The Amarillo 5

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

WWII VETERAN CELEBRATES CENTENNIAL: Charles Elliot, a World War II veteran and resident of the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo, turned 100 years old on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. The community rallied around him, delivering more than 5,000 birthday cards for his centennial celebration. Elliot served as a Private First Class rifleman in Japan during WWII and received the Bronze Star for his service [1].

PERRYTON MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO CAPITAL MURDER: A Perryton man has pleaded guilty to killing a 4-year-old girl and setting her room on fire. He was sentenced to life in prison for the capital murder conviction [8][9].

BOYFRIEND INDICTED IN CHILD'S DEATH: Christopher Thomas Ale, the boyfriend of a former Amarillo woman, was indicted by a grand jury for capital murder in the death of the woman's 3-year-old son [1][4].

VEHICLE FIRE DOWNTOWN: One person was evaluated by emergency medical services after a vehicle caught fire in the parking lot of the Santa Fe Building at 900 S. Polk in downtown Amarillo on Wednesday afternoon, March 4, around 3 p.m. Firefighters extinguished the blaze, but two other vehicles received minor damage. The Potter County Sheriff's Office is investigating [5].

DEAD ANIMALS ILLEGALLY DUMPED: The Castro County Sheriff's Office is investigating the illegal dumping of dead animals near Nazareth. Sheriff Sal Rivera confirmed the animals were not domesticated or livestock. Juvenile suspects have been identified, and the Texas Game Warden is assisting with the case. The matter will be presented to the District Attorney's Office once the investigation concludes [4].

Weather:

SEVERE STORM THREAT THURSDAY, MARCH 5: The Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles are under a conditional severe weather threat Thursday afternoon and evening. The Storm Prediction Center warns of very large hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes, particularly across the eastern and southeastern Texas Panhandle [2].

OVERNIGHT HAIL STORM: Many Amarillo residents were awakened around 12:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 4, by hail pounding roofs and windows. The heaviest hail, measuring up to two inches in diameter, fell in areas west and east of Amarillo, including around Coulter. The storm was caused by a cold front moving from the south/southeast northward [6].

FIRE DANGER PERSISTS: Despite the storms, drought conditions continue to worsen. A red flag warning is in effect Thursday from noon to 8 p.m. for Cimarron and Dallam counties, while the rest of the region remains under a fire weather watch Friday due to breezy winds and low humidity [6].

RECOMMENDED PREPARATIONS: Residents should monitor weather reports, enable phone alerts, and have multiple information sources ready. The National Weather Service notes storm season appears to be starting earlier this year, making preparedness critical [6].

Events:

PRIMARY ELECTION RESULTS: Over 35,000 residents of Potter and Randall counties voted in the March 3, 2026 primary elections. Democratic ...

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

Fatal Highway Collision: An Amarillo truck driver was killed early Saturday morning, February 28, 2026, after his vehicle struck a herd of cows on U.S. 82 east of Nocona [2, 3]. The crash occurred at approximately 4:35 a.m. [2].

Major Drug Seizure: Court documents released on February 27, 2026, revealed that suspects involved in a high-speed police chase through Amarillo discarded approximately $566,000 worth of methamphetamine before being apprehended [1].

Child Abuse Arrest: An Amarillo man was taken into custody after court documents filed on February 27, 2026, alleged he used his hands to break a child's bone [1].

Police Chief Departure: Amarillo Police Chief Martin Birkenfeld has retired effective Friday following a suspension for writing a letter of support for a former coach convicted of federal child sex crimes [7]. The City Manager is currently finalizing a separation agreement [7].

Weather:

The forecast for the upcoming week shows a significant warming trend. Residents can expect sunny conditions with a high of 70°F today, climbing to 85°F by Tuesday [7]. However, a cold front is expected to bring temperatures back down to the low 40s by Thursday and Friday [2, 5].

Emergency Preparation: Xcel Energy recently completed a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) affecting over 15,000 customers in the Panhandle due to extreme wildfire risks and high winds [8]. While power has been restored, residents are advised to maintain an emergency kit and stay tuned to local channels (KAMR Local 4 or Fox 14) for sudden shutoff notices if high-wind conditions return [8].

Events:

High Plains Dairy Conference: This biennial event is currently taking place at the Embassy Suites Hotel in downtown Amarillo (March 3-5, 2026) [2]. The conference is critical for local producers to discuss the labor crunch, milk price outlooks, and new dairy technology [2]. Registration typically requires a professional fee, but it serves as a primary networking hub for the region's massive dairy industry [2].

