Amarillo Magazine | April 2010

special advertising sections: builder profiles and rotary action

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com

go outside: Your Guide to Playing in the Panhandle

the mckinney family

You’re Going Places

Makers of quality outdoor gear know just what you want, and this spring, they deliver.

Pre-Hike Prep

Before tackling your next trailhead, take a moment to stretch.

from the rearview

We talk with author and speaker Ron Hall about his second book, What Difference Do it Make?

contents

On the cover 48 Go Outside:

Your Guide to Playing in the Panhandle Spring is here and that means it’s time to get back outside. For the outdoor adventure seeker, it means planning a one-day hike, a weekend excursion or a weeklong trek in the wilderness.

Whatever your interest, we’ll tell you what the Panhandle has to cure your cabin fever.

Features 31 You’re Going Places And we’ve got the stuff to get you there.

Weather resistant, waterproof, and wicking – it all matters. Makers of quality outdoor gear know just what you want, and this spring, they deliver.

40 Pre-Hike Prep Before tackling your next trailhead, take a moment to stretch. Injuries can happen to even the most in-shape and über-careful outdoorsmen. Preparing your muscles for the mission ahead can mean the difference between your next adventure and a month of bed rest.

60 From the Rearview We talk with author and speaker Ron Hall about his second book, What Difference Do it Make? and how he credits his late-wife, Deborah, for changing the course of his life.

sections

48 4

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

Letter/Online Page...... 8 Out & About............. 10 The Way I See It....... 26 Get Involved............. 28 Dress Code............... 31 To Your Health.......... 38 Inside...................... 44 Outside.................... 46 Special Feature........ 60 The Mckinney family PHOTO BY SHANNON RICHARDSON

Inspire..................... 64 Book Nook............... 70 What’s Cooking?....... 72 Events..................... 77 Let’s Eat!................. 93 Retro Rewind......... 116 Local Exposure....... 118 Spotlight................ 120

Publisher

Editor

Features Writer

Creative Services Manager

Michele McAffrey 806.345.3256 michele.mcaffrey@amarillo.com Jennie Treadway-Miller 806.345.3223 jennie.miller@amarillo.com Steven Adams

Designers

Jeremy Say Livia Woodburn

Intern

Andrea Jones

Staff Photographer

Darren Hendricks, DVISO Visual Communications

Mike Distelhorst

Advertising Director

T

Kevin Briles

Freelance Designer

editor’s letter

Les Simpson

Classified Sales Cindy Brown Manager

Retail Sales Manager

Jaime Pipkin

Online Sales Manager

Kendra Barrett

Dewey Shanks

Major/National Accounts Manager

Account

Representatives

Kimberly Barclay Laura Collins Sharon Denny Trish Faris Cory Griggs Rick Miller Hailey Morrison Michelle Parsons Marcy Weldon Cindy Ledesma Austin Ridling Patrick O’Rand

Ad Services Manager

Jennifer Thomas 806.345.3226 jennifer.thomas@amarillo.com

Sales Assistants

Natasha Reavis Charla Moore Sarena Poor Keisha Stepp

Patrick Ayala

Online Production Manager Programmer

Tosh Lyons

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 Mike O’Connor

Division Controller 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.

6

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

here’s nothing that compares to waking up at first light, sipping a stout cup of coffee, watching the sunrise and appreciating the beauty of nature. From the balcony of my deluxe hotel suite, that is. And since mornings aren’t my strong suit, I’ll take my coffee in bed, thank you very much, and make a point to enjoy sunsets instead – as long as I don’t have to endure pesky night bugs!

Try not to fault me. I was born this way. I’ve never been remotely close to being “the outdoorsy type.” My father was blessed with twin girls and lucky for him, my sister Robin has always been able to fill the role of the son he never had. She would gladly stay by his side for hours on end when he took us fishing. Not me. I’d sit in misery and try not to whine.

And as I recall, I didn’t do a very good job. To this day, my sister’s idea of a fun vacation is basking in the summer heat by day and camping in a tent by night.

While I’ve always admired her strength, that still sounds like a vacation from you-know-where to me.

Needless to say, I was dragged out of my comfort zone this month as we tackled our “Go Outside” issue. When it comes to the Great Outdoors and all the gear that one needs to enjoy it, I’m certainly no expert. Last month’s fashion issue? It made my heart happy. Thankfully, our outside theme this month did just that for our features writer, Jennie Treadway-Miller. She’s an avid outdoor adventurer. I enjoyed watching her painstakingly compile the information for each feature, especially Dress Code.

Each month as I shop for the beautiful clothes and accessories that our models wear, I’ll bring in all the merchandise, spread it out around the office, and exclaim with joy, “Isn’t this just the loveliest shoe you’ve ever seen?”

Whether she cares or not, Jennie will smile and nod until I’ve gotten it out of my system. This month, it was Jennie’s turn to feel elated. I think my favorite moment was seeing her carry in a load of shopping bags full of hiking shoes, North Face jackets, and UPF gear while hearing her gush, “This is a dream come true!”

As always, this issue was a labor of love. We love what we do and truly enjoy bringing you the best that Amarillo has to offer. We especially love hearing from our readers. How are we doing? Let us know at amarillomagonline.com.

As always - thanks for reading,

amarillo voices

ADV SPECIA L

: HOW G SECTION ERTISIN

TO PROFILE

agon • amar illom MARC H 2010

Styles Maker

flair, instinct, r own. locals with Meet six and a style all thei e, confidenc

E MINIATURES LANDSCAP

h this mont outside in Bring the ing your own mini- . by creat nt in a terrarium environme

aster_Cover.indd

I

have always enjoyed Amarillo Magazine but the March 2010 issue may have been your best yet! I don’t know if I can tell you exactly what it is but I thought that there was good value in the content and the ads were especially well done. Perhaps I am just so desperate for spring and all the bright colors are appealing!

S 2010

line.c om

Warmest Regards,

BETO,

OWNER OF UGLYPRESS HAIRDRESSING

CAN YES, YOU T! WEAR THA

solid-color from your Break free sets and experience way. sweater a bold, new fashion in

1

March_M

Kimbra Elgin

SINK TH YOUR TEEAmarillo

y renamed season The newl another back for Venom are indoor football. of

2/18/10

11:50:40

We want to hear from you! Your feedback helps us know what you want to read. Do you have a favorite section in the magazine? Let us know at amarillomagonline.com.

AM

I really enjoy looking at all the cool things going on in Amarillo.

Amarillo Magazine provides great advertisng and interesting ads that apply to home. Great job!

I enjoy reading Amarillo Magazine and I get a lot of information that I use.

I love Amarillo Magazine and look forward to reading it each month.

Evelyn O’Connell

Pat Burch

Leigha Mesa

I enjoy reading Amarillo Magazine and seeing what local businesses I can learn about.

I love Amarillo Magazine. I like to cook and am looking forward to trying something new.

Rebecca Sotelo

Anita London

Correction:

In March’s Retro Rewind, we incorrectly listed L.O. Thompson in the car with First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. It should have read Mrs. L.O. Thompson.

amarillomagonline.com Register to Win Log on to amarillomagonline.com/contest and register to win a Kelty Big Basin 2-Liter Hydration system, a leather-bound journal and three Texas Pocket Naturalist Guides to begin your own outdoor adventure.

! s i h t Win Congratulations!

Lauren Altendorf is the March giveaway winner of a sushi set and a gift card to United.

8

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

Meet the McKinneys Read about our cover family, the McKinneys, and how they like to stay active in the Panhandle.

Welcome Home Learn about the Ronald McDonald Family Room at NWTH.

out & about

Centennial Gala The Centennial Gala on February 13th brought together many people from the West Texas A&M family as they celebrated 100 years of achievements as an educational institution. The event was held at the First United Bank Center in Canyon. It was a time for alumni, faculty, students and the community to commemorate WTAMU. Guests enjoyed dancing to live jazz from the band Pizazz. Dr. J. Patrick O’Brien, University president, and Dr. Charles Townsend, professor emeritus of history, spoke at the event.

1

1. Kimber Thompson and Steven Rossi, 2. Leif and Miranda Knippers, 3. Dr. Lance Kieth, 4. Tracee and Robert Post, 5. Liz McCabe, Noah Forsberg, Kristin Williams and Ben Blystone, 6. Brandy Roberts, Jesse Jones, Katie Gustainis and Tim Vella, 7. Kathi and Don Lee and Patrick Swindell

2

4

3

5

6 7 10

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

PHOTos BY jeff harbin, life of riley photography

Moonwater Designs By Marci

We have many great items to choose from for Mother’s Day!

You don’t want to miss our next 2nd Weekend!

April 9th & 10th Friday and Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

Visit our outdoor displays New Fragrant Candles Fragrant Reeds Moonwater (1½ Miles West of Soncy) vd.

FARMHOUSE FRESH Bath & Body

Amarillo Bl

RV Park

Soncy

ver sso Cro

I-40

For Consultation, call Marci

806.236.1799

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

11

out & about

2

1

Good Scout Luncheon

3

On February 16th, the Amarillo Civic Center Grand Plaza was filled with more than 500 Boy Scouts and supporters for the Annual Golden Spread Council Good Scout Luncheon. The event was a celebration of the Boys Scouts’ 100th anniversary as well as a fundraiser that benefits Boy Scouts in the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles. The recipient of the 2010 Good Scout Award was Monsignor Joseph Tash and the Pioneer Gun Collectors Association. The guest speaker was Brad Sham, the sportscaster who is better known as “the voice of the Dallas Cowboys.”

1. Jake Reynolds; Noah, Baron and Jack Truelock, 2. Marty Huffman and Jay Ricci, 3. Kel Seliger, 4. Scott Bentley, 5.Cliff Craig, 6. Brad Sham, 7. Ron Boyd, 8. Tony Love

4

7

5 8

6 12

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

PHOTos BY jeff harbin, life of riley photography

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

13

out & about

2

1

5

3

4

March for Babies Luncheon On February 18th, supporters filled the Amarillo Civic Center Grand Plaza for the March for Babies Luncheon which was the kick-off for the 2010 March for Babies. One out of every eight babies born in the Texas Panhandle is born prematurely. The March of Dimes’ mission is to aid in research that will improve the health of all babies. Guest speaker for the event was Dr. Joyce Chuachingco.

1. Shaun Landry and Ronda Schaeffer, 2. Amanda Goodman and Cassadie Lock, 3. Leslie Sims and Adelynn Grisham, 4. Arna Reynolds and Becky Ringbauer, 5. Will Grisham, 6. Monsignor Joseph Tash

6

14

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

PHOTos BY jeff harbin, life of riley photography

Let us take

care of you for your special occasion!

Highlights • Cut&Style • Up-Do’s • Waxing • Exclusive Tanning

2921 I-40 West #100 • 806-354-8100

www.salonatwolflinpointe.com

Luxury at its Finest

Marketing & Media LuLu Web Designs - Elizabeth Liles

only at

2614 Wolflin Wolflin Village • 806.356.5875 • Mon-Sat 10 am - 5 pm

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

15

out & about

Go Red For Women

1

Red was definitely the color of choice at the Go Red for Women Luncheon held March 17th. Heart disease is the number one killer of women in the U.S., and Amarilloans filled the Amarillo Civic Center Heritage room in support of the American Heart Association. The event was held to increase awareness about heart disease risks and provide women with information and answers.

Three cardiologists were on site to answer participant’s questions along with free screenings to check blood pressure and cholesterol. During the luncheon, motivational speaker Sally Baskey provided a few words of advice and encouragement.

2

1. Tracy Cortesi and Penny Glover, 2. Alicia Rowell, 3. Susan Hunter, Becky McDonald, Melissa Bundy, Logan Hicks and Theresa King, 4. Doris Eden, Darlene Richardson and Patsy Sparkman, 5.Brooke McKinney and Donna Christy, 6. Becky Leidig, 7. Helen Neal and Gloria Roberts, 8. Helen Gambrel and Kim Rich

3

4

5

8 7 6 16

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

PHOTos BY donna alexander

The Village Antique Mall

Antiques

Collectibles

Home Decor

Gifts

Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

2711 Stanley Street Amarillo 806.372.4472

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

17

out & about

2 1

AC Distinguished Lecture Series featuring Cal Ripken, Jr.

3

4

Amarillo College’s Student Government Association has been scheduling renowned speakers for 23 years. On February 9th, guests listened to Cal Ripken, Jr., National Baseball Hall of Fame inductee. Ripken shared stories of determination and motivation at the Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts. The SGA raffled off 10 autographed baseballs and one special item, a Baltimore Orioles jersey autographed by Ripken. More than 900 people attended the event. Proceeds will go towards scholarships for AC students.

1. Victor Leal, Jennifer Ashley, Joe Wyatt and Debbie Webb, 2. Ryan and Wade King, 3. Michele Fortunato, C.C. Mongrain, Tyler Adams and Heather Atchley, 4. Dr. Paul Matney, 5. Aaron and Dan Schaap, 6. Averi, Shelly and Will Baxter, 7. Rod and Mary Alt, 8. Braxton Grady, Michael Perez, Ryne Williams and Brandon Britten, 9. John and Janna Kiehl, 10. Dorothy McGill, Jackie Gavlik and Jan Hodges

5

8

6 7

9 18

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

10 PHOTos BY donna alexander

806.352.0321 • Wolflin Square

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

19

out & about

2

4

1 3

5

6

8 7

WTAMU 100th Anniversary WTAMU celebrated its 100th anniversary with a founder’s day birthday party on February 17th at the Jack B. Kelley student center. As part of the birthday bash, guests feasted on 1,000 cupcakes, a two-layer red velvet birthday cake and washed it all down with “buffalo milk,” bottles of milk with the WTAMU logo. People viewed remnants from the 1985 time capsule, which will be on display until November 2010. Student body president Kirk Scarbrough gave a welcome to guests and President J. Patrick O’Brien read a letter from the former university president. The university also gave attendees collector Coca-Cola bottles with its centennial logo.

9 20

1. Don Albrecht and Steven Knadle, 2. Tarin Lee, Thomas Roberts and Kyle Thomas, 3. Dina Cross, Becky Stogner and Keith Brown, 4. Kayla Schaap and Blair Boren, 5. Juan Aponte, Piero Taliente and Julio Rada, 6. Stormi Lancaster, Haleigh Cearley and Kelsey Mangum, 7. Austin Bagwell, Kayla Baker and Erynn Robinson, 8. Logan Moore and Layton Brooker, 9. Ciro Baldiviezo

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

PHOTos BY donna alexander

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

21

out & about

Family Support Services Mardi Gras

2 1

On February 27th, the Family Support Services hosted their first ever Mardi Gras party as a fundraiser for FSS. Entitled “Let the Good Times Roll,” the festivities started at 7 p.m. in the FSS Barrel Building. Attendants participated in a Cajun dinner, casino games and silent auctions. Guests were also entertained with music from Blake Clark of Dumas and two local artists, Patrick Swindell and Pizzazz. Family Support Services is a nonprofit organization that focuses on strengthening children, families and individuals in the Texas Panhandle.

3

1. Millie Bingham, Marsha Hughes and Cheryl Stallings, 2. Shellie Callaway and Peggy Smith, 3. Gary and Debbie Jackson, 4. Rebecca Fulkerson and Karen Thompson, 5. Laviza Hollingsworth, Ashley Eustace and Nellye Herrera, 6. Ronnie Walker and Tena Scott, 7. Don Nicholson, Dale Williams, Tommy Smith and Prenis Williams, 8. Priscilla Garcia and Nicole Espinoza, 9. Lauren and Nick Nevarez, 10. Terry Stroud, Jamie Black and Melinda Harlow, 11. Crystal Winn

4

5

6

8 7

11

9 22

10

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

PHOTos BY donna alexander

COUNTRY BARN STEAKHOUSE

The Story of Bonsmara Natural Beef

A

t one point, there were more than a thousand unique breeds of cattle in the world.

A few of them became household names. Others faded away. Bonsmara, a name not many people recognize in the beef industry, is slowly earning its place by the high quality attributes it brings to both ranchers and steak eaters alike.

George and Karen Chapman of Amarillo, Texas, pioneered the importation of the Bonsmara breed of cattle into North America. These calves embodied the total North American population of a breed highly prized in its native South Africa for adaptation to heat and drought as well as the tender, juicy and flavorful meat it was known for.

This breed is second to none, as it was developed through an intensive systematic approach that combined exceptional traits by the world-acclaimed scientist from the University of South Africa, Dr. Jan Bonsma. Professor Bonsma converted his vision and an unequaled pursuit of excellence into a breed productive in hot subtropical climates while producing beef preferred by markets in North America and the Pacific Rim. Numerous universities are evaluating the overall value of Bonsmara beef throughout the country. Our appreciation first and foremost goes out to Texas A&M for their involvement at the beginning. We are encouraged by the latest research proving what we’ve known all along. You’ve got to start with the right genetics in order to end with great tasting beef!

The Chapmans are proud to announce The Country Barn is licensed as the first restaurant in the United States to serve this all natural, lean, tender delicacy.

America’s Most Tender Beef Texas A&M Research shows….

Bonsmara Natural Beef strip loin is 13-16% more tender than certified Angus Beef.

13% Warner-Bratzler Shear, 16% Slice Shear: Texas A&M and SYSCO Foods.

Bonsmara Natural Beef loin has 34% less intramuscular fat than roasted chicken breast meat without skin.

Bonsmara Natural Beef loin has 35% less intramuscular cholesterol than roasted chicken breast without skin.

Only available at 8200 I-40 West Amarillo • 806-335-2325 countrybarnsteakhouse.com

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

23

out & about

3 1

2

6

4

2010 Torch Awards for Marketplace Ethics The Better Business Bureau held its annual Torch Awards on February 26th at the West Texas A&M University Alumni Banquet Facility to honor businesses who perform ethically within the community. The winner of the small business category was Catmandu Inc. and other finalists were Scottie’s Transmission Inc. and Shreiner Plumbing Inc. The medium business winner was Elliot Russell Office Supplies and Furniture. Finalists included Broome Optical and Education Credit Union.

Talon/LPE was the winner of the large business group and the finalists were First United Bank and Golden Plains Community Hospital.

1. Jeff Shreiner, J.R. Rieck and Jeremy Shreiner, 2. Janna Kiehl, 3. Chip Newell, 4. Angela Brice, Randy and Susan Gray, 5. Dr. Duane Rosa, 6. David and Kellie Prescott, 7. Greg Ammons, Vicki and Matt Edwards, 8. Jeff Bara, 9. Gary and Theresa Rider, Carolyn Balzar and Jim Owens, 10. Rusty Conway, Jason Reep and Pat O’Brien

24

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

5

7

8 9

10 PHOTos BY ashley grossman

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

25

the way i see it

Jon Mark Beilue

Embracing My Lifelong Rangerdom I

’m coming out of the closet. I’m tired of living a lie, keeping secrets, making excuses. I’m tired of the double life and no longer care who I shame, disappoint, or even anger. It’s who I am, and it’s time to embrace that fact.

I’m a lifelong Texas Rangers baseball fan.

If you think that shouldn’t be that hard to admit, you’ve obviously never been a lifelong Texas Rangers baseball fan. It’s mostly an anonymous group that’s learned to live with mediocrity punctuated by occasional hope only to be deflated by reality.

This is not the same as being a die-hard Chicago Cubs fan. That’s cool. That’s in. That’s all yuppie and cute. The Lovable Losers haven’t won a World Series since 1908, haven’t been to one since 1945. But the Cubs, oh, excuse me, Cubbies, have a national following. They’re baseball.

Tell someone you’re a Rangers fan, and a hard-core one at that, and there’s two responses. One is changing the subject, like they don’t know what to say in an awkward moment like that. The other is a quizzical look followed by the obvious, “Why?” It started as teen, as most bad habits do. The Rangers came to Arlington from Washington, D.C. in 1972. KGNC radio started to carry them at about that time. And still do.

Try driving a John Deere 4020 day after hot day in the summer with a tractor radio as the only contact with the outside world. By 7 p.m., there’s only so much music and news a guy can take. That’s when the Rangers would come on, and I waited for it all day. That signaled two things – wretched baseball was about to start, and only two more hours until I could quit.

But they became my team, are still my team, and always will be my team. And I don’t know why other than old habits, unlike the Rangers pennant chances most years, die hard. Going into the fifth decade, I’ve been quietly loyal, from the 20-games-out-offirst-place seasons to the glory years of the late 1990s with three American League West titles.

And one playoff win. One. In 1996. For the first 24 years of existence, they didn’t even play a meaningful game in September. With the exception of the Washington Nationals, no Major League team – none – has as little postseason history as the Rangers. Outside of the state, they’re about as nondescript a franchise as there is. And not all that descript inside the state.

So why haven’t I given up on them

26

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

and climbed aboard the Red Sox bandwagon like every other living, breathing, baseball fan in the world? Do you give up on your kids when they disappoint you? Don’t you hold out hope they’ll one day make you proud?

So I spend most spring/summer evenings watching them on the tube. Or coming in from something and quickly turning on the game, or having to miss the game all together, checking the crawl on ESPN or the computer and expecting the worst. I will occasionally throw in my two cents on a Rangers blog and subscribe to the Newberg Report. That kind of addiction is not the kind of thing you usually share with friends who probably lead a more carefree summer existence.

I’m reminded, usually once a summer, by my wife of when one of our kids was small and she had him in his room at night on the side of the bed in a nighttime prayer.

“And God bless grandma and granddad…”

“YOU IDIOT!” Maybe the prayer did get loudly interrupted from the living room, but the Rangers got the tying run picked off first base in the bottom of the ninth inning.

The 2010 baseball season starts the first Monday of April, and hallelujah for that. The measuring stick for most Rangers fans usually is to at least stay in contention until the Cowboys start training camp in July. Anything after that is gravy.

But I’ve hiked expectations considerably, especially this year. I really feel good about the Rangers. No, really. They’ve got youth and talent and some veteran leadership, new ownership and a clue. They’ve been following the draft-anddevelop plan now for about three years and I’m drinking the Ranger’s Kool-Aid. Actually, I’m doing more than that. Those Rangers caps that stay on top of the closet? I’m wearing them. The old Rangers T-shirt with the sleeves cut out? I’m running in it. In public, too.

Make fun if you want but I don’t care. We shall overcome. I’m out there, baby. Loud and proud. am Jon Mark Beilue is a columnist for the Amarillo Globe-News.

He can be reached at jon.beilue@amarillo.com or 345.3318.

COME SEE OUR NEWLY REMODELED SHOW ROOM!

TEST RIDE* A NEW 2010 HARLEY DAVIDSON * RESTRICTIONS APPLY - SEE STORE FOR DETAILS

TRIPP’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON

6040 W I-40 . AMARILLO . 352.2021 . TRIPPSHD.COM

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

27

get involved

All the Comforts of Home An afternoon at the Ronald McDonald House

by Michele McAffrey

e rooms for the next guest.

