It’s election day in Minnesota. Are you off to vote?

Those of us who have local elections in our communities likely won’t face the long lines we encounter in state and federal election years. As I have prepared our elections coverage, I have to remind myself that there is not a need in 2023 for reminders to bring water, wear comfortable shoes, bring medication if needed, etc.

Most of us who do vote today will be in and out of the polls without long waits. Remember that it is OK to bring a helper or to ask for assistance.

I voted early and was in and out of a Ramsey County polling place very quickly, with courteous and professional help. Early voting is a huge convenience and we should never take it for grant.

Find your polling place today on the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website. Go to https://pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us/

Once you have voted, think about the 2024 election. No, it’s never too early. It will be a big year with a presidential election and many state and federal offices on the ballot. Your community may also have a local election or elections to vote on.

Some of us work to support the candidates of our choice, as we are physically able to do so. For others, a good option might be to become an elections judges. Counties and cities will need all hands on deck during very busy elections.

Most elections officials are very good about providing accommodations. Many jobs at a polling place are seated. Some places offer half-days for judges.

Judges get training and small stipends. They can also volunteer and not take a stipend.
Start thinking ahead for 2024 and consider being an elections judge next year. It’s a great way to help your community.

Thanks to all!

We had a great time at the Access Press Gala and Fundraiser November 3. We had a large group there to honor U.S. District Court Judge Donovan Frank and the late Tim Benjamin. And of course, we remember our founding editor, Charlie Smith.

Our emcee and featured speaker, KARE 11’s Boyd Huppert, our board members and volunteers did a great job. I also need to call out our photographer, Lou Michels, aka Lou the Photo Guy, for his work.

Big thanks go to our board of directors at Access Press, who went above and beyond to bring this event back. This was the first time we had staged such an event since 2017. It’s the board’s call, of course, but I assume it will be back.