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TH E CANYON CHAMBER OF COMM ERCE SU PPORTS LOCAL BUSIN ESS BY PROMOTING ECONOMIC G ROWTH, PROVIDING N ETWORKING OPPORTU NITIES, COMMU NITY EVE NTS, AN D ADVOCATING FOR BUSIN ESS-FRIE N DLY POLICIES. IF YO U ARE NOT A M E MBER, WE WO U LD LOVE TO INVITE YO U TO J OIN AN D BECOM E INVOLVED AN D ACTIVE TH E IN TH E CANYON COMMU NITY.
IN DEPE N DE NCE DAY CELEBRATION
cH RISTMAS IN CANYON
cANYON cHAMBER gOLF cLASSIC
FROM THE CITY MANAGER: WELCOME TO CANYON
As City Manager, I am excited to personally welcome you to the City of Canyon. I hope you find your home here and come to love this city as much as I do. Since you’re new here, I thought I’d take a moment to share with you all the great things Canyon has to offer:
Canyon’s historic Downtown Square is the heart of the town, and home to a wide range of amazing shops, restaurants, and events. Our Chamber of Commerce hosts signature events throughout the year, including one of the largest 4th of July celebrations in the state. Thousands of visitors come to experience the concert, Fair on the Square, parade, and dazzling firework show. There’s something for everyone on the Square, from farmers’ markets to Canyon Main Street’s summer concerts and Halloween Spooktacular. Make sure not to miss the sparkling Christmas Light Parade and tree lighting during the holiday season.
The City offers many things to do for all ages. The Canyon Area Library is a community hub that hosts free, public
events for residents. You can check out more than just books there, including seeds, art and baking supplies, and audiobooks and movies. Palo Duro Creek
Joe Price
Golf Course is an 18-hole regulation course, that puts on several tournaments throughout the year and is the most played golf course in the region. During the hot Texas summer, the Canyon Aqua Park is a great place to cool down with discounted annual memberships for Canyon residents.
There are a number of beautiful parks throughout the city that are perfect for walking, biking, picnicking and enjoying nature. One of our parks is Canyon Trails at Buffalo Hills, with over five miles of trails that serve a range of outdoor enthusiasts from casual hikers to experienced mountain bikers. Located in Conner Park, The Kylie Hiner Memorial Playground will be the first fully ADA accessible playground in Randall County.
Families often move to Canyon because of the top-rated Canyon Independent School District (CISD), and for good reason given its impressive academics and extracurricular program. Canyon ISD offers the opportunities of a large school district, while maintaining a small community connection.
We are so proud of our namesake, Palo Duro Canyon, which is the nation’s second-largest canyon. Just east of town, PDC is open all year and we are blessed to have it in our backyard. With unmatched beauty, iconic hiking trails, camping facilities, and the TEXAS Outdoor Musical in the
summer, there’s always a reason to visit the canyon. When you’re not at Texas’ most visited state park, Canyon is also home to the state’s largest historical museum. I encourage you to visit the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum for events and exhibits, conveniently located on the campus of West Texas A&M University.
It’s hard to miss WT in the middle of Canyon, and you won’t want to. The university’s stunning campus is open to the public, and there’s plenty to do throughout the year. In the fall, visitors can tailgate on campus and then walk to the state-of-the-art football stadium to cheer on the Buffaloes. A city-favorite is the WTAMU homecoming parade where student organizations and local businesses compete for the best float. Sporting events happen all year-round and the Fine Arts Center on campus features a range of shows.
In case you can’t tell, we’re so excited to have you here! Canyon is a wonderful place to live, work, and play and we are so happy you chose our little piece of the Texas Panhandle to call home.
Every day is a good day in Canyon!
129 YEARS THE CANYON NEWS CELEBRATES OF PUBLISHING
The Canyon News has a well-founded history of newspaper publication in Randall County. A phrase “The Voice of Randall County” can be applied beginning in 1889, when John Wesley Engell began The Canyon City Echo. Between 1889 and 1896, The Canyon City Echo was renamed The Headlight, followed by the Battleship.
In 1896, Mrs. R.W. Morgan, started a publication of The Stayer. From that date, The Canyon News traces its name in one form or another. This year is a celebration of 129 years.
One of the unique characteristics of The Canyon News is that in 128 years there have only been eight owners. The Hearst Corporation purchased The Canyon News in May, 2007 and remains the current owner.
Providing readers of Canyon and outlying communities with up-to-date news and sports is a primary goal of The Canyon News. The staff is committed to providing a quality publication. Tim Ritter is the managing editor. Katelyn Martinez is the Multimedia Marketing
Under Ritter’s leadership, The Canyon News has received the General Excellence Award four out of the past seven years.
The Canyon News is published on Wednesday and Saturday. Numerous awards have been received from the Panhandle Press Association and Texas Press Association through the years.
This past July, The Canyon News collected 21 awards from the PPA contest and managing editor Tim Ritter was appointed the PPA President for 2024-2025. The PPA Convention will be held in Amarillo this summer.
In addition to the news, sports, lifestyles and obituaries, The Canyon News also publishes special sections throughout the year. Some of those are: January - Spring WTAMU Edition and Progress Edition; February - Spring Bridal; March - Spring Sports Madness; May
- Discover Canyon, High School graduation section; June - Spring Sports Wrapup; JulyReader’s Choice; August - Fall Get Buff Edition and Fall Sports Preview; October - Car Care Edition; November - Hoop Madness and Christmas Gift Guide; December - Christmas Greetings Edition.
Along with the printed edition, The Canyon News has an informative website, www. canyonnews.com. Facebook and Twitter are also locations where readers can find news updates.
For subscription information, call 6557121. The Canyon News is located at 1500 5th Ave. Business hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday – Friday.
CITY OF
With the combination of a small-town feel and city conveniences, Canyon invites you to become a part of the community.
As of the recent census, 17,002 people live in Canyon, and Randall County’s population stands at 152,277. Canyon is officially located 14 miles south of Amarillo and 107 miles north of Lubbock, and Palo Duro Canyon, for which the city is named, is located about 12 miles from Canyon.
The first wave of settlers arrived to Canyon in 1887 with L.G. Connor. Known as Canyon City until 1911, the city was selected as the county seat for Randall County in 1889 and officially incorporated in 1906. After
We think you’ll enjoy Canyon’s unique lifestyle and soon come to think of the city as home.
Connor donated land for the site, West Texas A&M University, then known as West Texas State Normal College and later as West Texas State University, opened in 1910.
The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum opened its doors in 1933 following fundraising efforts from Dr. Heidi Anderson, the Panhandle-Plains Historical Society and the community.
Through the efforts of the Civilian Conservation Corps, Palo Duro Canyon State Park then opened in 1934.
A newspaper has served Canyon since 1896, and it has been known as The Canyon News since 1920.
Residents of Canyon value and appreciate the friendly environment here, and West Texas A&M University plays an important role in the community. Canyon springs to life in the fall with the return of students and the
CANYON
arrival of new students coming to WTAMU for the first time.
We think you’ll enjoy Canyon’s unique lifestyle and soon come to think of the city as home. During your time at WTAMU, we look forward to getting to know you, and we hope GET BUFF helps you to feel more comfortable in Canyon and learn more about your new community.
Many businesses in Canyon hold customer service as their top priority, and these shops and stores can provide almost all the goods and services you need. For anything else you may want, Amarillo offers many more options just a few miles down the road.
As you learn and grow at WTAMU, we hope you create lasting memories both inside and outside the classroom. You will have the opportunity to gain new skills, become a leader in organizations on campus, involve yourself with the community, and mold yourself into the person you will be.
Recognized for its academic excellence and affordability, life at WTAMU will provide you with a quality education, friends and the stories that you may one day tell your grandchildren.
Your university and the Canyon community is here to support you — enjoy the start of the rest of your life.
CANYON’S 4TH OF JULY DRAWS
THOUSANDS TO THE SQUARE
BY NOLA HOPKINS
At one point, the line to get into the annual Lions Club’s July 4th pancake breakfast snaked down the hall of the Cole Community Center, along the sidewalk next to the building, past the parking lot and almost to the Canyon Police Department.
“The event is a community favorite,” Canyon Lions Club President Stacia Hauser said. “We have people from all over the panhandle come to enjoy the pancake breakfast and the Canyon 4h of July celebration. Canyon Lions Club gets to do what we love the most, serve our community.”
Approximately 1,226 people attended the breakfast with 2,500 pancakes cooked in 2024. Some 72 Lions Club members volunteered to host breakfast. Earlier in the morning, volunteers had put out more than 625 American flags along Canyon streets.
“It’s all hands-on deck that day to make it successful,” Hauser said. “I’m very proud of our club!”
The club expected to make $4,000 profit that will help support community organizations and projects.
“It’s a tradition for us,” Kay Ledbetter, Amarillo, said. “We really love starting out our 4th of July celebration each year with the pancake breakfast and parade.” She had bought advance tickets, so her family stood in a shorter line.
After the breakfast, people strolled over to the Fair on the Square to browse before finding their spots along Fourth Avenue from which to watch the parade. Others
One hundred vendors set up their booths around the square.
poured onto the square after the hour-and-ahalf long parade.
One hundred vendors set up their booths around the square. Twelve food trucks plus
five drink/snowcone/popsicle vendors helped feed the crowd.
Cathy Welch, a Mary Kay consultant for 25 years, set up her booth on the north side of the square. The Amarillo resident estimated she has participated in the event more than 15 years.
“I love meeting the people,” she said. She conducted a “luscious lips” contest at her booth. Participants applied lipstick and kissed a piece of paper, leaving their lip prints. At the end of the event, Welch judged the “best kiss” winner. She said, surprisingly enough, that college guys often enter the contest. They removed their excess lipstick with oil-free eye makeup remover.
Siblings Canyon Wilhite, Aspen Wilhite
and Jack Canada sold rings they designed from silver-plated spoons and forks they discovered at antique stores. Canyon researches the date and brand on the silverware backs. In addition to the rings already made, customers could also select a spoon or fork to have custom made on site.
Canyon started selling the rings at Canyon High School five months ago until his graduation in May. The trio “wanted to take it further” and started selling at the Canyon Farmer’s Market. This is their first time to participate in Fair on the Square.
“I hope everyone enjoys the jewelry,” Canada said. “That’s the most gratifying part.”
CANYON MAIN STREET
BY NOLA HOPKINS
Canyon was designated a Main Street City in 2002. Since that time, the non-profit organization has provided fun and fellowship for the community, as well as helping preserve its historic flavor.
Canyon Mayor Gary Hinders was on the committee that helped get Canyon designated as a Main Street City, one of only 88 in Texas.
“Canyon Main Street has pulled businesses together,” Hinders told guests at the Canyon Main Street 2025 sponsorship Kickoff Luncheon in February.
“It builds community in Canyon. I love that more than anything. Canyon Main Street has been a huge part of the revitalization of downtown and really all of Canyon. To provide the quality of life in the community, they have really been the center of providing that. They add fun to Canyon.”
Over the years, Canyon Main Street’s projects have included hanging banners on downtown lamp posts and placing “big belly” solar trash cans around the Square. It held a contest to choose the artist for a mural painted on the side of Palo Duro Outfitters’ brick building on the corner of the Square.
Perhaps its biggest (literally) project has been to restore the 47-foot, 7 ton iconic Tex Randall
cowboy that stands along Highway 60.
One of its current projects is to build ramps and rails for easier sidewalk access on the corners of the Square.
These projects and others reflect Canyon Main Street’s mission statement … “To improve the quality of life for the citizens of Canyon and the benefit of the overall community, through the enhancement and promotion of historic preservation, restoration, business vitality, tourism, cultural and arts awareness.”
Volunteers have put in nearly 5,000 hours since 2002.
With the help of those volunteers, Canyon Main Street also provides activities throughout the year. The first is the Giddy Up for Tex 5K in April, which starts at Neblett Park just south of the Square and runs through Canyon’s streets. Profits are used to help maintain Tex Randall.
Canyon Main Street and the Farmers Market have collaborated to host the May Market. It includes Farmers Market vendors, food trucks, live music, a book signing and local artists’ works.
Canyon Main Street really ramps up for summer events.
Local musicians entertain at June Jams each Thursday of that month at Neblett Park from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Families bring their lawn chairs and blankets to listen to the music.
Families will haul out their lawn chairs and blankets again for Movie Night on the Square on Friday, July 18. The movie will be shown on the southeast corner of the Randall County Courthouse lawn, starting at 9 p.m.
A Farewell to Summer Concert will be from 7:30-8:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 2 at Neblett Park.
Canyon Main Street will collaborate with Canyon Farmers Market on Saturday, September 27 for the last day of the market season. It will also include a pet parade, as well as pumpkin decorating.
An estimated 3,000 costumed children attended last year’s Halloween Spooktacular around the Square.