Volunteer Jane Henton readies one of the privat Cheyenne Hernandez and Cody Melton

E

ven though my family has done its share of hospital time, I’m one of the lucky ones. I haven’t needed to endure the stress associated with being in another city while a loved one endures a lengthy medical procedure. If you suddenly found yourself far from home with no family or friends to lend their support, what would you do?

You’d probably stay at the Ronald McDonald House.

What began as the brainchild of Fred Hill, a former Philadelphia Eagles tight end, in an old house near The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia has spread around the world as Ronald McDonald House Charities prepares to open their 300th house in 2010. The Houses are designed to give families that might otherwise be separated because of long-term medical treatment a comfortable place to live during a hospital stay.

When I visited our local House, Sally Strange, the volunteer director gave me a quick tour and made me feel at home right away. Sally has boundless energy and cheer and I could envision her going out of her way everyday to make her guests feel comfortable and cared for. The facilities are impressive and made me feel like I’d walked into the hospitality room of a nice hotel. The private bedrooms are equally comfortable and furnished to give guests an at-home feel.

One of the families I met had just delivered a baby boy at Northwest Texas Hospital. He was born 2 ½ months premature, so Cheyenne Hernandez and Cody Melton expected to stay at R.M.H. for at least three months before taking their son home. In fact, according to

28

Jan Reid, executive director of the local House, the highest percentage of guests are moms with premature babies, approximately 70 percent. And they usually have to stay several months. Being able to stay at the House means the world to the couple. They were referred to R.M.H. by the hospital and both said they don’t know what they would have done without the support and care they’ve received.

“People don’t know how great the Ronald McDonald House is until they have to use it,” Cheyenne told me.

Without R.M.H., the couple would have to travel back and forth from Dalhart to see their son and talk to his doctors. Cheyenne was quick to tell me that she’s grateful she didn’t have to leave her son and is comforted knowing he’s close. Since their son is in NICU, they can stay up at the hospital as much as they want to, but there are only specific times that they can go in and touch him. R.M.H. provides them with a resting place when they aren’t visiting the baby along with one or two hot meals a day. Each guest family also has access to its own apartment-size refrigerator and pantry area so guests have the option of cooking for themselves and storing food for their family.

I attempted to shadow one of R.M.H. volunteers, Jane Henton.

But when Jane signs in for work, she gets right to business. She’s got a job to do and two hours, one day a week to do it. Jane has been coming to the House every Tuesday for three years and as I watched photos by jeff harbin, life of riley photography

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

her work, I was touched. She moves quickly through the facilities as if it’s her own home, restocking and organizing the kitchen and doing laundry.

There’s always a to-do list waiting for her, but Jane has her routine down and knows where to get started. Some people have a special gift of nurturing and Jane clearly does. Maybe it comes from more than twenty years of experience as a teacher. Maybe it’s from raising children, or maybe it’s just her nature. Whatever the reason, Jane’s behind the scenes work was real and inspiring.

Jane moved to Amarillo seven years ago. Her children are grown and gone and she didn’t want to sit at home on her down time. She needed a purpose – something to do to help others. A few of her friends give their time at R.M.H. so Jane knew it fulfilled an important need. Also Jane told me since she works with Kindergarteners all day, it’s very calming after school to work and make a tangible difference behind the scenes.

If you’ve ever thought I can’t do much, but I can do, then The Ronald McDonald House is the place for you. If you have a just few hours a week like Jane, you can still really make a difference either at the House or in the Ronald McDonald Family Room at NWTH. From cooking and cleaning to clerical work, there are a myriad of ways to help families during possibly the hardest time of their lives. am

If you have a volunteer opportunity available and would like to see it featured, contact Michele at michele.mcaffrey@amarillo.com

You Can Help!

• Bake cookies or casseroles • Clerical work • Assist with dinners • Get a group together and cook a meal • Help with household chores • Collect pop tabs in R.M.H. house-shaped boxes to display

at your job, club, or school that helps store collected tabs • Be a Ronald McDonald Family Room volunteer, located at Northwest Texas Hospital • Shifts in the Family Room are 3 hours starting at 9 a.m., 7 days a week

For more information about volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House or the R.M. Family Room, call Sally Strange at 358.8177

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

29

30

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

dress code

You’re Going Places

A

nd we’ve got the stuff to get you there. Any adventure seeker will tell you the importance of function before fashion. Weather resistant, waterproof, and wicking – it all matters. Fortunately, the makers of quality outdoor gear know that you want to look good on whatever trail you’re blazing. Made with quality materials in bright spring colors, we’ve found the newest goodies from local shops you’re gonna want for your next adventure.

Photos by Pam Lary Photography

31

Bare Necessities (previous page) Brunton Adventure Racing Compass $40, ABC Blueprint

1.

4.

1. The NF’s superior lab and field-tested waterproof fabric technology gives outdoorsmen ultimate protection against the elements. Breathable, light, and practical – consider this jacket a worthwhile investment. The North Face Venture HyVent™ Jacket DT $99, Gander Mountain

2.

3.

2. Can’t decide between pants or shorts? How about both? Buy a pant that let’s you change your mind, as many times as you need.

Columbia Men’s Aruba III Pants with Omni Shade $55, Academy Sports + Outdoors 3. Its moisture wicking and quick drying features make the Runshade a go-to t-shirt for layering or simply on its own. The UPF in the fabric is an added bonus. Patagonia Runshade T-shirt with UPF 30 $39, Top Notch Outfitters 4. This breezy top is made from lightweight organic cotton, which means every gust of wind will hit your skin and keep you cool.

Patagonia Short Sleeved A/C shirt $69, Top Notch Outfitters 5. Experience maximum water repellency and a break from the sun with an authentic Fedora style Filson hat. You can even adjust the wire brim. Filson Tin Bush Hat $52.50, Riverfields Outfitters 6. Perfect for backpacking, camping and fishing, this nylon shirt boasts UPF 30 with a mesh lining for ventilation. Exofficio Men’s Reef Runner Lite $68, Riverfields Outfitters

32

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

5.

6.

7.

9.

8.

7. Ample sun shade and collapsibility already make for a great hat, but if the skies open up and you get drenched, this hat will dry out in no time. Columbia Omni Shade Ranger Booney hat $25, Gander Mountain 8. Soft jersey cotton makes for a comfy, lightweight, easy-care tee.

A splash of pink means you don’t have to blend into the background.

The North Face Sabino Tee $25, Gander Mountain

11.

10.

9. This jacket speaks versatility with a hood that fits over your bike helmet or rolls down to stow out of the way. Wad up the entire jacket and stuff it into one of the hand-warmer pockets, or keep it on with the pit zippers open for ventilation. Patagonia Torrentshell jacket $119, Top Notch Outfitters 10. Enjoy extra sun protection in a cropped pant that still allows for movement. The quick-drying fabric works well whether on land or wading in water. Columbia Arch Cape III Clamdiggers with UPF 15 $60, Gander Mountain

12.

11. Quite possibly the ideal top for an authentic outdoorswoman, this tailored, vented wicking shirt has UPF 40 protection and feels light as a feather against your skin. Roll up the convertible sleeves on a hot day. Columbia PFG Tamiami II shirt $60, Gander Mountain 12. Part organic cotton, part recycled polyester (with a dash of spandex) means you have a wrinkle-resistant shirt that’s breathable and light. Patagonia Vitaliti Vee $49, Top Notch Outfitters

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

33

Pack like a Pro 1. For any backpacker’s excursion, the definitive pack will come from North Face. The shoulder padding complements the hip belt, orchestrating precise and necessary weight distribution and comfort over your entire upper body. Tool, trekking pole and ski loops galore, there are enough compartments and hiding places in this pack to stash everything you’ll need. The North Face Crestone 60 $209, Hill’s Sports Shop

2.

1.

2. Use this pack during the week for your laptop then sling it on your back for a two-day hike on the weekend.

There’s a water bottle pocket, a fleece-lined top pocket for your glasses, ample space for clothes, food and other supplies in the main compartment, and there’s even a safety whistle on the sternum strap.

Patagonia Crosstown backpack $99, Top Notch Outfitters

5.

3. Perfect for snacks, an MP3 player, a mini-First Aid kit and field guide, use this waist pack for full day hikes or bike rides. It comes with one 500 mL shatter-resistant water bottle (and space for another) and has reflective accent piping so you can be seen at night.

High Sierra Express waist pack $29.99, Gander Mountain 4. For short hikes or a quick trip to town, when you only need identification and few other necessities, throw on this multi-pocket nylon purse with an adjustable (or removable) shoulder strap. Chisco MP Purse $19.99, Gander Mountain

4.

3.

5. The travel sling hangs snug around your torso, close to your center of balance, and has a roomy main compartment. With two additional pockets in front, a key chain clip, space for an MP3 player and a mesh water bottle pocket, Patagonia made a lightweight pack that doubles as a purse. Patagonia Lightweight Travel Sling $59, Top Notch Outfitters 6. Ideal for bikers and hikers alike, stay hydrated with a 2-liter Kelty pack which also has room for snacks, bandages, MP3 player and cell phone. Kelty Big Basin 2-Liter Hydration System $54.99, Target

34

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

6.

1. This shoe is so light and comfortable that you might forget you’re wearing it. The combination of mesh and solid outsole translate to a well-ventilated shoe/sandal with optimal traction. It also boasts a Bamboo liner for extra comfort and odor control. Salomon Women’s Light Amphibian 2 $75, Hill’s Sport Shop 2. Keep your feet dry and protected from extreme elements while maintaining optimal flexibility in the sole. The multidirectional tread provides reliable traction and shock absorption. Keen Men’s Targhee II Mid boot $120, Top Notch Outfitters 3. The fundamentals of a worthwhile trail shoe are durability and support, as well as waterproof capabilities and breathability. You get a lightweight, stable shoe with the ultra-convenient feature of the Boa® lacing system – click and turn the knob at your heel for a secure fit.

The North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR $130, Hill’s Sport Shop 4. To say this shoe fits like a glove is a little obvious, but it isn’t far from the truth. Go from bouldering to hiking to paddling in one shoe that offers a secure and personalized fit. The flexible performance rubber keeps a firm grip on the ground while protecting every single toe.

Vibram Fivefingers Women’s Sprint $80, Hill’s Sport Shop

Blaze a

Trail

5. Go on and punish your body.

These shoes can handle it. The hybrid hiking shoe/sandal can go from land to water to land again with confidence and stability.

Tender toes are protected by carbon rubber and the hydrophobic foam lining of the inner shoe keeps it easy on the joints. Keen Women’s Newport H2 $99.99, Gander Mountain 6. Chaco was awarded the Seal of Acceptance by the American Podiatric Medical Association for its supportive footbed. Plus, with adjustable and fixed straps, these slip-ons are always a perfect fit. What more do you need to know? Chaco Men’s Hipthong Trek $75, Hill’s Sport Shop 7. Let your feet breathe in any activity with a thin sock that allows air flow from every angle.

Patagonia Ultra Lightweight Endurance socks $13.50, Top Notch Outfitters

8a.

7.

8b.

2.

3.

1.

5.

6.

4.

8. For rugged terrain hikes or simply to keep your feet warm at night, Smartwool has it figured out. Arch support, a flat-knit toe seam and premium fabric make these socks a no-brainer. a. Smartwool UltraComfy socks $18.95 (striped); b. Smartwool Adrenaline Hiking socks $17.95, Top Notch Outfitters

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

35

Time to Play 1. From the maker of the Swiss Army Knife comes a highly functional yet simple watch for the outdoorswoman who wants style and reliability. Wenger Swiss Military Women’s Classic Field Military Watch $89.99, Academy Sports + Outdoors 2. Dual time, dual alarm, all-day glow and a night sight glow dial makes this water resistant watch (and compass) a great bargain.

Coleman Nightsight Watch $19.99, Target

1.

2.

3. The leather-lined canvas strap provides comfort and durability while the face illuminates both date and time. Orvis Briar Haven Field Watch $69, Top Notch Outfitters 4. The distressed brown leather strap adds a little style while still maintaining a sturdy fit. It’s also water resistant up to 10 ATM. Columbia Sportswear Summiteer Watch $54.99, Academy Sports + Outdoors

3.

4.

36

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

For Your

Viewing Pleasure

1. The Wave Killer offers 100 percent polarization and UV protection and a lifetime warranty.

Can’t beat that! Costa Del Mar Wave Killer glasses $169, Top Notch Outfitters 2. The shiny gunmetal frame is slim and lightweight, which fits snuggly against your face. The polarized lenses eliminate glare and water streaking. Bollé Limit polarized axis glasses $119.99, Academy Sports + Outdoors 3. Never mind coated lenses for water streak prevention and filtered UV rays. They’re interchangeable (as well as the nosepiece), which means versatility and coolness. Oakley Lance Armstrong Livestrong glasses $205, Hill’s Sport Shop

1.

4. The dark olive gunmetal frames rest on your face comfortably with silicon nose pads while the silver polarized lenses offer 100 percent UV protection. Magellan Sportswear Sunglasses $59.99, Academy Sports + Outdoors

4.

2.

5.

3.

6.

5. High definition optics offer clarity and impact resistance, as well as extended peripheral vision. The coated lenses protect against dirt and dust while the light frame doesn’t compromise the sunglasses’ durability. Oakley Commit 8Q glasses $140, Hill’s Sport Shop 6. Composite nylon frames make for a lightweight pair of sunglasses. The tortoise shell style is especially hip. Costa Del Mar Isabela Tortoise glasses $149, Top Notch Outfitters

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

37

to your health

be prepared Reeves Easley-McPherson

B

e Prepared. Those two words have guided millions of Boy Scouts for the last 100 years and they apply to everyone as we prepare for spring and summer outdoor activities. Before heading out, be sure that your car and home have well-stocked first aid kits. These kits come

in various shapes and sizes and can be stocked with basic medical essentials such as Band-Aids, antibiotic ointment and pain relievers. Commercial kits are available at most retail stores and pharmacies, but often homemade first aid kits can save money and be customized for your family.

According to the Boy Scout Handbook, a personal first aid kit should contain: 3-by-6-inch piece of moleskin Disposable non-latex gloves

Six adhesive bandages

Scissors

Small tube of triple antibiotic ointment

Small bottle of alcohol-based hand sanitizing gel

Tube of sting relief gel

CPR breathing barrier

Two 3-by-3-inch gauze pads

Pencil and paper (not shown)

Small roll of adhesive tape

✚ All of these items can be packed in a resealable plastic bag which can easily fit in a jacket pocket or day pack.

38

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

photos by pam lary photography

A larger, family-sized first aid kit includes items in addition to those listed in the personal kit with:

Splints An elastic bandage

A space blanket

One and two inch roller bandages

✚ A family kit would also include any medications needed by family members, as well as over-the-counter pain relief or allergy relief tablets.

Several instant cold compresses

All first aid kits should be inspected regularly and out-of-date medications should be discarded.

Small cuts and scratches should immediately be washed with soap and water then treated with antibiotic ointment and covered with a band-aid. If water is not available, then alcohol-based hand sanitizing gel can be used. Cuts that become infected, are longer than two inches, or deep should be seen by a medical professional as soon as possible. Also, make sure that you and your family’s tetanus shots are up to date. If you have not had one in the last ten years, it time for a booster.

Bug bites are a common side effect of being outdoors. The best bet is to prevent the bite before it happens. Numerous bug repellant gels, sprays and wipes can

be found locally. Depending on the concentration of bug repelling chemicals and the outdoor activity, bug spray needs to be re-applied every three to eight hours. Use caution when using bug repellant on young children and be sure to wash your hands after applying. When you do get bit, commercially available sting relief gel does a good job of providing itch relief without the side effects of over-the-counter allergy Reeves Easley-McPherson medications. As with cuts, bug bites should Reeves is the Scoutmaster for be washed before using the sting relief gel.

Boy Scout Troop 86 in Amarillo.

Remember, the best first aid kit comes He earned the rank of Eagle Scout in Troop 86 in 1981 and is from education. Take a first aid and a Life Member of the National CPR class through the Red Cross or the Eagle Scout Association. Reeves American Heart Association and encourage is employed by the Panhandle your family members and co-workers to Regional Planning Commission join you. am as the Regional Emergency Communications Specialist.

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

39

to your health

Pre-Hike Prep Andrew Chaddick, CSCS

These six dynamic stretches will keep you in the game and off the injured reserve this spring so get the whole family involved, get warmed up and get active.

W

ith spring upon us, it’s time to get outside and get moving. Before you hit the pool, the field, the court, the road, or the trails, try a few dynamic stretches to boost your heart rate, increase blood flow to your muscles, raise your core temperature, and improve the function of your nervous system.

Unlike static stretching, which can actually decrease force production when done before a workout, dynamic stretching helps prepare you to move. Using a process called active elongation, you’ll not only lengthen the muscle, but also contract or use the muscle in its lengthened state which will lead to long term improvements in your flexibility.

If you go through the following checklist of exercises, you’ll be prepared both physically and mentally for your spring activity, including enhanced mobility, flexibility, and stability, not to mention an increase in speed and power output by almost 20 percent compared to static stretching.

Hand Walk Starting Position: Stand with your legs as straight as possible and your hands on the floor.

Movement: Keeping your legs as straight as possible and your belly-button drawn into your spine, walk your hands out to, or past, the pushup position until you feel your abdominals contract. Hold this position for a two-count before walking your feet up to your hands while continuing to keep your legs as straight as possible.

Spiderman Stretch Starting Position:

Get started with 4-6 repetitions of each exercise

Begin in the “up” pushup position with your hands and toes on the floor and your back flat.

Movement: Fire your right leg up, landing your foot directly outside your right hand. Make sure to keep your left leg as straight as possible.

Hold for a two-count and return to the pushup position. Alternate by bringing the left foot up and outside the left hand while keeping the right leg straight.

You Should Feel: A stretch through your hip flexors and extensors

40

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

You should feel: A stretch in your hamstrings, lower back, glutes and calves with a contraction in your abdominals and shoulders

Reverse Lunge with a Twist Starting Position: From a standing position with perfect posture, step with your right leg into a lunge.

Movement: Twist your torso over your left leg while reaching your right hand over your head and back towards your right foot. Allow your back to arch slightly and rotate freely while reaching with both hands. Hold for a twocount until firing your left leg back into the next lunge where you will reach your left hand over your right leg.

You Should Feel: A stretch through your quads, hip flexors, abdominals and low back

Forward Lunge Forearm to Instep Starting Position: Begin by taking a large step forward with your right leg and dropping into a lunge.

Movement: Place your left hand on the floor parallel with your right foot. Sinking into your hips, attempt to bring your right forearm to the instep of your right leg. After holding for a two-count, move your right hand outside of your right foot and press back through your hips, extending both legs. Pull your right toe off of the floor and press your left heel down to stretch through your hamstrings and calves.

Hold this position for a two-count. Step up with your left leg and alternate sides by lunging forward with the left leg, placing your left forearm to the instep of your left leg.

You Should Feel: A stretch through your hip flexors, hip extensors, glutes, lower back and hamstrings

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

41

Drop Lunge Starting Position: Stand with your feet hip width apart.

Movement: Step back and around with your right leg as if your left foot is on the top corner of a rectangle and you’re putting your right foot on the opposite corner. Your left foot should be approximately two feet from the outside of your right foot. Keeping most of your weight over your right leg, your chest up, and your belly button in, drop into a deep squat while keeping your hips facing forward. Hold for a two-count before firing back up to the starting position and repeating with the opposite leg.

You Should Feel: A stretch in your hips, glutes and IT bands

Sumo Squat to Stand Starting Position: Stand with your legs straight and hip width apart with your hands under your toes.

Movement: Keeping your arms straight and inside your knees, drop your hips down in between your feet. Lift your chest and head as high as possible and press your knees out with your elbows then tuck your chin and straighten your legs back to the starting position.

You Should Feel: A stretch in your hamstrings, glutes, lower back and inner thigh with a contraction in your quads

The Next Level Ready to take your warmup and cooldown to the next level? Invest in a foam roller – a 3’ long, 6” round piece of condensed foam that can work wonders for your muscles. Through a process of myofascial release, foam rolling your quads, hamstrings, hips, lower back, and upper back will help dissipate adhesions in your muscles, improve circulation and increase mobility.

While it may be a little painful at first, it will get considerably more comfortable with increased use. Foam rolling is a great measuring tool for the quality of your muscle and connective tissue – the better it feels, the higher the quality of your tissue. am

Lateral Lunge Starting Position: Begin with perfect posture, feet hip width apart with good balance.

Movement: Step to the side with your right leg, keeping both feet facing straight ahead. Squat by sitting down and back onto your right leg while keeping your left leg completely straight, both feet flat. Be sure to keep your chest up as you squat as low as possible while keeping your heels on the ground and your weight balanced over your right leg. After a two-count stretch, drive off your right leg and return to the starting position. Alternate legs by stepping to the side with your left leg.

Photos by Donna Alexander

You Should Feel: A stretch through your groin, inner thighs and hamstrings

42

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

Andrew Chaddick, CSCS

Andrew is the Executive Director of the Downtown Athletic Club. He is dedicated to providing a remarkable training experience for every client.

Andrew played college basketball and went on to work as a strength and conditioning coach.

This article is not intended to provide medical advice and does not direct that you undertake any specific fitness or exercise regime. Consult a physician before undertaking any activity described in this article

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

43

inside outside

Magellan Outdoors CoolDome Tent, Academy Sports + Outdoors $99.99 Need some space? This six-man tent is a quick pitch (thanks to color-coded poles) with ample space for bags, packs, and gear. With zippered sectionals for breathability, the CoolDome keeps air flowing and temperatures low, which is ideal for warm summer nights.

Home Away from Home C

amping may be considered “roughing it,” but with so many creature comforts available today, your home away from home doesn’t have to be so primitive. You can easily spend a night under the stars in a fully-furnished tent, complete with everything you need for a restful night’s sleep.

Photos by Pam Lary Photography

44

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

Sanuk Sandals, Gander Mountain $55 Not into being barefoot? No worries. Sanuk Sandals (which are not shoes, thank you very much) provide ultimate comfort for your worn tootsies when walking from tent to tree and back again.

Eureka! Wild Basin Mummy Bag, Gander Mountain $99.99 Replace your flannel, nylon rectangle (that ratty sleeping bag from grade school) with a zero-degree mummy bag from Eureka! In either regular length or long, this less-than-four-pound bag fits like a glove, offering maximum warmth and breathability at the same time. It even has a secret pocket for your MP3 player or a little midnight snack.

Coleman Glow Sticks, Target $1.99/each In the event of dead batteries and shattered light bulbs, pack a few glow sticks with your gear. These non-toxic IlumiSticks stay lit for nearly 12 hours.

Timber Creek Tent Fan, Academy Sports + Outdoors $19.99 Circulate cool air throughout an enclosed space with a light and durable fan that hangs overhead attached by a carabiner. The fan requires four D batteries and can run up to 48 hours. When the weather is on the warmer side, you’ll be glad you have it.

Fish Pond Shooting Star Chest/Backpack, Riverfields Outfitters $189 This lightweight, waterproof detachable chest/backpack is the ultimate fisherman’s companion. Five storage compartments, a place for your hydration system, padded straps and unmatched durability - it’s a pack with versatility and style. (Note: You don’t even have to fish to enjoy its perks.)