TPBA Annual Home & Garden Show: The Texas Panhandle Builders Association is hosting its annual showcase at the Amarillo Civic Center

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

MASSAGE BUSINESS RAIDED: Amarillo Police Department executed a search warrant at Jenny Spa, located at 1324 SE 10th Avenue, on February 24, 2026, as part of an investigation into illicit sexual activity and prostitution. The Narcotics and Task Force Officer unit collected evidence during the raid, and the City of Amarillo Fire Marshal's Office subsequently shut down the building. Police stated that identities of parties involved will be released once formal charges are filed [1].

AMARILLO MAN ON MOST WANTED LIST: Jeffery DeWayne Wallace, an Amarillo man with more than 20 prior arrests, has been added to the Texas Department of Public Safety's "Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives" list. Wallace has an extensive criminal history including domestic violence charges [2].

SWAT STANDOFF RESOLVED: Douglas Ross was arrested following a domestic disturbance that escalated into a SWAT standoff at 1115 Prescott Street. Ross faces three charges: assault causing bodily injury to a family member, interference with an emergency request for assistance, and evading arrest [3].

PANHANDLE MILLING CONTESTS OSHA VIOLATIONS: Panhandle Milling is contesting OSHA violations issued after a deadly explosion at its flour mill in Dawn, Texas, that killed 36-year-old Melissa Mungia. The company was fined $39,721 for violations including failure to maintain an employee alarm system, improper handling of fugitive grain dust accumulations, and using compressed air to unclog lines while ignition sources were present [4].

Weather:

BLOOD MOON LUNAR ECLIPSE: Early risers across the Texas Panhandle can witness a rare total lunar eclipse on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, when the full moon will turn a deep red color. If weather cooperates, this celestial event will be visible in the early morning hours. The next total lunar eclipse visible in the region won't occur until June 25, 2029 [5].

RECORD-BREAKING WINTER: Meteorological winter 2025-26 has gone down in the record books as the warmest and one of the driest winters ever recorded across the Texas Panhandle [6]. Current conditions show temperatures in the mid-50s to mid-70s range for the week [7].

Events:

BOYCE-SNEED FEUD DESCENDANT SPEAKER: A descendant of a key figure in the famous Boyce-Sneed Feud will speak at West Texas A&M University. This historical presentation offers insight into one of the Texas Panhandle's most notorious family feuds. Check WT's event calendar for specific time and location details [8].

local business:

PANHANDLE MILLING FACING OSHA FINES: Following the deadly February explosion that killed one employee, Panhandle Milling is contesting $39,721 in OSHA fines. The violations cited include inadequate alarm systems, improper grain dust management, and unsafe work practices during milling operations. The company has formally contested the violations [4].

school:

CRESTVIEW ELEMENTARY SAFETY MEASURES: Canyon officials are prioritizing additional safety measures around Crestview Elementary School. The community has identified the I-27/State Highway 217 intersection as a top safety concern, though it currently does not qualify for SS4A (Safe Streets and Roads for All) funding. Local leaders are exploring alternative funding sources to address the safety issues

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

TRAILER HOME FIRE SENDS MULTIPLE TO HOSPITAL: Multiple people were transported to the hospital after an early morning trailer home fire at 2310 NW 2nd Ave. The fire started around 4:15 a.m. on Sunday, March 1. When firefighters arrived five minutes later, they found the trailer fully involved. Fortunately, the occupants had already escaped. A second alarm was called due to the close proximity of other trailers. Crews had the fire under control by 4:32 a.m. The occupants were treated on scene and taken to the hospital for further observation [1].

BORGER POLICE AND AMARILLO LAW FIRM IN BODYCAM DISPUTE: The Borger Police Department and an Amarillo law firm are at odds following the public release of allegedly altered body-worn camera footage involving an arrest made on Feb. 25. The arrested man's family formally requested the footage, which was denied via letter on Feb. 26. On Feb. 27, Borger PD released the footage on social media, with a portion presented in slow motion. On Feb. 28, the law firm Stockard Johnston Brown Netardus & Doyle, P.C. released a public statement condemning the police department's actions [2].

