Simpson is awarded the Texas A&M University System Regents Fellow Service Award
February 6, 2026 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas—Texas A&M Forest Service Assistant Director Hughes Simpson was presented with a Texas A&M University System Regents Fellow Service Award for 2024-2025 at a ceremony on Wednesday evening in College Station, Texas.
Simpson received this award for his extraordinary contributions to the State and People of Texas through the conservation and protection of forests and natural resources, as well as his cultivation of the people, programs and communities responsible for the stewardship of these resources.
“Hughes has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and collaboration throughout his 25 years with the agency,” said Al Davis, Director, Texas A&M Forest Service. “He has significantly impacted the sustainability of our forest resources across Texas – and the partnerships that make it possible.”
Simpson serves as a critical link between the agency’s mission and the legislative and regulatory landscape. His role is highly strategic, requiring a deep understanding of policy, strong communication skills, and the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders. Simpson works closely with Texas A&M AgriLife External Relations and Texas A&M University System leadership to continuously align mission and priorities among these intrinsically linked entities.
His leadership contributed to the awareness and recognition of agency needs and opportunities – contributing to significant legislative outcomes for the agency in the 89th Texas Legislative Session.
Simpson was instrumental in forging a working relationship with the American YouthWorks’ Texas Conservation Corps. The partnership connects young people to careers in forestry, natural resource management, wildfire mitigation, and disaster relief. He orchestrated the Memorandum of Understanding with the corps and led the union’s major projects like helping restore parts of the W.G. Jones State Forest in Conroe following a damaging storm last year, and work on the Dogwood Trail in Tyler County to remove hazardous trees, clear fallen vegetation, and re-establish a walking path. Together, the partnership between these groups is shaping the future workforce of civic-minded, action-oriented, emerging natural resource professionals in Texas.
In strengthening other external natural resource partnerships, Simpson developed and implemented the Texas A&M Forest Service Leadership Institute, a leadership training program for natural resource and emergency response partners that promotes the advancement of statewide natural resource stewardship.
Simpson, helping lead the Texas Longleaf Team, has been instrumental in the restoration of the native longleaf pine ecosystem. In 2014, he developed the Texas Longleaf Conservation Assistance Program that has provided over $2.4 million in financial assistance to landowners to restore and steward almost 50,000 acres of this iconic ecosystem.
Simpson established the Texas Partnership for Forests and Water, a statewide collaborative that works to sustain forested watersheds to provide safe, reliable sources of drinking water and positive benefits to local economies.
Beyond specific projects, Simpson’s dedication is evident in his far-reaching service and leadership to conservation organizations.
As a 25-year member of the Texas Forestry Association, Simpson serves as chair of its environmental committee. He has also served on the association’s board of directors and several other natural resource-based committees. Simpson is active in the Society of American Foresters, having chaired the National Committee on Forest Policy, served on the board of directors, and held several state and local chapter offices. He also served two terms (four years) leading the Southern Group of State Foresters (SGSF) Water Resources Committee.
Simpson’s leadership skills were sharpened through his participation in the Texas A&M AgriLife Emerging Leaders and Advanced Leadership Programs, and the Harvard-Kennedy School of Senior Executives in State and Local Government.
Simpson is one of 13 professionals to receive the Regents Fellow Service Award this year.
The Regents Fellow Service Awards program was established in 1998 and the Regents Professor Awards program in 1996, recognizing employees who have made exemplary contributions to their university or agency and to the people of Texas.
Read more about this year’s awards at Regents Approve 17 Regents Professors, 13 Regents Fellows – A&M System News and https://agrilifetoday.tamu.edu/2025/11/18/board-of-regents-honors-nine-texas-am-agrilife-faculty-professionals/.
###
Riley is awarded the Texas A&M University System Regents Fellow Service Award
February 6, 2026 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas—Texas A&M Forest Service Division Director of Forestry & Natural Resource Management Gretchen Riley was presented with a Texas A&M University System Regents Fellow Service Award for 2024-2025 at a ceremony on Wednesday evening in College Station, Texas.