Approximately 60 businesses, West Texas A&M University organizations and Canyon civic organizations set up games and pass out treats from their vehicle trunks or tables.
Merchants on the Square also hand out candy from their storefronts. This year’s Spooktacular will be from 5:30-7 p.m. on Friday, October 24.
“In a time when technology is the center of our universe, it’s important that we find the time to come together as a family as a community to create memories,” Canyon Main Street Program Coordinator Audry Miller said.
Miller summarized life in Canyon … “Canyon is a community where the warmth of its people and the beauty of its surroundings create a welcoming atmosphere. In Canyon, every neighbor is a friend; every street has a story and community involvement brings us all together.”
CANYON OFFERS PLENTY TO DO FOR VISITORS, RESIDENTS
BY TERESA YOUNG
Whether you are visiting Canyon, Texas, as a guest or you call the city home, there are plenty of great activities, eateries and shopping to keep people busy.
Active adventurers and nature lovers alike can enjoy a day at Palo Duro Canyon State Park, featuring scenic views and stunning photo opportunities in the country’s second largest canyon. Hikers will find 30 miles of trails to follow in varying degrees of difficulty, and true outdoor lovers can make a weekend camping in Palo Duro’s various offerings ranging from rentable cabins for glamping, campsites with electricity and water, and more rustic tent sites.
The Palo Duro amphitheater is home to the annual summer productions of TEXAS Outdoor Musical telling the story of the area’s history. A barbecue dinner is available in the pavilion before the show with reservations for a complete evening. A visitor’s center is home to a park store for pottery, books and jewelry, and The Trading Post has souvenirs, snacks and meals.
Visits to the park require a daily pass for adults for $8 and advance reservations for spots are available online and encouraged during peak season. The park’s website has downloadable maps of trails and campsites to plan your visit fully: https://tpwd.texas. gov/state-parks/palo-duro-canyon.
If outdoor scenes are your thing, you will also want to check out the Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge Center in nearby Umbarger. There, you can catch various bird species, prairie dogs, burrowing owls and more in the refuge grasslands on an auto tour or while hiking, camping or picnicking.
To cool off in the warm Panhandle spring and
summer, Canyon Aqua Park is the place to visit. Located in Conner Park, the park was transformed into a water oasis, featuring a lazy river and water slides as well as a pool for diving. Plenty of lounge chairs are available to relax in the sunshine as well as umbrellas and tables for snacks you can pick up in the snack bar area. There are also pavilions available for rental for parties and events.
You can visit the webpage online to reserve tickets to the water park in advance for one of two sessions: noon to 3 p.m. or 4-7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and on Sundays from 1-4 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Admission is $6 on Monday through Thursday and $8 on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Season passes are also available, and the park opens May 24 for the 2025 season, running
through August 9. Visit the website here for more info: https://www.canyontx.gov/694/Canyon-AquaPark---The-CAP.
Other outdoor activities include biking at Canyon Trails at Buffalo Hill and the golf course at Palo Duro Creek.
If shopping is on the agenda, visit the historic downtown square in Canyon and Main Street for
some unique offerings. Check out shops like the Blessed Buffalo Boutique, Burrowing Owl Books, Canyon’s Edge Plants, Runningwater Dry Goods, HR’s Flowers & Gifts, Thompson’s Gift Shop and Weathered Elements for gifts, clothing and more.
Foodies will love to grab snacks at the Canyon Popcorn Company, the Cake Company, Rockin’ Zebra Soda Shop, or grab a friend and chill over java at coffee joints like 13/30 Coffee, Journey Coffee, Palace Coffee or the new acai bar.
For more full meals, check out local eateries like Mickey’s Place for Italian, Feldman’s Wrong Way Diner, Bear’s Burgers & Dawgs, Best Thai, Buff’s, Joe Taco, Sayakomarn’s Thai & Lao Cuisine and so much more!”
Mickey’s Place
Canyon’s Edge Plants
Canyon Aqua Park
PALO DURO RETIREMENT VILLAGE
BY NOLA HOPKINS
If residents at Palo Duro Retirement
Village, an independent living facility, are bored, it’s their own fault, according to one resident.
Their monthly calendar is packed with activities such as monthly potluck birthday celebrations, bingo games, Bible Studies and visiting entertainers.
“Come to the Village where the true meaning of community means family,” said Palo Duro Retirement Village Executive Director Deborah Brantley.
Residents can buy or lease a one or two bedroom apartment in the three-story facility or buy a town home nearby. Either way, they have once-a-month housekeeping services and grounds keeping.
Apartments come with a small storage unit and covered parking. They can also rent a garage space and the facility has 24-hour security.
The coffee is set up and ready for early risers who want to socialize in the dining room each morning.
A beautician’s shop is onsite. A library is also available. A registered nurse comes weekly to check blood pressure and discuss medical issues. Residents can purchase lunches Monday-Friday in the dining room.
Resident Wes Allen, 93, has been a widower for 16 years.
“This (the Village) is one of the best places you can live in Canyon,” Allen said. “Everybody here is congenial. It’s a pleasant place to be.”
Mary Rice has lived in a Village town home for nearly eight years. She appreciates having
her lawn taken care of, as well as getting things taken care of that are hard for her to do.
“I enjoy getting to know the other people my age, playing cards, and going to the socials,” Rice said.
Those who love the outdoors can enjoy fishing (or watching their grandchildren fish) from the dock on the Village pond, or they can enjoy the patios in the shady backyard.
According to Palo Duro Village website … Louis Hinders, a life-long Canyon resident, determined a need for affordable, independent senior citizen housing in the Texas Panhandle. He and a group of interested citizens formed a Founding Board and after six years of planning,
“I enjoy getting to know the other people my age, playing cards, and going to the socials.”
obtained community backing, and in 1984, Palo Duro Retirement Village became a reality. Louis and his wife, Carolyn, have passed on, but their vision of a distinguished retirement community lives on.
Anyone who is interested in touring the facilities can call (806) 655-1712 for an appointment. Palo Duro Retirement Village is located at 9 Hospital Drive.
CANYON AREA LIBRARY
BY NOLA HOPKINS
The Canyon Area Library is much more than a place to check out books. Its monthly calendars are full of fun activities for patrons of all ages.
“The library is a place that families can come to check out books, but they can also come to programs,” Library Director Carlene Harguess said. “We’re not just story time for toddlers; we have a lot of other things going on.”
Children’s activities abound. Wiggle Worms for Children (0-5) and their caregivers meets every Monday at 10:30 a.m. with singing, rhymes and reading simple stories. A reader from the community such as a fireman or policeman reads a book about his/her profession to the children the first Wednesday of the month at 10:30 a.m.
Children can learn sign language at Sit and Sign Storytime the second Wednesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. They exercise at Reach and Read at 10:30 a.m. the fourth Wednesday of the month.
Families can enjoy time together by reading a
chapter book and then coming to watch the movie of the month made from that book from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. the fourth Saturday of the month.
Patron Masadies Baker brings her 5-year-old son, Lincoln Miler, for an hour each weekday for part of his home-schooling.
“They have a lot of good resources,” Baker said. Teens learn life skills such as cooking, sewing and car maintenance at “It’s a Teen Thing” the third Thursday of the month at 4:30 p.m.
The library hosts “Knit Night” every Monday from 4-6 p.m. Attendees can learn patterns, get knitting help and enjoy the company of other knitters. They need to provide their own supplies, or they can check out knitting supplies from the Library of Things.
The Library of Things is a collection of items that people might not want to buy so they can borrow them from the library. Examples of items include: a stud finder, a dolly, graphing calculator, telescope, Bingo cage set, 6-foot folding tables, karaoke machine and a pop-up canopy tent.
Pictures of the items are displayed in the library
to show patrons what is available. Many of the items were donated.
“It’s a new trend in libraries,” Harguess said. “We definitely like people to come in just to see what new things we have. We definitely have things you don’t realize a library might have. That includes the programs that we offer, too.”
The Library of Things started with the “Cake Pan Library” of 20 pans.
Adults can do projects at “Crafternoon” the first Friday of the month from 4-5 p.m. Those who want to get away from it all and just read can come to Sip and Shhh Book Club at 10:30 a.m. the first Saturday of the month.
Members of Cooking the Books Book Club choose a theme and bring their prepared dishes and recipes to their meetings at 11 a.m. the second Saturday of the month. Chair aerobics are offered the last Thursday of the month.
If a month has five Wednesdays, the library hosts a field trip related to a book.
The library offers inter-library loans, color printing, a 3D printer and public fax.
The library gives tours to any group wishing to obtain a better understanding of the library’s services. Tour groups include public and private school classes, scout troops, childcare groups and more.
The Friends of the Library, a volunteer/nonprofit organization, helps make these activities and services possible. Their store is in the front foyer of the library. Sales of their books and a flea market before Christmas also help provide funds for the summer reading program, tween and teen reading area and the fish aquarium and equipment.
The Friends of the Library have also built and maintained The Little Book Houses located at Hunsley Park, Madison Park and Canyon East Park.
Canyon Area Library has been given the Library of Excellence Award by the Texas Municipal Library Directors Association two years in a row. That places it in the Top 19 percent of libraries in Texas.
The Canyon Area Library is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and closed on Sunday. It is located at 301 16th Street and the phone number is (806) 655-5015.
CANYON FARMERS MARKET
BY NOLA HOPKINS
Browsing the Canyon Farmers Market on the historic Square has become a Saturday morning summer tradition for locals and visitors, as well. In fact, an estimated 16,000 people showed up for opening day last year.
“We cannot wait for the start of the 2025 season on June 7,” said Board President Annie Sandifer. “We will have 112 vendors. We are focused this year on community involvement and fun activities for the families.”
When the market started 12 years ago, vendors filled only the south side of the Square. Now vendors surround the Square with their tents, tables and food trucks.
Shoppers can find fresh home-grown produce such as squash, melons, tomatoes, honey, goat cheese, eggs and corn on the cob. Baked goods include cinnamon rolls, tortillas and sourdough bread. Additionally, homemade crafts, canned goods, clothing and accessories, soaps and salsa are available.
Meats include grass-fed beef, chicken, lamb, goat and sausage. Aromas from the food trucks also lure the strolling shoppers. Live music and a bouncy house for children add to the festive atmosphere.
Customers often return weekly to their favorite vendors. The Farmers Market runs from June 7 to September 27, the last Saturday in September. That’s 17 markets for the season. It opens at 8 a.m. and closes at Noon.
The market will collaborate with Canyon Main Street for the Autumn Street Fest that final day when a pet parade and pumpkin decorating are added attractions.
The Market also hosts community activities on the Square at the same time as the Randall County Master Gardeners, Canyon Area Library, Palo Duro Bee Club, Panhandle Plains Historical Museum, Randall County 4-H, Flying Fitness and Mama and Baby Yoga.
A First Responders Day will be July 26 with first responders’ vehicles and activities for the family.
A Farm-to-Table Dinner at the end of the season spotlights a variety of locally grown meats, fruits and vegetables. Local culinary experts prepare the dishes that are served on the historic Randall County Courthouse lawn.
The second annual Moon Market, on October 18, will give attendees a festive fall
evening to shop in the moonlight from 5 to 9 p.m. Vendors hang lights on their tents to add to the night’s décor.
The Canyon Farmers Market mission is to “support local growers, artisans and bakers by connecting the community and producers through commerce and education.”
“All items sold at the Canyon Farmers Market must be home grown, homemade or home
“Our market would not be where it is now without our wonderful community coming out and supporting our local small businesses.”
baked,” according to the Market’s website. Downtown merchants, as well as others, off the Square also benefit from the influx of customers.
“Our market would not be where it is now without our wonderful community coming out and supporting our local small businesses,” Sandifer said. “We are expecting our best year yet.”
CANYON CULTIVATES WITH WESTERN ART AND LOCAL ARTISTS
BY NOLA HOPKINS
It’s not necessary to go to New York City or Paris to see fine art. Canyon has an amazing amount of art and art history.
Georgia O’Keeffe the “Mother of American Modernism,” taught art classes from 1916-1918 at what was then the new West Texas State Normal College. She spent hours at Palo Duro Canyon, inspired by its beauty.
During her time in Canyon, she produced 51 watercolors; most were of the canyon but two, “House with Red Sky” and “Roof with Snow” were of a house across the street from where she rented a room. Both houses now have historical markers. The
Panhandle Plains Historical Museum Art Gallery has a display of O’Keeffe’s artifacts as well as her painting “Red Landscape.”
Since it acquired its first piece of art in 1933, the museum’s Art Gallery has grown to 8,000 art objects: “Every scrap of paper, drawings, paintings, statues, sculptures, decorative collections (vases, silver) …” according to Deana Craighead, Curator of Art.
The museum’s five permanent galleries are dedicated as follows: European and Eastern American art, Frank Reaugh, Southwestern Art, Early Texas Art and Western Illustrators. Its historic Texas collection is the state’s most comprehensive. The museum boasts that it has the “finest
Southwestern American art collection between Fort Worth and Santa Fe, N.M.”