THREE U.S. TROOPS KILLED IN IRAN CONFLICT: President Trump confirmed three U.S. service members were killed in action and five seriously wounded during Operation Epic Fury, a joint U.S.-Israel strike on Iran. This marks the first U.S. combat casualties of Trump's second term. Trump stated, "America will avenge their deaths and deliver the most punishing blow to the terrorists," and warned that more casualties are likely [3]. Additionally, three U.S. F-15E Strike Eagles were mistakenly shot down by Kuwait air defenses during the operation [4].

AUSTIN MASS SHOOTING UNDER TERRORISM INVESTIGATION: Three people are dead and 14 injured following a mass shooting at Buford's on West 6th Street in Austin early Sunday. The FBI is investigating the possibility of terrorism after authorities found "indicators" on the gunman and in his vehicle. The suspect wore clothing with "Property of Allah" and an Iranian flag emblem [5]. Governor Abbott stated, "This act of violence will not define us, nor will it shake the resolve of Texans," and warned that Texas will respond with decisive force to anyone using the Middle East conflict to threaten the state [6].

Weather:

ROLLERCOASTER TEMPERATURES TO START MARCH: Amarillo is experiencing dramatic temperature swings this week. Currently 37°F with partly cloudy skies. Monday will reach 75°F with mostly sunny conditions. Tuesday jumps to 83°F with partly cloudy skies, then drops to 69°F by Wednesday [7]. No severe weather events are forecast for the next week. Residents should prepare for significant temperature variations and dress in layers.

Events:

AMARILLO SYMPHONY 'ROMANCE AT THE SYMPHONY': The Amarillo Symphony held a 'Romance at the Symphony' performance recently. Check the Amarillo Symphony website for upcoming performances and ticket information [8].

TEXAS A&M AGLS VISIT: The Texas A&M College of Agriculture & Life Sciences made a stop in Amarillo over the weekend, providing access, information, and resources to prospective students interested in agricultural programs [9].

AMERICAN QUARTER HORSE MUSEUM RENOVATIONS: The American Quarter Horse Museum continues progress on renovations. This ongoing project will enhance the visitor experience at this important Amarillo cultural attraction [8].

local business:

No major business openings, closings, or promotional events were reported in today's findings. Check back for updates on local business developments.

school:

TEXAS A&M OUTREACH: Texas A&M's College of Agriculture & Life Sciences visited Amarillo ov...

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

DISCOVERY CENTER SHOOTING: Amarillo Police are investigating a second shooting in one month at the Discovery Center parking lot. The latest incident occurred over the weekend near a playground area, leaving blood stains in the parking lot. As of Sunday, no arrests have been made and the incident remains an active investigation [1][2][5].

DRUG CHASE: A woman tossed a duffle bag of methamphetamine out of a car window during a high-speed police chase from Claude to Amarillo. Court documents obtained by ABC 7 detail the incident [1][2].

INDICTMENT: A Potter County grand jury has indicted Antonio Rotramel, 45, of Amarillo for online solicitation after he was accused of trying to have sex with an 11-year-old girl [1][2].

WORLD NEWS IMPACT: US-Israeli strikes on Iran have resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei. Tens of thousands of air travelers are stranded worldwide as Middle Eastern airports closed following the attacks. The U.S. State Department warns Americans to exercise increased caution [4][5].

Weather:

Current conditions show temperatures at 46-47°F with a warming trend ahead. Monday is forecasted to reach 75°F and Tuesday 82°F [3][5].

WILDFIRE PREVENTION: Heavy grass and drying winds have prompted controlled burns to reduce wildfire risk near the Amarillo airport and refinery. Residents in affected areas should stay alert to burn operations and follow local guidance [1][2].

Events:

WWII VETERAN BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION: Charles Elliot, a resident of the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home and WWII veteran, turns 100 on March 4. He has requested 100 birthday cards for his 100th birthday. Cards can be sent to the veterans home to help celebrate this milestone [1]

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

WHO: Oscar Fernandez Jr., 19, and Antonio Rotramel, 45 [4].
WHAT: A Potter County grand jury has issued indictments in two separate cases involving crimes against children. Fernandez is accused of injury to a child for allegedly breaking a child's leg with his bare hands. Rotramel was indicted for online solicitation of a minor for allegedly attempting to have sex with an 11-year-old girl [4].
WHERE: Potter County, Amarillo, Texas [4].
WHEN: Indictments were reported on February 27, 2026 [4].

