Happy State Bank 30 Years of Keeping Canyon Happy

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HAPPY STATE BANK 30 YEARS OF KEEPING CANYON HAPPY

CanyonNews.com 1 SEE INSIDE: ECONOMIC INDUSTRY BOOMING IN CANYON • 38 | WT AG DEPARTMENT GROWING • 45

15 Harold Root loves talking about Canyon’s history CONTRIBUTORS Advertising Operations Brinna Evans, Craig Phillips 16 Q&A’s with local leaders General Manager Robert Grandfelt, Robert. Accounting Manager Shenee Clary 34 Cover story: Happy [email protected] State Bank Circulation Manager Managing Editor Sharon Heckler Tim Ritter, 38 Canyon’s growth expanding [email protected] Information Technology Director with new businesses Brett Hrebicek Regional Advertising Director Carmen Ortega, 41 United Supermarkets [email protected] Editorial/Advertising Offices takes pride in strong The Canyon News Account Representatives customer service 1500 5th Ave. Courtney Offield, Courtney. Canyon, TX 79015 [email protected] and Holly 806-655-7121 44 Canyon Farmers’ Market Clark, [email protected] www.canyonnews.com Office Manager 45 Agriculture industry huge in Shannon Cook, To advertise in The Canyon News’ Randall County [email protected] print and digital products, contact the office at 655-7121. Reporters To submit a story idea or 51 Canyon offers various Nola Hopkins and Tim Ritter inquire about freelance healthcare options writing and photography Photographers opportunities, contact The Shannon Richardson and Canyon News Managing 55 Midway Alternative High Tim Ritter Editor Tim Ritter at 655-7121 or School offers students [email protected]. Special Publications Editor career-minded opportunities Kevin Scannell, Discover Canyon is a publication [email protected] of the MRT Media Group. All 56 Historic buildings define Publication Designer rights reserved. No part of this Canyon’s square Darren Hendricks publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written 61 Canyon 101 Ad Operations Supervisor consent. Letters to the Editor are Fabian Molinar welcome but may be edited due to space limitations. 70 Business Honor Roll

8 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 WHAT MAKES LIVING IN CANYON SPECIAL?

or many years, I’ve often Commissioner or a Canyon ISD Board been asked the simple of Education member. question, “What makes And, the list goes on and on how living in Canyon special?” the people of Canyon make this small Simply put … it’s town special. the people. Though, I didn’t grow up here, FCanyon people care about Canyon holds a special place in one another. my heart. Canyon people take pride in this It’s a place I like to call my small-town jewel we like to call home. hometown, even though I was born in Canyon people are dedicated Amarillo and raised in the East Texas and determined. town of Longview. Canyon people lead by example A lot of my favorite childhood and go out of their way to help others memories have been spent in Canyon. in need. From playing Yahtzee with my Canyon people are trustworthy, late grandmother, Loue Ritter, to honest and hard workers. riding in Little Orange with my late I Heart Canyon, the Canyon ISD And, most of all, Canyon people grandfather, George Ritter, while Education Foundation, Snack Pak 4 are leaders. holding on to the door as we turned Kids or any of the civic organizations, Over the years, I’ve had numerous the corners at nearly 35 miles per working alongside the people opportunities to live in bigger cities hour doing his Kiwanis Club flag of Canyon can help shape your in Arkansas and Oklahoma, but for route, my memories of Canyon life forever. the most part, there’s not a better life are priceless. As I continue to work towards than in a small town. Gramps, in my mind, was one of the serving and giving back to Canyon, I It’s those strong relationships with best in Canyon at getting things done. hope to go at it with this simple motto your neighbors and friends that If Gramps had a vision, and a lot of … Together Everyone Achieves More. impact your life for years to come. times he did, his impact on Canyon I’ve definitely been successful in my It’s going to the grocery store or any spoke volumes. career with the help of many others. of the locally-owned businesses and Gramps’ involvement with Though my personal success has people knowing your name. the Kiwanis Club paved the way taught me a great deal of humility, it’s It’s going to church on Sunday, for me wanting to serve the not about what I’ve done. greeting people with a firm handshake Canyon community. It’s more about what can I do to or fist bump and flashing that million- He showed me what hard work impact others and make a difference. dollar smile. and dedication to Canyon meant And, that’s the vision and mindset It’s getting involved in the Lions through becoming a member of the that people have right here in Canyon. Club, Rotary Club, the Palo Duro Kiwanis Club and now, a Canyon Lions So, when you see or hear of Kiwanis Club or United Way and Club member. someone in need of help or just giving back to your community. It’s through serving in leadership needing a friend, remember that your It’s being a community leader or an roles as the Past President of service could touch a life and leave a educator in the Canyon Independent the Kiwanis Club and being the lasting impression. School District or at West Texas A&M Kiwanian of the Year many years Let’s take on this motto … “WE University and making a difference ago that I developed an even deeper CARE IN CANYON!” … that’s who we on a daily basis. appreciation for this small town jewel. are and who we want to be. It’s being involved in city The opportunities to serve in government as a city commissioner, Canyon are endless. Whether it’s TIM RITTER the Mayor, Randall County getting involved with Canyon Cares, CANYON NEWS MANAGING EDITOR

CanyonNews.com 9 WELCOME FROM CANYON MAYOR GARY HINDERS

hese are exciting times for Canyon, growing Ag school and new veterinary school Texas. buildings. Their research leads the way with We have four new developments the tallest wind turbine in North America, providing a variety of home choices for innovative research to promote agriculture with those looking to join our community. I a focus on saving precious water resources, and am proud to be able to say that an engineering department that has developed a TCanyon is one of the safest cities in Texas. Our surface to resist viruses. police force is outstanding and we live in a Canyon is a fun place to visit too. Come check out community where neighbors look after neighbors. the largest history museum in the state of Texas There is a West Texas small town friendliness here and our beloved Palo Duro Canyon, the second that sets us apart. largest Canyon in the U.S. Our restaurants have It is the tough times and challenges in life great venues for indoor and outdoor dining. The where true character really shows. Canyon has historic courthouse square is a place to spend some shone brightly during the COVID-19 crisis. I recreational time shopping. Visit our great shops Heart Canyon is a group of Canyon churches that and don’t miss the newly opened Palo Duro Canyon have come together to help thousands of school Outfitters before you head to the canyon for a world children be prepared to start back to school each class hike. After a visit here, you will want to come year. During this pandemic I Heart Canyon with back! You are always welcome. the Lions Club and other sponsors stepped up with $25,000 to help over 80 of our neighbors in the MAYOR – GARY HINDERS food service and hair stylist industries as those businesses temporarily closed. Canyon’s Economic Development Corporation also took the initiative to spend $200,000 to assist 40 businesses in town through these times. Canyon is made up of people who truly care about one another. Great things are happening in Canyon with the opening of WTAMU’s new football stadium last fall. Canyon Independent School District’s Happy State Bank Stadium will be the best high school facility in the area with renovations to be completed this fall. These renovations include new dressing rooms, new concessions and a new banquet hall with a panoramic view of the field. WTAMU continues to expand with a rapidly

10 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 WELCOME FROM CANYON ISD SUPERINTENDENT DR. DARRYL FLUSCHE

elcome to Canyon, Texas! The people in Canyon are about building community. Here, you will find an inherent value of being a good neighbor. When I visit with school leaders from other parts of Texas orW from other states, they tell a story of when they visited the Panhandle of Texas. Their story boasts these sentiments “...one thing the Panhandle has going for it - more than anywhere else is, its people.” Our culture holds a strong sense of pride in the hearts of a hard-working people who pitch in for a neighbor in need. Growth and progress abound in the Canyon ISD community. Each year Canyon ISD sets a new record for enrollment due to the many subdivisions that are slated to break ground or have homes under construction. Our efforts to address this progress is guided by the careful leadership of the Canyon ISD opportunities of choice in their future. Board of Trustees. In 2018, our citizens approved Canyon ISD has a proud history of producing a bond to renovate many campuses and build community leaders. Our commitment toward new schools. West Plains High School is under empowering lifelong success for our students construction in southwest Amarillo. It will open in is instilling those same values in the leaders August 2022. In addition, our two new elementary of tomorrow. campuses, Spring Canyon and Heritage Hills will open in 2021. Also, Randall Junior High will open in DR. DARRYL FLUSCHE 2022. The bond encompasses renovations at Happy CANYON ISD SUPERINTENDENT State Bank Stadium (formally Kimbrough Memorial Stadium). The stadium refresh will involve a new field house, concession and restroom areas, and improved accessibility. As a strong academic school district, Canyon ISD appreciates our partnerships with Amarillo College and West Texas A&M University. Our students have a smooth transition into their future beyond high school. Dual credit classes advance students financially with low-cost college coursework during high school. The Canyon ISD college and career roadmap prepares students for future options by developing resumes, providing college admissions exams for all juniors, and ensuring that every senior graduates with a plan. Our graduates are ready for college, for military service, or applying their skills in a career. Canyon ISD students have

CanyonNews.com 11 WELCOME

ith the combination of a small-town feel and city conveniences, Canyon invites you to become a part of the community. As of the 2010 census, 13,303 people lived inW Canyon, and Randall County’s population stood at 120,725. Canyon is officially located 14 miles south of Amarillo and 107 miles north of Lubbock, and Palo Duro Canyon, for which the city is named, is located about 12 miles from Canyon. The first wave of settlers arrived to Canyon in 1887 with L.G. Connor. Known as Canyon City until 1911, the city was selected as the county seat for Randall County in 1889 and officially incorporated in 1906. After Connor donated land for the site, West Texas A&M University, then known as West Texas State Normal College and later as West Texas State University, opened in 1910. The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum opened its doors in 1933 following fundraising efforts from Dr. Heidi Anderson, the Panhandle-Plains Historical Society and the community. Many businesses in Canyon hold customer Canyon’s population Through the efforts of the Civilian service as their top priority, and these shops is estimated to be Conservation Corps, Palo Duro Canyon State and stores can provide almost all the goods about 15,000 Park then opened in 1934. and services you need. For anything else A newspaper has served Canyon since you may want, Amarillo offers many more COUNTY SEAT OF RANDALL 1896, and it has been known as The Canyon options just a few miles down the road. COUNTY News since 1920. As you learn and grow at WTAMU, we Residents of Canyon value and appreciate hope you create lasting memories both inside Canyon is named for nearby the friendly environment here, and West and outside the classroom. You will have Texas A&M University plays an important the opportunity to gain new skills, become a Palo Duro Canyon and role in the community. Canyon springs to life leader in organizations on campus, involve was known as Canyon City in the fall with the return of students and the yourself with the community, and mold until 1911 arrival of new students coming to WTAMU yourself into the person you will be. for the first time. Recognized for its academic excellence THE TOWN WAS SURVEYED We think you’ll enjoy Canyon’s unique and affordability, life at WTAMU will IN 1887 BY L.G. CONNER lifestyle and soon come to think of the city provide you with a quality education, friends AND PLATTED TWO YEARS as home. During your time at WTAMU, we and the stories that you may one day tell LATER look forward to getting to know you, and your grandchildren. we hope GET BUFF helps you to feel more Your university and the Canyon CONNER DID NOT WANT THE comfortable in Canyon and learn more about community is here to support you — enjoy TOWN NAMED FOR HIM your new community. the start of the rest of your life. Canyon named one of The 10 CANYON FACTS Most Beautiful Towns in Texas by The Culture Trip

12 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 CanyonNews.com 13 14 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 HAROLD ROOT LOVES TALKING ABOUT CANYON’S HISTORY

BY NOLA HOPKINS was settled. Canyon did it right.” arold Root knows Canyon. Root has fond memories as he looks back After all, he was born here over his years growing up in Canyon, 84 years ago. He still owns He recalls that WT had the only swimming the house in which he was pool in town. A 25-cent health permit had to born in 1935. It’s one of his be obtained before a person was allowed in. rental properties. When Root and his friends headed to the HIt’s mind-boggling to Root that just 60 years pool, “We would jump on our bikes, circle before his birth the last of the Indians were the courthouse and dodge the old geezers, routed from Palo Duro Canyon as part of the probably in their sixties, who sat on benches Red River War. on the north side,” he said. As if being born here didn’t entitle Root Canyon did not have a police department to be a full-fledged Canyonite, both sets but did have a night watchman. of his grandparents lived here in 1908 “We didn’t worry about locking the house,” when Canyon City (its original name) Root said. was incorporated. Root said there was no trash pick-up. The city actually began when Lincoln Guy Instead people used burn barrels in Conner surveyed land and settled in a dugout the alleys. in December 1887. In the spring of 1889, The railroad depot was active then. Root he laid out the new town. His dugout then remembers the smell of steam engines on served as a general store and post office as a foggy day. The depot had a penny gum well as his home. machine that Root frequented. Canyon City was chosen as the new town’s During WWII, most Canyon families name because Conner didn’t want it named raised “victory gardens” in their backyards. for him. His name has not been forgotten, It wasn’t unusual for a family to have a though, because Conner Park, which adjoins cow, also. the new aquatics center, bears it. Root said all Canyon schools were located Voters selected the town as the county where Canyon Intermediate now sits. seat when Randall County was established in A big school event was when the boys’ in 1964. She considers herself a “newby” July 1889. basketball team won State in 1950. Girls’ in Canyon. Businesses, churches, and schools sprang basketball was half-court back then. Over the years, Root and his two brothers up in the following years. In 1896 the first Church activities and movies were have built more than 200 homes in Canyon, phone line ran from Amarillo to Canyon. the main entertainment when Root was so it wasn’t too much of a stretch for him The Pecos and Northern Texas Railway growing up. to buy the 1909 First National Bank on the arrived in Canyon City in 1898, making the Farmers came to town on Saturdays. In the corner of Fourth Avenue and 15th Street in young town a shipping point for the cattle evening parents parked their cars around 1985. Although only the first floor was usable, raised on nearby ranches. the square and visited while their children over the next 15-20 years, he restored the Conner donated 40 acres of land in 1910 watched movies in the Olympic Theater on building which now has several offices and to help establish West Texas State Normal the north side of the square. Because the businesses in it. College (now West Texas A&M University). theater’s bathroom was only a “one-holer” In the basement he has the “Root Cellar” – a The first classes were held in the courthouse (one commode), at intermission there was small museum of Canyon/Randall County until the first building was completed in 1911. a “stream of traffic going across to the items he has collected. He has the large The town was renamed Canyon in 1911. Its courthouse bathrooms.” picture of individuals of his 1953 Canyon population was 1,500 by 1915. A drive-in theater stood where the county High School class that once hung on the By 1940, five years after Root’s home- maintenance buildings are now. school’s wall. He has nine years’ worth of birth, Canyon’s population was 2,622. The Movies were popular because there were other classes’ pictures, also. city had paved streets, brick churches, a no televisions. Root isn’t pining for “the good ole days.” He public library and the Panhandle Plains During WWII, Canyon citizens, like sees Canyon’s recent growth as a good thing. Historical Museum. everyone across the country, dealt with “They (other people) are finally figuring “We are so spoiled,” Root said. “It’s hard to rationing of their sugar, tires and gas. out that this is the place to be,” Root said. get young people to know how this country Root married Wanda Sibley of Clarendon He should know.

CanyonNews.com 15 Q&A WITH

EVELYN ECKER BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY EDEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR FOR CANYON For businesses and people looking to move to Canyon, what makes the area so attractive? A sense of community makes Canyon attractive to people. The historic downtown square has experienced a renaissance in the past five years. The reawakening of the square has occurred in many ways. From adaptive reuse of properties that were built as early as 1909 to the new construction of an open-air shopping area. All of the property gaps around the square have been utilized contributing to the development of a “sense of place.”

What do you like most about the job you have? I like working with the volunteers who serve on the various boards and committees. It truly takes a collection of ideas to reach a vision and define the goals. This is how it started in 2002 with Canyon being named a Texas Main Street city. In my job, it is fun to finally see the results of major efforts coming Capitalizing on the fact that we are home goal is to offer more options for shopping to fruition. to the second largest canyon in the United and dining in Canyon. States, West Texas A&M University, There has been a lot of growth in Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum and the Looking forward, what is the outlook for downtown thanks to the focus on historical downtown district gives incentive things in Canyon over the next 5-10 years? revitalizing things. How much has that for the tourist experience. The Canyon Good, steady growth and being able helped Canyon? Economic Development Corporation is a to continue providing the amenities for The number one goal in 2006 was for partner with most of the new businesses and our community, as well as enhancing the Canyon to become a destination for tourists. developments we see around the square. Our visitor experience.

16 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 team. Canyon High School girls track 93.72, Randall High School Softball 93.04, Canyon High School football 92.30, Randall High School girls basketball 92.93 and many more of our programs achieved this as well. I also want to see our athletes grow as young men and women and learn leadership and team skills that can be applied to their life. We have an amazing opportunity and responsibility as coaches, and we want to ensure we have the folks in place to take care of our athletes and give them lifelong support.

What do you want students and coaches to get out of participating in extracurricular activities at Canyon and Randall? I expect our coaches to grow great future husbands, wives, fathers, mothers, teammates, coworkers and more. I know that the students we have the opportunity to impact will one day hopefully return to our community and become its leaders. Athletics provides opportunities to learn life lessons at an early age. We have some amazing coaches in our district who truly build a lifelong bond with our athletes and provide support to them for years to come.

