It's that time again!

Yes, they are still counting votes from the primary election, but if you are planning to run in the fall for a non-partisan seat on a local board or Council, now's the time to start. Gathering endorsements, making phone calls for fundraising. Hiring a consultant and getting your website up. Don't wait until July. In fact, snag a slot in the July 4th parade with your group of friends and a few signs even if they're homemade. Let people know you are running.

Start thinking about your issues, your bio, and planning that 200 word campaign statement. Assemble a small "Kitchen cabinet" to help you with issues and tasks that need to get done, like setting up houseparties, ordering walk and phone lists, interviewing consultants, a treasurer and maybe a fundraiser. You want to be organized, have a short timely message and enough funds to send out some mail, buy a few house signs and have a good handout to take with you to events and hand out at voters' homes once you hit the campaign trail in earnest.

Eat light but do go for the brain food.Here's a quick and tasty recipe:

Yummy salmon tostada

8 6-inch corn tortillas Canola oil cooking spray 1 6- to 7-ounce can boneless, skinless wild Alaskan salmon, drained 1 avocado, diced 2 tablespoons minced pickled jalapeños, plus 2 tablespoons pickling juice from the jar, divided 2 cups coleslaw mix (see Tip) or shredded cabbage 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro 1 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed 3 tablespoons reduced-fat sour cream 2 tablespoons prepared salsa 2 scallions, chopped Lime wedges (optional)

 Preparation

1. Position racks in upper and lower thirds of the oven; preheat to 375°F.
2. Coat tortillas on both sides with cooking spray. Place on 2 baking sheets. Bake, turning once, until light brown, 12 to 14 minutes.
3. Combine salmon, avocado and jalapenos in a bowl. Combine cabbage, cilantro and the pickling juice in another bowl. Process black beans, sour cream, salsa and scallions in a food processor until smooth. Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover and microwave on High until hot, about 2 minutes.
4. To assemble tostadas, spread each tortilla with some bean mixture and some salmon mixture and top with the cabbage salad. Serve with lime wedges, if desired.