Informed votes critical part of a healthy, vibrant democracy

How are you going to decide for whom to vote on Nov. 7?

Please, for the love of democracy, don't base your vote on a letter you receive in the mail from out of county or a phone call or a yard sign. There is too much at stake.

As we have mentioned many times in this space over the years, democracy is in desperate need of your help.

The election turnout in the primary vote in May was poor. The turnout for a levy for our schools in September was even lower.

At the Daily Bee we feel we have a responsibility to inform our readers by at least providing opportunities for all of us to cast informed votes.

Beginning this Sunday, we will run a series of stories exploring key races on November's ballot. The first story will center on the state legislative District 1, Position B, race between incumbent Republican George Eskridge and Democrat Bob Wynhausen.

In addition to the most political coverage this paper has ever offered, we are also sponsoring a series of political forums so that we all can see the candidates face to face.

The dates for these forums are Oct. 16 for the countywide races; Oct. 17 for the statewide races and Oct. 18 for all candidates running for office.

The forums are co-sponsored by the Lake Pend Oreille School District and the Daily Bee and will be held at the Sandpoint High School auditorium.

Each night the forum will begin at 6:30 p.m. Doors will open at 6 p.m. Of course there is no charge.

There are also other forums throughout the county from now until election day. We are gathering those dates and will run them in the paper as well.

This is an important election year and I want you to know that your local paper will continue to do its best to inform you and help you cast an informed vote.

? David Keyes is the publisher of the Daily Bee.