Amarillo Magazine | October 2011

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION: PINK PAGES

amarillomagonline.com OCTOBER 2011

FULL PAGE 9.5” x 11.375” with bleed

Buffing Up WTAMU grows its brand and prepares for the future as it marks its 101st year WTAMU students Frankie Sanchez, Audra Thurman, Jeff Long, and Kaylin Thomas

ANIMAL INSTINCTS Unleash your animal instincts with fierce patterns and update a classic outfit with daring, yet elegant accessories.

PICKS OF THE PATCH Pumpkins are an autumn harvest staple, so carve out a spot on your plate for a non-traditional, seasonal treat.

PINK PAGES

Read survivor stories, learn about new medical technology and find resources to help with a positive self-image.

contents

On the cover 28 Buffing Up Since stepping foot on WTAMU’s campus five years ago, President O’Brien has initiated crucial changes to the university. What began in 1910 as West Texas State Normal College with 152 students and a single classroom, then later a teacher’s college, has grown into a public state university boasting more than 8,000 students, 61 undergraduate programs, 45 master’s degree programs and one doctoral program. photos by Davy Knapp

Features

21 Animal Instincts

Unleash your animal instincts with fierce patterns and update a classic outfit with daring, yet elegant accessories.

40 Picks of the Patch

Pumpkins are an autumn harvest staple, so carve out a spot on your plate for a non-traditional, seasonal treat.

45 Pink Pages

4

45

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, our annual Pink Pages feature the stories of brave survivors, showcase advanced medical technology and explore resources to help women maintain a positive self-image.

sections photo of the Harrington Breast Center mobile coach courtesy of Harrington Breast Center

Contributors..............................6 Online Page............................10 Out & About...........................12 The Way I See It....................18 Dress Code..............................21 Home.........................................26

Inspire........................................38 What’s Cooking?..................40 Events........................................59 Let’s Eat!....................................67 Retro Rewind.........................74 Spotlight..................................76

2011 Nissan Murano Crosscabriolet

McGavock Nissan 4700 S. Soncy, Amarillo, TX | 354-3550 | www.mcgavocknissan.com

contributors

6

Davy Knapp

Neil Starkey

Davy took the pictures for our cover story, “Buffing Up,” on page 28. Davy is a destination family and wedding photographer based in Amarillo. He has been a professional photographer for 13 years. Davy has traveled North and Central America using his camera as a medium to create lasting legacies of family relationships. Davy’s work has been published in numerous magazines including Rangefinder, Professional Photographer, The Texas Wedding Guide and Texas Highways including many cover features. See Davy’s work at davyknapp.com.

Neil photographed some of the events in “Out & About” beginning on page 12. He has a degree in television production from Rogers State College in Claremore, Okla. and has been a photographer for more than 20 years.

After moving to Amarillo in 2005, Neil started his video and photography business, For the Generations. Contact Neil at ftgvideo.com.

Pam Lary

Andy Chase Cundiff

Pam photographed the items in “Animal Instincts,” on page 21 and “Hands of Time” on page 26. She stays ahead of photography trends through Master Photographer workshops and memberships in multiple state and national photographer associations. Pam specializes in commercial and newborn and contemporary children’s photography. See Pam’s work at pamlaryphotography.com.

Andy, a local artist, singer and songwriter, has called Amarillo home for 20 years. He plays at a variety of venues around the Panhandle. See Andy’s artwork every month with Jon Mark Beilue’s column (page 18). Contact Andy at andychasemusic.com.

Shannon Richardson

Andy and T Price

Shannon shot “Picks of the Patch” on page 40, “Pink Pages” beginning on page 45 and “Let’s Eat” on page 67. He has been photographing commercial/advertising work for the past 14 years. His photography has won numerous Addy awards including three best of shows as well as being featured in the Graphis Photo Annual 2001, JPG Magazine and Shots. He recently published a photographic book about Route 66. See Shannon’s work at shannonrichardson.com and route66americanicon.com.

Andy and T created the recipes for “Picks of the Patch” on page 40. Together, they own Real Food Café on Sixth Street and also operate a catering company specializing in weddings and private parties. Andy and T have been creating and serving their “made-fromscratch food with a wholesome flare” for more than 10 years. Find Andy and T on Facebook under Real Food Company.

Heather Ladd

Jeff Harbin

Heather photographed some of the events in “Out & About” beginning on page 12. She earned a B.A. in English from West Texas A&M University. She and husband, Micah, have three children. Heather is a teacher for Boys Ranch ISD and has been a professional photographer for two years. See Heather’s work at heatherladdphotography.com.

Jeff photographed “Spotlight” on page 76.

He is a husband, father of two little boys, a firefighter with the Amarillo Fire Department and the owner of Life of Riley Photography. He was born and raised in Amarillo and is proud to work in the community. His passion for art and the creative process began as a child and led him to his love of photography. To see Jeff’s work, visit lifeofrileyphotography.com.

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

Publisher

Les Simpson

Editor

Michele McAffrey 806.345.3256 michele.mcaffrey@amarillo.com

Feature Writer

Drew Belle Zerby 806.345.3223 drew.zerby@amarillo.com

Tyler Mitchell

Creative Services Supervisor

Designer

Graphic Artist

Darren Hendricks Brian Bussey

VP Advertising/ Revenue Development

Mike Distelhorst

Classified Sales Manager

Cindy Brown

Retail Sales Manager

Jaime Pipkin

Online Sales Manager

Kendra Barrett

Major/National Accounts Manager

Dewey Shanks

Account

Representatives

Laura Collins Vicky Coronado Sharon Denny Trish Faris Cory Griggs Cindy Ledesma Rick Miller Michelle Parsons Natasha Reavis Kristi Slocum Marcy Weldon

Sarena Poor

Advertising Sales Support Supervisor

Sales Assistants

Lynsie Johnson Yolanda Navarette Leasa Salazar

To advertise in Amarillo Magazine, please contact Jaime Pipkin at 806.345.3432 or jaime.pipkin@amarillo.com.

To advertise on amarillomagonline.com, please contact Kendra Barrett at 806.345.3472 or kendra.barrett@amarillo.com.

Production Director Division Controller

Mike O’Connor Mike Clayton

900 S. Harrison St., Amarillo, TX 79101 806.376.4488 • amarillomagonline.com Amarillo Magazine is a monthly publication of Amarillo Globe-News Custom Publishing. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent. Letters to the Editor are welcome but may be edited due to space limitations.

8

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

editor’s letter

After toiling in record-high temperatures, our staff gratefully left summer and its heat behind. I can’t remember ever being as miserable at so many photo shoots. As we shopped for the October issue and executed each photo shoot, especially the cover shoot at WTAMU, I can assure you we were wishing for October weather. To capture all the images you’ll see in “Buffing Up” on page 28, we spent eight hours with photographer Davy Knapp in 100-plus heat, grateful when we got to duck into air-conditioned buildings as we made our way around campus.

I love fall more than any other season.

As the temperatures begin to drop, there’s crispness to the air unlike any other time of year. My family loves fall almost as much as I do, namely because colder temperatures make me want to hole up in the house and cook. We have a rotating batch of cool-weather favorites such as stew, chili and my mom’s red sauce. Years ago a friend shared her excellent pumpkin roll recipe with me, and it’s become a fall and holiday staple at my house.

We were literally drooling at the chance to get our hands on T and Andy’s creations in this month’s “What’s Cooking,” (page 40), especially the Pumpkin Cake with Brown Butter Icing and Caramelized Walnuts. After we finished the photo shoot, I think the cake lasted about two minutes, according to Drew (I wasn’t around to witness the carnage when we shared it with our coworkers at the Globe). If you try your hand at baking it, you won’t believe the icing doesn’t have cream cheese; it’s so rich and delicious.

Our recipe section continues to be one of our most popular features and we’re excited to partner with Little Brown House as a new sponsor each month. Owner Frieda Sims and her staff bring their flare for elegant housewares to our pages, helping us showcase the scrumptious cuisine our experts cook up. What’s more, Little Brown House wanted to give our readers the chance to bring that elegance to their own tables. Make sure you visit amarillomagonline.com/contest and register to win a $50 gift card to Little Brown House.

And if you have a minute when you visit, leave us your feedback. We always enjoy hearing what our readers think.

As always thanks for reading,

online page

amarillomagonline.com Cover Story Extended Photo Gallery

See more photos from “Buffing Up” with photographer Davy Knapp.

Online Exclusive

Randy Ray, director of broadcast engineering at WTAMU

Lone Star Ballet puts a spin on Robert Louis Stevenson’s novella, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, with its original production that follows the doctor and his haunting transformation into his sinister doppelganger. Get the scoop on the LSB performance and see photos of dress rehearsal the week of October 10.

Little Brown House giveaway

Book Deals

Register to win

We’re social!

Fancy the serving pieces featured in What’s Cooking? Or are you just looking to add to your kitchen collection? Every month, one lucky reader will receive a $50 gift certificate to Little Brown House.

Register to win by entering “Little Brown House” in the Comments section at amarillomagonline.com/contest.

Submit your name and contact information to amarillomagonline.com/ contact this month for a chance to win a $100 gift card to Dillard’s.

Last month’s winner was Julie Smith.

Win signed copies of Amarillo author Jason Boyett’s Pocket Guide series. We have two copies each of Pocket Guide to the Apocalypse and Pocket Guide to the Bible. Register to win by entering “Jason Boyett book” in the Comments section at amarillomagonline.com/contest.

Follow us (@AmarilloMag) on Twitter and like our Facebook page, Amarillo Magazine.

Contests, giveaways and more!

Like our Facebook page, facebook.com/amarillomagazine, to be eligible for prizes and giveaways.

10

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

out & about

Center City Block Party

1

Crowds from the Center City Block Party filled the streets of downtown Amarillo on August 20. Twenty-five bands, including A.J. Swope & The Last Train Home, Mike Fuller and Insufficient Funds, provided entertainment for the 16th annual bash.

1. Jay Schlager, Michael Corona, La Juanna Smith, Angie Williams, Mundy Corona, Tina Colbert and Carl Williams 2. Zach Ford, Tanner Sprinkle and Marcous Morris 3. Kenneth Sorrels and Striker the Venom Mascot (Cassidy Lane) 4. Gwen and Kent Sappenfield 5. Lisa Pedigo, 3 Rafale Canizaes-Yunez, Jennifer Hughes, Kirby Sutterfield and Casper the dog photos by Neil Starkey

2

4

Boy Scouts of America Sporting Clays Auction

1

Boy Scouts of America, Golden Spread Council, hosted its Sporting Clays Auction on August 12 at the Civic Center Grand Plaza. The ninth annual event, held in conjunction with the Sporting Clays Classic, 4 benefited Golden Spread Council scouting programs.

1. Steve and Jamie Rodriguez 2. Randy and Jana White, and Dave Krupnick 3. Alex and Andrew Altman, and Brittany Smith 4. Mindy Ingram and Ben Brooks 5. Jay Lasseter, Gerald Figurilli, Bill Magrogan and Riley Hill photos by Heather Ladd

3

12

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

5

5

2

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

13

out & about

1

2

Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Banquet

On August 23, the Chamber of Commerce held its Annual Awards Banquet at the Civic Center Grand Plaza. The Chamber honored the top small businesses of 2011 and the Top 20 Under 40 award recipients.

1. Danny and Kristie Bixler 2. Amy and Sabre Cofer 3. Amy Henderson, and Jim and Darlene Del Vecchio 4. Sherry Ann Kornegay and Nemo Rodriguez 5. Lavina Randle, Bobbie and Elijah Demerson, Chrislyn and Bowden Jones, Reggie Jones, Gelinda Jones and Heather Fuller Jones

5

photos by Heather Ladd

3

4

Santa in the Summer

1

2

The Eveline Rivers Christmas Project hosted its annual fundraiser August 27. In operation for more than 30 years, the Project raises money throughout the year to assist disadvantaged children in area school districts. The event included dinner, live music and an auction.

1. Millard and Mateel Brown 2. Karen Williams and Adrienne Graham 3. Byron and Beverly Sutterfield, Mary Martin, Raymond Donaldson, Dan and Lori Henke, and Darlene Martin 4. Tiffany Confer, Carol Sue LeGate, Terri Graham and Lynda McCarty 5. Rosemartha Cates, Caroline Smith and Millie Bingham photos by Neil Starkey

4

3

5

14

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

“My life is forever changed!”

Metabolic Research Center has forever changed my life for the better! Words are inadequate when it comes to fully explaining the difference my MRC family has made for me.

75 51.5

pounds inches

I cannot imagine where I would be if I hadn’t

poor and I knew it. Since losing 75 pounds, my has increased. I have made friendships that will last a lifetime.Thank you MRC for helping me when I could not help myself. You are amazing and I am blessed to have traveled Before this journey.

Tammy

THinK pinK!

Tammy lost

After Visit us on your mobile device Like us on

emetabolic.com Locations independently owned and operated

*Individual results may vary.

facebook.com/metabolicresearchcenter

FREE Consultation

NEW CLIENT

SPECIALS

806.356.6066 Ask us about our

Tripp’s Harley-DaviDson

6040 W I-40 . AmArIllo . 352.2021 . trIppshd.com

“If the pumpkin fits, wear it!”

AMARILLO GLOBE-NEWS

BEST 2010 OF AMARILLO

Lizzie Mae’s Mercantile

I-40 Exit (64) | Soncy, North to Amarillo Blvd. Go West, 1 1/4 mile | 806-331-1710 | 10101 Amarillo Blvd. West

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

15

out & about

United Way Kickoff Luncheon

2

The United Way of Amarillo and Canyon celebrated its annual Kickoff Luncheon on August 31. Guests gathered at the Civic Center Grand Plaza to support the organization’s 2011 1 fundraising campaign.

1. Randy and Tanya Sluder 2. Payton Noel, Kylie Head, Reggie Storrer, Lee Stafford and Averi Bulla 3. Julie and Greg Mitchell 4. Ross Macon and Marvin Fraz 5. Kimbra Watson and Neila Malcom photos by Heather Ladd

3

4

Good Times Celebration Barbecue Cook-Off

5

1

On September 8, the Chamber of Commerce hosted the Good Times Celebration Barbecue Cook-Off. Marking its 16th year, the event featured nearly 100 cooking teams that prepared more than five tons of meat, including ribs and brisket, with entertainment provided by Tom Velasquez and the Global Nomads.

1. Kara Hicks and Aidan Hilton 2. Sam and Dolores Scott 3. Angela Waters and Jenny Edwards 4. Patty Pena, Alice Lugo and Alex Espinal 5. (rear) David Applegate, Phil Banner and Curtis Nazworth, (front) Julian Saenz, Kyle Langford, Billy Morin and Bryce Banner photos by Neil Starkey

3

16

4

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

5

2

The Eleventh Annual TM

Gift and Craft Show Sat., October 29, 2011 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Sun., October 30, 2011 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm

All-weather Coat $98

Amarillo Civic Center South Exhibit Hall Admission: $4.00

(Children 12 and under are free) Benefiting:

Sharing Hope Ministry

Proceeds allow Sharing Hope Ministry to continue providing services for women who are incarcerated or who are in addiction rehabilitation facilities.

352-7575 2500 Paramount

RECEIVE $1.00 OFF

One Regular Admission

with this ad (One discount per ad)

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

17

the way i see it

Jon Mark Beilue

Cost of college is a real education M

y favorite good-old-days story of the cost of a college education comes from Mark White, Amarillo attorney and the face on 1,847 billboards in town promoting his start at Amarillo College.

He did get his start at AC in the fall of 1975. He lived at home. His total tuition was $60. During that first semester, he was offered a $50 scholarship to play in a jazz ensemble at school. So the total cost of attending college his first semester? $10.

I want to laugh and cry. I well remember those quaint times when an average person could afford to go to college. In the mid- to late-1970s, public costs were $4 a semester hour. A full 15-hour load would run $60. That’s not a misprint.

Legend has it those were the Camelot Collegiate Days. A person could have a summer job, maybe work part-time during school, and with a little help from home, that was enough to get through the year with room, board, education and a little fun. And a job was waiting at the end. (By the way, what was a student loan?)

That seems as charming today as talking about the one-room schoolhouse with the schoolmarm teaching five different grades to kids named Alfalfa and Buckwheat.

I’ll cut to the chase here. We have two sons in college. One can see the end and the other is just getting started on what I will call “Cha-Ching: Hand It Over to Good Old State U.” So I need an extra job. What’s the market like for escort services?

If I got in on a corrupt Ponzi scheme, how long can I go without getting caught and would it be worth prison?

Yes, they’re crimes, but no more crime than the cost of college. I can hear older parents now: Welcome to my world. It’s not that I’ve lived in a vacuum, unaware of rocketing costs, but for the longest time, there were other, more pressing financial problems. “$125 for a baseball bat? Son, I don’t know.”