Riley received this award for her exceptional commitment, innovation, and leadership throughout her 15 years with Texas A&M Forest Service, significantly impacting the health and sustainability of our forest resources across Texas.
“Gretchen leads strategic initiatives for the forestry and natural resources division and for the entire agency,” said Al Davis, Director of Texas A&M Forest Service. “She is focused on the long-term health of the state’s forest resources and, as importantly, for the development of the agency’s people.”
She was instrumental in the development and implementation of the statewide Forest Action Plan, agency Strategic Plan, and guidelines for communities across the state to conserve and protect their urban forests.
Under Riley’s leadership in 2023, Texas A&M Forest Service received an unprecedented $21.75 million in grant funding through the U.S. Department of Agriculture for agency initiatives that supported the expansion and conservation of forests in urban areas. As a result, the Community Forestry Grant Program passed through $15.4 million in sustainable forestry grants to 22 Texas cities, neighborhoods, non-profit organizations, and schools.
Riley also led the $630,000 Arlington Park Estates project with former Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson through Congressionally directed spending. The neighborhood lies adjacent to the Southwestern Medical District in Dallas, Texas, and the project emphasized urban forest impacts on human health.
Riley led the team that developed the Texas Community Forest Storm Planning Guide. This guide serves as a model for other state forestry agencies and communities across the South. It is an essential part of a community’s hazard mitigation and emergency management plan, and was put into practice during Winter Storm Uri in 2021.
Another example of Riley’s leadership in recovery and restoration occurred following the first anniversary of the Smokehouse Creek Fire in the Texas Panhandle in 2024. Under Riley’s leadership, Texas A&M Forest Service implemented an initiative that provides trees to area residents as part of ongoing post-fire recovery efforts to ensure watershed health and landscape resiliency.
She was instrumental in building the Urban Forest Strike Team program in Texas and across the U.S. South. Also, due to Riley’s forethought, following post-disaster assessments, we can also connect communities with potential partners and other stakeholders to help replant the community forest and possibly offer financial assistance through the TreeCovery Fund.
Riley led a team that analyzed potential impacts to Texas’ forests from Emerald Ash Borer and developed the Texas Community Forest Planning Guide for Emerald Ash Borer to prepare and assist communities across the state affected by EAB infestation. She also championed the urban tree improvement program. The Texas Tested, Texas Tough program is dedicated to enhancing the health, resilience, and beauty of trees in urban environments by increasing viability, vigor, and climate adaptation.
Beyond specific projects, Riley’s dedication is evident in her far-reaching service and leadership to trade organizations. Serving with Texas A&M Forest Service since 2011, Riley holds a Master of Science in Forestry from Texas A&M University. Riley is also a Society of American Foresters Certified Forester, Texas Accredited Forester, International Society for Arboriculture Certified Arborist, and a leader in the Southern Group of State Foresters, Texas Forestry Association and Texas Urban Forestry Council.
“Gretchen’s ability to foster strong relationships with private landowners, federal agencies, local communities, and environmental groups has been beneficial in advancing cooperative conservation efforts across the state,” said Davis.
Riley is one of 13 professionals to receive the Regents Fellow Service Award this year.
The Regents Fellow Service Awards program was established in 1998, and the Regents Professor Awards program in 1996, recognizing employees who have made exemplary contributions to their university or agency and to the people of Texas.
Read more about this year’s awards at Regents Approve 17 Regents Professors, 13 Regents Fellows – A&M System News and https://agrilifetoday.tamu.edu/2025/11/18/board-of-regents-honors-nine-texas-am-agrilife-faculty-professionals/.
