Just as the end of summer snuck up on us so unexpectedly, Election Day in Virginia is looming. In just a few weeks, on Nov. 7, Virginia voters will choose a Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General and all 100 members of the Virginia House of Delegates. The candidates are knocking on doors, sending mail, and sponsoring ads on radio and TV. The decisions voters make will set the course for the Commonwealth of Virginia for the next four years.

Here is some important information to assist citizens in casting a ballot.

If you are not registered to vote at your current address, the deadline for registration is Oct. 16. Fairfax County residents can register on-line at www.elections.virginia.gov/registration/ or in person at Fairfax County Office of Elections, 12000 Government Center Parkway, Suite 323 in Fairfax City. You may also register by mail. Applications are available at public libraries, DMV offices, and some community centers.

If you are not able to vote on Nov. 7, there are two ways to cast an absentee ballot. You can vote by mail if you submit an application for an absentee ballot by Oct. 31. You can apply for an absentee ballot on-line at vote.elections.virginia.gov/VoterInformation.

If you expect to be out of Fairfax County for any part of Election Day or otherwise qualify because of work obligations or health status, you may cast an absentee ballot in person before Election Day. In McLean and Great Falls, ballots can be cast at the McLean Government Center, 1437 Balls Hill Road in McLean, Monday through Saturday (except Columbus Day) until Friday, Nov. 3.

Because so many Americans have struggled and sacrificed to create and protect our democracy, voting is a sacred responsibility for every citizen. Please make a plan to vote and make sure your voice is heard in selecting the representatives we rely upon to advance our local interests and pursue the common good!

Rob Abbot

Arlington

The letter writer was a legislative assistant to Del. Margaret Vanderhye (D-34) in 2008-09.