How does having the third high school - West Plains - impact your role as athletic director? Describe the Happy State Bank Stadium We will not only be adding a new high project and the impact it will have on the school, but a new junior high as well, so the local economy and the community? impact in my position will be substantial. On We will have the jewel of the Texas the administrative side, adding new coaches, Panhandle. For years to come not only our programs and managing multiple schedules community, but communities across the will be an extended task. Time management Panhandle will gather at Happy State Bank will be very important as I want to give all Stadium. The improvements are going of our programs appropriate attention and to make this facility second to none and support. It will be an exciting time for CISD something really special for our Region to as a whole though. New traditions, rivalries enjoy. I believe that when people pull up to and basically a new community around the the stadium they will be pleased with the new high school will be enjoyable. finished products. We are so thankful to our community for trusting us in the bond What are your expectations for the 2020- of 2018 to help provide the funding for this 2021 athletic school year for Canyon ISD? project. The impact economically will be I tell anyone that will listen that in Canyon felt in a positive manner as events will be ISD we expect to be elite in everything that Q&A WITH planned at the facility year round. This is we do. This is more than athletics, but as going to be an amazing asset to Canyon ISD. people, leaders, athletes, teachers, etc we TOBY TUCKER simply expect the best. Our communities CANYON ISD ATHLETIC DIRECTOR How would you define athletic success in demand it and our athletic department does Canyon ISD? as well. I see this next year as one that is full I look at it way more than wins and of potential and we must ensure that we work T losses, and don’t get me wrong that is very to meet that potential. We want Canyon ISD important, and we are blessed to have to be a destination for families as they move many successes. However we also love or look to relocate in the Texas Panhandle. to celebrate the things people just don’t The groundwork that has been laid in the always see. We had multiple programs past with our vision to the future makes with grade point averages over 90’s as a Canyon ISD simply the place to be.

CanyonNews.com 17 For the latest news and information, visit canyonnews.com

18 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 Q&A WITH STEVE BRUSH CANYON POLICE CHIEF

SDescribe the impact of the Canyon Police Department to providing safety to Canyon residents? The citizens of Canyon depend on the Police Department for the protection of lives and property and the Canyon Police Department is trained and equipped for this responsibility. We continue to improve our capabilities to better serve the citizens through a commitment to training and education. Canyon has been recognized as one of the Texas’ safest cities and we are working hard to ensure we maintain that status. The Police Department has a great relationship with the citizens of Canyon, building on that relationship and working in partnership with the citizens, I believe the department will continue having a positive impact to make our city a safe place to live and work.

How would you describe the crime rate There is a dedicated interest in improving progress is growth with maintaining a “home in Canyon? our community and what we have to offer town” atmosphere. The City of Canyon has one of the lowest as a city. I believe we can maximize our crime rates in the state and we are under community strengths with the continued What is the next big ‘leap’ for Canyon national averages. Even though crime rates commitment of the citizens to be involved, moving forward? fluctuate, the Police Department is in a good our economic growth and our Canyon pride. In my opinion, the next big leap for position to maintain our proactive patrol, Canyon is increasing businesses, city call response and investigative capabilities to How do you define ‘progress’ for Canyon? services and City infrastructure to support keep and even improve our low crime rate. Progress for Canyon is our growth, both the physical growth of the city. As the city economically and the physical size of our grows, we will need more business to provide What do you see as Canyon’s greatest city, while keeping our small town values local products and services the citizens want assets and how do we maximize our and atmosphere. As Canyon grows, progress and need. City services will need to increase community strengths? will include maintaining the standards we to maintain and improve the infrastructure Canyon’s greatest assets are our citizens have as a city. I think the citizens still want and services we are responsible for and the community as a whole. The citizens to know their neighbors, their business providing at the level residents of Canyon are of Canyon take great pride in our town. associates and their elected officials. I believe accustomed to.

CanyonNews.com 19 Looking from a property tax and water/ an existing block. There are 15 houses on the sewer/trash revenue generation, we are block, the construction costs are $256,000 to doing some fiscal impact analysis with a complete. The 15 houses (for simplicity sake, consultant to help us better understand those they are all valued at $120,000) are bringing impacts, along with revenues generated in the following tax revenue per year: 15 or lost. For example, we took a look at the houses X $120,000 equals $1,800,00 divided new housing development Madison Park by 100 = $18,000 X (Canyon Tax Rate 0.37899) to see what property tax generation we are = $6,821 in property tax revenue per year receiving today. Several houses are being for this block. As a reminder, roads are paid built right now and it is not completely for by property taxes. In this instance, it done. Currently, we are receiving $70,866 would take 37 years of property tax revenue in property tax revenue (total), which to pay for the cost of this street. $256,000 doesn’t seem like a huge amount of money; (construction cost) divided by $6,821 (annual but, every dollar counts. The water/sewer tax revenue) equals 37.5 years. revenue generation is a different animal. These are the types of financial impact We are beginning to look at our investment analysis that we are looking at in the Q&A WITH as a city to see if we are recouping our decision-making process, capital investment money in an effective manner with some of process and revenue generation. When we JOE PRICE the improvements that are being made to have a new subdivision presented to the City, CANYON CITY MANAGER get services to these subdivisions. Like any we look at the number of homes, look at the form of business (government or private), city’s average utility bill, review the proposed J there is always a cost break point. So far, home values, the anticipated annual cost for everything looks great, we are trying to maintenance, the cost of personnel to pick-up Describe the economic impact of the new educate ourselves on making these decisions trash, etc. These items of revenue generation housing developments being constructed to see what level of revenue generation we all come up in our internal discussions. So in Canyon and the revenue generated over will receive from these services and if things far, revenues are looking good as we continue the next 5 years? are working out, in terms of cost recovery. down the path of growth. Like anything, The economic impact of the new housing A related example, let’s say we need to growth and change comes with its challenges; developments and the growth has been reconstruct a street from the ground up on but, we will push forward! incredible in Canyon. The current fiscal year will be a record for new home permits. Last year we had around the 80 mark for a total. Currently, we have already made it to that mark and still have several months to go in our fiscal year. I predict at least 100 new home permits. We have not seen this type of growth in decades. There are many things that go into the economic impact in terms of revenue generated. In terms of sales tax generation, we are seeing people spend more and more money at Canyon businesses and restaurants. A new item that has come down from a United States Supreme Court decision are online sales tax from purchases. For the past many years, we did not receive sales tax if someone with a Canyon address bought from Amazon, Wayfair, etc. However, that has changed and some of these vendors have skyrocketed all the way to the top 5 of our sales tax generators. We are grateful that the Supreme Court has made this change. Additionally, with the population growth, we are seeing more people in town and those individuals and families are spending their hard-earned dollars at local businesses to support the economy. With COVID-19, we were expecting at least a 10-15% drop in our sales tax from April (receive in the month of June); but, we actually received a 12% increase compared to April 2019.

20 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | May 19, 2019 Q&A WITH KIRSTIE PATTERSON CANYON MAIN STREET EVENTS KCOORDINATOR

Describe your role and responsibilities as the Canyon Main Street Program Coordinator? As a designated Main Street community (recognized by the Texas Main Street Program of the Texas Historical Commission and the National Main Street Center/ Main Street America), Canyon Main Street be”, and we have received lots of positive rewarding to see people being brought follows a set of Transformation Strategies feedback from our downtown events. These together and enjoying an event in which I put to improve our community. Based off these events create a real sense of community, and so much time and work into. strategies, we have an Advisory Board, also exposes people that may not normally Promotions Committee, Organization spend much time downtown to all that What makes living and working in Canyon Committee and Design Committee that I Canyon has to offer. Not only are Canyon special to you? How has growing up in oversee. Much of my time is also spent people attending these events and visiting a small town such as Canyon impacted planning and fundraising for community downtown; there are several people from your life? events and projects, and recruiting and surrounding communities who are coming to I am blessed to be able to both live and managing volunteers. Canyon to attend our events and try out one work in Canyon. Many people recognize of our restaurants and walk the Square. that Canyon is a special place and choose to What kind of events does Canyon Main Why did you want to pursue a career in live here, but a lot of them have to commute Street offer throughout the year and what Event Planning and how did you become for work. Working in Canyon gives me kind of impact do those events have on involved with Canyon Main Street? the opportunity to be more involved in the our community? I actually started out as an Administrative community. My job is one that is already As Canyon continues to grow and bring Assistant for the Business and Community heavily involved in the community, but by more people to our downtown, we have Development Department for the City of working in Canyon, I am able to get involved added more events each year, with this year Canyon, which included Canyon Main Street in other organizations and attend other being the most ever! 2019 events include and the Canyon Economic Development community and networking functions the Giddy Up for Tex 5K, Lunch & Learn at Corporation. As time went on, I became (Canyon Lions Club, Canyon Chamber’s Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, June more heavily involved in the Canyon Main Women in Business, etc.). While there are Jams (we are adding an extra concert this Street side and planning and coordinating advantages and disadvantages to growing up year in May!), Movie Night on the Square, the events, and was promoted to Program and living in a small town, I am very thankful Tex Randall’s 60th Birthday Party, a Dive-in Coordinator for Canyon Main Street in that I was raised in Canyon. I think that when Movie at Canyon Aqua Park, Throwback May 2018. Working for Canyon Main you are raised in a small town, you have Thursday Movie Night, Autumn Street Fest, Street has given me the opportunity to a sense of belonging that will always stay Halloween Spooktacular on the Square, and make a difference in my hometown and the with you, even if you move away. Although we host Visits with Santa at the Christmas in community that I love. Planning events is Canyon is going through many changes (good Canyon community celebration. a lot of work and can be stressful at times, changes), the people remain the same, and it The Square in Canyon is “the place to but when it is all said and done it is very will always be home.

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22 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 CanyonNews.com 23 our enrollment numbers will reach Define the Canyon ISD ‘Vision 2020’ program to 10,000 students for the 2017-2018 and the impact it will have on the school school year. district and community? During the 2016-2017 school year, Canyon ISD Define your role as Canyon ISD embarked on a Vision 2020 Strategic Planning Superintendent and what are your process. This process began with the CISD responsibilities? How long have you Board of Trustees setting their sights on a new served in this position? vision statement, a new brand and establishing 5 I am completing my fourth year as Key Areas of focus. These key areas include: superintendent and I have thoroughly 1. Staffing / Human Resources: We will enjoyed being part of the CISD family and recruit, develop, and retain exceptional staff to the Canyon – Amarillo community. A serve our students. priority is having a safe, secure and 2. Student Success: We will ensure each welcoming learning environment for student is empowered with a competitive edge students and staff. My role as Canyon for lifelong learning. ISD Superintendent serving on the 3. Facilities / Growth: We will optimize Q&A WITH team with our Board of Trustees resources to enhance educational opportunities DR. DARRYL FLUSCHE overseeing the district as a whole. and manage growth. CANYON ISD SUPERINTENDENT From their direction, I work with our 4. Technology: We will utilize innovative administrators in day to day decisions technology to build engaging experiences. about instructional programs, budget 5. Community Partnerships: We will D and finance, and human resources. actively engage and collaborate with parents, Setting high expectations for student community and business partners. What makes Canyon ISD one of the most academic performance is an ongoing Action Teams were assembled to engage our exceptional school districts in the state focus. Another vital part of my role is to community in designing the future pathways of Texas? create avenues for CISD to communicate for Canyon ISD. The five Action Teams Canyon ISD is a special place for our with and stay connected with parents and consisted of approximately 100 parents, board students and families. The heart of our community members across our district. members, staff, community, and business success rests with our staff, parents and The relationships we build with our members. The stakeholders participated in community. Our district takes great pride in community broaden the opportunities several meetings to set our direction for the having an extremely supportive community and experiences for our students. We next 3 to 5 years. In June, the Vision 2020 plan that values education. One of our assets is rely on our stakeholders to let us know will be completed. This is an exciting time our quality, stable leadership in our Board how we are doing and how we can get for Canyon ISD as we address the growth and of Trustees. Leadership is exemplified at better as we move forward. opportunities that are on the horizon. the district office and at each campus. The district boasts knowledgeable and caring teachers who hold high expectations for student learning. Our high student performance compliments the conservative use of our resources. Canyon ISD provides a variety of opportunities to engage student interests, including extra-curricular programs where students often advance beyond district. We are strengthening connections through partnerships with West Texas A&M University, Amarillo College and industries serving our local economy. CISD is intentional in our College and Career Readiness efforts to provide students with greater choices after graduation.

Describe the impact that Canyon ISD has on the economic growth inside Canyon and Randall County? Canyon ISD is one of the larger employers in the area and we hire over 1,300 employees to serve our 15 campuses and support areas. We have an annual budget amount of $73 million and we serve over 9,800 students. Since we are a growing district,

24 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 Q&A WITH RONNIE HALL WEST TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY RALUMNI DIRECTOR Describe your role and responsibilities at the West Texas A&M University Alumni Association? One of the major roles that I have is to engage WT Alumni with WTAMU and to connect alumni with the WT Colleges, greater than myself. are making an impact in their community departments, and students of our during the pandemic. This drew attention University. I work with the WT Alumni What makes WTAMU special to you to what alumni are doing and created a Board of Directors. and we are committed to and how do you promote the University sense of Buff Pride that many Alumni could establishing the vision and various strategies to alumni? celebrate. Another way to promote our to provide opportunities for the alumni Stepping onto the West Texas State University is to connect the alumni with to give back to the University that gave so University campus as a freshman, I had students. Alumni not only enjoy listening much to them as students. The WT Alumni no idea the impact that this University to students, but also enjoy sharing their Association creates volunteer opportunities, would have on my life. By the time I experiences they had as students. It gives professional networking opportunities and was completing my degree in 1995, I had alumni an opportunity to reminiscence alumni social events to help the alumni stay fallen in love with WTAMU, the mission, and tell stories they experienced at WT that connected. My goal when speaking to WT and like so many other WT graduates, I had created life long friendships and memories Alumni is to instill a sense of belonging and found that I wanted my new home to be in for them, and stories of how studying at WT continued connection to WTAMU. Canyon. I am thankful to work not only on shaped and impacted their life. I believe a beautiful campus, but to work alongside these individual experiences en-grain a How has working at WTAMU impacted co-workers that have a strong desire to loyalty that connects not only our alumni, your life? educate and impact people’s lives. I love but connects our students to the University. Working at WTAMU has provided meeting new people from all walks of life, opportunities for me to meet thousands of I love engaging people in our University, What makes living and working in WT Students and WT Alumni in my 25 years and I love the opportunity to invest in WT Canyon special to you? of WT Employment. The passion of my life is Alumni and student’s lives to help them The people. I have a friend that states, working in a university setting; my love for grow and succeed in their life experiences. “Every day is a good day in Canyon.” I have working at WTAMU began when I realized I WT Students are talented and do learned this statement is true. I love living had the opportunity to truly make an impact incredible things. Seeing the next and working in Canyon because of the in student lives every single day. I began my generation of Buffs succeed at the place people that live here, always eager to greet career with WTAMU in 1995 - through the that helped shape alumni helps to build you with a smile and eager to help each years, I have been fortunate to meet faculty the connection and relationship for our other out. Something unique about Canyon and staff who modeled servant leadership, Alumni. WT Alumni also enjoy hearing is that it is located near the second largest creating in me a desire to do the same for about the success and experiences of their canyon in the United States, Palo Duro students and alumni. Working daily with fellow classmates and love to celebrate with Canyon. Taking friends to see and hike Palo students and alumni has instilled in me them. During the month of April, we asked Duro Canyon always leaves a big impression a desire to live a life for a purpose much alumni to share stories of how WT Alumni on their time spent here.

CanyonNews.com 25 26 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 MarshaClementsArt.com Original Oil Paintings Portraits and Commissions Fourth Avenue Fine Art 806-676-1733 1608 4th Canyon TX

CanyonNews.com 27 What do you see as Canyon’s greatest while upholding the values that Canyon has assets and how do we maximize our long held important – honesty, integrity, community strengths? relationship, servant leadership and grit. Canyon’s greatest assets are our friends and neighbors who value community and What is the next big ‘leap’ for Canyon going give of their time, from civic clubs to church into the future? groups to sports league boards and coaches. A couple of years ago I stated that the next Canyon is filled with folks who are living life big step for Canyon would be retail businesses for a greater purpose than serving oneself. coming to town as they saw opportunities This adds a quality of life you can’t buy and with population growth. That has begun and can’t find in most places. I am excited about many new businesses that exude a fun experience such as Creek House How do you define ‘progress’ in Canyon and Honey Farm, Palo Duro Canyon Outfitters Randall County? and The Burrowing Owl. The future of local Progress for Canyon is growth in retail is not generic competition with the opportunities both to enhance quality of life internet. It is in providing such an enjoyable and provide avenues for our young folks experience that Canyon and Panhandle folks, so they will have vision to be a part of the as well as tourists look forward to shopping in Q&A WITH future of our great community. We do this our fair city. GARY HINDERS GCANYON MAYOR

What do you see for Canyon’s future in the next 5 years? We will be even prouder of Canyon five years from now than we are today. There is a diversity of developments taking place that will create neighborhoods we will be proud to have as part of Canyon. These, along with updated schools, a new Spring Canyon Elementary School, and a revitalized Happy State Bank Stadium will continue to elevate the quality of life for young families in Canyon. We will have a record number of new houses to bring in new neighbors and friends. I am excited about the leadership I see in our new City Manager Joe Price to make this happen.