Thermarest Prolite Self-Inflating Mattress, Academy Sports + Outdoors $99.99 Add a little padding to those achy muscles at night with a mini-mattress under your sleeping bag. Bottom grips and a textured surface ensure you won’t slide around during the night, and since it’s so light, you won’t even notice it in your pack.

Thermarest Compressible Pillow, Gander Mountain, $19.99, Embark Quad Chair, Target $9.99 Create a cozy spot in the tent to eat your dinner, do a little journal writing or simply to rest your backside after a long day outside. The compressible pillow makes for easy travel while the chair folds up in seconds.

Timber Creek Rechargeable LED Lantern, Academy Sports + Outdoors $29.99 Illuminate your space each night with an easy turn-on-turn-off lantern that requires no matches or lighters. The built-in rechargeable battery provides both high and low settings, as well as a nightlight.

Nalgene Water Container, Target $9.99 Proper hydration is vital to any outdoorsman, and with a virtually indestructible container from Nalgene, you’re not likely to puncture or crack your water source.

Thermos Stainless Steel Vacuum Bottle, Target $19.99 Lukewarm coffee is just wrong.

Keep your hot drinks hot (for 12 hours) and your cold drinks cold (for 24 hours) with an unbreakable, insulated container.

Life+Gear flashlight, Target $19.99 A small, easy-grip flashlight is a camping necessity, especially for middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks. This miniature LED light can be seen for over a mile, a beneficial safety feature if you’re camping in a primitive area.

Campsuds, Hill’s Sport Shop $4.99 Spend a few days outside and – trust us – you’re gonna smell like it. A little goes a long way with this biodegradable cleanser, and it’s not just for your body either. Its mild formula works well for nearly everything, from your smelly socks to your dinner dishes (though we don’t recommend washing them together).

Coleman Rotating LED Headlamp, Target $19.99 Need a hands-free light? Consider Coleman. This LED light lasts for more than 25 hours on low (six hours on high) and offers a snug fit around everyone’s head. It’s handy for latenight tent pitching or early risers who want to get started on breakfast before dawn.

A Pocket Naturalist Guide: Texas Butterflies & Moths, Texas Trees & Wildflowers, Texas Wildlife $5.95/each; Leather Medival Journal, Barnes & Noble Booksellers $28 Spend the afternoon viewing local wildlife and record your findings in this leather journal. Sketch birds and butterflies on the lined (or unlined) pages or simply jot down how you spent your day.

The Pocket First Aid Field Guide, Riverfields Outfitters $7.95 In addition to a First Aid Kit (see page 38), it’s good to have a field guide in case of bigger emergencies like bites and stings. Small and compact, slip it into a waterproof baggie and carry it with you on any adventure.

Eddie Bauer Rain Poncho, Target $15.49 Stuff an oversized poncho in your bag for those fast-moving afternoon downpours. As an added bonus, this easily packable slicker covers you and your backpack.

Mountainsmith Pyrite Trekking Poles, Academy Sports + Outdoors $39.99/each Scale any mountainside or steep terrain with aluminum trekking poles that adjust to your height. They’re light, collapsible and shock absorbing with rubber molded grips.

NOAA Radio and Lantern, Academy Sports + Outdoors $24.99 Forecasts notwithstanding, weather is undoubtedly unpredictable. You may have what you need for rain, wind and varying temperatures, but you’ll need to know when stronger storms are coming. This duo radio and flashlight from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration will keep you in the know.

Bag of GORP Never heard of GORP? It stands for Good ‘Ole Raisins and Peanuts and it’s one of the best treats you can eat on the trail (or as a late-night snack). The standard recipe is one cup each of raisins, salted dry-roasted peanuts and candy-coated chocolates, but you can vary the ingredients according to your own taste. Whatever your preference, the salty-sweet mixture keeps your taste buds happy while the protein and fiber provides much-needed energy.

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

45

inside outside

Bug Off! N

othing can ruin an afternoon picnic like a swarm of thirsty mosquitoes. Whether you’re trekking for a week in the woods or just trying to enjoy the afternoon in your own backyard, there’s a repellent for that. It only takes a few squirts of your best defense to keep those pesky pests at bay.

3M Ultrathon Insect Repellent 12 hour Lotion • Contains 34.34% deet • Provides up to 12 hours protection with a thick lather • Splash and sweat resistant

Repel Lemon Eucalyptus • Plant-based repellant with a light citrus-mint scent • Effective for up to six hours • Won’t damage plastics or synthetics

Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent • Contains 20% picaridin • Protects for up to eight hours • Safe for use on children

Cutter Advanced • Deet-free with 7% picaridin • While advertised as fragrance free, there is a slight chemical scent • Protects for up to four hours

46

Lather Happy I

t may be fun to play in the sun but not if your parting gift is a burn – or worse, permanent skin damage. Applying sunscreen takes only seconds, plus it’s worth investing in the right kind for your skin type and activity level. Avoid the lobster look-alike contest this year by making sunscreen part of your daily routine.

No-Ad Sunblock Lotion SPF 60 • Low price point makes for a great value • Waterproof/sweatproof • Contains Aloe Vera, Cocoa Butter and Vitamin E

Banana Boat Sport Performance Active Dry Protect Sunblock Lotion SPF 30 • Non-greasy • Water and sweat resistant • Light sunblock scent

photos by pam lary photography

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer DryTouch Sunblock SPF 55 • Non-greasy, weightless feel • Absorbs quickly with a matte finish • Gentle enough for everyday use

Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen Sensitive SPF 30 • Chemical and fragrance free • Ideal for sensitive skin

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

47

Palo Duro Canyon State Park Canyon, TX

48

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

photo by Candace West

Cover

Story

go outside: Your Guide to Playing in the Panhandle

By Jennie Treadway-Miller and Andrea Jones

S

pring is here and that means it’s time to get back outside. For the outdoor adventure seeker, it means planning a one-day hike, a weekend excursion or a weeklong trek in the wilderness. It means throwing your bike on a roof rack and driving to the nearest trail or taking your kids on a leisurely drive to check out the wildlife. Whatever your interest, we’ll tell you what the Panhandle has to cure your cabin fever.

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

49

h

he t it ail! tr

map illustration by greg brady

13

Map Key 1 Palo Duro Canyon State Park 2 Copper Breaks State Park 3 McClellan Creek National Grasslands Recreation Area 7

4 Caprock Canyons State Park and Trailway

11

5 Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge

3

8

6

6 Ceta Canyon Camp and Retreat Center

1

7 Lake Meredith National Recreational Area

10

8 Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge

4 5

9 Lubbock Lake Landmark 2

10 Lake Mackenzie 11 Wildcat Bluff Nature Center 12 Buffalo Springs Reservoir

9 12

1. Palo Duro Canyon State Park 11450 Park Rd. 5 Canyon, TX 79015 806.488.2227

It’s only fitting to start here. Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of Texas, its size gives the Panhandle its claim to housing the second largest canyon in North America (after the Grand Canyon, naturally). Officially opened on July 4, 1934, the Palo Duro Canyon

State Park is located 12 miles east of Canyon and maintained by the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. It spans more than 20,000 acres of rugged terrain, stretching 800-feet deep into the earth and stretching 120 miles long.

The canyon formations were carved out by the Prairie Dog Town Fork of the Red River centuries ago, revealing the archeological history of the area and providing a magnificent view from the rim. Inside the park are 25 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, as well as tent campsites, picnic areas and restrooms. Furnished cabins are also available to rent for those who don’t necessarily want

13 Pitcher Pump Bike ‘N Hike Ranch to sleep outside. On the southern end of the park is a large horse trailer parking area with a corral and watering station for equestrian camping. (Horses can be rented for day use at the Old West Stables inside the park.) The Palo Duro Canyon is a haven for multitudes of wildlife, like white tail and mule deer, wild turkey, coyotes, rabbits and rattlesnakes. By summer, much of the vegetation will be in full bloom. Upon driving along the entrance rim of the canyon, look for the longhorn steers, part of the official Texas State Longhorn Herd.

Season: Park open seven days a week year-round.

photos courtesy of texas parks and wildlife

Sunset in Palo Duro Canyon State Park

50

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

Cover

Story

photo by earl nottingham

Visitors can enjoy a rich mixture of Panhandle history and geological interest.

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

51

2. Copper Breaks State Park 777 Park Rd. 62 Quanah, TX 79525 940.839.4331

Located 13 miles south of Quanah (or 11 miles north of Crowell on TX 6), the southern boundary of the park is bordered by the Pease River, a tributary of the Red River.

Total acreage reaches nearly 1900 with 70 acres in lakes and ponds. There are 9½ miles of equestrian trails and areas for equestrian campers on the north side of the park. There is a separate trail for bikers and backpackers, as well as tent campsites and picnic areas. Season: open year round.

photos courtesy of texas parks and wildlife

Get a waterfront view from atop a cliff at Copper Breaks State Park.

3. McClellan Creek National Grasslands Recreation Area 12 miles east of Groom, off I-40 580.497.2143

The area has nearly 1,500 acres of recreation space, managed by the USDA Forest Service under the Cibola National Forest, and offers 40 campsites (17 with hookups), as well as fishing and wildlife-viewing opportunities at Lake McClellan when it’s full. (Call ahead in case the area is suffering from a drought.) Much of the grasslands are undeveloped, though there are a number of smaller hiking trails to enjoy.

Season: open year round.

52

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

Cover

Story

photo by karen lanier

photo courtesy of texas parks and wildlife

An aerial view of Caprock Canyons shows off the unique terrain of the Texas Panhandle.

4. Caprock Canyons State Park and Trailway

Campers enjoy the morning after a night in Caprock Canyons.

photo by rob mccorkle

PO Box 204 Quitaque, TX 79255 806.455.1492

Opened in 1982, the park is located three miles north of Quitaque, just 100 miles southeast of Amarillo. Bordered on the north by TX 256, the park entrance is on the south side and most accessible by traveling north through Quitaque on RR 1065. Lake Theo, 120 acres and 30-ft deep (when full), is open for no-wake boating, fishing and swimming. The entire park is a little more than 15,000 acres, including a 64-mile converted Rail-to-Trail area, and gets its name from the rugged, southern high plains landscape. Caprock Canyon boasts 13 trails, more than 90 miles of hiking, biking and riding trails, some with steep climbs and descents, which is ideal for the more experienced adventure seeker. There are several tent camping areas with grills and picnic tables (along with a few primitive sites), as well as an area for horses in the Northeast section of the park. Expect to see a variety of wildlife, like mule deer, coyotes, more than a hundred species of birds and the rare Golden Eagle. The official Texas State Bison Herd – the largest herd of buffalo in the state park system – also calls the canyons home. The park includes a boat ramp, fishing pier, a swimming beach and seasonal concessions. Season camping/hiking: open year round. april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

53

photos courtesy of U.S. fish and wildlife service

Enjoy optimal wildlife viewing at Muleshoe.

5. Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge PO Box 549 Muleshoe, TX 79347 806.946.3341

As the oldest national wildlife refuge in Texas, it’s a trip worth taking.

Muleshoe NWR was established in 1935 as a wintering area for migratory waterfowl and cranes. Roughly 320 species of birds have been identified in the refuge and can be viewed in larger numbers in the spring and fall seasons. Muleshoe NWR has nearly 6,000 acres of land protected by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service with a camping area near the refuge headquarters. Muleshoe has three sink-type lakes with no outlets that tend to run lower in seasons of drought, so it’s best to call ahead to check water levels if you’re interested in wildlife viewing. (The exception is Upper Paul’s Lake, which is spring fed.) In addition to primitive camping, available on site are fire pits, grills, picnic tables and restrooms, as well as a one-mile nature trail. From Muleshoe, take TX 214 south 20 miles, then west 2¼ miles on Caliche Road to the headquarters. Season: open year round.

6. Ceta Canyon 37201 FM 1721 Happy, TX 79042 806.488.2268

Just 30 minutes southeast of Canyon, Texas, Ceta Canyon is 316 acres of land purchased by the Northwest Texas United Methodist Conference in 1925 for the purpose of establishing a camp. And while the facility is an ideal set-up for retreats, reunions and outdoor education programs, it’s also open to the public for camping, hiking, catch-and-release fishing, and access to sporting activities, like basketball, volleyball and challenge courses. Camping season: June-July, retreats available year round.

54

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

Story

photos courtesy of the national park service

Cover

When water levels are up, Lake Meredith is a haven for fishers and boaters.

7. Lake Meredith National Recreational Area 419 E. Broadway Fritch, TX 79036 806.857.3151

photo courtesy of ceta canyon

This 10,000 acre reservoir was created to supply water to 11 surrounding cities and is cradled by 200-foot canyons carved out by the Canadian River. Ultimately, Lake Meredith provides the Texas Panhandle with a spacious place for boating, fishing, camping and hunting. When not in a drought, the lake is a boating hotspot, whether for a leisurely afternoon spent fishing or for more intense activities like waterskiing and swimming. Surrounding the reservoir are a variety of camping areas, some with an overlook, some along the shoreline, and some in wooded areas. Reservations aren’t required and campers are invited to stay up to 14 days in a 30-day period. When the water levels are up, Lake Meredith is an ideal place to fish for bass, crappie, and trout. You’ll find horseback riding and hiking at Plum Creek and McBride Canyon, located on the southwest and southeast ends of the lake respectively. Off-Highway Vehicles can be driven in the all-terrain areas of Blue Creek Bridge and Rosita Flats, where you’ll find additional picnic areas and a primitive camping spot. Season: open year round.

8. Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge 3 miles south of Umbarger on FM 168 806.499.3382

On US 60 between Hereford and Canyon, just 30 miles southeast of Amarillo, is an area protected by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service that sits in what’s called the Central Flyway. This is a route traveled by migratory birds, like loons, geese, cranes, eagles and owls, and makes for an ideal wildlife viewing area. Nature trails are open for the quieter observer, especially those with cameras.

Expect to see other wildlife as well, native animals like deer, prairie dogs, coyotes and turkeys.

While it’s okay to gather feathers or other gems animals leave behind, resist the temptation to interact with the animals. Following NWR rules is mandatory for your safety as well as the wildlife.

Pack a lunch and plan to spend a peaceful time in the refuge. Season: Open year round. april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

55

play nice

Leave No Trace, Inc. is a government-supported, non-profit educational agency that promotes exactly what the name implies: leave no trace of where you’ve been when enjoying the great outdoors.

The organization teaches outdoor skills and ethics for those who want to not only get the most out of their adventure, but who also want to be mindful of the impact they’ll have on the environment. If you’re planning a weekend jaunt in the woods or a weeklong camp in the grasslands, take note so you can leave the area just as you found it.

Plan Ahead. Before you set out on any excursion, do your research.

Check the weather, know what facilities are available at any given park, and make a meal plan. Having proper equipment, knowing whether or not there are dumping stations at a campground, and having all the food you need stored in proper containers can directly affect your outdoor experience and your impact on the area.

9. Lubbock Lake Landmark 2401 Landmark Drive Lubbock, TX 79415 806.742.1116

Located on the northwest edge of Lubbock near the intersection of Loop 289 and US 84, this 336-acre park is a dayuse park only with two hiking trails (one that is handicapped accessible) and three picnic areas. The Landmark is an archaeological and natural preserve maintained by the Museum of Texas Tech University. The Nash Interpretive Center has an auditorium, a children’s education center and gift shop. The park is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Guided tours are available.

Season: open year round.

Minimize Waste. Whether it’s a one-day hike or two weeks of

backpacking, plan your meals with the mindset of having minimal waste.

Pack foods in reusable containers and only take food you know you’ll eat.

Bring storage bags specifically for waste, like leftover food bits and other disposable materials, which can be thrown away when you encounter a garbage bin or dumping station. It is not okay to toss your uneaten sandwich crusts into the woods. It is essential that wildlife not become habituated to scraps as a food source. Whatever you pack in, pack it out.

Stay on Track.

When hiking or taking a nature walk, always stay on the designated path. Rather than walking two or three abreast, walk single file, being conscience of new plant growth and overhanging tree branches. Do not create your own shortcuts, thereby trampling vegetation or disturbing wildlife. Go the extra mile to pick up any trash you find and pack it away for disposal in designated containers.

Practice Pit Stop Etiquette.

If restroom facilities aren’t available, then you will undoubtedly need a place to go. Urine generally doesn’t have a big impact on vegetation or soil (though it would be wise to use a variety of areas around the campsite rather than one spot to lessen the severity of the scent). If you have to really go, then disposing of feces properly is essential. Create an in-ground potty spot by digging an 8-inch hole in the ground at least 200 feet away from water, trails and camps.

Bury your, eh, stuff, and disguise it with natural materials. If you didn’t use biodegradable toilet paper, then guess what: pack it out via storage bag.

Generally speaking, you don’t need soap to wash your campfire pots. Boiling hot water over a fire and rinsing it thoroughly is sufficient. If you insist on using soap (either for yourself or your pots), spend a few extra dollars on biodegradable soap. While this kind of soap is enviro-friendly, be kind to fish and other wildlife by washing at least 200 feet away from bodies of water.

No Soap Necessary.

10. Lake Mackenzie

Fire Safe.

Water enthusiasts can enjoy fishing, skiing, tubing, and canoeing when levels are up, which is a friendly reminder to call ahead before you go. (The lake is stocked by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.) If water levels are low, take advantage of nearly 35 miles of ATV trails or simply enjoy an afternoon of wildlife viewing along the designated nature trails. The area is home to mule deer, wild turkeys, pheasants, bald eagles, bobcats, and more, as well enjoying various rock formations. Season: open year round. Marina is open from March through October, weekends only.

It is of the upmost importance, particularly in the dry Panhandle area, to play by all the fire safety rules. Choose smaller deadwood, pieces that have already been downed and have begun to dry out. Resist the urge to chop what you perceive to be dead branches off a live tree. Instead, scour the surrounding area for dead pieces the size of your arm or smaller, leaving the larger trunks alone. Burn only what you really need so the wood breaks down to a fine ash. Scatter unused wood back where you found it. If there’s a designated fire pit area, build your fire where indicated. If you’re camping in the backcountry, consider using a lightweight gas stove in lieu of a fire for cooking or a portable fire pan for warmth.

For more information about outdoor etiquette or Leave No Trace, Inc., log on to amarillomagonline.com 56

Bring your ATV to Lake Mackenzie for a little off-road fun.

photo courtesy of texas parks and wildlife

Survey and Take Notes.

When you arrive at a campsite, whether it’s a high-impact campground or in a remote area, survey the site so you can leave it in the same – or better – condition that you found it. Pitch your tent on durable ground where the vegetation is already gone (rock outcrops or designated dirt pads) or where the groundcover easily recovers (like grassy meadows). Be mindful not to crush flimsy plants and flowers with your gear.

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

141 North MacKenzie Road Silverton, TX 79257 806.633.4318

photos courtesy of wildcat bluff nature center

Cover

Story

For a no-travel day outside, take the kids to Wildcat Bluff for a nature walk.

11. Wildcat Bluff Nature Center 2301 North Soncy Road Amarillo, TX 79159 806.352.6007

12. Buffalo Springs Reservoir 9999 High Meadow Road Lubbock, TX 79404 806.747.3353

Five miles southeast of Lubbock, on the North Fork of the Double Mountain Fork of the Brazos River is Buffalo Springs Lake, maintained by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. It’s a place for bass, catfish and crappie fishing, as well as tent camping and an area with hook-ups. The Llano Estacado Audubon Society maintains a 1.7 mile nature trail that decends 155 feet into a canyon, along with six off-road biking trails in the surrounding area. As an added bonus, there’s a ninehole, three-part golf course. Season: open year round.

Experience more watersport activities just two hours south of Amarillo.

photos courtesy of texas parks and wildlife

For leisurely day hikes, consider the 600-plus acres of grasslands on the western outskirts of Amarillo. There are four trails at Wildcat Bluff (all less than one mile, one of which is handicapped-accessible) that weave around wildflowers, cottonwood trees and an overlook that is part of the historic Santa Fe Trail. Also on site is a nature center with native wildlife and reptiles available for viewing as part of their conservation education program, and the staff hosts night hikes once a month. In keeping with conservation, dogs and bikes are not allowed.

Season: open year round.

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

57

Cover

Story

13. Pitcher Pump Hike and Bike Ranch

Gate entrance at West 9th and Helium Rd. Amarillo, TX 79124 806.356.0096 While only open three days a week, Pitcher Pump is a combined 20 miles of great biking, hiking and trail running on the western outskirts of the city limits. The area is managed by the Girl Scouts High Plains Council, so the $5.00 per person/per use fee goes to a good cause. The ranch is open from daylight to dark on Tuesdays and Thursdays and from 1 p.m. to dark on Sundays. Take note that Pitcher Pump is closed to the public during June and July when the scouts are full swing in their resident summer camp. am Note: Always call ahead before visiting any park so you are up to date on changes in park regulations, fees, hours and restrictions.

photos by shannon richardson

Enjoy 20 miles of great biking and hiking on the outskirts of Amarillo at Pitcher Pump.

58

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

The McKinney family knows how to play. This family of five bikes, runs and enjoys the great outdoors. To read about how they play in the Panhandle, log on to amarillomagonline.com.

special feature

f rom the W a r v i e w

e talked with author and speaker Ron Hall about his second book, What Difference Do it Make?, the follow-up to Same Kind of Different as Me, co-written with Denver Moore. Ron shares how his father taught him to love the unloveable, how he credits his late-wife, Deborah, for changing the course of his life and how dayto-day life is with Denver now.

Jennie Treadway-Miller: You’re coming to Amarillo on April 8th to the Amarillo Civic Center. Is Denver coming too?

Ron Hall:

No, his health has taken a nose dive. He has diabetes now and blood clots in his legs, so he can’t ride on planes or in a car for longer than 30 minutes. But he’s doing okay. We just finished breakfast together and now I’m going to see my grandkids.

JTM: Essentially, What Difference Do it Make? is a collection of stories – it’s a recap of how Same Kind of Different as Me was born, a closer look into your relationship with your father, and chapters of Denver’s advice to readers on how to make a difference in a person’s life. Tell me how this latest book came to be.

RH: I’m not really an author. I’m a storyteller but I became an author by default. I had some good stories to tell and I was encouraged to write them down. Of course, it was Denver’s idea to write our story down, and at the time he couldn’t read or write, so I knew I’d be the one doing the writing. SKoDaM has been on the NYT Bestseller list for 102 weeks consecutively, but it’s a book that was turned down several times. Still we haven’t spent money advertising. It’s a word of mouth phenomenon.

The second book came about because we were getting so many readers sending their stories. They were moved to action. We literally had hundreds of stories that were inspired by the first book, so we decided we’d tell a story of their stories. I realized there wasn’t cohesion with all the stories, so we picked out 10 or 15 of the stories and put more in there about Denver and more about me and we started writing from that angle. Then last January my father died and I spent some time reflecting on his life and my life as his son. I just had to get through the process because I resented him for most of his life and I had to learn how to love him. I talked to [co-author] Lynn Vincent, who puts everything in Denver’s voice, and she wanted to include some of the writing about my dad. After that, it just came alive and started to make more sense.

