From educators earning statewide recognition to community events and public safety updates, here's a look at some of the latest news from around the Panhandle. These briefs highlight notable achievements, upcoming opportunities and important announcements affecting area residents.
Hereford Teachers Earn Region 16 Honors
Two Hereford ISD educators have been named the Region 16 Education Service Center's 2027 Teachers of the Year. Almadelfina Trejo DeLeon was selected as Elementary Teacher of the Year, while Kevin Weaver earned Secondary Teacher of the Year honors through a blind, multi-stage selection process. Both will advance to represent Region 16 in the 2027 Texas Teacher of the Year competition, with state winners to be announced in October. The Texas Teacher of the Year program recognizes exceptional classroom leadership and teaching excellence.
Community Invited to Celebrate Veteran's 100th Birthday
World War II veteran Wiley Tow of Amarillo will celebrate his 100th birthday Aug. 14, and the community is invited to help mark the milestone by sending birthday cards. His public celebration will begin at 2 p.m. at the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home. The Veterans Land Board's "100 for 100" program encourages Texans to honor residents of state veterans homes celebrating their 100th birthdays with cards and well wishes.
Motorcyclist Killed in Interstate 40 Crash
A 38-year-old Ohio man died in a crash Tuesday on the Interstate 40 frontage road near Arnot Road. The Texas Department of Public Safety identified the victim as Kyle Edward Blazer of Chillicothe. Investigators said Blazer's motorcycle collided with a Ford Fusion after failing to yield the right of way as the car entered the eastbound I-40 entrance ramp. The car's driver and a teenage passenger were treated for minor injuries and released.
Former Kress Secretary Sentenced in Theft Case
A former City of Kress secretary has been sentenced to three years of probation after pleading guilty to stealing city funds. Heidi Ann Tiffin, 47, admitted to theft of property valued between $2,500 and $30,000 stemming from a 2021 incident while employed by the city. She also was ordered to pay about $3,566 in restitution, along with approximately $1,380 in fines and court costs. Her probation includes community service, a theft class, travel restrictions and other court-ordered conditions.
Blood Center Seeks O-Negative Donors
Coffee Memorial Blood Center is urging residents with O-negative blood to donate as supplies remain critically low. O-negative blood is used in emergencies when there isn't time to determine a patient's blood type. Donation appointments take about an hour and can help save up to three lives. Walk-ins are welcome, and healthy donors age 16 and older are eligible to give.
Sheriff's Office Accepting Citizen's Academy Applications
The Potter County Sheriff's Office is accepting applications for its 18th Citizen's Academy, which begins Sept. 3. The 12-week program gives participants an inside look at law enforcement operations through classroom instruction, demonstrations and hands-on activities. Applicants must pass a background check and have no criminal record, though residency in Potter County is not required. Graduates will even have the opportunity to experience being tased.