“A cell phone at that age? Why?” But we knew college was looming. We could hear the “Jaws” music.

You save while trying to eke out a living for today. You tell your mother you will build a statue of her one day for investing in the late, great Texas Tomorrow Fund for her grandkids.

Still, the cost of college is a crime against humanity – against middleclass humanity. If I were to list every eye-popping figure of the spiraling costs, I wouldn’t stop until page 47.

But here are a few favorites: • College tuition and fees rose 439 percent from 1982 to 2007.

That towers over increases in medical care, housing and food,

18

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

according to CNN. • The average cost to attend a public university this past decade rose 47 percent, according to the College Board.

• College student loans are approaching $1 trillion (that’s with a ‘t’), which is more than all U.S. households combined owe on credit card debt.

• In the past 30 years, the list price level of tuition and fees has risen sixfold, while the consumer price index has increased just 2.5 times, according to Forbes.

• At least 400,000 qualified students could not get into college in 2010 because of costs. Pell Grants, that used to pay for 84 percent of college costs in 1975, now pay for just 33 percent.

There are a myriad of reasons why college costs have outstripped any other industry: rising salaries, bloated administration, more and bigger facilities, state funding cuts, the increased supply and demand of more college students, and the sticky wicket of the federal government and the college system in the role of student loans.

The business of college is just that, a business, but it’s a borderline racket, from the costs of books to the cost to park. It’s often a useful, worthwhile racket, but a racket nonetheless. Yes, there are scholarships, but have the number and cost of scholarships kept pace with the cost of attending? You know the answer.

I would love to hear some pointy head climb out of his ivory tower and argue that notion, defend why college costs should out-inflate anything else and that $80,000 for four years of public higher education is an absolute bargain.

While costs continue to skyrocket along with years of student-loan debt, the return on investment becomes less and less.

High unemployment gets worse and there are more graduates with what Gerald Celente, director of the Trends Research Institute, calls “degrees of worthlessness.”

My favorite bad new-days story is a personal one. Once upon a time, a student stayed in a dorm and for that, also got a parking sticker. Now, at my alma mater, some genius came up with Jon Mark Beilue is a columnist for the the idea that charging Amarillo Globe-News. $7,800 a year for a He can be reached at dorm and food just jon.beilue@amarillo.com wasn’t quite enough, so or 345.3318. now there’s an annual $230 parking fee.

That guy is probably a dean by now. am

Sunset Art Gallery of Amarillo “Friendliest Gallery in Texas”

Featured Artist: Wes Hyde

First Friday Artwalk October 7, 2011 5-9 p.m.

Sculptors Cathey Delisle James Roybal

Jim Gilmore Bev Steigerwald

Jim Ward Don Webster

Painters Carl J. Smith Pat Dagnon Guido Frick Ramon Kelley V. Noe

Anita Louise West Joshua Sorenson Benjamin Kelley Bonnie Williams Cecy Turner

Nelda Sheets Bud Heiss Richard Alan Nichols Rick Howell Charles Bunnell

Fine Art and Sculptures 3701 Plains Blvd. #122 Amarillo, Texas

(806) 353-5700

www.sunsetartgalleryofamarillo.com Voted Best Gallery in Amarillo! - Thank you Art Lovers

Lea>n

SHOW INFO

Lea>n

SHOW INFO

step-by-step expert cooking techniques

Tuesday, October 18, 2011 Meet Lea>n Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts Meet Lea>n Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Show starts at 6:30 p.m. step-by-step expert cooking techniques

SHOW INFO

SHOW INFO

Tickets on sale now through Panhandle

people like you who expert lovestep-by-step to cook cooking techniques

people like you who love to cook Tickets

General Admission tickets $13 in advance and $18 day of event

Receive

step-by-step expert Receive Meet cooking techniques a free gift bag filled with

people like you who greatlove products, to cook coupons & Taste of Home a free gift bag filled with magazines great products, coupons

VIP tickets & Taste of Home $43 in advance and $48 day of event includes:

magazines

• Premier seating • Early Admittance (4 p.m.)

• Backstage tour with culinary specialists • Access to VIP Lounge with heavy hors d’oeuvres and dessert bar • “Taste of Home Fresh and Easy Cookbook”

Enj~y

Meet

Receive a free gift bag filled with Enj~y great products, coupons people like you who love to cook

Receive

& Taste ofcooking Home entertaining magazines demos by our top entertaining cooking culinary specialists

demos by our top Call 345.3363 for more information or email culinary specialists susie.self@amarillo.com.

SponSored locally by:

a free gift bag filled with great products, coupons & Taste of Home magazines entertaining cooking

Enj~y

demos by our top culinary specialists

Enj~y PRESENTED nATIOnALLY BY :

RESENTED nATIOnALLY BY

entertaining cooking demos by our top culinary specialists

PRESENTED nATIOnALLY BY

tasteofhome.com/cooking-schools tasteofhome.com/cooking-schools

PRESENTED nATIOnALLY BY

dress code

Animal O

Instincts

nce again, animal prints are being spotted everywhere.

Unleash your animal instincts with fierce patterns, but beware of going too wild. Keep your look tame by updating a classic outfit with daring, yet elegant accessories.

photos by Pam Lary Photography

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

21

dress code

Clockwise from top: Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent faux fur vest $228, j. Winston Zebra belt $69, Talbots Society for Scarves wrap $46, Tobacco Leaf Boutique botkier “Trigger” clutch $275, Raffkind’s Clothiers Zebra print clutch $14, Ruby’s Accessories Gifts & More Donald J. Pliner “Major” leopard wash suede boots $265, Dillard’s Christie Frazier Designs handbag $108, Riley Blue Calvin Klein “Jordan” bootie $139, Dillard’s FRAAS SCARF $50, Top Notch Outfitters

22

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

Clockwise from top: collectioneighteen scarf $38, Dillard’s Tasha Polizzi Collection jacket $178, Tobacco Leaf Boutique Two’s Company wrap $40, Lilly Finch Tasha Polizzi Collection bag $268, Tobacco Leaf Boutique Calvin Klein “Sierra” pumps $129; Sam Edelman “Uma” boots $250, Dillard’s

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

23

dress code

Clockwise from top: Merona cloche hat $16.99, Target Silk scarf $34, Talbots Cartise jacket $290, Tobacco Leaf Boutique Sofft “Rieta” Mary Jane pumps $109; Michael Michael Kors bag $248, Dillard’s HYDE Collection belt $98, Raffkind’s Clothiers Gianni Bini “The Beat” boots $99.99, Dillard’s

24

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

Clockwise from top: echodesign $38 wrap, Dillard’s Sisters Outerwear leopard jacket $122, Riley Blue Juicy Couture tote $228, Janey’s at 2500 Sperry Topsiders “Princeton Leopard Pony” $134, George’s Shoes not rated peep-toe heels $49, Raffkind’s Clothiers Duffel $199, Talbots

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

25

home

Hands of Time W

ith daylight saving time quickly approaching, many of us dread the loss of those extra hours of sunlight.

Instead of letting time pass you by, put your best face forward by displaying modern timepieces with a retro twist.

photos by Pam Lary Photography

Retro-inspired wall clock $29.99, Hobby Lobby

26

Sterling & Noble alarm clock $13.49, Target

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

Timeworks Incorporated wall clock $110, Panache

Pocket watch-inspired wall clock $49.99, Hobby Lobby

Timeworks Incorporated pendulum clock $249, Grammercy Road

Timeworks Incorporated wristwatch-inspired tabletop alarm clock $89, Red Door Antiques

Clock Co. wooden clock $72.50, Panache

Sterling & Noble wall clock $25.89, Target

Ghost clock $120, Parie Designs

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

27

Cover Story

28

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

Buffing Up

by Drew Belle Zerby

WTAMU grows its brand and prepares for the future as it marks its 101st year photos by Davy Knapp

W

WTAMU President, J. Patrick O’Brien, stands in front of the old Ag Science Building, soon to house the Department of Engineering.

hen President J. Patrick O’Brien arrived at West Texas A&M University in 2006, it didn’t take him long to adapt to West Texas culture. After he was appointed to the position, members of the Ag Development Association took the Loyola University transplant to West Texas Western Store in Canyon and had him fitted for Western boots and a Stetson. While he may not sport a cowboy hat on a regular basis, rest assured, you’ll see him in a pair of boots.

“For a business guy from New Orleans, that’s saying he understands what’s important,” says Dr. Don Topliff, dean of the College of Agriculture, Science, and Engineering. “Plus, I think he figured out boots are fairly comfortable.”

Since stepping foot on WTAMU’s 176-acre campus, President O’Brien has initiated crucial changes to the university. What began in 1910 as West Texas State Normal College with 152 students and a single classroom, then later a teacher’s college, has grown into a public state university boasting more than 8,000 students, 61 undergraduate programs, 45 master’s degree programs and one doctoral program. For the second year in a row, the university earned top-tier status in the U.S. News and World Report’s, “America’s Best Colleges” and The Princeton Review named WTAMU to the “Best in the West” as a master’s level college.

President O’Brien’s predecessor, Russell C. Long, provided a head start for the campus makeover. O’Brien picked up where Long left off, including the completion of the pedestrian mall, a popular gathering spot for students. In 2002, the university began a four-phase, $6-million renovation to the Virgil Henson Activities Center that includes a 40-foot climbing wall and a $2 million pool equipped with a water slide and lazy river. That same year, the groundbreaking of the First United Bank Center marked the university’s first sign of new construction in more than two decades. Before the opening of the Sybil B. Harrington Fine Arts Complex in 2006, WTAMU had not seen a modern academic edifice erected in more than 25 years.

“It has been my desire from the start to ensure that West Texas A&M is a first-choice institution – first choice for students, for faculty and staff, and for employers,” President O’Brien says in an email. “When prospective students are thinking about pursuing a university education in a field in which we have a degree program, I want WT to be their first choice. When a prospective faculty or staff member is thinking of a university in which to be employed, I want WT to be their first choice. And, when an employer is looking for a graduate to hire, I want West Texas A&M to be their first choice.”

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

29

Under President O’Brien’s leadership, the once-quiet university has started making some noise. From 2006 onward, enrollment has steadily increased 3 to 4 percent every year and has reached its largest student population this semester, with less than 50 percent derived from the Panhandle, says Dr. Neal Weaver, vice president of Institutional Advancement. That milestone is a direct result of President O’Brien’s effort to rebrand the university and transform its image, he says. It was a mere four years ago the university adopted the familiar slogan, “Discover the Buff in You.” Before President O’Brien came along, “Our brand was whatever anybody wanted to think about us,” Dr. Weaver admits. “It’s the first time we really took control of our brand and how we wanted to be thought of… and saying, ‘This is who we are,’ instead of letting everybody else define us.”

During this past year alone, WTAMU has welcomed a $32-million state-of-the-art residence hall in an attempt to shift from a commuter campus to a residential one, and a $21.8-million sports park. In 2008, the upperclassman living quarters, Buff Hall, opened, and another modern residence hall is anticipated. On August 8, faculty and students gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Jack B. Kelley Student Center, a $10.9-million expansion to the 43-year-old building. Mary Moody Northen Recital Hall has undergone Phase I of its interior renovations and the old Ag Science building is currently undergoing a $10-million renovation to make room for the emergent engineering department, which will house the mechanical and civic engineering students and save space for two future engineering curriculums. “[President O’Brien] came and whipped this place into shape,” commends assistant professor of mechanical engineering, Dr. Emily Hunt, as the JBK Center vibrates from construction. “It’s been amazing, what he’s done for the campus.”

While the aesthetics and image of WTAMU has altered tremendously, the university has not always thrived, says Dr. James Hallmark, provost and vice president of academic affairs.

“I’ve seen it transform from kind of a sleepy, quiet, injured university to a university that is really doing remarkable things that are recognized on a national and international level,” he says.

Leaving a professorship at Wichita State University in 1991, Dr. Hallmark became an assistant professor of communications at WTAMU. When he arrived, WTAMU was in the midst of conflict and debt and the campus was in dire need of renovation, he says. The residence halls were outdated, the JBK Student Center was too small to house the student population and the Physical Plant lacked progression. However, a fellow faculty member told Dr. Hallmark the university was working hard to resolve its issues, offering the professor faith in the institution.

“It turned out he was right,” Dr. Hallmark discloses. “When I came there was just a lot of really talented and good people here, both faculty, staff and students. And around that core, we began to build.”

The university needed a “period of healing” before it could begin to lay a concrete foundation, Dr. Hallmark says. The first step in rebuilding WTAMU began with a deserving candidate: the agriculture department. The university encountered tough economic times during the 1980s and the department of agriculture was incorporated with natural sciences and nursing, says Dr. Topliff.

Cattle feed made at the Nance Ranch feed yard

I

n the 1990s, talk arose of dismissing the agriculture program. The president at the time, Russell C. Long, immediately argued that proposal, Dr. Hallmark says.

President Long responded, “I’m not stupid. I can look out the window when I drive some place and recognize that agriculture is important around here. If we’re going to be the university for this region, we need to have a strong ag program,” Dr. Hallmark recalls.

“Instead of killing it, we invested in it,” Dr. Hallmark says, “and brought in some outstanding faculty, some outstanding leaders. We literally have ag faculty that are the best in the world in what they do.

30

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

Dr. Topliff (middle) instructs students Justin Wallace (left) and Ryan Butler.

In this day and time, if you’re not smart, if you’re not business-savvy, if you’re not up on technology, you’re not going to survive in this industry. Our students are as likely to be riding a corporate chair as they are to be riding a saddle.”

- Dr. Don Topliff, dean of Agriculture, Science and Engineering

Students make morning feeding rounds at the feed yard.

For a school this size, that’s pretty good.”

Five years ago, agriculture departed its roommate of several years, nursing, and was renamed the College of Agriculture, Science and Engineering. With more than 1,600 students in its college, agriculture offers the sole Ph.D. program at the university.

Appointed to dean in December, Dr. Topliff left Oklahoma State University, where he was the head of the agricultural division, to work at the WT in 1998.

“Agriculture has been responsible for the majority of research on this campus ever since I’ve been here,” he says. “Helping solve problems is in my DNA so that was very appealing to me,” says Dr. Topliff, who grew up on a farm and feed yard operation in Goodland, Kansas.

The agriculture department’s primary focus is to solve what Dr. Topliff calls “now-problems,” issues pertaining to everyday life in the Panhandle, from improving air quality and the cattle feeding industry to more efficiently using resources from the Ogallala Aquifer.

The college annually spends about $6 million for research, he says. The 474-acre Nance Ranch feed yard, which serves as one the agriculture department’s primary research facilities for faculty members and students, was passed on to WTAMU by owner Lucille Nance Jones in 1971. One ongoing project, for example, is researching the use of ethanol byproducts in the cattle feeding industry, Dr. Topliff says.

“That’s research that has improved the competitiveness of our cattle feeding industry worldwide,” he claims.

It’s no surprise agriculture is a driving force behind the Panhandle economy. Every semester the college graduates capable students that bring their skills and apply their knowledge to the agriculture industry, proving WTAMU prepares its students for every aspect of this

$15-billion, regional industry.

“In this day and time, if you’re not smart, if you’re not businesssavvy, if you’re not up on technology, you’re not going to survive in this industry. Our students are as likely to be riding a corporate chair as they are to be riding a saddle,” Dr. Topliff asserts with a hint of a grin.

A

fter the university devoted itself to revitalizing the agriculture department, it began to tackle its next academic hurdle: to promote and progress the fine arts programs, Dr. Hallmark says.

Established five years ago, the Sybil B. Harrington Fine Arts Complex opened its doors to a whole new era of technology and education.

The old fine arts building, which served WT for more than 50 years, was demolished in 2010 to make room for a parking lot for the rapidly growing university.

“The mission of WTAMU is not only to provide superior education grounded in the liberal arts, but also to serve as a cultural center for the region,” President O’Brien says. “A strong College of Fine Arts and Humanities is vital to providing a liberal arts education to WT students… By emphasizing the liberal arts, we educate the next generation of graduates whose responsibility it will be to transmit our civilization, our culture and our values to yet the next generation.”

The complex features top-of-the-line technology to serve students in the Departments of Art, Theatre and Dance, Communication, and Music and provides students with the space and equipment to design, produce and stage their own productions.

“I think this has been a huge step,” says Dr. Jessica Mallard, interim dean of the Sybil B. Harrington Fine Arts and Humanities and professor of communication studies, as she walks across the dimly lit stage of the Branding Iron Theatre. “I think our students were always talented but October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

31

(From left) Bryan Samuel, Colton Harada, Dani Morton and Izaak Chavez prepare for a broadcast using the green screen.

we didn’t have the ability to recruit them and showcase them in such a visible way where Amarillo and people from further areas can see.”