60

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

JTM: Let’s talk about your father. You said you resented him most of your life and how you had to learn to love him.

How did it feel that last week with him, sitting on his porch, the man who lived his life as an alcoholic and there you shared a drink with him. How did you get there with him?

Even with [Debbie’s] death, I was so angry. But looking back, hundreds of thousands of people have been impacted by this story.

Now the rearview mirror is clear.

RH: Denver helped me get there.

photo courtesy of ron hall

About 10 years ago, one of the first Christmases he spent with us, Deborah had prepared this wonderful meal after having nine months of chemotherapy and just two weeks after surgery. She was fighting for her life and had just made this meal for us. My dad made this horrible remark about cancer not being a big deal. Our dinner broke up and we all left mad. Denver said, “Mr. Ron, we need to bless that man. He didn’t mean anything.

You can’t love him for who you want him to be. You have to love him for who he is. If it weren’t for him, there wouldn’t be you. And if it weren’t for you, there wouldn’t be me and Miss Debbie. He gave you life, so you need to honor him even if you don’t like him.”

So I began to look at my dad in a different way. I softened towards him in the last two years while I took care of him. Since he wasn’t coming in my direction, I figured I had to go in his. That day on the patio at the ranch sharing a bottle of wine and smoking cigars, well that was the first time in my life that I liked him, that I found him funny. I just had to love him on his terms. They’re hard lessons and it all ended well, and that last day sitting on the porch with my father was one of the highlights of my life.

JTM: What is the difference between “helping” the homeless and “blessing” the homeless?

RH: He pointed out many times that the homeless issue isn’t a donkey-elephant problem. It’s a heart problem. The government can’t love. It’s the church’s responsibility to love.

If you take one homeless person into a church and meet all of that one person’s needs, that person will be transformed and will go back into society as a reformed person. A church usually has enough members with the skills needed to help one person. That’s the only way we’re going to make a dent.

JTM: One of my favorite flashback pieces was the conversation between you and your wife, when she told you that God had laid it on her heart for you to reach out to Denver and you responded by saying you weren’t at that meeting where she heard Him speak. That attitude Ron Hall and Denver Moore resonated with me because we’re RH: That was really Denver’s idea. He was a all so full of excuses. What do you tell the poor man who was wise and by his wisdom person who is “waiting to feel led?” our city would be changed. He never ceases to amaze me… You know, I always thought I RH: I tell that person - God bless you. Do helped the homeless by giving them a dollar what you feel led to do. If it’s nothing, then do or serving them soup, but Denver always nothing. But you will have a defining moment said that homeless people are quite capable in your life at some point when you’ll either of feeding themselves. What I was really have to answer the call or not, no matter what doing was making myself feel better about it is. Working with the homeless certainly me. Those were blessings, but to really help isn’t for everyone, and you’re not going to do them you have to stick with them until there’s them any good if you go with a bad attitude. a real change. That was Debbie’s idea, too.

There are many people doing good things for Denver will tell you that the government all kinds of causes and I don’t want anyone to programs kept him alive all those years, but think I’m judging them. the government doesn’t love. And apart from love, no one can really change.

JTM: One of Denver’s mantras seems to be “leave the judging up to God.” Why do JTM: Denver said homeless people need you think that’s so difficult for us to do, even people, so maybe there’s a place for both? taking religion out of it? What’s our problem anyway? april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

61

special feature RH: Denver says we all want people to be like us and we can’t accept the fact that God created us individuals. He says, “Everyone has a fig leaf somewhere.” We’re all hiding something.

JTM: My favorite reader story was Carina’s, the mom of four boys who had to have life-threatening brain surgery. The last line of her story was, “Sometimes you can only understand why things happen when you see them in the rearview mirror.” What are some things that have happened in your life that didn’t make any sense until you were on the other side of them?

RH: Of course, Debbie’s death made no sense.

The affair that I had made no sense. But I can see it now. One of the last conversations we had was when she told me that [the affair] made our marriage better. She said, “Ron, it was a good thing. Look what God did with that.” It turned our marriage around, it gave us a story for Denver. Even with her death, I was so angry. But looking back, hundreds of thousands of people have been impacted by this story. Now the rearview mirror is clear. I was sitting at Starbucks a few days ago and a doctor walked in and recognized me. He said, “After reading your book a year ago, I decided I was going to do something for the homeless.

My partners and I set up a free clinic in Dallas and we did that because of your book.” That’s just one of so many stories I hear all the time.

Deborah’s dream was real and God had an even bigger plan than we knew.

JTM: Are you still mad at God? RH: (laughing) No, I think He’s pretty cool now. He certainly got my attention. Listen – that’s what relationships are all about and that’s how you experience forgiveness. He knew I was mad and He let me rant and rage for a while, and then things came clear.

JTM: In Chapter 16, you explain the domino effect that occurred from Deborah planting the seed of a friendship between you and

Denver to a saved marriage in Washington, which is just one example of how your story impacted the lives of strangers. If Deborah was still here, if she was on the phone with us, how would she respond to you giving her all the credit?

I began to look at my dad in a different way. I softened towards him in the last two years while I took care of him. Since he wasn’t coming in my direction, I figured I had to go in his.

RH: Her final words to me were, “Don’t give up on Denver. God is going to bless your friendship.

And don’t name anything after me.” So she’s probably up in heaven pointing her finger at me saying, “This is not about me. It’s about God.” In my mind, it’s her story. I’ve had a hard time starting over apart from her and starting over with anyone because she’s still very much with me.

JTM: In the quieter moments between you and Denver, what are some of the things you talk about? What do you spend your free time doing together?

RH: We laugh a lot. You know, Denver is incapable of having a conversation with anyone but me because he’s a true spiritual being. He doesn’t know many current events and he doesn’t really care about sports or anything, but he sits down and listens when I read the paper sometimes. None of those things really mean anything to him. He’s just a person who really listens. But we laugh a lot, we’ll go get coffee. Of course, we sign a lot of books. We sit at our kitchen table doing that almost everyday. He paints and we’ll go to the studio. We just enjoy each other and laugh.

He’s always saying, “We’re just two nobodies who’s loved by a real Somebody.”

JTM: There’s a movie in the works for Same Kind of Different as Me. How involved in that process are you?

RH: I’ll be in Los Angeles next week to meet with producers. Samuel L. Jackson will play Denver and we have to finish up casting.

JTM: Is that a little weird? Did you ever think this was in your future?

RH: When I was writing the book, some nights I’d write all night long wondering if anyone other than my family would read it. Every once in a while I’d allow myself to dream about it being on the bestseller list. I got turned down more than the sheets of a five-star hotel. I couldn’t get anyone to even read it. Then my dreams went away and I selfpublished 50 books just to give them to friends and family. Those big dreams went by the wayside and I thought it just wasn’t meant to be anything more. Then, in God’s miraculous way, he put me together with someone I hadn’t seen in 20 years and then I had a book deal.

But I have to say, reading the screenplay, just the arrogance in my life and the disregard of my marriage – it’s going to be painful seeing it on the big screen. It’s not something I’m proud of, but it’s my story and it’s real life and it seems to have helped a lot of people. Second to the homeless issue is how Debbie’s attitude and forgiveness of me helped so many people in their marriages. am

Ron Hall will speak at the Downtown Women’s Center Spring Luncheon on Thursday, April 8th, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Amarillo Civic Center’s Heritage Room. Individual tickets are $25 each, though attendees are welcome to help sponsor the event by purchasing a table. Autographed books may be purchased for $15 at The Uptown Shoppe at I-40 and Georgia. For more information about the Spring Luncheon, call 372.3625 or log on to amarillomagonline.com

62

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

inspire

You Should Have

Known Better Luke 24:1-9 Dr. Howie Batson

A

fter the three bodies remained motionless for some time, two men and their servants approached the cross upon which Jesus was hanging. They spoke to the centurion, showed him their official papers, and removed Jesus’ body from the cross, using huge iron pinchers and bracing themselves against the base of the cross to remove the long iron spike from Jesus’ feet. Next, they lowered the cross bar to the ground, with Jesus’ slowly stiffening body still attached.

These two members of the ruling council, who had shown some sympathy for Jesus, quickly wrapped Jesus’ body in a clean linen cloth and carried the body away. One of them, Joseph of Arimathea, had Jesus’ body brought to his own tomb – a tomb hewn out of a rocky hillside in a garden plot he owned nearby.

The women, Mary of Magdala and another Mary, watched as the men hurried in and out of the tomb, tearing long strips of cloth in which to wrap the body for burial. All was done in haste, since the Sabbath was approaching and no work could take place. The women decided that after the Sabbath had passed they would return to make sure the body was properly anointed with all the customary spices.

Now the body lay, mummy-like, on a stone shelf along the wall.

With the arriving Sabbath, there was not a moment to spare. The men levered the great stone into place over the mouth of the tomb and headed back to the city, followed at a distance by the women. Pilate placed a contingent of Roman soldiers to guard the tomb to make sure no one would tamper with the grave.

It was supposed to be a holiday, a festival, a time for the Passover Sabbath with friends and family. Some holiday. Nobody was in the mood for celebrating. Shocked. Stunned. Trying to figure out how it all went wrong, when it all went wrong. A week that started with “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord” had ended with the chant, “Crucify Him. Crucify Him.” The Sabbath passed without incident. And just before sunrise, on the first day of the week, the women gathered up their spices and slipped out of the house where they had been staying. The city gates

64

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

would open at dawn, and they hoped they could get to the tomb, add their spices, and be away before anyone came along asking questions.

As they approached the little garden outside of Jerusalem, to their great surprise, they saw that the tomb stood open. Empty. Even as they were pondering their perplexity, two men stood near them in lightningwhite garments. Just as the angels had proclaimed the glad tidings of Jesus’ nativity, so now God sent some of these celestial beings to bring the good news that He had risen from the dead.

“You should have known better,” the angels were, in essence, saying to the terrified women, as they asked, “Why are you looking for a living person in a graveyard? He is not here, but He has risen. Remember how He spoke to you while He was still in Galilee, saying that He must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and on the third day rise again?” And the women remembered His words.

It’s a gentle, angelic rebuke. “You should have known better.” Surely the disciples should have known that He who is life would never have remained imprisoned by the bonds of death. Jesus had repeatedly warned His disciples that He was going to die, but to take heart. He was going to live again. So the angels ask, “Why are you looking for the living among the dead?”

Yes, those women should have known better. And we should know better, too. Death is not the ultimate end for the resurrected Christ and those who follow him.

When they said “He is not here. He is risen!” they might as well have said, “Sleep well tonight, ladies. Your Lord is living. There is nothing at all to bring you despair.” am

Dr. Howie Batson

Dr. Batson is the pastor of the First Baptist Church of Amarillo. He also currently serves as chairman of the Board of Regents at Baylor University.

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

65

inspire

Lana Velasquez

I

grew up in Minnesota, the land of lakes and loons and lofty pines brushing the sky. The beauty of my home state is the standard by which I have always judged other places. When I learned twenty years ago that I would be moving to Amarillo, I was naturally curious about the area that would become my new home.

I was living in Dallas at the time and folks there freely expressed their disdain for Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle. “It’s freezing cold, and it always snows” was the most common objection. Now I was born in the tundra, so I could live with cold. The criticism continued, condemning the area as windy, flat and ugly. I was told Amarillo was in the middle of nowhere and close to nothing.

66

One wellmeaning friend, seeing the concern on my face, encouragingly offered, “Well, they do have beautiful sunrises and sunsets.” Sunrises and sunsets! What kind of a feature was that? I fervently hoped that was not the best that could be said about my new home.

On moving day, the drive to Amarillo confirmed my worst fears. Gradually the rolling countryside of central Texas flattened and the trees thinned until, as predicted, nothing but empty prairie extended in every direction, punctuated by an occasional

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

windmill. Tears began to fill my eyes. My soul ached. How could I bear living in this desolate place?

I got a job teaching in Fritch the first year I lived in Amarillo, and it was during the year I commuted to and from Fritch that I discovered the beauty of the Panhandle of Texas. The drive took almost an hour. I would leave home in early morning darkness and watch the sun come up each day.

The Texas stars at night, big and bright gradually gave way to the luminous glow appearing on the eastern horizon. Long fingers of purple and pink reached slowly over the edge of the sky and gently touched the sleeping prairie. Vibrant shades of orange nudged the waking plains from their slumber.

The land did not seem so flat anymore. The rising sun revealed craggy ridges and valleys, and the stark contrast of light and shadow brought drama to the rough terrain. The

“I have learned that the hand of God truly illumines every place if we will just open our eyes to see it.” bold and bawdy colors brought the promise of another spectacular day and reflected the beauty of this wild land and the power of nature that transcends man’s plans and purposes.

My friend in Dallas was right. The spectacular sunrises and sunsets lavished the land with great beauty. Day after day I felt such thankfulness as my soul feasted on the breathtaking sight of the Panhandle prairie painted by the changeable sky. I began to see the plains as a place of majesty and develop a love for the great big sky that stretches wide from horizon to horizon. The words of America the Beautiful came alive to me: “O beautiful for spacious skies.”

I am a convert to the prairie and a true lover of the big sky that brings wind and weather of every sort to the multi-textured landscape it envelopes. I love as well the colorful personalities of the people who have put their imprint on this place and appreciate their persistence in making the land their own. After twenty years, I count myself among those hearty souls who have embraced this vast landscape and found their purpose and place in the far-from-plain plains of the Panhandle of Texas.

I still treasure the dark, restful blues and greens of my Minnesota childhood, but I also lay claim to my adopted Panhandle home and the sun-splashed beauty of prairie and sky. I have learned that the hand of God truly illumines every place if we will just open our eyes to see it. am

Lana Velasquez

Lana grew up in Minnesota and moved to Amarillo in 1989. She taught in Fritch for one year and then spent 19 years at Pleasant Valley Elementary in Amarillo. She was selected as Amarillo’s Elementary Teacher of the Year in 2008 and retired in May 2009.

She and her husband Ben share five children and 13 grandchildren.

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

67

inspire

Someplace Else

All the roses they followed me, thorns and all they hollowed me All the mountains they sank so far,

Yvonne Perea

I

Leaving a hole where the lifeless are What do I do with the weight of my thoughts?

Throw them on my back and get my legs to walk

was born and raised in Southern California and found comfort in the ocean and sunny days there as well as my family and friends. The surroundings were very comfortable for me. In 1996, I was on tour and made my way through Amarillo playing at the B&E coffee house where I met local singer/ songwriter Susan Gibson (writer of “Wide Open Spaces).Within the short two days I spent there, Amarillo left a sweet imprint on me, not only musically but emotionally. I’ve spent the last 12 years going back and forth, playing music and building friendships. Since then, I have been embraced by a supportive, comforting community in Amarillo that helped me find my “someplace else.”

In the song, there is a line that says, “There’s a place that will hold my grief with ground that will wake up my weary feet.” The solid ground that now roots me in Amarillo was the inspiration for that line. Another line is, “There’s so much lightning I’ve driven under, chased by the sound of rolling thunder,” was also obviously inspired by Amarillo’s impressive display of thunder and lightening. Kind of scares this California girl! am

There’s someplace else that I should be, Where not-so-lonely eyes can comfort me There’s a place that will hold my grief, With ground that will wake up my weary feet There’s someplace else…I should be There’s so much lightning I’ve driven under, Chased by the sound of rolling thunder I saw the earth crack beside my path, I’m thinkin’ I should jump with one last chance What do I do with this frame of mind?

I’ll break this glass or I’ll fall behind I should be home by now, Where a roof can hold the rain From knockin’ me down And love is a beautiful light…

Like the moon on a Red River night

Yvonne Perea

With a seamless merging of folk, blues and rock, Yvonne’s music captures her audience through her memorable melodies, relevant lyrics and soulful earthy vocals. Her latest album, “Everything Changes,” was released in December 2009. Yvonne has performed throughout the US and has opened for Ambrosia, Nickle Creek, Michelle Shocked, Jonatha Brooke and Melissa Ferrick, among others.

68

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

book nook Fiction

Nowhere to Run

By C.J. Box Putnam Adult, 2010

Joe Pickett’s temporary position as the game warden in Baggs, Wyoming, is coming to a close, but not before odd things start happening in the mountains. Camps are being looted and tents are being slashed.

Elk have been butchered and now someone’s gone missing. Just when Joe thought he’d be moving on, trouble may keep him from going anywhere… trouble that seems a little deadly.

Self-Help

Us: Transforming Ourselves and the Relationships that Matter Most

By Lisa Oz Free Press, 2010

As a follow-up companion to You: The Owner’s Manual, co-written with her husband Dr. Mehmet Oz, Lisa Oz now explores how healthy relationships are essential to our mental and physical health. She examines how we deal with pain and change and how we relate to one another, all within the scope of our varying personality types.

Fiction

The Cross Gardener

Fiction

Imperfect Birds

By Anne Lamott Riverhead, 2010

70

Elizabeth’s daughter, Rosie, is 17 years old and about as perfect as can be. Straight-A student, star athlete and pretty. However, after the family moves to a new city, little secrets begin to unfold. Suddenly Elizabeth and her husband, James, are forced to confront the realities of who Rosie really is under all all the the lies. lies. confront the realities of who Rosie really is under Elizabeth and her husband, James, are forced to to a new city, little secrets begin to unfold. Suddenly athlete and pretty. However, after the family moves about as perfect as can be. Straight-A student, star Elizabeth’s daughter, Rosie, is 17 years old and

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

By Jason F. Wright Penguin Group, 2010

Just when John Bevan found the traditional family he never experienced as an orphan, his wife and unborn child were killed tragically in a car accident. In his grief, he erects a small wooden cross at the site of their death. Then, one morning, he finds a stranger painting the cross, touching up the weathered wood with white paint. The man is the Cross Gardener, and John’s life will be forever changed for knowing him.

Humor

The Bedwetter

By Sarah Silverman Harper Collins, 2010

Sarah Silverman, co-creator and star of “The Sarah Silverman Program,” puts pencil to paper in her first book with characteristic (and sometimes filthy) comedy. Surprisingly personal, this memoir mirrors the humor you’d find on her cable show, for which she was nominated for a Primetime Emmy.

Non-Fiction

History

Travel

By Bryan Burrough Penguin Group, 2010

By Eric Peterson Fulcrum Publishing, 2010

The Big Rich: The Rise and Fall of the Greatest Texas Oil Fortunes

Vanity Fair correspondent and author Bryan Burrough dives into the lives of four Texans – H.L. Hunt, Roy Cullen, Sid Richardson and Clint Murchison – all born in the late 1800s and had a hand in the “black gold” boom post-Civil War. These businessmen have their dirty laundry aired – from the one who was a bigamist to the who made dirty deals with J. Edgar Hoover. The Big Rich is a must-have for Texas historians.

Ramble Texas: A Wanderer’s Guide to the Offbeat, Overlooked, and Outrageous

Join travel writer Eric Peterson on a journey through the Lone Star state, discovering little-known saloons, oddball museums and restaurants where you can get the best in Texan fare. Ramble Texas follows the same format as the rest of Peterson’s Ramble series, which means you can expect a quality travel guide sprinkled with his unique perspective and sense of adventure.

We’ve Got Issues: Children and Parents in the Age of Medication

By Judith Warner Penguin Group, 2010

Expect a little controversy with Judith Warner’s intense look at what she believes has gone wrong with today’s parenting – prescriptions have become the solution for everything, whether or not a medical condition exists at all. Full of research, interviews, and personal plus cultural ideas make for a thought-provoking book for parents, physicians, teachers and anyone else who impacts the life of a child.

Fiction

One Good Dog

By Susan Wilson St. Martin’s Press, 2010

After Adam March commits a foolish crime – slapping his assistant in a rash reaction – he’s sentenced to perform community service at a homeless shelter for men. There, he meets Chance, a pit bull mix who’s recovering from life in an illegal dogfighting circuit.

Thus begins a tender relationship between a man and a dog, each struggling through pain in their own way. own way. struggling through pain in their between a man and a dog, each Thus begins a tender relationship life in an illegal dogfighting circuit. a pit bull mix who’s recovering from

Non-Fiction

The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine

By Michael Lewis Norton, W.W. & Company, Inc., 2010

Author Michael Lewis lays out how the American economy fell, how consumer greed ballooned, borrowed money was easily accessible, and how the shareholder-investment executive relationship crumbled. The Big Short will certainly cause the reader to pause and think.

Sponsored by: For more selections, to check availability, or to order online, visit gohastings.com

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

71

what’s cooking?

One-Pot

Campfire Wonders T

here’s just something about cooking over an open fire that makes everything taste a little bit better. Whether it’s the wood, smoke or simply the primal method of preparing the meal, food shared via campfire is always warm and delicious, and the Girl Scouts agree. This month Natalie Stevenson, director of outdoor education, shares eight of her favorite recipes, all perfect for a Dutch oven nestled in a bed of hot coals.

From left to right, Girl Scouts Mika Leinen, Kaylana Leinen, Katelyn Griffith and Avalon Hunt

72

special thanks to the girl scouts of texas oklahoma plains, amArillo regional office

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

photos by shannon richardson

Outdoor Biscuits

Whole Roasted Chicken

Ranch Potatoes

Peach Cobbler

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

73

what’s cooking?

Whole Roasted Chicken

Outdoor Biscuits

1 whole chicken (one chicken will feed about 6 people) 1 large onion, chopped 3 apples, chopped 6-8 potatoes –scrubbed and halved Olive oil ½ cup water or chicken broth Lemon pepper, Seasoned Salt or garlic salt to taste

2¾ pounds flour (11 cups) 6 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons salt 5 heaping tablespoons baking powder 2 sticks real butter (can substitute margarine) 6 cups buttermilk

Spray a 12-inch deep Dutch oven with cooking spray or coat with some of the olive oil. Place chicken in pot and put the apples and onions inside and out of the chicken for moisture and flavor. Halve the potatoes and place around the chicken. Pour in the water or chicken broth and add a little extra olive oil. Close lid firmly and cook approximately 1½ hours in campfire coals.

Makes 40 biscuits. In oven at home, bake at 350 degrees 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Peach Cobbler

Ranch Potatoes

2 large (#303) cans sliced peaches 2 yellow cake mixes 1 can 7-UP ½ cup brown sugar 2 tablespoons sugar Cinnamon 1 stick real butter (margarine may be used)

1 packet dry Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing mix 1 potato per person, scrubbed and cut into cubes 3 tabelspoons olive oil ½ onion chopped, if desired Large gallon Ziploc bag

Grease a 12” Dutch oven with either cooking spray or oil. Pour both cake mixes and the juice from the cans of peaches in a large Ziploc bag. Pour peaches into bottom of Dutch oven. Mix with brown sugar and cinnamon as desired. Dot half of the butter on top of the peaches. Pour the 7-UP into the bag, enough to make a good batter, and mix together in the bag. Pour batter over the peaches, add remaining dots of butter. Sprinkle the top with sugar.

