Amarillo Magazine | Face of Amarillo 2020

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FACES of

AMARILLO 2020

This year’s pandemic and resulting business closures have challenged local business’ ability to not only keep doors open, but also their ability to change how they deal with their clients. Amarillo’s stalwart citizens have met that challenge head on.

No one understands the local market better than the professionals that do business in Amarillo every day. Whether you’re new to town, or you simply find yourself in need of a new product or service, who should you call?

Flip through our Faces of Amarillo profiles, and meet the individuals behind the companies that make Amarillo a great place to live. From construction and education to insurance and mortgage advice, these are the folks you can turn to when you need help. And now, more than ever, these longstanding businesses need our support and patronage.

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BANKING

Amarillo National Bank

410 S. Taylor St. | 378.8000 | anb.com

Amarillo National Bank has been meeting the financial needs of Amarillo residents since 1892. Other banks have closed, moved away or sold, but ANB has proven that it is here to stay.

A vital part of Amarillo’s banking landscape, ANB employs more than 600 locals in its Commercial and Personal Banking, Loan and Wealth Management Departments, and offers locally serviced credit/debit cards and a variety of banking services.

ANB employees are the lifeblood of the organization, talented locals dedicated to unparalleled customer service and a commitment to the community. You’ll find ANB employees volunteering across the city. ANB gives back more than $2 million a year to local nonprofits and organizations. Amarillo always comes before bank.

The family-owned bank doesn’t answer to outside shareholders, which frees it to make decisions that put its customers and community first. As Amarillo continues to grow, ANB will continue to invest in its employees, customers and city.

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MORTGAGE LOANS Amarillo National Bank

2401 Coulter St. | 378.8000 | anb.com

As the largest mortgage provider and servicer in the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo National Bank offers competitive interest rates, a wide array of homebuyer programs, and fast closing options. The family-owned bank has been originating home loans for more than 40 years.

With 65 local employees, ANB services its conventional loans locally, and has been voted Amarillo’s Best Mortgage Company every year since 2005.

Online lenders simply cannot compete with ANB’s knowledge of the local market and top-notch customer service. Quick, no-hassle loan approvals ensures a no-headaches experience, unlike other mortgage lenders.

A trusted name in the banking industry, ANB offers an easy-to-use online application for loan approvals. Plans for the future include expanding this process to include electronic closings, which means borrowers will not have to physically go to a title company. They will be able to electronically sign their loan documents in the convenience of their own home.

ANB is committed to the community, giving more than $2 million a year to local nonprofits and organizations. ANB employees volunteer across the city.

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NEW HOMES

Betenbough Homes

8780 Heritage Hills Parkway | 806.513.6338 betenbough.com

Twenty-eight years ago, Ron and Rick Betenbough realized there was a growing need to deliver quality homes at the most competitive price. Betenbough Homes expanded into the Amarillo area five years ago, and has been building quality, affordable homes for families across West Texas ever since.

Betenbough Homes builds high-quality, affordable new homes for first-time and move-up home buyers. Its homes include luxury brands such as Moen and Samsung. Buying a new home is one of the most important investments a family will ever make, but the value of that investment is dependent on the home you choose. Betenbough Homes has developed efficient and engineered building processes to offer home buyers the highest-quality home at the most affordable price, creating a path to homeownership with less of the stress and more of the memories.

Betenbough Homes’ people-first culture is what makes it unique. The company believes that when you put your people first, they will go above and beyond to serve others, ultimately allowing them to positively impact home buyers, business partners and the community. In the past year, the company has given a total of $24,750 to local Amarillo organizations.

Betenbough Homes stays committed to the Amarillo community and will continue to offer the opportunity to invest in more home for less money.

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ENERGY

Grammer Land & Exploration Corp.

Grammer Law Group, P.C. 881.5404 grammerland.com Established 17 years ago, Grammer Land and Grammer Law Group are composed of five landmen, with a legal staff of four attorneys. Originally incorporated to serve primarily the oil industry, Grammer now finds itself serving a wide range of energy companies from public utilities, solar and wind farm developers, financial lenders and agricultural producers.

Grammer Land & Exploration Corp. handles land-related issues, such as examination of mineral ownership, oil and gas lease negotiations, pipeline and transmission right-ofway, and wind and solar lease acquisitions, with around 48,000 acres under lease, 200 miles of transmission and just over 1,000 megawatts of solar under development in three states.

Grammer Law Group, P.C., handles the legal representation of companies involved in mergers and acquisitions, energy transactions and energy finance law in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Colorado.