The complex features smart classrooms, modern studios for the university’s student-run programs, including the weekly newspaper, The Prairie, the TV station, News One, and the radio station, 91.1 The One and three performance spaces: The Branding Iron Theatre, which seats more than 300 guests, the Happy State Bank Studio black box theatre, and the 125-seat Recital Hall.

“That kind of thinking is something most universities don’t do,” Dr. Hallmark declares. “They just build a box and say, ‘Here’s your recital hall.’ In our Fine Arts Complex, I think maybe that’s symbolic for why the university is where it is because that’s the way we do things here.

We’re not just building a recital hall. We want to build the best recital hall.”

Dr. James Rennier, who served as dean of Fine Arts and Humanities for four years before being named special assistant for academic projects in August, implemented key changes in the college. Since 2006,

32

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

the music department has increased 25 percent to include 150 students and the communication department has grown 20 percent. After the college donated its collection of pianos to the Community Connect program in Dalhart, Dr. Rennier obtained four Steinway pianos. The acquisition of the Vermillion Editions, Ltd., the university print shop at Sunset Center, is a giant leap forward, he says. Founded by Steven M. Anderson, the press offers a plethora of printing services from screen printing and letter press to lithography and intaglio.

Broadcasting students have the opportunity to work on state-ofthe-art technology in the AT&T High Definition Production Studio, equipment major universities do not have access to, Dr. Rennier says.

“We’re changing that humility and modesty which I think is part of the area to becoming, ‘No, we’re the real deal,” Dr. Rennier lauds as he leans back in his office chair. “When I first got here people were like, ‘We’re just little ole’ WT.’ We were lacking institutional self esteem…

The college is really a dynamic place right now. It was quiet when I got here. Now there’s some buzz.”

“I believe in order for us to truly grow, we have to go from best-kept secret to the best-told story. You do that by visibility. You do that with quality.”

- Dr. James Rennier, former dean of the College of Fine Arts and Humanities

Stephen Crandall, assistant professor of theatre, coaches students Reilly Downes and Levi Gore.

Dr. Rennier has taken the rich tradition of the arts in this area and enhanced that reputation by making fine arts a more attainable career for students and a more tangible activity for citizens of the community.

“I believe in order for us to truly grow, we have to go from best-kept secret to the best-told story,” he says. “You do that by visibility. You do that with quality.”

O

Dr. Emily Hunt, assistant professor of mechanical engineering, conducts research in the lab.

nce the plan to restore fine arts was set in motion, the university set out to create a strong engineering department, a difficult endeavor considering the prestige of Texas Tech University, which had an entire college devoted to this degree field, Dr. Hallmark says. WTAMU officials had to convince the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board that the local economy needed to educate and train its own engineers. “[Engineering] is a profession that allows students from this area to stay in the area, find jobs and help local businesses grow and expand their impact on the region,” Dr. Weaver says. “And that’s our role, to help grow the economy locally and to allow students from this area to stay in this area.”

The ABET-accredited mechanical engineering program, introduced in 2003, was the first discipline to be offered. In 2010, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating board granted a discipline in civil engineering, and has approved an environmental engineering program for 2012, following electrical engineering. Once incorporated, the engineering department will become its own college. With a 100 percent employment rate of engineer graduates and 75 percent accepting jobs in the Panhandle, this expansion is a necessary measure, Dr. Topliff says.

“I think this region has needed engineering for a long time,” Dr. Hunt acknowledges. “We’re just pumping engineers into the Panhandle, which is wonderful.”

Joining the ranks of the College of Agriculture, Science and Engineering in 2005, the Canyon native is helping steer mechanical engineering into the future. Honored with the Young Investigator Award from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) for her project on energetic nano-materials, Dr. Hunt is the backbone of the mechanical engineering’s research team and author of “Nanostructured Metallic Alloys: Synthesis, Properties, and Applications.”

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

33

Student Colin Bjostad and Dr. Hunt work with nano materials.

“That’s not for small schools,” Dr. Hallmark says of the Texas Tech graduate. “That’s for everybody. That’s competing against MIT and Harvard and everybody else. She’s the best. And she’s here. That’s amazing to me.”

In addition to overseeing a two-year study on explosive materials, funded by B&W Pantex, Dr. Hunt is spearheading a project to produce a metal alloy resistant to bacterial growth, a scientific innovation in health and safety. She and one of her former students, Colin Bjostad, traveled to Europe during the summer to conduct preliminary tests. Funded by the National Science Foundation and DTRA, Dr. Hunt received news in August that the material was being patented. “[The research] is great for the school as a whole and the engineering department,” exclaims Colin, who graduated this past May with a degree in mechanical engineering and is presently pursuing his MBA at WTAMU. “Anytime our research leads to something that could put the school’s name out there is great, especially for the engineering department because we’re developing new things that aren’t around anywhere else. It’s really exciting.”

Currently sharing quarters with the nursing laboratories, members of the engineering department are looking forward to moving into the vacant Ag Science Building, which will include classrooms, offices and lab space. The move, expected to occur within the next few months, is evidence of the department’s physical and academic development, Colin says.

“It means it’s growing,” he says. “We’re moving into that building that is probably at least double the size of what we have right now.

The university as a whole is growing, but specifically our department is getting a lot bigger.”

A

lthough academics is a fundamental factor in any institution of higher learning, there’s no denying athletics provides a university with essential exposure. A talented sports team is a catalyst for drawing potential students and faculty as well as a community fanbase. And an attractive sports park only adds to that appeal.

34

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

Metal alloy surrounded by bacteria

[Engineering] is a profession that allows students from this area to stay in the area, find jobs and help local businesses grow and expand their impact on the region.”

- Dr. Neal Weaver, vice president of Institutional Advancement

The Buffs practice at Buffalo Sports Park.

The fields at Buffalo Sports Park are composed of three types of turf and recycled materials.

“If we can get people to look at our university because of the success we have in athletics, to take a look at our degree programs, to get to meet our faculty, if that happens because we win a football game or our softball team does well, then that’s great,” says Michael McBroom, director of intercollegiate athletics. “That’s the role we play and we take it seriously.”

As the athletic director, Michael oversees 15 sports teams, 500 student athletes and hosts close to 100 sporting events on campus every year, he says. With an increasing number of student athletes and interest in WTAMU athletics, Michael understood the addition of an all-inclusive sports complex was a critical move in building the university.

The new Buffalo Sports Park, funded by student-approved fees, has naturally become a hot spot of university activity. The park touts varsity fields for softball, baseball, soccer and track; practice fields for football and the marching band; intramural fields for softball, flag football and soccer; a running/walking trail; open park space; basketball and tennis courts as well as sand volleyball courts. The athletic fields, composed of three types of turf with recycled products inside the field, can accumulate 10 inches of water an hour and effectively drain.

“Anytime you have outstanding recreational facilities inside a community it adds to the quality of life. It’s a center of activity every evening on our campus and I think that helps people see what life will be like when you come to WT as a student,” Michael describes.

In June, the university broke ground on a $4-million Buffalo Athletic Center, funded by private donations. The center, which will house football locker rooms, an athletic training center, a weight room, offices, and athlete study halls, is the “final piece of the puzzle” in strengthening the athletic department and university as a whole, Michael says.

“Our objective here is to be a first-choice institution,” Michael explains. “We believe we can be the best athletic program in the country in NCAA Division II. In order to do that you have to have fantastic facilities and Buffalo Sports Park, Buffalo Athletic Center in conjunction with Kimbrough Stadium and the First United Bank Center… give us about as good a facility as you can find anywhere for a school like ours in the country.”

This year, Michael believes WTAMU’s sports teams will exceed expectations and have the potential to become the top Division II players in the country. Over the past five years, athletic programs experienced their most successful five-year run, Michael says, taking home 29 championships and increasing the student athlete GPA by nearly 30 percent. With Buffalo Sports Park, a fantastic coaching staff, and scholarships, the university is well-equipped to advocate its athletics, Michael says.

“If you have facilities and scholarships and great coaches, that’s 90 percent of the battle right there,” Michael emphasizes. “I think Amarillo and Canyon provide us a great foundation to be able to have one of the country’s top athletic programs and doing it the right way for us is winning and graduating.”

While WTAMU is getting closer and closer to its ultimate vision, there is still much progress to be made, President O’Brien says.

Over the course of the next decade, he anticipates an increase in enrollment and expects the university to satisfy the educational needs of the region and state.

“I believe it will continue to be a catalyst for economic growth for our region, as well as a cultural center that celebrates the arts, music and theatre,” President O’Brien asserts. “I believe the reputation and stature of the university will achieve new and higher levels as the institution engages in continuous improvement and develops new programs to meet the ever-changing needs of the regional and global market places… [and] WT’s faculty and students will continue to conduct relevant applied research that will strengthen local industries and improve the quality of life for the citizens of the state.” am October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

35

America’s Horse in Art Show Steeped in History, Esteem Amarilloans should be sitting on their high horses with their shirt buttons poppin’ with pride over an art exhibit now on display at the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum.

“America’s Horse in Art is a show of national interest, one of the better ones of its kind in the country and should be a source of local pride,” says Ross Middleton, museum director. The fourth annual art show and sale, which opened Aug. 13 and runs through Nov. 12, features 85 equine pieces including paintings and pencil drawings to sculpture from more than 30 nationally-known Western artists.

Respect for the show became evident opening night as a record-breaking 300 people attended the event and purchased a recordsetting 17 pieces.“That’s 200 more people than last year,” Ross declares.“This is the very best show we’ve done, and it’s better because the quality of art is so high. It takes awhile for a show to get its legs and we are at the tipping point with sales going up. Artists want to show with other high-quality artists.”

The subject matter appeals to just about everyone, from adults to children.“There is a unique quality about a horse,” describes Ross.“These artists all have personal relationships with horses, either work or leisure. The horse plays a huge role in the Western lifestyle.”

Not only should “America’s Horse in Art” lasso local pride and esteem, but the museum facility should also foster a new-found discovery for some area residents.“This museum welcomes the public,” Ross says.“I always hear people say ‘I’ve lived here all my life and never been out there…I just thought it was for the association.’ Locally, it’s important for people to understand we are a history museum, we have the same history, just a different slice.”

The Spanish brought horses to this part of the country in the 1500s, found the living conditions to be dry and dismal, abandoned their livestock and left. Later, the Europeans brought the English-bred horse and the American Quarter Horse was born. “This horse is uniquely American,” explains Ross.“Quarter Horses in other countries all came from here.”

The American Quarter Horse Association, which is housed next door to the museum, has around 300,000 members from around the world. Along with the United States, members live in Europe, Mexico, South America, China and all points in between.“Germany is our biggest source of members outside the USA,” says Lauren Walsh, director of membership.“We have 6,000 members in Germany.”

The top 10 areas where members reside are Texas, California, Oklahoma, Colorado, Ohio, Missouri, Alberta, Canada, Florida, Germany and Kansas.“That accounts for 41 percent of our membership,” Lauren says. It’s no surprise then that 20,000 to 30,000 people visit the museum every year.“It’s a popular stop along Route 66,” Ross says.“We see lots of Germans and South Americans.” Ross, however, wants the “local public to be more involved” through visits and children’s activities such as summer camps and Nights at the Museum.

And what does a first-time visitor encounter at the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum? Along with breathtaking art, the contemporary building welcomes people with larger-than-life bronze statues, showcases the history and modern activities of the American Quarter Horse, offers audio-visual and hands-on exhibits, a theater that entertains and educates, historically significant artifacts, and touch-screen digital formats that exhibit members of the Hall of Fame and member contributions within a timeline depicting when they made their impact on the breed.The Quarter Horse Outfitters, a well-stocked Western gift shop and boutique, is near the lobby entrance.

This year marks the 20th anniversary for the Hall of Fame & Museum. Ross, who has been with the organization since the beginning, said they celebrated the anniversary in July with a National Day of the Cowboy. “We had 1,000 people attend that one-day event,” he says.

A portion of the proceeds from the “America’s Horse in Art” show and sale will benefit the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame to preserve the history of the American Quarter Horse. Museum hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday at 2601 East I-40.

Art Show & SAle • AuguSt 13 – November 12 Art will be available for viewing and purchase online at quarterhorsemuseum.com beginning August 15.

For more information, call 806-376-5181 or e-mail artshow@aqha.org.

With generous support of the Carl and Carolyn Swanson Foundation and these sponsors:

inspire

The End is (Always) Near Jason Boyett

Y

ou probably saw the billboards back in the spring: Judgment Day, May 21, 2011. You may also have seen the caravan of graphicwrapped RVs that rolled through town a few months earlier, and you can’t have missed all the chatter about it on TV, radio and online in the weeks leading up to that date.

A California radio broadcaster named Harold Camping predicted that the Christian Rapture would occur May 21, accompanied by a worldwide succession of planet-rocking earthquakes. Camping gave a timeline for this international “day of judgment,” and announced that five months later – this month, October 21, 2011 – God would destroy the entire universe.

“It is absolutely going to happen without any question at all,” Camping told New York Magazine on May 11.

It didn’t happen. There were no trumpet blasts, no earthquakes, and no suddenly-driverless cars careening down I-40. Whew.

Two days later, Camping still insisted his date-setting had been correct. He declared May 21 had, in fact, been an “invisible” Judgment Day – it was spiritual rather than physical – and that the upcoming end of the universe was still on schedule.

“It won’t be spiritual on October 21,” he told reporters. Camping proposed God had chosen to spare humanity all the chaos and despair of the inevitable post-Rapture societal breakdown, but the world would be destroyed come October. Armageddon was still on.

So you’ve been warned. You’ve got less than a month to live. What do you do?

In 2005, I wrote a book called Pocket Guide to the Apocalypse, about the end of the world. It highlighted as many failed doomsday predictions and Last Days mongering as I could dig up. So anytime somebody predicts the Second Coming or identifies the Antichrist or otherwise proclaims the end is nigh – which is to say, at least once a

38

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

I won’t be worrying that the end is nigh, but I’ll do my best to live as if it’s right around the corner.” year since the book released – I get requests for radio, TV and podcast interviews.

I had a busy few weeks in May, thanks to Harold Camping. This month may be the same.

During these interviews, there are two things I like to do. The first is to remind people that mankind has been predicting the end of the world for as long as history has been recorded, from the apostle Paul (who, in the first century, expected Christ’s return in his lifetime) to Martin Luther (he predicted the end in 1600) and even Billy Graham (he suggested we only had a couple of years left in 1949).

When it comes to predicting the end of the world, the success rate for human beings is exactly zero-for-every-time. That’s an awful batting average. Whenever someone says he or she knows with absolute certainty when the world will end, the best and most reasonable response is to ignore them. It takes a stunning amount of arrogance for

one person to believe he alone is correct about something everyone else in history has gotten wrong.

But the second thing I like to bring up is that maybe being confronted with a deadline isn’t such a bad thing. Life doesn’t come with an expiration date. Unless you’re diagnosed with some kind of sudden-onset terminal disease, or you find yourself in an inspirational movie with Morgan Freeman, you’re not likely to ever be told you have three weeks to live.

That’s why we procrastinate. That’s why we waste time on dumb things. That’s why we can’t believe how big our kids or grandchildren have grown. That’s why we snap out of a daze and realize it’s almost 2012 – but wasn’t it just January?

We forget our own mortality. We do a lot of existing when we ought to be living.

A few years ago, my in-laws moved into a smaller home from the place they’d lived since the mid-1970s. They were stunned by the amount of junk they had accumulated after 30 years in one house.

Half of the packing process involved taking things out of the attic and dividing it into one of three piles: stuff to keep, stuff to sell and stuff to toss.

They sold a bunch of old stuff. They threw away even more.

Moving is a pain, but it has one fantastic benefit: It makes you take inventory. It frees you to extricate yourself from junk. It forces you to decide which possessions matter and which should be trashed.

What’s the point? What if doomsday predictions gave us the same opportunity to take inventory, not of our possessions, but of our lives?

It’s fun to laugh at the overconfident doomsayers, but what if we took them just seriously enough to shake loose our personal stagnation?

The universe probably won’t be destroyed October 21, but… what if? What if I knew my life would end that day?

What things would I toss from my daily existence?

What clutter would I get rid of?

What would I keep?

If I truly had three weeks left with my family and friends, what would I do with those precious days? Who would I reconnect with?

What time-wasters would I cut out and where would I focus my energies? What leaps of faith would I finally take? What fears would I face? What new experiences would I embrace? What words would I say instead of swallowing them like usual? What loose ends would I tie up?

And most importantly: Why am I not doing that stuff already?

Let’s pretend the world really is going to end in a few weeks.

Let’s ask ourselves those questions and answer them as seriously as possible.

And then, when we find we’re still here come October 22, let’s live out the answers because life is a precarious gift and life is short.

