Act now to be ready to vote in November

It’s time to be proactive. Don’t wait until October or November to find out what you may need to cast your vote. Don’t believe that voting in November will be as usual. It may be, but don’t assume and risk being denied your right.

These things may take some time, so start now …

· Update your ID or license with your correct address and update your voter registration.

· Make sure you know where your polling place is and watch for your options to vote early wherever possible. Many times, there will be an alternative polling place for voting early and lines are not as long as on Election Day.

· Do not trust USPS mail delivery to be on time. If you absolutely must mail in a ballot — do it well before Election Day.

· Find your passport and apply for renewal if it’s expired or will be expired by Election Day.

· Find your marriage certificate and birth certificate and any other documents verifying your name change.

· When it comes time to vote, reach out to friends, neighbors or relatives and plan to go vote together or assist them if necessary.

Freedom isn’t free. Thank those who honorably defend this country, remember those who sacrificed for our freedoms and help those working to protect your rights. Your voice and your vote matter.

Lisa Gillespie

Lake Barrington