Good morning, Amarillo.

While many leave for jobs or school, residents return because they miss Amarillo's caring neighbors, short commutes, and local flavors—showing that a strong community and genuine kindness make this city feel like home.

Over the past year, Amarillo saw new local eateries, shops, and businesses open while some familiar spots closed + updated roads and new construction reshaped neighborhoods, yet the supportive community remained steady.

Hud's is set to open a larger new location on the east side with two drive-up windows and a big patio for families and Caprock High students.

The restaurant plans to begin hiring locally and aims to open by the 2026-27 school year.

Locke Supply Co. will relocate to the former Market 33 building at South Tree Shopping Center.

Renovations start in January with plans to open in the first quarter of 2026 — the new facility will offer more space for supplies and improved service.

The Amarillo Brick Convention returns to the Civic Center on Saturday and Sunday, Jan.

10-11, offering giant LEGO displays, minifigs, retired sets, and botanical exhibits for fans of all ages. Organizers add that part of the proceeds will support Creations for Charity to benefit underprivileged children.

The Randall County Junior Livestock Show is active in Amarillo & Canyon with over 200 youth exhibitors showing nearly 500 animals; the event runs through Jan.

8 with a Premium Sale planned on Jan. 10 to support the young participants.

The downtown Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone board approved up to $900,000 in tax abatements to help transform the Herring Hotel from a 1920s oil boom relic into an upscale boutique with 200 rooms + modern amenities, requiring a $90 million developer investment over a 10-year deal.

Amarillo City Hall will host the first job fair of 2026 on Saturday, Jan.

10 at 623 S Johnson St. and offers free access to full- and part-time positions for job seekers ready to start a new career.

Amarillo Public Health invites residents (aged 12 and up) to join its free RESET Health and Wellness Program for practical health tips and a six-week Warford Activity Center membership.

The program runs in two sessions: Winter (Jan. 13 to Feb. 19) and Spring (March 17 to April 23) with classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Amarillo area medical centers are seeing a rise in flu cases as winter's dry air makes it harder for residents to fight off viruses, said Dr. Sean Anderson from Northwest Physicians Group.

He advises getting vaccinated, washing hands, eating healthy, and avoiding those who are sick.

Former Fritch Police Chief Houston Gass, who was shot in the face 10 years ago, will see a neurologist after two mini-strokes.

He was discharged from a Fort Worth hospital on Sunday and is walking and talking normally (MRI cannot be done because of remaining shotgun pellets).

20th Anniversary Celebration of the GNC

7:30 p.m. — Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate two decades of culture with a thrilling symphonic performance featuring Rodrigo and Bruckner.

Fellowship of the Ring Film Screening

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Cinemark Amarillo Hollywood 16 and XD — Ticket prices vary — Gather with fellow fans for a pre-screening meetup and coffee before enjoying Fellowship of the Ring.

Frozen Feet Challenge 2026

8:30 AM – 2:30 PM — Get Fit — Registration required — Embrace the winter chill with an outdoor fitness challenge designed for spirited participants.