Weather:

Residents should prepare for elevated fire weather conditions this week. Heavy grass and drying winds have prompted local authorities to conduct controlled burns to reduce wildfire risks near the airport and local refineries [4]. A webinar on wildfire prevention and property protection is also being promoted to help residents prepare for the upcoming dry season [2]. In the event of high wind warnings or red flag alerts, residents are advised to avoid outdoor burning and secure loose outdoor items [2][4].

Events:

Boyce-Sneed Feud Presentation
Time/Place: West Texas A&M University (WT), February 25-28, 2026 [3].
Price: Generally free to the public/students [3].
Importance: A descendant of a key figure in the famous Boyce-Sneed Feud will speak, providing a rare historical perspective on one of the Panhandle's most notorious historical conflicts [3].

local business:

HomeTowne Studios Amarillo West
Red Roof has officially opened this 54-room extended-stay property at 6800 I-40 West. The facility features renovated rooms with full kitchens and is part of a dual-branded site with the Red Roof Inn Amarillo West [1].
General Office Supply 75th Anniversary
Date/Time: Celebration and ribbon cutting held at their local office [2].
Details: The event features a history of the company, product displays from Steelcase, and food from Yolo’s Food Truck to mark seven and a half decades of service in Amarillo [2].

school:

Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA): Over 600 applications have been submitted from the Amarillo...

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

MAJOR DATA CENTER MILESTONE: The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has approved a major milestone for Fermi America's proposed 11 GW AI data center, granting the nation's second-largest Clean Air permit for Project Matador on Feb. 25, 2026 [1][7]. The approval comes after requests for rehearing and reconsideration were denied [7].

EPSTEIN FILES TIE TO AMARILLO: Newly unsealed documents tied to Jeffrey Epstein mention Amarillo 24 times, with references ranging from land leases and campaign donations to equipment purchases and bank transfers involving local firms including Roberts Truck Center, Amarillo National Bank, and SV Enterprises [1][2].

CHILD ENDANGERMENT ARREST: Sarah Ileta Zepp, 40, was booked into the Randall County Jail on Feb. 25, 2026, charged with attempting to smother her child [2].

TEEN HOSPITALIZED AFTER CHASE: A 14-year-old boy is hospitalized after leading Moore County Sheriff's Office on a high-speed chase in a stolen car on Feb. 26, 2026 [2].

CONTRABAND ATTEMPT FOILED: Security cameras captured a failed contraband hand-off between an inmate and his wife at the William P. Clements Unit near Amarillo. A 58-year-old woman is accused of attempting to bring in contraband [1].

HIT-AND-RUN INDICTMENT: A 25-year-old Amarillo man has been indicted for a hit-and-run involving a mail carrier [1].

BEEF JERKY HEIST SENTENCING: A 30-year-old Amarillo man will spend several months in state jail for theft in what authorities described as a beef jerky heist [1].

Weather:

FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT: A Flood Watch is in effect for all of the Panhandles through Wednesday night due to flooding potential from heavy rainfall [6]. Residents should be prepared for possible flash flooding in low-lying areas and avoid driving through flooded roadways.

TUESDAY FORECAST: Showers and possibly a thunderstorm expected. High near 62°F with east-southeast winds around 15 mph, gusting as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80% with new rainfall amounts between 1 and 2 inches possible [6].

EMERGENCY PREPARATION: With the Flood Watch in effect, residents should monitor local weather alerts, avoid travel during heavy rainfall periods, and ensure drainage areas around homes are clear of debris.

Events:

JBS CACTUS FACILITY EXPANSION CELEBRATION: JBS will celebrate its expansion at the Cactus facility on Feb. 27, 2026 [8]. This expansion represents significant economic development for the region's meat processing industry.

NEWMEXICO STATE POLICE 5K: New Mexico State Police are holding a 5K in honor of murdered officer Justin Hare [2]. The event commemorates the officer ...

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

ARSON SENTENCING: A 23-year-old woman has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for intentionally setting a fire that displaced four people in Amarillo [1]. The sentencing brings closure to a case that significantly impacted multiple families in the community.

FERMI AMERICA DATA CENTER APPROVED: The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) approved air quality permits Wednesday for Fermi America's proposed data center power plant, marking a significant step toward completing what is being described as the world's largest data center [7][8]. The approval comes after contested hearings and represents a major economic development milestone for the Amarillo area.

POSTAL CARRIER HIT-AND-RUN INDICTMENT: A Randall County grand jury has indicted Hunter David Boyd, the driver accused of hitting a postal carrier and fleeing the scene during January's winter storm [7][8]. The indictment moves the case forward in the judicial process.

