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2012
Volume III
The Campbell County Observer
August 10, 2012
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ELECTION GUIDE
August 10 - 17, 2012
Campbell County Observer • 2012 Election Guide/Paid Candidate Advertising
Questions and Answers from State Senator/Representative Candidates Do you believe that municipalities should have the right to supersede state constitutional law? (i.e. the Casper Gun Ban) Why or why not? – Question by Glenn Woods (Campbell County Observer Political Columnist and Radio Talk Show Host on 1270 KIML Gillette). Eric Barlow: No. The only law that may supersede the Wyoming Constitution is the supreme law of the land, the Constitution of the United States of America. Because municipalities are political subdivisions of the State of Wyoming, all their authority must come from State statute. Therefore, if citizens believe that a municipality has enacted ordinances which are contrary to the Wyoming Constitution, they should petition the courts to review both the ordinance and the statute upon which it is based. Tom Lubnau: Municipalities do not have the right to supersede the Wyoming constitution. The constitution is a set of principals which are overriding, and require a vote of a majority of the citizens to change. The constitution, both state and federal, is a statement of our rights, and should not be overruled by any elected body. A constitution is the very heart of a government of laws, not men. If our overriding principals become optional, then our government falls apart. Norine Kasperik: I don’t believe that municipalities have the right to supersede state constitutional law. Wyoming’s Constitution gives the right of citizens to bear arms in defense of themselves and also empowers cities and towns to determine their local affairs and government. It also states that the powers and authorities granted to cities and towns shall be liberally construed for the purpose of giving the largest measure of self-government to cities and towns. Current law restricts the carrying of a
SF0083 was recently passed in 2012, putting a small business owner out of business. This young gentleman found a way to create (roll your owns) through a machine, and sell his product locally at Jack’s Liquor. I know the man, and he was planning to expand his business to Casper and Cheyenne. The point of small business and capitalism is to find better ways to produce your product or service better, faster, and cheaper than your competition. His competition was Camel, Marlboro, and the other giants. If you were in the legislature, did you vote for this bill and why? If you are running for a legislature position, would you have voted for this bill and why? – Question by Jonathon Trabowski Tom Lubnau: I voted for the tax. Cigarettes are taxed at a certain rate. Whether the cigarettes are manufactured in North Carolina or in a machine in a liquor store in Wyoming, same products – cigarettes – should be taxed at the same rate. If someone were to create a manufacturing device to circumvent the tax, and be allowed to do so, then the tax would be nullified. Rest assured, if the manufacturing machine would have been allowed to circumvent the tax, the giants would be installing machines at every store in Wyoming. If the only advantage the small business owner had was circumventing the taxes, and selling his product for cheaper than the competition, that was an unfair statecreated tax advantage. States should not pick winners and losers with tax policy. Similar products should be taxed similarly, to allow the free market to work. If the small business owner was selling highquality products for a competitive price, absent tax advantages, then the product should sell, and the small business owner should be in business. Should we exempt gasoline from taxation by shipping oil to the gas station, and having mini-refineries at the pump, where the oil is refined, in the pump system, and then delivered to the car. The ultimate product, gasoline, is the same thing that goes into the tank, either way. Should we have different taxation systems for where the
concealed firearm in “any meeting of a governmental entity”. It does not specifically address open carry of a firearm. I would support clarifying this issue if a bill comes forward in the next session. It may also be necessary for a challenge to be determined by the courts. Merle McClure: No. If you start letting the municipalities supersede state constitutional law, state residents will never know if they are breaking the law when they travel through different cities in the state. Furthermore, state constitutional law should only be changed or modified by due legal process, not municipalities. Douglas Gerard: No one has the right to violate a state law, individual, company or subsidiary government (city, county, hospital district etc…). With regards to the Caspar Gun Ban the problem is with the Casper City Council, in my opinion, over broadly interpreting the statute that allows the city to regulate conduct which jeopardizes the public health, safety, peace or morality of any public or private place. The open carrying of a firearm at a city council meeting in my opinion just isn’t a threat, period. It was inappropriate of the Casper City Council to consider it as one. Sue Wallis: Generally speaking, I believe that the best government is the least government, and that government should be as close to the people as possible. There are instances where our statutes say that local governments can impose stronger regulations that go beyond state or federal law, but that they cannot pass local ordinances that are not equal to whatever the state (or federal law) states. If, however, a local government is seeking to impose an ordinance that impacts the constitutional rights of individuals, then I do not believe that local governments have that power any more than state or federal ones do.
