Over 700 Republicans from across the state joined us on Saturday evening at the Hilton Post Oak Hotel at our HCRP 2011 Lincoln-Reagan Day Dinner. The sold-out and record-setting crowd flocked to the Galleria area to hear former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee speak about his experiences as Governor of Arkansas and his perspective on politics, policy and the 2012 Elections. Prior to his speech Governor Huckabee joined Senator Dan Patrick and the Cypress Republic Band in two songs including the Little Texas hit, "God Blessed Texas." Immediately following the musical performance, Senator Patrick took on the role of auctioneer for the event's live auction, which featured the two guitars used by Governor Huckabee and copies of Governor Huckabee's newest New York Times Bestseller, A Simple Government, which he personally autographed for each winner.

In addition to Governor Huckabee's speech, guests were also treated to remarks by Congressman Mike McCaul, Attorney General Greg Abbott, who introduced Governor Huckabee; Dallas Mayor Tom Leppert and former Texas Solicitor General Ted Cruz.

The event concluded with an awards presentation honoring grassroots leaders including: Brian Bishop for his work on ballot security issues; Matthew Cowan for his work on the 2010 campaign; Richard Dillon for his work as Chairman of the Outreach Committee; Margie Forster for her countless hours organizing volunteers as our Volunteer Coordinator; Sharon Hicks for her years of service as HCRP Election Judge Coordinator; Social Networking Chairman Bill Kneer; JoAnn McCracken for her work as Speakers Bureau Chairman and; our Event Coordinator Melissa Rowell for her efforts organizing our dozens of meet-and-greet events during the 2010 Election Campaign.

This year's event, which grossed over $100,000, was the largest Lincoln-Reagan Day Dinner in our history and a great preview of things to come as we continue marching towards victory in 2012!