Have you ever thought to yourself, “You know, I would really like to sit down and have an informal discussion with my state representative?” Because it would be a pretty crazy coincidence if you have. It turns out Rep. Jeff Smith is holding “office hours” events from now until Nov. 1 at two local restaurants to try and ensure his re-election in November give constituents an opportunity to drop in and chat.

Even if this is a bid to get more votes, events like this are a great way to get everyday people (even political amateurs) involved by asking questions and discussing issues important to them. And really, it doesn’t get much easier than this, so save your lame excuses about having to wash the dishes or do a load of whites. It can wait. Really, it can.

The events are going down the first Monday of every month at Altoona Family Restaurant (8-9am) and the second Thursday of every month at Brackett Tavern (4:30-5:30pm) in Fall Creek.