Cook on coals for 20 minutes and then check crust. (Don’t use very many hot coals with this recipe.)

74

Mix dry ingredients together. Add butter and stir with fork until grainy.

Add the buttermilk and stir with fork until mixed. Roll out three times on a floured surface then cut into biscuits. Put into greased, round biscuit pan and place in Dutch oven. Bake 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

Put potatoes, oil and dry Ranch Dressing mix into Ziploc bag. Toss to coat. Pour a little additional olive oil in Dutch oven and heat slightly. Add potatoes and cook until tender and brown.

Shipwreck

Camp French Toast

Walking Salad and Bugs on a Log

Baked Eggs in the Shell

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

75

what’s cooking?

Camp French Toast

Shipwreck

2 eggs per person Cinnamon 2 slices of bread per person Water

¾ lb. bacon 1 onion, diced 2 large potatoes, scrub and diced 8 eggs, beaten

Scramble eggs, add a little water and sprinkle heavily with cinnamon.

Dip bread into mixture, coating both sides. Place directly on vagabond stove top or into skillet. Cook until golden brown on both sides.

Using a Dutch oven or deep skillet, cook bacon and remove. Fry the potatoes and onions in some of the bacon grease until brown and tender.

Crumble bacon and return to skillet or Dutch oven with potatoes and onions. Add eggs and scramble together until eggs are done. Serves 8.

Baked Eggs in the Shell

Walking Salad

1 or 2 eggs per person Salt, pepper

12 apples, washed 1 cup raisins 1 cup nuts 1-16 ounce jar peanut butter

Gently tap the small end of an egg with pin or point of knife until small hole appears. (This allows steam to escape and keep the egg from bursting.)

Place egg in warm ashes (not hot coals!) small end up and bake for 10 to 20 minutes, depending on how firm you like your egg. Peel away shell and top with salt and pepper to taste.

Cut a thin slice off the top of each apple and partially core it, leaving the bottom on. Mix together the mixture of peanut butter, raisins and nuts.

Stuff the mixture into the center of the apple. Makes a great snack while waiting for dinner to cook.

Bugs on a Log Celery, cleaned and cut into sticks Peanut butter Raisins

Fill the celery sticks with peanut butter. Place 3 to 4 raisins in a line on top of the peanut butter. Makes a great pre-dinner snack.

76

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

april

FEATURED EVENT

Palo Duro Canyon Palo Duro Canyon State Park opened on July 4, 1934, and since then has been offering 120 miles of beautiful land and outdoor activities. Now that spring is here, the outdoors can be enjoyed once again. The canyon has plenty of activities for a variety of interests throughout April including: lunch with the longhorns, a family nature hike, a walk and talk about birds, the adventurous night hike, and finally the Texas outdoor family workshop to prepare you for all your camping adventures. See the nature section of the Calendar of Events for more details.

April 1st Lunch with the Longhorns April 3rd Family Nature Hike April10th Bird Walks and Talks April17th Texas Outdoor Family Workshop photo by michael schumacher, Amarillo globe-news

April 24th Night Hike

Palo Duro Canyon State Park 11450 Park Road 5 Canyon, Texas 79015 488.2227 palodurocanyon.com

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 APRIL AT AMARILLOMAGONLINE.COM

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

77

M E R L E N O R M A N .C O M

Arts & Entertainment April 1 Amarillo Little Theatre presents “Equus” 8 p.m. Amarillo Little Theatre 2019 Civic Circle, 355.9991

April 2 Amarillo Little Theatre presents “Equus” 8 p.m. Amarillo Little Theatre 2019 Civic Circle, 355.9991

April 3 Amarillo Little Theatre presents “Equus” 8 p.m. Amarillo Little Theatre 2019 Civic Circle, 355.9991 First Friday Art Walk 5-9 p.m. The Galleries at Sunset 3701 Plains Blvd., 353.5700

April 8 Amarillo Little Theatre presents “Equus” 8 p.m. Amarillo Little Theatre 2019 Civic Circle, 355.9991

April 9 Cinderella 8 p.m. Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 WTAMU Showcase 8 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Auditorium 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 Amarillo Little Theatre presents “Equus” 8 p.m. Amarillo Little Theatre 2019 Civic Circle, 355.9991

April 10 Cinderella 3 and 8 p.m. Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Amarillo Little Theatre presents “Equus” 8 p.m. Amarillo Little Theatre 2019 Civic Circle, 355.9991

April 11 Amarillo Little Theatre presents “Equus” 2:30 p.m. Amarillo Little Theatre 2019 Civic Circle, 355.9991

April 15 Third Thursday 6:30-9 p.m. Amarillo Museum of Art 2200 S. Van Buren, 371.5050

April 16 Amarillo Symphony presents “Discover Family” 8 p.m. Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

SPRING 201 0 COLOR COLLECTION Treat yourself to a complimentary Makeup Lesson.

Featured Event

Rain: A Tribute to The Beatles The Beatles became legendary for their sound, unique lyrics and ideas. Many fans can still remember their first appearance on the 1964 “Ed Sullivan Show” and recall memories of The Beatles music journey until their breakup in 1970. Relive the experience this April in Amarillo through The Beatles tribute band, Rain. The five members of the band are avid Beatles fans themselves, and have performed more than 4,000 shows together.

April 27-29 7:30 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center Auditorium 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 78

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

Slamarillo Poetry Slam 9 p.m. The 806 2812 SW 6th Avenue, 322.1806

April 17 Amarillo Symphony presents “Discover Family” 8 p.m. Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

April 18 Amarillo Youth Orchestras Spring Concert 3 p.m. GlobeNews Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

April 22 Miranda Lambert 7:30 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Coliseum 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

April 24 Bob and Tom Comedy All-Stars 7 p.m. Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

April 25 Amarillo Youth Choirs Spring Concert 3 p.m. Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts 500 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

April 26 Amarillo Little Theatre presents “Grease” 10 a.m.

Amarillo Little Theatre 2019 Civic Circle 355.9991

April 27 Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles 7:30 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Auditorium 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

April 28 Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles 7:30 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Auditorium 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 Trans-Siberian Orchestra presents “Beethovens Last Night 2010” 7:30 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Coliseum 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

April 29 Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles 7:30 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Auditorium 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

April 30 Harrington String Quartet 7:30 p.m. Westminster Presbyterian Church 2825 Wimberly Road, 376.8782

Benefits & Fundraisers April 1 YMCA Heroes Scholarship Luncheon 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Raises money for scholarship funds for children and families in the community. Amarillo YMCA South Branch 4101 Hillside Rd., 367.8047

April 6 LITE (Living Independently Through Education) Scholarship Luncheon 11:30 a.m. Catered by Stockyard Café. Silent Auction and student speakers will be featured.

Funds raised secure scholarships for students with disabilities who attend Amarillo College. Amarillo Civic Center Heritage Room 401 S. Buchanan. Contact Brenda Rossnagel at 371.5436 for more information.

April 8 Downtown Women’s Center Luncheon 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Features author Ron Hall, the coauthor of Same Kind of Different As Me and the new book, What Difference Do

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

79

It Make? Amarillo Civic Center Heritage Room 401 S. Buchanan, 372.3625

April 10 9th JDRF Promise Benefit 6:30 p.m. The annual benefit includes first rate cuisine, guest speaker Paula Hales, who has lived with diabetes for 50 years, and live and silent auctions. Amarillo Civic Center Grand Plaza 401 S. Buchanan, 356.6042 Tantalizing Tables 7 p.m. Dinner, dancing, and a celebrity newlywed game are all a part of this annual fundraiser hosted by Women’s Council for West Texas A&M University.

Amarillo Civic Center Heritage Room 401 S. Buchanan, 354.9706

April 11 Amarillo Humane Society Adopt-A-Thon 1 – 4 p.m. $5 rabies shot clinic for dogs and cats, $20 microchips for identification nationwide, miscellaneous contests, and entertainment. All animals must be on leashes or in a crate. Hosted by North Shore Animal League, who will be present with their mobile adopt unit on their Tour For Life.

Amarillo is one of two stops in Texas. Tri-State Fairgrounds First Commercial Exhibit Building 3301 E. 10th Street 373.1716

April 17 Walk MS Registration time: 8:30 a.m. Start time: 10 a.m.

National MS Society fundraiser. The money raised helps aid research and services for people with MS. McDonald Lake at John Stiff Park 4800 Bell St, 468.7500

April 23 Best of Texas Luncheon 12 p.m. Annual Junior League of Amarillo fundraiser. Tri-State Fairgrounds Rex Baxter Building 3301 E. 10th Street, 374.0802 Best of Texas Gala 8 p.m. The gala features a barbecue meal catered by the Country Barn, live and silent auctions and a dance to the music of Wayne. Funds earned will be given back to the community through grants, scholarships, community partnerships, program initiatives and volunteer training. Tri-State Fairgrounds Rex Baxter Building 3301 E. 10th Street, 374.0802

April 24 March for Babies Registration time: 9:30 a.m. Start time: 10:00 a.m. March begins at Thompson Park and ends at Wonderland, N.E. 24th and Highway 287, 374.5783 BBQ in the Boonies 2-8 p.m. Bushland Elementary PTO’s first annual cook-off. Professional and amateur divisions for brisket, ribs, & chicken. Activities include bouncers for the kids, vendor booths for shopping and live entertainment with Union Street. 24975 W. Farmers Ave., Wildorado, 336.7885 Best of Texas Touch a Truck 12-4 p.m. This free family event will include several trucks for exploration. Food and drinks will be available for purchase at the event. John Stiff Park 4800 Bell St, 374.0802

Classes & Seminars Adult Clay Class Ages 15 and up can learn slab and wheel methods. Clay is purchased at the first session. Tuesdays 9:30 a.m.–12 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.–9 p.m. Thursdays 6:30 p.m. –9 p.m. Amarillo Art Institute 3701 Plains Blvd. #117, 354.8802

80

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

Oil and Pastel – Richela Chapman Every Thursday April 1-29 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

No class April 8th. Amarillo Art Institute 3701 Plains Blvd. #117, 354.8802

April 10 Creating Hypertufa Containers for the Garden 10a.m.-12 p.m. Amarillo Botanical Gardens 1400 Streit Drive, 352.6513

April 13 Job Fair 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center North Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

April 19-22 Week of the Young Child 9 a.m., 10:15 a.m., 11 a.m. This program is divided into four days, each having a specific theme designed for children three to five years old and all Kindergarten students. Students will participate in hands-on activities, taste unique foods, hear storytellers, learn about early Panhandle history and play games. Each program lasts one hour. Register your student group or child for one day or up to all four days. Panhandle Plains Historical Museum 2503 4th Avenue, Canyon, 651.2258

April 20 Tree Care and Safety Workshop 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Amarillo College Business and Industry Center 1314 S. Polk, 378.9397

April 24 Vegetable Gardening 10a.m.-12 p.m.

Amarillo Botanical Gardens 1400 Streit Drive, 352.6513

April 27 ISA Table Top Show 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

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

April 30 Take 5 12:05-12:55 p.m. A master gardener explains the use of native plants in gardens. Panhandle Plains Historical Museum Lecture Hall 2503 4th Avenue, Canyon, 651.2244

Exhibitions On, On Buffaloes: West Texas A&M Sports Open through October 11th Panhandle Plains Historical Museum Bivins Gallery 2503 4th Avenue, Canyon, 651.2244 Always WT: A Review of the University’s First Century Open through October 24th Panhandle Plains Historical Museum Harrington Changing Gallery 2503 4th Avenue, Canyon, 651.2244 Wet Paint Open through September 5th Panhandle Plains Historical Museum Foran Gallery 2503 4th Avenue, Canyon, 651.2244

New England Family Goes West: Bugbee Clothing and Textiles Open through September 6th Panhandle Plains Historic Museum Textile Gallery 2503 4th Avenue, 651.2244 Contemporary Furniture from the Powers Family Open through May 2nd Panhandle Plains Historic Museum Furniture Gallery 2503 4th Avenue, 651.2244 From Hell Week to Homecoming: Campus Life at WT, 1953-1971 Open through August 1st Plains Historic Museum Alexander Gallery 2503 4th Avenue, 651.2244 An Uncommon Dream: The Amarillo High School Collection of 19th and 20th Century Art Open through April 11th Amarillo College Fine Arts Plaza 2201 South Washington Street, 371.5050 The Art of the Western Saddle Open through July 31st American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and Museum 2601 I-40 East, 376.5181 AC/WTAMU Student/Faculty Exhibition Open April 16th through May 2nd Amarillo Museum of Art 2200 S. Van Buren, 371.5050 New Gifts and Acquisitions Open through July 4th Amarillo Museum of Art 2200 S. Van Buren, 371.5050

Music April 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 Andy Chase Cundiff 6:30 p.m. Leal’s Mexican Restaurant 1619 S. Kentucky Street, 359.5959

April 2, 6, 13, and 27 Andy Chase Cundiff 6:30 p.m. 575 Pizzeria 2803 Civic Circle, 331.3627

April 2 Zane Lewis 10 p.m. Midnight Rodeo 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083 Tennessee Tuckness 10:30 p.m. Hoots Pub 2424 Hobbs, 358.9560

April 3 Willie Stradlin 8 p.m. Hoots Pub 2424 Hobbs, 358.9560

April 7, 14, 21 and 28 Andy Chase Cundiff 6:30 p.m. Blue Sky 4201 I-40 West, 355.8100

April 9 Josh Abbott 10 p.m. Midnight Rodeo 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083 Electric Gypsies 10:30 p.m. Hoots Pub 2424 Hobbs, 358.9560

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

81

April 10 Electric Gypsies 10:30 p.m. Hoots Pub 2424 Hobbs, 358.9560

April 16 Wade Bowen 10 p.m. Midnight Rodeo 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083 Agave Posse Band 8 p.m. Golden Light Cantina 2908 W. 6th, 374.9237 Jonathan Tyler & the Northern Lights 10:30 p.m. Hoots Pub 2424 Hobbs, 358.9560

April 17 The Flying Elbows 10:30 p.m. Hoots Pub 2424 Hobbs, 358.9560 Rodney Parker & 50 Peso Reward 10 p.m.

Golden Light Cantina 2908 W. 6th, 374.9237

April 22 Bill Rice & The Homesick Gypsies 9 p.m. Western Horseman 2501 I-40 East, 379.6555

April 23 Casey Donahew Band 10 p.m. Midnight Rodeo 4400 S. Georgia, 358.7083

Earthfest 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Learn how to better take care of the environment.

Wildcat Bluff Nature Center 2301 N. Soncy Road, 352.6007 Texas Outdoor Family Workshop 9 a.m. Spend all day Saturday learning the techniques of camping then spend the night outdoors, and finish up the experience on Sunday. This workshop is a hands-on experience designed to teach families all the basic outdoor skills needed for a camping trip. No experience is necessary.

The fee is $55 per family up to six. For reservations, call 512.389.8903. Palo Duro Canyon State Park 11450 Park Road 5, Canyon, 488.2227

April 24

Kyle Bennett Band 10:30 p.m. Hoots Pub 2424 Hobbs, 358.9560

Nature

Special Events

April 1

April 10

Annie & Friends 8 p.m. Fibonacci Building 3306 SW 6th Ave, 236.3545

Lunch with the Longhorns 1:30-2 p.m. Palo Duro Canyon State Park 11450 Park Road 5, Canyon, 488.2227

April 3 Family Nature Hike 2-3 p.m. A one-half mile hike on the Pioneer Nature Trail to learn about the flora and fauna of the canyon. Trail is suitable for young children.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park 11450 Park Road 5, Canyon, 488.2227

April 10 Bird Walks and Talks 9-10:30 a.m. Meet at the Wildlife Viewing Blind at the Palo Duro Trading Post to begin the walk. Learn about the various species of birds in the Canyon.

Bring binoculars. No pets, please. Palo Duro Canyon State Park 11450 Park Road 5, Canyon, 488.2227

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

April 17

Night Hike Arrive at 7:45 p.m. Hike from 8-9 p.m. Venture along Juniper Riverside Trail for sights and stories. Park in the dirt parking lot on Alternate Road 5. Group size limited to 40. No pets please, reservations required, deadline April 22, 2010. Palo Duro Canyon State Park 11450 Park Road 5, Canyon, 488.2227

April 24

82

Second Saturday – Backyard Habitats 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Learn ecologically friendly ways to turn your backyard into a native habitat for birds, butterflies, etc. Wildcat Bluff Nature Center 2301 N. Soncy Road, 352.6007

Healthy Kids Day 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Event is sponsored by the YMCA to promote yearlong wellness and healthier living. There will be creative and engaging activities for kids and families. Amarillo Civic Center North Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 Girl Scout Day 1-4 p.m. Recognizes the Girl Scouts of America and celebrates the creation of the first Girl Scout group.

Amarillo Civic Center South Exhibit Hall 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 What’s a Kid to Do Fair 1–6 p.m.

Representatives from more than 25 camps and summer-activity providers will be available to provide information on camps and activities kids can do this summer.

Westgate Mall Center Court 7701 I-40 West, 345.3363

April 13 Partners in Education Banquet 6-8 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Grand Plaza Ballroom 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

April 15 Amarillo Tea Party 7 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Auditorium 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

April 25 Beach Bum Event 1:30-4:30 p.m. Lifeguard job search for the City of Amarillo Parks Department. Southeast Pool 3400 South Osage Street, 342.1564

Sports & Recreation April 10 Amarillo Venom vs. Corpus Christi Hammerheads 7:05 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096 Coors Light Softball Tournament Deadline April 6th by 5 p.m. Brackets will be drawn up the night of the 6th. Then times will be announced. Southeast Park Complex 4301 S. Osage, 378.9301

April 17 Roller Derby 7p.m. Benefits Downtown Women’s Center, Habitat for Humanity and BACA. Tri-State Fairgrounds, Rex Baxter Building 3301 E. 10th Street, 336.3913

April 23, 24 and 25 USTA Senior Mixed Doubles Deadline April 12th League Play. Deadline to register is April 12th John Stiff Park 5800 Bell, 570.8953 Amarillo Venom vs. Colorado Ice 7:05 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

Trade Shows April 9 Just Between Friends Trade Show 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Regency Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

SPRING 2010

April 10 Just Between Friends Trade Show 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m.

Amarillo Civic Center Regency Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

April 11 Just Between Friends Trade Show 12-3 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center Regency Room 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

April 21 Ben E. Keith Trade Show 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Amarillo Civic Center North and South Exhibit Halls 401 S. Buchanan, 378.3096

2617 WOLFLIN VILLAGE 353.9468 MONDAY - SATURDAY 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

83

A 332 hp open invitation.

2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster 3.7-liter V6 engine with 332 hp, 270 lb-ft of torque Power convertible soft-top with glass window Rear glass wind deflector • Power moving tonneau cover

MCGAVOCK NISSAN 4401 South Georgia, Amarillo, TX

(806) 354-3550 • www.mcgavocknissan.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION CREATED BY AMARILLO GLOBE-NEWS CUSTOM PUBLISHING

Builder

Profiles

By Lisa Pawlowski It requires a lot of talent to take an empty lot of nothing and make it into a lasting, beautiful home. It takes a detail-oriented mind to coordinate architects, framers, electricians, plumbers and interior designers to come together and bring a hazy concept in someone’s mind to a tangible reality.

Builders make dreams come true for individuals and families looking to live in a place built especially for them.

Have you considered having a home built to your specifications with the amenities you want? Take a look at the following pages and learn about some of the best builders Amarillo has to offer. One of them can get you started on your dream home today.

BUILDER PROFILES 2010

•

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

85

Builder

PROFILES

Amarillo Classic Homes

L

eon Gillispie has the distinction of building the first home in the Citadel in the 1980s. The long-time builder spent his childhood watching his father, who was a builder and remodeler.

“I just love building houses. I grew up in construction. I couldn’t wait until I could get started building new homes.”

In addition to building new houses, Gillispie also has experience in remodeling, constructing steel buildings, developing land and selling real estate. But building homes is his first love. “It is a new challenge everyday,” Gillispie says.

Gillispie says he works hard to build quality homes at affordable prices. “We build homes as good as we can so we don’t have any problems with them down the road.”

86

BUILDER PROFILES 2010

•

Aside from building the first home in the Citadel, Gillispie has spent eight years building 16 homes in the Greenways subdivision. He has two under construction there right now.

“Our number one goal has never been volume, but it has been to just build good quality homes.” Gillispie says. “With my background in building and going through an apprenticeship with lots of other good builders, I like to pride myself in thinking that we build homes we would like to live in ourselves. We concentrate on quality.

Quality is what we like to brag about and so far we have, as far as I know, 100 percent happy homeowners. We want to keep it that way. We just concentrate on keeping our customers happy.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

8009 Greenbriar, Greenways • • • • • • •

Knotty Alder cabinets w/ raised panel doors 10’ ceilings in living area, entry hall and kitchen Stainless steel appliances w/natural gas cooktop Granite counter tops in kitchen and utility room Energy Saving Low E Glass in windows Extra lg lot w/room for a pool or detached garage Large utility room including full length cabinets w/sink and walk-in pantry

Amarillo Classic Homes 806.356.8996 806.676.1301

Builder

PROFILES

Brad Haelzle Homes, LLC

M

ost people can’t say their house was built by a former minor pro hockey player. But that is not the case here in Amarillo. Born and raised in Canada, Brad Haelzle moved here in 1998 to play forward for the Amarillo Rattlers hockey team. After playing for 7 years, Haelzle came back to his first love -building.

“To pay my way through school, a family friend was in the commercial building business,” Haelzle says. “In the summers, that was what I did to pay my way through university.” Haelzle says he has always been intrigued by watching the progression from a piece of land to putting a nice building on that lot.

“In 2001, Chris Farrell, with Chris Farrell Builders, asked me to be his

superintendent. I did that for 3 years,” Haelzle says. “He just saw my potential and said, ‘You’re too good and you need the chance to do it on your own.’ He’s very honorable because I probably would have worked for him forever. I started my own company in 2004.”

Brad Haelzle Homes builds custom and spec homes. The home he constructed for the 2009 Parade of Homes, is featured below, and is the home that garnered him some prestigious awards during his first Parade. Haelzle’s home was named as Best Overall Kitchen and Best Curb Appeal. “It was a nice family home that we put a lot of time into,” Haelzle said. “It is something we are very proud of.”

Brad Haelzle Homes LLC • • • • • • • •

BUILDER PROFILES 2010

Custom lighting, hardware Cast stone fireplace, wood floors Crown molding & granite countertops throughout 7.1 surround sound Media room features 92” high def projector screen Oversized 4 car garage (1451 sq.ft.)

Gourmet kitchen with many features Steamshower in master bath & lg. master closet

Brad Haelzle Homes

806.584.0006 haelzlehomes@amarillo.com

•

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

87

Builder

PROFILES

Dominion Homes, L.P.