Should Canyon look more or less like Amarillo? Thoughts on your decision. Canyon shares the same Panhandle spirit as Amarillo. Many of our residents work in Amarillo. Canyon has a mutually beneficial relationship with Amarillo – a great city. However, it is vital that we retain our own identity. That includes the focus of being a college town with education, entertainment and flavor that brings. We value being a small town with the strength of relationships that comes from knowing those we are doing life with.

28 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 Describe WTAMU’s impact on the Talk about the WTAMU Agriculture economic development and growth Complex and how that facility will of Canyon? enhance the campus, as well as the A recent economic impact study quality of education offered? determined that West Texas A&M University WT’s genesis as a Normal School and the spending of its students, visitors will forever guide its future as a and former students created an impact of regional research University. The $432.2 million for the Amarillo/Canyon under-construction, new Agricultural area, provided 1,206 jobs and attracted 5,697 Sciences Complex is a living testimony visitors to our campus. This Economic to regional purpose. It will be first a Modeling Specialists International study is place of teaching. In addition, it will impressive for sure. However, our greatest provide research energy that comes from and most lasting impact is the development regional needs.

Q&A WITH of human capital. As one of the largest meat animal People with skills, insights and very production regions on the planet, DR. WALTER WENDLER importantly, wisdom, help make the agricultural research and support of this WEST TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT Panhandle a productive and enjoyable place mission will allow us to serve the people to live and do business. It is impossible of West Texas and beyond. Currently, W to assign a dollar value to the “Panhandle more than 71 percent of the teachers values” that make WTAMU so appealing that populate the K-12 schools in the Describe your role as the West Texas A&M to me. To belong to something larger top 26 counties have at least one degree University President? What specific duties than self, to hold in the highest regard from WTAMU. do you hold within the position? family, community and faith, all make the The Panhandle rises and falls on the The North Star of my role as president is Panhandle special. abilities and commitments of its teachers. one simple principle: Everything we do at This combination of intentions of West In addition, the Panhandle’s future West Texas A&M University should assist Texans will continue to be valued and prosperity as a meat animal center for students in creating a roadmap for their central. Our university will do whatever it the world will likewise rise and fall on the future, one that sustains a free society. takes to maintain the DNA of West Texas. quality of our programs in every college. “Heady?” Maybe, but it is my heartfelt charge. The primary component of achieving this goal is leadership. However, a significant portion of my role on campus is managing and serving others who share this vision and assist the students in attaining their aspirations. We are blessed at WTAMU. We have highly capable and energetic faculty, a dedicated and intentional staff and leadership by a Board of Regents and Chancellor John Sharp of The Texas A&M University System. They support us in every way. My constant concerns are a commitment to excellence in academic pursuits, fiscally sound and economically responsive business practices, attention to the needs of students in leadership and life skills and intercollegiate athletics programs that put the “student” first in student- athlete. Additionally, passion for computing and technical support that makes available to students, faculty and staff the most current technology; assessing and admitting students who are qualified to study here and helping them manage the costs of their educational experiences; an developing gift resources are critical management issues. These commitments distinguish WTAMU from similar institutions. A special opportunity – one found at no other institution in Texas – is our relationship to the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum.

CanyonNews.com 29 Q&A WITH SHAWN BURNS WEST TEXAS A&M SUNIVERSITY POLICE CHIEF

Describe the impact of the West Texas A&M University Police Department to providing campus safety in Canyon? The University Police Department (UPD) provides a huge impact to the safety and security not only on campus, but in the How would you describe the crime rate on investigation and recovery of those items. city of Canyon. Our UPD officers are state the WT campus? UPD posts a ten year look at our crime stats on licensed peace officers as any other officer in The crime rate on the WT campus is low our website in order to allow our community this area and we have mutual aid agreements by most standards and we are proud of our to review those offenses and provide as much with the surrounding agencies to insure our community for helping us keep the crime rate information about their safety as possible. community is protected to the greatest length low. Our community has a huge impact on possible and to insure adequate resources our crime rate because what they do matters What do you see as Canyon and WT’s should a large event occur. Our constant when it comes to securing their belongings greatest assets and how do we maximize patrol of campus and our outlying properties and reporting suspicious activity. When our community strengths? means our officers are moving around and reviewing our crime statistics, you’ll see that I think the great asset we have as a patrolling thereby supplementing the efforts the most prevalent crimes on campus are community is our small town values and of both the Canyon Police Department and larceny theft and alcohol/drug violations. commitment to each other. Our community, Randall County Sheriff’s Department, both The major crimes of Homicide, Sexual both campus and Canyon, has a great quality agencies with outstanding officers. Assault, Robbery, and Aggravated Assault deal of pride in this area. Because of that Our interaction with our campus community are historically low number offenses on pride, they care about what happens here provides us the opportunity to educated campus, but any numbers in these categories and look out for each other. We get calls them on how to protect themselves, their concern us so we work to keep those numbers into our dispatch center on suspicious families, businesses, and friends according to low through proactive measures such as activity or on things that disrupt the quality the current crime trends in our area and the programs, educational opportunities with of life our community enjoys. It’s that country. UPD spends a fair amount of time student groups, and training with our partnership between law enforcement and annually doing training and programs to our officers. To specifically target the areas the community that makes our community campus community as well as to the larger with higher numbers, we have implemented safer and stronger. The way we maximize Panhandle Community through various programs that specifically address those that strength is to continue to work together programs and presentations. We take our problem areas, such as Operation Lock Out toward the common goal of a higher quality role as ambassadors for WTAMU very Theft. We provide an online database where of life for all. Working together as a seriously and want to portray both WTAMU our campus community can provide the community, we can address issues that affect and the profession of law enforcement identifying information for their property everyone and lift each other up to make our favorably and work hard every day to do so. in the event it is stolen to assist us with the community as a whole better.

30 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 share the unique history and stories of our What are a few goals for the museum in the region. We teach our community about their next five years? history and how it has shaped their today. We To continue to strengthen the relationship bring in speakers, exciting exhibitions and between West Texas A&M University programming from all over the country. and PPHM in curriculum support and student life, to increase educational Why do you think the people support and offerings, attendance and distance learning are interested in the Panhandle-Plains participation and finally to continue to make Historical Museum? the museum the premier university-affiliated Inherently, museums are about stories museum in the state and the region. and storytelling and we have a great, diverse and exciting story to tell of this region. What’s one thing that you want people People are drawn to the past to understand to know about the Panhandle-Plains it and to hopefully learn from it. I have seen Historical Museum? pride coming from the people of this area We are here to be a resource and a fun for having the largest history museum in community gathering space in Canyon. Our their town. It is really special to visit with goal at the museum is to be much more than Q&A WITH someone who comes to show their family a brick and mortar location, but to rather be an artifact that relates to their lives or the a place for the community to gather, learn STEPHANIE PRICE lives of their relatives. We are continuously and grow. We want to be an integral part PANHANDLE-PLAINS HISTORICAL MUSEUM blessed by people supporting our exhibits or of the fabric of Canyon through hosting COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING DIRECTOR commenting on our posts about their love for events, exhibitions, and sharing the stories of S this institution. our community.

How does the community of Canyon enable the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum to not only exist but grow? Our community does so many things to support our museum, you come to visit or attend our special events like Christmas Open House, Night at PPHM or Dino Day. We see our community supporting us through their memberships and donations. They support us by donating artifacts and of course by volunteering. It is like Hattie Anderson, our founder said, “and we believe in the future our people will point with pride to their museum and the historical society.” Please continue to show up, participate and be a part of all the things going on here. Join us on social media or visit our website to see how you can link into our mission and reach out to us for partnerships.

How does the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum impact Canyon? PPHM is a great tourist destination in Canyon and draws global visitation and notoriety. We are an integral part of the West Texas A&M University campus. PPHM has a tremendous overall annual economic impact generated through operations, salaries, tourism and visitation. But more than that, PPHM serves K-12 students in Canyon ISD and 55 other school districts through educational programs inside and outside our museum. We conserve and

CanyonNews.com 31 What programs does the Randall County and our schools. The skills they learn in Extension office offer to youth in Canyon? 4-H is something that they take with them How does 4-H benefit the youth of Canyon into adulthood making them productive and Randall County? members of our city and county. We have your traditional projects such as livestock, cooking and sewing that most What makes living and working in people relate to. We also offer Robotics, Canyon special to you? Photography, Public Speaking, Dog Project, The people are what make living and Gardening, and Shooting Sports. 4-H grows working in Canyon so special to me. our youth in Randall County to become Everyone is eager to get involved and lend a outstanding leaders in our community helping hand.

Q&A WITH TINA HICKS RANDALL COUNTY TEXTENSION AGENT

Describe your role and responsibilities as the Randall County Extension Agent? As the 4-H and Youth Development Agent, I oversee the 4-H program in Randall County. I am responsible for identifying, recruiting and training club managers and project leaders.

Why did you want to pursue a career in the Agriculture field? I love working with youth and love what the 4-H program has to offer. It is so awesome to watch a shy young child enter the 4-H program and watch them over the years to grow into an amazing leader that will speak in front of a crowd without hesitation.

How does the Randall County Extension office impact the economy of Canyon? The Randall County Extension office makes a big impact on the economy of Canyon by educating the public on many topics from Agriculture to Horticulture to Health & Wellness to Youth Development. We work to educate our community on a variety of subject areas making a positive impact on the community.

32 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 in the Top 10 nationally in terms be about: competing for and winning of athletic results of all Division II championships with genuine student- schools with football. I expect our athletes who are here for their overall grade-point average to rise education, as well as an outstanding above 3.0 consistently, and I expect athletic experience. our graduation rates to increase another 10-15 percent. We opened How would you define ‘excellence’ a new football stadium in 2019 when it comes to the WTAMU that brings a significant economic athletic department? impact to the city of Canyon. The Our goal is to give students a new facilities will enable us to bring great experience at WTAMU – an more LSC and NCAA championships experience that will hopefully include to Canyon. championships, career preparation, a degree, lifelong friends and What should visitors to Canyon memories, and a lifelong attachment and potential recruits know about to the university and to Canyon. If WTAMU athletics and WTAMU? student-athletes leave here with all Q&A WITH We embody the true essence of of those checked off, then I guess that MICHAEL MCBROOM what college athletics is supposed to would be excellent. WEST TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY MATHLETIC DIRECTOR

What makes the West Texas A&M University athletic department one of the best in NCAA Division II? The reason is our coaches, student- athletes and administrators embrace the opportunities we have to help set the table for student success, and we have students who take advantage of these opportunities to become better students, better athletes and better people during their at WTAMU. It takes a commitment to working hard every day by everyone, and we are blessed to be surrounded by a lot of hardworking individuals that understand our goals are team goals and not individual accolades.

Define your role as WTAMU Athletic Director and your responsibilities? How long have you held this position? I oversee a 17-team athletic department with 420 student-athletes, almost 50 full- time employees and in excess of 100 part- time employees. I’ve been athletic director since May 2006.

Describe your vision for WTAMU athletics over the next five years? Continue to take advantage of opportunities that will allow each of our teams and the student-athletes to earn championships on the fields of play and degrees from WTAMU. I expect us to remain

CanyonNews.com 33 BUILT ON SMALL- TOWN VALUES, RELATIONSHIPS

BY TIM RITTER appy State Bank takes pride in establishing relationships within Amarillo, Canyon and the state of Texas. For the past 30 years, it’s those life-long connections that has Happy State Bank Hexcelling at a high level. Whether it’s in the small towns of West Texas or the metropolitan cities of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Happy State Bank’s mission statement revolves around Hickman said in hard work, fun, making money, providing a 2016 Discover outstanding customer service and honoring Canyon article. the Golden Rule. “We heard the The employees of Happy State Bank go bank in Happy was out of their way to help and make their for sale and I went customers feel appreciated. They care about and found the very their customers and in turn, their customers best business people feel right at home when they enter the doors in Canyon, Texas, of this multi-million dollar institution. and in 1990, when According to Happy State Bank Chairman nobody was buying and Chief Executive Officer J. Pat Hickman Texas banks, we in 2016, “We know our customers. We go to bought that little $10 church with our customers. Our kids go to million bank that had school with our customers’ kids. We’re not six employees.” banking customers, we’re banking friends. Hickman added, And, we’re banking neighbors.” “Our whole purpose The roots of Happy State Bank’s was just to be a really Gary Hinders, Canyon Mayor and foundation lies in the Texas Panhandle good bank for Canyon. We thought we might President of the Happy State Bank-Canyon with the original bank starting in 1908 in have one branch someday outside of Canyon Branch, said he’s been employed with Happy Happy, Texas. in Amarillo that would be there to service State Bank for 27 years. Hickman noted previously that the modern our customers that were from Canyon. Our “It’s hard to believe,” Hinders said with bank started in Canyon, Texas. whole intent, originally, was to serve Canyon a laugh. “I have aged and grown up here “It was in 1989 that I heard the little bank and we still support Canyon in ways we … and there’s several of us that have been. in Happy, Texas was for sale. I was a banker support no other community. Simply because Another friend of mine, Ross Glenn, works in my hometown of Canyon, Texas … Canyon that’s not only my base, but several of our in Amarillo now. He’s been with the bank was home and had two banks. Neither one officers still live there (in Canyon) as do I.” 30 years now, along with Pat Hickman and was owned people in Canyon. One was the The first Happy State Bank building – Gary Wells. We all started here together and First National Bank of Amarillo, which according to Hickman – was there in Canyon it’s been fun doing life together and being was owned by stockholders all over the in 1995. community bankers.” area. One was named the First National “Now, we have gone to build, I think, over Hinders added that a lot of relationships Bank in Canyon, but was actually owned 25 buildings all over the state of Texas,” have started and continue to grow through by people around Plainview and Lubbock,” Hickman said. Happy State Bank.

34 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 non-profit organizations and programs, their efforts to benefit the community. This including Snack Pak 4 Kids, I Heart Canyon is evident through their variety of avenues and Kids, Inc. of support.” The key to Panhandle banking, according Along with acquiring the naming rights to to Hickman, is relationships and recognizing the football stadium, Happy State Bank also you’re banking with friends and neighbors. recently purchased Centennial Bank. “Our customers come in (to the bank) and According to Mikel Williamson, President just enjoy being here,” Hinders said. “That’s and CEO of Happy State Bank, “The merger who we (Happy State Bank) want to be.” will close on July 1, and, at that time, we will Happy State Bank’s core values, Hickman have 58 locations in 41 Texas communities stated, are “we will treat customers with the and combined assets of approximately same courtesy and respect we would expect $5 billion.” if we were in their position. Every contact is Williamson added, “We have always an opportunity to establish or to strengthen thought Centennial would be a good fit for a relationship. Happy State Bank’s growth plans in terms of “Helping the customer is our only job.” culture and locations.” Hinders, for many years, has acquired a In the 2019 Annual Report to Happy State strong working relationship and an even Bank stockholders and customers, Hickman stronger friendship with Hickman. noted that 2019 was, in fact, the best overall “Pat (Hickman) is a great people person,” year in the bank’s history. Hinders said. “He loves folks, he loves Happy Bancshares, Inc. stock value being in the mix visiting with friends increased to $48.25, up 11.6 percent for the and neighbors. Also, there’s a leadership year … and a 10-year annualized return of quality (that I admire) that he takes to whole 11.7 percent. other level. He also had done it well to be a HBI earnings were $42 million, up over part in the community and to epitomize a 32.0 percent, topping 2018 by $10.2 million. community banker.” Another successful capital raise of When Happy Hickman’s recent gift of $2 million to $64.9 million. State Bank opened Canyon Independent School District for Six branches were added in Matador, in Canyon in 1990, naming rights at Happy State Bank Stadium Memphis, Turkey, White Deer, Wheeler and Hickman noted (formerly Kimbrough Memorial Stadium) Mobeetie, solidifying Happy State Bank’s that the other shows his dedication and desire to being footprint in the Texas Panhandle. two banks were active and giving Canyon the best for Happy State Bank began construction on big banks. its citizens. two new branches in northeast Amarillo, as “We’re now, by “Happy State Bank has been a presence well as a new bank on Teckla. far, the biggest at the stadium for many years. The past few Hickman celebrated his 30th anniversary bank in Canyon,” years, Happy State Bank has been prominent on January 2, 2020, and handed over the CEO Hickman said. on the west side of the press box, and Happy title in April to Mikel Williamson. “Our original goal State Bank’s insignia has been on the turf “I will continue in my role as Chairman of of serving our since 2011,” said Canyon ISD Superintendent the Board for both the Bank and the Holding friends, serving our neighbors has proven to Dr. Darryl Flusche. Company,” Hickman said in the Annual be true. But, we’re still pretty much dedicated “Canyon ISD is so appreciative of this Report. “I am not retiring. I love this bank far to Canyon and those relationships that we donation to help us further the refresh of too much than to just retire and walk away.” built there.” Happy State Bank Stadium.” Happy State Bank’s presence in the Hinders, who has planted deep seeds in Canyon ISD Athletic Director Toby Tucker community resulted in 10,427 hours reported Canyon over the years, said that Happy State added, “The partnership with Happy State over the past year, as their employees served Bank wants to portray its roots and “we Bank affects not only athletics, but also the 541 organizations. absolutely love the name Happy.” whole (School) District.” One of Happy State Bank’s core values is to “It has played out really well, as far as the For over 20 years, Flusche said, Happy give back to the communities. That’s why if way we want to do business, and have that State Bank has been dedicated to academics something is happening, people will usually kind of experience whether it’s somebody through their sponsorship of the Canyon ISD see a team of Happy bankers pitching in and doing consumer banking or it’s on business annual New Employee Luncheon. helping out. banking side,” Hinders said. “Also, Happy State Bank often assists Hinders added that Hickman has really For three consecutive years from 2014 to schools with instructional enhancements had a heart for a lot of the projects in 2016, Happy State Bank was recognized as and helps with equipment and supplies in Canyon, whether that’s the Randall County one of the “Best Banks to Work For” in the our athletic programs.” Courthouse, Tex Randall or things at West nation, according to a project by American The support from Hickman toward Canyon Texas A&M University. Banker and Best Companies Group. ISD is always positive, Flusche said. It’s that love for community relations that For years now, Happy State Bank has “Mr. J. Pat Hickman and the staff at Happy has Happy State Bank thriving in Canyon and supported numerous community and State Bank are very forward-thinking in across Texas.

