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Hi, fellow Americans!  We didn’t think anything could be better than the Archives, Smithsonian, or monuments, yet the Capitol Building was just as impressive! Chloe and I were thrilled to learn we could tour the Capitol. Like other buildings in Washington, we went through security before entering.

The guards searched my backpack before smiling and saying, “Enjoy.” We listened as our guide gave us information about the Capitol. Located in the center of D.C., the Capitol is where Congress makes laws. “There are three main areas of the Capitol,” the tour guide explained.  “The Senate chamber, the House chamber and the Great Rotunda – the area under the dome where ceremonies are held. Any questions?” My heart fluttered. Mom always said there weren’t any dumb questions, so I raised my paw.  “My name is Dogw… I mean, Woody, and I wondered what the Senate and the House of Representatives do?” I thought I heard some snickers, but was glad when the guide said, “Great question, Woody! Congress is divided into two parts – the Senate and the House of Representatives. They make laws (rules) for our country. To make it easier Woody, let me give you an example.  Think of a law you would like to see passed.”  “Hmmm…” I thought.  “Well, Chloe and I wish for a law against eating hot dogs!”  Snickers turned to laughter, but the guide continued.  “Let’s pretend the ‘No Eating Hot Dogs’ Bill is introduced in the Senate.  The Senate debates and votes. Members of both the House and Senate meet and re-write parts of the bill that are not in agreement. Then, they both vote on the bill.  If it passes in both chambers, it goes to the President of the United States. He can sign the bill, making it a law, not sign, or veto the bill. Even if he vetoes the bill, there’s still a chance it could be passed and you would get your ‘No Eating Hot Dogs’ law.” 

I was thinking about the Hot Dog bill when we arrived on the third floor of the Capitol. “Here we can watch Congress,” informed the guide. I was amazed as I looked down and saw people actually making our laws. “Why is that person banging a hammer?” The guide explained it was called a gavel, which was struck at the beginning and ending of a session, or to call order.  Maybe I could be in charge of the gavel when I grew up. That would be a dream job!

I was still thinking about my gavel career as we exited the Capitol and were inside the U.S. Botanic Garden and saw more than 4,000 plants. “Woody, these are not trees in our back yard, if you know what I mean. Keep all fours on the ground at all times!”  Dad didn’t have to explain that twice, though I was now sorry I had drunk so much Jungle Juice earlier. Mom and Dad must have been worried because we didn’t stay there long.   

While still on the Capitol grounds, I saw a gentleman and a very pretty lady I had seen on television. They were waving at everyone and had some Scottish Terriers with them. I barked, but they didn’t hear me. “Hey!  Arff!  Over here!” I exclaimed!  I thought I heard Mom and Dad telling me to hush, but I had to get their attention. Without thinking, I took off across the Capitol lawn, running and barking with all my might. I had almost reached the Terriers when two men in dark suits and sunglasses swept me off my feet. “Rut row,” I said, borrowing a Scooby phrase.  I could tell they weren’t happy. The man who was holding me asked for my ID. I was thankful I had my library card. Shaking, I handed the card to the gentleman. Since I wasn’t supposed to talk to strangers, I felt I should know their names, so I quietly and respectfully asked. “We’re the Secret Service,” he answered.  “Secret Service?”  I repeated. “I love secrets! You can tell me!  I won’t tell anybody!” The two men looked at me and I knew I was in deep trouble. “We’re not in the business of telling secrets, son.  Our job is to protect the President of the United States and you just posed a threat. Let’s find your parents.”

Oh no! The trip had gone so well – a dream come true, yet this was a nightmare and I was praying I would wake up! I don’t know what’s going to happen, but I know it’s not going to be good. I have a feeling the doghouse is in my immediate future.  Keep your fingers crossed for me and work and dream like a big dog!

Woody, a k a Mr. Dogwood

Thanks to LG&E/KU both E.ON companies and KPA for making this project possible. Thanks to the Kentucky Secretary of State for sponsoring the new podcast. For podcast and questions and activities go online to www.kypress.com.