M

ark C. Meister has always had a passion for design. “Having a mechanical engineering background, it made sense for me to push my design talents toward an area where I could use those engineering skills. Home building seemed to be the perfect fit with regard to that,” Meister says. Meister attended a degree program in Mechanical Engineering at the Milwaukee School of Engineering. He built homes in San Antonio prior to coming to Amarillo and starting Dominion Homes in 1996.

“We always take the customers’ feelings and their monetary guidelines into consideration,” Meister says. “To me, Dominion Homes and home construction is not just a job, it’s the ability to pursue my passion, what I love.”

Meister says Dominion Homes can meet the needs of not only a first-time

88

BUILDER PROFILES 2010

•

home buyer, but also the more experienced home owner.

“We build starter homes at the $100,000 price mark, but we also have an in-house design department that allows us to design and construct custom homes in excess of a million dollars. We basically have something for everyone,” Meister says.

In 2009, Meister received the Builder of the Year award from the Texas Panhandle Builder’s Association. He also is proud of the role Dominion Homes played in rebuilding a house for a family in Wheeler, Texas.“A family had lost their home to wildfires, and we were able to help oversee the construction. We were also able to with the aid of our contractors, contribute monetarily and physically in the rebuilding of their new home in only seven days.

Only in the Panhandle!”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

7812 Greenbriar 2010 Parade Home • • • • • • • •

4 bed/3 bath/3car, 3616 total sqare feet Gourmet kitchen Bonus room with full bath and walk in closet Basement Outdoor living area with kitchen and fireplace Amazing ceiling treatments Beautiful woodwork throughout Luxurious master retreat w/spa-like master bath

Dominion Homes, L.P.

806.467.1648 www.dominionhomesamarillo.com

Builder

PROFILES

Fielding Custom Builders

R

od Fielding grew up loving to explore new homes under construction. During that time, he formed relationships with builders and other workers. “It just felt natural being in that environment. They made me feel welcome on the job site so it felt comfortable to me,” Fielding says.

Fielding later became a mechanical contractor. Through that experience, his career evolved and he started custom home building. He built his first home in 1994 with a great many beautiful custom homes completed to date.

Fielding says he has a strong reputation among his customers and doesn’t need to advertise a great deal. “Potential customers come to me and say, ‘You built a home for my friend and I want you to build us

one too’ or ‘You built us a home ten years ago, our lifestyle has changed and we want you to build us a another one.’ I’ve been blessed,” Fielding says. “People I’ve built for bring me business.”

Fielding is a Certified Graduate Builder and a Certified Green Professional through the National Association of Home Builders.

He prides himself on giving his clients exactly what they want. “I don’t build what is easiest and then force it on the customer. I’ll let them decide what style or design they want. We have the knowledge and skills to build any custom home -contemporary to traditional or modern to Mediterranean,” Fielding says.

7915 Pilgrim • • • • • • • •

BUILDER PROFILES 2010

Sleek & clean styling in living area w/open floorplan Urban-inspired media center Granite counters in kitchen w/glass tile backsplash Stainless steel Whirlpool appliances Mirabelle designer whirlpool tub Brushed nickel, urban-style light fixtures 9, 10, and 11 foot ceilings Energy saving low-E windows

Fielding Custom Builders 806.418.4720 www.rodfielding.com

•

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

89

Builder

PROFILES

KMC Homes, LLC

M

andy Cartrite, owner of KMC Homes, LLC, says she’s always loved when summer-time rolled around because even prior to becoming a builder, she looked forward to touring the beautiful houses during the Parade of Homes. She loved seeing the newest trends and techniques being used, and eventually her creative imagination would lead her to begin her career.

Since she started her business 13 years ago, many women builders have come and gone in this tough, male dominated business. Her can-do spirit has helped her business thrive.

“I am a problem-solver. When customers have challenging requests, maybe omething new or different, I work to find a way to make it happen. I love a challenge, but the reward comes from giving customers what they want.”

90

BUILDER PROFILES 2010

•

One thing that sets Cartrite apart from her peers is her feminine touch when it comes to design as she thrives on details that are too often overlooked on a blueprint.

“I strive to build my homes the way I would want to live in them. People who come through my homes say they can tell from the details that the home is designed by a woman. I put the laundry room by the bedrooms because that is where the laundry is. I focus on large closets, great kitchens with adequate cabinetry, large pantries and a large inviting master bath.

I love adding the many special touches to make it the perfect home for the customer.”

KMC Homes are always a favorite on the Parade of Homes tour. This year will be no exception!

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

#40 Cypress Point, La Paloma Golf Course • • • • • • • •

3830 Sq. Ft., 3/3.5/3 Hardwood floors Walk-out basement Media room w/projector Gourmet kitchen, Sub-Zero frig and freezer Coke machine and ice machine Hot-tub, huge master-bath and closet Security system and sound system

KMC Homes, LLC 806.683.4924

Builder

PROFILES

Old World Construction

E

ric White started in construction the day he got his driver’s license. His first job was cleaning up construction sites for builders. From there, he went on to work for sub contractors and builders after high school and through college. “I have a lot of hands-on knowledge,” White says.

White worked with a high-end production builder in Dallas while finishing his degree in Construction Science from Texas A&M University. This experience allowed him to get his own construction company up and running. He moved back home to Amarillo in 2002 and started Old World Construction.

White says his clients want unique amenities in their homes. “We aren’t just focused on building a nice interior for a home. Last year, we put in a golf simulator,

an outdoor regulation beach volleyball court and an indoor Olympic-size swimming pool in three different homes. And everyone wants a theatre room in their home now. We do exersice rooms, saunas and steam showers, too.

White works hard to keep his design ideas fresh and up-to-date. “We’re constantly trying to change the look of our homes. We want you to see something different,” White says. “A lot of builders get in a rut. If one thing sells, they keep building it until time forces them to change. We use several different designers both in town and out of town and that helps keep our product different.”

5012 Aberdeen in The Colonies • • • • • • • •

BUILDER PROFILES 2010

On the parkway with wrap-around front patio Approx 4,300 square feet 4 Bedrooms 6 Bathrooms 2 Living areas 3 Car garage Commercial kitchen Swimming pool-ready with pool bath

Old World Construction, LLC

806.236.2892 www.old-world-construction.com

•

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

91

let’s eat!

RESTAURANTS • FOOD • SPIRITS

The Back Porch & Tea Room

When Merle and Ruth Price bought The Back Porch two years ago, they made only minor changes to the already popular menu and added a few personal touches to the décor. The lunchtime hot spot has a faithful fan base, folks who can’t resist their soups, sandwiches and salads (with Raspberry Tea, please). The upstairs room is ideal for catered bridal and baby showers, midday meetings and small groups, and if you forgot to pack a lunch before work, the Price’s are happy to deliver.

Though The Back Porch was always a lunch-only restaurant, the Price’s added Saturday morning breakfasts to the menu and are now toying around with the idea of adding dinner. Regardless, it will remain a place where patrons can enjoy the friendly back yard atmosphere, complete with folding chairs, screen doors and a wooden fence that encompasses the eatery. With food like Grandma’s, a weekday lunch – or Saturday breakfast – will fill you to the brim and you can even take your tea to go. Monday through Friday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday, 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Closed on Sundays.

3440 Bell St., Suite 222 358.8871

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.

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

93

amarillo Acapulco Mexican Restaurant & Bar On warmer evenings, enjoy sitting on Polk St. while you enjoy a margarita and a traditional Mexican-style shrimp cocktail. 727 S. Polk 373.8889 acapulcomexicanrestaurant.net $$ c

Ty

NEW Aldaco’s Tacos Located on historic 6th street, you’ll find this small, authentic Mexican restaurant. Aldaco’s is filled with pictures and old posters. The wait staff is always friendly, making sure you enjoy yourself. It’s easy to have fun here, especially on live music nights. Here’s a tip: try not to fill up on the homemade chips and salsa so you can enjoy the rest of the delicious food. 3623 SW 6th 374.4945 $

CTy

Amarillo Legends Amarillo Legends serves up comfort food at its finest. Loosen your belt for old-fashioned favorites like chickenfried steak, patty melts, pot roast and bacon wrapped chopped sirloin.

Generous portions and affordable prices will keep you coming back for more. Plus, breakfast is served all day long, and kids eat free everyday. 2909 I-40 West 322.3663 $ c Antonio’s Bistro Italiano If it’s authentic Italian food you’re after, drive over to Antonio’s. The tiramisu is made fresh daily, and that’s reason enough to go. Not to mention you can totally reenact the spaghetti scene from Lady & the Tramp with your sweetheart. 2734 Westhaven Village 331.4996 $$ C ☎ T Arnold’s Burger If you’re in the mood for a juicy burger, Arnold’s is the place to visit.

They offer a variety of burgers - you name it, they probably have it. You can even order a giant 24” burger since we all know everything is bigger in Texas. Just make sure you bring a crew to help you finish it. For something special for the kids, they even have a burger with a bun shaped like a teddy bear. 1611 S. Washington 372.1741 arnoldburgers.com $ The Back Porch & Tea Room An Amarillo original, this quaint tea room serves up great lunch fare.

The Chicken Avocado Sandwich on croissant is the way to go. Get the lunch plate with a cup of cheesy veggie soup and chips. Wash it all down with their excellent flavored tea.

3440 Bell 358.8871 $

94

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

The Bagel Place Whether for breakfast or lunch, the Bagel Place offers a wide variety of flavored cream cheese and bagel flavors. Zip through the convenient drive through for a great lazy morning take home breakfast. For lunch, try their bagel sandwiches made with Boars Head cheese and meat. 3301 Bell 353.5985 $ Baker Brothers American Grill Even a half order of a Baker Brothers sandwich or salad yields a generous portion, and your bank book will appreciate the low price. Next time you drop in try the Taos salad, chock full of roasted chicken and a spicy mixture of black beans, corn and diced tomatoes. Be sure to pour on the BBQ sauce with the Ranch. Only then is the salad complete. 3300 S. Soncy 352.6135 / 1901 S. Georgia 352.9000 bakerbrosdeli.com $ y Bangkok Tokyo This casual, quaint place is often packed, so try it for an early dinner or a late lunch. Try the Crispy Chicken with Basil or the Bangkok Tokyo Fried Rice. Neither disappoints. 2413 S. Western 353.4777 $$ Beef O’Brady’s There’s something for every member of the family at Beef’s. Enjoy the game while you eat. If you’ve never eaten their fried Oreos, they are worth every calorie. 7306 SW 34th 358.0997 beefobradys.com $ C Belmar Bakery Open since 1965, Belmar Bakery is definitely 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 newly remodeled café offers a cozy place to meet for early morning coffee and pastries or tasty lunch with friends. 3325 Bell 355.0141 $ ^ Biti Pies Biti Pies are miniature versions of the traditional pies everyone loves.

They are just the right size for one person and possibly a friend - that is if you feel like sharing. Don’t miss out on this bite-sized treat that is meltin-your-mouth good. 604 S. Maryland 367.6413, bitipies.com $ Café Marizon Enjoy the quaint café atmosphere in a historic building on Polk. Great homecooked 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 Calico County An Amarillo favorite for decades, the home-cooked taste keeps people going back for more. You can’t beat the petite cinnamon rolls dripping in butter, the squash casserole and the chicken-fried chicken. Be sure to try their excellent waffles as well. 2410 Paramount 358.7664 $ 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 their first-rate Caesar salad and garlic bread. You can’t go wrong with any of the authentic pasta entrees.

2916 Wolflin Avenue 358.2099 $$ C Cheddars There’s a reason that there is always a crowd at Cheddars. They serve outstanding American-style food at prices that won’t break your budget, which makes it the perfect place to bring the whole family. Treat yourself to a basket of buttery honey-kissed croissants with your meal, and no matter what you order, you’ll discover that everything’s good. 3901 I-40 West 358.2111 cheddars.com $$ c ^ Cowboy Gelato Who says Italian-style gelato and cowboy hats don’t mix? We’ll admit that the saloon décor and “Hi ya’ll” greeting might throw you, but this isn’t your average ice cream shop (it is Amarillo, after all). After more than a few sample spoonfuls of gelato, we settled on the lime and the banana chocolate chip, but its all good. 2806 SW 6th Ave. 376.5286 $ Coyote Bluff Café Don’t let the outside fool you. This is seriously good food. The full pound, green chili cheese burger is Southwest divine (add jalapenos for extra zip). Cool off with an ice cold beer. 2417 S. Grand 373.4640 coyotebluffcafe.com $ C ^ Crazy Larry’s BBQ A visit to Larry’s isn’t complete without an order of Frito Pie – make it a “moose” with the works. Their authentic Texas-style BBQ is fingerlicking good, and everything on the menu is delivered with some of the friendliest service in town. The prices are reasonable too. 4315 Teckla 359.3176 $ Crush Wine Bar & Deli Have you always wished for your very own Cheers? A place where everybody

knows your name? Forget the beer and peanuts, Crush Wine Bar & Deli has that beat by a mile. Not sure how to choose from the extensive wine list? No worries, they’ll school you on their favorites, and you can try a smaller pour just to be sure. Also try the excellent tapas, sandwiches and desserts. 701 S. Polk 418.2011 crushdeli.com $$ c y ^ David’s Steakhouse The elegant renovations have even carried over to the revamped menu.

New and improved is great, but David’s signature marinated filet is outstanding. For die hard Seafood Galley fans, you can still get their yummy fish and chips. 2721 Virginia Circle 355.8171 davidssteaks.com $$

c☎

Doug’s For a quick and tasty meal, stop at Doug’s and try the chopped beef sandwich. The menu is reasonably priced and their barbecue sauce is fantastic. 3313 S. Georgia 352.8471 $ Dyer’s Bar-B-Que If you’re a meat lover, Dyers is the place for you. Their all-you-can-eat lunch special is hard to beat. Wash it all down with sweet tea and finish up with a heaping bowl of hot fruit cobbler. 1619 S. Kentucky 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. 2441 I-40 West 353.7476 eat-rite.com $ El Bracero Mexican Restaurant For ten years, El Bracero has provided hungry patrons with delicious meals and great traditional Mexican food. The Nachos con Carne appetizer and a Michelada are a must.

If you have big eaters to feed, try the Parrillada. 3303 Bell 355.0889 / 2116 S. Grand 373.4788 / 2822 W. 6th, 220.2395 $Tc

Shouldn’t blowing out the candles be about the wish versus the battle for air?

People with asthma know what it is to struggle for each breath, worrying about how they will get through the day – or the night. In time, fear and frustration begin to limit even the most basic activities, leading to poorer overall health and even depression.

The good news is that treatment programs today can provide relief and renewal – and enough wind to blow out all the candles in one breath. Now that is a wish come true!

UPDATE

El Manantial If sea food is what you crave, try El Manantial’s Camarones a la Diabla, shrimp simmered in red sauce, oranges and cucumber slices served with white rice and salad. And for something refreshing, try the rice water also known as horchata. 3823 Amarillo Blvd. East 383.1852 $ C El Tejavan Authentic Mexican food is definitely on the menu at El Tejavan.

We love their homemade guacamole

It’s Time to Feel Better!

With increased awareness, proper diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment program, you can overcome asthma’s assaults and take control of your health and well being. Welcome back to the good life!

To find out more, contact Allergy A.R.T.S. at (806) 353-7000 or visit our Web site at www.allergyarts.com

UPDATE

6842 Plum Creek Drive Amarillo, Texas 79124

Constantine Saadeh, M.D., FACP, FACR

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

95

let’s eat!

DINING SPOTLIGHT

Carolina’s Wood-Fired Italian Just imagine you’re in Italy at Nonna’s house. You close your eyes, inhale deeply and smell the mixture of basil, garlic, asiago cheese, and sautéed tomatoes. That’s exactly what you will find at Carolina’s, wonderful smells to greet you at the door. The cuisine has a northern Italian taste and Carolina’s uses the freshest ingredients. You might have to make several trips so that you can sample a few of the entrees, pizzas, salads or calzones. The atmosphere works for families, friends or dates. 2916 Wolflin Avenue 358.2099 $ C

served up thick with onions and cilantro. Their Ceviche makes for a great starter or a light meal.

For authentic taste, try the soft corn tortilla chicken tacos. The recipes at El Tejavan have been passed down for generations, so everything’s good. 3801 I-40 East 372.5250 / 3420 I-40 West 354.2444 $$ c T English Field House Restaurant Visit a piece of Amarillo history at the English Field House. Named for Amarillo’s first air field, the restaurant offers great cooked fresh café food. Take the family for Sunday breakfast. It’s worth the drive.

10610 American Drive 335.2996 $ Famous Dave’s If you live in a house that’s divided over which barbecue style is best, make peace at Famous Dave’s. Not only can you choose the type of meat, but you can choose your sauce as well. They truly have something for everyone. 8518 I-40 West 358.3283 famousdaves.com $$ c Fernando’s Restaurant & Cantina Family-owned and operated, Fernando’s serves up classic Tex-Mex with a twist. They offer a self-serve salsa bar that caters to the tastes of even the most delicate diner. From spicy to mild, zesty to sweet, there’s something for everyone, even cucumber and chipotle salsa. 2028 Paramount Blvd. 356.0342 $ c

96

Fire Slice Brick Oven Pizzeria You’ll know you’re in for a good time at Fire Slice when you see the menu. Choose from pizza specialties like “Tommy Boy” and “Hot Momma” or build your own. Each pizza is made fresh in their custom-built pizza oven. 7306 SW 34th, Space 10 (behind Chop Chop) 331-2232 fireslice.com $$ C Gatti’s Food galore is what you will find at Gatti’s with unlimited pizza, pasta, salad bar and desserts.

You won’t have to tell the kids twice to finish their meal because once they do, they can head to Gatti Town and feed their fun. 4412 S. Western 355.5601 gattispizza.com $ Golden Light Café As the oldest operating restaurant in Amarillo, the Golden Light 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, they’ve got it.

And you can’t beat the country atmosphere for a relaxing good time. 13651 Interstate 27 622.2200 greenchilewillys.com $$ ^

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

Hoagies Deli Hoagies made a name for themselves with their delicious Philly steak sandwich. Now they have a new location and a newly expanded menu. Fill up at lunch or dinner with a warm Panini or a generously portioned Colossal Spud. 2207 S. Western 353.5952 hoagiesdeli.com $ Home Plate Diner Missed out on tickets to tonight’s Dillas game? Take your favorite baseball fan out for a baseball inspired meal instead. The walls at Home Plate are covered in local and national baseball memorabilia, and they serve everything you might order to eat at the game at prices that are easy on your wallet. 5600 Bell 359.4444 $ Hummer’s Sports Café Hang out with friends, Cheers style, and eat your fill of their great appetizers. Start off with a platter of raw oysters and a bucket of beer. We highly recommend the steak. 2600 Paramount 353.0723 $$

cy

Jamaican Flame You’ll feel like you’re on vacation in the Caribbean when you visit Jamaican Flame. It’s off the beaten path but worth the effort spent finding it. Feast on favorites like Jerk ribs, chicken and pork along with sandwiches, pasta, rice dishes and even bread pudding. Vegan friendly and you can BYOB. 4132 Business Park Dr. 322.1043 $-$$ Joe Taco Great atmosphere and a variety of southwest favorites make Joe Taco a great place to sit and relax. Especially while enjoying one of their signature margaritas out on the patio. 7312 Wallace Blvd. 331.8226 joetaco.net $$ C ☎ T y ^ Jorge’s Mexican Bar & Grill If you’re in the mood for fajitas, look no further than Jorge’s Mexican Bar and Grill, specifically their new location at Hillside and Bell. Portion sizes are generous and prices are reasonable. 6051 S. Bell 354.2141 $$ c y ^ Jorge’s Tacos Garcia At Jorge’s, serving authentic Mexican food is a family affair. In the same location since 1999, the Veloz family serves up traditional favorites that keep their loyal customers coming back time after time. Try the Swiss enchiladas or the Chile Relleno Lampriados. You won’t be disappointed. 1100 Ross 372.0411 tacosgarcia.com $$ c K-N Root Beer If you’ve tried K-N’s yummy burgers and floats, then you know why they’ve been a success for more than 40 years. The K-N Special, a double meat, double cheese burger melts in your mouth. There’s nothing like the old-fashioned icy mug of root beer!

3900 Olsen 355.4391 $ 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 entrees like beef or chicken kabobs, meatball stew (our favorite) and stuffed grape leaves. It’s all delicious. 4925 S. Western, 331.6771 $

Kabuki Romanza Who says you can’t enjoy fresh sushi aboard a boat in the heart of the Panhandle? Kabuki Romanza serves teppan-style cooking and fresh-sliced sushi in a dining area that resembles a boat, surrounded by special effects that add to the tropical feel. 8130 I-40 West 353.4242 kabukiromanza.com $$-$$$ ^ C

Las Brisas Las Brisas is the perfect place to unwind at the end of a hectic work week. Relax with friends, a great glass of merlot and a juicy steak served on sizzling butter.

Heck, who needs to wait for the weekend? 3311 Olsen 331.2800 lasbrisassouthweststeakhouse.com $$

The King & I Feast on authentic Thai food at The King & I. They specialize in soups and stir-fry dishes and offer an extensive all-you-can-eat buffet for both lunch and dinner. If you’re ordering off the menu, we recommend the Cashew Chicken. 2300 Bell 355.1016 $

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. Their guarantee: no hot beer and no small steaks. FM 1151 622.9827 $$ c

Kolache Café If you like authentic beirox, you’ll be delighted with the Kolache Café. And it doesn’t stop there. Choose from a variety of meat and fruit fillings for a filling breakfast, lunch or mid-day snack. Everything on the menu is baked fresh daily and so affordable that you can grab a dozen kolaches to go for a quick and tasty meal. 2207 S. Western, Suite B1-90 322.3279 $ y La Fiesta Grande Authentic taste and a lively atmosphere make La Fiesta a great place to take the whole family.

From nachos to barbacoa, there’s something for every taste. 2200 Ross 374.3689 / 7415 SW 45th 352.1330 lafiestagrande.com $$ C La Frontera La Frontera has served the Amarillo community for more than 20 years, offering the true taste of authentic traditional Mexican food. With a cozy atmosphere, great service, friendly staff and delicious food, what else could you ask for? 1401 S. Arthur 372.4593 eatatlafrontera.com $ T Landshark’s Billiard & Sports Grill Locally owned and operated, Landshark’s combines the energy of a billiards parlor with a range of standard and not-so standard grill fare from chicken strips to their “garbage plate,” three mini burgers piled on top of three different salads. In addition to billiards action, you’ll also find video games and dart leagues all in a smokefree atmosphere. And they’ll make sure you quickly feel like part of the family when they greet you by name. 3415 Bell, Suite K 352.3864 landsharksbilliards.com $ c

c☎y

Malcom’s Ice Cream & Food Temptations Malcom’s offers the ultimate in classic soda fountain food: burgers, sandwiches, and salads - everything’s good. Be sure you save room for dessert. Better yet, start with a treat.

After all, it’s the most important part of the meal at Malcom’s. 2100 Paramount 355.3892 $ Marty’s Stop by for Marty’s expansive Sunday brunch, and you’ll leave satisfied and ready for an afternoon nap.

