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The Salvation Army is looking for Amarillo volunteers for Red Kettle, Angel Tree
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The Salvation Army is looking for Amarillo volunteers for Red Kettle, Angel Tree

Calling all volunteers: The Salvation Army needs your help to make a difference this Christmas

While some may think it’s still a little early to unpack holiday decorations, the Salvation Army said it has been hard at work planning Christmas programs for several months. As red kettles appear outside stores and Angel Trees are set up, volunteers are needed to ensure that men, women and children in need throughout the community experience the joy of Christmas.

The Salvation Army of Amarillo is looking for volunteers to support both their Red Kettle campaign and Angel Tree program. “Volunteers are essential to the success of our Christmas programs again this year,” said Maj. Tex Ellis, of the Salvation Army in Amarillo, in a news release. “Whether you can spare an hour or two, a morning or a whole day, you can make an impact in your local community by volunteering with the Salvation Army. We promise to put you to work, and at the same time, you’ll have a fulfilling time knowing you’re part of something good that will help others in need.”

With Bell Ringers, every dollar raised in the Red Kettle supports the Salvation Army’s year-round social service programs right here in Amarillo. Ring a Salvation Army Red Kettle; shifts start in just two hours and you can call alone, with family or with friends and colleagues. Volunteers are needed now through December 24, Monday through Saturday. To register, visit www.RegisterToRing.com and follow the instructions to register for the location and tour of your choice. or contact Wendy Lara at (806) 373-6631.

The Salvation Army will provide gifts to more than 1,050 children through the Angel Tree program this year, which also needs volunteers to work at Angel Tree adoption locations, sort gifts and participate in gift day for registered families. Churches and businesses can also host an Angel Tree to bring joy and holiday cheer to children in the community. Volunteers are needed now through the Angel Tree distribution day, which is set for December 18th. To volunteer, contact Lara at (806) 373-6631 or by email at [email protected].

Visit www.salvationarmyamarillo.org, call (806) 373-6631 or visit them at 400 S Harrison St. to donate or learn more.

Furry Friend: Rocky

The community was invited to support the local nonprofit Wesley Community Center at McDonald’s on Tuesday

Amarillo Area McDonald’s is teaming up with Amarillo’s Wesley Community Center (AWCC) for the next McDonald’s Gives Back Day, which is scheduled for Tuesday, November 19th. That day, a portion of sales at participating McDonald’s locations, including stores in Amarillo, Canyon, Borger, Dalhart and Dumas, will benefit the local non-profit organization.

AWCC provides educational, recreational and spiritual activities for children, youth and adults of all backgrounds, according to a news release. “This is the second time the Wesley Community Center has been the recipient of Gives Back Day because we truly believe in their mission,” explains Stephanie Khayat, marketing coordinator for McDonald’s. “This wonderful neighborhood center helps people realize their self-worth while finding ways to maximize their individual potential, and that’s something we will always support.”

Founded in 1951, AWCC meets the needs of our community by providing programs and services for people of all ages and backgrounds. “We are proud to offer low-cost or free childcare, after-school programs, summer camps and senior programs to the people of our community,” says America Adame, executive director of the Amarillo Wesley Community Center. “We also strive to help those who need counseling services by offering individual therapy and play.”

Since McDonald’s Gives Back began in 2020, more than $107,000 has been donated to local nonprofits, including Amarillo Angels, Heal The City, The Ronald McDonald House of Amarillo, Court Appointed Special Advocates, Opportunity School, Downtown Women’s Center, Tower Center, Wesley Community Center, High Plains Food Bank, Los Barrios de Amarillo, Faith City Mission and the 100 Club of the Texas Panhandle.

Amarillo HS becomes the first school in the Panhandle to be named to the AP School Honor Roll

Amarillo High School is the first school in Amarillo ISD and the Panhandle to be named to the Advanced Placement Program (AP) School Honor Roll, earning the bronze distinction, according to a recent announcement.

The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools that are doing outstanding work to get more students into AP classes. Schools can earn this recognition annually based on criteria that reflect a commitment to enhancing college culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness. In AISD, students enter the AP pathway in middle school, which expands to 26 AP course options in high school. AHS also won the AP Access Award for its “clear and effective commitment to equitable access to advanced courses.” Amarillo High School had 40 percent of seniors take at least one AP exam during high school, 28 percent of seniors score a 3 or higher on at least one AP exam, and 14 percent of seniors take five or more many AP exams.

“This award is the direct result of teachers intentionally inviting students to take their advanced courses,” said AHS Principal Andrea Pfeifer. “This is a fantastic example of teachers working together, setting high expectations for students while supporting students to achieve unprecedented results.”

Other AISD high schools have similar goals for their campuses. Of AISD’s three other high schools, Palo Duro came closest to meeting the criteria for this year’s AP School Honor Roll, meeting markers for college culture and college optimization, but falling short on the credit indicator for college.

The WT Horse Judging team scored at the AQHA World Show

CANYON — The West Texas A&M University horse judging team placed third in a highly competitive annual competition. In addition, the team earned second place in performance and grounds at the American Quarter Horse Association World Show, held Nov. 10 in Oklahoma City.

“I am incredibly proud of this team for winning third place in this competition,” said Dr. Christy Petry-Adams, Clinical Assistant Professor of Animal Science and Horse Judging Coach. “This placement is a testament to their dedication, hard work and talent.”

Most recently, WT’s team took home a championship at the National Arabian Horse Judging Contest on Oct. 25 after back-to-back reserve championships earlier in the season. The team will compete on November 22 at the National Cutting Horse Association Futurity.

Southwest AMBUCS hosts 2024 Gobble Wobble

Southwest AMBUCS is hosting the 17th Annual Turkey Gobble Wobble, which began on October 1st and runs through Monday, November 18th.

All turkeys will be available for pick up from their trailer located at Westgate Mall or by delivery starting Thursday, November 21st.

By donating $100, the participant will receive an Edes Meats smoked turkey (12-14 lb. cooked) and purchase a frozen turkey to help feed a family in need and support the local effort to inspire mobility and independence through the program their AmTryke, all-inclusive parks and therapy scholarships. Those wishing to participate can purchase a turkey on their website, www.southwestambucs.org/events/gobble-wobble/ or by phone at 806-681-5135.

A discount will be given for any purchase of 10 or more turkeys.

City of Canyon opens housing rehab applications

CANYON – The City of Canyon Housing Rehabilitation Program is now accepting applications for projects through 2025. The city plans to fund three projects with up to $25,000 each in its first year.

The newly initiated program targets substandard properties owned and occupied by low- to moderate-income households, a city news release said, with the goal of fixing code violations and hazardous situations and providing adequate air conditioning.

“Canyon’s Home Rehabilitation Program is an incredible opportunity for homeowners to improve the safety, comfort and value of their homes while preserving the unique character of our community,” said Canyon Director of Planning and Development Lucas Raley. “By providing financial assistance to eligible residents, this program addresses critical housing needs, ensures that low- to moderate-income families live in safe and healthy environments, and promotes neighborhood revitalization. This investment in existing housing stock is a significant strategy that will uplift our residents and strengthen the community for generations to come.”

To apply, residents must complete the pre-application form to determine eligibility for the program. Those deemed eligible will be invited to complete a full application form once eligibility has been verified. More information, a pre-application and donation platform for the Canyon Housing Rehabilitation Program can be found at www.CanyonTX.gov/HousingRehab.