What was the “Bugbee Gallery” is now a rotating space. “On the Edge of the Canyon” opened Feb. 4 as the first exhibition in that gallery. It includes 20-25 works that center around O’Keeffe’s “Red Landscape.”
Local artist Marsha Clements opened her studio, Marsha Clements Art, at 1608 Fourth Ave. in 2017. She uses bright colors – reds and yellows – in her favorite subjects – poppies and sunsets. Buffaloes (for her alma mater) and Palo Duro Canyon landscapes also are featured subjects.
Passersby can’t help but notice her paintings displayed in the windows of her studio near downtown.
“You should paint what you know,” Clements said. “So you will see I paint the Texas skies, the landscapes around me and the plants and animals that live around me.”
Clements does commissioned work, especially of children and pets. She also sells prints of her work on metal, canvas, acrylic and wood. She was the featured artist for the souvenir program for “Texas Outdoor Musical” in 2013 and 2021.
The former elementary educator teaches art classes in her studio Tuesdays 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 6 - 9 p.m. She welcomes guests to stop by the studio to view paintings and to watch her paint. She suggests people may want to call 806-676-1733 for an appointment because her hours in the studio vary. Her artwork can also be seen on her website MarshaClementsArt.com.
Another Canyon artist is world-famous Jack Sorenson. His Western paintings are a reflection of his life spent on and around horses. As a teenager, he drove a stagecoach and was a gunfighter on his father’s dude ranch and frontier town, Six Gun City, on the rim of Palo Duro Canyon. He worked breaking horses for years. Sorenson began painting full-time in 1974. Today he lives on the canyon’s rim and paints from his studio there.
“I’ve known all my life that I was going to be an artist,” he said on his website. “It’s like a preacher being called –it’s what I’m supposed to do.”
In his early career as an artist he had two goals: to have his paintings on the cover of a Western magazine and to have his work featured on Leanin’ Tree Christmas & Greeting Cards. In his 40-year career as an artist, he has had more than a dozen of his paintings featured on magazine covers, and he is one of the best-selling artists for Leanin’ Tree cards. He reached another goal when he was voted into the Cowboy Artists of America Group in 2021.
“I believe great paintings should tell a story – they should involve the viewer,” he said on his website. “So much of Western art today is basically a cowboy or
Indian riding through a Western landscape. We have the opportunity as artists to do so much more. I think that even a painting’s title should help tell the story.”
Joe Wade Fine Art of Santa Fe, NM, is the exclusive representative of Jack Sorenson’s original oil paintings. Prints can be purchased at prints.jacksorensonfineart.com
Other Canyon artists include Gary Ward, Kem Pirtle, Carl Smith and Paige Nester.
Not all art is framed.
Tex Randall, the 47 ft., 7-ton cowboy that overlooks Highway 60 is a Texas icon with his own Texas Historical Commission marker. Harry Wheeler, a local industrial arts teacher, built the statue in 1959 to attract tourists to his motel and curio shop. He covered his concrete cowboy with burlap to protect it from the weather.
Levi- Strauss provided pants and Amarillo Awning constructed the cloth shirt. The clothes were hand-stitched in the back with sailboat thread. Unfortunately, over the years the West Texas wind, snow, heat, etc. destroyed the clothing, and the body deteriorated. In 1989, Tex received some TLC and a coat of paint. However, by 2015, Tex was crumbling badly.
Canyon Main Street, a non-profit organization, has owned Tex since 2010 and raised nearly $300,000 to restore the
cowboy and surrounding land. Restoration started in 2015. After the repairs were made and large areas painted, Rhonda Timmons from near Lubbock painted details, working with a driver on a platform. The hardest and most time-consuming part of the job was painting stripes on Tex’s shirt. She had to get stripes in the right direction to shape his stomach and make the shirt look as if it’s tucked in straight. Her work took only two gallons per color of a special heavy-bodied paint. A clear coat was applied afterwards to preserve the cowboy. Since he has been spiffed up, Sports Illustrated has photographed one of its models with him.
Another display of local art is the mural painted on the side of the Buff’s building on the corner of Fourth Ave. and 23rd Street. The mural depicts an oxen-drawn covered wagon with a young couple and their dog, a sheep herder, the Light House and Mount Rushmore with the heads of local notables Georgia O’Keeffe, Col. Charles Goodnight, Matthew “Bones” Hooks and Quanah Parker.
The legend at the left end of the mural says “A New Day” in large cursive letters and in print below “This mural is dedicated to our diverse culture.”
The “WT Mural Squad” (12 student artists) painted the mural in 2019. The squad has painted nearly a dozen murals since then, on campus and in other panhandle Texas towns.
AGRICULTURE OUTLOOK
CENTERS ON CATTLE PRODUCTION, HIGHER BEEF PRICES
BY NOLA HOPKINS CANYON NEWS CORRESPONDENT
Drought, insects and weeds. That’s what Randall County farmers faced in 2024, and 2025 looks about the same, according to Randall County Extension Agent Dr. J.D. Ragland.
Although the county received 10-17 inches of rain last May during the “flood episode that came hard and fast,” the water ran off with little soil penetration. When the rain stopped, it stopped for the rest of the year which meant an extremely dry growing season for wheat, corn and sorghum.
Cotton was wiped out by the May floods, and it was too late in the season to replant the 10,000 acres, so county farmers produced no cotton in 2023.
Ragland said Randall County farmers planted 85,000 acres of wheat, 40,000-60,000 acres of grain sorghum and 2,500 acres of corn last year. He doesn’t think there will be much change in that acreage except some farmers may switch to more corn and sorghum silage which are high commercial crops for feed lots and dairies.
Controlling insects is always a major concern, according to Ragland.
Weeds are like COVID. There seems to be a new species every season as weed seeds blow in. Weed control, like insect control, is an annual challenge.
Another challenge for farmers in 2025 will be the economic input cost to operate. Everything will be more expensive this year: machinery, seeds, fuel, etc. but the price for the crops has not increased.
Ragland provides educational sessions throughout the year. He said a hot topic this year will be a late season corn disease that many farmers are not aware of. Because the disease just appeared in 2023, researchers have not found a treatment for the crop-killing disease yet.
The bright spot in 2024 agriculture was cattle production. Beef prices were high because many ranchers across the country sold their cattle due to the 2023 drought and high feed costs. It’s now a matter of supply and demand with a low supply and a high demand for beef; that’s good news for ranchers who were able to keep their cattle.
Randall County demographics are changing rapidly because housing developments are taking land out of agricultural production. Over the last three years, 22,000 acres, or 29 percent of Randall County agricultural land, has been developed, according to Ragland. Water issues were a concern for agriculture and homeowners in 2024.
Another facet of the Randall County Extension Agency is the 4-H Club.
Ragland said 450 members are on the club’s roll.
One program growing in popularity is shooting sports: trap shooting, skeet shooting, rifle and archery. With 70-90 students, the club always needs adult volunteers to help manage practices.
Another popular program is foods and nutrition. In Food Challenge, groups of three to four are on a team that is provided a recipe, equipment and a scenario. Around 30 Randall County 4-H teams compete at district and state levels.
It’s now a matter of supply and demand with a low supply and a high demand for beef; that’s good news for ranchers who were able to keep their cattle.
Quiz bowl teams have competed at the national level in Livestock Skill-a-Thon.
A total of 194 exhibitors showed 486 animals in the 2024 Randall County Junior Livestock Show in January. Although sales totals vary year to year, Ragland estimated sales gross $450,000 for the students. Randall County exhibitors do well at the bigger shows, also. Last year a local student showed the grand champion steer at the Fort Worth Stock Show and won $470,000.
OLD LUMBER YARD MAKING CANYON AN ENTERTAINMENT MECCA
BY NELL WILLIAMS
Another Canyon landmark and historic treasure is getting new life due to the vision of a local entrepreneur.
The Old Lumber Yard, as it’s referred to, is actually Taylor & Sons Lumber Yard, just northeast of US Hwy 87 leaving Canyon. Plans are moving ahead to repurpose the area into an exciting, new multi-purpose venue.
Danny Byrd, Canyon entrepreneur who formerly owned Bourbon Street Café in Amarillo and also has Feldman’s One-Way Diner in Canyon, recently purchased the land from Wilford Taylor.
According to Byrd, “It was really just a lucky accident that I got it.”
Byrd was talking to the owner, who mentioned he might like to sell the 45-acre area, and he took him up on it. Then, Byrd said, “Now what do I do with it?”
But he had been toying with the idea of having an outdoor/indoor event center for a while, Byrd said.
“I used to have live music at Bourbon Street and wanted that to come back,” Byrd added.
Work is continuing at the Old Lumber Yard, northeast of Canyon. It has gone through the annexing process by the City of Canyon and getting more work done on the interior as well as finishing the exterior.
Driving down U.S. Hwy 87, the Red Barn and White Quonset Hut with a Texas star showcase the work already done.
To the south of the Red Barn is a large entertainment area with a stage in the process of being worked on. When completed, the area will hold 10,000 customers. The outside venue is sure to attract a bevy of entertainers and happy customers, too.
According to Byrd, the Red Barn will be the area people can lease for parties, events, banquets or whatever the public wants. Next to it, the Quonset Hut is planned to be a large restaurant and bar with no live entertainment. There will be a Beer Wall with taps available to those wanting an adult beverage.
Customers need only to purchase a wrist band which will open a tab and automatically charge the customer by the ounce of wine or beer they choose.
There will be additional outdoor patio space to the north of the Quonset Hut where people can enjoy eating or drinking outside with easy access inside. Also, there will be a Pole Barn in the area.
The first concert took place May 18 with the Josh Abbott Band. The different areas may open at different times, depending on the completion date.
Byrd said he could envision car shows, conventions and all kinds of activities being held there without stealing any of the activities in downtown Canyon.
“I think it will be a draw to the city along with the museum and university and Palo Duro Canyon,” Byrd said. “It will all tie together.”
There will be some landscaped area for the patio which will be dog friendly, maybe even a dog park.
There is also a possibility of a driving range, “where you can come eat, have a beer and hit some golf balls,” Byrd said.
A grassy area will have VIP access and room to roam around.
Byrd said there are some old railroad cars out there we want to utilize.
“One was protected from the sun and says Super Chief on it,” Byrd added.
“I’ve had many meetings with the City and weren’t not going to charge the City to have an event, or people, just want people to come out and have a good time,” Byrd said.
Canyon is becoming a mecca for entertainment and arts and the Old Lumber Yard is positioned to be another widely popular, successful place for people far and wide to attend.
FIRST UNITED BANK CENTER
Whether packed with first-year students, basketball fans, lectures or proud families of West Texas A&M University graduates, the First United Bank Center serves as a home for many of the milestones of a college career.
Opened to the public in 2002, the First United Bank Center was designed as a facility with the versatility to host graduations (WT and Canyon High School), sports events (WT men’s and women’s basketball, high school basketball tournaments and playoff games) and a number of other functions (lectures, band concerts and Ag shows).
The First United Bank Center has since met that need, serving as the home court for the nationallyranked WTAMU Buffs and Lady Buffs basketball games and as the venue for the university’s convocation and commencement ceremonies in May, August and December.
In 2022, the Lady Buffs hosted the NCAA Division II South Central Regional Tournament.
In 2024, the Buffs entertained the NCAA Division II South Central Regional Tournament.
Other events hosted at the First United Bank Center included high school basketball playoff games, Kids, Inc. Tournament of Champions, gymnastics and twirling competitions, banquets and craft and trade shows.
The 77,000 square-foot facility seats approximately 4,800 visitors for sporting events with a capacity of 5,800 for commencement and concerts.
The First United Bank Center has hosted many famous entertainers – Robert Herjavec (Shark Tank) and Kellie Pickler - throughout the year, as well as Texas Country musicians Pat Green, Randy Rogers Band and the Josh Abbott Band for Fourth of July outdoor concerts.
Also, many Distinguished Lecture series speakers including Maya Angelou, Somaly Mam, Dr. Elie Wiesel and Khaled Hosseini have appeared at the First United Bank Center.
The First United Bank Center is located on the university campus at the corner of Russell Long Blvd., and Fourth Avenue. Tickets for athletic events can be purchased in the First United Bank Center box office on Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or online at www.gobuffsgo.com.
ALL-INCLUSIVE PARK HONORS
LEGACY OF CANYON’S KYLIE HINER
BY NELL WILLIAMS
The dream of an all-inclusive park for Canyon to honor one of the city’s most loved members has finally become a reality. It took around four years of planning, fundraising and hard work to make the dream happen, but now the colorful park is full of kids and family enjoying the special equipment made for all kids.
The idea for the playground for Canyon started with a conversation with the Southwest AMBUCS group to build the unique facility that will serve autistic and special needs children as well as their brothers, sisters and parents.