###
Hopkins County Judge Newsom Enacts Burn Ban on Hopkins County February 6
Feb 6 2026 – ORDER PROHIBITING OUTDOOR BURNING
WHEREAS, Robert Newsom, Hopkins County Judge finds that conditions in the county’s
unincorporated areas pose a public safety hazard worsened by outdoor buming, and the Texas
Forest Service confirms drought conditions;
Raise Your Bid and Raise the Roof!
February 5, 2026 – Sulphur Springs, Texas – Everybody loves a winner – so be one! Bid on epic prizes and put your name in the hat to win $500 cash. Every person who bids in the online Gala Auction Pre-Sale is entered in a drawing to be held during the Gala on May 9. The $500 cash prize is sponsored by Chris Voorheese, Financial Advisor – Edward Jones.
Attorney General Ken Paxton Sues Wind Turbine Recycling Company for Destroying Beautiful Texas Land by Illegally Disposing Turbine Blades
February 6, 2026 – Attorney General Ken Paxton sued Global Fiberglass Solutions, Inc. (“Global”) and other affiliated entities for illegally dumping thousands of wind turbine blades and materials at two disposal sites in Sweetwater, Texas.
Global was purportedly hired by numerous companies to break down, transport, and recycle turbine blades. The company failed to properly dispose of the waste and instead created a stockpile of over 3,000 wind turbine blades and parts, which has created unpermitted, illegal disposal sites. These sites damage beautiful Texas land and threaten surrounding communities. Global’s actions are in violation of Texas’s solid waste disposal laws and other administrative orders.
“Illegal disposal of wind turbines hurts our land and will never be permitted under my watch,” said Attorney General Paxton. “Just because the radical left calls something a ‘green industry’ does not give any company a free pass to harm Texas countryside, break our laws, and leave Texans to deal with the negative impacts.”
Attorney General Paxton’s lawsuit is seeking significant civil penalties for ongoing violations, injunctive relief requiring the complete removal and lawful disposal of all unauthorized waste, and other costs paid to the state.
Rare PLAYERS Championship Golf Package Available Now for a Limited Time
February 5, 2026 -Sulphur Springs, Texas – Sports fans, golf enthusiasts, and those with a bucket list are invited to experience one of sport’s most prestigious events up close with The PLAYERS Championship Package, hosted at the world-renowned TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.
This exclusive package offers the opportunity to watch the game’s top players compete on the iconic Stadium Course, home of the famous par-3 17th island green. Designed for passionate golfers and fans alike, the experience combines championship-level golf viewing with unforgettable moments both on and off the course.
The package includes 4 tickets to enjoy the entire week of the tournament and practice rounds, March 10th – 15th, 2026, and a $1,500 check to spend however you please.
“The PLAYERS is always one of the most fun events of the season. It has the best field of golfers as they try to get momentum going into the Masters. This is such a memorable course, fun for the entire family, and I would go every year if I could,” said Sally Toliver, a foundation board member who has taken the trip many times with her family. “There’s never a dull moment, and this year is even more special with Rory trying to repeat and Brooks Koepka back in the mix. You don’t want to miss this one!”
Whether attendees are lifelong golf devotees or first-time spectators, this trip offers an unmatched blend of sport, hospitality, and camaraderie during golf’s unofficial “fifth major.” It also doesn’t hurt that it’s located in beautiful sunny Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.
Visit Gala2026.GiveSmart.com to place your bid before the auction closes on Sunday, February 8 at 9 p.m. To keep up with all offerings of the Foundation, follow the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation on Facebook and Instagram. The Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1997 and governed by a local board of directors who live and work in Hopkins County. Since the start of the Gala in 2006, the Foundation has raised over $3.5 million and completed 35 projects through the annual event. For more information, contact the Foundation at (903) 438-4799.
###
East Texas A&M Receives $8 Million Gift from Rene’ Griffin, Largest in University History
February 5, 2026 – COMMERCE – East Texas A&M University is proud to announce a historic $8 million gift from alumnus Rene’ Griffin, marking the largest single philanthropic contribution in the history of the university and to Lion Athletics.