Their made-to-order omelets are definitely worth the trip. If you’re not in the mood for traditional breakfast fare, try the prime rib and Canyon Rose chicken. 2740 Westhaven Village 353.3523 $$ T ^ c Nachos Bar & Grill Enjoy the fresh hot sauce and chips while you wait for your food. The wait staff are efficient and friendly, and the home town feel of Nachos makes this a great place to take the kids. 3333 S. Coulter 322.1140 $ c OHMS Café & Bar Set in downtown Amarillo, OHMS serves lunch buffet style and dinner in style. The chefs feature specials each week that range from seafood to smoked duck to grilled beef tenderloin. Excellent cuisine and service make this a delightful place to linger. 619 S. Tyler 373.3233 ohmscafe. com $$$ ☎ T ^ C Outback Steakhouse Let’s just start with the Bloomin’ Onion. We could actually end there and be completely satisfied, but what’s a trip to Outback without a Wallaby Darned and Pepper Mill Steak? Speaking of completely satisfied, leave room for the april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

97

Chocolate Thunder From Down Under.

7101 I-40 West 352.4032 outback.com $$ ^ c Pacific Rim The Pacific Rim offers a variety of Asian Fusion cuisine in a unique setting. One of the best things about this place is the greeting you’ll get from Andy when you walk in. But let’s talk food. Their lettuce wraps are outstanding. In fact, everything is good. They even offer speedy delivery. 2061 Paramount 353.9179 pacificrimam.com $ C Pei Wei Pei Wei is always busy, but it’s certainly worth the wait. Your dining experience isn’t complete without the lettuce wraps or crab wontons. From there, delight your taste buds with the beef ginger broccoli. 3350 S. Soncy 352.5632 peiwei.com $$ ^ C Pizza Planet For dine-in or take-out, Pizza Planet offers some of the best pizza in town.

If you like a good chef salad, this is your place. Be prepared to share; it’s huge. 2400 Paramount 353.6666 $-$$

C The Plaza A long-time Amarillo favorite, the many loyal customers of the Plaza attest to the great food and affordable prices. Eat your fill of the fresh chips and hot sauce and enjoy the laid back atmosphere. Perfect for a family night out, they offer enough variety to suit the pickiest eaters. 3415 Bell 358.4897 $c The Potato Factory Too Come hungry to The Potato Factory where you can fill up fast on huge baked potatoes loaded with toppings from veggies to chili. They’ve also got some of the best chili dogs and Frito pie in town. 2808 SW 34th 463.7783 $ NEW Real Food Café Located in Blue Sage Pottery & Art Gallery, this quaint café serves up an abundance of scrumptious crepes.

Everything is made from scratch including savory crepes, soups, salads, and dessert crepes. Start with a bowl of soup and feast your way to their Cordon Bleu. Loosen your belt and finish up with a dessert crepe.

The chocolate crepe sure made us happy. 3302 6th 374.6568 $ Rio Grande Grill With food this good, it’s a shame they’re not open on weekends. Their breakfast burritos will give you enough fuel to last until lunch. If

98

Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

lunch suites you better, the nachos supreme taste like grandma made them from scratch. We are big fans.

909 S. Madison 372.2950 $ Robinson’s BBQ NEW Robinson’s has mastered the art of BBQ. We love their BBQ sandwiches. But don’t limit yourself to just a sandwich because they also serve tasty Frito pies. If you’re in the mood for breakfast, try their excellent breakfast burritos. 5920 Hillside 358.2194 $ 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 their 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 their homemade tortillas, made fresh everyday. 4312 SW 45th 351.1194 $ ^ 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 $ Saffron You can experience the rich culture of the Middle East right here in Amarillo.

Saffron’s menu consists of traditional Greek, Persian, and Mediterranean dishes. The dining area is small and simple, but this really ads to the authenticity. Leave room for the Baklava. 1511 S. Nelson 367.8899 $ C 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 $$ C y Sharky’s Burrito Company Think of Sharky’s as a burrito assembly line, a place where you call the shots and load a tortilla (flavored or not) with all your favorite toppings.

Start with the meat and work your way through a plethora of options including beans, rice, veggies and cheese. The endless combinations will keep you going back for more.

1612 S. Georgia 359.7330 $

Stockyard Café Experience the western heritage of Amarillo at the Stockyard Café. They serve up excellent steaks that will surely satisfy your beef cravings.

Plus, the Stockyard also offers a hearty breakfast every day starting at 6 a.m. 101 S. Manhattan 342.9411 $$

^C Taqueria El Tapatio Taqueria El Tapatio serves up authentic Mexican flavor in every dish they offer. 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 Firehouse Sports Bar & Grill More grill than bar, Texas Firehouse offers everything from a delicious fried green bean appetizer to steaks, all in a family friendly smoke-free environment. Watch all your favorite sporting events while you eat. 3333 S. Coulter 351.1800 $-$$ C NEW Thai Orchid Thai Orchid serves possibly the best summer rolls in town: fresh, crispy, and perfectly proportioned.

Try the Pad Kee Mao and you won’t be disappointed. And for those brave souls who like their food on the spicy side, you can’t go wrong with the jalapeno fried-rice or spicy chicken.

3701 Olsen 468.7011 $ Tsunami Tsunami offers traditional Japanese steakhouse fare at affordable prices.

Start out with the 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 $ Village Bakery & Café The Village offers a large selection of hand-made European pastries and breads to complement their fresh gourmet style breakfasts, lunches and dinners. The casual bistro setting makes it perfect place for a special lunch date. 2606 Wolflin Village 358.1358 villagebakerycafe.com $ ^ y Vince’s Pizza Vince’s calzones are some of the best we’ve had. He also offers wonderful Greek salads, gyros and a huge family-sized pizza. The quirky atmosphere will make you feel like you’re in Little Italy. 2413 S. Western 352.2656 $ Western Bowl The next time you’re looking for dinner and some fun with the family, swing by Western Bowl. They strike

up five different bowling specials throughout the week. After you’ve worked up an appetite from all the bowling, head to the restaurant for some old-fashioned American food like a patty-melt or a B.L.T. 5120 Canyon Drive 352.2737 $ c 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 southern fried chicken with waffles.

The mix of savory and sweet is delicious. Save room for dessert when you dine. You won’t want to miss the waffle cheesecake. It’s a big Belgian waffle piled high with cheesecake filling, whipped cream and both chocolate and caramel syrup. 2710 10th Avenue 342.5400 $ Ye Old Pancake Station With breakfast this good, you’ll be glad to know that the Pancake Station serves it all day long. They also offer great café style meals. We recommend the huge omelets and fresh pancakes. 2800 Virginia Circle 355.0211 $ ^ Young Sushi The friendly greeting you’ll 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, they also offer authentic Thai cuisine.

900 S. Tyler 371.7200 $$ C Zen 721 We can’t decide if it’s the menu or the atmosphere that we like most at Zen. Whether it’s lunch with co-workers, sushi with friends, or a romantic dinner for two, Zen doesn’t disappoint. The chef keeps things fresh with new nightly specials and excellent presentation for each dish. It’s a truly unique venue. Zen’s features Asian-American cuisine with a Japanese influence, the wine list is extensive, and their desserts are the perfect finish to an excellent meal.

616 S. Polk 372.1909 zen721.com $$ UPDATE

^ c☎

canyon NEW Buffalo’s Southwest Café Buffalo’s offers traditional Southwestern fare with hardy ingredients like corn, black beans and chili meat in a number of their specialties. Everything’s tasty but we recommend starting with april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

99

let’s eat!

their famous hot wings. 2811 4th Ave. 655.4400 buffaloscafe.com $ c NEW El Patio Mexican Restaurante Sometimes the only thing that will satisfy pesky hunger pains is great Tex-Mex, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at El Patio. The comfortable atmosphere and exceptional service add up to a perfectly satisfying meal. 1410 Hereford Hwy. 655.4300 $ NEW Fat Boy’s BBQ Fat Boy’s has been dishing up delicious Texas-style barbeque since 1988 so it’s safe to say they know what they’re doing. The meat has the perfect amount of smoky flavor. Top that off with their sweet barbeque sauce and a few homemade sides and your taste buds will thank you. 104 23rd 655.7363 $ NEW Feldman’s Wrong Way Diner Step into Feldman’s and you might wonder where you are, Gilligan’s Island, a model train shop or an eatery. As soon as you catch a whiff of their classic American food, you’ll know. The fun, casual

atmosphere and model trains that run a course along the ceiling make Feldman’s a great place for the whole family. Try the made-fresh burgers or the Tortuga chicken, satisfaction guaranteed. 1701 5th St. 655.2700 $ NEW Rock ‘n Roll Soda Shoppe Located on the square in downtown Canyon, the Rock’ n Roll Soda Shoppe offers classic soda shoppe fare along with a few Southwestern treats.

The Chick-a-Dilla, a chicken fajita quesadilla served with hot sauce and guacamole, is particularly good along with any of their specialty drinks. A visit isn’t complete without a trash can lid sundae sampler, a smaller portion of all their sundae flavors served up on a trash can lid. 404 15th St. 655.3381 $ y NEW Sayakomarn’s Sayakomarn’s offers a variety of traditional Thai dishes with daily lunch specials that won’t empty your wallet. Be sure you try their Boba tea made with tapioca balls and shaken into fruit flavored or milk tea. It’s yummy. 419 16th St. 655.2698 $c ☎

hereford NEW Brix Steakhouse Brix is more than just a steakhouse. The diverse menu offers something for everyone including seafood and chicken. You’ll enjoy the relaxed, cozy atmosphere as you dine. 1404 W 1st 364.2583 $ c

vega NEW Boot Hill Saloon Chef Rory, a Jersey native, features her signature recipes at the Boot Hill Saloon. She’s been a guest on “The Rachel Ray Show” and worked with chefs Bobby Flay, Giada Delaurentis, and Paula Dean, to name a few. So when you visit, you know you’re in for a treat. The food is superb a mixture of great culinary skill with a Texas twist, and her “sweet after thoughts” are to die for.

909 Vega Blvd. 267.2904. boothillvega.com $$ y ☎

c

taste of the city SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

100 Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

taste of the city

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

101

Voted Best Flooring Store 6 Straight Years!

Increase the Value of Your Home With...

Custom Granite Countertops Rick Lovelady R C L CARPETS

C | V | T | W | G C

102 Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

R C L

 I- W | A, T .. | ... - - |  -

AN ADVERTISING SECTION CREATED BY AMARILLO GLOBE-NEWS CUSTOM PUBLISHING

The Future of Rotary is In Your Hands

Spring / Summer 2010 | www.ridistrict5730.org

that this was more than a service club, I joined. At my first meeting as a member, the president told us about a new program that was being implemented

by Rotary International called PolioPlus.

Its mission was to eradicate polio from the planet.

This was a real shock to me A child receives oral polio vaccine. Polio has been eradicated in all but a handful of Third because when World countries.

I was 7 years old, I had polio.

I do not remember much about it, but I do remember being rushed to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., and to St. Mary’s

By Paul Borchardt Hospital. While there, I remember getting repeated spinal injections and immediately after, being wheeled past rooms with little olioPlus and Rotary have a special human heads sticking out of big round gray meaning to me. The first I heard machines that made loud sucking sounds. about Rotary was when I graduated When I asked who they were, from high school. I was I was told that they were being asked to attend a Rotary treated for polio. After the spinals, meeting along with two other I was taken by a nurse, Sister graduating seniors. During Mary, who would massage me in the meeting, I was introduced a tub of warm water, then put me as the “Outstanding Senior of back into bed. One day, I asked her 1961.” I was so shocked that if the hospital was named for her.

I never did know what the She replied “No” but said she had other two got recognized for. a surprise for me. I was expecting After my military service Paul Borchardt to be put into the gray machine, and returning to Amarillo, I but as we entered the room, my was asked to attend a Rotary parents were there to take me home. I do meeting by a Rotarian with whom I had remember the ride home. When I asked done business. why I was not put into the gray machine, my After a couple of meetings and learning

mother said “We prayed for you.”

Initially as a Rotarian, I thought that total eradication of polio was a rather ambitious undertaking, but through the years since 1985, more than a million volunteers have given more than 2 billion children polio vaccines in 122 countries.

In the early 1950s, there were 16,000 polioparalyzed Americans per year. Today, there are fewer than 2,000 polio cases worldwide annually. This past year, The Bill Gates Foundation challenged Rotary with a $200 million matching grant to continue the effort and finally eradicate polio from the planet.

We are nearly there and when there are real needs and there is a dream to accomplish them, I know that Rotary International will be unafraid to get it done.

Paul Borchardt is a member of the Rotary Club of Amarillo.

Polio Plus

P

THE FOUR-WAY TEST:

Of the things we think, say or do: 1. Is it the truth?

2. Is it fair to all concerned?

3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?

4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Spring/Summer 2010 | 103

The Rotary Club of Amarillo Chartered December 1, 1917 Meetings: Thursday at noon Amarillo Country Club President: Karen Hicks 373.2884 The Rotary Club of Amarillo - East Chartered February 8, 1968 Meetings: Monday at noon Wellington Room 505 Tennessee St. President: Wes Conner 378.3805 The Rotary Club of Amarillo - South Chartered October 24, 1984 Meetings: Thursday 7:00 am Amarillo Club 30th floor 7th & Tyler President: Ron Knoy 373.2050 The Rotary Club of Amarillo - West Chartered April 1, 1957 Meetings: Friday at noon Amarillo Country Club President: Bob Dempsey 683.2052 The Rotary Club of Canyon Chartered December 3, 1928 Meetings: Tuesday at noon West Texas A&M - Buffalo Room President: M. Keith Brown 655.2528

Advertising Director Creative Services Manager Editor Graphic Designer

Publisher Production Director Division Controller

Mike Distelhorst Steven Adams Michele McAffrey Brian Bussey

Les Simpson Mike O’Connor Mike Clayton

900 S. Harrison St., Amarillo, TX 79101 806.376.4488 Rotary Action is a special advertising section created by Amarillo Globe-News Custom Publishing

From left, Rotary Club presidents Bob Dempsey, Rotary West; Wes Conner, Rotary East; Karen Hicks, Rotary Club of Amarillo; Ron Knoy, Rotary South; and Keith Brown, Canyon Rotary Club.

Presidents’ Letter Think of what the words “Rotary International” mean.

They tell of an organization with a worldwide scope and reach. So it is with Rotary and the five clubs that serve the Amarillo and Canyon communities.

While we, as Rotarians, are proud of the work we do to improve our home region, we also are proud of the outreach we extend throughout the world.

The Rotary Foundation embodies that work. And our clubs are involved in various fundraising efforts to shore up the Foundation’s good work around the world. We raise money at our weekly meetings, we develop special fundraising events throughout the year, and, best of all, we get involved at the ground level with projects meant to improve the lives of the less fortunate folks who share this world with us.

We also welcome students from abroad, and we send our own students to foreign lands to learn of new cultures and gain new life experiences.

Several of our clubs have sponsored young professionals to take part in Group Study Exchange, which each year sends people abroad to study their professions and to be ambassadors for Rotary, our Rotary District, West Texas and the United States of America. This year, Rotary South and the Rotary Club of Amarillo each sponsored a member

104 | Spring/Summer 2010 | www.ridistrict5730.org | Special Advertising Section

of a team that has just returned from a month in Thailand.

Rotary West has partnered with St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church to provide mosquito netting for residents in Ghana.

The Canyon Rotary Club is working with West Texas A&M University’s Rotaract Club to assist physicians working in a hospital in Pakistan. The Canyon club is helping finance a water well project in that nation as well.

Rotary East has sponsored development of a school in the Dominican Republic, sending Christmas cards and money annually to the school.

The Rotary Club of Amarillo, in addition to sponsoring a GSE team member in Thailand, is working to help residents of Panama on a whole array of issues: better health care, water development, food and school supplies.

And we are working year-round on ways to raise money for Rotary International’s signature project, PolioPlus, which since 1986 has virtually eradicated the disease from the planet.

We’re not there, but we’re getting close.

Take a look at this special section to learn how Rotary is helping our communities extend their giving spirit from the Panhandle to the far reaches of the world.

Enjoy.

Group Study Exchange

GSE Meet and Greet Scheduled

By John Kanelis

It’s called Group Study Exchange.

A “group” of young professionals goes abroad to “study” their craft with colleagues and “exchange” ideas with them, and with their colleagues back home.

It’s a worthwhile endeavor that changes the lives of those who participate.

GSE occurs every year with District 5730. The Amarillo and Canyon Rotary clubs participate actively in this project, which is funded fully by the Rotary International Foundation.

[Rotary’s] larger mission is... building peace and understanding among nations through person-to-person contact.

Based on the success enjoyed by many prior GSE’s with many districts around the world, we can say without a doubt that we are accomplishing that mission.

District 5730 assembled a team that traveled to Thailand during the month of February. That team exchanged with District 3360, which sent a team to West Texas this month. The team leader for the 2010 GSE is Dan Linebarger, past president of the Rotary Club of Midland and a former GSE team member. Dan took part in the GSE journey to South Korea in 1992. Dan’s first GSE experience acquainted him with Rotary, which he joined upon his return from the Far East – and he continues to serve Rotary in an outstanding manner.

The Rotary district puts out a call for non-Rotarians to apply for spots on the team. The district sets aside four spots on the GSE team. Rotary International rules require that team members be nonRotarians, age 25 to 40 and with at least two years of experience in their profession.

The team embarks on a four-week adventure abroad. Rotary International pays

for the roundtrip air fare, plus all GSErelated expenses.

The 2009 GSE team spent most of May and part of June in Israel and toured District 2490 while a team from Israel was touring District 5730.

The project is designed to promote Rotary at home. Its larger mission is to advance Rotary International’s mission of building peace and understanding among nations through person-to-person contact.

Based on the success enjoyed by many prior Group Study Exchanges with many districts around the world, we can say without a doubt that we are accomplishing that mission.

The next inbound GSE team is coming in April 2011 from the Dominican Republic. And the next outbound team from District 5730 will be visiting that island nation in April 2012. It is not too early to begin looking for qualified professionals who are eager to take part in a life-changing adventure.

A Group Study Exchange team has just landed in West Texas from Thailand. The Rotary clubs of Amarillo and Canyon want to extend a heartfelt welcome to the public to attend an event at the Virgil Patterson Auditorium, 701 S. Taylor, in the Happy State Bank building.

The team, representing District 3360 in northern Thailand, will be touring West Texas for the month of April, concluding its visit by attending the multi-district Rotary conference in San Antonio, which begins April 29th.

The event occurs on Monday, April 5th, from 6 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Come meet our Thai visitors and extend a warm and hearty West Texas welcome.

John Kanelis is a member of the Rotary Club of Amarillo and served as GSE team leader for an exchange that toured Israel in May and June.

(Clockwise from top) GSE team members (from left) Joel Morris, Danielle Baeza, Dan Linebarger, Kristen Carter and Jennifer Rankin in front of one of the many sights the group saw during its tour of Thailand; Jennifer Rankin examines an ancient gong; GSE team enjoys hospitality of host Rotarians in District 3360 in northern Thailand.

Special Advertising Section

| www.ridistrict5730.org | Spring/Summer 2010 | 105

Dominican School

By Zack Wilson

T

he Rotary Club of Amarillo East and the Amarillo-based Christian Relief Fund have shared a dream for more than 20 years to give children access to education in the underdeveloped western region of the Dominican Republic.

The association of the two groups began in 1988, when the Amarillo East International Committee met with CRF to discuss the possibility of an international project. At that time, the charity had received a request from CRF workers in the community of Neiba, Dominican Republic to start a primary school.

Rural communities of the Dominican Republic, especially those in the western region near the Haitian border, suffer from extreme poverty and a low investment in education. The schools for the poor were overcrowded and had practically no supplies.

Amarillo East Rotary Club helped start a small school in the poorest neighborhood of Neiba. It began with only two grades and two teachers. A grade was added each year until the school became a full primary school

serving students from kindergarten through eighth grade.

The school literally transformed the neighborhood.

Parents felt ownership and became more involved in school activities and their children’s lives. Since the Christian Relief Fund Primary School Students study their lessons in a Dominican Republic school sponsored by the Rotary East Club. began, there have been many successes.

One student who got his start at the school, to individual students through a Christmas Winton Brito, received a full four-year card project. The simple international project scholarship to Utah State University in has helped hundreds of students have the 2007. Winton was able to visit the club and opportunity of education. personally thank the members for their donations and interest.

The school has grown to an enrollment of Zack Wilson is a member 600 students. Amarillo East Rotarians still make an annual gift and send encouragement of Amarillo East Rotary Club.

Jim Schooler

Karen Hicks

David C. Woodburn

Schooler Funeral Home

Casters of Amarillo

David C. Woodburn, D.D.S.

4100 S. Georgia Amarillo, Texas 79110

1520 S. Polk Amarillo, Texas 79101

806-352-2727

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO

806-373-2884 www.casterama.com

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO

106 | Spring/Summer 2010 | www.ridistrict5730.org | Special Advertising Section

Cosmetic & General Dentistry

3609 S. Georgia Amarillo, Texas 79109

806-358-7471

www.dentaldave.com

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO

Panama Project

R

otarian George Pat Walsh and his spouse, Betty Gray, spent several years working with his church to improve the lives of destitute Panamanians living in a remote area of northwest Panama. Tragically, George Pat was killed in a car accident in Panama in early

Panamanian women forge a stream.

2008. Betty wished their work to continue and provided a substantial endowment to our club to fund needed assistance.

By Paige Carruth

In 2008, Rotarian Rosemartha Cates and her husband, Jim, traveled to Boquete, Panama to develop plans and priorities for this project with members of the Rotary Club of Boquete. Visits to the Llano Nopo community resulted in a long list of needs focused primarily around the school operated by a Jesuit priest. Their school provides educational opportunities for approximately 1,000 students in grades 1 through 12 while dealing with a very challenging struggle to make it worthwhile.

Llano Nopo is in the Ngobe Bugle Comarca (reservation), approximately 35 miles (four hours) from Boquete. Access to this mountainous area is difficult at best and impossible during the region’s monsoon season. Water storage, a

Workers examine a construction site in northwest Panama.

dormitory, food, school supplies, a generator, batteries for a solar system, beds, mattresses and other basic necessities were initially addressed. Children’s shoes were in demand since many of them walked great distances to attend the school. Gifts to our club and matching grants from Rotary District 5730 and The Rotary Foundation enabled our club to supply funds in excess of $75,000 for this project so far. Help for this community will continue for several more years.

Rotarians in Boquete, Panama oversee the actual work that is done. They gather supplies and truck them to Llano Nopo and continuously plan for future needs.

This small Rotary Club is providing a monumental service that will enhance the lives of many people in years to come.

Paige Carruth is a member of the Rotary Club of Amarillo and is a past district governor for District 5730.

Dorothy Puckett

Bob Gerald

Candace Norris

Action Realty Group

Panhandle Eye Group

Candace Norris, P.C.

