Poll workers -- any advice for a newbie?

[moriah]

This will be my first time being a poll worker.

Since I normally work 13+ hour days the length of the day shouldn't be too hard on me, but...

Any advice from people who have done it before? I'm planning on bringing an ice chest with snacks, for me and to share. I've been also thinking about slapping a nicotine patch on for today, since I'm one of those awful smokers.

I had thought it was a volunteer position, but when they called me yesterday to let me know they did need me, turns out it is a paid position. If Christmas wasn't coming up I might turn down the money, but ... things are too tight right now for me to do that.

[PAMod]

1. First off, thanks for serving...

Ask a lot of questions, volunteer to cross train (learn each station.) Be as valuable as you can be.

You are going to love it (your feet may not love it.)

It is a great way to get to know your neighbors. Have fun, interact with the voters & poll watchers - help to make the whole experience a positive one for every one. It will make the day better for you too.

Make sure your judge is proactive helping lost voters find their polling place, and make sure your judge understands that anyone who tries to vote today should be accomodated to the extent possible under the law (not on the registration books anywhere? give 'em a provisional ballot - let the county sort it out later.)

When the day is over, hurry home and bask in a Democratic victory!

[Kind of Blue]

2. Hi, I don't know if you're going to be working in a building or

in someone's garage but dress warmly whether you're in cold climate or not. I froze my ass off in '04 and I'm in SoCal! Try to be nice to everyone, Dems and Repubs alike. It took everything out of me not to knock the smugness off some of the Repubs' faces or feel depressed by their turnout the last time. I'm not encouraging you to smoke but I needed mine in '04 and smoked 'em in my car. I wish I had brought enough food too so it's good you're packing an ice chest. All in all, it was a whole lot of fun and I felt great at the end of the day.

[moriah]

3. Thanks for the advice, both of you....:)

I'm going to jump in the shower now, and looking forward to a very productive day! :)

[GreenInNC]

4. smile and say thank you for voting