In recognition of this transformational gift, the new event center, currently under construction on the campus of East Texas A&M, will be named the Rene’ Griffin Event Center. The naming was approved by The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents earlier today. The gift from Griffin is now the largest naming rights gift in the Southland Conference’s 63-year history.
“For more than half a century, Rene’ has poured his heart into East Texas A&M and its people, and his latest gift represents the culmination of a lifetime of extraordinary generosity to our university,” said East Texas A&M President Mark Rudin. “Rene’ truly embodies the Lion spirit, and it is both fitting and deeply meaningful that the new event center will bear his name.”
A 1975 graduate of East Texas A&M University and native of Commerce, Griffin has been an unwavering supporter of the university and the athletics department since moving here as a child in 1960. He has proudly attended every Lion Football homecoming game over the past 65 years. Griffin has supported countless university initiatives and has been a member of numerous university boards, including his current service on the Alumni Association Board of Directors and as president of the Delta Tau Delta Education Foundation.
“I hope this gift inspires others whose lives have been positively impacted by their time at East Texas to invest in the future of this great university,” said Griffin. “By giving back, we support similar opportunities for the next generation of students and continue building upon the extraordinary legacy of East Texas.”
Construction of the Rene’ Griffin Event Center is expected to be completed in early 2027 and when it opens, the center will instantly become the premier multi-use event space across all of Northeast Texas. In addition to being the home of Lion basketball, the new facility will also serve as a central hub for student life and community engagement, and as a catalyst for economic growth throughout the region.
“Rene’ has been a mainstay of this community and this university for over 65 years, and it’s only fitting that his name adorns the new event center at East Texas A&M,” said Director of Athletics Jim Curry. “The impact of this transformative and historic gift cannot be overstated. We are grateful for his decades of support and for believing in the unbounded vision of East Texas A&M and Lion Athletics.”
The new event center will bear Griffin’s name for the next 20 years, and his commitment will support multiple new projects and programs across the university. The gift will primarily support the establishment of a new athletics unrestricted fund benefitting student-athletes and competitive excellence initiatives. It will also create an endowment for the operations and maintenance of the Griffin Event Center and kickstart a new fund to support students’ academic and social experiences on campus.
“It is a joy to work with Rene’ and witness firsthand his love for the Lion family, especially our students and student-athletes. He gives to others with a spirit of joy, enthusiasm, and a genuine desire to make a difference,” said Vice President for Philanthropy and Engagement Devin Girod. “This investment will make a lasting impact on East Texas A&M and Lion Athletics, and we are inspired by his generosity. We hope that our alumni and partners will be inspired to step forward and join our Lion donors in educating and preparing the next generation of leaders for our region and beyond.”
Read more about Griffin’s journey at East Texas A&M and his longtime support of the university on East Texas A&M’s news page.
Chamber Connection – February 5, 2026
By Butch Burney
The cutoff to get your tickets for the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce’s 99th Annual Banquet and Community Awards is fast approaching. We will celebrate Hopkins County and Sulphur Springs as we recognize our 2025 Citizen of the Year, Woman of the Year, Caregiver of the Year, Community Pride Award, Agriculturist of the Year, Growth and Renewal, Outstanding Professional Educator, Outstanding ParaProfessional Educator, Outstanding Auxiliary Educator Large Business of the Year, and Small Business of the Year.
We like to celebrate the great things about Hopkins County, and the best time to do it is at this annual event, which will have a Rhinestones and Rodeo theme. The banquet is Thursday, Feb. 19, at the Hopkins County Civic Center.
To reserve your spot, tables of 10 are $500 each and individual tickets are $30. To get reservations or tickets, call the Chamber at 903-885-6515 or email at [email protected]. A sponsorship table includes advertisement of your business at the banquet and reserved seating. You have until Feb. 13 to reserve your table.
Shop at our local retailers to get your boots, hats, belts and anything else you might need for the Rhinestones and Rodeo theme.
Come and help us celebrate Hopkins County!