CanyonNews.com 35 36 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 CanyonNews.com 37 CANYON’S GROWTH EXPANDING WITH NEW BUSINESSES

BY NOLA HOPKINS This year was different. CEDC developed venues, and small manufacturing businesses. anyon businesses, like those a $200,000 assistance program, COVID-19 Hudspeth House Bed & Breakfast owners across the country, have Small Business Recovery Grant, to help local Bernadette and Lyndon Harrison will replace been hurt because of the businesses affected by the pandemic by the historic house’s large wrap-around front COVID-19 virus; however, offering grants up to $5,000. porch with the grant. They had thought the local businesses have had “When the state of Texas closed non- much-needed project would have to wait an advantage that businesses in other essential businesses, the CEDC board another year due to the loss of business from Ccommunities haven’t had: Canyon’s Economic knew that a special program needed to be the cancellation of TEXAS this summer. Development Corporation. developed and funded to assist locally- “We were very blessed to get the phone call CEDC, a Type B Development Corporation owned small businesses,” Ecker said. “The that we would be a recipient for that (grant),” that collects sales taxes for economic CEDC produces a monthly Cash Projection Harrison said. development, usually uses its revenue to worksheet, and it was determined that we Even though Dallas Bell was able to reopen promote new businesses and quality of could allocate $200,000 to invest in our small her business, Burrowing Owl Books, after life improvements. It, along with Canyon businesses. As of June 1, over 50 applications only two weeks of the virus shutdown, she Main Street, are under the Business and have been reviewed, and $185,000 has had no foot traffic business on the square. Community Development Department of the been granted.” “One day, after we reopened, we made city of Canyon and its director, Evelyn Ecker. Qualifications for the grants included $12.14 total in sales,” Bell said. “Shops were Past projects have included development being located within the Canyon city limits, closed, restaurants and coffee shops were of the Downtown Dining District and the having contact with the public, and having limited, and the Canyon community stayed Shops on Fifth Avenue, restoration of 25 or fewer employees. Categories included at home…. With many sleepless nights the turn-of-the century Randall County restaurant/food businesses, personal care wondering how I was going to pay for Courthouse public green space, and such as barber shops and hair and nail salaries, rent, utilities, and also be able to refurbishing of the iconic 47’ Tex Randall. salons, childcare facilities, retail stores, restock the shelves, several things happened.

38 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 A brochure sent to Canyon residents lists CEDC’s accomplishments of the past 15 years. It has invested $4,491,499 in economic development projects which included new construction, adaptive reuse and new businesses. The Small Business Assistance Program, established in 2007, has provided $634,339 for business retention and expansion. Ten percent of the sales tax revenue is dedicated to marketing and promoting Canyon, tourist attractions and quality of life. That has totaled $866,578. Additional quality of life projects such as The Canyon Parks Improvement project, which included Brown Road Soccer Complex, Our home town bank, Happy State, pushed he will buy the building. He also owns the Kent Johnson Memorial Baseball through the PPP loan on the first round of an outfitters store in Taos, N.M. and has Complex and partnership with Randall applications. Then, our Canyon Economic plans for other locations. He believes County on the public green space around Development Center applied for and in giving back to the community, so he the 1909 Randall County Courthouse have procured a grant for the small businesses will give 10 percent of his profits to local received $1,303,913. of Canyon. Prayers were answered, and charities: a humanitarian one and a ecology In 2017 Canyon’s tax revenue rose 11 I was able to sleep again. After filling out conservation one. percent. In the same year direct travel dollars an application for the grant and a short Texas Rose Steakhouse will open in a spent in Canyon rose 13 percent, which interview, we were awarded the funds. building that has been empty three years. It totaled $124 million. The CEDC worked “ I am so thankful for the community of brings 40 + years of restaurant experience to bring the Lone Star milk processing to Canyon and for our civic leaders during this with its steakhouses in Pampa and Borger. Canyon. The plant is expected to produce unprecedented time. The support from the Another new business venture in Canyon a $75 million impact on the community Canyon community has enabled Burrowing this summer is Journey Coffee that will by 2026. Owl to keep our doors open even in the open in the new outdoor shopping center, The CEDC’s efforts have brought state darkest of times. As the Panhandle is now Accoutremont, across from the United Bank and national attention to Canyon and gradually waking up from the COVID-19 Events Center. Randall County. slumber, numbers are up at Burrowing Owl. “Journey Coffee is a unique concept Canyon was the #1 spot on Dish Network’s Though we expect our sales to be low this developed by young entrepreneurs,” list of the nation’s “Best Small-Town Gems to year due to the decrease in tourism, we know Ecker said. “The CEDC is a partner in this Visit in 2018.” we will make it, mainly due to the community project, and the owners hope to open before Livability.com named Canyon “2016 Top at large and specifically to the CEDC.” school starts.” Ten Best Small Towns in America.” Despite delays by the virus, the CEDC Although the shopping center Niche.com listed Randall County as one has helped new businesses open in Canyon development is not a CEDC project, “We are of the “2019 best counties to buy a house in this summer. proud to see the property developed,” Ecker Texas” and “2019 best counties in Texas to Palo Duro Canyon Outfitters opened said. “We have committed to the owner of live in.” Saturday, June 6, on the square. Owner the development, to help recruit tenants Canyon is a Certified Retirement William Gaydosh said of his help from the for the spaces and hopefully incentivise the Community and a Preserve America CEDC, “We wouldn’t be here without them. new businesses.” Community. It has the stamp of approval We are going to give Canyon the best store In its 15 years of existence, the CEDC has from GO TEXAN. in Canyon.” reinvested $7,296,329 into the community. “As the late Lois Rice, former Canyon The CEDC purchased the building at The CEDC has followed its Strategic Plan mayor, always described Canyon as the Fourth Ave. and 16th Street, gutted it, and as well as the National Main Street’s Four- hidden jewel of the panhandle, she was spot remodeled it to fit Gaydosh’s needs and Point Approach to advance economic growth on 20 years ago, and it is still true today,” specifications. At the end of three years, in Canyon. Ecker said.

CanyonNews.com 39 40 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 UNITED SUPERMARKETS TAKES PRIDE IN STRONG CUSTOMER SERVICE

BY NOLA HOPKINS ach shopper who enters United guests. We have great employees; they all said. “Butchers are not a position you Supermarkets in Canyon is care deeply about the community. They care think of, and we still offer that service. It greeted with a friendly “hello” deeply about the success of the store, and speaks volumes.” from employees. That’s just the they care deeply about each other.” The store The pharmacy offers many services way it is. has 150 employees. such as blood pressure checks, diabetes And when that customer leaves, it’s no “The checkers and sackers know you by consultations and medication reviews. Other Edifferent. Sackers who push customers’ name,” customer Guylene Griffin said. “The services include transferring prescriptions, grocery carts to the cars for them and unload employees are definitely friendly. We (First giving vaccinations and filling workman’s their purchases visit with the patrons, asking United Methodist Church bereavement team) comp prescriptions. Online ordering how their days are going. use the deli a lot for our funeral meals. We is also available. The pharmacy accepts It’s the United way; it’s the Canyon way. pick up the fried chicken there. They go most insurance plans including Medicare, “We are very particular about who we above and beyond the call of duty to make Medicaid and Express Scripts. hire,” store director John Anderson said. sure we are taken care of.” The pharmacy is open Monday-Friday, 9 “Part of our service is speaking to our The deli is a favorite spot of many for a a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. It is quick lunch. Daily grill closed on Sunday. The store is open daily specials include fried from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. chicken and chicken Shoppers can earn Rewards points for free fried steaks, with pot every-day grocery items such as eggs and roast on Sundays. milk, cash discounts on other groceries, and Rotisserie chicken is discounts on gas from the fuel station. available daily. Additionally, United Supermarkets It’s hard to pass the offers store pick-up, United Express, at bakery with its fresh 806-655-2986. home-made bread The store also cashes checks and sells and cookies. Certified lottery tickets. cake decorators take The nearly 36,000 sq. ft. Canyon store orders for special opened in 2003 at 201 N. 23rd Street. It will occasions. Cakes range undergo a complete remodel that starts in from quarter sheets July and ends by October. Guests will find a that serve 12-15 to full sushi department between the deli and the sheets that serve 50. bakery. Another new department will be Anderson said the ready-meals in three categories: ready-to-eat, produce staff takes a ready-to heat, and ready-to cook. great deal of pride in It is one of 94 United Supermarket stores their fresh-cut produce. in Texas and New Mexico. Anderson has “You can come in been the store’s director since 2006 and has and grab fresh-cut worked with United Supermarkets 27 years. watermelon and But all these features and facts would be cantaloupe and much worth little if the workers failed to serve more,” he said. their customers. Three certified “They are very, very helpful,” shopper butchers also hand- Beth Welty said. “When I have not been able trim the meat. to find things, they have found them in other “We have butchers stores and brought them to the store here for that can do any cut of me. They are always very helpful and very meat that customer’s nice and freshly-stocked.” request,” Anderson It’s the United way.

CanyonNews.com 41 BUFFALO SPORTS PARK

he Buffalo Sports Park, home of the best NCAA Division II baseball, soccer, track and softball facilities, serves as the West Texas A&M University hub for athletic and community events. Available intramural sports include flag T“So much happens at the Buffalo Sports football, softball, basketball and volleyball, Park,” said former WT health sciences and WTAMU Rec Sports also facilitates student Jordan Young. “Organizations use activities such as sand volleyball, soccer, the area to put on events, and it’s also where spike ball, disc golf, bubble soccer, tennis, a lot of the intramural football and softball water polo, table tennis and corn-hole. games are played. What I really do like about The Buffalo Sports Park includes J. the Buffalo Sports Park is that it is used Ferg Field at Buffalo Stadium, Wilder for so much – intramurals, Buff Branding, Baseball Field, Schaeffer Park Softball homecoming events, community events like Field, a combined soccer and track and field the Relay for Life, track, soccer and baseball facility, two combined football and soccer and softball games.” practice fields. Lighted courts provide students with a Restrooms, ticket and concession facilities place to play sand volleyball, tennis and are also available for student convenience. basketball games at night, and on weeknights To join intramural sports or start a team, during the fall and spring semesters, WT students may visit www. IMLeagues.com intramural sports teams are in action. or call (806) 651-2364.

FIRST UNITED BANK CENTER

hether packed with In 2019, the Buffs hosted the first-year students, NCAA Division II South Central basketball fans, lectures Regional Tournament. or proud families of West Under the direction of head Texas A&M University coach Tom Brown, the Buffs made graduates, the First United Bank Center school history in 2018 with a 95-87 servesW as a home for many of the milestones win over the University of Texas- of a college career. Permian Basin in the regional “I’ve been to the First United Bank Center finals. The win over UT-Permian for basketball games, and it’s always so fun,” Basin guaranteed the Buffs a berth said former WT psychology major Kinslee in the 2018 NCAA Division II Elite Pat Green and the Josh Abbott Band for Cox. “The crowd really gets into the games, Eight, as well as the 2018 NCAA Division II Fourth of July outdoor concerts. and I love watching the players on the court.” Final Four. Also, many Distinguished Lecture Opened to the public in 2002, the First Other events hosted at the First United series speakers including Maya Angelou, United Bank Center was designed as a facility Bank Center included Canyon High School Somaly Mam, Dr. Elie Wiesel and Khaled with the versatility to host graduations (WT graduation, high school basketball playoff Hosseini have appeared at the First United and Canyon High School), sports events (WT games, Kids, Inc. Tournament of Champions, Bank Center. men’s and women’s basketball, high school gymnastics and twirling competitions, The First United Bank Center is located basketball tournaments and playoff games) banquets and craft and trade shows. on the university campus at the corner of and a number of other functions (lectures, The 77,000 square-foot facility seats Russell Long Blvd., and Fourth Avenue. band concerts and Ag shows). approximately 4,800 visitors for sporting Tickets for athletic events can be purchased The First United Bank Center has since events with a capacity of 5,800 for in the First United Bank Center box office on met that need, serving as the home court for commencement and concerts. Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. the WTAMU Buffs and Lady Buffs basketball The First United Bank Center has hosted Those interested in tickets may also call WT games and as the venue for the university’s many famous entertainers – Robert Herjavec Athletic Ticket Coordinator Brittany Gehle convocation and commencement ceremonies (Shark Tank) and Kellie Pickler - throughout at (806) 651-1414 or purchase tickets online at in May, August and December. the year, as well as Texas Country musicians www.gobuffsgo.com.

42 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 school, the offerings for students are diverse. through accounting, economic and finance WT’s Sybil B. Harrington College of fine to computer information, management arts and humanities offers music, theatre, and marketing. The college of nursing and WTAMU dance, communications, history, English and health sciences turns out graduates prepared ne of the benefits of living in philosophy and the office of general majors. for careers in nursing, communications Canyon is the diversity the With outstanding bands, choirs and theatre disorders and sports and exercise sciences. West Texas A&M University productions, all fields offer solid theory and Of course, university life would be brings to the community. practice in their respective fields. sorely lacking if it only covered academics. The campus was recently The college of agriculture, science and Life at WT is well-balanced with athletics, recognized as the No. 1 most beautiful engineering also includes mathematics, social clubs, academic clubs, faith- Ocampus in America at a college that is computer science, life sciences, chemistry based organizations and activities and still affordable. For several years, WT and physics, and life environmental international organizations. Want to has been on “Best in the West” and “Best sciences. The college of education, which handle a real life American Bison? Join Small Colleges in the U.S.” lists. WT attracts also includes political science, criminal the Herdsmen. Want to improve your students from around the globe and justice, psychology, sociology and social marksmanship? Join the rifle club. There are challenges them with cutting edge research work, turns out high-quality teachers who intercollegiate and intramural sports and in a variety of fields, as well as offering are greatly sought by school districts, not for those who want to be fans, the Maroon relationships with faculty and other students only across the Panhandle, but around the Platoon takes fandom to a frantic new level. that will last a lifetime. state. The college of business covers the That’s just the briefest glimpse of life With five academic colleges and a graduate spectrum of instruction from pre-business at WTAMU.

Sharp joined local elected officials, intensive animal production and all of the TEXAS-SIZED including state Rep. John Smithee, to break work and careers that go along with that.” ground on the new Veterinary Education, Adjacent to the VERO facility, the TVMDL Research & Outreach (VERO) facility, as facility, budgeted at $17.6 million, will feature LIVESTOCK well as the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical all the latest technology to provide the best Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL). in diagnostic capabilities. The 11,233 square PROGRAM The VERO facility will serve as a learning foot building will house labs for bacteriology, space to supplement externship programs pathology, serology and virology as well in rural Texas. The more than 22,000 square as spaces for receiving and processing and TAKING SHAPE foot facility, budgeted at $22 million, will be a necropsy and support. regional veterinary teaching center that will “These new state-of-the-art facilities create facilitate collaborative, multidisciplinary a highway of research activity from WTAMU AT WTAMU research among scientists from across to TAMU that supports animal health in this the region. region,” Dr. Walter Wendler, president of BY RANA MCDONALD Dr. Paul Morley will serve as the director WTAMU, said. WEST TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY of research at the VERO facility, Sharp “This partnership brings together the announced. “Dr. Morley is one of the best- System’s universities to extend their he Texas A&M University respected large animal veterinarians reach and address Texas’ large animal System’s effort to build the in the world,” Sharp said. “His presence veterinary needs.” strongest livestock program in brings instant prestige to the VERO The TVMDL building will be named the nation moved three-steps facility’s efforts.” the Charles W. Graham, DVM Texas forward as officials broke A Nevada native, Morley is accustomed A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic ground on two new facilities and announced to raising cattle and earned a bachelor’s Laboratory after Dr. Graham, a Texas A&M Tthe hiring of one of the top large animal degree in animal science and a Doctor of Distinguished Alumnus and one of Texas’ veterinarians in the world at West Texas Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from most renowned equine veterinarians. A&M University. Washington State University. He specializes Graham’s veterinary practice led to the “The ground breakings are the culmination in epidemiology and has been a professor establishment of Southwest Stallion Station, a of our $90 million investment in the future at Colorado State University for the past horse-breeding business responsible for the of large animal health in the Panhandle,” 20 years. nation’s most famous quarter horses. He is John Sharp, chancellor of The Texas A&M “I’m really looking forward to showing the only person to serve as president of both University System, said. “This investment all levels of students how exciting research the Texas Quarter Horse Association and the - and the buildings we are breaking ground can be and how important it is for the future Texas Thoroughbred Breeders Association. on here - ensure The Texas A&M University of agriculture and the future of veterinary In addition to the equine industry, he is System continues to not only meet but exceed medicine,” Morley said. recognized as a successful cattleman and the needs of this region and the state in “The Panhandle is one of the true jewels founder of Graham Land and Cattle Company, the future.” in the world, in regard to opportunities for specializing in Braham-influenced cattle.

