We would like to explain the exact process we use for counting election ballots.

An envelope is not opened until counting day. Upon receipt of an envelope with member’s name and No. on the back, we check the member’s status with the latest version of the membership list we receive from Richard Huber. If there is an issue, we request Richard to confirm the member’s status and either verify or void the ballot based on his records.

We invite any candidates to monitor the counting process which is done at our home. The candidate cannot approach the table where we are counting.

We ask 1-2 other members to join us on counting day to assist. Mary Ann is the only person handling the envelopes, and no one else knows the identity of any voter. She opens them and gives the ballots to the other 2-3 people to tally.

The count is not official until all the counters’ tallies agree.

Since we’re getting older and our memories ain’t what they used to be, plus the fact that the above opening process is done as fast as possible, members (and candidates) can be assured that Mary Ann really doesn’t remember who voted for who.

Thank you. Bruce & Mary Ann Massey, Election Co-Chairman