From service academy applications and drought restrictions to animal management concerns and a new four-legged member of a local nonprofit, several developments are making news across the Texas Panhandle. Here’s a look at some of the latest community updates.

Service Academy Nomination Applications Open for Class of 2031

The office of U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson announced Monday that applications are open for students seeking nominations to U.S. service academies for the Class of 2031. Candidates must submit all required materials by Oct. 2, 2026.

Jackson can nominate students from Texas’ 13th Congressional District for appointments to the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy at West Point and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Jackson encouraged qualified students interested in leadership and service to apply. More information is available through Jackson’s office at 806-641-5600.

Dimmitt Implements Stage 1 Drought Plan

The City of Dimmitt has implemented Stage 1 of its Texas Water Drought Contingency Plan amid mild water shortage conditions. The stage calls for a consistent 25% reduction in daily water demand.

Residents are being asked to limit water use on lawns and gardens, and the Dimmitt Splash Park has been closed until further notice. City officials warned that if water consumption is not reduced, Stage 2 could be implemented and bring additional regulations on water use.

Amarillo Animal Management Addresses Stray Dogs, Packs

Amarillo Animal Management and Welfare officials are raising concerns about public safety issues involving stray animals and dog packs. Interim AMW Director Brandi Bullock told the department’s advisory board last week that field officers respond to reports by attempting to locate and capture animals and identify their owners or origins.

When dogs repeatedly return to an area but cannot initially be captured, AMW can use directed patrols or dog traps, which must be chained to private property with the owner’s permission because traps have recently been stolen. Bullock said staffing shortages can limit responses during periods of high call volume and encouraged residents to provide photos, descriptions, locations and information about dogs’ travel patterns. AMW has requested two additional field officers and the reclassification of three existing training positions as part of the 2026-27 budget.

100 Club Welcomes First Canine Member

The 100 Club of the Texas Panhandle has welcomed its first-ever canine member. Rocket, a retired bomb-detection K9, received a lifetime membership in the organization.

Rocket’s owner, Randall Curtis, is a retired first responder and a member of the 100 Club. The retired K9 now sports a 100 Club Lifetime Membership sticker on his travel kennel.

WT Police Looking for Aggravated Assault Suspect

West Texas A&M University police are searching for a suspect following an aggravated assault reported Tuesday night on campus.

Police said the incident occurred around 9 p.m. in the Zone 16W parking lot near the residence halls. Victims told officers that a man armed with a gun accused them of cutting him off in traffic.

The suspect is described as being in his late 20s or early 30s with a dark brown beard and wearing a red plaid shirt. He was reportedly driving an early 2000s red or maroon Ford extended cab pickup with stickers on the rear passenger window.

Anyone with information is asked to contact WTAMU police at 806-651-2300.