Here come the candidates

Not everybody knows who's running for what this spring, let alone why it even matters. We hope to help clear up both those points.

With the May 20 primary election less than two weeks away and so much riding on the outcome, starting tomorrow The Press will put a spotlight on the area candidates in contested races whose names will appear on the ballot.

As we have done recently, the front page and subsequent space in the A section of the paper will be dedicated to candidate profiles. In past years, a truncated voters' guide was devoted to each election, and that publication was tucked inside the newspaper. By putting the candidate profiles right out front, more voters and potential voters are likely to learn about the people seeking to represent them.

* First up are candidates running in District 2 for seats in the Idaho Legislature. On Thursday, the following profiles will be published:

House seat A: Vito Barbieri vs. Fritz Wiedenhoff

House seat B: Ed Morse vs. Eric Redman

On Thursday, we'll also introduce you to Republican candidates for county assessor, Mike McDowell vs. Patrick Galles; and county coroner, Deb Wilkey vs. Warren Keene

* Friday, we'll publish profiles on Legislative District 3, including:

Senate: Bob Nonini vs. Pat Whalen

House seat A: Ron Mendive vs. Terry Werner

House seat B: (three-way) Don Cheatham, Greg Gfeller and Jeff Ward

Also scheduled Friday are contested races for county clerk, Democrats Larry Belmont vs. Alanna Brooks, and Republicans Jim Brannon vs. Don Pischner; and county treasurer, Democrats Janet Callen vs. Gordy Ormesher, and Republicans Steve Matheson vs. Laurie Thomas

* On Saturday, The Press will focus on legislative District 4, including:

Senate: John Goedde vs. Mary Souza

House seat A: Luke Malek vs. Toby Schindelbeck

House seat B: Rick Currie vs. Kathy Sims

Also planned for publication Saturday are profiles on candidates for Kootenai County commissioner District 1: Democrats Tamra Dale vs. Bruce Noble, and Republicans in a three-way race - Marc Eberlein, Tim Herzog and Todd Tondee.

Along with ongoing coverage of campaign announcements and local political forums, we believe these candidate profiles will help voters make informed choices. The rest is up to you.