Plan now to vote in the Feb. 5 primary

Our opinions and letters of late have been full of ideas and suggestions as to why we are facing a multitude of issues and poor responses to those issues.

The League of Women Voters of the Elgin Area suggests that a part of the solution would be for everyone who is a citizen and 18 years or older by Feb. 5 to register, and then exercise their right to vote.

The primary election for many important local, state and federal offices, including president is Feb. 5. If you are eligible but not registered to vote, you have until Jan. 8 to do so.

Voter registration is as easy as taking two forms of identification to the Gail Borden Public Library and registering there at the adult services desk. You may also register at your local city hall, township, village office or the department of motor vehicles.

Many schools in our area also have a registrar on staff, and the League of Women Voters can provide registrars to attend meetings and gatherings where services are needed.

With the holidays fast approaching, the time is now to take care of this responsibility and become a registered voter. Plan ahead if you are going to be out of the country or unable to vote in person on Feb. 5 by applying for an absentee ballot between Dec. 27 and Jan. 31.

Civic and neighborhood organizations, student groups and anyone wanting to hold a voter registration drive can invite registrars to attend November and December meetings or events by contacting the Elgin group at www.elgin.il.lwvnet.org.

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization encouraging the informed and active participation of citizens in government.

Janet Poyner

President

League of Women Voters of the Elgin Area