CanyonNews.com 43 CANYON FARMERS MARKET

BY NOLA HOPKINS he Canyon Farmers’ Market is an annual summer event. Thirty five to 40 vendors set up their stalls on the south side of the downtown square at Fifth Avenue and 15th Street each Saturday from T8 a.m. until noon. This will be the sixth summer the market has run. “It’s a lot of good produce and food, and they (the customers) are getting to support their local friends and families and business,” Canyon Farmers’ Market president Justin Trammell said. “The produce is much better quality than they would get at the stores.” Shoppers can find such home-grown items as squash, melons, tomatoes, honey, goat cheese and corn. They will also find homemade crafts, canned goods, live music and a bouncy house for the children. Meats will include grass-fed beef, chicken, lamb, goat and sausage. Food trucks also show up on some Saturdays. Buyers can become familiar with their favorite vendors because the vendors rent their spaces the entire summer. They pay $100 for the summer if they sign up before the opening date of June 29. After that they will pay $125. The market will run until September 28. This will be the fourth year that Creek House Honey Farm, a new brick-and- mortar business east of Canyon, has set up a booth at the market. “It has been a great experience for us,” owner Paige Nester said. “We see people that we don’t normally see come by the store. There are a lot of tourists and WT parents that come to the square. We are tapping into a totally different market.” To spotlight a variety of locally grown meats, fruits and vegetables, local culinary experts will prepare dishes using them at the annual Farm-to-Table event on the historic Randall County Courthouse lawn Sept.21. Canyon Farmers’ Market mission is to “support local growers, artisans, and bakers by connecting community and producers through commerce and education.” To purchase dinner tickets or rent a vendor’s space, call Justin Trammell at (806) 567-0746.

44 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY HUGE IN RANDALL COUNTY

BY NOLA HOPKINS for many of us,” Lehman said. “During the is the egg-to-chick program in which he he Randall County Extension stay at home order, area agents offered a provides small incubators, fertilized eggs Service is the best kept secret in Mental Wellness online series that focused from Honey’s Farm Fresh Eggs and lesson Canyon, according to Texas A&M on equipping healthy adults with skills to plans to teach the life cycle. AgriLife Extension Service agent strengthen the mind and body connection. Teachers K-5th grade sign up for one of Dr. J.D. Ragland. The goal of the online mindful wellness the three five-week sessions. Approximately “A lot of people don’t know us,” Ragland series is to provide participants with skills 1,700 students participate annually. Tsaid. “If they do know us, they don’t know and practices that can be easily adopted and In the fall Walsh and Yolanda Delaney, how many areas we cover (of service).” applied as we endure this pandemic and Canyon ISD director of elementary All 254 Texas counties have at least one beyond. Mindful wellness is an important education, coordinate the Canyon extension agent; Randall County has six. The lifelong practice.” Independent School District Fourth Grade counties are under the umbrella of the Texas Another program Leham offered during Agricultural Science Fair. The event is at the A&M University System. the height of COVID-19 to promote mental Randall County Happy State Bank Center, The size of the county and its needs dictate health was Walking Across Randall County. and its purpose is to teach students about the number of agents. Their common goal “ ‘Social Distancing’ does not mean we Panhandle agriculture and livestock. is to provide research-based education, cannot still be active!” Leham said. “The Each student receives a journal and information and programs to serve the program’s focus was to reduce stress and writes answers in it from questions asked needs of their local county, according establish the habit of regular physical at each of the five 20-minute presentations. to Ragland. activity while learning new health and Teachers can then have students refer to Ragland is Randall County’s agricultural wellness tips and tricks. Over eight weeks 30 their journals as they cover TEKS-related and natural resources agent. He works with participants walked 4,647 miles.” subjects during the school year. For example, farmers and ranchers to educate them about Tina Hicks is the 4-H and youth at the horse presentation, students learned the best herbicides, varieties of seeds and development agent. She oversees the the difference between the horse’s learned insecticides for their particular situations. 10 4-H clubs in Randall County which behavior and its inherited traits. Additionally, he is an advisor to the involves working with the adult leaders and “It’s a fun day for the kids, and they Randall County Master Gardeners. developing programs in youth food, clothing, are learning,” Walsh said. “A great way to Ragland is also in charge of 4-H youth horsemanship and leadership. educate the kids is for them not to even livestock programs. Approximately 200 The clubs participate in the statewide One know they are learning. They think they are youth participate in the Randall County Day 4-H service project each October. just having fun, and you are sneaking the Youth Livestock Show each January. If their Projects over the past 11 years have learning in.” animals place in the top 75 percent of their included making dog beds and toys for an Randall County Farm Bureau and Xcel class, they are eligible for the premium animal shelter, preparing freezer meals for a Energy help sponsor the event so there is no sale. Of those, 60 to 70 percent continue family with a mother with cancer, collecting cost to CISD. competing in livestock shows at the regional books for Story Bridge, taking cookies to “This community is so generous,” and state levels to vie for up to thousands the fire department and cleaning stalls for a Walsh said. of dollars. horse rescue shelter. Mary Stephens leads the extended He teaches the students how to work with Last year, they collected 70 coats and learning day program. A retired teacher, their animals to make them ready for the donated them to Freedom House for its Stephens has developed her own curriculum exhibition ring. annual coat giveaway. They also conducted of short, hands-on lessons for CISD after- Kelli Leham is the family and community a food drive for Freedom House which helps school programs. The lessons cover subjects health agent. CISD families in need. students would learn about in 4-H. “My role is to help Texans better their Erin Jones-Gray’s position as horticultural Last year her 30-45 minute lessons were lives through science-based educational agent is two-fold: she provides the county an introduction to energy conservation. This programs designed to improve the overall with horticultural information as well as year she plans to focus on environmental health of individuals, families and the teaching plant science classes at West Texas conservation. She will show students community,” Leham said. A&M University. different things they can do with plants such Programs are carried out through She focuses on water conservation in as pressed flower creations and hand-made volunteer groups, community partners and landscapes and flowers by choosing water- paper. Stephens is a Randall County Master collaborations. wise plants and by using drip systems. She Gardeners member. One of her focus areas is general nutrition also teaches how to use native plants that Stephens emphasizes teamwork, and chronic disease prevention. Her 2020 don’t need pesticides. She has developed communication with each other and focus includes mental health and wellness, the Palo Duro Bee Club in partnership with leadership in her lessons. All are designed to food protection management and healthy Creek House Honey Farms to teach bee- encourage 4-H membership. food choices with limited resources. keeping methods. She presents her lessons at Reeves- Programs are usually face-to-face, As urban programs coordinator, Shannon Hinger, Crestview, Lakeview and City View but Leham didn’t let that stop her Walsh develops educational programs elementary schools bi-weekly. during COVID-19. and curriculum for both the Canyon and The Randall County Extension Service has “COVID-19 added a new level of adversity Amarillo school districts. One such project something for everyone.

CanyonNews.com 45 46 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 Western store out of business, according to www.RoadsideAmerica.com. Panhandle winds shredded the cowboys’ canvas duds. A semi-truck crashed into his left boot, and the cigarette was shot out of his right hand, the web site stated. In 1987, many local entities rallied for a “Save the Cowboy” campaign. The no-longer- fashionable cigarette was replaced with a spur. The cowboy was given a new face with a mustache, a new set of painted-on clothes and a new name – Tex Randall – in honor of his home in Randall County. Later on, Canyon Main Street Director Evelyn Ecker began the ‘Tex Randall Project’ after Texas Panhandle winds ravaged Tex Randall once again. Ecker said a special steering committee was formed in 2010 for Tex Randall’s renovation. The committee raised funds for the project, as well as helped to make the decisions involved with the work. The renovation project was completed in late 2016, and the new statue was brought back to life. “The overall project cost, statue renovation and site re-development is $400,000,” Ecker said. “The project is being funded by corporations, local businesses, civic clubs, grants and private citizens.” Canyon Main Street plans to honor the “Panhandle icon” with a travel center complete with an information kiosk to tell his story. Ecker said that Canyon Main Street, a non-profit organization, owns Tex Randall and the land where he is located. According to program’s web site, Canyon Main Street hopes to help and improve the community “through the enhancement and promotion of historic preservation, restoration, business vitality, tourism, cultural and arts awareness.” The Canyon Main Street Program also hopes to revive Tex Randall so that he may be enjoyed by generations to come. TEX RANDALL “The project has a positive impact on hen travelers make their voice activated machine tells the history of Canyon,” Ecker said. “The statue is restored, way into Canyon, one Tex Randall. the site is being developed and the area man stands tall and proud The statue, built by William “Harry” serves as a welcoming point to visitors with a well-worn smile, Wheeler, a Canyon High School shop teacher coming from the west.” ready to greet in the place in the 1950s, is made of cement and steel and Now that the restoration of the statue he has resided since 1959. originally resided at Wheeler’s Western and the landscaping of Tex Randall’s WTex Randall, the 47-foot, 7-ton cowboy Store on U.S. Hwy 60. The store, which was surrounding area has been completed, it is statue on U.S. Highway 60 next to El Patio not owned by William “Harry” Wheeler, sold Canyon Main Street’s goal to maintain the Mexican Restaurant, has been totally Western clothing, so the 7-ton statue was area and preserve Tex Randall. restored. Canyon Main Street, along with outfitted with a bandana, a real Western- The need for community support and numerous other donors from Canyon and style shirt and a lengthy pair of Levi jeans. donations will always exist, in order to keep the Texas Panhandle, has raised funds to help Decades passed and the Texas Department Tex Randall in good condition. If you have preserve Tex Randall. The statue resides of Transportation re-routed U.S. Hwy 60 any interest in making a donation to Help inside a park where donor bricks decorate through an underpass, thus cutting off Preserve Tex Randall, please contact the the area, as well as colorful landscape and a Wheeler’s drive-by traffic and driving the Canyon Main Street office at (806) 656-6833.

CanyonNews.com 47 CANYON AQUA PARK

he Canyon Aqua Park, located in Conner Park next to Lois Rice Pavilion, will open its third summer season in late May. The CAP offers a lazy river, two speed slides, a splash pad, a children’s play Tarea with a spill bucket and playground, and a multi-purpose pool with diving boards and a basketball goal. The six-lane lap pool ranges from 4 ½ feet 12-feet deep with the water lapping over the top of the pool’s edge. The facility also features an expanded concession stand menu and a CAP radio station for entertainment and summer enjoyment. “I think, first and foremost, the CAP is a great place for entertainment,” said CAP Manager Andrew Neighbors. “It’s $8 to get in, and if you think of it, taking your family to the movies is going to cost you the same price or more, and the food (at the movies) is very expensive, and you’re entertained for an hour and a half and you’re sitting down. bond election that For the same price, a little cheaper, you can provided the funds to go to the water park with all those things build the CAP. that I just described, this amazing avenue of “They (the Canyon entertainment and activity for kids, and you Swim Team) were can spend three or four hours, or even the supporters, that whole six (hours) if you can make it.” group was, and With capacity for the CAP set at we use them as a approximately 650 people, City of Canyon sounding board and Assistant City Manager for Special Projects even grew that lap Jon Behrens said in 2017 that the city pool because they anticipates that 800 to 850 guests will visit said they needed six the facility each day. lanes instead of four, “I just think we will really have a first- so we listened to them class facility, and that’s how we’re trying to and listened to that run it – as a first-class place,” Behrens said. and started watching “As a place where we do all the extras and there specifically for we do the right thing to make it work for them,” Behrens said. everybody that’s coming.” “Now that we’ve Behrens said that the CAP also offers done those things, renting opportunities for birthday we want to make parties and church events throughout the sure that we find summer season. opportunities “In 2017, we worked through the Amarillo for them to take Special Olympics, and they are pushing it advantage and grow their program.” passes on the CAP website under the City of out to just all the various organizations that Also in 2017, the CAP welcomed United Canyon page. Swim lesson registration is also are involved with special needs kids, so that States Olympian Josh Davis for a one-day available on the CAP website with lessons took place for two nights in July and August,” swim clinic at the CAP. The clinic had beginning in June. Behrens said. approximately 100 swimmers participate and The CAP will be open Monday through The CAP also works with the Canyon Swim meet Davis. Friday from noon to 6 p.m., Saturday from Team for its stroke clinic that is offered Admission to the CAP is $8 with free noon to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 7 each summer. Behrens said that the city admission for children ages three and under, p.m. The facility will have regular hours appreciated the swim team’s help during the and the community can purchase season through Aug. 14.

48 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 CanyonNews.com 49 MUSICALTEXAS DRAMA

un, family entertainment, that’s expanded their reach what people have come to expect to extend to a large from the musical drama “TEXAS.” number of folks in The Pioneer Amphitheatre is the area. Not content carved out of and nestled into to sit and wait, the a natural basin in the majestic Palo Duro foundation staged FCanyon State Park – the nation’s second a sound and light largest canyon. show in the theater “TEXAS” was born in 1960 when Margaret in the summer of Harper read an article in Reader’s Digest 1965. Bill Rhew and about a playwright and author named Paul Joe Batson designed a Green. Green had recreated the history technical installation of several regions about the nation in and produced a tremendous dramas with pageantry and show to demonstrate music. Harper wrote to Green at his home dynamics provided in North Carolina and began corresponding within the setting with him about the land, people, and beauty of the Palo Duro of Palo Duro Canyon. As she reached out to Canyon. Interest friends and colleagues in Canyon, interest and momentum in the prospect of an outdoor theater began increased as “TEXAS” to grow, and soon a small group of Canyon opened on the stage families funded the first trip for Paul Green of the Pioneer to come to the Panhandle later that year. Amphitheatre in the According to those in attendance at that summer of 1966. The first meeting, Green immediately dedicated Texas Panhandle himself to the project of bringing the history Heritage Foundation of the High Plains to the stage. The support is organized as a organization expanded to include Amarillo nonprofit organization and is governed by In this family-friendly show, set against and all the surrounding area. The initial an all-volunteer board of directors who give an authentic tapestry of history, the fictional fundraising effort in 1961 was followed of their time, energy, money and expertise characters bring to life the stories, struggles quickly by a more aggressive campaign in for the benefit of this effort. Families and and triumphs of the settlers of the Texas 1962. These early efforts to raise capital individuals across the Panhandle and the Panhandle in the 1800s. Song and dance and generate resources were chaired by nation give generously to help make this abound-and a generous helping of good ol’ Mary Miles Batson, herself a descendant great educational and historical project a Texas humor too-with spellbinding lighting, of a pioneer Panhandle cattle and ranching reality each season. special fire and water effects, including family. Together these energetic and A lone horseman, carrying the flag of the the Dancing Waters of “TEXAS.” Nightly visionary people of the plains organized the great state of Texas appears atop a 600-foot fireworks highlight the Grand Finale Texas Panhandle Heritage Foundation. cliff, signaling the beginning of the most (weather conditions permitting). The show benefited in the early years from spectacular outdoor musical drama in the Dave Yirak, who has worked with the support of people like Pete and Wanda world. With a moving swell of the music, the “TEXAS” for 20 years, is in his 13th year as Gilvin. Known throughout the state, Gilvin horseman gallops away. Suddenly, a cast of artistic director. served on the Texas Parks and Wildlife more than 60 actors, singers and dancers “TEXAS” has been seen by an estimated Commission. His stature in the halls of takes the stage to kick off the show that 4 million people. It made the American Bus government, alongside his commitment millions of fans from all around the world Association’s list of “Top 100 Attractions in to the show, provided a clear path to the have come to see. Only a state as big as Texas North America,” and USA Today’s “Top 10 initial construction of the theater. As Green could host a show as big as “TEXAS.” Must See Theaters in America.” continued to travel to the Panhandle and The year, 2015, marked the 50th For ticket information, call the box conduct his research, the volunteers of anniversary season of the “Official Play of office at (806) 655-2181 or go online to the Texas Panhandle Heritage Foundation the State of Texas.” www.texas-show.com.

