To the editor:

For as long as I can remember, our polling station at the Nannie Lee Center was blessed with a wonderful group of senior citizens, including neighbors in my community. This year COVID-19 changed everything. The call came out seeking new volunteers. I decided to do so even though I am also a senior citizen. I have no pre-existing conditions and I had never served at a polling station. The time was right.

When I arrived at the polling station at 4:45 a.m., I was struck by how many of the volunteers were young people. Their enthusiasm and spirit were infectious. They exhibited a selfless ethic working hard, working together, always looking for ways to be helpful to the chief election officer who bears so much responsibility for getting everything just right.

I left 16 hours later a bit tired but also with a spring in my step. I was truly uplifted to see the young generation displaying a commitment and dedication as citizens of our community, our city, the Commonwealth and our country. Their optimism washed away whatever concerns I may have about our current divisions. They will overcome.

Alexandria, we are blessed. Our future is bright. Let us celebrate and honor our young living legends.

-Jim Larocco, Alexandria