I just got an email from Kathy Berg, one of the organizers of the upcoming 2011 general election candidates forum in Birch Bay. She explained the format for the forum, which is set for 7 p.m. tomorrow, Thursday, October 13, at Birch Bay Bible Community Church.

The candidate lineup will start with the unopposed candidates and a single spokesman for the Northwest Park and Recreation District 2 levy. Each will be given three minutes to state their position, those wishing to speak against the levy or any candidate will be given three minutes to speak, and one minute will be given for rebuttals, if desired.

The 16 candidates present for each of the nine races up for contention will then stand side-by-side before the crowd, and a coin flip will determine who speaks first.

Each candidate will by given three minutes to answer the following question: “Why are you the best candidate for the position you are seeking?” One minute for candidates’ rebuttals after the opposing candidate answers the question will be given, but rebuttals will not be required.

When all the candidates have had their say in this format, the floor will be opened to questions from the audience. The forum is anticipated to wrap up between 8:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.

Birch Bay Bible Community Church is located at 7039 Jackson Road, in Birch Bay. The forum is sponsored by the Birch Bay Steering Committee, the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce and The Northern Light.