WILDFIRE UPDATE: All wildfires in the Texas and Oklahoma panhandles are now 100% contained [7][8]. The Ranger Road Fire in Beaver County, the largest of the blazes, burned for a week before full containment was achieved.

RANDALL COUNTY EMERGENCY MEETING: Randall County Commissioners have called a special meeting for Thursday, Feb. 26 [6]. The emergency session suggests urgent county business requiring immediate attention.

Weather:

Clear and pleasant conditions are expected across the Amarillo area over the next several days [6][7]. Current temperatures are in the mid-40s to low-60s, with Thursday forecasted to reach 72-76°F under mostly clear skies. Friday continues the warming trend with sunny conditions and highs reaching 76-79°F [6][7]. No significant storm systems or severe weather threats are indicated in the immediate forecast, making this an ideal week for outdoor activities.

Events:

RANDALL COUNTY COMMISSIONERS SPECIAL MEETING
When: Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026
Where: Randall County Commissioners Court
Importance: Emergency meeting called to address urgent county matters; residents encouraged to attend or monitor proceedings [6].

CANYON ISD LANGUAGE FESTIVAL
When: Recently held
Where: Canyon ISD facilities
Details: The annual festival hosted 450 students from 10 schools, celebrating linguistic diversity and cultural education in the region

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

WASTEWATER SPILL REPAIRS UNDERWAY: The City of Amarillo is conducting repairs after an unauthorized discharge of 100,000 gallons of treated wastewater was discovered on Feb. 23 at 9:45 a.m. in a non-residential area approximately one-half mile south of the Harrington Power Generation facility and one-half mile west of Lakeside Drive. The cause was a broken air relief valve, and repairs are expected to be complete within 48 hours. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has been notified. City officials stated no public or private drinking water sources are within one-half mile of the spill location, and the water had been fully treated and disinfected, posing no environmental hazard [1][2][3].

HOUSE FIRE IN NORTHEAST AMARILLO: An early morning structure fire on Feb. 24 caused significant damage to a single-family home in the area of Currie Lane and Northeast 20th Avenue. The Amarillo Fire Department responded at 4:17 a.m. and declared the fire under control by 4:57 a.m. No injuries to civilians or firefighters were reported. The Amarillo Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause [4].

US 60 REOPENED AFTER TRAIN SEARCH: US 60 at the Randall/Deaf Smith County line was temporarily closed while law enforcement searched a train for an armed suspect. The search turned up empty, and the highway was reopened just before 1 p.m. on Feb. 24 [5].

WILDFIRE STATUS UPDATE: As of Feb. 24, one wildfire continues burning in the Oklahoma panhandle, and one new fire has started in Texas. The Stevens Fire in Texas County, Oklahoma is 12,428 acres and 100% contained. The Willard Fire in Dallam and Sherman counties, Texas is 546 acres and 80% contained with forward progress stopped [6].

Weather:

Amarillo is experiencing one of the warmest winters on record, with record heat baking the High Plains region [7]. Red flag warnings persist across the area due to ongoing wildfire danger. Fire crews continue patrolling the Canadian Bridge Wildfire burn area as conditions remain hazardous [8]. Residents are advised to avoid outdoor burning and remain vigilant about fire safety. No significant precipitation is forecast for the immediate future, which continues to elevate wildfire risk across the Texas Panhandle.

Events:

TRANSIT PLAN FEEDBACK MEETINGS: The City of Amarillo's Transit Department is soliciting feedback for its newest coordinated transit plan. Two stakeholder meetings are scheduled: Feb. 24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Feb. 26 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Transfer Station at 509 S. Bowie St. The draft plan identifies gaps in service and residents are encouraged to attend and provide input [9].

TEXAS ROUTE 66 FESTIVAL PREVIEW: A sneak-peek into the Texas Route 66 Festival celebrating the centennial is coming to Amarillo, featuring international caravans and a 400-foot mural based on local stories. This major event will highlight Amarillo's connection to the historic highway [10].

local business:

NORTH HEIGHTS LINEN SERVICE SOLD: North Heights Linen Service, LLC has been sold to Canadian company Ecotex Healthcare Linen Service. According to a press release from the board of directors, the current staff will be retained. Members of the establishing boards hope the sale will continue to benefit the North Heights neighborhood [11]

Amarillo Texas Local News 

Breaking news:

STRUCTURE FIRE SOUTH OF AMARILLO: Randall County Fire Department responded to a grass fire in the 100 block of Loma Linda around 2:22 p.m. on Tuesday, February 24. One outbuilding was lost and a home was damaged before crews brought the fire under control by 3:30 p.m. Residents were asked to avoid the area while responders remained on scene [1].

