Good morning, Amarillo.

Atmos Energy donated $750,000 to local food banks such as High Plains Food Bank, Amarillo College Foundation, and Snack Pak 4 Kids during Hunger Action Month—this donation will help people secure nutritious meals.

Sgt. Ray Johnson, a Korean War veteran missing in action since 1950, had his remains arrive in Amarillo Friday morning—his family held a memorial service and burial with full military honors on Monday.

The service provided long-awaited closure for relatives who had finally learned what happened during his deployment.

On Sept. 13, many local residents attended a supper at First United Methodist Church that raised funds for a nonprofit effort to save Pleasant Valley Elementary.

Organizers announced that AISD board members will hold a town hall meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 9 to answer community questions and a Clean Up Day will take place on Sept. 20 at Pleasant Valley Park—steps aimed at restoring the historic school and energizing the neighborhood.

Today marks 101 years of service for United Way of Amarillo & Canyon as the campaign kickoff takes place at Will Rogers Range Riders Arena, where local leaders and speakers honor the organization’s work in health, education and financial stability.

The event brought together volunteers, CEOs and community members to support its ongoing mission.

Lonestar Electric Supply will build a 50,000 sq. ft. warehouse at 8586 Canyon Drive — a $7,500,000 project expected to be completed by summer as growth continues along I-27 between Amarillo and Canyon.

Amarillo's new Bleacher Boutique opened on August 1 to offer custom sports gear for high schools, junior highs, and local teams.

The shop began in Pampa six years ago and now provides subscription boxes (Bleacher Box) along with tailor-made designs for schools and businesses.

Earlier today, federal agents arrested David Alcocer-Escamilla, the leader of NOW Ministries in Amarillo that runs a drug addiction treatment program, for illegal reentry into the United States, and he had been deported before - he may face deportation again.

The Amarillo Discovery Center will host the grand opening of Leonardo’s Lab on September 20—featuring food trucks, art activities, and giveaways as the center remains closed from September 15 to 19 for setup.

The exhibit will run until January 9 and will include tickets to the Hoodoo Mural Festival.

The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in Amarillo is hosting events during Hispanic Heritage Month to connect local businesses with the Hispanic community—these events include a monthly Hora Social, a special luncheon, and a Heritage Junction honoring community leaders.

Members of the National Cotton Council of America visited Amarillo Tuesday morning to answer High Plains cotton producers’ questions about base acre policies and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act during a challenging market period—further stops are set in Plainview and Lubbock on Sept 18 as part of the 2025 Farm Bill rollout.

West Texas A&M University expanded its Educators Excellence Initiative to let teachers and support staff in Regions 17, 18, 1A and 2A enroll for spring semester and pay half off tuition.

President Dr. Walter Wendler said nearly 300 teachers from Region 16 have shown interest and that the program allows participants to choose any degree option + boost their qualifications.

Texas voters will decide on 17 proposed constitutional amendments on November 4 that include measures on education funding, tax exemptions, and bail reforms — the last day to register is Oct.

6.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has announced changes for the 2025-26 hunting season — including fully digital license options, simplified nonresident licenses, and new regulations for wild turkey zones and daily bag limits.

Hunters should note adjustments in the mule deer, quail, and teal seasons as county-specific rules now apply.

Today, the City of Amarillo approved the 2025/26 budget that raises funds by nearly 12% and increases the tax rate by over 15%, which will add about $12 to the property tax on a $100,000 home—moves aimed at supporting maintenance and public services.

City council members said they worked on the budget for months to address rising costs and meet community needs.

Linux Fundamentals GL120 Training Class

Sep 22-26 — Amarillo College — Cost varies — Dive deep into Linux concepts and gain essential IT skills in a hands-on environment.

Last Party on the Patio with Velvet Funk

7-9 p.m. — Six Car Pub & Brewery — Free entry — Celebrate the end of patio season with Velvet Funk at this lively pub gathering.

Zach Williams with We The Kingdom Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Amarillo Civic Center Complex — Ticket info available — Experience an uplifting evening of music with Zach Williams and We The Kingdom.

OpenShift Fundamentals Training

Mon, Oct 6 – Wed, Oct 8 — Amarillo College — Cost information not provided — Enhance your software development skills with this Linux-focused training class.

Amarillo International Film Festival

6-9 p.m. — Arts in the Sunset — Check website for ticket info — Celebrate global cinema with independent films, director panels, and industry insights.

Cottonwood Faire

10 AM – 6 PM — Thompson Memorial Park — Enjoy a variety of entertainment and food — Experience medieval combat, interact with characters, and relish festival fare at Amarillo's Renaissance faire.