Lunch and Learn
If you own a small business and want to learn about grants and loans, make a reservation for our Lunch and Learn on Tuesday, Feb. 24.
We will feature guests from the Small Business Development Center at Paris Junior College and the ArkTex Council of Governments to talk about small business loans and grants.
The luncheon will be hosted by the Chamber of Commerce at The Oaks Bed and Breakfast from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost is $10. Please call 903-885-6515 or email [email protected].
Pancakes and More
Get your fill of pancakes, bacon and more at the Kiwanis Club’s Annual Pancake Breakfast from 7 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 21, at the Hopkins County Civic Center. Cost is $8 per ticket and can be purchased from any Kiwanis Club member.
Candidate Forum
The Hopkins County Republican Club will host a President’s Day Candidate Forum and Dinner, starting at 5 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 16, at the Hopkins County Regional Civic Center
The keynote speaker is Bryan Hughes, Texas Senate District 1. There will be a catered barbecue dinner and live auction. Tickets are $25.
For more information, contact Donnie Wisenbaker at 903-439-4591.
UPRA Spring RodeoThe Hopkins County Rodeo Association is hosting the 46th UPRA Spring Rodeo on April 17-18 at the Hopkins County Civic Center. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Oscar Aguilar at 903-243-0446 or [email protected].
Bid for the Ride of a Lifetime: Firetruck Expedition including Donuts
February 5, 2026 – Sulphur Springs, Texas – Sirens, smiles, and sprinkles are hitting the auction block in the online Gala Auction Pre-Sale. The private firetruck ride to school for four, complete with fresh donuts, is one hot package! The winner will enjoy an unforgettable ride aboard an authentic fire engine, making memories with friends or family while supporting a great cause.
Not normally available to the general public, this unique experience blends hometown charm, hands-on excitement, and a sweet treat — perfect for families, friends, or anyone who’s ever dreamed of joyriding in a firetruck. Place your bids now through Sunday, February 8 by 9 p.m., on Gala2026.GiveSmart.com.
“My grandson thought the firetruck was the most exciting way to ride to school,” shared Foundation Board Chair Pam Black. “The firefighters really added to the experience and made him feel like the coolest dude in town. I enjoyed being able to treat him to something so memorable.” Black purchased the package at a previous Gala.
Make a memory with your kids or grandkids, or embrace your inner child with this one-of-a-kind experience. Bid now until 9 p.m. on Sunday, February 8 at Gala2026.GiveSmart.com.
The Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization that has improved local healthcare since 1997. Governed by a local board of directors who live and work in Hopkins County, the Foundation offers free clinics, programs, and educational resources. To learn more and support, contact the Foundation at (903) 438-4799.
###
Cancer Support Group to Meet Monday, February 9
February 5, 2026 – Sulphur Springs, Texas – The Hopkins County Breast Cancer Support Group will meet on Monday, February 9 at 5:30 p.m. in the Medical Plaza, 113 Airport Rd. The group welcomes ladies who have or have had any type of cancer and is not limited to breast cancer.
February’s guest speaker will be Markeda Fisher, retired librarian and avid reader. She will share her top book recommendations across many genres in hopes of offering something for everyone. Bibliotherapy is a great way to provide a mental escape while helping to manage pain and anxiety. Markeda’s taste and insight are sure to inspire.
The group has welcomed a variety of speakers in the past such as nutritionists, counselors, medical providers, survivors, and even cookie decorators! If you are interested in serving as a guest speaker, please call the Foundation at (903) 438-4799. Solely promotional or sales visits will not be considered.
The Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) IRS-designated nonprofit dedicated to improving local healthcare since 1997 through its free clinics, educational resources, and programs. The Foundation also funds equipment, programs, and construction for both the local nonprofit hospital, CHRISTUS Mother Frances – Sulphur Springs and the state special district Hopkins County Hospital District/EMS. To learn more about the Foundation, call (903) 438-4799.