50 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 CANYON OFFERS VARIOUS HEALTHCARE OPTIONS

BY NOLA HOPKINS offer an in-house xcellent health care has always membership for been a priority in Canyon. a set monthly Local doctors in the early 1900s price point that is made house calls in their horse- especially helpful drawn buggies. Sometimes they for our patients with even got lost in snowstorms trying to attend chronic illnesses Eto their patients. that may require In 1937 Dr. Robert A. Neblett announced he multiple visits and would build the Neblett Hospital and Clinic. lab work throughout The 16-room, 6-bed hospital included private the year. Part of a rooms, operating and delivery rooms and an patient’s sense of office. It had the latest medical equipment well- being is affected and air conditioning, a novelty at the time. by the impression The community helped fund many items for they receive when the hospital. they first walk An historical marker now stands at Sixth through our doors. Avenue and 16th Street where the former Enthusiasm and clinic stood. The clinic closed in 1975. compassion can go Palo Duro Hospital opened soon after a long way to make and offered full medical services, including someone feel good delivering babies. It closed in 1997. about who they Today, Canyon’s medical needs are choose as their healthcare team. We always nose and throat, orthopedic surgery and taken care of by a number of facilities want our attitude and environment to be sports medicine and urgent care for non- and practices. both welcoming and comforting. We want emergency treatment. Family Medicine Center of Canyon, at everyone to know in our Texas Panhandle In addition to medical clinics, Canyon also 911 23rd Street, is a full-service clinic with community and has a number of specialty practices. in-house x-rays and lab tests. It is part of beyond, whether they are in need of quick, Dental practices include Kenneth a network of care providers in Canyon convenient appointment for that cough or Crossland DDS, Dental Group of Canyon, and Amarillo with more than 100 health cold, or in need of establishing a long term Full Smile Dental, Palo Duro Dental, care providers. healthcare relationship for their entire Folger Vallette DDS, and Brian Wilson Care Xpress, located next door, provides family, we offer both ends of the spectrum DDS. Canyon’s two orthodontics offices are urgent care from 8 a.m. to midnight. Patients at an affordable price and in a personal, Harwell & Cook Orthodontics and Hodges & may walk in or check in online. friendly atmosphere. “ Hodges Orthodontics. Faith Medical Clinic opened at 1619 Fourth Services include alcohol breathalyzer, Chiropractic services are provided by Avenue in June of 2014. hormone therapy, influenza, meningitis Canyon Chiropractic, Kershen Health “ ‘The mission of Faith Medical Clinic is to and TDAP immunizations, regulated drug Services and Raef Chiropractic & Wellness. be God’s hands and feet....’ This is the first screening tests, TB screenings and weight Dermatologists are Palo Duro line of Faith Medical Clinic’s (FMC) Mission loss consultation. Spanish and English Dermatology and Canyon Dermatology and Statement, and is at the core of what we aim are spoken. Skin Cancer Center. to do every day, and that includes doing for Northwest Texas Physician Group is Advanced Eye Care takes care of Canyon’s our patients what we would want done for the newest clinic in Canyon. It opened optometry needs. ourselves or our family and friends when in 2017 At 301 N. 23rd Street (near Those needing physical therapy have three they seek healthcare,” Flavio Cardenas, United Supermarkets). options: Canyon Physical Therapy, Jennifer occupational health manager, said. “It is The clinic is part of Northwest Texas M. Winfrey, PT and Katherine S. Rogers, PT. never convenient to be sick, and so we strive Physician Group, a network of 40 healthcare Canyon offers three pharmacies: Medi- to take away some of that inconvenience providers serving patients in eight locations Drive, Walmart and United Supermarkets. by being available without the patient first throughout the Texas panhandle. It is Canyon also has three assisted living having to call and make an appointment. affiliated with Northwest Texas Healthcare facilities: Conner House, Hudson House and In addition, we work diligently to provide System, an Amarillo acute-care hospital. SkyWest Assisted Living Center. care that is affordable to everyone, whether Its services include family medicine As Canyon’s population has grown, so has they have insurance or not. We telehealth, palliative and hospice care, ear, its range of medical providers.

CanyonNews.com 51 52 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 PALO DURO RETIREMENT VILLAGE BY NOLA HOPKINS is provided to doctors’ appointments and social if you choose, but you can be entirely f people are bored or United Supermarkets. An on-site beauty private, too.” unhappy, it’s their own fault; shop is available. Maintenance will change Cathey does yoga every morning at home there are so many things to light bulbs and filters. and then walks around the United Bank do, and yet, you don’t have High-speed internet, basic cable, monthly Center Parking lot behind her home. She to do anything you don’t housekeeping, water and gas are included said the Village’s location is a “real plus” want to,” Palo Duro Village resident Pattye in the monthly operating fee. The Village because it is walking distance to the West “IHopkins said. Hopkins, 94, is one of 94 owns the kitchen appliances and replaces Texas A&M campus. She often attends residents at the independent living facility. them when necessary (unless residents have theatrical productions and concerts there. She rents a one-bedroom apartment, but brought their own). WTAMU President Dr. Walter Wendler some of the others own their apartments or Because residents’ safety is important, keeps residents informed of campus plans. garden homes. She moved into the Village the front doors are locked by 9 p.m. A “It’s a joy to live here,” Cathey said. in 2014. receptionist is on duty 24/7 to allow late- Located at 9 Hospital Drive, the Village “I love it,” she said. “I have made so many nighters to return. Each apartment has an is near the WT campus with its fine arts friends. I haven’t found anything I dislike emergency call system. center, library and sporting events. The about it.” She and her husband owned a Laundry facilities are available on each campus has recently been named the safest Pampa flower shop for 38 years. floor, as well as 3 ½’ x 6’ storage units coming campus in Texas and among the 10 safest in “Having lived here 14 years, I find with each apartment, and garages and the country. Palo Duro Village a wonderful place to carports can be rented. If residents need “I have never felt any danger on campus,” live,” Bobby Speer, 98, said. “It’s such a an extra bedroom for visiting family, they Cathey said. comfortable, friendly and quiet place. I can rent one of two available. Don and Virginia Johnston have owned have enjoyed the activities that we have Residents and their guests can enjoy their garden home for the past three years such as birthday parties, pot lucks, and fishing or just relaxing on benches at the of their 66 years of marriage. They owned just visiting.” Speers is a retired fifth grade small lake. Canadian geese call it home Johnston’s Hardware before selling it to teacher. for much of the year and often raise their their son and retiring. Other activities include bingo games, goslings there. “We just felt that we would be happier seasonal activities, exercise classes and Property owners are permitted to have in one of the garden homes than one of the Bible studies. Coffee and donuts are ready in small, quiet pets such as dogs, cats and birds. apartments,” she said. “We have been very the dining room every morning. Although Renters must obtain permission from their pleased with it. The size of the home is great official coffee time is 7-9 a.m. Hopkins landlords to have pets. for us, plenty of room. My husband thinks and several other early-risers meet at 6 Executive Director Deborah Brantley and the price of the house is worth it for the front a.m. to drink coffee, visit and settle the her husband Bill hosted a birthday party porch. He enjoys sitting out there so much.” world’s problems. for their Maltese Bailey’s first birthday He has time to sit because he doesn’t have Apartment residents can decorate the two years ago, complete with party favors to spend time mowing his lawn: that service area outside their doors. Many change and doggie treats for the 13 canines and is provided. However, they do plant and their decorations seasonally. Some have refreshments for the 30 humans attending. care for their own flowers. Each lawn has an cherished pieces of furniture on display. The Brantleys have lived in the Village automatic sprinkler system. Lila Thayer displays her husband Albert’s since 2005. She was Village administrative They don’t do windows, either. That is also Navy memorabilia from the Viet Nam assistant for nearly 30 years and became done for them. war. The Thayers moved here four years director in December of 2017. The Village The Johnstons, as well as the other garden ago from Liberal, Kan. He retired from is governed by a nine-member board home owners, have the same privileges Panhandle Eastern Pipeline, and she is a of trustees. as the apartment residents. They can retired elementary school teacher. After he Garden home buyers can choose from participate in all of the Village’s activities. passed away in 2018, “The people here were seven floor plans. They select everything Because Don is a WWII veteran, he is fantastic. Everybody was so supportive. It about the home such as flooring, cabinets, recognized with the other veterans at the definitely made me feel like I am where I am doorknobs, doors, windows and brick Village’s Veterans’ Day ceremony each year. supposed to be,” she said. color. They also select their kitchen “You are not sure when you make a big The teacher in Thayer still comes out appliances. Garden homes sit behind the change how it will work out,” Virginia said. as she serves on the activities committee. apartment complex. “We very frequently tell each other that we When residents were unable to attend “You have chosen it; it’s yours,” Mary are glad we did this. It was the right decision social events during the pandemic, she Ann Cathey said of her garden home. “That for us. That’s for sure.” printed crossword puzzles, word finds and makes garden homes special.” Palo Duro Village consists of 67 scrambled word puzzles and attached them She moved into her new garden home apartments and 15 garden homes. Two to residents’ doors. three years ago after living in Canyon since garden homes are under construction, The Village accommodates seniors 55 the early 1970s. leaving only six lots for purchase. and older. Amenities abound. Residents can “I think it’s about the best move I have Anyone interested in moving to the purchase lunches that are delivered from made since I have lived in Canyon,” she Village should call 806-655-1712 to arrange a United Supermarkets daily. Transportation said. “I have moved five times. You can be tour of the property.

CanyonNews.com 53 54 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 MIDWAY ALTERNATIVE PROVIDES STUDENTS WITH CAREER-MINDED OPPORTUNITIES

BY TIM RITTER hrough the doors every Monday through Friday, Midway Alternative High School educators watch students achieve academic excellence and see dreams come true. TThese young minds go on to become mechanics, social workers and even future educators or business leaders. It’s through the lessons taught each day inside the Midway Alternative High School classrooms that these students are seeing their successes rewarded in more ways than one. In May 2018, Canyon Independent School District officials provided a new ‘state-of- the-art’ building for the future students of Midway Alternative High School. The 16,371 square-foot building located in south Canyon on 23rd Street and 14th Avenue will include 12 classrooms - including a a portable setting, you’re not able to do that. full science lab, two levels with an elevator, “In addition to that, we will have technology collaboration area and future a designated office area, as well as home of iConnect, a Community Banquet counseling space. Hall for 100 seats, a student technology “Also, a year from now, kids will attend charging area, increased DAEP classroom CTE classes, such as manufacturing, space, a faculty workroom and a cafeteria/ cosmotology, culinary arts, health sciences commons area. and other technology/networking classes.” Students will attend classes inside the new Flusche said that the transition of the building starting in August. old Midway campus into the new Canyon “The new Midway building allows room facility will allow the nine existing portable for expansion so we can accommodate our buildings to be used at Westover Park Junior growth in all of our programs, including High, Randall High School and throughout Midway Alternative High School,” said Contained within those nine buildings the school district. Canyon ISD Superintendent Dr. Darryl were six classrooms, a counseling center, “Instead of buying new portables and Flusche. “We wanted the facility certainly elementary and secondary DAEP, an all- using taxpayer dollars, we’re using the to be nice and we wanted it to come in at a purpose room and administrative offices. portables that we already have because of reasonable cost.” According to information presented this renovations timing,” Flusche said. Flusche added, “These renovations and the during a meet and greet event held at the new During the first six years of Midway opportunities that kids have truly creates location in Canyon, Midway Alternative High Alternative High School, students completed more space so that we can almost double the School began with a single student and has their required course work and graduated program that we serve today. grown each year with a current enrollment from their previous home campus located “Kids will be coming in August and our of 70 students. on Bell Street between Rockwell Road and staff is extremely excited about the facility, The new facility in Canyon will allow McCormick Road. just the amenities that are here and just the Midway Alternative High School to grow to In December 2016, Midway Alternative opportunity that these kids are going to have 150 students. High School held its first commencement just being in this facility.” When asked about the new amenities exercise with 23 graduating seniors. In 2009, Midway Alternative High School inside the Canyon facility, Flusche said, “This To date, over 400 at-risk students have began with a consolidation of nine portable building will have its own cafeteria. Kids can completed their graduation requirements buildings located on 10 acres between go through serving lines, sit down and eat, as and/or graduated through Midway Randall High School and Canyon High School. they would in typical schools. When you’re in Alternative High School.

CanyonNews.com 55 HISTORIC BUILDINGS DEFINE CANYON’S SQUARE

BY NOLA HOPKINS has been named “America’s Best Coffee Denmark when they anyon’s downtown square is a House” by DaVinci Gourmet, a Seattle-based emigrated hung in treasure of historical buildings. coffee products company. Its brick walls, the store’s china and The centerpiece is the 1909 high ceilings, casual seating and outdoor gift department for Randall County Courthouse. tables make it a favorite Canyon hang-out for years, but now hangs With its Renaissance Revival people of all ages. in a great-grandson’s design, it sits on well-manicured lawns The Lyons Realty building was originally Dallas home. Melissa Cwith flower beds attended to by the Randall the Canyon National Bank. It housed several Wright found a similar County Master Gardener Association. Its different banks until 1934. In 1939 it became one online that now exterior was restored with the removal of the home of city hall until the current city hangs in the center of two attached annexes in 2010. hall was built in the 1970s. the store. Although no government business occurs Next door is Thompson’s Gift Store. T. C. The building on the in the approximately 20,000 sq. ft. building Thompson opened Thompson’s Hardware northwest corner of now, it’s still the center of Canyon activities. Co. there in 1908. The date is laid out in the the square began as the Summer concerts and movies, autumn pet floor tiles inside the front door. Although the First National Bank. parades, and winter Santa visits all happen store’s purpose and inventory have changed The bank originated on the building’s lawn. during the past 100-plus years, the name as the Stockman’s And that doesn’t count the many events Thompson has been retained. National Bank Jan. throughout the year that happen around The business’ 1929 letterhead declared that 5, 1900 in a wooden the square with the courthouse rising above it was “Dealers in Shelf and Heavy Hardware, structure with a the activities. Furniture, Rugs and Floor Coverings, hitching post. Founder Unlike the inoperable clock tower in the Undertaking, Implements of All Kinds, L.T. Lester changed the movie Back to the Future, Canyon’s clock Windmills, Pumps and Harness, Saddles, bank’s name to First tower has been rebuilt and the clock chimes Ranges, etc.” National Bank and built out on the hour and every quarter hour as Thankfully, the “undertaking” part of the Canyon’s first brick well as playing patriotic tunes for the Fourth business was a partnership that was actually building to house it in of July and Christmas carols. The original conducted in the building that is now Brooks 1904 at 1600 Fifth Ave. tower was removed during World War II due Funeral Directors on Fifth Avenue. But after the new to structural issues and not rebuilt until the The implements were probably manual courthouse replaced 2010 restoration of the courthouse. or horse-drawn until mechanized farm the wooden one in the The two oldest surviving buildings on machinery was developed. center of the square in 1909, Lester hired the the square sit on the opposite sides of the Current owners Melissa and Jason same architect to design the more imposing square: the building that houses the Palace Wright advertise the business simply as building in its prominent location on the Coffee Shop on the southwest corner and “Thompson’s Gift Shop – Bridal, Baby, Décor.” square. The Randall County Story described the building that houses Lyons Realty on the Long-gone are the days of rugs, windmills it as “one of the most magnificent buildings of northeast corner. Both were built in 1906, the and saddles, but much of the original 1908 the Southwest.” same year Canyon was incorporated. details have been saved in the 3,500 square- The building was actually two buildings The Palace building was built by J. Frank foot building. The tin ceilings have been with a wall separating the bank side and the Smith who operated a land company on the painted red to accentuate their detail. The mercantile side with professional offices second floor. The Canyon Mercantile and hardware cabinets have a coat of black paint. and apartments upstairs. The sides were Hardware Store occupied the first floor. The Old carpet and vinyl were ripped from the separately owned. Palace Hotel opened in 1912 and remained original wood floors so they could be sanded The bank was robbed in January of 1931. open until 1960. A café also operated on the and stained. The bank’s assistant cashier and his wife were first floor. A large crystal chandelier that T.C. awakened in their bedroom by two men who Palace Coffee Shop, the current occupant, Thompson’s parents had brought from planned to rob the bank. The men blindfolded

56 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 and gagged the couple and drove them to the ground floor was useable, the second story Johnston bought the business in 1976. At the bank where they used the employee’s keys to was in extreme disrepair: the roof leaked and time it was Warren’s, a department store. As unlock the front door. They tied the couple to the ceilings were falling in. Root and his wife they removed that name from the front of the chairs and eventually made off with nearly Wanda spent 15-20 years cleaning, repairing building, they discovered yet another name, $14,000. They were never arrested, so the and modernizing that floor. The People’s Store, a general store, painted robbery is Canyon’s unsolved crime. The ground floor now houses Town Square on the bricks under it. After the bank moved to another Frame and Art in the former bank side The building was built in the early 1920s. location in 1950, the buildings saw many and Raef Chiropractic and Wellness in the It still retains the 12 ft. high tin ceiling. It also different tenants including a Western Auto commercial side. The dual building has 17 houses another piece of Canyon history: a store, attorney and insurance offices and tenants with the capacity to hold 20 tenants. picture of a Canyon “work day” taken July eventually a workshop for the high school Root has established his own “Root Cellar” 30, 1913. It shows people with their horses, shop class. At one point, the upstairs became in the basement with items reflecting Canyon wagons and pitchforks ready to work. The a “haunted house” for Halloween. and Randall County history. courthouse is behind them. Lifetime Canyon resident Harold Root Johnstons’ Hardware sits in the middle of That’s just seven of the Canyon bought both buildings in 1985. While the the west side of the square. Don and Virginia square’s treasures.

