Janzen honored for 30 years of service with Adams County Elections

Terry Janzen received recognition for her dedication to the Adams County community on Tuesday, July 12, in the Adams County Courthouse. Janzen received a certificate from Secretary of State Kim Wyman for Janzen’s volunteerism with elections.

The certificate acknowledged Janzen’s service in the election process and states,

“In recognition of 30 years of dedicated service and enduring commitment to Adams County as follows:

“For tirelessly helping ensure that all elections are transparent, fair and impartial; For your passion and willingness to educated new observers to the electives process, and For promoting awareness about the significance of democracy.

“We, the citizens of the State of Washington, appreciate and thank you for your commitment to the elections process and the community of Ritzville.”

Janzen has lived in Adams County since 1949 and said she likes the area because, “It is small enough that one knows everyone”.

Five of six of Janzen’s children were born in Ritzville and all six attended school here in town.

Janzen taught outdoor science education at Camp Wooten from 1973 until her retirement from the Ritzville school system. She said she even designed the Camp Wooten t-shirts 20 years ago.

Before she worked at the schools, she ran the Adams Lincoln Soil Lab under WSU for about 15 years.

She said she decided to becine involved with the election process because she believes everything about the government is important and the elections are one way she can give back.

The election process in its entirety deeply fascinates Janzen and continues to keep her interest after over 30 years of assisting. She said she continues to assist because she feels she is still needed.

Wyman and all those who attended the ceremony expressed their gratitude towards Janzen at the ceremony. They spoke on behalf of the entire Ritzville community when they said how lucky the city is to have someone like her around to help.

Janzen replied by stating she plans to stay active in the community and is happy to help out and give back in any way she can.