There's no shortage of activity across the Texas Panhandle, from one of the region's biggest annual celebrations to updates in public safety, healthcare and city government. Here's a quick look at five stories making local headlines.
XIT Rodeo & Reunion Returns to Dalhart
Dalhart's 90th XIT Rodeo & Reunion gets underway Thursday at the Rita Blanca Coliseum and runs through Saturday. The event began as a reunion for former XIT Ranch cowboys and has grown into one of the Panhandle's largest annual celebrations. Each evening features PRCA rodeo action, while Dustin De La Garza, Jason Boland & The Stragglers and Josh Weathers headline the weekend's concerts. Saturday's lineup also includes the traditional street parade, the World's Largest Free BBQ and the Queen's Coronation. Visitors can also enjoy the XIT Museum Open House, the Empty Saddle Fun Run and an arts and crafts show throughout the weekend. The annual celebration continues to honor the area's ranching heritage while bringing the community together.
Two Arrested in Thompson Park Shooting
Amarillo police have arrested two teens in connection with a June shooting at Thompson Park. Authorities identified the suspects as 18-year-old Nicholas Picasso and a 15-year-old juvenile, who each face two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. The juvenile was booked into the Youth Center of the High Plains. Picasso was booked into the Potter County Jail on June 11 and also faces charges of driving while intoxicated with an open container and resisting arrest. He has been denied bond on the aggravated assault charges and remains in custody awaiting further court proceedings. Police said no additional charges are expected at this time.
Shelter Campaign Seeks Homes for 300 Pets
The City of Amarillo Animal Management and Welfare Department is hoping to find homes for 300 pets during this month's Clear the Shelters campaign. Adoption fees for all adult dogs and cats are reduced by 50 percent through Aug. 29 as the shelter works to reduce overcrowding. Last year's campaign resulted in 346 adoptions. The month wraps up with the Pokémon-themed "Gotta Adopt 'Em All!" Crescendo Event on Aug. 29. Every adopted pet goes home spayed or neutered, microchipped and current on age-appropriate vaccinations. Residents can view available animals online or stop by the shelter to meet pets ready for adoption.
Texas Tech Physicians, UnitedHealthcare Reach Agreement
Patients with UnitedHealthcare insurance will continue receiving in-network care through Texas Tech Physicians after a new agreement was finalized with the insurer. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and Texas Tech Physicians announced the agreement prevents any lapse in commercial and Medicare Advantage participation. The contract is retroactive to April 1, 2026, ensuring uninterrupted coverage. Negotiations began in early 2025 for clinic locations in Amarillo, Lubbock and the Permian Basin. Officials said maintaining patient access to care remained their top priority throughout the process. Patients with scheduled appointments do not need to make any changes and should keep their appointments as planned.
Amarillo Council Sets Budget Workshop Schedule
The Amarillo City Council has scheduled a series of budget workshops for the 2026-27 fiscal year. The sessions will begin at 8 a.m. Aug. 11, 13 and 14 in the City Hall Council Chambers. The Aug. 11 meeting will be a half-day workshop, while the remaining sessions are scheduled to run all day. Council members and city staff will review the proposed city budget and discuss funding priorities for the coming year. All workshop sessions are open to the public. Residents who cannot attend in person can watch the meetings live on the city's website or YouTube channel.