Humankind may not expire all at once in a flaming apocalypse, but our individual lives could end at any moment.

Tonight. Tomorrow. The day after that. Are you ready? Am I? Thanks, Harold Camping. You may be a misguided old kook, but I appreciate the wake-up call. I won’t be worrying that the end is nigh, but I’ll do my best to live as if it’s right around the corner. am

Jason Boyett Jason is an Amarillo native and the author of several books, including O Me of Little Faith and the Pocket Guide series. He blogs at jasonboyett.com.

Introduces

AMARILLO GLOBE-NEWS

BEST 2009

AMARILLO GLOBE-NEWS

OF AMARILLO

BEST 2010 OF AMARILLO

4219 SW 45th • 806-322-2033 (45th & Western across from Drug Emporium)

October is crisp days and cool nights, a time to curl up around the dancing flame and sink into a good book.

Dudley E. Freeman, M.D. • Sarah Bergeron, RNC, WHNP • George Barnett, M.D Cullen Hopkins, M.D. • Gregory A. May, M.D.

7620 Wallace Blvd.

Amarillo, Tx. 79124 806-359-5468

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

39

what’s cooking?

Sponsored by Little Brown House

Picks Patch of the

Pumpkins are an autumn harvest staple, but this fall gourd is good for much more than a Jack-o’-lantern. Healthy and hearty, pumpkins can be used to make a variety of dishes from pastries and soups to pancakes. Carve out a spot on your plate for a non-traditional, seasonal treat.

photos by Shannon Richardson recipes provided by T AND ANDY PRICE, REAL FOOD Café All serving pieces and linens courtesy of Little Brown House.

For pricing information, visit amarillomagonline.com.

40

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

Quinoa Pumpkin Pancakes

Apple Pumpkin Soup

Pumpkin and Feta Risotto

Pumpkin Cake

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

41

what’s cooking?

Apple Pumpkin Soup

Quinoa Pumpkin Pancakes

2 – 15 ounce cans pumpkin puree 6 cups chicken or vegetable stock 2/3 cups applesauce 2 granny smith or other tart apples, diced 1 small onion, diced 1/2 teaspoon white pepper 1/2 teaspoon sage 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon thyme 1/4 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup half & half Salt Olive oil

Recipe adapted from “Quinoa 365 – the Everyday Superfood” by Patricia Green and Carolyn Hemming

Preheat large soup pot. Drizzle with olive oil. Add diced onion, apples and a little salt; sauté until onions are translucent. Add chicken or vegetable stock, apple sauce and spices. Bring to a boil and cook until apples are very tender.

Add pumpkin and brown sugar and cook for 10 to 15 minutes over medium heat. Use a submersible blender to blend soup until it is smooth. You can also use a countertop blender to blend the soup in batches. Add cream to soup and heat through, but do not boil. Add more cream or water to thin out more if desired. Remove from heat and serve. Garnish with sliced almonds, pumpkin seeds, dried apple slices or hazelnuts.

Pumpkin Cake

Pumpkin and Feta Risotto 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1 1/2 cups sugar 2 large eggs 1 cup pumpkin puree, fresh or canned 1/2 cup warm milk (110 degrees)

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9-by-2-inch round cake pan. Line with parchment, butter the paper; coat pan with flour and tap out excess. In large bowl, sift together flour and next four ingredients; set aside. In bowl of electric mixer fitted with paddle attachment, beat sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Add eggs and beat until combined. Add pumpkin puree and milk; beat until combined. Add reserved flour mixture; beat on low speed until just combined. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake until cake tester inserted into middle comes out clean, about 55 minutes. Transfer cake to wire rack to cool for 20 minutes. Remove cake from pan; cool completely. Using offset spatula, spread icing over top of cake and decorate with walnuts.

Brown Butter Icing 6 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 cups sifted confectioner’s sugar 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 2 to 4 tablespoons milk In small saucepan, melt butter over medium-high heat until nut-brown, about 10 minutes. Remove pan from heat, pour butter into a bowl, leaving burned sediment behind. Add sugar, vanilla and 2 tablespoons milk; stir until smooth. If icing is too thick, add milk until spreading consistency.

42

Measure the flour, sugar, baking powder, soda and spice, then blend in a large bowl. Mix well. Whisk together the milk, pumpkin, eggs and oil in a medium bowl. Add to the flour mixture and stir until just blended. Spray an electric griddle (set to medium heat) with cooking oil. When hot, pour 1/4-cup portions of batter into the pan. Pancake will be ready to flip when you begin to observe bubbles and the underside is brown. Flip and cook the pancake for another 20 to 25 seconds until the center springs back when pressed.

Serve with maple syrup and pecans.

Makes about 15 pancakes (This is a gluten-free recipe.)

Makes about 5 quarts

8 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1 1/2 cups quinoa flour 1/4 cup packed brown sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 3 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice 1 3/4 cups buttermilk or sour milk 1 cup pumpkin purée 2 large eggs 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Maple syrup 1/2 cup toasted pecans

Caramelized Walnuts 1 cup sugar 1 cup large walnut pieces or halves In small skillet, melt sugar over medium-high heat until medium golden, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat. Drop walnuts into melted sugar, working quickly. If sugar hardens, return skillet to low heat and stir several minutes. Using fork, turn walnuts until evenly coated.

Transfer to greased parchment paper to cool.

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

1 small pumpkin 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon butter 1 cup diced onion 1 cup Arborio rice

1/2 cup white wine 6-8 cups broth (chicken or vegetable) 1/2 cup feta cheese Salt and pepper

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut pumpkin into 2-inch thick wedges. Toss with healthy drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle of salt; place on rimmed baking sheet. Roast for up to 1 hour.

Pumpkin should be cooked through and slightly caramelized around edges. Cut roasted pumpkin into 1-2-inch pieces; set aside. In meantime, heat broth to simmer over medium flame; keep hot.

Heat olive oil and butter in large pot over medium heat. Add onion; sauté until translucent, about 2 minutes. Add rice, stirring to coat grains with oil; cook until rice begins to turn translucent, about 2 minutes. Add wine; cook until most is absorbed. Begin adding broth, 1/2 cup at a time.

Stir constantly, waiting for broth to be ¾ absorbed before adding next cup (your spoon should leave a trail that holds for a moment as you drag it across bottom of pan). Risotto is done when rice is al dente. You may not use all of broth. Toward end of cooking process (about 18 to 20 minutes) start tasting and add broth in amounts less than ½ cup.

Add pumpkin at same time as 3rd or 2nd-to-last batch of broth so flavors incorporate well. Turn off heat, stir in feta. Garnish with crumbled feta and pepitas.

Makes 3 to 4 servings

Sweet & Spicy Pepitas 1 cup pepitas 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 3 tablespoons sugar ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon cumin ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika ½ teaspoon chili powder Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Toss pepitas with oil and 2 tablespoons sugar. Bake for about 10 minutes until fragrant and toasted. In meantime, mix remaining sugar, salt and spices. When pepitas come out of oven, immediately toss with spice mix. Allow to cool before serving.

Makes about 1 cup

The

Real Scoop Pumpkin Pointers

The season’s popular ingredient is ripe for the picking Make the most of this versatile gourd with suggestions from T and Andy Price.

• Choose sugar pie pumpkins for cooking. Small and sweet, with dark, orange-colored flesh, they’re perfect for pies, soups, muffins and breads.

• A medium-sized (4-pound) sugar pumpkin should yield around 1½ cups of mashed pumpkin. This puree can be used in all your recipes calling for canned pumpkin.

• Field pumpkins, which are bred for perfect Jack-o’lanterns, tend to be too large and stringy for baking.

• For a festive touch, try serving soup in bowls made from hollowed-out pumpkins. Cut tops off several small pumpkins, remove seeds and scrape inside walls clean. Wash thoroughly with warm water, place pumpkins on a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 30 minutes until hot (this will help keep the soup warm). Ladle soup into “bowls” and serve.

• When using canned pumpkin, look for cans labeled “solid-pack” rather than “pumpkin pie filling,” which have other ingredients added.

• Butternut squash may be substituted for pumpkin.

Find out how to make T’s fresh pumpkin puree at amarillomagonline.com. You can also submit questions and comments for T and Andy and get more advice, whether you’re an expert chef or a novice cook. am

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

43

S p e c i a l Ad v e rt i s i n g S e ct i o n

Pink Pages 2011

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

45

S p e c i a l Ad v e rt i s i n g S e ct i o n

A Positive Outlook Restoring women’s self-image post surgery

by Kay Paine

C

ancer – a hard word to say and a harder word to live with – and its treatment can cause major changes in the way a woman looks, such as surgery for breast cancer or chemotherapy that makes hair fall out. Treatment also can cause negative changes in a woman’s body image. People and products can pave the way to a positive outlook.

Angie Prince-Addington and her mother were diagnosed with a disease that can bring strong women to their knees: breast cancer.

Angie, who owns Classic Image Salon and Hair Alternatives, has been a hair stylist for 28 years. “I had several clients go through chemo, and I felt I was being led to work with patients,” she states. “Then 12 years ago my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and that pushed me. For the last eight years in Dallas, I was a prostheses and wigs specialist.”

Then, the other shoe dropped, and Angie learned she had breast cancer in October 2010.

Angie and her mother are survivors and intend on staying survivors. Angie worked at Baylor All Saints Medical Center in the Joan Katz Breast Center and wanted to bring those therapeutic skills back to Amarillo. She bought back a salon she had owned here 18 years ago.

“Women need to come in and feel they are in a normal hair salon atmosphere,” Angie says. “Losing a breast is hard, but many women say losing their hair is just as hard.”

Angie Prince-Addington, owner of Classic Image Salon and Hair Alternatives, is a breast cancer survivor.

photos by Shannon Richardson

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

47

cover

S p e c i a l Ad v e rt i s i n g S e ct i o n

Wigs and hair care items at Classic Image Salon and Hair Alternatives

Post-surgery products available at Support Hose Plus

Classic Image offers wigs, both synthetic and human hair, and hair pieces, styled and altered to fit. Hats, scarves and other head coverings also are available. Other products include postoperative garments, such as camisoles that help restore symmetry during the healing process, compression bras, prostheses, skin and makeup aids.

Angie helps with the “Look Good, Feel Better” support program for newly diagnosed patients at the American Cancer Society. “Our goal (at Classic Image) is to provide a special environment to help women be themselves again,” she declares.

48

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

Vanda Lancour, owner of Support Hose Plus, and Evelyn Van Deventer, owner of Merle Norman, also provide material comfort to breast cancer patients, which in turn, helps with a positive attitude.

“It helps in the healing process and recovery,” Evelyn says. “With the synthetic hair, you just wash the wigs and shake them out. A wig lets you regain control; you have control and it is something you can do. When you look normal, it makes you feel normal on the inside.”

Many women find the wigs so comfortable that they stay in them even after their hair begins to grow out, Evelyn says.

Merle Norman also carries hair pieces, products to enhance eyelashes and brows and skin care merchandise. Many women diagnosed with cancer are not prepared for the skin-related side effects that often accompany chemo and radiation. “Going through chemo makes the skin very sensitive,” Evelyn explains.

“We have moisturizers that are designed to take the irritation out of the skin.”

S p e c i a l Ad v e rt i s i n g S e ct i o n

Vanda sees first-hand what a difference in self-esteem her prostheses, bras and camisoles make in cancer recovery clients at Support Hose Plus.

“A client will walk in very hesitant and self-conscious,” Vanda says. “When she walks out after a fitting we see what a difference there is, both mental and physical. Mental because what she sees in the mirror reflects the image she has of herself. Physical because after a mastectomy, the body has quite a few adjustments to go through. The shoulders can roll forward; the gait or walk can be thrown off just because a body has lost a few ounces from a lumpectomy or pounds from a mastectomy. Our part is more than just filling a bra or blouse. We help bring her body back into ‘balance’ so she feels good about herself.”

Attitude also plays a great role in recovery. “When a woman feels feminine and feels she looks her best, she feels she is no longer vulnerable,” Vanda says. “Our bras look like the bras you would find at finer department stores. Our clients want bras that look just like everyone else’s.”

The majority of bras at Support Hose Plus include special pockets to the keep the prosthesis in place, as well as prostheses for those who have undergone lumpectomies and are seeking more balance, Vanda says. Support Hose Plus also carries post-operative bathing suits with prostheses.

Physical pain is not the only trauma cancer patients endure.

To lose one’s hair, breasts or to suffer skin irritation as a result of cancer can be just as difficult to bear. However, resources from wigs and prosthesis to special moisturizers and makeup are available to help women maintain confidence and hope.

A display of wigs at Merle Norman

We Support the Cause for a

CURE

Kendall Foot Clinic Michael W. Kendall D.P.M., Ph.D. - Board Certified Podiatrist -

702 Quail Creek Drive

(806) 358-0448

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

49

cover

S p e c i a l Ad v e rt i s i n g S e ct i o n

Fighting Back

Woman’s support system, optimistic outlook helps her beat breast cancer

by Drew Belle Zerby

50

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

Lani Clark works the controls at KGNC FM.

photo by Shannon Richardson

F

or Lani Clark, discovering she had breast cancer was shocking enough. Finding out that the two lumps she felt in her right breast during her monthly test were actually four cancerous tumors was even more astonishing.

However, the KGNC FM radio personality refused to let the disease get the best of her. She saw her mother lose her battle to ovarian cancer and Lani wasn’t about to succumb to it, too. When the nurse walked into the room to break the news to Lani, the then 37-yearold surprised her nurse with her response: “How do I kick its ass?” Lani bravely inquired. “I don’t know where that came from,” she says, shrugging her shoulders. “It just did. It was the first thing that came out of my mouth… I’ve always been that kind of person.”

Diagnosed in October 2007, Lani underwent eight surgeries all together, including a double mastectomy, reconstruction and hysterectomy (as an extra precaution), as well as chemotherapy and radiation treatments, which didn’t go as planned. Although Lani suffered second-and-third-degree burns from radiation and had to have a defibrillator installed in her heart as a result of chemotherapy, her optimistic outlook didn’t waver.

“I made it through,” she sighs. “I just happened to be the one all the bad stuff happened to. But I had to stay positive.”

After learning she would lose her long braids, Lani immediately dropped by her hair stylist’s salon and had her head shaved. Her hair did not completely grow back after chemo so Lani continues to wear wigs, which is fine with her.

“It’s fun because I can change it up and do whatever I want to and when I get hot I can throw it off,” she cheerfully describes. “It’s pretty cool. I like it.”

Lani says she had to stay strong not just for herself, but also for her family. When her mother was in hospice, she promised her she would look after her brother and father once her mother was no longer able. Having witnessed her father’s suffering during her mother’s two-time battle with cancer, and watching her sister pass away from kidney disease, Lani didn’t want her father to have to relive more trauma with her.

The 12 women from Lani’s Bunko group took on the role of caregiver by taking Lani to her appointments, watching over her post surgery and routinely checking on her.

“They all rallied around me,” Lani says. “It’s like having a

group of sisters. They were always there. I never realized getting something like cancer, you really find out who your friends are…

That’s why I call them my Bunko sisters. We’re just a big family and it’s brought us closer.”

Lani also found a support system within her coworkers at the radio station. After receiving a round of chemo, Lani would return home and wake up for work the next day, despite the amount of pain she felt.

“That’s my job. I have to go back to work,” she declares. “It was tough. There were days when I was in so much pain, but I said, ‘I have to be here.’”

Lani says she put up a front at work, pretending she wasn’t suffering, but her coworkers, including her brother, Patrick, looked after her. They offered to give her their vacation days so Lani could take another day off if she felt poorly. At the annual Christmas party, they gave Lani presents, all filled with money. Lani’s final surgery, which took place the Monday before Thanksgiving, prevented the family cook from making dinner, so her coworkers prepared food and brought it to her.

While Lani had a circle of friends to watch over her during her

S p e c i a l Ad v e rt i s i n g S e ct i o n

fight with cancer, she lost touch with some of her friends, making this tough process even more difficult.

“I think it would have been harder because the people who I thought were my closest friends, they stopped speaking to me when I was scared the most and wanted to talk to them. They weren’t there,” she recalls. “It was coworkers or my Bunko girls that kept me going.”

Lani also found encouragement in unexpected places. Her listeners remained loyal throughout her bout with cancer, sending her inspirational and heartening emails and calling the station to check in on her or share their stories of loss and survival. When Lani was out of the office for a surgery or treatment, worried fans inquired about her whereabouts, she says. Every day she was on air, listeners told her they were relieved to hear her voice.

“It made them feel better knowing I was still there,” she says with gratitude. “It made me feel more like I need to be here for them, too. They’re here for me.”