NORTH HEIGHTS LINEN SERVICE SOLD: North Heights Linen Service, LLC has been sold to Canadian company Ecotex Healthcare Linen Service. According to a press release from the board of directors, all current staff will be retained in the transition [2][3].

CITY COUNCIL APPROVES BUS SHELTERS: The Amarillo City Council approved the purchase of four bus shelters for the North Heights neighborhood in a 4-0 vote on February 24. The $61,000 purchase will be funded through Neighborhood Planning Initiative Funds and will include solar-powered lights and benches [4].

Weather:

Amarillo is experiencing one of the warmest winters on record, with record heat baking the High Plains region [5]. Red flag warnings persist across the area, indicating continued elevated fire danger. Fire crews continue to patrol the Canadian Bridge Wildfire burn area as these dangerous fire weather conditions remain in effect [5]. Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and exercise extreme caution with any activities that could spark fires during these conditions.

Events:

RAISE YOUR HAND TEXAS WORKSHOP: "Beyond the Falling STAAR: A Workshop on How Schools are Graded" will be held Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Amarillo Area Foundation, located at 919 S Polk St. Refreshments will be served at 6 p.m. RSVP is available online [2].

TRANSIT PLAN FEEDBACK MEETINGS: The City of Amarillo's Transit Department is soliciting feedback for its newest coordinated transit plan. Two stakeholder meetings are scheduled: February 24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and February 26 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Transfer Station at 509 S Bowie St [2].

TEXAS ROUTE 66 FESTIVAL: Preparations are underway for the Texas Route 66 Festival celebrating the centennial, featuring international caravans and a 400-foot mural based on local stories coming to Amarillo [2].

local business:

BSA HOSPITAL NEW EQUIPMENT: BSA Hospital unveiled a new PET/CT scanner for its main hospital on Monday. The new scanner combines metabolic imaging with detailed anatomical imaging, allowing doctors to more accurately detect, diagnose and monitor conditions like cancer and heart disease [2].

NORTH HEIGHTS LINEN SERVICE TRANSITION: The sale of North Heights Linen Service to Ecotex Healthcare Linen Service marks a significant business transition in the community, with the Canadian company committing to retain all current employees [2][3].

school:

AMARILLO COLLEGE AUDIT FINDINGS: The Amarillo College Board of Regents Chair addressed findings of an independent forensic audit that was prompted by dwindling reserves. The college's business VP has resigned amid the financial audit [2][6].

WTAMU SPRING CAREER EXPO: West Texas A&M University hosted its annual spring Career and Internship Expo, connecting students with employment opportunities [4]. Additionally, WTAMU has opened its newly remodeled Geneva Schaeffer Education Building [2].

AMARILLO ISD HEALTH SUCCESS: Tobacco use has dropped by nearly 50% among Amarillo ISD students, marking a significant public health achievement for the district [6].

The Roundup:

ARSON CONFIRMED IN WILDHORSE FIRE: The Texas A&M Forest Service has confirmed arson as the cause of the 'Wildhorse' fire that burned 60 acres in north Amarillo. The fire, which started around 12:40 p.m. on February 9 in the wooded area that used to be Amarillo Lake, threatened 10 structures with two houses in the 1300 block of NW 9th catching fire. Amarillo ISD evacuated North Heights Alternative School as a precaution [7].

'MOTHER OF NORTH HEIGHTS' HONORED: Edna Neal, known as the "Mother of North Heights," was recognized for her dedication to serving others in the community. She received a $300 gift from Carpet Tech through the Pay It Forward program to continue her service to the neighborhood [8].

AVIAN FLU TESTING: Hundreds of birds picked up in Amarillo are being tested for Avian flu as authorities monitor the situation [2].

References

1. https://www.myhighplains.com/news/local-news/crews-work-structure-fire-south-of-amarillo-tuesday/
2. https://amarillotribune.org/2026/02/24/in-brief-feb-24-2026/
3. https://amarillotribune.org/2026/02/24/north-heights-linen-service-sold-to-ecotex-healthcare-laundry-services/
4. https://www.myhighplains....