POST FALLS - Local Republicans will rally their troops for the election season in a "One Voice for Victory" event featuring Gov. Butch Otter as keynote speaker on April 30.

"We are ready to speak with a unified voice and purpose for November's election," said Jerry Baltzell of the Panhandle Pachyderm Club, the event's sponsor.

The theme is "Diversity of our strength."

It is not a fundraiser.

Baltzell said candidates and various groups are working hard for the May 15 primary election. He said they want to stay connected in effort to ensure Republican victories in the November general election.

"This event is being held as part of the focus of the Panhandle Pachyderm Club in an effort to maintain unity for November, while recognizing the strength of the Republican Party's diversity during the primary election process," he said.

Betty Ann Henderson said the goal is not to get all groups to agree on a fixed group of candidates, but to harness their collective energies to gain an understanding of differences.

"We're trying to unite all the Republicans in North Idaho," she said. "If achieved, this goal will become a powerful force to achieve governmental changes."

Ron Nilson of Ground Force Manufacturing will serve as master of ceremonies, while local youth Colby Acuff will provide patriotic music during the social time.

The gathering will be at Red Lion Templin's Hotel in Post Falls.

The social time starts at 6 p.m. and the chicken dinner starts at 6:30 p.m.

Cost is $20, and tickets can be reserved until April 20 by calling Barbara Baltzell at 773-8982, Char Carstensen 777-9684 or Betty Ann Henderson at 773-2269.