The Amherst Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual banquet on April 23, 2026, where chamber members named the Citizen of the Year and awarded Amherst’s athletic program with a $1,000 donation.
“Here in Amherst, Texas, this community still believes in hard work. They believe in right and wrong. They believe that there’s a way of doing things,” Amherst Head Coach Daniel Hinojosa said. “They believe that if you dream hard enough and you strive for it, you can accomplish what it is that you want.”
In an evening of gratitude and grit, members of the Amherst community honored the benevolence that many exhibit.
“A lot of people say, ‘Why don’t you leave Amherst? You can make a lot of money somewhere else,’” Hinojosa said. “When you go and chase money, you are no longer making an impact. When you’re not making an impact, you need to get out of the profession.”
Hinojosa expressed gratitude for the chamber’s donation and his players’ dedication, and he detailed how the program plans to utilize the funds.
New uniforms and athletic gear are the first upgrades Hinojosa said the program plans to purchase.
“As long as I am here, I feel that with our kids, we as coaches are making a direct impact on our children,” Hinojosa said.
Following Hinojosa’s speech, the chamber named the recipient of the Citizen of the Year award.
Described as reliant, selfless and generous, R.d. Gass was honored by his colleagues, who, unbeknownst to him, planned the moment behind his back.
Originally from Montana, Gass’ family said they lost him to Texas, especially after he realized the weather and his aspirations looked far more promising here.
Gass worked for the Sawyer Family, on farms, drove trucks and wherever else he was needed within the community.
Now serving as the fire chief, Gass said he enjoys the company of those around him.
“We have some really wonderful guys on the fire department,” Gass said, “and we have a great community.”
Looking ahead, Gass said he has his eye on retirement and the summertime–the season with the weather he enjoys most.
“I don’t like the cold, so I look forward to the summer,” Gass said. “Maybe retirement, someday. I’m only 70.”