The perfect afternoon activity after a Monday full of classes for some students might be lounging around, relaxing by the pool soaking in the last summer rays or even sitting back and watching Netflix, but not if you’re a LEAPster. When we were made aware of Congressman Kevin Brady’s 4th Annual Blues & BBQ event, we all leaped at the opportunity to volunteer!
The venue, Dosey Doe Big Barn, was perfect for the western-themed night. It was the ideal take on a “rustic-vintage” look with the wooden beams that doubled as décor, the old Coca-Cola, Sunoco and General Electric signs that adorned the walls, and the many different types of quaint little chairs that surrounded each dinning table.
As guests began pouring in through the large stained wooden doors, we welcomed them with a warm greeting and thank them for attending while directing them to the dining area, buffet, and bar. Once Congressman Brady arrived, people began lining up to speak to him and shake his hand. After non-stop tête-à-tête conversation with his guests, Congressman Brady hopped on stage to speak about the upcoming presidential election and the importance of his constituents.
As Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, Congressman Brady’s chief responsibility is to oversee the tax code. Impressively, eight Presidents, eight Vice Presidents, twenty-one Speakers of the House of Representatives, and four Supreme Court Justices have served in the Ways and Means Committee! As a government official of great responsibility he gave everyone an update on what he has been working on in D.C. and stated his goals. After the applause died down guests continued to enjoy their meals. Along with a rewarding speech we were lucky enough to enjoy tasty brisket, roasted BBQ chicken, potato salad, and grilled squash!
The night closed once everyone had enjoyed a slice of dessert from the Texas sized cake that congratulated Congressman Brady.
Before the guests made their way out, they made sure to get some last words with the Congressman snapping some pictures with him along the way.
Congressman Brady was more than happy to take a picture with us as well, and his staff (The Brady Bunch) even invited us to hop on stage and join them in their staff picture! We all had a great time, and we hope to participate again soon!
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 