The new 9,000 square-foot playground is located at Conner Park across from the Canyon Aquatic Park and the cost of $1.2 million was raised by Southwest AMBUCS and other entities across the Panhandle.
It was decided by the Parks Committee to name the special playground after Kylie Hiner, an autistic Canyon resident who died in 2017. She left a lasting impression with everyone she met and was greatly loved by the Canyon community.
The plan was fulfilled to have 48 feet of ramps providing wheelchair access throughout the elevated play structure.
Vance Hall, one of the Playground Committee Chairmen for the Southwest AMBUCS said that
they had been involved in four different inclusive playgrounds in Amarillo, including the Medi-Park playground and splash pad.
“AMBUCS is committed to creating independence for people with disabilities through our AMTRYKES and playground programs,” Hall added.
Former Canyon Mayor Quinn Alexander served as the chair for the Canyon Committee.
“There has been lots of planning and hours and it’s our challenge to get our Canyon neighbors to help raise this money. We’re going to make this a reality,” Alexander said.
According to the committee, $300,000 had already been raised for the project. There were also numerous grants applied for and other fundraisers held.
Finally, despite COVID-19 and other setbacks, the Kylie Hiner Memorial Park was dedicated Thursday at the park’s location, by Conner Park. Southwest AMBUCS spearheaded the drive to make a fully accessible playground for all kids in the Canyon community by raising $1.2 million for the project.
The AMBUCS ceremony included a ribbon cutting, speakers and a moment of silence to honor Kylie’s life.
Kylie was an exceptional girl who made friends
BlessedBuffalo Boutique
with everyone she met and remembered their names and the smallest details about them. She lived with Autism and instead of limiting her, it seemed to enhance her. She had an infectious sense of humor and shared it with everyone she met. She had the ability to make everyone feel special.
One of her favorite pastimes was going to the park and swinging. To honor her and her spirit, Southwest AMBUCS, a non-profit agency dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities, was proud to lead the movement to bring the park to life and offer a “Place where family fun has no limits,” and all children can play together.
The all-inclusive playground required special playground equipment that had to be ordered. The equipment includes a zipline feature with a safe, cuplike chair, an eclipse net climber that kids call the Spider Web and equipment like drums and a xylophone that explore tactile and musical experiences. Of course, there are swings and other park equipment with safety features such as straps. There is also a shaded picnic area connected to the playground.
The community spirit of Canyon came together to make this area possible.
THE MARKET ON TIERRA BLANCA
BY NOLA HOPKINS
Food insecurity is a hidden reality in Randall County. That’s what leadership members of St. Ann’s Catholic Church discovered when they researched community needs six years ago.
As a result, they opened The Market on Tierra Blanca, a food pantry, in January of 2024, east of their campus.
“It makes the difference of whether I run out of food the last two weeks of the month because the money I receive pays bills and food for two weeks,” said one client, a Marine Corps veteran. He has walked to the pantry because he didn’t have enough money to pay for car repairs.
The church board chose the name “The Market on Tierra Blanca” (a creek that runs nearby) because “we want to offer a generic name that has no stigma attached, and the clients can be proud of attending,” said The Market on Tierra Blanca Executive Director Glenn Backus.
Clients are given pantry credit points according to the number in the family.
Volunteers help guests collect a grocery cart and walk through the fresh produce section, three aisles of non-perishable food, and refrigerators with milk and meat.
Clients make their own food choices, with prices (points) marked. Volunteers scan their items at checkout, debiting points from the clients’ accounts, letting them know how many they have remaining for the month. Clients can spread their credits over the month, but they can’t come in twice in one week.
The pantry is open 3 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday and 9 a.m. to Noon on Friday for Randall County residents and West Texas A&M University students.
Feeding America surveyed Randall County and found that 13.9 percent of its residents are food insecure. That’s 21,000 people, according to Backus. The Market on Tierra Blanca feeds close to 1,000 people a month. Board president Simon Leech predicted that number could grow to 2,500 a month by the end of the year.
People can donate financially on the website
www.sthelensoutreach.org/donate or can drop non-perishable food by the pantry during open hours.
However, The Market on Tierra Blanca is not all about handing out food.
“The love that we share with our clients is more than just feeding the hungry,” Backus said. “It builds community, neighbor-helping-neighbor.”
Volunteers are a cross section of the community. They come from churches, organizations, businesses and schools.
“Very rarely does God give us the opportunity to see the direct impact we have on others’ lives,” Backus said. “We get to see that every day here. The difference that we are making in others’ lives is the love that we give is returned many times.”
Rich Hobson volunteers to give back to the community.
“The clients that come to shop – it just floors me how appreciative they are of being able to shop here and of the people who work here,” Hobson said.
Volunteer Darlene Fetsch agreed.
“This is one of the most rewarding things I have been a part of,” Fetsch added. “The need is so great. I wasn’t aware of how much the need was here in our community. To be able to be a part of their lives – it’s a ministry and a privilege to be Christ’s hands and feet. It’s such a blessing. It makes my heart happy.”
One lady comes to The Market on Tierra Blanca for her 85-year-old mother.
“This (the pantry) is very important to me because this food helps my mother, so I come every month to be sure she’s being taken care of properly.”
She said her mother is very appreciative of the food.
The Market on Tierra Blanca received the 2025 Canyon Chamber of Commerce Non-Profit of the Year Award for its work in the community.
Volunteers wear blue T-shirts with the scripture from Matthew 25:35 … “I was hungry and you gave me food” on the back.
The Market on Tierra Blanca gives food and much more.
CANYON’S OLYMPIC THEATER BROUGHT LIFE TO SQUARE IN 1918
BY NOLA HOPKINS CANYON NEWS CORRESPONDENT
Back in the day, before television, going to the movies was a big deal in Canyon.
Just like in the movies (ironically), Canyon’s first movie house, the Olympic Theater, was a silent film theater with music provided by a player piano. Film companies provided sheet music for the pianist or rolls to be inserted into the piano, in which case the pianist pumped the foot pedals throughout the entire movie.
The Olympic Theater opened in 1918 and was located just east of where the Randall County
Finance Building is now. Fifth Avenue was unpaved at the time.
The theater was moved to its new location Sept. 29, 1926, at 1511 Fourth Ave. The building still stands but is vacant. The marquee has been removed, but its original façade is the same as that of early photos.
“The building is one of the most modern and complete in Canyon and is a great credit to the business section,” a Canyon News caption said under an opening-day picture. In the news story, the paper wrote, “The theater takes its place among the most beautiful structures of the town and is also one of the most modern. The spirit behind its construction is in keeping with the progress being shown in Canyon.”
After the new Olympic Theater opened, the original one was renamed the Strand Theater but later accidentally burned.
The new theater had the latest machines but “talkies” didn’t come to the screen until 1929. It had a piano-organ that could be used for the movies or for vaudeville shows that were often presented on the 20’ x 40’ stage. It had 571 seats.
Leroy Wooten, son of owner W. J. Wooten, Sr., once said, “I always figured I could build a life-size statue from the chewing gum on the bottoms of these seats.”
Wooten and his four brothers worked in
“The theater takes its place among the most beautiful structures of the town and is also one of the most modern. The spirit behind its construction is in keeping with the progress being shown in Canyon.”
the theater as they were growing up.
Lifelong Canyon resident Harold Root remembers the Olympic Theater well. The manager “gathered some of the local kids and gave us a bundle (monthly calendars of upcoming movies). We delivered them doorto-door.”
They were rewarded with free movie tickets. The calendars also contained one free ticket per family.
“We lived and breathed by the monthly calendar,” Root said.
Tickets were 10 cents for children under 12 and 25 cents for adults into the 1940s.
“Kids didn’t have all the free time like they do now,” Root said. “Most kids had to work, so when we did get to go to the movies, it was a big deal.”
Root remembers Saturday night as the big night for the whole county. Predominantly farm families would parallel park their cars around the square. Children went to the movies while adults sat in their cars and visited.
“The ladies ‘car-hopped’ and caught up on gossip,” Root said.
Because there was only one restroom in the theater, patrons would leave between double
features and go to the restrooms across the street at the courthouse which was kept open.
After the movies, families went down the street to the Canyon Drugstore that had a full soda fountain that served milkshakes and Coke floats.
“In that era we did survive without TV,” Root said. “I guess maybe in some ways we were a lot better off.”
Later, W.J. Wooten, Sr. opened the Canyon Drive-in Theater where the county maintenance facility is now.
He also opened the Varsity Theater on Fourth Avenue nearer the university. Both have closed.
The Randall County Historical Commission has the Olympic’s popcorn popper in its meeting room in the Randall County Finance Building. The Commission also has movie posters from the Olympic. Members hope to frame them behind plexiglass so the fragile posters can be displayed.
The Commission is also researching W. J. Wooten, Sr.’s life to submit an application for a state historical subject marker to show his contribution to Canyon.
“A window into the way of life is what we are really looking at,” Root said.
CANYON ISD GROWTH COVERS 3 HIGH SCHOOLS, 21 TOTAL CAMPUSES
BY TIM RITTER TRITTER@HEARSTNP.COM
“E
mpowering Lifelong success” … that’s the motto of the Canyon Independent School District.
For the past nine years, under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Darryl Flusche, Canyon ISD has placed excellence at the forefront in the classroom, extracurricular activities and the administration.
“For a parent that has a child in our system, we value that person as an individual, the most precious thing in the world of a parents … that they are trusting us to take care of their most precious thing in their whole world for seven hours a day. For that seven hours a day, they (parents) are not around. We have to respect that trust and confidence that parents have in us and we do that by building relationships,” Flusche said.
“We (Canyon ISD) want to build relationships with our parents, our kids, and find out what motivates that child, where their interests, where their passions are and to help every child look at a challenge and accomplish that next level of challenges in their academics or other areas of interests. We’re an avenue to help build on that and certainly communication with parents about those successes is vital.
“We love the idea now and get so much positive feedback from our parents about the kids being connected to the feeder pattern. There was parent … that lives in Amarillo … told me and said, ‘I grew up in a small town and I never thought living in Amarillo where my child would have the exact same school experience … being connected to that high school mascot and a part of that progression of growing up as a Raider, or a Eagle or as a West Plains Wolf.’ … They were thrilled about that.”
Canyon ISD currently has more than 11,000 students attending school at one of the 21 campuses in the school district. There are three high schools – Canyon High School, Randall High School and West Plains High School – that encompasses more than 700 square miles of the district and many different other campuses within those feeder patterns.
Among those 21 campuses, Canyon ISD employs more than 1,700 employees … resulting from administration, faculty, para-professional and maintenance.
Flusche added that with the feeder patterns across Canyon ISD, “there is a sense of community
that is built with our feeder patterns is a great value. And then the fact that it doesn’t matter which high school that the student is in according to where they live, they’re getting the exact same experiences. We offer the same programmatic things, the same opportunities at every high school so the opportunities are there and having a third high school just means more kids have those opportunities.”
Right before the 2018 bond program, Canyon ISD started a long range planning committee that was comprised of 63 people from across the community and district staff. Canyon ISD spent over 150 hours of intense study during six meetings over a nine-month period to discuss the different boundary lines within the school district.
“In that meeting, it was decided that our community liked small high schools,” said Heather Wilson, Canyon ISD Assistant Superintendent of Business and Operations. “Due to the growth at Westover Park, we (Canyon ISD) needed a third junior high, as well as two new elementary schools.
“So with the 2018 bond program, Heritage Hills Elementary School opened in August 2021 on Soncy Road and Spring Canyon opened in August 2021 off West Country Club Road and VFW Road in north Canyon.”
Additionally, Wilson said, West Plains High School opened in August 2022 and Canyon ISD converted Randall East Campus into Randall Junior High School.”
In 2013, Canyon ISD consisted of 9,224 total students. By 2018, those numbers grew to 10,002 and currently, Canyon ISD has over 11,000 students.
In the Randall High School feeder program alone, Wilson said in a previous article, “If we did not open an additional high school, you’re looking at 13 (housing) developments that would be trying to feed into Randall High School.”
Canyon High School’s feeder program, according to Wilson in 2020, was not very far behind Randall High School.
In a Canyon News article in 2020, Wilson noted that their were 11 active (housing) developments that were pulling kids into Canyon High School. What is significant about the home starts for the city of Amarillo?
“Canyon ISD is located in the south part of Amarillo. When we look at the home starts, in 2018, we were about 68 or a little higher of homes that were in Canyon ISD’s boundaries. In those home starts, there were about 125 of them that sat in the Tradewind Estates area. So, some of the things we look at is that when
Tradewinds is completed, some of the other developments in the city limits of Amarillo, as of 2020, are really sitting in Canyon ISD,” Wilson said.
Over the next 20 years, Canyon ISD believes that number will move from 68 to 80 percent of new home starts in Amarillo.
