Polk Street, but there were some unoccupied buildings. To bring color to Polk Street the organization, Center City, enlisted local artists to paint murals on the unoccupied buildings. Wes said, “I guess it just wasn’t the right time for the mural painting to take off.” He is acquainted with some of the musicians and loves the music and the murals. The mission statement of the Hoodoo Art Foundation is: INSPIRING COMMUNITIES TO UNITE THROUGH PUBLIC ART, LIVE MUSIC, AND URBAN BEAUTIFICATION. 42 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group
Keelan has attended the festival twice and spoke with one of the artists, Drew Merritt, while Drew was working on his mural. Drew stopped painting for a while to visit with Keelan. Keelan said he enjoyed talking with the artist who now lives in Clovis, New Mexico. Drew has painted murals for the festival for several years. Johnny and Janie, who are both musicians, were there with their young son. They pushed his stroller around, enjoying the overall atmosphere of the event. This is their third time attending, and their son’s first. They thought this was a great family outing. Last of all, I met four ladies who were having a “Girl’s Night Out.” These ladies, Tonja, Toby, Teri, and Tina have been friends since childhood and grew up in Amarillo. Three have moved to other towns in Texas, but they have an annual get together every year. They attended the festival last year and put it on their list of events to attend this year. † 43 hometown living at its best
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45 hometown living at its best DISCOVER TEXAS’ LARGEST history MUSEUM panhandleplains.org 26,000 SQUARE MILES 500 MILLION YEARS +
HOMETOWN Happenings Photos by Henry Bargas Photography The smell of deep-fried foods, the cheers of the crowd as the parade winds down Polk Street, the sound of bells ringing from fair games won and the thrill of the 8 second count for your favorite bull rider— for most of us, growing up in the panhandle meant eagerly anticipating the annual Tri-State Fair and Rodeo every September. This past September—101 years after its inception, thousands of locals and out of towners descended upon Amarillo for the fair, rodeo and parade. As always, it was a resounding success, and the event was filled with plenty of laughter, enjoyment and memories that will last a lifetime. TRI-STATE FAIR Rodeo & Parade
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WRITTEN BY BECCA NELSON SANKEY | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY HIGH PLAINS RETREAT CENTER High Plains Retreat Center is an isolated gem where churches, families, youth groups and individuals of all ages can RESET, FIND GOD OR REINVIGORATE THEIR FAITH. CLOSER to Christ
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52 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group VVisiting High Plains Retreat Center, a sprawling property teeming with wildlife, dotted with cozy cabins, and with few distractions aside from the blissful sounds of nature, one would never know that Canyon’s slice of Heaven on Earth is just 20 miles from town. It is a place free from outside distractions and the hustle and bustle of the proverbial rat race, where churches, youth groups, businesses and families alike can get away to strengthen their faith. Indeed, the retreat center embodies Psalm’s 46:10: “BE STILL AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD.” The retreat center, said Austin Hicks, High Plains Retreat Center’s Executive Director, “provides a way that you can get away from all the technology, the distractions of everyday life, to really have God pour into you and build your relationship with Him.” The property was built in the 1950s and all but wiped out in a 1995 tornado. The irony of the original historic concrete slabs where buildings once existed are like the foundation of faith, an irony not lost on Hicks, who moved there in January 2024 with his wife and three young children. “We brought our family out here, and within the first couple of months I got to watch my son give his life to Christ,” said Hicks, who is a pastor and nurse. “It's just an awesome place to be, out here in the middle of nowhere and to wake up and see God's creation.”
