Amarillo is Missing You

I was born in Borger and lived in Fritch during my early years. I moved around frequently between the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area and the Texas Panhandle because my parents were divorced. I spent holidays and summers with my dad’s side of the family in the Panhandle. For high school, I lived in Palmer, TX, until my stepdad passed away during my junior year. I then moved to Gunter, TX, where I graduated from high school. I attended Grayson Junior College, and later, I spent some time studying at a school in College Station.

Where did you move off to, and what did you do there?

After high school, I moved to College Station to pursue a degree in child psychology. During this time, I started my first business, Super Duper Outfitters, making T-shirts for local fraternities and sororities. I then moved to San Marcos and worked in an electrical warehouse while enjoying the outdoor activities the Hill Country offered. Later, I attended culinary school in Austin, aiming to open a Philly cheesesteak food truck, but dropped out midway. I worked in the bar scene and helped people start food truck businesses. After a motorcycle accident left me unable to work, I moved back to the DFW area for support and worked various odd jobs until I started Super Duper Transport, a delivery business. The COVID-19 pandemic forced me to pivot again, leading me to start an online organic mattress company, which I eventually sold. I then pursued a computer science degree and briefly worked in IT before moving to Amarillo to help my cousin resurrect an old hotel.

What was your motivation for moving back to Amarillo?

My move back to Amarillo was driven by a mix of chance and opportunity. My cousin Matthew invited me to help him with his hotel project, and although I was initially hesitant, I saw it as a unique opportunity I didn’t want to pass up. The supportive community in Amarillo and the chance to start anew in a different environment were strong motivators.

What are some of your favorite things about Amarillo, and what would you like to see in the future?

My favorite thing about Amarillo is the people. The sense of community here is unlike anywhere else I’ve lived. The Panhandle offers a supportive environment where people genuinely help each other succeed. Moving forward, I would like to see more urban green spaces, increased funding for cultural arts, economic diversification, community-centered events and festivals, and expanded educational opportunities. I envision a blend of old and new Western culture, where traditional values meet modern life. Despite my numerous professional setbacks, the supportive community in Amarillo has lifted me up, making it a place I love to call home.