East Texans for Liberty holds Annual Law Enforcement Appreciation Dinner
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East Texans for Liberty held its Annual Law Enforcement Appreciation Dinner at the Gilmer Halo Building, drawing a full crowd of law enforcement officers, emergency responders, and residents from Upshur County and surrounding communities. State Representative Cole Hefner served as the featured speaker for the evening.
During the dinner, the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office received a special video message from U.S. Senator John Cornyn, who commended the department for its many accomplishments and continued service to the community.
East Texans for Liberty also announced the recipients of the 2026 Carol Meyer Memorial Educational Scholarship. Out of fifteen applicants, Sadie Bonnette and Hudson Elwell, both of Ore City, were selected to receive the scholarships.
Members of East Texans for Liberty worked alongside Hospitality Director Darlene Rappazzo to coordinate the dinner. The brisket meal was generously donated and prepared by Education Committee Chair and Republican Precinct Chair 7 Elect Nury Wood and her husband, George.
Upshur County Sheriff’s Office dispatchers Amber Meador and Danelle Champion received Freedom shirts as door prizes during the evening.
Several Republican Party leaders from across the region attended, including Upshur County Chairman Carl Byers, Smith County Chairman David Stein, Camp County Chairwoman Cynthia Wilson, and Panola County Chairman and State Republican Executive Committee candidate Mark Williams.
The organization also announced its upcoming June program featuring Governor Greg Abbott’s Five-Point Property Tax Plan, presented by Americans for Prosperity. The meeting will be held on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at the Gilmer Halo Building, 6761 SH 154 W, Gilmer.
“This is an opportunity for the public to hear directly about Governor Abbott’s Five-Point Property Tax Plan and how it is intended to provide relief for Texas taxpayers,” said Stacy McMahan, Executive Director of East Texans for Liberty. “We encourage the community to attend, learn more about the proposal, and join the discussion.”