53 hometown living at its best In 2009, the Amarillo Area Baptist Association made the retreat a nonprofit and established a Board of Directors. “They saw this as a place of retreat, of building a place where people could get away from the city and to just be at a place where God could work in the lives of children and adults alike. That's what we have continued to build on throughout the years.” Literal work on the property is ongoing and expensive, said Brent Clark, who attended camps at the retreat as a child and is now president of its Board of Directors. “There just aren’t enough funds to take care of everything that really needs to be done down here, but God is very faithful, and when we need work done or something comes up, He will take care of those things,” Clark said. Clark recalled when the center’s $600,000 pool needed extensive repairs and, despite not knowing how to pay for it, the Board voted in favor of the overhauls. “We started going out to find grants and things,” he said. “I laugh because I think God just kind of smiled and said, ‘If y'all just get out of the way and let me do this, I'll show you,’ and the money just came in. We can't take credit for that.” In addition to the swimming pool, the retreat has eight cabins of all sizes for various occasions, a conference center, opportunities for hiking, a ropes course, a firearm range, repelling wall, ropes courses, an outdoor sports court for volleyball and basketball, and an archery range. Anyone can stay at the retreat year-round, but camps for youth and churches of all denominations – particularly during
54 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group the summer - are most common. “Last year we saw about 125 groups throughout the whole year, and that equates to about 6,500 people,” Hicks said. “May through July 2024, we saw about 4,500 people and about 90 groups,” which is an all-time high in visitors. Once people visit the retreat center, they get a front-row view of God’s work, Clark said. “They see that God's doing something, and they want to join in and help,” he said. “We always thought we needed a benefactor that would bring in a lot of money so we could get a lot of [work done at the retreat center], and instead this last year, God brought us a whole church that decided to use this as their ministry because of all the kids that come through this camp,” he said. “This is their mission ministry for the year. Their church members are working almost daily here doing things we could never get done.” Perhaps the reason God provides when the work seems impossible is because it makes the work He does in the lives of the campers possible; both are miracles. “We are always constantly seeking what Jesus wants us to do, how He wants to run this, because it's His camp. That’s how we look at it, and that's how we try to run it,” Clark said. Added Hicks: “This past summer we were able to see God work and save over 25 people. We also were able to watch those new believers as they were baptized as a profession of faith in our swimming pool. It was such an amazing opportunity to see God change lives, that's what God does at camp.”
55 hometown living at its best For Clark, who has seen the camp’s evolution and growth the past five decades, High Plains Retreat Center is a gem that everyone should be aware of so that more people can – at least for a brief while – return to a place of simplicity so that they can better hear and feel Christ’s presence. He recalled last summer, when a girls youth group attended camp at the retreat center and, after scarfing down a meal, hopped on their bikes and took off riding throughout the camp. “They don't have to worry about anything; kids don't get to do that anymore,” Clark said. “They can come here and it's just a whole different experience. I think that's what makes it different and special. It just warms your heart when you see kids getting to do the things that I did when I was a kid. It really is a retreat from all the madness. You can just concentrate on the important things in life and see how God works in your heart and through other people.” † How to Contribute: • Pray for the retreat center • Donations can be made online • Volunteers are always appreciated To book at High Plains Retreat: Visit their website at https://www.hpretreatcenter.org/ and send an email or call 806-499-3429.
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57 hometown living at its best IIn 2016, the Amarillo chapter of AMBUCs saw the need for a handicap-accessible playground to provide exciting playground experiences for children with handicaps. This playground was built with financial assistance from several local businesses and is located in Medi-Park, on Streit Street, between the Discovery Center and the Botanical Gardens. This playground has become far more than a handicapaccessible playground. It has become a place where families can gather and have fun. Year round, families with children of all ages, babies through to young teens, enjoy this facility. The park boasts an array of handicap-accessible equipment, such as specially designed swings that accommodate children with disabilities, a merrygo-round at ground level that makes it easy for passengers to board easily as it goes around, a soft, rubbery ground surface to protect falls, a pirate ship that rocks back and forth and a zipline. The park also boasts a splash pad nearby where children of all ages and abilities can keep cool on a hot summer day while two covered picnic areas allow families and friends to gather and socialize while the children play. A HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE PLAYGROUND HAS BECOME A POPULAR PLACE FOR FAMILIES TO ENJOY TIMES TOGETHER. SUNDAYS at the Park WRITTEN BY MARTHA MOBLEY | PHOTOS BY HENRY BARGAS
