Ballots are the currency of a democracy

The last day to register to vote in the Nov. 4 election is Mon., Oct. 20. A completed voter registration form must be postmarked by that date to be included in the election. Given the stakes in this year's races—local, state and national—there's no excuse for any citizen to remain on the sidelines.

Ballots are the currency of a free society.

Registration forms are available at most libraries, city halls, fire stations, post offices and Chambers of Commerce. Election and voter information, plus online registration forms, can be found at the California Secretary of State's website, www.sos.ca.gov/elections.

For other information, contact your county elections office. In Ventura County, call the clerk-recorder at (805) 654-2781, or visit www.recorder.countyofventura.org/ elections. In Los Angeles County, call (562) 466-1310 or visit www.lavote.net.

There's still time for registered voters to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot, formerly known as an absentee ballot, by contacting their county elections office or by completing the vote-by-mail ballot application that is included in their sample ballot. The ballots also can be downloaded from the state's website. All vote-by-mail applications must reach the elections office by Oct. 28. The completed ballots must be returned to the polls by 8 p.m. on Nov. 4.

Of course, the easiest way to exercise your right to vote is to keep your registration current and on Election Day simply walk or drive to your local precinct and cast your ballot. It's a right that we Americans hold dear and have fought and died for many times.

Because the issues are grave, voter turnout is expected to reach record numbers this year. Make sure your voice is heard. Vote on Nov. 4.