On Saturday, Aug. 29, Republicans from across Eastern Idaho will come together for an evening of good food, family fun and fellowship at the Region 10 Republican barbecue at Riverbend Ranch in Idaho Falls. But this event is about more than a great barbecue. It is about celebrating what Idaho Republicans have accomplished and preparing for the important elections ahead.

Over the past several years, Idaho Republicans have worked to keep our state moving in the right direction. Under Republican leadership, Idaho has maintained a strong economy, kept taxes comparatively low, invested in education and workforce development, protected individual liberties, supported law enforcement and continued to make responsible investments in our state's infrastructure.

We have seen those priorities right here in Eastern Idaho. Investments in workforce training, including the new Future Tech Building at the College of Eastern Idaho, are helping prepare Idaho workers for the jobs of tomorrow. Our communities continue to attract new businesses and investment because Idaho remains a place where people want to live, work and raise a family.

That progress didn't happen by accident. It happened because Idaho voters elected Republicans who believe the government should live within its means, that parents should have a meaningful voice in their children's education, and that Idaho's future is best protected when we encourage personal responsibility, opportunity and economic growth.

Now it is time to get ready for November.

The Region 10 Republican barbecue brings together the Jefferson, Bonneville and Bingham County Republican Central committees for one evening to celebrate our accomplishments and build the organization necessary to help Republican candidates succeed in the upcoming election.

And we have put together quite an evening.

Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane will showcase his barbecue skills, serving amazing barbecue featuring tri-tip beef exclusively from Riverbend Ranch. After dinner, we'll finish things off with ice cream from Reed's Dairy.

You'll also have an opportunity to meet some of Idaho's Republican leaders, including Gov. Brad Little, Lt. Gov. Scott Bedke, State Treasurer Julie Ellsworth, Attorney General Raul Labrador and Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield. A lineup of Eastern Idaho state legislators will also be joining us. Congressman Mike Simpson and United States Sen. James Risch are expected to be in attendance as well.

Most importantly, this is a family-friendly event. Bring the kids. We'll have a bounce house and games for young and old alike. You can even test your skills on the first and only basketball arcade from Hoops Idaho Falls.

Tickets are just $40, with children 12 and under only $10. Children under 5 are free.

So mark your calendar for Saturday, Aug. 29, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Riverbend Ranch in Idaho Falls. Tickets are still available at Bonnevillegop.com.

Come enjoy the food. Bring the family. Meet your elected officials. Visit with your neighbors. And, most importantly, help the Region 10 Republicans prepare for November.

Elections are won because citizens get involved. They are won because volunteers show up, neighbors talk to neighbors and communities work together toward a common goal.

Let's celebrate what Idaho Republicans have accomplished — and then roll up our sleeves and get ready for the work ahead.

We hope to see you at the Region 10 Republican barbecue.