Amarillo Texas Local News - April 25, 2026

Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: Cal Farley's Boys Ranch Opens New Transitional Living Facility — A new facility designed to help alumni transition from students to independent adults has opened at Cal Farley's Boys Ranch. The program aims to support youth aging out of residential care as they move toward independence. Benjamin "Ben" Maeder, who started at the Ranch in sixth grade, shared his experience as part of the announcement [1]. Amarillo Cenikor Discontinues Inpatient Services — Cenikor, a nonprofit providing drug rehabilitation and mental health services, has announced it will discontinue detox, residential, and recovery housing services in Amarillo due to a reduction in HHSC funding in the Texas Panhandle. The announcement came in September 2025 [2]. New Rehabilitation Hospital Coming to Amarillo — Encompass Health and BSA Health System announced a joint venture to operate a new 50-bed rehabilitation hospital in Amarillo. The facility aims to address critical healthcare needs in the Texas Panhandle, offering physical therapy and advanced technologies [3]. APD Chief Finalists Announced — The City of Amarillo has announced finalists for the police chief position, including Greg Stevens, who has over 37 years of combined experience in civilian and military service. Stevens previously served as Chief of Police in Lubbock and Rockport and currently leads the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) [4]. Weather: No significant weather events are currently highlighted in the research findings. Residents should monitor local forecasts for any updates. Previous reports noted drought conditions intensifying in the Panhandle region and fire weather risks [5]. Events: The Panhandle Gives — This community fundraising initiative launches Monday and runs through December 2. Every dollar donated helps strengthen local organizations. Donations can be made online during the giving period [6]. Route 66 Bookstore Crawl — Six Amarillo bookstores are participating in this year's Route 66 Bookstore Crawl, offering residents a chance to explore local literary destinations [7]. Local business: Skooter's Coffee has launched a new line of shakes and other drinks just in time for spring and summer. The local coffee chain is promoting the new beverage options for the warmer season [8]. Encompass Health and BSA Health System have partnered to open a new rehabilitation hospital in Amarillo. The 50-bed facility will provide physical therapy and advanced rehabilitation services to address critical healthcare needs in the Texas Panhandle [3]. School: Badger Bound Program Expands — The Badger Bound program has expanded to more school districts, providing additional educational opportunities for area students [6]. Texas School Choice Bill Now in Effect — Over 800 bills from Texas's 89th Regular Legislative Session went into effect September 1, including the "school choice" bill. Other new laws affect library councils and increased election fraud penalties [9]. Local Student Athlete Signings — Caprock senior Cailyn Lott has signed with Eastern New Mexico for track and field. Highland Park quarterback Josh Marler has signed with Oklahoma Panhandle State [5]. The Roundup: Fermi America Leadership Changes — Toby Neugebauer has departed as Fermi America's CEO, and Chief Financial Officer Miles Everson has resigned. The company has seen additional leadership changes in recent months