CanyonNews.com 57 PANHANDLE-PLAINS HISTORICAL MUSEUM

ith the pride of the historical eras and walks of life. The museum features American Panhandle on display for The PPHM brings a fond sense of nostalgia and European art including the work all to see, the Panhandle- with its displays showing the history of of distinguished Southwest artist C.F. Plains Historical industries and people vital to the region’s (Frank) Reaugh and painter and muralist Museum offers visitors success with exhibits showing the rise Harold D. Bugbee. a taste of the region’s history and provides of the cattle business and celebrating the The PPHM Research Center, a library and nativesW with a sense of home. pioneer spirit. archive, houses newspapers, photographs, The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, People may tour an interactive pioneer manuscripts and government papers. On the which has been called the “Smithsonian town and step foot inside replicas of museum website, PPHM welcomes the public with a Texas accent,” is the largest history buildings such as a one-room schoolhouse, to “take advantage of the information found museum in the state with over two a church, a blacksmith shop and hotel in these unique sources.” million artifacts. from the early 20th century. An exhibit In addition to rotating exhibits, Visitors can explore the 26,000 square showing the history of the Plains Indians periodically-offered tours and school field miles of the Panhandle within the museum’s enlightens visitors as to their culture and trip options, PPHM hosts family-oriented walls and learn about the region’s unique their struggles. Clothing and fashion from and educational events throughout the history. Of the museum’s wide variety the past decades are on display as well as year. These events include an open house of exhibits, its salute to history includes firearms and weaponry from past wars. for a Christmastime celebration, summer rooms dedicated to paleontology, geology, With its varied wealth of information, the programs, lectures and children’s activities. automobiles, pioneer life, Native American museum can satisfy the curiosity of almost For locals and visitors alike, the culture, the oil industry and art. any visitor. Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum The museum offers an immersive Visitors can also appreciate the museum’s provides a glimpse into the past that is experience in learning about many different collection of art and historical documents. always worth the while.

58 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 THE CANYON NEWS CELEBRATING 124 YEARS OF PUBLISHING he Canyon News has a well- in advertising sales and Shannon Cook is the founded history of newspaper classified ads manager. publication in Randall County. The Canyon News is published on A phrase “The Voice of Randall Thursday and Sunday. Numerous awards County” can be applied beginning have been received from the Panhandle Press in 1889, when John Wesley Engell began The Association and Texas Press Association TCanyon City Echo. through the years. The General Excellence Between 1889 and 1896, The Canyon City Award for Division Two 2015 was awarded to Echo was renamed The Headlight, followed The Canyon News in April of the year. by the Battleship. In 2016, The Canyon News received In 1896, Mrs. R.W. Morgan, started a 16 awards from the Panhandle publication of The Stayer. From that date, Press Association. The Canyon News traces its name in one The Canyon News also won numerous form or another. This year is a celebration of awards from the PPA during 2017 and 2018. 124 years. In addition to the news, sports, lifestyles One of the unique characteristics of The and obituaries, The Canyon News also Canyon News is that in 124 years there publishes special sections throughout the Along with the printed edition, The have only been eight owners. The Hearst year. Some of those are: January, Spring Canyon News has an informative website, Corporation purchased The Canyon News in WTAMU Edition and Progress Edition; www.canyonnews.com. Facebook and May, 2007 and remains the current owner. February, Spring Bridal; April, Spring, Patio Twitter are also locations where readers Providing readers of Canyon and outlying and Garden specials; May, Discover Canyon, can find news updates. The Canyon News communities with up-to-date news and High School graduation section; July, Women can also be mailed or delivered to you. For sports is a primary goal of The Canyon News. in Business; August, Fall Get Buff Edition; subscription information, call 655-7121. The staff is committed to providing a quality October, Fair on the Square and Car Care The Canyon News is located at 1500 5th publication. Tim Ritter is the managing Edition; November, Christmas Gift Guide; Ave. Business hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. editor. Courtney Offield and Holly Clark are December, Christmas Greetings Edition. Monday – Friday.

PALO DURO CANYON STATE PARK ith scenic views and take photographs and observe the daunting terrain, Palo nature and wildlife found within the Duro Canyon promises scenic environment. to take a person’s breath The park offers a selection of camping away one way or another. options ranging from “roughing it” outdoors At 120 miles long, 20 miles wide, and more to a comfortable stay in a cabin. thanW 800-feet deep, Palo Duro Canyon ranks Choices include campgrounds specifically as the second largest canyon in the country. for backpacking or camping with horses, Surrounded by beautiful red rock, the “primitive” campsites and electrical camp canyon serves as a perfect place for almost areas. Three cabins are located on the any outdoor activity. The state park has canyon’s rim, and four cabins are available designated more than 30 miles of trails for on the canyon floor. horseback riding, biking and hiking trails. Visitors can commemorate their stay with For those wishing to ride horseback, trinkets and souvenirs found in the Visitor visitors may either bring their own horses Center on the canyon rim and The Trading or take a guided tour inside 1,500 acres Post on the canyon floor. specifically for horseback riding and on two Whether enjoying an afternoon hike or other trails shared with mountain bikers a week-long campout, Palo Duro Canyon and hikers. provides an adventure for the entire family Visitors can explore, sightsee, to enjoy.

CanyonNews.com 59 CANYON 101 AUTO SERVICE

Having car trouble is not pleasant, especially if you’re away from home, but Canyon auto shops make fixing the problem a pleasant experience. For oil changes, tire repair or more serious problems, or even updating that state inspection sticker, contact one of these shops to get you back on the road: Canyon Tire Company, 711 23rd St, (806) 655-7189 Crabtree Automotive and Lube Center, 201 N 11th St., (806) 655-4434 Coffman Feed & Trailer Sales, 16303 I-27 & Rockwell Rd., (806) 655-1363 Consumer’s Supply Service Station, 100 W 1st Ave., (806) 655-2134 Monkey Wrench Auto Repair, 510 23rd St., (806) 655-3171 Muffler House and Automotive, 21636 City Lake Rd., (806) 499-3556 Take 5 Oil Change, 1201 23rd St., 655-0852, (806) 655-9891 Toot’n Totum, 31 Hunsley Rd., (806) 452-7800 Wal-Mart SuperCenter, 1701 N. 23rd St., (806) 656-0597 Woodard’s Garage, 2309 8th Ave., BANKING (806) 655-7759 Amarillo National Bank 1700 4th Ave. (806) 345-1600 Education Credit Union 2100 4th Ave. (806) 655-7772 First Convenience Bank 1701 23rd St. in Wal-Mart (806) 655-7478 First United Bank 801 23rd St. (806) 655-8000 Happy State Bank 1908 4th Ave. (806) 655-2265 The People’s Federal Credit Union 120 Hunsley Rd. (806) 359-8571 Wellington State Bank 1310 4th Ave (806) 655-1000 Wells Fargo Bank 2111 4th Ave. (806) 655-1111

60 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 CANYON 101 CHURCHES There is a variety of places Christ Family First Christian Church Living Water St. George’s to worship in Canyon. With Fellowship Church (Disciples of Christ) Christian Fellowship Episcopal Church and an array of denominations 700 4th Ave. Service at 10 2011 Fourth Ave. Sunday 10100 W. Hwy. 60. Sunday Student Center and service times available, a.m. Sunday. school at 9 a.m. and school at 9 a.m. and 2516 Fourth Ave. Sunday Canyon is a community morning worship at 10:15 worship at 9:00 and 10:30 schedule: adult book Church of Christ with many spiritual options. a.m. Sunday. Bible study at a.m. Sunday. Kidzone study is at 9:30 a.m. Canyon Hills Sunday school and a 10:30 a.m. Monday. GLORY and Momentum at 6 p.m. and Holy Eucharist or Canyon Expressway and nursery for regular church night 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Wednesday. Ministry of the World is at Buffalo Stadium Road. services are offered by a for fellowship, meal and 10:30 a.m. Compline and Adult and children’s New Beginnings Full number of local churches. Bible study. potluck dinner begins at Bible studies at 9:45 a.m. Gospel Church 6:30 p.m. Wednesday. Anchor of Hope Sunday. Morning worship First Presbyterian Church Meets at Cole Community 1208 8th Ave. begins at 10:30 a.m. and 904 19th St. Worship is Center on 300 16th St. St. Paul Lutheran Church afternoon worship at 1:30 at 10:30 a.m. Sunday; Worship services at 10:45 2600 Fourth Ave. Sunday Arena of Life p.m. Sunday. Wednesday Wednesday Night Live! a.m. Sunday. school at 9:00 a.m. and Cowboy Church evening services at 7 p.m. At 6 p.m.; monthly 10:30 a.m. church services 8827 S. FM 1541 (Loop 335 Oasis Southwest adult fellowship at Sunday; University Bible and Washington). Worship Church of God of Baptist Church various homes. fellowship at 6:50 p.m. services at 10 a.m. Sunday. the Firstborn 8201 Canyon Dr. Worship Sunday and all college Wednesday night service 1521 Fourth Ave. Services First United service on Sunday at 8:30 students are welcome. and GRIT youth group for at 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Methodist Church a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Sunday ages 12-18 at 7 p.m. Sunday and 7:30 p.m. 1818 Fourth Ave. 8:30 a.m. school at 9:30 a.m. Sunday Second Avenue Church Wednesday. Prayer and 10:50 a.m. traditional night Bible study at 6 p.m. of Christ Bethel Baptist Church meetings at 9 p.m. service, 9:40 a.m. Sunday 1701 Second Ave. Sunday 1925 10th Ave. Worship Palo Duro Cowboy Church Monday – Saturday. school for all ages, and services at 10:30 a.m. services begin at 11 a.m. Hwy. 60, three miles west 10:50 a.m. contemporary and 7 p.m. Sunday. Church of Jesus Christ of of Canyon. 9:30 a.m. Summit Church service on Sunday. A Latter Day Saints campfire coffee and 10:30 2008 12th Ave. Worship Bible Believers variety of adult ministries, 63 Hunsley Rd. Canyon a.m. cowboy church. experiences at 9:15 Baptist Church youth and children’s Ward Sacrament meeting a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday. 12200 Rockwell Rd., 3 programs are offered. Palo Duro Canyon Church at 9 a.m. and Amarillo Services held at 7 p.m. miles west of Interstate 27. A user-friendly library in the canyon. Young Single Adult Branch on first Wednesday of Bible study begins at 10 is available. June – August. Old Sacrament meeting at 11 each month. a.m., and worship services West Stables. a.m. Sunday. Wednesday First United Truth Center are at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Trinity Fellowship Church night youth activities 1319 Fifth Ave. Sunday Pathpoint Sunday. A Bible study 5000 Hollywood Rd. at 7 p.m. services at 10:30 a.m. Fellowship Church is conducted at 7 p.m. Service times are at 5:30 and 6 p.m. Wednesday 6215 Canyon Dr. Services each Wednesday. Covenant p.m. Saturday and 9:30 meetings at 7:30 p.m. at 10:30 a.m. Sunday. Fellowship Church a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday. Calvary Baptist Church Youth services at 8501 Coulter. Worship at Freedom Nursery and children’s 800 8th St. Sunday school 7 p.m. Wednesday. 10:30 a.m. Sunday. Fellowship Church ministries are provided for at 9:30 a.m. and worship 55 Hunsley Rd. Sunday Rockwell Road all services. service at 10:40 a.m. Faith Community Church worship at 10 a.m. Amp’d Baptist Church Sunday. Wednesday 10:00 2706 Fourth Ave. Classes Twenty-First St. Church student ministries for junior Interstate 27 and Rockwell a.m. and 6:30 p.m. are held at 10 a.m. and of Christ and senior high students Rd. Sunday school at 10 worship services at 11 a.m. 6th Ave & 21st St. Canyon. Canyon Country Church at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday. a.m. with services at 11 a.m. Sunday. Evening services Sunday worship at 10:30 26000 FM 3331, Canyon Various groups meet and 6 p.m. Sunday and are at 6:30 p.m. Sunday. a.m. Wednesday worship at during the week. 7:00 p.m. Wednesday. Canyon Primitive Bible study begins at 7:30 p.m Baptist Church 7 p.m. Wednesday. Hillside Christian Church St. Ann’s Catholic Church University Church 1701 2nd Ave. 10:30 a.m. of Canyon 605 38th St. Weekend First Baptist Church of Christ the first, second and third 1701 23rd St. Service times schedule: Mass at 6 p.m. 1717 Fourth Ave. Sunday 3400 Conner Dr. Bible Sundays of the month. at 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., and Saturday and 9:00 a.m. worship service, 10:30 a.m.; class at 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Sunday. Youth at and 11:30 a.m. Sunday. Canyon First Assembly Bible study for all ages, morning worship at 7 p.m. Wednesday. Christian formation is at of God 9:15 a.m.; Adult, University, 10:25 a.m. with evening 10:20 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. 2318 13th Ave. Life youth and children’s Jehovah’s Witness worship at 6 p.m. Sunday. Sunday. Confession is at enrichment classes at programs are conducted 5141 Canyon Dr., Amarillo. Wednesday devotionals 4:15 – 4:45 p.m. Saturday. 9:30 a.m. and celebration throughout the year. and children’s classes start services at 10:40 a.m. at 7 p.m. (times change Sunday. Bible study at with season) 7 p.m. on Wednesday and youth at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday.

CanyonNews.com 61 CLUBS AND CIVIC SERVICE - Canyon Lions Club, Canyon’s - Palo Duro Chapter for the largest civic club, meets at noon Kiwanis Club of Canyon meets Wednesdays at Cole Community at 6:30 a.m. Thursdays at First Center on 300 16th St. Anyone is Christian Church on 2011 Fourth invited to join the club. Ave. For information, call John Hasse at (806) 651-2766. Anyone - Canyon Masonic Lodge is invited to join the club. promotes community welfare through helping those in need. - Toastmasters is a club open to Membership dues are collected anyone who would like to improve annually and meetings vary his or her communication or public according to schedules. For speaking skills. The group meets information, call (806) 655-3001. for a bag lunch at noon Mondays in the University Church of Christ - Jim Wilson Duplicate Bridge fellowship hall on 3400 Conner Dr. Club and the University Bridge on the south side of the building. Club, both of which meet at First Guests and members give short United Methodist Church on 1818 orations, and members critique Fourth Ave. Jim Wilson meets at each other in a good-hearted 10 a.m. Mondays and University at but educational manner. For 11 a.m. Wednesdays. Residents are information, call (806) 655-3171. invited to attend either or both of these bridge clubs. - Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 430, offers alcohol-free, smoke- - Order of the Eastern Star— free, family-oriented opportunities the female side of Masons— for fellowship and service. Each supports community projects and year, the organization hosts educational scholarships for high several special events and has school students. Meetings vary monthly meetings on the first according to members’ schedules. GOLFING Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. For information, call Frances in the VFW hall on VFW Road Palo Duro Creek Golf Course Canyon Country Club Waldrip at (806) 655-3997. 50 Country Club Dr. 19501 Chaparral Rd. northwest of Hunsley Park. Potluck (806) 655-1106 (806) 499-3397 - Canyon Rotary Club: The club meal served every third Thursday. Public golf course Semi-private golf course, meets at noon Tuesdays in the For more information, call Sid Weekday green fees: $20 which is open to the public Buffalo Club Room at First United Ricks at (806) 655-0284. during the day and $13 after Member guest green fee: $17 Bank Center. 3 p.m. Monday through for 18 holes or $11 for 9 holes Thursday; Weekend green Monday through Thursday; fees: $25 during the day Weekend green fees: $20 for and $15 after 3 p.m. Friday $18 holes and $11 for 9 holes; through Sunday; Seniors Seniors, Monday through over 60: $16 on weekdays Thursday, $14 for 18 holes; and $20 on weekends; Non-Member green fee: $20 Juniors 18 and under: $10; for 18 holes or $11 for 9 holes Full-time college students Monday through Thursday; age 24 or younger: $16 Senior green fee $14 for on weekdays and $20 on 18 holes Monday through weekends; Annual permits: Thursday. $900 for an individual, with To get to the Country Club additional individuals in the Golf Course, travel west family added for $300 each; on the U.S. Highway 60 for Student senior permit: $240 about two miles, turn right at for high school seniors and the club sign, and travel one younger good June through more mile to the club house. August; Senior citizen *All rates subject to change. permits: $575 for single weekday play Features of the course include a practice range and green and a golf shop

62 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 CANYON 101

GROCERIES

United Supermarket 201 23rd St. Offers groceries, a bakery, floral shop and pharmacy Fully cooked meals also can be purchased at the deli area Wal-Mart Supercenter 1701 N. 23rd St. Everything from groceries to the latest fashions Dollar General 400 Harrell Ln. Groceries, cleaning supplies, cards, clothing and miscellaneous items

LAUNDRY

Buffalo Laundry 1302 23rd St. 32 washers and 13 dryers Cost to wash a load is $1.50 The dryers cost 25 cents for every seven and a half minutes Chairs and tables available Palo Duro Laundry 2312 9th Ave. 28 washers and 18 dryers Cost to wash a load is $1.50 The dryers cost 25 cents for every seven and a half minutes Tables, rolling baskets and chairs

CLEANERS

Modern Cleaners 411 16th St 806-655-3611 U.S. Cleaners 2005 N 2nd Ave. Ste A 806-452-8022

