When you go to vote in the Aug. 3 election - and we certainly hope you do - be sure to thank a poll worker.
They're the ones behind the tables who verify your identity, give you a ballot, monitor everything for fairness, answer any questions you might have and generally keep the voting process running smoothly.
They don't do it for the money - it's really not that much. They do it as a public service. They are ordinary citizens who do it to instill confidence in the election process - a foundation of our democracy.
Over the years, we've seen many of the same poll workers faithfully coming out to work each election. They start early in the morning and go well into the evening. Despite the long day, we've consistently seen them smiling and greeting each person who walks through the doors of the various polling locations.
In this time when politics has our nation so divided, they stay above the fray, offering the same considerations and kindness to all voters, regardless of their sex, ethnicity or political persuasion.
They sometimes deal with voters who aren't prepared - who don't have a voting card, proof of ID, who haven't properly registered or who don't know where they should be voting.
However, they handle everything they can and contact the county clerk if they need assistance.
We've seen them go out of their way to help people to vote. And for the past 1 years, they've done their job while facing potential exposure to COVID-19.
So when you go to the polls next Tuesday, don't take them for granted. Thank them for their service.
News Tribune