Polling place felt right at home

For the past several years, my precinct has voted at Rivers Community Church on Corsa Avenue in Westlake Village. From the first time I voted there, I have wanted to publicly thank the good people of that church for their extraordinary welcome to those who cast their ballots there.

The first thing voters see when they enter the church is a long, beautifully decorated table, positively brimming with all kinds of goodies: water bottles, juice bottles, bagels, muffins, fresh fruit, etc. The voters are greeted by smiling church members who invite them to help themselves, either on their way in or on their way out. The church doesn't do this for any reason other than to support members of the community as they take part in this American rite, this American right.

As the voters depart, they wear two things they probably didn't come in with: the ubiquitous "I Voted" sticker, and the warm feeling that their votes are important and appreciated. I commend Rivers Community Church for affirming the value of participation in the American process. Laurel Murray Westlake Village