Let the school board race begin!

Now that primaries are over,  it's time to start thinking about the Nov. 5 school board race. We've got information on all 12 candidates posted on the Observer's voter site, and I'll be working to keep you up to date as the board race and the bond campaigns gear up.  (Yeah, I realize some folks are running for Charlotte mayor, too, but Jim Morrill has got that under control.)

Please let me know about opportunities to meet the candidates and/or learn more about the bonds for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and Central Piedmont Community College.  And if your group posts candidate questionnaires,  send me a link.  I've got a list of resources at right,  under the photo,  and I'll keep adding to it  (including any more candidates who create web sites).

A quick recap,  for anyone who hasn't tuned in yet:  Mecklenburg voters will choose six district representatives Nov. 5,  with the three at-large candidates up for a vote in 2015.  You only vote for the seat in your own district  (here's the map and here's how to look up your district).  Party affiliation isn't listed on the ballot, but we've included that in our information in case you're interested.

Joyce Waddell,  the incumbent in District 3,  is guaranteed to return, as she drew no opposition.

And District 6 is guaranteed to get a new member.  Tim Morgan, who was elected to that seat in 2009,  moved to an at-large seat two years later.  Amelia Stinson-Wesley,  appointed to fill the district seat,  isn't running.  Three people  --  Paul Bailey,  Bolyn McClung and Doug Wrona  -- are seeking that post.

The other four races each have an incumbent facing one challenger.  In District 1, Christine Mast hopes to get Rhonda Lennon's seat.  In District 2,  Thelma Byers-Bailey is challenging incumbent Richard McElrath.  In District 4,  Queen Elizabeth Thompson hopes to oust Tom Tate, the board's senior member with eight years under his belt.  And in District 5,  Edward Donaldson is challenging Eric Davis.

Voters will also be asked to approve $290 million in bonds for CMS and $210 million for CPCC.  It's the first bond vote for either group since 2007.

Early voting starts Oct. 17.  And remember:  Your neighbors probably won't vote  (turnout is always low in off years),  so you carry extra clout if you do.  If you're not already registered,  do so by Oct. 11 to be eligible.