Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 12th of February.
Good morning, Amarillo.
Tickets are on sale for the second annual Jackpot Jamboree benefiting Ascension Academy scheduled for Saturday, Feb.
21 at the Amarillo Civic Center Grand Plaza. The event offers casino games, live jazz with Erica Swindell & Esquire Jazz Band, signature cocktails, and auctions with all proceeds supporting the school.
On Feb. 9, a 60-acre grass fire near Amarillo Boulevard and North Hughes Street burned two structures, forced evacuations, and is under investigation as suspected arson; emergency crews responded with aerial support and multi-agency coordination.
Amarillo native author Amy Griffin shared her healing journey at Day of the Woman on Tuesday, Feb.
10 at the Civic Center when she was interviewed by Barbara Bush. The event, hosted by the Laura W. Bush Institute for Women’s Health at TTUHSC, drew over 800 and aided local nonprofits.
Amarillo's job market remains strong as unemployment dropped from 3.2% to 3.1% in November, while the labor force grew by 2,091 and jobs increased by 1,944 according to Texas Workforce Commission data.
The Texas Panhandle outpaced state averages, offering more opportunities for job seekers.
West Texas A&M University launched a half-off tuition program for Region 16 Education Service Center employees, spouses, dependents and full-time school staff (including cafeteria and custodial workers), announced Wednesday to ease college costs for the Panhandle community.
Texas officials oversee the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) voucher program, where over 81,000 applications have been submitted within a week.
Families may spend funds only on approved items via the Odyssey operated marketplace with vendors, tutors, and therapists receiving state sign-off, and first families will shop on July 1.
On Monday, the Canyon ISD Board of Trustees approved a policy that allows voluntary prayer and religious reading on all campuses to align with state law; officials noted a similar practice has been in place since last September and parental consent is required.
At the Amarillo Civic Center, Dr. Robert Mace explained that rainwater harvesting can help conserve groundwater as new data centers increase water demand.
Mayor Cole Stanley and state officials announced a new water and infrastructure grant that will fund drinking water systems starting fall 2026 (with additional funds planned into 2027).
On Tuesday, Congressman Ronny Jackson introduced the SAFE CATTLE Act to protect livestock from new world screwworm by establishing a memorandum between the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) and the Department of the Interior; several Texas cattle leaders welcomed the measure.
City officials released test results on avian flu in local birds, with 12 out of 18 showing non-negative results which are treated as positive.
They urge residents to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and to use protective gear when handling them.
Hud’s introduces a new family meal that feeds six with chicken tenders, Texas toast, fries, okra & gravy for $23.99; the deal will start Friday in Amarillo & offers a budget-friendly dining option amid rising grocery prices.
Today, catch replays of interviews with WT sports leaders, Amarillo ISD coaches and wrestling promoter Jordan Rojas on the Sports Drive—he previews this weekend's Love Lockdown Part 2 event at Cactus Cove Hotel, where participants 17 and under will enter for free.
Candlelight Concert: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons
6:30-7:45 p.m. — Amarillo Little Theatre — $27.60 — Experience a magical evening of music by Coldplay and Imagine Dragons under candlelight.
Monday Game Group at United Supermarket
7-11 p.m. — United Supermarkets — Free entry — Engage with local board gaming enthusiasts in a friendly atmosphere and learn new games together.
Makeup Blowout Sale in Amarillo
10 AM - 5 PM — Embassy Suites by Hilton Amarillo Downtown — Free entrance — Enjoy up to 75% off on makeup, skincare, and hair care during this annual sale event.
Beginner All Gel Class - Amarillo, Texas
10 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Holiday Inn Express & Suites Amarillo by IHG — Registration required — Dive into the exciting world of gel nails with hands-on instruction and techniques.
VOLUME 1 Launch Party
6-9 p.m. — Amarillo Club — Free entry — Celebrate the launch of The Scout Guide and enjoy local bites and DJ entertainment.
Conjunto Relincho & Los Villalobos Concert
9-11 p.m. — Hacienda Las Flores Event Center — Cost information not provided — Enjoy live performances by Conjunto Relincho and Los Villalobos in a vibrant atmosphere.
Almost St. Patrick's Day Pub Crawl
4:30-9 p.m. — O.H.M.S. Cafe & Bar — Tickets required — Celebrate an early St. Patrick's Day with games, contests, and plenty of green-themed fun in Amarillo.
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