“When you take all of this into account and you also look at the current developments that are sitting in the boundaries of these campuses, as of 2018, Westover Park had a current enrollment of 980 students and Randall High School was at 1,719 students,” Wilson said previously in a Canyon News article.
By 2023-24, the projected enrollment of Westover Park Junior High was
estimated at 1,052 students and Randall High School at 2,034 if Canyon ISD didn’t build the third high school (West Plains) or add another junior high (Randall Junior High).
Flusche said that Canyon ISD encourages parents to visit the 21 campuses and take a tour with the principals and see if “we’re a right fit for them.”
When Canyon ISD was discussing the bond program in 2018, enrollment numbers for Canyon Junior High was at 655 students and Canyon High School was 1,149 students. The projected enrollment in 2023-24 had Canyon Junior High at 663 students and Canyon High School at 1,298 students.
Canyon ISD covers 732 square
miles, and within that number, is the second largest canyon (Palo Duro Canyon) in the United States. So, it’s important that Canyon ISD provides busing opportunities for students to each campus.
In Canyon ISD, it was important that we started a feeder pattern at our intermediate schools, Wilson said.
When a kid starts at Greenways Intermediate, that will be a future Wolf or at Pinnacle Intermediate, they will be a future Raider.
The Canyon ISD Master Planned Feeder Patterns that are total planned for up to 18,600 students will consist of the following:
* Canyon High School: Reeves-Hinger Elementary (Grades K-4), Crestview Elementary (Grades K-4), Lakeview Elementary (Grades K-4), Spring Canyon Elementary (K-4), Canyon Intermediate School (Grades 5-6), Canyon Junior High (Grades 7-8) and Canyon High School (Grades 9-12).
* Randall High School: City View Elementary (Grades K-4), Gene Howe Elementary (Grades K-4), Sundown Lane Elementary (Grades K-4), Pinnacle Intermediate School (Grades 5-6), Randall Junior High (Grades 7-8) and Randall High School (Grades 9-12).
* West Plains High School: Hillside Elementary
(Grades K-4), Heritage Hills Elementary (Grades K-4), Arden Road Elementary (Grades K-4), Greenways Intermediate School (Grades 5-6), West Plains Junior High (Grades 7-8) and West Plains High School (Grades 9-12).
When Flusche arrived at Canyon ISD eight years ago, there were 15 total campuses in the district. Since then, Flusche has been instrumental in the addition of six new campuses, including West Plains High School, which opened in August 2022 on West Loop 335 and Helium Road.
“There’s a lot to be said about that with enrollment growth, housing and subdivision growth and I think there’s a culture and system of values across society in this area that people want to be a part of (Canyon ISD). I think that people can choose where they want their child to be in school and where they want to live and a good number of people are choosing to live in our school district,” Flusche said.
“We feel very fortunate about that, but the same time, a lot of the reasons why people may be choosing to pick their kids in our schools or live in our school system is because they’ve heard that it’s a good school system, they’ve heard that their child will have opportunities for success, they’ve that Canyon ISD schools are higher performing schools. I translate that … I think all of our staff translates that what they’ve heard is now an expectation on our shoulder. We better fulfill what they believe our school district is to be. That means we must perform at a high levels of expectation with our student learning, with the engagement of our kids in college career readiness, all extracurricular activities have to be performing at a high level or else that parent is going to say, ‘what I heard isn’t true.’ Then, we’ve let somebody down and we have no desire to let people down.
“We (Canyon ISD) want to do the very best to keep a high standard … to work with our parents … work with our staff and community so that they can be proud of what this school system provides for our community and our graduates.”
TEXAS OUTDOOR MUSICAL
BY NOLA HOPKINS
When a lone horseback rider carries the Texas flag across the rim of the Palo Duro Canyon, Texas Panhandle history is about the come alive on the Pioneer Amphitheater stage 600 feet below.
Dave Yirak, who had directed the ‘TEXAS’ Outdoor Musical for 15 years, has returned after a three-year absence.
“It is wonderful being back,” Yirak said. “The canyon and show are addicting. I missed the people I
worked with more than anything. The young creative members of the cast and crew are invigorating and keep you young.”
More than 60 actors, dancers and singers tell the story of life in the Texas Panhandle during the 1880’s, much of which is based on the lives of early ranchers Charles and Molly Goodnight.
Tryouts started nationwide in January. The cast and crew rehearse three weeks prior to opening night.
The ‘TEXAS’ Outdoor Musical runs June 6 to August 9, Tuesday through Sunday, except for Shakespeare Tuesdays on July 14 and July 21.
In its 59th season, the idea of a musical set in the scenic canyon was that of Canyon resident Margaret Harper. After reading a 1960 Reader’s Digest article about playwright Paul Green, who wrote historical musicals about regions across the nation, Harper contacted him.
Harper and supporters brought Green to the Texas Panhandle. He researched the area, visited Palo Duro Canyon and then wrote ‘TEXAS’. The musical opened in 1966.
The original musical has been tweaked over the years, but it stays true to the grit and determination of the early settlers. This year’s show has several changes, but one major one is the return of the Patriotic Grand Finale that honors veterans and
those currently serving in the United States of America Military.
Palo Duro Canyon is just 25 miles from downtown Amarillo and 14 miles from Canyon, a Main Street town. Play attendees can enter the state park for free after 4 p.m. and explore the 16 miles of paved road through the canyon before show time.
Although the canyon descends 800 feet, it is accessible for motor homes, fifth-wheel trailers and campers.
A catered chuck wagon brisket/sausage dinner is served from 6:30-8 p.m. Diners eat at long picnic tables shared by other guests, possibly from around the world. Meals must be ordered by 4 p.m., the day before the show one is attending. Dinner is not available on Shakespeare nights, but turkey legs are available in the concession stand.
Pre-show entertainment is on the Prairie Dog Stage from 7-7:45 p.m. in the patio area.
In addition to musicians playing Western folk songs, Benny Tahmahkera, great-great-grandson of Quanah Parker, dressed in full regalia, relates
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tales of Comanche life. He plays the part of Quanah Parker later in the musical.
A gift shop and snack bar with barbecue sandwiches, hot dogs and chips are also open before the production.
The Pioneer Amphitheater opens for seating at 8 p.m., and the play starts at 8:30 p.m. It ends at 10:30 p.m.
Cast members greet guests in the patio area after the performance. Tickets can be purchased online.
This is the second season that “Shakespeare in the Canyon” will perform two Tuesday nights in July. “Taming of the Shrew,” directed by Rachel Dawson, will be this season’s featured play.
TEXAS is the official state play. It has received numerous awards including the American Bus Association’s “Top 40 Attractions in North America” and USA Today’s “Top 10 Must-See Theaters in America.” The musical draws visitors from around the world. It also brings an estimated $34 million a year to the local economy. More than 30,000 guests attend the musical each year.
PPHM OFFERS A WEALTH OF TEXAS PANHANDLE HISTORY
BY NOLA HOPKINS
Atrip through the Panhandle-Plains
Historical Museum is a trip through time in the Texas Panhandle.
From dinosaur bones that were found in local counties, to the Pioneer Town that gives a glimpse into the lives of the area’s early settlers, to the Panhandle Petroleum Story that includes a real oil derrick, visitors will come away with a better view of life in the Texas Panhandle and beyond.
PPHM serves a 25,000 sq. mile radius – perhaps the largest square mileage that a museum serves in the nation. That doesn’t include visitors from across the nation and international visitors nor does it include the fact that PPHM loans artifacts to institutions across the state, nation and world.
The museum serves 75 independent school districts, grades K-12, across the Tri-state area. Some schools get one field trip a year and choose to come to PPHM.
The museum has 2.4 million artifacts. Perhaps only five percent of those artifacts are on display at a time. To share those artifacts, the museum changes exhibit’s yearly, coming up with different themes to connect with public interest. “The Fall and Rise of an American Icon” is a current exhibit about the American bison.
Although some people may not realize it, the museum
also has an unparalleled archives and research center. Ken Burns, famous for his historical documentaries, used the center to research bison for his documentary “The American Buffalo.”
In addition to its numerous exhibits, the museum also offers activities throughout the year to attract visitors.
A tradition for decades has been “Christmas Open House.” Volunteers dress for their roles in Pioneer Town. Elementary school choirs perform throughout the event. Children decorate cookies, make Christmas crafts and take pictures with Santa.
All museum entrances are wheelchair accessible. Handicap parking is provided at the north entrance.
Wheelchairs and strollers are provided free of charge. Accessible restrooms are located at the People of the Plains entrance, in the Harrington Gallery on the first floor, and in the Petroleum Gallery on the second floor.
The Panhandle Plains Historical Museum is located at 2503 Fourth Avenue.
Its summer hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Winter hours are after Labor Day until Memorial Day and are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday. It is closed Sunday and Monday.
NOTE: Currently, the PPHM is closed to the general public until further notice.
NOR THWES T EMERGENC Y
ER EASIER MAKING
At our fr eestanding emer gency depar tment loca tions, we of fer emer gency car e including:
• Treatment for medical conditions such as respiratory distress, fractures, pneumonia, infections, and providing stabilizing treatment for heart attack and stroke
• Full resources and support from the region’s only Level II Trauma Center
• Direct admission to Northwest or arranged transfer to a hospital of your choice
• 24-hour Radiology services (including outpatient, X-ray and CT)
• Cardiopulmonary monitoring
• Respiratory treatments
• Intravenous medication and fluids
• Accepts Medicare, Medicaid, most Blue Cross® Blue Shield® plans and other insurance plans
• Most patients will be seen by a healthcare professional in less than 15 minutes**
PANORAMIC PALO DURO CANYON STATE PARK ONE OF CANYON’S MAIN ATTRACTIONS
BY NELL WILLIAMS
Our area’s main attraction and city of Canyon’s namesake, Palo Duro Canyon, celebrated 100 years in 2023.
A special event, Prairie Palooza – Back to the Future, kicked off the celebration on the weekend of September 16, 2023. The event focused on the past and the future. The park staff has been busy designing a new headquarters to help streamline entrance into the park and provide some great updates, according
to Thomas Milone, Palo Duro Canyon State Park Superintendent.
Last year, a major paving project was completed, repairing much needed areas of the park.
According to Milone, the new Lighthouse parking is not even recognizable.
Workers are in the process of constructing new trail gates at the entrance of main trail systems which allows better communication with guests and to help protect the wonderful resources enjoyed by thousands of visitors.
Brief History of the Park
Various people have inhabited Palo Duro Canyon for about 12,000 years. The Clovis and Folsom people first lived in the canyon, where they hunted large herds of mammoth and giant bison. Other cultures, such as the Apache, Comanche and Kiowa, used the canyon’s plentiful resources more recently.
These early cultures left behind rock art and bedrock mortars, where they ground mesquite beans and roots for food. Park staff asks that visitors help to preserve the past by looking at but not touching any artifacts that they see.
It is believed that Early Spanish explorers probably discovered the canyon, naming it Palo Duro, Spanish word for hard wood. The state of Texas bought the land for the park from Fred S. Emory in 1933.
Soon after, Civilian Conservation Corps workers
Activities to enjoy while staying or visiting in the Canyon.
Adventure seekers can explore the canyon by foot, mountain bike, horse or car. There are more than 30 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails. Visitors can camp, geocache, study nature or bird watch.
During the summer, visitors can enjoy a performance of TEXAS Outdoor Musical.
CAMPSITES & CABINS
Those wishing to stay a while can choose from campsites with water and electricity, tent sites, equestrian sites, or backpack camping areas. Visitors can stay in one of three cabins on the canyon’s rim or four Cow Camp cabins on the canyon floor. One of the pavilions can be rented for a wedding, reunion or meeting.
TRY ‘GLAMOUR CAMPING’ IF ROUGHING IT ISN’T YOUR STYLE
New to Palo Duro Canyon is “Glamping’” (luxury camping)! Each glamping site is fully furnished with air conditioning, luxury rustic furnishings, refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, games, bicycles, gas grills and gas fire pits, covered porches with rockers, porch swings, and much more. There is more information on glamping at Palo Duro Canyon visitors center or website.
arrived, and spent the next five years creating a park, building roads and making camping sites still visible today.
First, they built a camp for their home base, and then they set to work in the immense canyon. The men built the winding road to the canyon floor. Until it was finished, they hiked in and out of the canyon on what is now the CCC Trail.
CCC workers made all of the park’s original improvements, including El Coronado Lodge (now the Visitor Center), the cabins on the rim and canyon floor, and trails. Designers planned the park to maximize views and complement the surroundings. The CCC used local stone and wood for building materials. In addition, workers forged decorative metal and crafted furniture.
The park opened in 1934 before it was complete. It is the second largest park in the state parks system today, with about 28,000 acres.
VISITOR CENTER FOR INFORMATION, BOOKS
The Visitor Center on the canyon rim is a fun way to learn more about the park. The park store at the Visitor Center has books, pottery, jewelry and more. There are more souvenirs, snacks and meals at The Trading Post on the canyon floor.