Even today, Lani lets her listeners know when she is taking time off because they still worry about her, she says. People tell Lani that she is a hero, a part of the family, and often seek her advice about cancer. Lani always advises them to get tested, but to take each day as it comes. She offers to accompany listeners to doctor’s appointments and assures she will be there for them, no matter the outcome.

“If I can help another person, especially after going through this, I’m going to help them,” she states.

Thanks to a nomination by Mike Shannon, a former on-air radio

Supporting the cause

personality, the Amarillo Annual Breast Cancer Motorcycle Benefit Run benefited Lani. More than 300 motorcyclists showed up with their bikes to raise breast cancer awareness.

“You couldn’t believe how many people were just there to support me, not even knowing me,” Lani exclaims. “That was an amazing thing… It was one of the nicest things ever, for strangers to do that. And it was a lot of fun.”

With such an empowering group of friends to rely upon, Lani says she didn’t need to attend support group sessions. With the lyrics of “Ain’t Nothing Gonna Break My Stride” resonating in her mind and the strength of her mother beating in her heart, Lani put forth her best efforts not to give in to the disease. Although at times defeat and fear would try to overcome her, Lani’s faith in God kept her going, she says.

“God’s not going to give you more than you can handle,” she kept telling herself. “Fight it. Just fight.”

Through the love and devotion from her family and friends and her relationship with the Lord, Lani won her battle with cancer.

For the past four years, she’s changed her perspective on life and has learned to appreciate what she has been given, in spite of the obstacles she’s encountered. She considers herself “one of the fortunate ones.” She no longer hides her feelings and she doesn’t take life for granted.

“Life’s too short,” she says. “I’m going to say what I feel… I try to do more things because I was always one of those who went to work and went home… When I go out, I make sure I have fun and enjoy myself. It just opens your eyes.”

Santiago Auctions presents:

for the cure...

The 2nd Annual Amarillo Collector Car Auction October 14th & 15th Vintage Autohaus and Imports 8210 W. Amarillo Blvd., Amarillo, TX 79124 806.395.9600

AMARILLO GLOBE-NEWS

BEST 4219 SW 45th • 806-322-2033 2010 (45th & Western across from Drug Emporium) OF AMARILLO

For More Information 800.994.2816

rockydb5@sbcglobal.net

www.santiagosc.com

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

51

S p e c i a l Ad v e rt i s i n g S e ct i o n

By Her Side Husband supports wife during breast cancer diagnosis, treatment and recovery

by Drew Belle Zerby

photos by Shannon Richardson

Lynn and Kyle Pipkin

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

53

cover

S p e c i a l Ad v e rt i s i n g S e ct i o n

I

n September 2008, Lynn Pipkin was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer. A healthy and lively woman at the age of 57, Lynn was an avid swimmer and working at her family’s business, Tascosa Office Machines.

When she was informed of her condition, Lynn immediately called her husband of 19 years, Kyle, to pass along the startling news. Upon arriving home, Lynn discovered Kyle doing laundry, quickly detecting his distress. Before the couple could sit down and discuss how to proceed, Kyle darted outside to their backyard.

“It was kind of surreal at first,” recalls Kyle, who lost his mother to lung cancer six years prior. “I was kind of shocked and I think the first thing I did was went and got on the lawnmower. And I ran it into a tree when I was mowing the backyard,” he laughs.

When Kyle came back inside, Lynn sweetly inquired, “Did you hear what I told you?” Of course, he had heard every word.

“You’re just scared at first,” Kyle says. “Just absolutely scared to death thinking you might lose somebody that you really love. That’s what I thought. It’s the worst thing that could happen. Then probably a day or two later I’m thinking, I just gotta be behind her…” he pauses.

“We’ve been through a lot,” Lynn finishes, grasping her husband’s hand as he takes a breath. “For caregivers, I think it’s almost in a way harder for them because all of a sudden you go into battle mode. But for them, I feel they kind of feel helpless. All of a sudden you’re just, ‘What can I do?’ I think

54

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

sometimes it’s harder for the caregiver.”

Jumping back into the conversation, Kyle strongly disagrees with Lynn’s theory. “Well, no, no, no, no. It’s not harder because I’ve talked to other guys who went through the same thing with their wife and it’s almost like they feel like a victim... No. I felt like I needed to stay behind her and support her and not make it about me because it wasn’t.”

All the while Lynn was battling breast cancer, people would approach Kyle and inquire about his well-being, a common gesture that vexed him.

“I still get tired of people [asking], ‘How are you holding up?’” he candidly confesses. “People always say, ‘It must be so hard on you too.’ I never bought into that because yeah, it’s hard on anyone who’s fighting for someone they love and being in their corner but I’m not the one going through it. I’m not the one scared to death that it’s going to come back.”

With Lynn’s upbeat mindset, dynamic attitude and optimism permeating the air, Kyle felt it was his duty as a husband to follow her lead and adapt to the situation as she had. While undergoing surgeries in Houston, Lynn’s surgeon gave her three $20 Monopoly bills and told her, ‘You have three chances to feel sorry for yourself.’ Kyle only collected two.

“From my standpoint, I didn’t dare sit around feeling sorry for myself. Her attitude was so positive I would have been ashamed to go, ‘Poor me.’ If she can handle this I’m going to be right there in her corner,” Kyle declares.

Throughout Lynn’s diagnosis, treatment and recovery,

S p e c i a l Ad v e rt i s i n g S e ct i o n

Kyle has firmly stood by Lynn’s side. He scheduled vacations from his job to stay with her in Houston, traveling back and forth. He managed her surgical drains and pushed her around in a wheelchair. However, these undertakings were not spousal obligations or chores, but were rather acts of love that didn’t faze Kyle one bit.

“It wasn’t bad at all,” Kyle nonchalantly describes. “I was at a point where I thought, ‘If I can help…’” he trails off as Lynn affectionately pats his hand, staring at him endearingly.

After a year’s worth of chemotherapy, rounds of radiation, treatment for Her2 (Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor 2), a double mastectomy and developing lymphedema, Lynn remained strong. It wasn’t until six weeks after her reconstructive surgery when she lost one of her implants that Lynn’s resilience wavered, but Kyle was there to perk her back up again. For Kyle, Lynn losing her hair and breasts was trivial. He was solely concerned with losing his life partner.

“She was devastated,” Kyle says. “She said, ‘Well, you know, I think I feel like less of a woman.’ She’s told me that. I’ve told her I’m not a spring chicken either so let’s not worry about that,” they both chuckle. “When she decided not to go back for [another surgery], I was really, really glad. I don’t see her for having large breasts… it’s having her around.”

This December, Lynn will celebrate two years of living cancerfree. While they celebrate Lynn’s victory every day, the couple cannot help but fear a relapse. “There’s never a day or a point we said, ‘OK, she beat it. That’s it,’” Kyle says. However, they continue to take each day as it comes and are thankful for their

Serving the Texas Panhandle since 1979

friends, family and coworkers who walked down this road with them. During the summer of 2010, Lynn and Kyle’s family took an Alaskan cruise, a trip that had been postponed as a result of Lynn’s diagnosis. On this vacation, every member of the family on the cruise surprised Lynn with charms for her bracelet, representing their love for her and the battle she fought and conquered.

“I’ve really been so fortunate in such a different way,” Lynn says as sways her left wrist back and forth, showing off her silver charm bracelet. “I think that’s really what cancer, to me, has taught us more than anything is to look deeper and really stop and look at what you’ve got and enjoy that every moment.”

“I feel like I’ve been very fortunate she’s had so many other people in her life that have been helpful to her,” Kyle adds.

Lynn remains active in her breast cancer support group, Dudes N’ Divas, at Texas Oncology-Amarillo Cancer Center and the American Cancer Society’s program, Reach to Recovery, as well as volunteering with cancer patients. Rather than seeing Lynn’s breast cancer as a misfortune or tragedy, Kyle appreciates what this trial has taught him.

“If there’s any positive about going through something like this, I think it makes you appreciate what you have,” Kyle opines.

“Wouldn’t you say that?” Kyle looks to the woman he calls his best friend. “We actually, I think, grew closer together through all of this because it made me realize you’re here one day, you’re gone the next… It does make you realize that nothing’s forever and she’s been such an inspiration. It’s helped me realize there’s so many more important things. Every day’s just a little more precious.”

Helping Support the Cause for a Cure...

Mary Schooler...

Don’t forget to get your fall pansies at

A True Survivor and a Breast Cancer Awareness Advocate

Coulter Gardens &Nursery 4100 S. Georgia . Amarillo

4200 COULTER • 806.359.7432

806-352-2727

www.schoolerfuneralhome.com

Breast cancer survivor Mary Schooler with granddaughterm, Erin

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

55

cover

S p e c i a l Ad v e rt i s i n g S e ct i o n

Caring for the Community Cancer treatment centers offer advanced technology to patients

photo courtesy of Harrington Breast Center

by Drew Belle Zerby

The interior of the Harrington Breast Center’s mammography coach

H

arrington Breast Center and Texas Breast Specialists provide patients with advanced and specialized equipment to detect breast cancer. As the most widespread cancer in the world, breast cancer is the most diagnosed form among women in Texas, according to Texas Department of State Health Services.

For nearly 20 years, the Harrington Breast Center Mobile Outreach Program has traveled throughout New Mexico and the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles offering women mammograms and breast health education.

“There were ladies in the Texas Panhandle that knew there were a lot of women that could not make it to Amarillo to get the services that they needed,” says Aneta Younger, Harrington Breast Center director. “So they got together and formed this outreach program.”

What began as three vans endowed by the Sybil B. Harrington Trust has grown into the largest mobile mammography screening vehicle in the state, according to its website. The state-ofthe-art, 38-foot self-contained coach features full-field digital mammography equipment. Staffed by a certified driver, a

56

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

registration assistant and a certified mammography technologist, the modern coach allows the technician to perform screenings inside the vehicle. In 2010, the coach saw more than 2,300 patients.

“The patients come on board, we do a brief history with them, a little breast education and they receive a mammogram,” Aneta describes.

Aneta considers the mammography coach a vital asset to Harrington because it allows the Breast Center to promote breast health by offering digital mammograms to women who do not have access to an annual screening, she says.

“It’s allowing us to reach women who would not otherwise get a mammogram due to their inability to drive to a larger area, like Amarillo,” Aneta explains. “It doesn’t matter if they’re 40 or elderly.

They’re just some people who can’t get off work, that can’t get it.”

Serving all income populations, the Breast Center also offers grants to underprivileged and underserved women through the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Candidates must reach certain requirements to receive a grant, Aneta says.

“We’re able to not only provide those women a mammogram but we are able to provide it for them where they don’t have to

The BSGI machine at Texas Breast Specialists

photo by Shannon Richardson

spend their money for gas,” she exclaims. “They no longer have to choose, ‘Do I get health care or do I get groceries for my family?’”

The Harrington Breast Center emphasizes the importance of having an annual mammography because the earlier cancer is detected, the better chance there is of preventing it from spreading.

“Not only does it bring saving technology for screenings for women but it also brings the digital imaging, which is also better,” Aneta claims. “That’s why we went to the coach because it was better technology for out patients… Our whole education is to remind them that they do need to come, they need to get their screening.”

When the coach visits communities throughout the region, patients graciously receive the coach and its staff, Aneta says.

They are thankful to have this reliable service provided to them and community members show their appreciation, either by a simple thank you or by making the staff lunch.

“There’s a bond from the patients in the community and the ladies who work on the coach,” Anita describes. “It’s a real community welcoming, not just from the community, but from the patients themselves.”

Aneta believes women are becoming more and more aware of breast cancer statistics and realizing everyone is at risk.

“Women understand at the age of 40 everybody needs to have a screening mammogram once a year,” she says. “The more we can get the word out there, the more we can make the services easier for them to obtain, either financially or by location.”

Opening in 2009, Texas Breast Specialists, a subsidiary of Texas Oncology-Amarillo Cancer Center, houses the only

Can’t find what you want or need in our meat and seafood area?

Just ask.

We are more than happy to help our Guests when they have a question or need. If you’re looking for a special cut or need cooking instructions, Just Ask, we’re glad to offer our expertise and insights.

And remember if you need to place an order for a party or special occasion, Just Ask. After all, that’s what we’re here for.

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

57

Breast-Specific Gamma Imaging machine in the Panhandle, says Karen McEvers, mammography manager.

“Texas Breast Specialists is the only breast center in Amarillo that has dual accreditation through both the ACR (American College of Radiology) and NAPBC (National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers) as a Breast Center of Excellence,” Karen says.

ACR’s accreditation of Texas Breast Specialists’ mammography, breast ultrasound, breast ultrasound biopsy and stereotactic biopsy units is considered a “gold standard” for mammography in a breast center, Karen says. The accreditation through NAPBC, on the other hand, concerns radiology, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, research, surgeons, therapy and hospital and was achieved through the collaboration of Texas Breast Specialists, Texas Oncology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and Northwest Texas Healthcare System.

While mammography remains the primary method of detecting breast cancer early, certain challenges, such as a patient with dense breasts or scar tissue, may thwart a screening, resulting in an inconclusive diagnosis, Karen explains. That’s where a BSGI comes in.

“It is molecular breast imaging and when you have an indeterminate on mammography or ultra sound or MRI, or if there is a lump that can be felt and you can’t see it with mammography, then we can take the patient into the BSGI room and do this nuclear medicine test on them,” Karen describes. The machine screened 70 patients in 2010.

A BSGI works by lightly compressing the breast. Since cancer cells contain a higher energy and a higher activity level than normal cells, the machine is able to more precisely identify concentrated dark spots, Karen says. If a woman has thick tissue in her breasts or has had a breast augmentation, a mammography or other screening may not detect a lump, as opposed to a BSGI machine.

“If it’s hot on BSGI, it’s more than likely a cancer,” Karen describes. “If it’s hot on MRI, then it might be or might not be.”

A BSGI screening is also recommended for patients who experience The Harrington claustrophobia or may mammography coach feel uncomfortable within operates Monday through the enclosure of an MRI Friday, except the first machine, Karen says.

Friday of the month.

Through advanced Times vary depending on equipment, educational the clinic. services and support from organizations such as The The Harrington Breast Greater Amarillo Affiliate Center is open Monday for Susan G. Komen for through Saturday. For the Cure, the medical more information, call community of Amarillo has 806.356.1905 or visit demonstrated its dedication bsahs.org/harrington to fighting breast cancer .cfm?id=753. and proven the tremendous For more information strides research has taken on the BSGI machine, to find a cure. contact Texas Breast “It’s come a long ways Specialists at 806.457.2060 from when our mothers or visit texasoncology. had to start getting com/amarillo/texas-breastmammograms,” Aneta says. specialists.aspx.

“It’s come a very long ways.”

58

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

FUNERAL DIRECTORS AND

Memory Gardens Cemetery “Honoring your loved ones”

Tommy LaGrone Coulter Road Chapel 8310 S. Coulter

Garre LaGrone

372-3233

Martin Road Chapel 1505 Martin Road

Supporting the Cause for a Cure

2611 Wolflin Village (806) 331-2002 marcellafurs.com

events October

Featured Event

Don Harrington Discovery Center

Don Harrington Discovery Center is always bustling with exciting activities and events. From educational exhibits and kid-friendly experiments to nights just for adults, the Discovery Center displays a plethora of permanent and visiting exhibits. This past month, the Discovery Center welcomed Amazon Voyage: Vicious Fishes & Other Riches, which invites guests to explore various ecosystems along the Amazon River as well as its inhabitants.

photo courtesy of Don Harrington Discovery Center

This month, the Discovery Center is hosting its annual Mad Scientist Ball. Celebrating its third year, this electrifying event includes an epicurean meal catered

by Rory Schepisi, owner of Boot Hill Saloon & Grill, live entertainment from musical superheroes, The SpaceRockers, and interactive science experiences. Toss on a lab coat to complete your “Science Geek Chic” attire and take on the persona of an eccentric scientist while testing steam billowing cocktails. All proceeds benefit the educational programs supported by the Discovery Center.

Tickets must be purchased by October 15.

Mad Scientist Ball October 22, 7 p.m.-12 a.m.

Don Harrington Discovery Center 1200 Streit Drive 355.9547 dhdc.org

To have an event listed on the calendar, email details to michele.mcaffrey@amarillo.com or fax a press release to 806.345.3282.

View an updated listing of events throughout October at amarillomagonline.com.

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

59

Arts & Entertainment Oct. 1

La bohéme 7:30 p.m. Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Benefits & Fundraisers Oct. 4

“Go, Dog. Go!” 7:30 p.m. Texas Academy of Performing Arts 3701 Plains, 318.8088

“In the Next Room” 8 p.m.

Amarillo Little Theatre 2019 Civic Circle, 355.9991

Empty Bowls Project 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Sponsored by Faith City Ministries. Amarillo Civic Center Grand Plaza 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

“La Cage Aux Follies” 8 p.m.