The corporations’ hard-won success is due, says landman and owner Jonathan Grammer, to his mother. His faith-based upbringing, the perseverance she modeled, and an emphasis on the importance of understanding the land and the way people live upon it has been essential to achieving his goals. Clients rely on Grammer Land and Grammer Law Group for its reliability and excellent service, day or night.

Grammer Land and Grammer Law Group are dedicated to the community and give back through getting involved to implement positive change in the local economy and community. With respect to the energy industry’s impact on the community, the group stays focused on remaining integral, primarily in legislative initiatives.

Energy in Texas and throughout the Southwestern United States will remain essential and Grammer intends to avail itself of the benefits stemming from every section of the energy market, in order to harness as much energy as possible.

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COLLEGE PREP EDUCATION Ascension Academy

9301 Ascension Parkway | 342.0515 | ascensionacademy.org

Ascension Academy welcomed its 21st group of scholars, artists, athletes and leaders for the 2020-2021 school year in August. The students were eager to return to campus to continue their college preparatory education, dive back into their extracurricular activities, and return to athletics.

Katy Engler, director of admission and financial aid added, “The value of our students and teachers in the classroom together is significant for personal and academic growth. As such, this was a priority for our re-open plan to welcome our new and returning students. Under the leadership of our new Head of School, Tim Oditt, we opened our doors for in-person instruction on Aug. 17.

Our school community has adjusted well to the health and safety protocols, and we are looking forward to another fantastic year for our students.”

Earlier this year, Ascension Academy became 1 of only 14 schools in the state of Texas to be accepted as a Cum Laude Society school.

The Cum Laude Society, which numbers 383 chapters worldwide, honors the scholastic achievement of secondary school students. To be welcomed into this exceptional company of schools, Ascension had to pass through an application process in which the academic strength of curriculum, the scholarly qualifications of the faculty, and the academic performances of recent graduates were examined and 34

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judged to meet the Cum Laude Society’s rigorous standards. The Cum Laude Society represents college preparatory academies in 41 states, Canada, England, France, Spain, the Philippines, and Puerto Rico.

“Being accepted to the Cum Laude Society is a distinct honor for Ascension Academy. It is a testament to the high quality of our college preparatory education and the dedication of our faculty.

We are pleased to recognize the first group of graduates who were inducted into the society,” said Tim Oditt, head of school at Ascension.

Cum Laude students represent the top 20% of their graduating class in addition to Cum Laude scholastic qualifications. The 2020 graduating class of 13 saw the first three students earn the prestigious honor of induction into Ascension Academy’s Cum Laude chapter. The valedictorian and two salutatorians are attending Stanford, Princeton, and Texas A&M University. All three students attended Ascension Academy for their middle school and high school careers.

Serving grades six through 12, Ascension Academy provides an exemplary college preparatory education in a challenging, faithaffirming environment to maximize the potential of every student.

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CARPET CLEANING AND RESTORATION Amarillo Steamway

2700 Amarillo Blvd. West | 373.4592 | amarillosteamway.com

Years in Business: Founded in 1968 by Howard and Carol Richey, now operated by their daughter and husband, Melody and Eddie Willis, 52 years and still growing.

What is your background? As a family-owned business, we have more than 100 years of combined experience with master certification and accountability to back it up.

What services or products do you offer? Today more than ever before, a clean environment is crucial to provide a sanitized home and workspace. Our slogan says it all: “The cleanest clean you have ever seen.”

We have always been a leader in our industry offering a Premiere Cleaning and Restoration service. Carpet, upholstery, tile and grout, and area cleaning (oriental, specialty and skins). We also

offer water damage service.

To what do you attribute your success? Our customers are our priority. They are the most important part. We have some families that are beginning their fourth generation. We have always treated customers the way we want to be treated and cleaned every job the way we would want ours cleaned.

Why do your customers select you over your competitors?

Our service is Second to None. Customers are not just a job.

Our goal is to provide the best possible experience and build a lasting relationship.

What are your plans for the future? 2020 will include combined growth and thankfulness; we will be setting goals for the next 50 years.

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FINE JEWELRY Barnes Jewelry

100 Westgate Parkway West | 355.9874 | barnesjewelry.com

Barnes Jewelry opened its doors 64 years ago, and continues its tradition of excellence in Amarillo under the leadership of owner Don Adams. Barnes offers the expertise of on-site jewelers, a stunning inventory, and custom jewelry and repair, which include CAD, casting, setting and polishing.