RANGER PROGRAMS
We offer programs on the park’s history and natural features. Learn about birds or Longhorn cattle, or take a driving tour with a park ranger. Visit our Events page for upcoming programs. Call the park to schedule a group program.
TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR OF THE CANYON
Those who like can take a virtual tour with our Interactive Trails Map. Trails and backpack campsites may close due to wet weather or poor conditions. Contact the park, or check our Facebook page, for trail status.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Many people who enjoy horses enjoy Ride on trails through 1,500 acres set aside for horseback riding. You can also share two other trails with hikers and mountain bikers. Bring your own horses (original Coggins papers required). Park your trailer at the equestrian campground. Bring a water bucket for your horse. Take a guided tour. Old West Stables on the canyon floor leads tours for the whole family to Timber Creek Canyon. They also offer souvenirs and a snack bar. Reservations required; call (806) 488-2180.
CANYON AQUA PARK
The Canyon Aqua Park, located in Conner Park next to Lois Rice Pavilion, will open its sixth summer season in late May.
The CAP offers a lazy river, two speed slides, a splash pad, a children’s play area with a spill bucket and playground, and a multi-purpose pool with diving boards and a basketball goal. The six-lane lap pool ranges from 4 ½ feet 12feet deep with the water lapping over the top of the pool’s edge.
The facility also features an expanded concession stand menu and a CAP radio station for entertainment and summer enjoyment.
The CAP also works with the Canyon Swim Team for its stroke clinic that is offered each summer. Behrens said that the city appreciated the swim team’s help during the bond election that provided the funds to build the CAP.
“They (the Canyon Swim Team) were supporters, that group was, and we use them as a sounding board and even grew that lap pool because they said they needed six lanes instead of four, so we listened to them and listened to that and started watching there specifically for them,” City of Canyon Assistant City Manager Jon Behrens said.
“Now that we’ve done those things, we want to make sure that we find opportunities for them to take advantage and grow their program.”
In previous years, the CAP welcomed United States Olympian Josh Davis for a one-day swim clinic at the CAP. The clinic had approximately 100 swimmers participate and meet Davis.
Admission prices to the CAP and season pass information, the community can visit the CAP website under the City of Canyon page. Swim lesson registration is also available on the CAP website.
Check the CAP Facebook Page and the City of Canyon Website for CAP business hours and other information.
RANDALL COUNTY GROWTH ON THE RISE WITH NEW BUSINESSES
BY NELL WILLIAMS CANYON NEWS CORRESPONDENT
Randall County is managing the growth in the county with the same vision that helped it become such a desired area to live and to have a business.
It has long been the goal of Randall County to bring in more businesses to help defray the taxes paid by citizens. With careful planning and good incentives, the plan seems to be working.
The recent announcement of an expansion totaling $31,500,000 for Affiliated Foods, Inc. (AFI) was music to the county’s ears. According to Kevin Carter, Amarillo Economic Development Corporation, the expansion is expected to bring 50 jobs with an average wage of $50,000 each to the area.
“Affiliated Foods, Inc., has been in a staple in the grocery business since 1946,” according to Carter.
Currently, Affiliated Foods is the
second largest employer in Randall County with 1,600 employees, second to Canyon Independent School District with 2,030 employees. The economic impact is estimated to be $137 million over 20 years.
AFI is a leading wholesale distributor for 770 stores in eight states, including Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma.
The addition will be for an expansion of space for the Panhandle Veg-Pak facility on South Washington and Farmers Avenue which is outside Amarillo city limits. It will
It has long been the goal of Randall County to bring in more businesses to help defray the taxes paid by citizens. With careful planning and good incentives, the plan seems to be working.
Pondaseta Brewing
add a total of 200,000 square feet to the facility and should be completed in late 2024.
Of the 200,000 square feet, 120,000 square feet will be will be across the street from their current location and 9,700 will be at the main campus.
According to Carter, “Affiliated Foods is responding to the rising demand for more healthy eating, such as fruits and vegetables.
“We have some amazing figures that are off the wall for the number of peppers that are distributed daily.”
Construction is currently in progress north of the main facility and is being done by Wiley Hicks Construction.
“The last five years we’ve been able to redo bonds (by paying the debt off early and thus freeing up money in the budget) and saving the taxpayers money,” said Randall County Commissioner Bob Robinson. “Even though we are $50 million in debt, much of our interest rates are less than three percent and some at one percent.”
Randall County, as part of the 13th District, is also known as the most conservative district in United States, according to Robinson.
“That has always been part of our culture,” Robinson said.
CANYON CLINIC PROVIDING THOROUGH FAMILY MEDICAL CARE
BY TERESA YOUNG SPECIAL TO THE HERALD
Staying on top of your health is vital in a world where so many factors make chronic diseases common. That’s why the Canyon Clinic is such an important part of the community and an important cog in the Northwest Texas Healthcare System wheel.
According to Martha Del Toro, Northwest Texas marketing director, having a clinic in Canyon that can serve that city and the surrounding areas is especially important in a time when finding good family physicians can be a challenge in more rural areas. But it can make a huge difference.
“One of the things that has gotten lost over time is that it’s important to have a family physician that knows the family history and is entwined in those conditions that are often hereditary,” said Del Toro. “It helps to have someone that can manage the whole family and knows that history.”
The Canyon clinic is home to two boardcertified family medicine physicians, both of whom are native to the Panhandle area. Dr. Steven Rossi is a Tulia native who worked
there before moving to the Northwest Texas system. He is a graduate of the Texas Tech Medical School. Dr. Koley Pack is a Spearman native and graduate of Texas A&M Medical Schoool, completing his residency at Texas Tech in Amarillo.
Opened in 2015, the clinic is also home to nurse practitioner Diane Srader, and patients can also do lab work and get Botox treatments in-house. All practitioners, noted Del Toro, are also focusing on mental health by connecting well with patients and seeking to spotlight any issues as early as possible.
The clinic can handle a wide breadth of common illnesses and preventive care for comprehensive general health for newborns to the elderly and everywhere in between. They can also help manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and asthma. Should patients have emergency needs outside of regular clinic hours, they can visit the Northwest Emergency Center at Town Square, located at Hillside and Soncy streets and open 24 hours a day.
“Our physicians really like to get to know their patents, and health care really is a relationship. They aim to work with patients
to improve their health. You often hear that people don’t get sick, and when they do they go to urgent care, but they need someone watching them closer to monitor long-term health,” said Del Toro. “You have to feel comfortable to discuss your health with someone, so you’re familiar with the processes and terminology that may come up if something else occurs.”
“One of the things that has gotten lost over time is that it’s important to have a family physician that knows the family history and is entwined in those conditions that are often hereditary...It helps to have someone that can manage the whole family and knows that history.”
The added benefit of being part of Northwest Physicians Group means that there are connections to the full line of specialists should a patient need referral for a higher level of specialty care.
Located at 301 N 23rd Street, Suite C, in Canyon, the clinic is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. They can be reached at (806) 452-5522.
Diane Srader
Chance Pack
Steven Rossi
“CLOSE TO HOME, CLOSE TO PERFECT”
WEST TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY
BY TIM RITTER
West Texas A&M University … on the southeastern portion of Canyon … has often been recognized as “Close to home … Close to perfect.”
Under the leadership of long-time President Dr. Walter V. Wendler, the fouryear regional University has an enrollment of 9,581 students between its Canyon campus and the Amarillo campus.
“My passion for regional university like WT is very strong and having been at national researching universities, this is the most regional university I’ve ever been at,” Wendler said. “We really do want to serve first the (Texas) Panhandle, and along with that, the South Plains and beyond.”
WT was established in 1910 and has since become a top-rank choice for education. WT offers 60 undergraduate, 38 master’s degrees and two doctoral programs.
The average cost of tuition and fees for a student is based on the number of hours enrolled per year. Cost of attendance takes into account an estimated range for an average full-time student course load of 15 hours for undergraduates and 6 hours for graduate students.
“We really do want to serve first the (Texas) Panhandle, and along with that, the South Plains and beyond.”
WTAMU President Dr. Walter Wendler
or marching down Russell Long Blvd., for the WT Homecoming Parade.
Also, WT is a member of the NCAA Division II Lone Star Conference and offers 15 men’s and women’s athletic programs. WT also offers a number of club sports, including bowling and rodeo that are competitive on the national level.
Some of WT’s top traditions include the Eternal Flame, which is located in Victory Circle, and was originally constructed in 1966 at the west entrance of campus by the WT Alumni Association.
Eternal Flame represents the burning desire and quest for knowledge, and is a common symbol for the University.
The mighty Buffalo is the WT mascot and can often be seen galloping at the WT football games
The first WT Buffaloes were purchased in 1922 from the historic herd maintained by Charles and Mary Ann Goodnight on their T-Anchor Ranch.
WT went without a full-time live mascot until 1977. That’s when Thunder was purchased, thus beginning the line of Thunders that continues today.
The mission of WTAMU, according to The Pioneering Spirit … Pursuit of WT 125, is to provide intellectually challenging, reflective, regionally responsive and comprehensive academic programs that discover, interpret, apply and disseminate knowledge for preparing the next generation of citizens in Texas, the nation and the world.
WT is located at 2501 4th Avenue and interested students can visit their website at www.wtamu.edu.
CANYON SENIOR CITIZENS CENTER
BY NOLA HOPKINS
Activities may have changed since the Canyon Senior Citizens Center opened in 1976, but its purpose is still the same … to provide a place for seniors to get together and have fun.
“It gives our seniors a place to come and fellowship; it’s all about fellowship,” said George Hamontree, Treasurer. “It’s not about who wins the games. We are really close … like family.”
Over the years, seniors have quilted, taken
exercise classes, worked puzzles, listened to guest speakers and played cards. The current most popular activity is dominoes. Serious dominoes.
The senior citizens take their time before making a play, quietly contemplating each move. However, when they play the domino game of “80s”, the game is much faster.
Additionally, they have chair aerobics at 10:30 a.m. on Friday.
The 20-25 members meet each Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1719 5th Avenue in the basement of the former
First Presbyterian Church building.
The members bring their own bagged lunches or have special potlucks and holiday meals.
“We heard about Canyon Senior Citizens through our church friends and decided to try it out,” said Patty Mitchell, Vice President.
Mitchell and her husband, Garrett, have attended the center for two years.
“Everyone is so friendly. We enjoy potluck meals, special events, birthday and holiday celebrations and playing dominoes,” Patty Mitchell said.
“The group is like a family. They really care for each other. If any seniors are looking for an outside activity, they should come try us out.”
For Ken Shannon, going to Canyon Senior Citizens is “a chance to get out of the house, and it gives us something to do.”
His wife, Linda, said friendships are important.
“We have become friends with a lot of people,” Linda Shannon said. “If somebody has just moved here, it’s a good way to meet new friends.”
Danna and Ed Hinders are regular attendees.
“You come to see your friends,” Danna Hinders said. “If somebody isn’t here, you see how they are doing and keep in touch.”
Canyon Senior Citizens officers are: Sandra Keith (President), Patty Mitchell (Vice President), Billie Manuel (Secretary) and George Hamontree (Treasurer).
Those who are 55 and older and live in the Canyon area are welcome. Entry is at the side of the building.
For more information about Canyon Senior Citizens, call (806) 655-1032.
NEW SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY OPENS NEAR CANYON AQUA PARK
BY NELL WILLIAMS
Anew, up-to-date living community for seniors officially opened in March 2024 in Canyon.
Canyon Place, a senior independent living community for those 55 and over, is being completed on 17th Avenue and has already booked a number of rooms.
The affordable 72-unit, three-story structure, contains fully furnished apartments with a washer/ dryer, equipped kitchen, microwave, mini-blinds, ceiling fans and new HVAC system.
Amenities on the property include a fitness center, party room, game and craft room, maintenance, security and allows two pets with a one-time pet fee. Residents can also have service animals or emotional support animals for no fee.
According to Executive Director Carrie Eisenhauer,
Canyon Place has spacious, energy efficient one-or- two-bedroom apartment homes with open floor plans. An on-site staff offers 24-hour emergency maintenance at a reduced cost which varies depending on the number of occupants and income.
“We have designated ADA areas for handicap units but all of ours are made for people with mobility restrictions and are wheelchair and walker accessible. There is a stand-up shower with shower seat and grab bars,” Eisenhauer said.
“All areas will be energy efficient and sanctioned through a state agency to maintain exceptional standards. It is all electric and the resident pays for electric but not water trash and sewage.”
Panhandle Community Services will work with those who have vouchers to transport them to doctors’ appointments, shopping and they have a free bus service which residents should qualify for.
“It is part of an IRS Section 42 program,” Eisenhauer said. “For instance, one person would have to make under $32,220 to qualify. Our Social Services will provide healthy living classes where we talk about nutritional cooking in our full kitchen.