Amarillo Little Theatre 2019 Civic Circle, 355.9991

Oct. 21

Oct. 6

Oct. 20-22

La bohéme 2:30 p.m. Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Jazz on 6th 8 p.m. Chamber Music Amarillo. Fibonacci Building, 3306 SW 6th, 236.3545

LIPS! Gala 6-10 p.m. Solid Gold LIPS! 2011 benefits Opportunity School. Community members impersonate their favorite stars and lip-sync a variety of musical acts. Amarillo Civic Center Heritage Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

“Go, Dog. Go!” 2:30 p.m. Texas Academy of Performing Arts 3701 Plains, 318.8088

Oct. 21-22

Oct. 8

Oct. 2

“La Cage Aux Follies” 2:30 p.m.

Amarillo Little Theatre 2019 Civic Circle, 355.9991

Oct. 6

First Thursday Art Showing the 806 coffee + lounge 2812 SW 6th, 322.1806

Oct. 6-15

The Children’s Hour 7:30 p.m.

Presented by WTAMU Theatre. Sybil B. Harrington Fine Arts Complex, Happy State Bank Theatre, on the WTAMU Campus in Canyon, 651.2804

Oct. 7

Gabriel Iglesias 7 p.m. GlobeNews Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Beethoven’s “Christ on the Mount of Olives” 7 p.m. Presented by Friends of Aeolian Skinner Opus 1024. Featuring Amarillo Master Chorale, Amarillo Youth Choir and members of the Amarillo Symphony. St. Andrews Episcopal Church 1601 S. Georgia, 376.6316

Oct. 23

“In the Next Room” 2:30 p.m.

Amarillo Little Theatre 2019 Civic Circle, 355.9991

Oct. 27-29

“Fool for Love” 7:30 p.m.

Presented by WTAMU Theatre. Sybil B. Harrington Fine Arts Complex, FAC room 175, on the WTAMU Campus in Canyon, 651.2804

First Friday Art Walk 5-9 p.m.

The Galleries at Sunset 3701 Plains Blvd., 353.5700

“In the Next Room” 8 p.m.

Amarillo Little Theatre 2019 Civic Circle, 355.9991

Oct. 7-8

Oct. 28

Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde 8 p.m.

Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 8

Casting Crowns 7 p.m. World Vision presents Casting Crowns “Come to the Well Tour” with Sanctus Real and The Afters and introducing Lindsay McCaul.

Amarillo Civic Center Coliseum 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 14-15

Amarillo Symphony “Guitar Brilliance” 8 p.m. Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 20

Third Thursday 6:30-9 p.m.

Amarillo Museum of Art 2200 S. Van Buren, 371.5050

60

WTAMU Fall Choir Concert 7:30 p.m. Mary Moody Northen Recital Hall on the WTAMU campus, Canyon, 651.2840

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

Open Book Festival 10 a.m.-11 p.m. First annual event hosted by Friends of the Amarillo Public Library benefitting the READ to SUCCEED reading skills program of the Amarillo Public Library.

Amarillo Civic Center Heritage Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 13

Silent Samaritan Luncheon 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Grand Plaza 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 Third Annual Chick Crawl Amarillo 6-9 p.m. Presented by Tobacco Leaf Boutique. A portion of the ticket proceeds will benefit the High Plains Food Bank. For more information, visit chickcrawl .com or call 679.9730.

Oct. 14

Oct. 29

Junior League of Amarillo Golf Classic 12 p.m. Four-Man Scramble Blind Draw. Flighting registration and lunch at 12:00 p.m., shotgun start at 1:00 p.m. Comanche Trail Golf Complex 4200 S. Grand, 378.4281

Oct. 30

Second Annual OktoberFest 6:30-11 p.m. Hosted by The Bridge.

Event includes sausage and sauerkraut, beer and live music.

Sunset Center Event Room 3701 Plains Blvd., 372.2873

Harrington String Quartet 7:30 p.m. Westminster Presbyterian Church 2525 Wimberly, 376.8782

All Region Choir Concert 4:25 p.m. Presented by AISD. Amarillo Civic Center Auditorium 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

“In the Next Room” 2:30 p.m.

Amarillo Little Theatre 2019 Civic Circle, 355.9991 Amarillo Youth Choir Fall Concert 3 p.m. Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 WTAMU Symphony Presents: Charlie Chaplin’s “City Lights” 7:30 p.m. Mary Moody Northen Recital Hall on the WTAMU campus, Canyon, 651.2840

Oct. 15

Signature Chefs 6:30-11 p.m.

Presented by the March of Dimes.

Amarillo Civic Center Heritage Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 27

Breakfast of Champions 10 a.m.

Presented by the Champions of Breast Health for the Amarillo Area Breast Health Coalition. Amarillo Civic Center Grand Plaza 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Amarillo Globe-News’ We Think Pink: Ladies Night Out 8 p.m. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Amarillo chapter of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Event will feature comedians from The New York Hysterical Society, heavy hors d’ oeuvres, live music and cash bar.

Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 28

Special Delivery Banquet 6:30- 9:30 p.m. Presented by Special Delivery Infant Adoption Agency.

Amarillo Civic Center Grand Plaza 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 29

Christmas in October 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Presented by Sharing Hope Ministries, Inc. Amarillo Civic Center South Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 30

Christmas in October 1-5 p.m.

Presented by Sharing Hope Ministries, Inc. Amarillo Civic Center South Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Classes & Seminars Oct. 6

Photographing the Garden 6:30 p.m.

Amarillo Botanical Gardens 1400 Streit Drive, 352.6513

Oct. 8

Photographing the Garden 10 a.m.

Amarillo Botanical Gardens 1400 Streit Drive, 352.6513

Oct. 12

National Fossil Day 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Jeff Indeck, chief curator and curator of Archeology, Paleontology, Ethnology, Geology and Biology at PPHM, will offer tours through the paleontology gallery for museum visitors. Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum 2503 4th, Canyon, 651.2244 Lunch & Learn with Josh Wood 12-1 p.m. Hosted by the West Texas A&M University Enterprise Center and featuring Josh Wood of Wood Financial.

Josh will speak on “Managing Personal and Business Finances.” Advance registration is required. West Texas A&M Enterprise Center Training Room 2300 N. Western, 374.9777

Oct. 18

When You Speak, Do Others Listen?

12 p.m. Five-hour workshop with professional speakers and networking experts. Sleep Inn and Suites 6915 I-40 West, 242.7777

Oct. 20

2012 Amarillo EnterPrize Challenge Orientation Workshop 4 p.m. WTAMU Enterprise Center Training Room 2300 N. Western, 374.9777

Exhibitions

AMoA 1st National Juried Biennial: Figurative Painting Open through Oct. 23. Amarillo Museum of Art 2200 S. Van Buren, 371.5050 Aftermath: Images from Ground Zero Photographs by Joel Meyerowitz Open Oct. 28 through Dec. 31. Amarillo Museum of Art 2200 S. Van Buren, 371.5050 Not Just for Show: Saddles from the Permanent Collection Open through Oct. 9. Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum 2503 4th, Canyon, 651.2244 Opening the Cabinet Doors: Clothing and Accessories from the American Indian Collection Open through Oct. 31. Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum 2503 4th, Canyon, 651.2244 “America’s Horse in Art” Art Show and Sale Open through Nov. 12. American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum, 2601 I-40 East, 376.5181

Made to Fit: Amarillo Little Theater and the Texas Panhandle Open through Jan. 22. Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, Textile Gallery 2503 4th, Canyon, 651.2244 Littlefield Murals Open through Feb. 19. Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum 2503 4th, Canyon, 651.2244 TRY!: Rodeo on the Southern Plains Open Oct. 30 through Sept. 9, 2012.

Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum 2503 4th, Canyon, 651.2244 Spiritual Places Open through Jan. 9.

Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, Harrington Changing Gallery 2503 4th, Canyon, 651.2244 Amazon Voyage: Vicious Fishes & Other Riches Open through December.

Don Harrington Discovery Center 1200 Streit Drive, 355.9547

Music Andy Chase Cundiff 7 p.m. every Tuesday night. 575 Pizzeria 2803 Civic Circle, 331.3627 Casey Berry 9 p.m.-12 a.m. every Tuesday night. Pepito’s Mexican Restaurante Y Cantina 3333 S. Coulter, 353.7373

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

61

Andy Chase Cundiff 7 p.m. every Wednesday night. Blue Sky 4201 I-40 West, 355.8100 Casey Berry and Shane Rogers 9:30 p.m. every Wednesday night.

Skooterz 4100 Bushland Blvd., 355.6600

Oct. 1

Oct. 21

Blues Boy Willie 7 p.m. Smokey Joe’s Café 2903 SW 6th, 331.6698

The Blues Rangers 8 p.m. Cattle Call Too 4111 Wolflin, 353.1227

Oct. 8

Average Joes 6-9 p.m. Joe Taco 7312 Wallace Blvd., 331.8226 Casting Crowns 7 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Coliseum 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Switchfoot and Anberlin Doors open at 6 p.m. Azteca Music Hall 500 N. FM 1912, 335.9990 Chad Sullins and the Last Call Coalition 9 p.m. GoldenLight Cantina 2906 SW 6th, 374.0097

7154 Canyon Drive • I-27 S. at Bell Street exit • 806-356-9102

Mon-Fri: 8:00 - 5:30 • Sat: 9:00 - Noon

62

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

Emil Ink 7:30-10:30 p.m. D’Vine Wine 2600 Wolflin Village, 553.5311

Oct. 24

Oct. 13

Boyd’s Equipment, Inc.

Oct. 22

Oct. 7

Everything That Rises 7:30-10:30 p.m. D’Vine Wine 2600 Wolflin Village, 553.5311

!

Bart Crow Band 8 p.m. Midnight Rodeo, 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083

The Ghost Wolves and The Asteroid Shop Doors open at 9 p.m. the 806 coffee + lounge 2812 SW 6th, 322.1806

Reckless Kelly 8 p.m. Midnight Rodeo, 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083

tion c a n i t i See at

Average Joes 8 p.m. Cattle Call Too 4111 Wolflin, 353.1227

Javi Garcia 9 p.m. GoldenLight Cantina 2906 SW 6th, 374.0097

Yvonne Perea 7:30-10:30 p.m. D’Vine Wine 2600 Wolflin Village, 553.5311

Available in wall mount or built-in

Charla Corn 8 p.m. Doors open at 9:30 p.m. GoldenLight Cantina 2906 SW 6th, 374.0097

Oct. 6

Ross Cooper 7 p.m. GoldenLight Cantina 2906 SW 6th, 374.0097

Less than 8” deep • Operates with or without heat Crushed glass interior • Remote control included

Diamondback TX 9 p.m. Hoot’s Pub 2424 Hobbs, 358.9560

Oct. 20

Tommy Gallagher Band and Restless Heart Doors open at 7 p.m. Azteca Music Hall 500 N. FM 1912, 335.9990

50” linear electric fireplace

Oct. 15

Gilbert Hernandez 9 p.m.-12 a.m. every Thursday night. Pepito’s Mexican Restaurante Y Cantina 3333 S. Coulter, 353.7373

Pat Green 7 p.m. Midnight Rodeo, 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083

Electrifying

Cruise Duke 9 p.m. Midnight Rodeo, 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083

Old North State Doors open at 9 p.m. the 806 coffee + lounge 2812 SW 6th, 322.1806

Oct. 14

AFK 8 p.m. Cattle Call Too 4111 Wolflin, 353.1227 Johnny Cooper 8 p.m. Midnight Rodeo, 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083 Left Foot Sally 8 p.m. GoldenLight Cantina 2906 SW 6th, 374.0097

Brad Hoshaw Doors open at 9 p.m. the 806 coffee + lounge 2812 SW 6th, 322.1806

Oct. 28

JB and the Moonshine Band 8 p.m.

Midnight Rodeo, 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083 Tennessee Tuckness 8 p.m. Cattle Call Too 4111 Wolflin, 353.1227

Oct. 29

Shane Rogers Band 8 p.m. Hoot’s Pub 2424 Hobbs, 358.9560

Oct. 31

Natalie Stovall 8 p.m. WTAMU 2501 4th Ave., Canyon, 651.0000

Nature

Lunch with the Longhorns 1:30 p.m. every day in October. Palo Duro Canyon State Park 11450 Park Rd. 5, 488.2227 Saturday Sunset Watch 7:45-9 p.m. every Saturday in October. Wildcat Bluff Nature Center 2301 N. Soncy, 352.6007

Oct. 1

Evening Hike 6-7:30 p.m. Juniper Picnic area, group size limit of 20. No pets, please. Palo Duro Canyon State Park 11450 Park Rd. 5, 488.2227

Oct. 7

Toddlers at Ten (Lemurs) 10 a.m.

Amarillo Zoo 700 Comanchero Trail, 381.7911

Oct. 8

Sunset Hike 7-8 p.m. Meet at the Headquarters parking lot. Weather permitting; no pets, please. Hike limited to 25 participants. Reservations required, deadline Oct. 6. Palo Duro Canyon State Park 11450 Park Rd. 5, 488.2227

AMARILLO GLOBE-NEWS

BEST 2011 OF AMARILLO

Oct. 15

Chryslers in the Canyon 11:45 a.m. Sponsored by Mopars of Amarillo. Pioneer Amphitheater, accessible for the mobility impaired. For more information, visit amarilloareamopars.com. Palo Duro Canyon State Park Amphitheater 11450 Park Rd. 5, 488.2227

Oct. 22

Bird Walks and Talks 8:30-10 a.m. Meet at the Wildlife Viewing Blind at the Palo Duro Trading Post. No pets, please. Palo Duro Canyon State Park 11450 Park Rd. 5, 488.2227

Special Events Saturday Movies at the North Branch 3:15-5 p.m.

Every Saturday in October, visit the North Branch for a family-friendly movie. Amarillo Public Library 1500 NE 24th, 381.7931

Oct. 1

Dia de la Salud de la MUJER (International Day of Women’s Health) 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Hosted by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Laura W. Bush Institute for Women’s Health. Amarillo Civic Center North and South Exhibit Halls and Regency and Heritage Rooms 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

LSB

Jekyll 5.25x4.875 Amarillo Magazine.pdf

8/16/11

4:30:02 PM

AAYC Fearfest Amarillo 4:30 p.m. Hosted by the AAYC. Amarillo Activity Youth Center 816 S. Van Buren, 373.2292

Oct. 2

Third-annual Westminster Doggie Show 2 p.m.

Sponsored by Westminster Presbyterian Church.

Stephen F. Austin Park 1818 Wimberly, 359.4781

Oct. 12

Best of Amarillo 5-8 p.m. The annual event recognizes the winners of the 2011 Best of Amarillo competition sponsored by the Amarillo Globe-News. Amarillo Civic Center Heritage Room 401 S. Buchanan, 345.3363

Oct. 13

Senior Fall Festival 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center North Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 Hot Air Balloon Glow 6-9 p.m. Event includes food vendors, live music and inflated, glowing balloons.

Don Harrington Discovery Center 1200 Streit Drive, 355.9547 Annual Chamber Banquet 6-9:30 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Heritage Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 15

Llano Cemetery Tour by Twilight 3:30-6:30 p.m.

Tour Amarillo’s oldest cemetery on a hay ride or walking tour and learn about Amarillo’s past. Weather permitting. Enter the cemetery from the 34th Avenue entrance. Llano Cemetery on 34th Ave. between Arthur and I-27, 376.4538

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

63

Oct. 18

Taste of Home Cooking School Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Show starts at 6:30 p.m. Hosted by the Amarillo Globe-News.

Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 22

Mad Scientist Ball 7 p.m.-12 a.m.

Adults-only event includes an epicurean dinner, steam-billowing cocktails, madcap entertainment and experimentation, elemental excavation, and dancing to live music

by The SpaceRockers. Don Harrington Discovery Center 1200 Streit Drive, 355.9547

Oct. 28

Press in the Canyon 7:30 a.m. Public is welcome to the kickoff for Pirates in the Canyon 2011. Weather permitting; park fees may apply. Palo Duro Canyon State Park 11450 Park Rd. 5, 674.3234 Hoist Your Colors 7 p.m. Hot air balloon glow. Gates open at 5 p.m. and the event is free. John Stiff Memorial Park 4800 Bell, 674.3234

Oct. 28-29

We’re everywhere!

Find us on Twitter and Facebook.

Texas Mission of Mercy 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Presented by the Texas Dental Association. Amarillo Civic Center Heritage Room and North Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 Boo at the ZOO 5:30-8 p.m. Join the Amarillo Zoo for an evening of not-soscary, high-spirited Halloween fun.

