Time running out to register for primary

Want to put Obama in the Oval Office? Want to make Huckabee your presidential Huckleberry? Do you like McCain for McPresident?

Well, whatever your preference, you first have to be registered in Cook County to vote in the Feb. 5 primary, and, if you're not already registered, you have less than one week to do it.

If you've recently moved and haven't registered at your new address, you could find yourself out of luck when you try to visit the polls, the Cook County clerk's office is reminding voters.

You can print out an application to register by visiting www.voterinfonet.com or you can call (312) 603-0906 to request one by mail. Applications must be postmarked by Jan. 8, the deadline to register.

With that date rapidly approaching, some potential voters might feel better registering in person, and can do so at 69 W. Washington St., Room 500 in Chicago, or at the county courthouse in Rolling Meadows at 2121 Euclid Ave., Room 238. Registration can also be performed at the county courthouse in Skokie, at 5600 W. Old Orchard Road, Room 149.

Most municipal and township clerks also register voters. You must bring two forms of ID, including one with your current address, such as a utility bill.

After Jan. 8, you can still register to vote during a special two-week grace period from Jan. 9 through Jan. 22, but grace-period registration can be done only in person downtown at 69 W. Washington.