Yvette Mendoza
October 12, 2021
On October 12th, the LEAP Ambassadors had the opportunity to attend a luncheon with Governor Greg Abbott. This wonderful lunch was hosted at a soon-to-be-opened restaurant in Huntsville, La Misión Grill and Cantina. As this was a new type of event for us, we didn’t know what to expect, but we were filled with excitement to be able to help the staff set up and have the chance to hear the Governor speak to the citizens of Huntsville.
Setting the mood all throughout the Mexican restaurant were elegant patriotic decorations. The centerpieces were decorated with a beautiful floral arrangement of hydrangeas, roses, and Texas flags, as well as homemade sugar cookies in the shape of the Governor’s Mansion.
Although Jessica and I were admiring the gorgeous set up, we were also running around helping ensure each table had the proper name tents. We were then assigned to the role of giving out name tags to the arriving guests. We were excited to see some lovely familiar faces: Linda McKenzie, Mayor Andy Brauninger, Mr. Alvin Martin, former council member Tish Humphrey, and many more community leaders of Huntsville.
As everyone began to take their seats, the moment we had all been waiting for finally came when Governor Greg Abbott appeared in the middle of the restaurant. He spoke on the topics of currents issues including the crisis on the Texas border, our economy, and his views on the current political scene.
He also mentioned Walker County’s strong voter turnout in the last election.
While Governor Abbott spoke, we were being served by the kind staff at La Misión. We had a plate that had Mexican style cream of corn, rice, cheese enchiladas, and a chicken mini taco garnished with salsa verde. It was nice enough to be in the same room as the governor, but a particular treat to also have some gourmet, flavor-packed Mexican cuisine.
Following his speech, Governor Abbott’s opened the floor for questions and we were able to ask questions, hear his thoughts on a wider variety of issues, and learn about what others thought as well.
Following Governor Abbott’s talk, we were able to hear from Senator Charles Schwertner, who spent much time discussing the special session and redistricting.
The day was a great not only to experience new things, but also to become informed for the upcoming election!
The experiences were as memorable as working inside the capitol! I appreciated that the Texas Military Department took the day to teach us through a hands-on experience about their department’s duties.
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 