“We’ll have crafting, bingo and cards for our residents to enjoy. There’s shuffleboard, a pool table, croquet, all kinds of activities. It also helps that their mail is delivered inside.”
Fees are structured on a sliding scale depending on income and number of family members and bedrooms. They have a Facebook with videos and will be having an Open House soon.
For more information, those interested can call Canyon Place at 806-672-9932.
Bus: 806-655-7104
kenny.dean.jhre@statefarm.com
CANYON 101
HEALTHCARE
Family Medicine Center & Care Express
911 23rd St. (806) 655-2104
www.fmcclinics.com
- 7 days a week, 8am - Midnight
Faith Medical Clinic
1205 23rd St #6 (806) 557-4674
www.faithmedicalclinic.org
- Gloria Fuller serves as the Family Nurse Practitioner
Northwest Texas Physician Group
301 N 23rd St. Ste C (806) 452-5522
www.nwtpg.com
M-F 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Texas Tech Physicians Obstetrics & Gynecology 3404 4th Ave Unit D (806) 414-9944
M-F 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
DERMATOLOGISTS
Canyon Dermatology 1101 4th Ave. (806) 655-7155
Palo Duro Dermatology 2005 N 2nd Ave. Ste. D (806) 510-3376
PHYSICAL THERAPIST
Canyon Physical Therapy 907 23rd St. (806) 655-6824
CHIROPRACTORS
Canyon Chiropractic 2306 7th Ave. (806) 655-2373
Dr. Nancy Hinders
Fuller Chiropractic & Wellness
1205 23rd St., Suite1 (806) 452-8011
Dr. Stephen Fuller
Kershen Chiropractic 1613 4th Ave. (806) 655-8777
Dr. Russell Kershen
Raef Chiropractic Clinic 402 15th St. (806) 655-1108
Dr. Kevin Raef and sons. 806 Chiropractic 10140 US Hwy 60 (806) 452-7575
Dr. William Braudt
DENTISTS
Dental Group of Canyon 710 23rd St
806-358-7633
Dr. Amy Stephenson
Dr. Brian Wilson 1801 4th Ave (806) 655-1104
Dr. Kenneth A. Crossland 2000 4th Ave (806) 655-4181
Full Smile Dental Group Of Canyon 2808 4th Ave Ste B (806) 557-4085 Orthodontists
Sparkman Orthodontics 2 Glorieta Dr. (806) 355-9732
EYE CARE
Advanced Eye Care 1801 4th Ave. (806) 655-7748
Dr. Kevin Appel, Dr. Lauren A. Salazar and Dr. Aaron Stephenson
Epsy Vision 3406 4th Ave Ste B (806) 884-2743
Dr. Amanda Sappington
BANKS AND CREDIT UNIONS
CITY SERVICES
- Canyon’s City Hall
301 16th St.
- City of Canyon Business Office (806) 655-5003
Water, trash and sewer services
- Canyon Police Department (806) 655-5005
Local traffic tickets and citations for Class C misdemeanor offenses
Animal control officer
- Randall County Finance Building 501 16th St.
- Tax assessor-collector (806) 468-5540
- Voter Administration (806) 468-5539
- Precinct 1 Justice of the Peace (806) 468-5606
Traffic fines and other citations given within the precinct
- Randall County Justice Center 2309 Russell Long Blvd. County and district clerks’ offices
- Electricity Xcel Energy (800) 895-1999
-Natural gas Atmos Energy (888) 286-6700
-Cable Optimum (806) 358-4801
AUTO CARE CLUBS AND CIVIC SERVICE
- Canyon Lions Club, Canyon’s largest civic club, meets at noon Wednesdays at Cole Community Center on 300 16th St. Anyone is invited to join the club.
- Canyon Elk’s Lodge 2887, If you are a member of our Canyon community and want to give back to our great community, the new Canyon Elk’s Lodge 2887 might be your new organization. Lodge 2887 meets on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 22000 FM 2590, Soncy Road, Canyon TX 79015. Meetings start at 6:30 p.m. Contact Ed Yeats at 303-748-8280 or Tim Parker at 806-671-5121 today for membership information. Canyon Elk’s Share – Canyon Elk’s Cares.
- Canyon Masonic Lodge promotes community welfare through helping those in need. Membership dues are collected annually and meetings vary according to schedules. For information, call (806) 655-3001.
- Jim Wilson Duplicate Bridge Club and the University Bridge Club, both of which meet at First United Methodist Church on 1818 Fourth Ave. Jim Wilson meets at 10 a.m. Mondays and University at 11 a.m. Wednesdays. Residents are invited to attend either or both of these bridge clubs.
- Canyon Rotary Club: The club meets at noon Tuesdays in the Buffalo Club Room at First United Bank Center.
- Canyon Communications Speech Club: is open to anyone who would like to improve his or her communication or public speaking skills. The group meets for a bag lunch at noon Mondays in the University Church of Christ fellowship hall on 3400 Conner Dr. on the south side of the building. Guests and members give short orations, and members critique each other in a good-hearted but educational manner. For information, call (806) 655-0251.
- Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 430, offers alcohol-free, smoke-free, family-oriented opportunities for fellowship and service. Each year, the organization hosts several special events and has monthly meetings on the first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the VFW hall on VFW Road northwest of Hunsley Park. Potluck meal served every third Thursday. For more information, call Sid Ricks at (806) 655-0284.
Having car trouble is not pleasant, especially if you’re away from home, but Canyon auto shops make fixing the problem a pleasant experience.
For oil changes, tire repair or more serious problems, or even updating that state inspection sticker, contact one of these shops to get you back on the road:
Canyon Tire Company, 711 23rd St, (806) 655-7189
Crabtree Automotive and Lube Center, 201 N 11th St., (806) 655-4434
Consumer’s Supply Service Station, 100 W 1st Ave., (806) 655-2134
Monkey Wrench Auto Repair, 510 23rd St., (806) 655-3171
Muffler House and Automotive, 21636 City Lake Rd., (806) 499-3556
Take 5 Oil Change, 1201 23rd St., 655-0852, (806) 655-9891
Tireworks Tire Pro, 212 N. 15th St., (806) 452-8403
Toot’n Totum, 31 Hunsley Rd., (806) 452-7800
Wal-Mart SuperCenter, 1701 N. 23rd St., (806) 656-0597
Woodard’s Garage, 2309 8th Ave., (806) 655-7759
CHURCHES
- Anchor of Hope 1208 8th Ave.
- Arena of Life Cowboy Church 8827 S. FM 1541 (Loop 335 and Washington). Worship services at 10 a.m. Sunday. Wednesday night service and GRIT youth group for ages 12-18 at 7 p.m.
- Bethel Baptist Church 1925 10th Ave. Worship services begin at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Sunday.
- Bible Believers Baptist Church 12200 Rockwell Rd., 3 miles west of Interstate 27. Bible study begins at 10 a.m., and worship services are at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Sunday. A Bible study is conducted at 7 p.m. each Wednesday.
- Calvary Baptist Church 800 8th St. Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. and worship service at 10:40 a.m. Sunday. Wednesday 10:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
- Canyon Country Church 26000 FM 3331, Canyon
- Canyon Primitive Baptist Church 1701 2nd Ave. 10:30 a.m. the first, second and third Sundays of the month.
- Canyon First Assembly of God 2318 13th Ave. Life enrichment classes at 9:30 a.m. and celebration services at 10:40 a.m. Sunday. Bible study at 7 p.m. on Wednesday and youth at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday.
- Christ Family Fellowship Church
700 4th Ave. Service at 10 a.m. Sunday.
- Church of Christ Canyon Hills Canyon Expressway and Buffalo Stadium Road. Adult and children’s Bible studies at 9:45 a.m. Sunday. Morning worship begins at 10:30 a.m. and afternoon worship at 1:30 p.m. Sunday. Wednesday evening services at 7 p.m.
- Church of God of the Firstborn 1521 Fourth Ave. Services at 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Sunday and 7:30 p.m. Wednesday. Prayer meetings at 9 p.m. Monday –Saturday.
- Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
63 Hunsley Rd. Canyon Ward Sacrament meeting at 9 a.m. and Amarillo Young Single Adult Branch Sacrament meeting at 11 a.m. Sunday. Wednesday night youth activities at 7 p.m.
- Covenant Fellowship Church 8501 Coulter. Worship at 10:30 a.m. Sunday.
- Faith Community Church 2706 Fourth Ave. Classes are held at 10 a.m. and worship services at 11 a.m. Sunday. Evening services are at 6:00 p.m. Sunday. Bible study begins at 7 p.m. Wednesday.
- First Baptist Church 1717 Fourth Ave. Sunday worship service, 10:30 a.m.; Bible study for all ages, 9:15 a.m.; Adult, University, youth and children’s programs are conducted throughout the year.
- First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
2011 Fourth Ave. Sunday school at 9 a.m. and morning worship at 10:15 a.m. Sunday. Bible study at 10:30 a.m. Monday. GLORY night 6:30 p.m. Wednesday for fellowship, meal and Bible study.
- First Presbyterian Church 904 19th St. Worship is at 10:30 a.m. Sunday; Wednesday Night Live! At 6 p.m.; monthly adult fellowship at various homes.
- First Methodist Church 1818 Fourth Ave. 8:30 a.m. and 10:50 a.m. traditional service, 9:40 a.m. Sunday school for all ages, and 10:50 a.m. contemporary service on Sunday. A variety of adult ministries, youth and children’s programs are offered. A user-friendly library is available.
- First United Truth Center 1319 Fifth Ave. Sunday services at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wednesday meetings at 7:30 p.m.
- Freedom Fellowship Church 55 Hunsley Rd. Sunday worship at 10 a.m. Amp’d student ministries for junior and senior high students at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday. Various groups meet during the week.
- Hillside Christian Church of Canyon
1800 23rd St. Service times at 9:30 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. Sunday. Youth at 7 p.m. Wednesday.
- Jehovah’s Witness 5141 Canyon Dr., Amarillo.
- Living Water Christian Fellowship
10100 W. Hwy. 60. Sunday school at 9 a.m. and worship at 9:00 and 10:30 a.m. Sunday. Kidzone and Momentum at 6 p.m. Wednesday.
- New Beginnings Full Gospel Church Meets at Cole Community Center on 300 16th St. Worship services at 10:45 a.m. Sunday.
- Oasis Southwest Baptist Church
8201 Canyon Dr. Worship service on Sunday at 8:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. Sunday night Bible study at 6 p.m.
- Palo Duro Cowboy Church Hwy. 60, three miles west of Canyon. 9:30 a.m. campfire coffee and 10:30 a.m. cowboy church.
- Palo Duro Canyon Church in the canyon. June – August. Old West Stables.
- Pathpoint Fellowship Church 6215 Canyon Dr. Services at 10:30 a.m. Sunday. Youth services at 7 p.m. Wednesday.
- Rockwell Road Baptist Church Interstate 27 and Rockwell Rd. Sunday school at 10 a.m. with services at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday and 7:00 p.m. Wednesday.
- St. Ann’s Catholic Church 605 38th St. Weekend schedule: Mass at 5 p.m. Saturday and 9:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Sunday. Christian formation is at 10:20 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. Sunday. Confession is at 4:15 – 4:45 p.m. Saturday.
- St. Mark’s Anglican Church 1205 23rd St Ste 3B. Sunday service at 10:00 a.m. Eucharist. Wednesday Bible study at 6:30 p.m.
- St. Paul Lutheran Church 2600 Fourth Ave. Sunday school at 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. church services Sunday; University Bible fellowship at 6:00 p.m. Sunday and all college students are welcome.
- Second Avenue Church of Christ 1701 Second Ave. Sunday services at 10:30 a.m.
- Summit Church 2008 12th Ave. Worship experiences at 9:15 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday. Services held at 7 p.m. on first Wednesday of each month.
- Trinity Fellowship Church 5000 Hollywood Rd. Service times are at 5:30 p.m. Saturday and 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday. Nursery and children’s ministries are provided for all services.
- Twenty-First St. Church of Christ 6th Ave & 21st St. Canyon. Sunday worship at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday worship at 7:30 p.m
- University Church of Christ 3400 Conner Dr. Bible class at 9:30 a.m. and morning worship at 10:25 a.m. with evening worship at 6 p.m. Sunday. Wednesday devotionals and children’s classes start at 7 p.m. (times change with season)
RESTAURANTS
13/30 Coffee, 201 26th St
Acai Bar, 1519 4th Ave
Bear’s Burgers & Dawgs, 2001-A North 2nd Ave.
Best Thai Restaurant, 210 23rd St.
Braum’s, 1101 23rd St.
Buenos Dias, 1202 23rd St.
Buffs, 2201 4th Ave
Burger King, 1301 23rd St.
Cake Company, 1502 5th Ave.
Chicken Express, 2106 N. 2nd Ave.