CanyonNews.com 63 LODGING Canyon plays host to many is pet friendly. To make Hudspeth House rolls is available. Check-in go online to http://www. attractions and sights reservations or secure 1905 Fourth Ave. time is from 4 – 6 p.m., thecottageguesthome. around the city. Overnight information, individuals The historic Hudspeth but arrangements can com. visitors can find lodging in may call (806) 655-1818. House was built in be made if guests make modern hotels, at homey 1909 and operated as a request. Check-out For those who would Buffalo Inn inns, or outside under the a boarding house for time is 11 a.m., but many rather “rough it,” the 300 23rd St. Panhandle sky on warm some faculty at West guests find it hard to leave. Canyon area has three RV Cable, HBO and ESPN summer nights. Every Texas Normal College, For an additional $55, parks. Palo Duro Canyon television service, along visitor can find a perfect fit now recognized as West a late checkout can be State Park offers primitive with free high speed for their traveling needs. Texas A&M University. accommodated. and backpacking camping wireless Internet, are A number of hotels and Mrs. Hudspeth, who was sites, four primitive cow among the free services The Cottage Guest Home area bed and breakfasts among the first faculty at camp cabins and a trio of offered to patrons of the 2010 Third Ave. in Canyon offer a wide the college, hired a cook three-quarter century old Buffalo Inn at 300 23rd The Cottage Guest Home, variety of amenities for and entertained students cabins with canyon views. St. Located across the built in 1948, is like a home travelers and locals alike. and staff. Artist Georgia street from the WTAMU away from home. It is Palo Duro Canyon O’Keefe ate her meals Holiday Inn Express campus, the facility is near located two blocks from State Park in the house during her Hotel & Suites the museum and a number West Texas A&M University Sites at Palo Duro Canyon two years on staff at the 2901 Fourth Ave. of eating establishments. and is also near many are available by phoning college. The home later Holiday Inn Express Hotel Free summer breakfast shops. Amenities include (512) 389-8900 for was owned by private & Suites, which consists is available, along household conveniences reservations. Available are: individuals and became a of 66 guest rooms, offers with a refrigerator and such as a guest snack - Primitive and bed and breakfast in 1987. numerous amenities, microwave. basket, linens, towels and backpacking cabin, four It is now the most unique including spacious rooms, Groups are welcome wash cloths, toiletries, a persons, $12 lodging accommodation executive whirlpool suites and winter weekly blow dryer, a front load - Campsites with in Canyon, offering seven and family options. The rates and senior citizen washer and dryer, laundry electricity and water, four beautifully appointed hotel begins each day with discounts are offered. soap and dryer sheets, persons, $20 rooms. Rates range from a unique express-start For reservations or robes, a Keurig coffee - Four primitive cow camp $105-$155 per night breakfast bar. Guests can information, call (806) machine and coffee, cabins, no water, two and include a delicious enjoy free high-speed 655-2124 or (800) 526- high-speed Internet, persons, $55 full breakfast. Call (806) Internet, on-site self- 9968 or go online to www. cable television, a DVD - Three 1930s-era 655-9800 or go online at laundry facilities, an indoor buffaloinncanyontx.com. collection and a kitchen cabins with views of the www.hudspethinn.com to pool, spa and exercise furnished with all one canyon: Lighthouse and Buffalo Junction make reservations. room. Visitors can stay needs to whip up a meal. Goodnight, $100; larger Guest Home “plugged in” via new Starlight Canyon Fun things to do include Sorenson cabin, $115. 1818 Fifth Ave. technology. Family pets Bed & Breakfast a hot tub, a patio and grill, Each has restrooms. Four This guest home is located are also welcome guests. 100 Brentwood Rd. a garden sitting area, four persons. Pets allowed. in the heart of Canyon Special rates are available Starlight Canyon Bed bicycles, a game closet, within walking distance for groups, celebrations & Breakfast sits on the an outdoor washers board to the downtown square RV PARKS: and family gatherings. northern branch of the and a book nook. Special and West Texas A&M Palo Duro Mobile RV & To make reservations Palo Duro Canyon, packages are priced in University. The house Mobile Home Park, I-27 or secure additional surrounded by a green addition to nightly rates. was built in 1920 and has and Texas 217; phone information, individuals oasis with nearly 100-year- The honeymoon/romantic high ceilings and original 488-2548. are asked to call (806) old elm trees and skirted getaway includes a choice wood floors. The kitchen West Rim RV Park - 655-4445 or go online to by the colorful canyon of wine or sparkling cider, has everything you need Located at state park www.hiexpress.com. walls. The three cabins a cheese and cracker tray, to make a home-cooked entrance; 488-2241; nightly offer guests a relaxing and a scented candle tray Palo Duro Best Western meal, and there is also charges and special rates and romantic getaway. for bedroom or hot tub Inn and Suites a laundry room with a for senior citizens, military, The bed and breakfast area. The girls’ weekend 2801 Fourth Ave. washer and dryer for your police and firemen; gift also serves as a wedding package offers a paraffin Guests in the 55 modern convenience. Cable TV shop and convenience venue. Call at (806) wax treatment, facial suites and rooms can and WiFi are provided, as store open at 8 a.m. 622-2382. On weekend masks and an ice cream take advantage of an well as a book nook, DVD Woodall’s - U.S. Hwy. 60; mornings, Starlight Canyon and toppings set-up. The indoor pool and hot collection, board games west of Canyon. offers a hot, home-cooked couples’ vision retreat tub, high-speed Internet and outdoor games. Palo Duro Lodging RV breakfast delivered to allows for time to step connections (wireless and Outdoor space offers Park - 24501 Hix Rd, 806- rooms to allow guests to away from busy schedules hard wire), free local calls, seating and a barbecue 680-3401 stay in the comfort of the and refocus. in-room hair dryers and grill. For reservation or The Silos at Canyon RV cabins. During the week, a To make reservations coffee makers, DVD/VCR information, call (806) Park - 19671 City Lake Rd continental-style breakfast or for more information, and free HBO/CNN/ESPN 570-4508. with homemade cinnamon call (806) 223-3233, or cable hookups. The hotel

64 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 CANYON 101 CHILD CARE Brown’s Playhouse is staffed by WTAMU students Daycare, Inc. who are childhood education Located at 605 4th Ave., majors. Call (806) 651-2974 or Brown’s Playhouse Daycare contact Darla Clark, coordinator accepts children ages birth to by e-mailing [email protected]. 13 years from 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m. edu. Monday through Friday. Hot The Christian Learning Center lunches, snacks, preschool Located at 1717 4th Ave., offers activities and occasional field a Christian-based preschool trips all are part of the package. in two- three- and five-day For information, call Lynn Brown programs that last from 8:45- at (806) 655-3092, or e-mail 11:30 a.m. daily, with extended [email protected]. care available from 7:30 a.m.-6 Friendship Ranch p.m. daily Monday through The licensed program is for Friday. They also provide children 6 weeks to 13 years transportation for students from and is open year-round for kindergarten through fourth their customers’ benefit. The grade after school. On Tuesdays program offers a structured through Thursdays, the center is curriculum, which cares and now offering classes for children nurtures children from 7 a.m.-6 six weeks through 3 years of p.m., Monday through Friday. age, not potty trained. Summer A plus for the ranch is after- programs also are available with school pickup of students on activities. For information, call all Canyon Independent School (806) 655-3246. District campuses. Professional HEALTH CARE St. Ann’s Little teachers on staff direct field Lambs Pre-School trips, teach pre-school classes Located at 605 38th St., in FAMILY MEDICINE CHIROPRACTORS Dr. Kenneth A. Crossland and oversee a number of & Dr. Folger B. Vallette Canyon, St. Ann’s Little Lambs Family Medicine Center & Canyon Chiropractic activity clubs including arts and 2000 4th Ave is a pre-kindergarten program Care Express 2306 7th Ave. crafts and science. For more (806) 655-4181 that is from 8-11:30 a.m. Parents 911 23rd St. (806) 655-2373 information, call the center, can also choose extended care, (806) 655-2104 Drs. Nancy Hinders and located at 1108 24th St., at Sol Dental which is from 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. www.fmcclinics.com William Braudt 301 N 23rd St. Ste A (806) 655-3454. Certified teachers and a caring - 7 days a week, 8am - (806) 591-1101 Kershen Chiropractic In His Hands Child staff will teach social skills, Midnight 1613 4th Ave. Development Center language arts, math, science, (806) 655-8777 ORTHODONTISTS A division of First United music and art in a Christian, Northwest Texas Dr. Russell Kershen Methodist Church at 1818 fun and loving atmosphere Physician Group Corbin Orthodontics 301 N 23rd St. Ste C 4th Ave., In His Hands that will prepare the children Raef Chiropractic Clinic 1801 4th Ave. (806) 452-5522 offers children from birth to for kindergarten. Call Karen 402 15th St. (806) 655-4481 www.nwtpg.com kindergarten a safe, friendly Wyatt at (806) 570-6873 for (806) 655-1108 M-F 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Harwell & Cook and structured environment more information. Dr. Kevin Raef and sons. Orthodontics from 7:15 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Faith Medical Clinic Sunshine Childcare Center Fuller Chiropractic & 308 14th St. Suite 200 preschoolers from 8:15-noon 1619 4th Ave. Located at 2108 13th Ave., Wellness (806) 353-3593 daily Monday through Friday. (806) 557-4674 Sunshine offers preschool, 1205 23rd St., Suite1 Trained in early childhood www.faithmedicalclinic.org after-school and summer (806) 452-8011 development, staff members - Gloria Fuller serves EYE CARE programs for children ages six Dr. Stephen Fuller are dedicated to the care as the Family Nurse weeks to 13 years from 6:30 Advanced Eye Care of the young. All preschool Practitioner a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through 1801 4th Ave. teachers hold Texas teaching DENTISTS Friday. Included are hot meals, (806) 655-7748 certification and follow an structured pre-school programs, DERMATOLOGISTS Canyon Family Dental Dr. Kevin Appel, Dr. Lauren approved curriculum. A number school delivery and pick-up, 2808 4th Ave Suite B A. Salazar and Dr. Aaron of activities include field trips, Canyon Dermotology after school programs, arts and (806) 656-6835 Stephenson music education and themed 1101 4th Ave. Eye exams and crafts and summer activities. For Dental Group of Canyon curriculums. For information, call (806) 655-7155 evaluations for contacts or information, call (806) 655-9821. 710 23rd St (806) 655-5437. Palo Duro Dermatology eye glasses, diagnosis of University Church of Christ 806-358-7633 Kids College 2005 N 2nd Ave. Ste. D eye diseases and injuries, Located at 3400 Conner, offers Dr. Amy Stephenson On the West Texas A&M (806) 510-3376 treatment of glaucoma preschool care, as well as University campus, childcare is Dr. Brian Wilson and laser consultations regular daycare for children available from 7:30 a.m.-5:30 1801 4th Ave for patients pediatric from 1-5 years old on a limited PHYSICAL THERAPIST p.m. Monday through Friday for (806) 655-1104 to geriatric basis. Hours are 9:30 a.m.-3 children 18 months to 5 years Canyon Physical Therapy p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays old. The facility, located in the 907 23rd St. only. Call (806) 655-3952. Virgil Henson Activities Center, (806) 655-6824

CanyonNews.com 65 RESTAURANTS If it’s good eats or a sweet King and I, 104 15th St. treat, Canyon residents Jack B. Kelley Food Court have good reason to stay (WTAMU campus) close to home, with a wide variety of choices. La Bella Pizza, 700 23rd St. Back 40 Grill, 1512 5th Ave. Mama DeLuca’s inside Walmart, 1701 N. 23rd St. Bear’s Burgers & Dawgs, 2001-A North 2nd Ave. McDonald’s, 200 23rd St. Best Thai Restaurant, 210 Palace Coffee Company, 23rd St. 420 15th St. Braum’s, 1101 23rd St. Pepito’s Mexican Restaurante, 408 23rd St. Buenos Dias, 1202 23rd St. Pizza Hut, 110 23rd St. Buffs, 2201 4th Ave Pony Express Burritos, Burger King, 1301 23rd St. 2808 4th Ave. Unit C Cake Company, 1502 5th Pure Water Ice and Tea Ave. Company, 504 23rd St. Chicken Express, 2106 N. Ranch House Cafe, 810 2nd Ave. 23rd St. Dominos, 301 N. 23rd St Rockin’ Zebra Soda Ste. B Shoppe, 404 15th St. Donut Stop, 100 23rd St. Sayakomarn’s Thai and Double Eagle Grill & More, Lao Cuisine, 419 16th St. 50 Country Club Dr Schlotzsky’s Deli, 901 23rd El Patio Mexican St. Restaurante, 1410 Hereford Sonic Drive-In, 1007 23rd Hwy. St. El Tapatio, 2301 12th Ave. Subway, 102 N. 23rd St. Family Soul Food, 1205 Subway inside Walmart, 23rd St. 1701 N. 23rd St. Fat Boy’s Bar-B-Q, 104 Taco Bell, 611 23rd St. 23rd St. SERVICES Taco Villa, 110 North 23rd Feldman’s Wrong Way St. Canyon’s City Hall Voter Administration Diner, 2100 N. 2nd Ave. 301 16th St. (806) 468-5539 Thai Kitchen, 713 23rd St. Got Donuts, 601 23rd St. City of Canyon Business Office Precinct 1 Justice of the Peace United Supermarket Deli, (806) 655-5003 (806) 468-5606 Hudspeth House H&H 201 23rd St. Water, trash and sewer services Traffic fines and other citations Coffee, 1905 4th Ave Wendy’s, 407 23rd St. given within the precinct Hil’s Burgers, 1302 23rd St. Canyon Police Department (806) 655-5005 Randall County Justice Center Joe Taco, 502 15th St. Local traffic tickets and citations 2309 Russell Long Blvd. for Class C misdemeanor County and district clerks’ offices offenses Electricity Animal control officer Xcel Energy (800) 895-1999 Randall County Finance Natural gas Building Atmos Energy (888) 286-6700 501 16th St. Cable Tax assessor-collector SuddenLink (806) 358-4801 (806) 468-5540

66 DISCOVER CANYON | The Canyon News | July 12, 2020 CANYON 101

SENIOR PLACES TO SHOP LIVING IN CANYON Canyon Senior Palo Duro Citizens Center Retirement Village Ace Hardware, 900 Panhandle-Plains The Rack Boutique, 1719 5th Ave. 9 Hospital Drive 23rd St. Historical Museum Gift 1609 4th Ave. (806) 655-7197 (806) 655-1712 Shop, 2503 4th Ave. Burrowing Owl, 419 The Sport Zone & • Anyone age 60 or over • 76 apartments available 16th St. ReUze It Again, 1513 Blessed Buffalo from 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. through purchase or lease 4th Ave. Boutique, 2306 4th Ave. Monday through Friday in independent-living Canyon Popcorn Co., • Activities include exercise community 2304 4th Avenue Restoration Chic, 2316 Thompson’s Gift Shop, 4th Ave. 405 16th St. sessions, quilting and • Facility also offers 28 lots Creation’s by MikEE fellowship for garden homes Jewelry, 1607 4th Ave Rustic Gypsy, 420 Town Square Frame & • Lunch is served at 11:30 • Community is strictly for 15th St. Art, 400 15th St. a.m., with a donation senior citizens Creek House Honey requested • Structured as a Farm, 5005 4th Ave. Ruthette’s, 1512 5th Ave. United Supermarkets, cooperative-type 201 N 23rd St. Meals on Wheels Fourth Avenue Art, 1608 Rustic Gypsy, 420 housing entity (806) 433-4405 4th Ave. 15th St. Walmart, 1701 N 23rd St. • Interior and exterior • Anyone of any age who maintenance HR’s Flowers & Gifts, Sacred Maroon, 1512 Weathered Elements, needs assistance is eligible • 24-hour security 2010 4th Ave. 5th Ave. 1521 4th Ave. • Call to inquire about • Groundskeeping volunteering or Johnston Hardware, Stevens Flowers & Gifts, West Texas A&M • Once-a-month receiving meals 408 15th St. 1515 4th Ave. University Bookstore, housekeeping • Contributions can be 101 25th St. • Covered parking Palo Duro Canyon TEXAS Musical Ticket mailed to: Meals on Wheels • Garage rentals Visitor & Gift Center, Office & Gift Shop, 1514 West Texas Western of Canyon, Box 1515, • Noon buffet served seven 11450 Park Rd 5. 5th Ave. Store, 1206 23rd St. Canyon, TX 79015 days a week Palo Duro Canyon The Purple Zebra Conner House • Beauty and barber shops, Outftters, 1601 4th Ave. Boutique, 404 15th St. 2 Cottonwood Lane as well as a library (806) 655-5965 Skywest Assisted Living • Assisted living and respite 2623 12th Ave. care on a full-time basis or (806) 655-2911 as needed • Different levels of care by • Residents retain an experienced staff for independence 16 residents • Backup assistance • Supervised use of as needed prescribed medication, • One-room studio or one- health monitoring and bedroom apartments supervised meals Hudson House • Housekeeping provided 3210 Russell Long Blvd. • Three meals are served (806) 655-4244 daily in the dining room • 31 assisted living units • Private rooms in a single- • Supervised care includes story structure monitoring of medical • Rooms are leased by needs, such as blood sugar the month and blood pressure checks • Night supervisions can provide checks on a two- hour basis by request • Fees must be paid through private funds • Single and double occupancy available • Family and friends welcome to visit between 8 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. or later by appointment or security clearance.

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