HUBBARD NEWS: Greater Hubbard Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet Held

By Cheri Lane
Hubbard City Reporter

For this small-town business community, the Greater Hubbard Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet is one the most well-attended events of the year. It is like prom night for business owners; but instead of taking formal photos with a sweetheart, each business decorates a fancy banquet table, showcasing their company with creative displays and fun give aways for table guests.
The best part about being early at this event is walking through the dining hall, before all the guests begin arriving, and having a moment to appreciate all the gorgeous décor and buzz of activity as table and kitchen preparations were finalizing. The tables were each unique and spectacular. Each company puts effort and time into planning for this event every Spring, adding to and upgrading their displays, and diametrically outdoing themselves year after year. Each table display is so elaborate that one might think they were up for competition or auction; however, the designs are planned only for the joy of decorating and with a great spirit of celebration for the event, making each one better than the year before.
White lights looped around and encircled the entire space. The stage was a stunning frame of silver streamers highlighted by strands of sparkling lights. The side stage revealed a presentation of plaques featuring prior Chamber Hall of Fame Inductees and photos honoring the night’s recipients.
The positive energy of prosperity and hope for the future of this small town was clear throughout the evening. How appropriate for the theme, Hubbard – A New Era! As attendees began to arrive, they were welcomed through an elegant entrance, under a canopy of white twinkling lights framed by large ferns on cascading white pedestals. The ambience was upbeat and elevated with classic style piano music performed by Jonah Krumvieda, which continued through the meal. After check-in, guests were escorted to their tables.
The Master of Ceremonies for the night was Chamber President, Eugene Fulton. Fulton honored Hubbard’s history and previous eras and celebrated Hubbard’s moving into a new era of growth and revitalization. Fulton explained Hubbard’s important beginnings as a crossroads and depot for commerce and trade from 1881, then remembered the tragedy of the 1973 tornado that ripped the town apart, destroying over 140 homes and businesses, with more than two hundred people injured and seven deaths, which the town is still trying to recover from. Fulton stated that the new era starts right now, and recognized NEXUS Holdings as a big part of the upcoming growth.
Next, City Manager and Chief of Police, Jason Patrick, took the stage to introduce the city staff and administration, the City Council, and police officers. Patrick stated, “We are at a place right now where infrastructure repair and improvements are being made that have not been done in 80 years. We are putting in all new water lines throughout the entire city. And once we get about 75% complete on the water line project, we are going into complete sewer line replacement in the community also.” Patrick recognized the work of Public Works Director, Tre’ Knight, and rejoiced that Hubbard has a fully licensed operator who controls our sewer and water system. Additionally, Patrick reported that the city had a complete analysis and work up performed and it was confirmed that Hubbard water quality is of the best in Texas. Further, he encouraged citizens to get involved, participate in city meetings, and come to ask questions if there is any concern.
Bobby Loud, Chamber Treasurer, presented the introductions, and included attendees, Representative Angela Orr, and Hill County Judge Shane Brassell, among others.
Fulton led all in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a lovely performance of the National Anthem, sung by Rebecca Woodall. After a heart-felt invocation by Pastor Ricky Woodall, the evening meal was presented. The three-course meal was catered by M&K Catering and served by Hubbard High School students wearing stylish black t-shirts. The meal began with a fresh green salad dotted with cherry tomatoes and a vinaigrette. The main course included a delicious Salisbury steak with a round of mashed potatoes, both smothered in creamy brown gravy, served with seasoned green beans and a plump dinner roll. The dinner was complete with iced tea and cake for dessert, in vanilla or chocolate cream.
Special Honors began with a recognition of 2025 new businesses, which included Hubbard Farm and Ranch, Crossroads Insurance, Wildflower Mercantile with Brooke Martinez Photography and Sip Sip Away, Reliable Metal Buildings, Specialty Clinics of Hubbard, The Lumber Yard, and NEXUS Holdings.
The Business of the Year Award was awarded to Hubbard Livestock Markets LLC, owned by the Perkins family since 2007, and honored for their long-standing tradition of treating customers like family and supporting agricultural youth through FFA, showing projects, or kids selling rodeo raffles.
The Hubbard Rodeo Association received the Community Service Award. The Association was formed to re-establish a rodeo tradition in Hubbard, and they repeatedly accomplish their mission of taking an initiative-taking role in the community by enhancing and revitalizing the cowboy way of life. Operation began with a team roping event in 1998. The Mooney Holloway Arena hosts area rodeo activities for Hubbard as well as other events.
The Distinguished Citizen Award was presented to Andy Sanches in recognition of his community involvement and dedication to making Hubbard a better place to live. Sanches has established the Hubbard One Community Facebook page, and helped launch Reach Across Hubbard, a youth drug prevention and mental health coalition. The organization seeks to strengthen our young people through mentorship and education.
Donna Riddle was selected as this year’s Hall of Fame Inductee in recognition of many years of community involvement and dedication. Riddle has worked as a Hubbard ISD teacher for 21 years and currently teaches Culinary Arts. Additionally, Riddle works as the Gifted and Talented Coordinator for the district.
Following the 9/11 tragedy, Riddle has created a Freedom Walk event to honor and remember those whose lives were lost. This event has become a meaningful and significant community wide remembrance to honor and recognize all veterans, police officers, first responders, and EMTS. Riddle helped establish Rural Hill EMS in the Hubbard area and served on the board, as well as on the EDS II board, and on the board of Hill County CASA. Riddle served as Chamber Director for years and chaired the Chamber committee to organize and establish the Hubbard Rodeo Association. She remains a member and continues to promote Hubbard’s history. Riddle serves on the Hubbard Community Affairs Association, caring for the maintenance of the Historic Hubbard High School with its museums and libraries, and is a long-standing member of the Hubbard Garden Club. Riddle Ranch has been an important part of their family life since 1881.
Photo: Jim and Janis Ware, proud parents of Distinguished Citizen Award recipient Andy Sanches.

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