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59 hometown living at its best Curtis Chamberlain’s family, most of them visiting from out of state, gathered at the park on this particular day to take advantage of the nice weather, the playground equipment and to spend some valuable time together as a family. Curtis and his siblings reminisced about the Medi-Park at which they had played years earlier that looked a lot different than it does today. His sister Rachel, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma also commented that this new playground seemed like a scaled-down version of The Gathering Place, a major handicap-accessible park in Tulsa. Grandpa, Emery Chamberlain said, “This is a great spot for the little ones.” All the children agreed that this park is a great place for a family to hang out. Another family was at the park enjoying a birthday celebration. Nicholas Castillo and his extended family, including some from as far away as Sacramento, California celebrated the eighth birthday of his daughter, Sarah. The family had decorated the picnic area for the occasion. Nearby, some family members had set up a croquet game and were having a great time. When it was time to eat, they all enjoyed pizza and birthday cake. Nicholas said, “This is one of our family’s favorite parks, without a doubt.” It seems that many people agree, this handicapaccessible playground and the nearby features have attracted many more people than the AMBUCs could have ever imagined. †
HOLLIS JAKE ALBRACHT photos provided by the Albracht Family 4-H SPOTLIGHT NAME, AGE: Hollis Jake Albracht, 17 PARENTS: Sammy & Tara Albracht 4-H CLUB: Blue Ribbon WHERE DO YOU LIVE: Bushland, TX
61 hometown living at its best HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN INVOLVED IN 4-H PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS? My whole life WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE AND LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT SHOWING? I would say that my favorite part about showing is probably the things I’ve learned and the people I’ve met along the way. My least favorite part about showing is probably at the end of the show, when I have to take all of my hard work from that year and load it onto the truck. WHERE HAVE YOU COMPETED AND WHAT AWARDS HAVE YOU WON? I have competed at all of the Texas Major Livestock Shows with sheep and pigs (State Fair of Texas, San Angelo, San Antonio, Houston and Austin), as well as many jackpot shows along the way. At these I have achieved many awards, but the greatest is probably when I won Breed Champion Duroc at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Through livestock judging I have participated at Clarendon, South Plains Invitational, WT Invitational, and 4-H district. In the past year at the district competition, I placed top ten in every species, and top five in reasons. HOW HAS BEING A PART OF 4-H PROGRAMS PREPARED YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE/GOALS? Being a part of 4-H has prepared me for my future goals in many ways, but the main one is probably all of the life lessons I have been taught such as hard work, responsibility, and the drive to never give up no matter how hard it gets. WHY IS BEING IN 4-H IMPORTANT TO YOU? Being in 4-H is important to me because of the things it has taught me, the people I have met, and the many experiences it has allowed me to have. I have met many lifelong friends who share the same interests as me. Also, I have had many networking opportunities that I hope will benefit me in my future.
62 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THINKING ABOUT JOINING 4-H TO PERSUADE THEM TO JOIN? I would say that if you ever have a chance to join 4-H, you should do so. The hard work you will learn, the people you will meet, and the friends you will make are too good to pass up. Being a part of 4-H is one of the greatest parts of my life, and I’m so glad I’m able to be a part of it. OTHER GROUPS/ORGANIZATIONS YOU’RE INVOLVED IN? Texas High School Rodeo Association (calf roping & team roping), Tri-State Junior Fair Board, Wildorado Athletics (Football & Track), National Honor Society, LEAD Council, Student Council, Wildorado FFA and Wildorado Cattle Company. WHO IS YOUR MENTOR? As the youngest of four boys, my older brothers have been my mentors. Sometimes it was showing me what to do in the show barn, or rodeo arena, or giving me advice about life lessons. At other times, they were setting themselves as examples of what not to do. Throughout my life they have taught me a lot, and have been my greatest mentors.
63 hometown living at its best COMMENTS/WORDS OF WISDOM OR ADVICE: Some words of advice that I have for the younger 4-H’ers are get your record book done early to make it easier the next few years, be involved as much as you can, and have fun, because you won’t be able to do it all forever. TELL US A FUNNY STORY ABOUT SOMETHING THAT HAPPENED WHILE CARING FOR YOUR ANIMAL OR DURING A COMPETITION. During the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, we were at layover in Kerrville. I had just got done washing my pig and went to take him back, but as soon as I opened the gate, he busted out running, hit the slick concrete, slid into the pens knocking them five feet back, and started spazzing out. We ended up having to show the next wave, because he couldn’t walk for the two days after. While this wasn’t funny when it happened, looking back at it makes me laugh. WHAT DO YOU WANT TO DO WHEN YOU GROW UP? OR WHERE DO YOU WANT TO GO TO COLLEGE AND WHAT WILL YOU STUDY? I plan to attend Texas Tech University, and obtain my degree in mechanical engineering. I do not have a particular job that I want to pursue, but it will be something in the mechanical engineering field. WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES/INTERESTS? Rodeo, football, fishing, hanging out with friends, livestock showing and judging, and welding.
