ST. PETERSBURG -- Anyone else getting the feeling that Steve Kornell and Angela Rouson have turned the District 5 race into an endorsement war?

He announced he had been endorsed by restaurateur Mike Atwater Thursday afternoon. Hours later, the Rouson camp announced Pinellas County Commissioner Nancy Bostock was backing Rouson.

Here's the press release:

Angela Rouson is pleased to announce another major endorsement from a Pinellas County Leader.

Pinellas County Commissioner Nancy Bostock has given her endorsement and full support of Angela Rouson for St. Petersburg City Council District 5.

Commissioner Bostock has given the following remarks: "These are challenging times for all levels of government. We need leaders like Angela Rouson; leaders who have the experience necessary to make difficult choices. Of course, I also admire Angela's compassion and vision. That is why I am supporting her for City Council."

Cristina Silva, Times staff writer