Step inside Barnes Jewelry’s inviting location near Westgate Mall and you’ll receive an enthusiastic greeting from one of its 10 employees (and maybe even the resident canine greeter). Barnes’ wide selection of jewelry includes well-known brands, such as Forevermark, TAG Heuer, John Hardy, Konstantino, Jude Francis, Charles Krypell and many more.

As part of the Amarillo community, Barnes is committed to giving back. From donations and sponsorships of local fundraisers to pet adoption events, Barnes is a familiar presence at events throughout the city. Recently, the jeweler has partnered with the displaced artists from Sunset Center’s beloved First Friday Art Walk. Twenty-one artists now show their work at Barnes. Experience local art, live music and more at the new First Friday Art Walk at Barnes Jewelry.

“Celebrate Your Moments” at Barnes, as you choose a timeless piece of jewelry to commemorate life’s most precious memories. The staff at Barnes aims to maintain lasting relationships with each client, getting to know them and their unique stories.

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GLASS

Glass Doctor of Amarillo

2515 Britain Drive | 576.3287 | glassdoctor.com/amarillo

Family-owned businesses are one of the city’s claims to fame. Family-owned Wayne’s Quality Auto Glass opened in 1986, and that same family transitioned to the Glass Doctor franchise in 2006. Customers can count on the same reliable care and friendly service – the same care they’ve received for the past 34 years.

Glass Doctor of Amarillo employs 15 people in two locations in order to offer complete glass service for home and auto. From window film, headlight restoration, and rock chip repair to tabletops, scratch removal, windshield recalibration, and shower doors, the professionals at Glass Doctor can handle the full spectrum.

Glass Doctor is still going strong thanks to its commitment to exceeding customers’ expectations in every job.

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INSURANCE Leslie Massey

2700 S. Western St., Suite 700 | 352.7388 | agents.farmers.com/mmassey

After 11 years in the insurance industry, Agent Leslie Massey continues to go above and beyond when it comes to touching the heart of the city. As the first Farmers Agency to be selected from the district to become a member of the Presidents Council, Leslie and her staff have shown a commitment to excellence in caring for each and every client.

Each team member at the Leslie Massey Agency dedicates time and energy to a variety of local nonprofits, including United Way of Amarillo and Canyon where Leslie is the Campaign-Co Chair for 2020. The agency strives to make a positive impact throughout the city, beginning with its clients and continuing through each relationship built on trust and the highest level of service.

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DOG GROOMING Need Us Bark Us

3269 Commerce St. | 356.0579 | needusbarkus.net

Need Us Bark Us owner Charlotte Braddock has spent the past 35 years in the grooming industry, dedicating her career to excellent care, honesty and compassion. NUBU employs six groomers, five bathers, two receptionists, and a housekeeper to ensure that every dog receives the ultimate grooming experience.

In a competitive industry, which factors attribute to Need Us Bark Us’ success? Charlotte is quick to give credit to her employees, her husband, and a commitment to continuing education and a higher standard of care. The salon is devoted to the community and gives back through donations of merchandise, services and gift bags to various organizations for fundraising events. One day, Charlotte hopes to add a dog photography studio to her long list of services.

Need Us Bark Us’ loyal clients go back as far as 30 years due to NUBU’s outstanding offerings, which include full-service grooming, spa treatments, a pet boutique, and a line of CBD oils and treats for anxious pets. It’s clear that the staff doesn’t look at grooming as just a job; it’s their passion to provide tender loving care to the area’s pets.

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HEARING HEALTH Ormson Hearing Clinic

5501 SW Ninth Ave. | 468.4343 ormsonhearing.com

After 43 years in Amarillo, Dr. Maegan Laughlin has taken over the ownership of Ormson, continuing a legacy built upon honesty, integrity, and reliable advice when it comes to solutions for hearing loss or tinnitus. Originally from Sunray, Texas, Dr. Laughlin has spent seven years serving the Amarillo community in both pediatric and adult hearing and balance disorders after graduating from Texas Tech University with a Doctorate in Audiology, and her clinical residency serving the nation’s veterans at the Mountain Home VA Medical Center in Johnson City, Tennessee.

The specialized clinic provides diagnostic testing and treatment of the adult and pediatric hearing population in the Amarillo area with four doctors of audiology. Hearing aids are a big part of the practice, and Ormson also serves the city’s industrial communities, veterans and schools. Patients know they aren’t simply a “sales opportunity.” Ormson is committed to delivering the best care for every patient. It’s no surprise, then, that the clinic thrives from its large “word-of-mouth” referral system at both the physician and patient level.

