Again Tuesday evening, I had the pleasure of watching the employees of the Scioto County Board of Elections in action. Throughout the evening they were busy, making sure everything was done correctly. I have been impressed with various government agencies many times, but I am always impressed with the way Director Teresa Knittel and Deputy Director Julia Gearheart run a well-oiled machine.

With all of the precincts that come in continually they have to keep everything in order. They are surrounded by employees who are diligent and focused on keeping problems to a minimum, and making sure that this most-important right is protected.

They are well-versed in the laws that govern elections, and they make sure everything is done to the best of their abilities.

If you ever want to watch a group of people focused on the task at hand, step inside the area where tabulations occur. There is a team determined to guarantee that every vote is counted. I might also add that this is the one place that is the model of bi-partisanship. I can tell you, there is no politics played in the Board of Elections. I have watched them in the past at meetings when they have had to look at a questionable ballot. They treat it like it is the most important vote in America.

What makes this nation great is the right to vote, and no one is protecting your vote more than those who work every day and during election day in the Scioto County Board of Elections.

Frank Lewis may be reached at (740) 353-3101, ext. 232, or flewis@heartlandpublications.com.