4557 S. Western St. Amarillo, Texas 79109

7308 Fleming Ave. Amarillo, Texas 79106

806-570-1414

806-331-4444

Attorney at Law

112 SW 8th Ave., Suite 608 Amarillo, Texas 79101

www.dorothypuckett.com

806-374-1976

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO Special Advertising Section

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO

| www.ridistrict5730.org | Spring/Summer 2010 | 107

Mosquito Net

Each year, 350 million to 500 million cases of malaria occur in at least 109 countries. One to three million of those cases result in death, the majority of whom are young children in Sub-Saharan Africa.

By Jeffrey Bempong

Childhood Mortality

A child dies of malaria every 30 seconds, according to the World Health Organization. alaria is a mosquito-borne In Africa, one in every five childhood deaths infectious disease. It is widespread is due to the disease. Worldwide, malaria is in tropical and subtropical the fourth-leading cause of death in children regions, including parts of the Americas, under five years old.

Asia and Africa.

Malaria is not just a disease of The word malaria is the poverty stricken, but also derived from the Italian a causeof poverty and a major word for “bad air” because hindrance to economic development of the early belief that the internationally. disease was caused by Illnesses and deaths due to malaria breathing the stale, warm, cost African countries about $12 humid air found in swamps. billion a year in lost productivity.

The Italians were not far The economic impact includes costs off because it is in the of health care, working days lost due warm, humid air of tropical Jeffrey Bempong to sickness, days lost in education, climates where malaria decreased productivity due to brain carrying mosquitoes thrive. damage from cerebral malaria, and loss of Scientists believe mosquitoes evolved investment and tourism. about 230 million years ago in what is now Poverty is both cause and effect since South America. Malaria has been around for 50,000 years. Of the roughly 3,500 mosquito the poor do not have the financial capacities to prevent or treat the disease. During the species, approximately 40 transmit malaria.

M

Robert & Carol Forrester

Attorneys at Law

These nets can last five years and cost about $5 to $10 – less than the cost of our lunch, but much more than the $1 per month many of those impacted earn. for as much as 40 percent of public health expenditure, 30-50 percent of inpatient admissions, and up to 50 percent of outpatient visits.

What Amarillo West Rotary is Doing One of the most sobering facts about malaria is that it can be prevented simply by sleeping under an insecticide-treated mosquito net. These nets can last five years and cost about $5 to $10 – less than the cost of our lunch, but much more than the $1 per month many of those impacted earn.

Amarillo West Rotary Club, with the help of Saint Stephen’s United Methodist Church, purchased and delivered over | CONTINUED ON PAGE 112

Melvin Edes

Peterson, Farris, Pruitt, & Parker Chase Tower, Suite 1600 Amarillo, Texas 79101

late 19th and early 20th centuries, malaria was a major factor in the slow economic development of the American southern states. In some countries with a heavy malaria burden, the disease may account

Edes Meats Rosemartha Cates

6700 W. McCormick Road Amarillo, Texas 79118

806-622-0205 www.edesmeats.com

806-374-5317

www.pf-lawfirm.com PETERSON FARRIS PRUITT & PARKER

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO

108 | Spring/Summer 2010 | www.ridistrict5730.org | Special Advertising Section

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO

Youth Exchange Program

By Pei-Chun “Lydia” Shen

T

hrough Rotary’s Youth Exchange Program, I became an exchange student. Before we came here, our district gave us a lot of training on how to be a good exchange student. However, when I got here, everything I found was so different from what they said.

My first month here, I thought everything was so novel and different. How could American lives be so different from the Taiwanese people? Here, people hug and gossip a lot. However, after time passed, my mind shifted from looking at how novel everything was to making an adjustment.

The second and third months were the hardest time for me. I am learning to adjust to how fast people speak English here. In school, I don’t even know how to chat with my fellow students and our teachers. They speak too quickly. I also miss Taiwan, my

family and friends – everything back home.

When you are alone while abroad, you must do everything yourself. You do not have parents beside you to count on. You do not have friends to give you a shoulder to cry on. And you are responsible for everything you do.

These are the things I learned when I got here.

But there are still lots of fun experiences here.

I learned how to ride and control a horse. I saw how children celebrate.

We went to a haunted house – the funniest place I ever saw. And we went to a cabin during the Christmas holiday. I have never seen so much snow. My host brother and I went skiing, which was my first time to ski.

Although it is kind of hard to learn From left, Amanda Braden, Emily Braden and Lydia Shen. it – I still don’t know how to stop well Amanda and Emily are Lydia’s host family “sisters” during her stay in Amarillo.

– when I learned how to ski, I found out just how much fun it is.

And to my host sisters and brother, thank Fun experiences and difficulties, you. You have made my special exchange I think this is what the exchange year is all year more fun than ever. about. When I return to Taiwan at the end of the school year, I think I will be more Pei-Chun “Lydia” Shen is a native of independent and will know more about Taipei, Taiwan, and is attending Ascension different cultures. I have learned lots of Academy as part of Rotary International’s things here.

Youth Exchange Program.

David Norris

Wes Knapp

Paul Borchardt

Happy State Bank

Western Builders of Amarillo Inc.

Wonderland Amusement Park

700 S. Grant Amarillo, Texas 79101

2601 Dumas Drive Amarillo, Texas 79107

3423 Soncy Road, Suite 200 Amarillo, Texas 79119 www.happybank.com

806 383-3344 x112

806-376-4321

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO

www.wbamarillo.com

www.wonderlandpark.com

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO

Special Advertising Section

| www.ridistrict5730.org | Spring/Summer 2010 | 109

Rafa

By Janna Kiehl

I

magine being a young teenager, leaving Rafa came to the U.S. to learn English home for the first time to live in a foreign and to learn our way of life, the culture and country with strangers. It would take take back home with her the experience of a mature, brave and adventurous young men lifetime. While she was here she was blessed and women to make the commitment and to meet other foreign exchange students. fulfill the obligation of becoming foreign They became close having shared similar exchange students. Rotary International experiences of longing for their native homes provides this opportunity to young men and while at the same time sharing life in the women from around the globe.

U.S. Cowboy hats and country A few months ago, my music, barbeque and Texas talk husband John and I were are things we take for granted but blessed to be a part of one are exciting experiences for anyone of these student’s lives by living outside of Texas, and these hosting a young lady from young people relished in their new Brazil. We first met Rafaella found culture.

“Rafa” Bianchi at a dinner High school graduation party hosted by her first host was in June and we hosted a parents, Hank and Denise graduation party for Rafa and her Janna Kiehl Blanchard just a few days friends, including Dani (from the prior to having her come live with us. Our Philippines) and Sarah (from South Africa). first impression of Rafa was that she was a The evening was capped when Dani and quiet and intelligent young lady. Rafa moved Rafa both performed traditional dances in with us and she quickly adapted to life in native to their homelands and Sarah sang the the Kiehl home.

South African National Anthem (comprised

Beverly & Darrell Bledsoe

Herb Crowell

Bravo Music

Wagner’s Studio

7010 Canterbury Place Amarillo, Texas 79109

1921 s. Washington Amarillo, Texas 79109

806-341-7647

www.bravomusiconline.com

806-374-5942 www.wagnersphoto.com

of five different languages).

Rafa returned to Sorocaba at the end of June and we were amazed at how quickly the

The evening was capped when Dani and Rafa both performed traditional dances native to their homelands and Sarah sang the South African National Anthem. time passed. We were sad to see her go but knew she was anxious to see her family. As we had anticipated, the experience was full of surprises, laughter and new friendships. Rafa was a very interesting and mature young lady but she was also a normal teenager. When we opened our home and our hearts, John and I were the ones who gained much from the experience.

Janna Kiehl is a member of Rotary South.

Richard & Todd Gower

Gower & Company Insurance

215 W. 9th Amarillo, Texas 79101

806-373-4336 ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO-WesT

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO-WesT

110 | Spring/Summer 2010 | www.ridistrict5730.org | Special Advertising Section

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO-WesT

Proud to Be a Rotarian

By Gene Shelburne Just as any patriot might cite a dozen reasons for being proud to be an American, so I could list at least a dozen reasons why – for almost 40 years – I have been proud to be a Rotarian. All of them would be true. But the main reason I’m glad to be connected

When I look back at 40plus years of enjoyable civic involvement, I can see that in almost every opportunity I’ve been given to serve... the door opened for me because of a Rotary friendship. to Rotary is the extraordinarily fine people Rotary links me to — people who otherwise might never be part of my life.

In the summer of 1968 when I returned to Amarillo to accept the pulpit of a neighborhood church, I soon found myself isolated and lonely. When Mac McClish invited me to attend a Rotary meeting with him, I had no idea what special doors this would open for me. Soon my world expanded to include educators, bankers, attorneys, store owners, doctors and a host of other professional and business leaders. Many of these strangers soon became my trusted friends on a firstname basis.

These new friendships were a source of immense personal pleasure to me.

More important, however, they opened all manner of doors for worthwhile service. Meeting community and area leaders through Rotary strengthened my ministry.

Now I knew competent, trustworthy professionals — people with unquestioned skill and integrity — to whom I could send hurting people to find help. Making such a broad circle of friends also generated many unexpected requests for me to get involved

in exciting, valuable community projects.

When I look back at 40-plus years of enjoyable civic involvement, I can see that in almost every opportunity I’ve been given to serve — in BSA Hospice, High Plains Food Bank, United Way, BSA Foundation and

Gene Shelburne

a dozen others — the door opened for me because of a Rotary friendship.

At its core, Rotary is people, good people – with hearts committed to doing good for others.

Gene Shelburne is a member of Amarillo West Rotary Club.

Dale Elliott

Scott Bentley

John Watson

Allstate Security

First United Bank

Jewelry Doctors

3433 Plains Blvd.

Amarillo, Texas 79102

PO Box 50010 Amarillo, Texas 79159

3363 A Bell street Amarillo, Texas 79106

806-677-2060

806-354-3200 • 806-354-3223 (f) www.allstatesecurity.com

www.firstunited.net

806-351-0264 806-584-2044 (c)

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO-WesT

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO-WesT

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO-WesT

Special Advertising Section

| www.ridistrict5730.org | Spring/Summer 2010 | 111

Opportunity to Serve

By Zack Wilson

H

ow do you know when a life has been changed? Does someone come to you and tell you their testimony? Can someone even put this into words? Rather, the sign of a changed life is shown through expressionless yet powerful gestures: a smile on a child’s face as they receive a warm meal or the joy in a child’s step when receiving a special gift. I believe anyone can impact a life in a special way. By giving service above self, a person can truly impact the world around them (as well as his own). This is why I am a Rotarian.

Being in the Zack Wilson presence of such people whose will to serve those around them is invigorating. Seeing community leaders and members alike sharing the motivation of service to others drew me to Rotary. This civic organization’s secret to service: let’s not wait one minute

to help someone today. I believe Anne Frank said it best: “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.”

I am very proud to be a Rotarian and to see a worldwide organization so committed to touching people’s lives – from far away lands to our own neighborhoods. The ideals of Rotary did not cease at the end of weekly meetings. The joy of service stretches through the workplace and to household. Members are active in their families, neighborhoods and community gatherings. Above all, I am humbled to see that members believe service coupled with joining together can solve anything.

Whether it is fighting for a cure for polio, volunteering time during the day or helping to feed those in need, Rotarians truly exhibit “Service Above Self.”

This is why I am Rotarian.

Zack Wilson is immediate past president of Amarillo East Rotary.

Mosquito Net...

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 108

100 nets for children in a village in Accra, Ghana in July 2009. This was an impromptu project put together after hearing a program put on by Readership WTAMU essay contest students. These students won a contest which flew them to Zambia where they performed many service projects, one of which was providing mosquito nets to families. We are currently looking for community and international partners to assist with our plans for a much larger project in 2010.

We would like to deliver a minimum of 2,000 nets to children in Ghana.

There are matching grants available that can make the impact of our donations go much farther than our individual contributions.

Jeffrey Bempong is a member of Amarillo West Rotary Club.

Impact of Malaria Internationally Source: Wikipedia

Richard Constancio

Victor Glenn, CPA

Richard L. Hanna

Shiver-Megert & Associates

Victor B. Glenn, Certified Public Accountant

Lynch, Hanna & Boyd, PLLC

102 East 9th Ave., Suite 200 Amarillo, Texas 79101

806-372-5662

smaae@amaonline.com

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO-WEST

2700 S. Western, Suite 600 Amarillo, Texas 79109

500 S. Taylor, LB-222 Amarillo, Texas 79101

806-379-6683 806-379-8504 (f)

806-358-8997 806-352-8771 (f)

rhanna@amaonline.com

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO-SOUTH

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO-SOUTH

112 | Spring/Summer 2010 | www.ridistrict5730.org | Special Advertising Section

Four Questions

M

any people have heard about Rotary or they might have heard about their father’s Rotary Club but if they really knew about Rotary, they would already be a member. On the local level, Rotary is a group of civic organizations consisting of men and women who hold weekly meetings to share fellowship and the common goal to do something better for the Amarillo community at large.

Rotary is a worldwide organization consisting of more than 1.2 million business, professional and community leaders.

Rotarians provide humanitarian service, encourage ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. There are 33,000 clubs in more than 200 countries.

The world’s first service club, the Rotary Club of Chicago, was formed in 1905 by Paul Harris, an attorney who wished to capture in a professional club the same friendly spirit he felt in the small towns of his youth. The Rotary name derived from the early practice of rotating meetings among members’ offices. In 1932, Rotarian Herbert Taylor created “The Four Way Test,” a code of ethics adopted 11 years

By William Boyce

later that asks the following questions: “Is it projects including the YMCA Rotary Park the TRUTH? Is it FAIR to all concerned? project, annual tree planting performed Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER in partnership with the AISD, volunteer FRIENDSHIPS? Will it be BENEFICIAL efforts with the High Plains Food Bank, to all concerned?” assisting the Salvation Army at Christmas, These ideals may sound great but and participating in the presentation of ultimately how does it impact my life and personalized school books made by local why did I join Rotary? I joined the Amarillo Rotarians to AISD kindergartners.

West Rotary Club in 1996 We have the opportunity under the classification to serve others in ways “Insurance Casualty.” My that otherwise could not father and two of my brothers be accomplished. Rotary is are members of the Rotary truly an international service Club of Amarillo. Not only organization and due to the am I connected with my family fact that Rotary does not have members in Amarillo, but I am religious or political affiliations, Rotary has the ability to cross also connected with another many international borders. brother in San Antonio and As a result of a Rotarian’s big two cousins in Waco through idea in 1985 to eradicate polio Rotary. I have been able to worldwide, Rotary has worked to develop personal friendships William Boyce make this idea a success. There with the other members of the are still borders to cross but this single big Amarillo West Rotary Club. idea has led to a better world for all.

I was able to move through our club’s ladder of officer positions and served as president in 2007-2008. By serving in these various leadership capacities, I can attest to William Boyce is a member of Amarillo the impact made by our club’s many service West Rotary Club.

Ron Knoy

Joe Street

Ron Knoy Agency

Street Toyota-Scion

2415 Line Ave. Amarillo, Texas 79106

806-373-2050 806-373-2037 (f)

Mike Connor, West Club; Sheryl Cook, East Club; Gary Mitchell, Amarillo Club

4500 Soncy Amarillo, Texas 79119

Connor, McMillon, Mitchell & Shennum, PLLC

806-355-9846 • 806-352-4604

801 S. Fillmore, Suite 600 Amarillo, Texas 79101

www.street-toyota.com

806-373-6661 • 806-372-1237 (f)

rknoy@sbcglobal.net

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO-SOUTH

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO-SOUTH Special Advertising Section

ROTARY CLUB OF AMARILLO-EAST

| www.ridistrict5730.org | Spring/Summer 2010 | 113

It’s Better to Give

By Richard Hanna

M

y first experience with Rotary was similar to a lot of our members.

When I was a young lawyer, one of the senior partners in the law firm that I was associated with invited me to go with him to his rotary club’s lunch meeting. As you may know, when your senior partner invites you to lunch, you go to lunch. At the meeting, I recognized that a majority of the members were successful business owners and leaders in the community, and I quickly grasped the fact that it would be beneficial not only to myself, but also my professional career to be associated with Rotary. In addition, the Rotary motto “Service Above Self” and the fact that Rotary encouraged all of its members to adopt and abide by the Four Way Test went hand in hand with the ethical standards that I had taken with my oath when I was sworn in as a lawyer.

...when individuals are committed to doing what is right, the world is a much better place.

Particularly impressive was the fact that Rotarians were undertaking service projects and no one was clamoring for attention or self-laudatory goals but simply the pure joy of doing the job, taking responsibility and accountability. Because of the selfless attitude that is adopted through the Rotary motto, I accepted the club’s invitation to become a member. I found the motto consistent with

my own beliefs and faith – that it is better to give than to receive, each person should take responsibility for their actions and our community is improved when we help the less fortunate.

Since my membership in Rotary, Rotary International has taken on the task of ridding the world of polio and hunger.

At the same time, Rotary has strongly emphasized that its true strength is maintained by each individual member and each individual club.

Rotary is only as strong as the commitment of the individual to the motto, the observance of the Four Way Test, and a belief that it is better to give than receive. From that viewpoint, I have had the privilege of being able to share the joy of seeing a kindergarten student receive their first book to keep for their very own, seeing a teenager understand what it means to be a Rotarian and leader after completing a week at Camp RYLA with the eagerness to pass that along to others, and seeing the joy on a parent’s face when, for the first time, their child is able to spend a week at our Rotary Diabetic Camp.

We sometimes bemoan the failures in our youth, but when you participate in Camp RYLA, a mentoring program to high school students and a scholarship program that

provides funding to a deserving student to go to college, or visit with a foreign exchange student, you find that our youth are deeply involved and have deep feelings about what is going on in our world today.

Consequently, our future is much brighter than the pundits gives them credit for

Richard Hanna

and Rotary has provided a well grounded, guiding force.

But for Rotary, I would not have been able to fully appreciate these experiences or have the knowledge and understanding that when individuals are committed to doing what is right, the world is a much better place.

Richard Hanna is an Amarillo lawyer and a member of Amarillo South Rotary Club.

Object of Rotary The object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and, in particular, to encourage and foster: 1. The development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service.

2. High ethical standards in business and professions, the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations, and the dignifying 114 | Spring/Summer 2010 | www.ridistrict5730.org | Special Advertising Section

of each Rotarian of their occupation as an opportunity to service society.

3. The application of the idea of service by every Rotarian to their personal, business and community life.

4. The advancement of international understanding, good will and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service.

april 2010 • amarillomagonline.com • Amarillo Magazine

115

photo provided by the Amarillo Public Library archives

april

Black Sunday In the midst of a severe drought stretching across the entire country, during a time when the nation’s economy was already down, the High Plains were hit with a dust storm so strong that April 14, 1935, was dubbed “Black Sunday.”

The daylight faded to dark as the dirt and dust blew across the barren Panhandle. The fine soil created a blizzard effect and it was so thick that people reported being unable to see more than five feet in front of them.

116 Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION CREATED BY AMARILLO GLOBE-NEWS CUSTOM PUBLISHING

Four Seasons Sunrooms

M

Photos by Donna Alexander Photography

Four Seasons Sunrooms (806) 622-8991 www.amarillosunrooms.com Michael Phillips

ichael Phillips is wearing a lot of hats and putting in 12 to 15 hour days. But that is what you’ve got to do to establish a new business.

Phillips has been a partner in Four Seasons Sunrooms in Oklahoma City for over 23 years. When Brian Watson, owner of Four Seasons Sunrooms in Amarillo, passed away in August, Phillips and his crews finished some of Watson’s jobs that were in progress. He eventually took over the Amarillo office.

“I am currently running leads myself and managing the construction, also. I can do CAD drawings and designs of the proposed projects for the customer,” Phillips says. “The economy is still strong here in the Panhandle area

and the interest in our products has exceeded our expectations.”

Phillips hopes to put his 23 years of experience to work for the people in the Amarillo area.

“We have designed and installed some very unique and fun projects over the years. One of our local sunrooms is featured in these pictures. I enjoy helping people realize their dreams,” Phillips says. “We’re building a new showroom at 6513 Storage Drive, south of Hillside St. in Western Business Park and we invite everyone to come out and see it. Everybody in Amarillo has been great. It’s a handshake community and we have been very pleased with the response and welcome we’ve received.

We just want to treat people the way we want to be treated.”

117

local exposure Michael Schumacher / Amarillo Globe-News

It’s a Fine Day for a Drive Warmer weather is coming, which means the Palo Duro Canyon State Park is preparing for a steady influx of campers from near and far to enjoy the trails, sites and bright starry nights. The wildflowers are beginning to bloom and families of mule deer are grazing for fresh grass. With a variety of campsites available, the park provides an ideal retreat for anyone seeking an authentic West Texas outdoor experience.

Do you have a photo to share? Upload your “Local Exposure” shots to our Flickr® group for consideration. flickr.com/groups/amarillomagazine 118 Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

spotlight

Dr. Nick Gerlich Husband, father, professor, bike enthusiast

I

n Dr. Nick Gerlich’s office at West Texas A&M University, you will find the obvious furnishings that tell you you’re in the office of a professor: shelves of academic books, a myriad of personal collectibles, and a nameplate on the desk. But those aren’t the things you notice first. Instead, most likely, you’ll notice the bike.

“Biking is a metaphor for my freedom,” says the marketing professor on a foggy morning at WT. “I can go faster on my bike than if I was paddling or running.”

Nick’s love affair with biking began in the early 80s and he even met his wife, Becky, on a spring break biking trip in1984. The Gerlichs married in 1986 and have two daughters, Becky and Bailee. am

The greatest piece of advice I’ve ever received is…

My undergrad Stats professor told me I was Type A and would be dead by 30 if I didn’t slow down. I never took his advice, but I still try to remind myself of it now and then. He clearly was wrong. I am now 30 for the 21st time.

We want to know: My friends and family call me… a hoarder. Just don’t tell A&E. My favorite meal to make from scratch is… Are you kidding?

We have restaurants for a reason.

One of my favorite childhood toys was… my Ranger bicycle. Not a toy, but my means of transportation around Chicago’s south suburbs.

If I were a character in a book, I would be… Donald Miller in “Through Painted Deserts.”

He took the guy trip I wish I had taken.

You may be surprised to know that I… also had an undergrad major in Religious Studies.

My guilty pleasure is… Fat Tire Ale (if loving this is wrong, I don’t want to be right).

My favorite bad-for-me-food is… fried pickles. Oooh baby.

The most unique place I’ve ever traveled to is…

Chichicastenango, Guatemala.

Want more? For the full story on Dr. Nick Gerlich, log on to amarillomagonline.com 120 Amarillo Magazine • amarillomagonline.com • april 2010

PHOTO BY JEFF HARBIN, LIFE OF RILEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Precious Cargo

2 0 1 0 CHE V Y TRAV ERSE

• A CONSUMERS DIGEST BEST BUY • MORE CARGO SPACE THAN ANY COMPETITOR

CHEVROLET

CADILLAC

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