Creek House Honey Farm, 5005 4th Ave.
Dominos, 301 N. 23rd St Ste. B
Double Eagle Grill & More, 50 Country Club Dr El Tapatio, 2301 12th Ave.
Feldman’s Wrong Way Diner, 2100 N. 2nd Ave.
Flex Nutrition, 204 23rd St.
Got Donuts, 601 23rd St.
HTeaO, 504 23rd St.
Hero Nutrition, 1911 4th Ave
Hudspeth House H&H
Coffee, 1905 4th Ave
Hil’s Burgers, 1302 23rd St.
Joe Taco, 502 15th St.
Journey Coffee, 3406 4th Ave.
Jack B. Kelley Food Court (WTAMU campus)
King and I, 104 15th St.
La Bella Pizza, 700 23rd St.
Little Ceaser’s Pizza, 306 23rd St.
Mama DeLuca’s inside
Walmart, 1701 N. 23rd St.
McDonald’s, 200 23rd St.
Mickey’s Place, 1512 5th Ave.
PLACES TO SHOP IN CANYON
Ace Hardware, 900 23rd St
Burrowing Owl, 419 16th St.
Canyon Popcorn Co., 2304 4th Avenue
Canyon’s Edge Plants, 1401 5th Ave
Creation’s by MikEE Jewelry, 1607 4th Ave
Creek House Honey Farm, 5005 4th Ave.
HR’s Flowers & Gifts, 2010 4th Ave.
Lavender Lane, 414 15th St.
Luxe Lane, 419 16th St.
Marsha Clements Art, 1608 4th Ave.
Palo Duro Canyon Visitor & Gift Center, 11450 Park Rd 5.
Palo Duro Canyon Outfitters, 1601 4th Ave.
Panhandle-Plains Historical
Museum Gift Shop, 2503 4th Ave.
Pink Cadillac Boutique, 307 Country Club Dr.
Ranchers Storefront, 1505 4th Ave.
ReUze It Again, 1513 4th Ave.
Restoration Chic, 2316 4th Ave.
Runningwater Dry Goods, 418 15th St
Ruthette’s, 1517 4TH Ave.
Sad Monkey Mercantile, 9800 TX - 217
Stevens Flowers & Gifts, 1515 4th Ave.
TEXAS Musical Ticket Office & Gift Shop, 1514 5th Ave.
Palace Coffee Company, 420 15th St.
Pepito’s Mexican Restaurante, 408 23rd St.
Pizza Hut, 110 23rd St.
Pondaseta Brewing Co., 1001 2nd Ave.
Pony Express Burritos, 2808 4th Ave. Unit C
Ranch House Cafe, 810 23rd St.
Rockin’ Zebra Soda Shoppe, 404 15th St.
Robinson’s BBQ, 104 23rd St.
Sayakomarn’s Thai and Lao Cuisine, 419 16th St.
Schlotzsky’s Deli, 901 23rd St.
Sonic Drive-In, 1007 23rd St. Subway, 102 N. 23rd St.
Subway inside Walmart, 1701 N. 23rd St.
The Purple Zebra Boutique, 404 15th St.
The Rack Boutique, 1609 4th Ave.
The Sport Zone & Blessed Buffalo Boutique, 2306 4th Ave.
Thompson’s Gift Shop, 405 16th St.
United Supermarkets, 201 N 23rd St.
Walmart, 1701 N 23rd St.
Weathered Elements, 1521 4th Ave.
West Texas A&M University Bookstore, 101 25th St.
West Texas Western Store, 1206 23rd St.
Tabletop Tavern Game Café, 410 15th St.
Taco Bell, 611 23rd St.
Taco Villa, 110 N 23rd St.
TeaN’ergy, 501 23rd St.
Texas Rose Steakhouse, 2811 4th Ave.
Thai Kitchen, 713 23rd St.
The Lumberyard Canyon, 850 N. 23rd St.
This Little Piggy Serves
Food LLC, 19501 Chaparral Rd.
United Supermarket Deli, 201 23rd St.
Whataburger, 100 N 23rd St.
Wendy’s, 407 23rd St.
West Texas Sports Grill, 1512 5th Ave Ste 204
Wingstop, 501 23rd St Unit 6
GROCERY STORES
United Supermarket
201 23rd St.
Offers groceries, a bakery, floral shop and pharmacy
Fully cooked meals also can be purchased at the deli area
Wal-Mart Supercenter 1701 N. 23rd St.
Everything from groceries to the latest fashions
Dollar General
400 Harrell Ln.
Groceries, cleaning supplies, cards, clothing and miscellaneous items
Dollar Tree
315 N. 15th St
Groceries, cleaning
supplies, cards, clothing and miscellaneous items
LODGING
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites
2901 Fourth Ave.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites, which consists of 66 guest rooms, offers numerous amenities, including spacious rooms, executive whirlpool suites and family options. The hotel begins each day with a unique express-start breakfast bar. Guests can enjoy free high-speed Internet, on-site self-laundry facilities, an indoor pool, spa and exercise room. Visitors can stay “plugged in” via new technology. Family pets are also welcome guests. Special rates are available for groups, celebrations and family gatherings. To make reservations or secure additional information, individuals are asked to call (806) 655-4445 or go online to www.hiexpress.com.
Hampton Inn & Suites Canyon 3101 4th Ave.
Hampton Inn and Suites Canyon offers 91 guest rooms with a combination of Suites for both family and business guests. Guests can enjoy a Full Hot Complimentary Breakfast, Free WiFi, EV Charging, a Business Center, and Streaming TV access. Our fitness center boasts state of the art equipment. The meeting room can accommodate large groups for baby showers, bridal showers, weddings, seminars, trainings, etc. Relax on our patio with a fireplace or take a dip in our indoor pool. Come and enjoy our full-service bar that can cater to any of your events! Additionally, there is an on-site laundry facility, a 24/7 Market, and all guest rooms have refrigerators and microwaves. For Reservations call (806) 452-0044 or visit us online at https://www.hilton.com/
en/hotels/amacthx-hamptonsuites-canyon/.
Palo Duro Best Western Inn and Suites
2801 Fourth Ave.
Guests in the 55 modern suites and rooms can take advantage of an indoor pool and hot tub, high-speed Internet connections (wireless and hard wire), free local calls, in-room hair dryers and coffee makers, DVD/VCR and free HBO/ CNN/ESPN cable hookups. The hotel is pet friendly. To make reservations or secure information, individuals may call (806) 655-1818.
Buffalo Inn
300 23rd St.
Cable, HBO and ESPN television service, along with free high speed wireless Internet, are among the free services offered to patrons of the Buffalo Inn at 300 23rd St. Located across the street from the WTAMU campus, the facility is near the museum and a number of eating establishments. Free summer breakfast is available, along with a refrigerator and microwave. Groups are welcome and winter weekly rates and senior citizen discounts are offered. For reservations or information, call (806) 655-2124 or (800) 526-9968 or go online to www.buffaloinncanyontx.com.
Buffalo Junction Guest Home
1818 Fifth Ave.
This guest home is located in the heart of Canyon within walking distance to the downtown square and West Texas A&M University. The house was built in 1920 and has high ceilings and original wood floors. The kitchen has everything you need to make a home-cooked meal, and there is also a laundry room with
a washer and dryer for your convenience. Cable TV and WiFi are provided, as well as a book nook, DVD collection, board games and outdoor games. Outdoor space offers seating and a barbecue grill. For reservation or information, call (806) 570-4508.
Hudspeth House
1905 Fourth Ave.
The historic Hudspeth House was built in 1909 and operated as a boarding house for some faculty at West Texas Normal College, now recognized as West Texas A&M University. Mrs. Hudspeth, who was among the first faculty at the college, hired a cook and entertained students and staff. Artist Georgia O’Keefe ate her meals in the house during her two years on staff at the college. The home later was owned by private individuals and became a bed and breakfast in 1987. It is now the most unique lodging accommodation in Canyon, offering seven beautifully appointed rooms. Rates range from $105-$155 per night and include a delicious full breakfast. Call (806) 6559800 or go online at www. hudspethinn.com to make reservations.
Starlight Canyon Bed & Breakfast
100 Brentwood Rd.
Starlight Canyon Bed & Breakfast sits on the northern branch of the Palo Duro Canyon, surrounded by a green oasis with nearly 100-year-old elm trees and skirted by the colorful canyon walls. The three cabins offer guests a relaxing and romantic getaway. The bed and breakfast also serves as a wedding venue. Call at (806) 622-2382. On weekend mornings, Starlight Canyon
offers a hot, home-cooked breakfast delivered to rooms to allow guests to stay in the comfort of the cabins. During the week, a continental-style breakfast with homemade cinnamon rolls is available. Check-in time is from 4 – 6 p.m., but arrangements can be made if guests make a request. Check-out time is 11 a.m., but many guests find it hard to leave. For an additional $55, a late checkout can be accommodated.
The Cottage Guest Home 2010 Third Ave.
The Cottage Guest Home, built in 1948, is like a home away from home. It is located two blocks from West Texas A&M University and is also near many shops. Amenities include household conveniences such as a guest snack basket, linens, towels and wash cloths, toiletries, a blow dryer, a front load washer and dryer, laundry soap and dryer sheets, robes, a Keurig coffee machine and coffee, high-speed Internet, cable television, a DVD collection and a kitchen furnished with all one needs to whip up a meal. Fun things to do include a hot tub, a patio and grill, a garden sitting area, four bicycles, a game closet, an outdoor washers board and a book nook. Special packages are priced in addition to nightly rates.
The honeymoon/romantic getaway includes a choice of wine or sparkling cider, a cheese and cracker tray, and a scented candle tray for bedroom or hot tub area. The girls’ weekend package offers a paraffin wax treatment, facial masks and an ice cream and toppings set-up. The couples’ vision retreat allows for time to step away from busy schedules and refocus.
To make reservations or for more information, call (806) 223-3233, or go online to http://www. thecottageguesthome.com.
For those who would rather “rough it,” the Canyon area has three RV parks. Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers primitive and backpacking camping sites, four primitive cow camp cabins and a trio of threequarter century old cabins with canyon views.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park Sites at Palo Duro Canyon are available by phoning (512) 3898900 for reservations.
Available are:
- Primitive and backpacking cabin, four persons, $12
- Campsites with electricity and water, four persons, $20
- Four primitive cow camp cabins, no water, two persons, $55
- Three 1930s-era cabins with views of the canyon: Lighthouse and Goodnight, $100; larger Sorenson cabin, $115. Each has restrooms. Four persons. Pets allowed.
RV PARKS
Palo Duro Mobile RV & Mobile Home Park, I-27 and Texas 217; phone 488-2548.
West Rim RV Park - Located at state park entrance; 488-2241; nightly charges and special rates for senior citizens, military, police and firemen; gift shop and convenience store open at 8 a.m. Woodall’s - U.S. Hwy. 60; west of Canyon.
Palo Duro Lodging RV Park –24501 Hix Rd, 806-680-3401
The Silos at Canyon RV Park19671 City Lake Rd
GOLFING
Palo Duro Creek Golf Course
50 Country Club Dr. (806) 655-1106
Public golf course
Weekday green fees: $25 during the day and $18 after 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday; Weekend green fees: $30 during the day and $20 after 3 p.m. Friday through Sunday; Seniors over 60: $21 on weekdays and $26 on weekends; Juniors 18 and under: $15; Full-time college students age 24 or younger: $21 on weekdays and $26 on weekends; Annual permits: $1080 for an individual, with additional individuals in the family added for $360 each; Student senior permit: $240 for high school seniors and younger good June through August; Senior citizen permits: $690 for single weekday play
Features of the course include a practice range and green and a golf shop
Canyon Country Club
19501 Chaparral Rd. (806) 499-3397
Semi-private golf course, which is open to the public
Member guest green fee: $17 for 18 holes or $11 for 9 holes Monday through Thursday; Weekend green fees: $20 for $18 holes and $11 for 9 holes; Seniors, Monday through Thursday, $14 for 18 holes; Non-Member green fee: $20 for 18 holes or $11 for 9 holes Monday through Thursday; Senior green fee $14 for 18 holes Monday through Thursday.
To get to the Country Club Golf Course, travel west on the U.S. Highway 60 for about two miles, turn right at the club sign, and travel one more mile to the club house.
*All rates subject to change.
CLEANERS
Modern Cleaners 411 16th St 806-655-3611
U.S. Cleaners 2005 N 2nd Ave. Ste A 806-452-8022
LAUNDRY
Buffalo Laundry 1302 23rd St.
32 washers and 13 dryers
Cost to wash a load is $1.50
The dryers cost 25 cents for every seven and a half minutes
Chairs and tables available
Palo Duro Laundry 2312 9th Ave.
28 washers and 18 dryers
Cost to wash a load is $1.50
The dryers cost 25 cents for every seven and a half minutes
