My son just turned 18. Despite being blind, he is a senior taking debate, has volunteered on a campaign this fall and will be voting in this historic election for the first time. Thanks to the Help America Vote Act, his vote will be private. He couldn't be more excited. As I watch the stories of voting problems in other states, I am thankful for our system in Minnesota, which is streamlined and carefully monitored for integrity. I want to publicly thank Secretary of State Mark Ritchie for a job well done. We found him and his office to be extremely responsive and committed to the integrity of our vote here in Minnesota. We met him once at the State Fair, and he spent a great deal of time making sure my son registered correctly, understood his rights and knew how to use the voting machine. He has shown great commitment in ensuring that the voting machines in Minnesota work for all citizens. We can all rest assured in Minnesota that all our votes will indeed count and be counted. So get out there and vote, everyone! CARRIE GILMER, BLAINE;

PRESIDENT, NATIONAL ORGANIZATION OF PARENTS OF BLIND CHILDREN