As the primary health care provider for pediatric hearing loss, the staff makes it a priority to give back to local pediatric organizations like Children’s Miracle Network, The Buddy Walk, and AISD, providing hearing health care in the classroom as well as in the clinic. Ormson also works closely with organizations in the community that help provide services for senior citizens, like Panhandle Independent Living.

Dr. Laughlin is committed to continuing the homegrown principles and methods created by Dr. Ormson for the members of the community, building on that foundation while adding today’s newest diagnostic and treatment methods.

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LAW

Underwood Law Firm

500 S. Taylor St. | 376.5613 | uwlaw.com

Years in business: 108 years. We were founded in 1912 and still going strong!

Company size: 41 lawyers and 80 total employees What is your background? Underwood has been providing legal services for Texas clients since 1912. Underwood is considered Amarillo’s “go-to” law firm, and its attorneys have long been leaders in all facets of community life in Amarillo and its other Texas locations.

With offices in Amarillo, Austin, Fort Worth, Lubbock, and Pampa, Underwood’s locations cover a unique North, West, and Central Texas footprint.

What services or products do you offer? Underwood is a fullservice law firm representing individuals and companies in multiple practice areas, such as Agriculture, Banking, Bankruptcy & Creditors’ Rights, Business & Corporate, Construction, Employment, Estate Planning & Probate, Family Matters, Health Care, Immigration, Intellectual Property, Litigation, Municipal, Public Education, Public Finance, Real Estate, Renewable Energy and Tax. To what do you attribute your success? Underwood’s success can be directly attributed to the relentless determination of its lawyers

and staff to advocate for its clients’ best legal interests. Underwood considers the representation of its clients to be a privilege and strives to perform its services in a manner that fosters long-lasting relationships with them.

How does your company give back to the community?

Underwood has always promoted a culture of “giving back.” Our attorneys have historically served on local and national boards of various nonprofit agencies, and we donate thousands of dollars each year to local organizations. “Time, talent, and treasure” is more than just a saying at Underwood – it’s how we roll!

Why do your customers select you over your competitors? In addition to our experience, we know that legal services are about relationships. We take the time to build and foster those relationships, while at the same time taking the time and energy to stay current on all areas of law in which we practice.

What are your plans for the future? To continue to adapt in this ever-changing world so we can serve our clients across the State of Texas for generations to come.

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HOME DECOR The Urban Giraffe

4000 SW 51st Ave. | 418.8962 | theurbangiraffe.com

For the past seven years, The Urban Giraffe has built a reputation of top-notch customer service, while offering a dazzling array of the latest in home decor to fit any budget.

The store’s welcoming environment offers inspiration at every turn. Lose yourself in Urban Giraffe’s 9,000-square-foot showroom, which includes everything needed to create your own personal masterpiece.

As locals have made the important shift to spending more time at home over the past few months, there’s no better time to update your space. Urban Giraffe’s talented staff can help you choose just the right furniture, mirrors and accessories to create a space you can treasure.

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PERSONAL INJURY LAW Wood Law Firm

610 SW 11th Ave. | 372.9663 | woodlawfirm-tx.com

Years in business: 31 years combined experience Company size: Two lawyers and four staff members What is your background? Channy: BS, Ag.Eco, ’89, JD, ’94 from Texas Tech; Leslie: BA, ’06 from Sam Houston State, JD, ’13 from Baylor What services or products do you offer? We fight for the good guys. Our practice is devoted to representing people who are victims of wrongful actions of others. We won’t represent or defend wrongdoers.

To what do you attribute your success? The support of my family, humility, and extending grace, dignity and respect to my clients as well as my adversaries.

How does your company give back to the community? We are a long-time supporter of the High Plains Children’s Home. We also sponsor charitable organizations such as Will Rogers Range Riders, Amarillo Junior League, Amarillo College educational summer

programs, and youth sporting activities.

What is unique about your business? We work for people who can’t afford to hire a lawyer. We only get paid if we can attain a successful resolution of our client’s legal issue. That is our guarantee to our clients.

Why do your customers select you over your competitors? We are local, hometown lawyers helping local people. We care about our clients; they become a part of our family.

What are your plans for the future? We hope to continue to build upon the foundation of our past successes and relationships by adhering to the principles of honesty, integrity and perseverance.

What made you choose Amarillo? We enjoy the rich Western heritage of Texas and the people who chose to make this their home. Here in the Panhandle, principals of honesty, fairness, responsibility, compassion and hard work are still a way of life.

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