No, the summer isn’t passing any faster than usual this year.

Labor Day is still two weeks and a day away, and school won’t resume in Spokane until a day after that. But, yes, the 2007 primary election is upon us. If you haven’t voted by a little more than 48 hours from now, it will be too late.

Important nominating decisions are being made a month earlier than they used to be because general election ballots have to be prepared early enough to meet vote-by-mail deadlines.

As of early Friday afternoon, 35,800 of the 159,497 primary election ballots mailed to registered voters in Spokane County had been returned. If you’re among the thousands of voters across Spokane County who haven’t returned yours yet, there’s still time – a little more than 48 hours.

Meanwhile, here’s a recap of the endorsements made earlier this month by The Spokesman-Review editorial board.

Mayor of Spokane

Dennis Hession: The incumbent mayor is facing a serious test from four challengers. Two – council members Al French and Mary Verner – are particularly formidable candidates, but Hession has the advantage of having done the job, and done it well.

First elected to the City Council, Hession later ran for and was elected council president. After voters recalled Mayor Jim West, the City Council itself had confidence enough in Hession to name him to serve out the term.

The confidence was not misplaced. The city is performing well, and re-electing Hession would promise political stability under a capable hand.

Council District 1

Donna McKereghan: This council seat, which represents northeast Spokane, calls for a change from incumbent Councilman Bob Apple, who too often finds himself isolated from other council members. Going against the tide has its place, but public interests would be better served by a council member with the energy and savvy to dig into issues and help craft collaborative solutions. Challenger Donna McKereghan has shown herself eager and able to take on that role.

Council District 2

Richard Rush: Richard Rush, who is trying to knock off one-term incumbent Brad Stark on Spokane’s South Side, is a relative newcomer but has worked hard at the neighborhood level to demonstrate his commitment to the city’s well-being. He has articulated a compelling vision of a city that backs up its “near nature, near perfect” motto, in part by having a comprehensive plan that is clear and consistently applied.

Council District 3

John Waite: Legislative bodies need at least one voice that can be counted on for an unorthodox contribution to the conversation. John Waite, seeking the northwest Spokane seat being vacated by Rob Crow, represents that and more. As the young (42) owner of a small business downtown he understands the economic pressures that city policies apply – and he both understands and represents a population sector that is crucial to Spokane’s resurgence as a vibrant urban center.