November general election dates

Those planning to vote in the general election may want to calendar these dates.

• Regular voter registration closes on Tuesday, October 7. Let any unregistered family and friends know this. You can do this at the County Clerk's offices, municipal clerks' offices, or a Sec. of State drivers' facility. I as well as many organizations have "motor voter" cards that let you register quickly and easily.

• "Grace period registration" is from Wednesday, October 08, 2008 - Tuesday, October 21, 2008 for those who miss the above deadline, but you have to do it in person at a Clerk's office location. You can't vote early if you miss the regular deadline. Save time, do it early.

• Absentee ballot applications are accepted at the Cook County Clerk's office beginning September 25 for those who will be out of town, away at school, serving as election judges, etc. Note you have to first apply for the absentee ballot, then once you get it, mail it back or drop it off before the election.

• "Early voting" polls open on October 13, 2008 for those of who will be otherwise occupied on Election Day.

• The election is Tue., Nov. 4. Polls are open 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

For more information see the Cook County Clerk's website.