700 Comanchero Trail, 381.7911

Oct. 29

Pirates of the Canyon Competition Event 7:30 a.m. Hair and Hound contest for balloon pilots as part of the Pirates of the Canyon event. An alternate event has been planned if weather does not permit flight. John Stiff Memorial Park 4800 Bell, 674.3234 Trick or Treat 2 p.m. Wear your costume and meet the balloon pilots and crews from the Pirates of the Canyon event.

John Stiff Memorial Park 4800 Bell, 674.3234

Oct. 30

New look! Start at amarillomagonline.com.

See behind-the-scenes photos, read web exclusives and check out our new Tip of the Week section.

Pirates of the Canyon 7:30 a.m.

Watch 30 balloons lift off from the Amphitheatre Auxiliary parking lot at sunrise. Gates open for early entry at 6 a.m. and balloons begin inflating at 7 a.m. Palo Duro Canyon State Park 11450 Park Rd. 5, 674.3234

Sports & Recreation Oct. 1

Amarillo Bulls vs. New Mexico Mustangs 7 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Coliseum 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 Route 66 Roller Derby 7 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center North Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 6

WTAMU Lady Buffs vs. Texas A&M – Commerce 7 p.m. The Box, Canyon, 651.4400

Oct. 7

WTAMU Equestrian event 2 p.m.

WTAMU Equestrian Center, 651.4400 WTAMU Men’s Soccer vs. University of Texas of the Permian Basin 7 p.m.

Buffalo Sports Park, Canyon, 651.4400

Oct. 8

WTAMU Equestrian event 8 a.m.

WTAMU Equestrian Center, 651.4400 WTAMU Lady Buffs vs. Texas Woman’s 2 p.m. The Box, Canyon, 651.4400 WTAMU vs. Angelo State University 6 p.m. Kimbrough Memorial Stadium, Canyon, 651.4400

Oct. 9

WTAMU Men’s Soccer vs. Midwestern State University 2 p.m. Buffalo Sports Park, Canyon, 651.4400

Oct. 10-11

Ryan Palmer Foundation Invitational 8 a.m. start. Tascosa Golf Club 4502 Fairway Drive, 376.6633

Oct. 14

Amarillo Bulls vs. Topeka RoadRunners 7 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Coliseum 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 WTAMU Women’s Soccer vs. Texas A&M University - Commerce 7:30 p.m.

Buffalo Sports Park, Canyon, 651.4400

Oct. 15

Amarillo Bulls vs. Wichita Falls Wildcats 7 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Coliseum 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 16

WTAMU Women’s Soccer vs.

University of Texas of the Permian Basin 2 p.m. Buffalo Sports Park, Canyon, 651.4400

Oct. 18

WTAMU Lady Buffs vs. Cameron 7 p.m.

The Box, Canyon, 651.4400

64

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

Oct. 21

Oct. 29

Oct. 22

WTAMU vs. Central Washington University 6 p.m. Kimbrough Memorial Stadium, Canyon, 651.4400

WTAMU Women’s Soccer vs. Angelo State University 7:30 p.m. Buffalo Sports Park, Canyon, 651.4400

WTAMU Lady Buffs vs. Tarleton State 2 p.m. The Box, Canyon, 651.4400 WTAMU vs. Eastern New Mexico University 6 p.m. Kimbrough Memorial Stadium, Canyon, 651.4400

Oct. 23

WTAMU Women’s Soccer vs.

University of the Incarnate Word 1:30 p.m. Buffalo Sports Park, Canyon, 651.4400

Oct. 27

WTAMU Lady Buffs vs. Abilene Christian (Senior Night) 7 p.m. The Box, Canyon, 651.4400

Oct. 28

WTAMU Women’s Soccer vs. Eastern New Mexico University 6 p.m. Buffalo Sports Park, Canyon, 651.4400 WTAMU Men’s Soccer vs. University of the Incarnate Word 8 p.m. Buffalo Sports Park, Canyon, 651.4400

WTAMU Lady Buffs vs. Angelo State (Dig Pink Weekend) 2 p.m. The Box, Canyon, 651.4400

Amarillo Bulls vs. Wichita Falls Wildcats 7 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Coliseum 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 30

Amarillo Bulls vs. Topeka RoadRunners 6 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Coliseum 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Trade Shows Oct. 7

Just Between Friends 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Three-day shopping event with “gently used” children’s and maternity clothing as well as shoes, baby gear, outside playground equipment, nursery and maternity items, books, software, videos and toys. Amarillo Civic Center Regency Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

The Peddler Show 3- 8 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center North Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 8

Just Between Friends 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Three-day shopping event with “gently used” children’s and maternity clothing as well as shoes, baby gear, outside playground equipment, nursery and maternity items, books, software, videos and toys. Amarillo Civic Center Regency Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 The Peddler Show 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center North Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 9

Just Between Friends 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Three-day shopping event with “gently used” children’s and maternity clothing as well as shoes, baby gear, outside playground equipment, nursery and maternity items, books, software, videos and toys. Amarillo Civic Center Regency Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 The Peddler Show 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center North Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 11

Job Fair 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center North Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 14-15

The Restyle Boutique 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center Regency Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 15

Pioneer Gun Show 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center South Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 16

Pioneer Gun Show 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center South Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 The Restyle Boutique 1-4 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center Regency Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Oct. 31

Texas Cattle Feeders Convention 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Presented by Texas Cattle Feeders Association. Amarillo Civic Center 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

65

Services Offered: SKILLED NURSING HOME CARE AIDE PHYSICAL THERAPY OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY SPEECH THERAPY MEDICAL SOCIAL WORKER DIETITIAN WELLNESS PROGRAMS LIFELINE PROGRAM

806-351-8522 www.mycompassionhome.com

month or let’s eat!

RESTAURANTS info • FOOD • SPIRITS

let’s eat!

Feldman’s Wrong Way Diner

Since opening eight years ago, Feldman’s Wrong Way Diner has served more than 300,000 plates of its hit dish: the chicken fried steak. Hand-cut and hand-battered on site, it remains the most requested item on the menu.

Feldman’s invites its patrons to participate in the Tex Randall CFS challenge. Only two customers can claim they’ve stomached a 24-ounce chicken fried steak, one pound of French fries (both covered in 32 ounces of gravy), 12 ounces of green beans and a dinner roll and salad within 42 ½ minutes. Not up to that much home-style goodness? You can always choose an entrée from the On the Lighter Side menu.

photo by Shannon Richardson

Feldman’s Wrong Way Diner, 2100 N. 2nd, Canyon, 655.2700, feldmansdiner.com Open Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Friday through Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

PRICING GUIDE $ most entrees under $10 $$ most entrees $11 to $20 $$$ most entrees over $21

RESTAURANT KEY Outdoor Dining ☎ Reservations Recommended T Live Music y

c Full Bar C Beer and/or Wine only ^ Best of Amarillo Winner

NEW New to Let’s Eat! UPDATE

Updated entry

The Let’s Eat! Guide is a reader service compiled by the Amarillo Magazine editorial staff. The magazine does not accept advertising or other compensation in exchange for a listing. The guide is updated regularly. To correct a listing or recommend a restaurant for consideration, contact Michele McAffrey at michele.mcaffrey@amarillo.com.

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

67

Abuelo’s Mexican Food Embassy The authentic atmosphere and generous portions make for an enjoyable lunch or romantic evening out. If you’re stumped by all the choices, try the Enchiladas de Cozumel, three crepes filled with guacamole and topped with bountiful seafood, fresh spinach and roasted peppers. As a rule, always get the queso. 3501 SW 45th #G, 354.8294, abuelos.com $$ c ^ Arnold Burgers Arnold’s is the place to visit for a hot, juicy burger. Try a variety of burgers – you name it, Arnold’s probably has it. You can even order a giant 24-inch burger. Just make sure you bring a crew to help you finish it. And for the kids, order the burger with a bun shaped like a teddy bear. 1611 S. Washington, 372.1741, arnoldburgers.com $ Bangkok Restaurant When you’re looking for authentic Thai, Bangkok delivers. Start with the sticky rice, move on to the cucumber salad and finish with the Chicken Larb. Your kids will love watching the big fish tanks while you wait for your table. Warning: Spicy means spicy. Bangkok means business. 5901 Amarillo Blvd. East, 383.9008 $ Belmar Bakery & Cafe Open since 1965, Belmar Bakery is an Amarillo tradition. Loyal customers abound and each one has a favorite treat they return for again and again (we’re big fans of the thumb print cookies). The café offers a cozy place to meet for early morning coffee and pastries or tasty lunch with friends.

3325 Bell, 355.0141, belmarbakery.com $^ The Burger Bar The Burger Bar operates on a straightforward concept and offers a simple menu that includes shakes, floats and of course, burgers and fries.

You may be tempted to forgo the aforementioned and give the ripper, a deep-fried hot dog, a shot. Have your fill of feel-good food for an early lunch or late dinner. 614 S. Polk, 376.4700, burgerbaramarillo.com $$ c Café Marizon Enjoy the quaint café atmosphere in an historic building on Polk. Café Marizon serves up great home-cooked taste with consistently tasty specials of the day. Go early so you can have a piece of the homemade pie or cake. 705 S. Polk, 374.3058 $ y Carolina’s Wood-Fired Italian Despite the small interior, Carolina’s is great for a date or even the whole family. Start your meal off right with a first-rate Caesar salad and garlic bread.

You can’t go wrong with any of the authentic pasta entrees. 2916 Wolflin, 358.2099 $$ C

68

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

Cattleman’s Cafe For a hearty meal to start the day, Cattleman’s is the place to go. Order the Cowboy Breakfast to curb those early morning hunger pangs. Customers keep going back for the enchiladas or traditional chicken-fried steak.

3801 Amarillo Blvd. East, 383.4818 $ c Coyote Bluff Café Don’t let the outside fool you. This is seriously good food. The full pound, green chili cheeseburger is Southwest divine (add jalapenos for extra zip). Cool off with an ice cold beer. 2417 S. Grand, 373.4640, coyotebluffcafe.com $ C ^ Dale’s Grand Burger Looking for a quick stop to grab a tasty lunch? Then try locally-owned and operated Dale’s Grand Burger. You can’t miss with the famous Grand Burger and homemade onion rings.1900 Bell, 358.8228 $ y Doug’s For a quick, tasty meal, stop at Doug’s and try the chopped beef sandwich.

The menu is reasonably priced and the barbecue sauce is fantastic.

3313 S. Georgia, 352.8471 $ Dyer’s Bar-B-Que If you’re a meat lover, Dyer’s is the place for you. The all-you-can-eat lunch special is hard to beat. On Fridays and Saturdays, eat your fill of premium smoked prime rib. Finish up with a heaping bowl of hot fruit cobbler.

1619 S. Kentucky, Suite E526, 358.7104 $$ ^ Eat-Rite The food at Eat-Rite isn’t just good for you, it’s delicious as well. Feast on the organic salad bar or choose from a variety of tasty sandwiches, soups and entrees. The marinated carrots are pure, tasty goodness. 2441 I-40 West, 353.7476, eat-rite.com $ El Torito Restaurant Sink your teeth into authentic Mexican food at El Torito. Start with the variety of salsas made fresh daily and then move on to the guacamole and handmade tamales. The chicken and sour cream enchiladas are a customer favorite.

3301 I-40 West, 220.2415 c $$ English Field House Restaurant Visit a piece of Amarillo history at the English Field House. Named for Amarillo’s first airfield, the restaurant offers great, cooked-fresh café food.

Take the family for Sunday breakfast. It’s worth the drive. 10610 American Drive, 335.2996 $ Fatcat Fish & Grill From seafood and coleslaw, to cheeseburgers and steaks, Fatcat Fish & Grill offers fresh-cooked food at a reasonable price.1309 N. Fillmore, 373.3581 / 5713 SW 34th, 322.0833 $

Furrbie’s Furrbie’s has something for everyone, from the old-fashioned grilled onion burgers and array of sandwiches, to salads, seafood and ice cream treats, Hot dog enthusiasts will love the famous Nathan’s Hot Dogs, the originals from Coney Island, New York made with 100 percent Kosher American Beef.

Looking to cool off? Choose from fruityflavored ice treats or ice cream.

210 SW 6th, 220.0841 $ GJ’s Café and Grill Take a trip to GJ’s during your next lunch break whether you’re in the mood to dine in or drive through. With the choice of four specialty burgers, seven specialty burritos and 11 Mexican entrees, you’ll be back to work full of energy and good food. 3609 SW 45th, 331.2233, gjscafeandgrill.com $ GoldenLight Café As the oldest operating restaurant in Amarillo, the GoldenLight has been in business since 1947, all in the same location. For a great burger and fries, this is the place to go. 2908 SW 6th, 374.9237, goldenlightcafe.com $ C T

Green Chile Willy’s As the owners say, the way you like it is the way they fix it. Hand-cut grilled steaks, excellent burgers and grilled chicken; you name it, Willy’s has it. And you can’t beat the country atmosphere for a relaxing, good time. 13651 I-27, 622.2200, greenchilewillys.com $$ ^ The Happy Plum The Happy Plum Asian American Takeaway offers a variety of take out at its quick and easy drive-thru. The green pepper steak and pho choices caught our eye. If you can take the heat, spice things up with The Happy Plum’s sauce.

Save room for some sugary plum puffs; they melt in your mouth. 3321 Bell, 358.0310, thehappyplum.com $ Hayashi Japanese Restaurant Hayashi offers a fun atmosphere for a quick lunch or a night out. Cook tables allow diners to watch the chef in action or sit back and relax in the Tatami room with low tables and floor seating.

The cuisine is Japanese-style with a sushi bar. 3401 I-40 West, 322.8988, hayashiamarillo.com c $$

^

Hummer’s Sports Café Hang out with friends and eat your fill of Hummer’s great appetizers. Start off with a platter of raw oysters and a bucket of beer. We highly recommend the steak. 2600 Paramount #B2, 353.0723 $$ c y ^

Joe Taco Great atmosphere and a variety of Southwest favorites make Joe Taco a great place to sit and relax, especially while enjoying a signature margarita.

7312 Wallace Blvd., 331.8226, joetaco.net $$ c T ☎ y

Indian Oven The moment you enter Indian Oven, you’ll be enveloped by the fragrances of cardamom, ginger, anise, garlic and chili wafting from the kitchen. Start your meal with a generous portion of naan as you work your way through the extensive menu. Feast on chef specials like Chicken Tandoori and Chicken Tikka Masala or try a little of everything on the generous buffet. Finish up with the todie-for rice pudding. Don’t leave without sipping the Mango Lassi.

11000 I-40 East, 335.3600 $$

Kabob Restaurant Take a break from your everyday routine and give Kabob Restaurant a try. It’s anything but ordinary. Choose from a variety of traditional Middle Eastern entrées like beef or chicken kabobs, meatball stew (our favorite) and stuffed grape leaves. It’s all delicious.

4925 S. Western, 331.6771 $

Jason’s Deli The options at Jason’s are endless – sandwiches, paninis, wraps, baked potatoes, soups, salads, po’boys…

The menu might leave you a little overwhelmed, but take heart.

Everything is good. And there’s even free ice cream at the end. 7406 SW 34th, 353.4440, jasonsdeli.com $ ^

Kushi Yama Fusion is the concept of this cushy, Vegas-style restaurant. The name is a union of two elements: Kushi refers to a Japanese skewer and Yama derives from the last name of owner Tadamichi Tayama. Revolving around Asian tapas, the menu offers sushi and a variety of seasoned and sophisticated meat and seafood dishes. 3319 I-40 West, 358.2900, kushiyamarestaurant.com $$$ c

Breast cancer?

I won’t get it.

How many women still resist an annual mammogram? If they only knew that cancer awareness and early detection are key for successful treatment.

• Digital mammography • Ultrasound • Ultrasound-guided biopsy

• Stereotactic breast biopsy • Bone density assessment

Make an appointment.

Call 806-351-6266.

Physicians are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Northwest Texas Healthcare System. The System shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians.

1501 S. Coulter, Amarillo www.nwtexashealthcare.com

OctOber is NatiONal breast caNcer awareNess MONth – early diagnosis could mean a better prognosis.

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

69

La Hacienda In addition to traditional south-of-theborder fare, La Hacienda offers special dishes such as shrimp-stuffed chicken breast and beef tenderloin brochettes wrapped in bacon. Drop by for lunch or dinner seven days a week. 3415 Bell, 418.4098 $$ c Leal’s Leal’s serves dishes that blend the traditional flavors of Mexico with a few twists that will delight you. Try excellent non-traditional items like quail and salmon along with new sauce combinations and desserts. Let’s not forget about the fresh-squeezed lime margaritas, some of the best margaritas anywhere. 1619 S. Kentucky, 359.5959, lealsmexicanfoods.com $$ c T ^

“It keeps our name out there, it keeps our store exposed to the public... ” -Ves Barnesowner, Barnes Jewlelry

For more than 50 years, Barnes Jewelry has provided the citizens of Amarillo with fine gems and accessories and advertising with Amarillo Magazine has helped owner Vess Barnes maintain that service.