64 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group Turning Acres Into Opportunities Your Local Ag Lender Beginning Farmer & Rancher Loans • Farm & Ranch Loans Recreational Land Loans • Rural Property Loans Pampa | Perryton | Plainview | Amarillo • www.PlainsLandBank.com www.adairphotography.net 806.359.4504 7649 Canyon Drive, Amarillo, TX 79110 info@adairphotography.net Portrait Photography Studio Amarillo
65 hometown living at its best RESERVE YOUR GRADUATE ANNOUNCEMENT SPACE TODAY! LIMITED SPACING AVAILABLE FOR THE HOMETOWN GRADUATES SPECIAL SECTION FEATURING YOUR HIGH SCHOOL OR COLLEGE ANNOUNCEMENT IN AMARILLO LIVING MAGAZINE IS A KEEPSAKE TO BE ENJOYED BY FRIENDS AND FAMILY NOW AND IN YEARS TO COME. CALL OR EMAIL FOR MORE INFORMATION TO GUARANTEE YOUR SPACE! 817.599.6167 or office@hometownmedia.group
66 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group WRITTEN BY ELLEN SLATER | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY AMARILLO LITTLE THEATRE LEGACY The of Local Theatre AMARILLO LITTLE THEATRE HAS BEEN A CORNERSTONE OF THE ARTS IN AMARILLO FOR MORE THAN 97 YEARS.
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68 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group WWhile many locals are familiar with The Amarillo Little Theatre (ALT) or have been lucky enough to see a production in person, there are not many who know that it is the oldest continuously running theatre in the entire country. ALT was founded in 1927 and has a huge and active theatre program that serves both children and adults. "In 1927, Amarillo city leaders decided the arts were important to the community of Amarillo," said ALT Managing and Artistic Director, Jason Crespin. "Oma Link Rowley was ALT's first Artistic Director and the theatre opened with a production of "Three Live Ghosts" in December of 1927." Since that time ALT has expanded from a small community venue to include two theatres as well as a thriving Academy Program which offers training in theatre, dance and voice. Crespin joined ALT's Academy Program in 1999, when he was in High School. He graduated from the Academy in 2001 and from West Texas A&M University in 2006. The following year, he was hired by ALT as Academy Director where he guided and educated students for 15 years. This is Crespin's fourth season as ALT's Managing and Artistic Director. The Academy program has been training students in the arts for countless years. "The Academy's motto is – ‘Training tomorrow's talent today’," said Crespin. The Academy enrolls 600 students each semester, ages three years to adults. Classes are taught at the Adventure Space under the guidance of Academy Director, Harrison Stinger. "We have several ALT graduates who are now working for the theatre, as well as in the movie and TV industries, and in Broadway shows," said Crespin. In addition to after school and Saturday classes, the Academy also offers summer camps and summer classes. Students attending the Academy can take classes in voice, theatre and dance including tap, ballet, lyrical jazz, hip hop, musical theatre and ballroom. "The Academy also offers instruction in improvisational theatre, playwriting and sound
69 hometown living at its best technician." said Crespin. "Any musical that has children in it will feature cast members from our Academy." Another integral part of ALT is its staff and volunteers. In addition to the theatre's nine fulltime staff members, over 300 volunteers annually participate in productions. Volunteers perform, create sets and costumes, work as stage crews, and as ushers, hosts and sound technicians. "We couldn't have ALT without our volunteers,” said Crespin. "They play a huge role in each and every production." Crespin says one of his favorite aspects of working for ALT is the fact that the theatre's main function is to entertain the audience. "It allows people from all different walks of life to experience the same thing at the same moment," he said. "We have people who drive in from all over Texas and Oklahoma to attend our productions. We provide the same quality of entertainment as the big cities at a fraction of the cost."
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71 hometown living at its best Another aspect of ALT that Crespin is particularly proud of is its Community Outreach. "We have a phenomenal scholarship program for any student wishing to attend our Academy," he said. "Every person who has applied for a scholarship has received it." ALT is also currently partnering with the Amarillo and Canyon Public Libraries in a program called "Check Out ALT." "People can go to the library and check out free tickets to any of our productions," Crespin said. "We also offer two for one student tickets and senior discounts." "Our motto is ALT is the place to be," said Crespin. "We really try to embody our mission statement which says: ALT enriches our community by fostering an inclusive environment of education, encouragement and entertainment through the creative expression of the arts." † For more information on the Amarillo Little Theatre or to volunteer please contact (806)355-9991.
72 amarillo living magazine | hometownmedia.group 806.354.9693 | customgardensamarillo.com
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