As the June 6 election day turned into night, the Shelby County Reporter staff geared up for a long evening of coverage.

As soon as the polls closed at 7 p.m. staff members headed to election parties across the county to help give our readers an inside look at what happens in the camps on as the ballots are being counted.

From Alabama Senator Hank Erwin&8217;s re-election party in Pelham to Shelby County Sheriff Chris Curry&8217;s get together at the United Methodist Church in Columbiana, each candidate allowed us an inside look as the results started coming in.

During a stressful election season, candidates usually have little or no time to spend with family and friends.

The election night parties, along with being a great way to watch the ballot returns, serves as a time for these worn out, tired candidates to enjoy some moments with their loved ones.

It would not have been wrong for any of them to refuse the Reporter inside access to these events.

Thankfully, our local politicians understand the importance of letting the public see how things work.

A special thanks needs to be given to every candidate who allowed us to share in both the joy and sadness that comes with winning or losing an election.

Probate Judge Patricia Fuhrmeister&8217;s office was also hospitable during the evening.

Now county tradition, the courthouse was stocked with barbeque and desert for those waiting on the results to enjoy.

Thank you to all the volunteers and officials that made the June 6 primary in Shelby County run so smoothly