EX-FELONS/VOTER RIGHTS

The issue of voting rights for former felons has been a heated one for some time now. Last year the State Legislature passed a law which allows "ex-fellons" who have lost their right to vote, to apply to the Board of Pardons & Paroles, for a certificate of eligibility to vote. One local non-profit group called "Tops", which stands for "The Ordinary People Society", is helping ex-felons who meet the criteria, to register and make their vote count. With this year`s election promising to be one of the closest in history, the group wants to make sure everyone who is eligible heads to the polls. Members think that being more involved in society will make ex-cons more productive. Kenneth Glasgow, Evangelist/Founder of "TOPS", says an ex-felon must finish parole probation, must have paid all fines and court costs, have no felons charges pending, and can`t have one felon charge of treason, murder, or sex offenses..if they fit this criteria, they will fill out application, and within forty-five days evaluate, check and make sure everything is in order, and make a ruling. If you, or someone you know, is interested in becoming registered, "TOPS" is hosting a registration event on Saturday evening. It will be at 403 West Powell Street. For more information, you can contact Kenneth Glasgow at 791-2433.