“It’s a viable part of our overall marketing campaign,” says Vess, who acquired ownership of his father’s store in 2002.

In addition to major designer brands such as Rolex and Pandora, Barnes Jewelry sells local artisans’ creations as well as custom jewelry and the pages of Amarillo Magazine represent his products well, he says.

“It keeps our name out there, it keeps our store exposed to the public and it does promote a certain product we like to run.”

Call Jaime Pipkin at 345.3432 to advertise your business in Amarillo Magazine.

70

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

Lone Star Bar & Grill Visit Lone Star Bar & Grill for classic American grill-style food including savory steaks, burgers, chicken sandwiches and more, all at an affordable price. You’ll also enjoy down-home friendly service. Lone Star’s guarantee: no hot beer and no small steaks. FM 1151, 622.9827 $$ c Macaroni Joe’s Macaroni Joe’s isn’t just a place to eat a great meal. The Tuscan-inspired rooms are the perfect place for creating memories. Whether for a first date, the start of a new life together, or celebrating important milestones, the restaurant offers excellent service and an exquisite food and wine menu. It’s at the top of our list. 1619 S. Kentucky, Suite 1500, 358.8990, macaronijoes.com $$ - $$$ c y ☎ ^ NEW McAlister’s Deli McAlister’s is not just another deli. Its made-to-order menu is chock full of fresh sandwich and salad options that make for a quick and tasty lunch.

And let’s not forget the Famous Sweet Tea that is handcrafted in house daily.

8605 SW 34th, 355.7500, mcalistersdeli.com, $ y Meatz Grill & Deli Get your sandwich just the way you like it at Meatz, where you can get your fill of a range of meats from pastrami and ham to steak and chicken. Don’t pass up an order of the Tornado Fries served with your choice of dipping sauce. For an early morning, try the Meatz Breakfast Platter or a Meatz Omelette. 114 E. 9th, 372.4277 $

Menchies If you’ve been longing for a Filipino feast, then long no more. For meat lovers, try the Lechon (roasted pig) or Paksiw Na Lechon. But all you vegetarians don’t fret; Menchie’s has more than one healthy dish for you.

Mix it up and give the Tortang Talong (Eggplant Omelet) a shot. If you’re up early enough, stop by for Menchie’s Filipino Breakfast. 3700 SW 6th, 373.4992 $ Mulligans Sports Pub Mulligans offers an energetic atmosphere, covering every sports game and team imaginable on more than 15 screens so you don’t miss an important play. The Pub also offers live music and daily drink specials. From great old-fashioned finger foods to ice-cold beer, Mulligans has options for everyone’s taste buds. 2511 Paramount, 367.8428 $ OHMS Café & Bar Set in downtown Amarillo, OHMS serves lunch buffet style and dinner in style. The chefs feature specials each week that range from seafood and smoked duck to beef tenderloin.

Excellent cuisine and service make this a delightful place to linger. 619 S. Tyler, 373.3233, ohmscafe.com $$$ ☎ T c Olive Garden Olive Garden will tell you, “When you’re here, you’re family,” and that’s the absolute truth. Dinner feels like a meal at your Italian grandma’s, and the portions couldn’t be more generous.

With endless salad and breadsticks, no matter the entrée, you’ll leave full.

4121 I-40 West, 355.9973, olivegarden.com$$ c Oscar’s Mexican Food Oscar’s Burritos doesn’t take up a lot of space, but what it lacks in room is made up with big taste. With everything homemade and fresh, the authentic cuisine is sure to satisfy any craving.

Stop by the drive-thru and pick up one of the famous brisket specialty burritos or go in and enjoy a delicious stuffed avocado. 4206 SW 45th, 350.4400 $ Outlaws Supper Club Looking for a steak-lover’s paradise?

Drive over to Outlaws Supper Club and you’ll discover just that. With a casual environment, you’ll find some of the finest steaks in Texas. We recommend the prime rib with tasty calf-fries but get there early because they go fast.

10816 SE 3rd, 335.1032 $$ c

Pacific Rim Pacific Rim offers a variety of AsianFusion cuisine in a unique setting. One of the best things about this place is the greeting you’ll get from Andy, the owner. But let’s talk food. The lettuce wraps are outstanding. In fact, everything is good. Pacific Rim even offers speedy delivery. 2061 Paramount, 353.9179, pacificrimam.com $ C Pan-Handlers Kick your lunching experience up a notch at Pan-Handlers. Settled in the basement of Amarillo National Bank Plaza One, this family-run restaurant supports the community by using farmfresh produce. With a list of daily specials ranging from Mexican to seafood and cleverly concocted sandwiches (try the ANBLT on ciabatta bread), your dining experience will be anything but bland and boring. 410 S. Taylor, 352.2590 $ Pei Wei Pei Wei is always busy, but it’s certainly worth the wait. Your dining experience isn’t complete without the Lettuce Wraps. From there, delight your taste buds with Beef Ginger Broccoli. 3350 Soncy, 352.5632, peiwei.com $$ C

NEW Pepito’s Mexican Restaurante Y Cantina Happy hour, live music and delicious Mexican food makes Pepito’s the perfect place to hang out with friends. Pair the taquitos al carbon or marinated fajitas with a cold Michelada. 3333 S. Coulter, 353.7373 $$ c T Rain: Premier Sushi Bar & Lounge Rain lights up Polk Street with its sleek, energetic ambience and exceptional menu of contemporary Asian cuisine.

Grab the gang for an evening of flavor and fun. 817 S. Polk, 331.1155 $$ c Red Robin We recommend one hand for a gourmet burger and the other for the bottomless fries and onion rings. (And plenty of napkins.) You’ll leave happy if you finish with a raspberry shake. It’s creamy goodness. If your family needs room to spread out, Red Robin is perfect for large gatherings. 8720 I-40 West, 359.9800, redrobin.com $$ c Roosters Espresso Café Roosters offers more than just a good cup of Joe. Stop in and plan on staying for a hot breakfast pastry or one of the delicious lunch specialties. It’s the perfect place to relax with your friends for lunch. 3440 Bell, 353.7309 $ y

Rosa’s Café & Tortilla Factory Perfect for take-out or a quick, satisfying meal, Rosa’s offers Tex Mex favorites and a fun, upbeat atmosphere. You can’t beat the homemade tortillas, made fresh everyday. 4312 SW 45th, 351.1194, rosascafe.com ^ $ Ruby Tequila’s Mexican Kitchen Ruby’s is Tex-Mex at its finest. Fajita burritos, crispy tacos, stuffed poblanos and savory meats off the grill are just a short list of what the Kitchen offers.

Every Wednesday evening, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with a margarita in hand. 2001 S. Georgia, 358.7829 / 3616 S. Soncy, 463.7829, rubytequilas.com $$ T y c ^ Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q Rudy’s serves up the same original recipes that they’ve used since 1989: brisket, ribs, turkey, pork loin and sausage slow-smoked over an oak fire, seasoned with a secret dry-spice blend and topped with “Sause.” Plenty of sides and delicious desserts ensure that you’ll need lots of napkins. 3751 I-40 West, 677.7452, rudys.com $$

Sabaidee Sabaidee offers a fusion of Asian tastes along with delicious, authentic Laotian dishes like sticky rice with beef jerky, chicken wings and tomato sauce, and papaya salad. Try the Sabaidee Special for a guaranteed taste-treat.

2313 S. Georgia, 331.6720 $ Scott’s Oyster Bar If you are a fresh oyster connoisseur, Scott’s is the place for you. Even though it’s a little on the small side, the quick service and excellent seafood make it one of our favorite places to hang out.

4150 Paramount, 354.9110 $$ y C Smokey Joe’s A welcoming bar and grill located in the historic antique district on Route 66, Smokey Joe’s is one of Amarillo’s best-kept secrets. With an outside patio and live music on the weekends, this is the place to be. When you visit, ask for the Legendary Spink. You won’t regret it.

2903 SW 6th, 331.6698 $$ c y T Tacos Garcia Mexican Café At the Café, serving authentic Mexican food is a family affair. In the same location since 1999, the Veloz family serves up traditional favorites that keep loyal customers coming back time after time. Try the Swiss enchiladas or the Chile Relleno Lampriados. You won’t be disappointed.1100 Ross, 372.0411, tacosgarcia.com $$ c

taste of the city SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Kabuki Romanza

Kabuki Romanza would like to introduce wine dinners at Kabuki, an evening filled with exquisite dining and perfectly balanced wines to compliment. We hope you will join us in the exploration of fine wine and exquisite cuisine at future wine dinners. Each wine dinner will feature a unique dining experience balanced with tantalizing wines, perfect for any occasion. Call Carey or Venita at 353.4242, ext. 6 for more information. Open seven days a week.

11 a.m. – 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.

8130 I-40 West, Amarillo, 353.4242

October 2011 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

71

Taqueria El Tapatio Taqueria El Tapatio serves up authentic Mexican flavor in every dish. It’s just plain good food. The generous portions and affordable prices are easy on your pocketbook, too. 3410 S. Coulter, 331.6248 $ C Texas Chicken Wok Texas Chicken Wok offers fast service with even lower prices. The always-fresh vegetables compliment one of our favorite dishes, the house stir-fry. No matter what you choose, the restaurant delivers an experience that seasons anyone’s taste buds. 2406 Paramount, 351.2600 $ Thai Taste If you’re feeling a bit finicky, Thai Taste will fix that. With more than 20 lunch and dinner entrees, you’ll certainly find a dish that satisfies you, whatever your craving. To spice up your night, try the Chili Special. 7710 Hillside, Suite100, 352.4444 $ Tsunami Tsunami offers traditional Japanesesteakhouse fare at affordable prices.

Start out with Southwestern Egg Rolls then fill up on the Salmon Teppan Meal or Teppanyaki Steak. We guarantee you won’t leave hungry. 1108 Bell, 352.2688 $

72

Tyler Street Café The Café’s menu consists of American classics such as chicken-fried steak and cheeseburgers. Open for breakfast and lunch, the downtown joint serves breakfast burritos in the morning and daily specials throughout the week.

900 S. Tyler, 373.5440 $

Wild Bill’s Decorated like a classic gas station, Wild Bill’s offers American food and friendly service. Bring the whole family since there’s plenty of seating inside and out.

The Green Chili Cheese Burger with hand-cut seasoned fries is our favorite.

3514 SW 6th, 372.4500 $ y C

Village Bakery & Café The Village offers a large selection of handmade European pastries and breads to complement fresh, gourmetstyle breakfasts, lunches and dinners.

The casual bistro setting makes it the perfect place for a special lunch date. 2606 Wolflin Village, 358.1358, villagebakerycafe.com $ ^ y

Willie’s Bayou Grill You’ll be blown away by the aroma of Cajun spices as soon as you step into Willie’s. Have fun with your meal when you choose Peel-um & Eat-um Shrimp, fried alligator or oysters (either baked or on the half shell). Their po’boy sandwiches are sure to fill up the hungriest belly. And of course, classic dishes like Shrimp Creole and Crawfish Etouffee won’t disappoint. 3819 I-40 West, 242.3474, williesbayougrill.com $y

Wheels, Chicken & Waffles You’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time to a quaint old-fashioned diner when you visit Wheels. The inside is covered with vintage car memorabilia and wheels galore. We love the southernfried chicken with waffles. The mix of savory and sweet is delicious. Save room for dessert when you dine because you won’t want to miss the waffle cheesecake: a big, Belgian waffle piled high with cheesecake filling, whipped cream and both chocolate and caramel syrup. 2710 10th, 342.5400 $

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

Wing Stop Wing Stop cooks up some of the best chicken wings around. There’s a flavor for every palate. And if you haven’t had sugared French fries, you just haven’t lived. 6000 SW 45th #260, 356.9464 / 3300 I-40 East, Suite P, 331.9464, wingstop.com $$ C ^

Woodshed Bar-B-Que With “every bite prepared on site,” you can bet Woodshed will deliver fresh, homemade fare that will surely satisfy.

Eat your fill of barbecue platters and “sammiches” and classic dishes that fill the massive menu board. If you’re having a case of the Mondays, drop by after work and kick back and relax with $1 beer and live music. 2734 Westhaven Village, 322.1842 $ – $$ y ☎ Young Sushi Rocks The friendly greeting you receive when you walk into Young’s is your first clue that your experience will be a good one. The helpful staff is always willing to offer suggestions regarding the sushi. If sushi’s not your thing, try the authentic Thai cuisine. 202 SW 10th, 371.7200 $$

C^ Youngblood’s Stockyard Café Experience the Western heritage of Amarillo at the Stockyard Café. The Café serves up excellent steaks that will surely satisfy your craving for beef.

Plus, the Stockyard also offers a hearty breakfast every day starting at 6 a.m.

101 S. Manhattan, 374.6024 $$ C

Can I save on the cost of my diabetes supplies?

Getting more out of what you currently have means more money in your pocket.

9 out of 10 patients said… they wasted fewer test strips when using FreeStyle Lite® test strips vs. the competition.* FreeStyle Lite blood glucose test strips are easy to use!

• Unique ZipWik™ tabs wick the surface of the blood for easy and fast blood application • Reapply blood for up to 60 seconds • Small sample size of only 0.3 microliter For In Vitro Diagnostic Use

Try the FreeStyle® Brand Today!

Available at:

Valmed Home Health & Pharmacy Solutions

806–350–6337

FreeStyle Lite® blood glucose test strips are intended to be used with FreeStyle Lite® and FreeStyle Freedom Lite® meters only. FreeStyle® blood glucose test strips are intended to be used with FreeStyle® (also known as FreeStyle® 3 and FreeStyle® 5), FreeStyle Flash® and FreeStyle Freedom® meters only. *Claim based on study subject preferences among subjects with a preference. Home use study conducted in October–November 2008 among lay user diabetic subjects who routinely monitored blood glucose at home but had no prior experience with any studied meter. Subjects used both the FreeStyle Lite® meter and ZipWik™ tab strips and their current system to test at least 4 times/day for 7 days with each system; subjects during separate week tested in same frequency using their current system and one of three competitive systems (OneTouch® Ultra®2 meter/Ultra test strips system; Bayer Contour ® system; or Accu-Chek® Aviva system).

Trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2011 Abbott. ART22468 Rev. A 07/11

October

Image courtesy of Amarillo Public Library Archives

retro rewind

Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, located on the campus of West Texas A&M University, opened in 1933. The museum stands as the largest history museum in Texas at 285,000 square feet and displays more than two million artifacts of the Southwest from cowboy and Indian relics to replicas of a pioneer town as well as Comanche Chief Quanah Parker’s eagle feather headdress.

74

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

THE REINVENTED

2012 CAMRY. IT’S READY. ARE YOU? Now available with Entune.™

The best selling car in America just got better!

www.street-toyota.com 45th & Soncy . 355-9846 1-800-6STREET

spotlight

Danny Fuentes Athlete, student, sports fan

P

umping up crowds at WTAMU games in a hot buffalo suit may not be the most comfortable job out there, but for Danny Fuentes, it’s worth every drop of sweat.

“I remember myself being out there as an athlete and it helped out a lot when the crowd would yell,” Danny says, recalling his days as a high school athlete.

Taking on the role of Bucky for the second year, Danny is an avid athlete and fan, having played football, basketball and volleyball in his hometown of Denver City, Texas. In addition to participating in intramural sports, he is studying sports and exercise science and athletic training.

Danny originally studied nursing, but the adrenaline rushes in the ER and trauma room could not satisfy his craving for athletics.

“I just love being around sports and I love medicine so I figured why not go with sports medicine,” he states.

After graduating from WTAMU, Danny plans to continue his studies to prepare him for his dream job: an athletic trainer for the Dallas Cowboys or the Texas Rangers. am

Q&A If I had a time machine I would travel to…

I wouldn’t use the time machine because I live in the present and have no regrets.

Right now, I’m listening to… country and hip hop.

In an alternate life, I would’ve been a…

Dallas Cowboy.

My favorite most-quotable movie is… “Dumb and Dumber.”

My friends and family call me… Romo, Fuego, Bucky or Danny.

You may be surprised to know that I… speak two languages because although I look/ am Hispanic, nobody ever thinks I can speak it.

For the full story, log on to amarillomagonline.com.

76

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • October 2011

The greatest piece of advice I’ve ever received is… never settle.

photo by Jeff Harbin, Life of Riley Photography

I’m secretly addicted to the TV series…

“Make It or Break It.” It’s because of my girlfriend…

2011 CadillaC SRX

FULL PAGE 9.5” x 11.375” with bleed

CHEVROLET

CADILLAC

I-40 & Coulter • 806-356-5600 • www.westgatechevy.com

FULL PAGE 9.5” x 11.375” with bleed