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product is manufactured? The analysis is the same for cigarettes. What comes out of the machine, or in the package across the counter is the same product. Same products should be taxed in the same way, so as not to give unfair advantage to one party. Merle McClure: Yes, I would have voted for it with a couple additions that would make it easier for the businessman to market his machine. As long as his cigarette taxes are paid and he is bonded, he should be allowed to rent out and install as many machines as he wishes. Douglas Gerard: I applaud the ingenuity this inventor has shown as it is the heart and soul of American business. The core issue here is not capitalism or the stifling of small business, but making sure that our laws apply to all people the same. The ingenuity and creativity of the machine isn’t really the difference here. SF83 only changes the taxes applied to the cigarettes manufactured by the machine. If the process made a difference in either quality or other factor, the cigarettes the machine produced would still be a better value than those produced by the major brands, even with the added taxes that SF-83 levied by closing the roll-your-own loop hole. The real advantage was exploiting a loop hole in the tax law to avoid paying the taxes others pay for manufacturing the same product. As near as I can tell this is the true source of the competitive advantage the roll-your-own cigarette machines had over traditional cigarettes. It seems to me that what SF-83 does is make commercial cigarette manufacture regardless of location the same. If it were a machine used at home, it would be a different story. How long would it be on seeing the viability of this loophole that the major manufacturers would produce their own machines to exploit the same loop hole? Continued on Pages 3 & 4
Campbell County Observer • 2012 Election Guide/Paid Candidate Advertising
August 10 - 17, 2012
State Senator/Representative Candidates... Continued from Page 2 I am not a tax fan and I want to keep them as low as possible. However, one thing I absolutely despise is special carve outs, loop holes and preferences that provide a preference for one group over another. Our laws must apply to everyone the same. Norine Kasperik: I supported SF 83 which amended Wyoming statute to include cigarette rolling machines as a manufacturer of cigarettes. The Wyoming statute defines the regulation and taxation of tobacco. I applaud the gentleman for his innovation and entrepreneurship. However, it was very difficult to exclude his cigarette rolling machine as a manufacturer of cigarettes as we debated this bill in the Wyoming House of Representatives. Sue Wallis: I am uncertain how the bill we passed could have possibly been construed to put someone out of business. All that SF 83 did, which I voted for based on the information I had at the time, was define a person who has a machine to “roll your own” at either at retail or wholesale establishment as a cigarette manufacturer. This seems rather obvious, but perhaps some people like this gentlemen were avoiding paying taxes based on the fact we didn’t have a definition in our statutes? Cigarette manufacturers are required to pay tobacco taxes regardless of whether they are big or small. Just because you are a small business should not make you exempt from paying taxes that apply to everyone else in the same business, so in my mind this has nothing to do with who the competition is, but everything to do with making sure that taxes are fair, and universally applied to everyone in the same business. Eric Barlow: State actions should encourage business and entrepreneurship, not eliminate them. Without the benefit of participating in the deliberation of this bill or doing a exhaustive review of the record, it appears
its passage resulted in licensing requirements and possibly a double taxation of the tobacco. If this is the case, both items are concerning for me, bureaucracy and increased costs. The 28 to 2 third reading vote in the Senate and the 46 to 12 third reading vote in the House may indicate there was growing dissatisfaction with this bill. Legislation should be purposeful, practical and fiscally responsible. It is unclear if this bill was.
Eric Barlow: At this time, the Legislature has enumerated eleven instances where concealed firearms are restricted. In the case of colleges and universities, statute allows the institution’s security service to determine acceptability through written consent. If this statutory limitation and condition is unacceptable to citizens, then the Courts are the most obvious recourse. If a bill were brought forward repealing this restriction, I would consider the interests presented with regard to this restriction and the others. Tom Lubnau: Yes.
Should law abiding citizens be able to carry a concealed firearm at a college or university campus in Wyoming? – Question by Wayne Elliot: Political director of the Wyoming Gunowners Association Merle McClure: Since it is on school property, anyone carrying a state issued concealed weapon permit, should be entitled to carry a weapon of his or her choice for his or her protection. Douglas Gerard: The NRA endorsed my campaign for House District 3 with their highest possible rating ‘AQ’ for a reason. This answer is simply YES. Norine Kasperik: Current statutes state that no person authorized to carry a concealed firearm shall carry a concealed firearm into any school, college or professional athletic event not related to firearms and any college or university facility without the written consent of the security services of the college or university. I would support addressing and debating this issue in the state legislature. I favor not restricting a citizen’s gun rights. Sue Wallis: Absolutely. I believe that the constitutional provision in regards to the bearing of arms is absolute, and that as free American citizens we have the right to defend ourselves regardless of where we are.
“Individual rights are not subject to a public vote; a majority has no right to vote away the rights of a minority; the political function of rights is precisely to protect minorities from oppression by majorities (and the smallest minority on earth is the individual).” - Ayn Rand
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August 10 - 17, 2012
Campbell County Observer • 2012 Election Guide/Paid Candidate Advertising
State Senator/Representative Candidates... Continued from Pages 2 & 3 What have you done (incumbents) or what will you do (candidates) to assert Wyoming’s State’s rights? If you believe that the State’s shouldn’t have rights, why? –Question by William BagleyNorine Kasperik: I support the sovereignty of the states and have supported multiple bills and resolutions to support this including: • Wyoming’s Wolf Management Plan • The Health Care Freedom Act allowing individuals the right to make their own health care decisions which voters will decide this November • Wyoming’s right to regulate its own air quality • A joint resolution proposing to amend the Wyoming Constitution by recognizing and preserving the heritage of Wyoming’s citizens’ opportunity to fish, hunt and trap Sue Wallis: I have worked wholeheartedly and supported a number of different efforts to reassert Wyoming’s primacy over our land, water, air, endangered species, mineral resources, agricultural and food regulation and more over the time that I have had the honor of serving Campbell County as your Representative in the House of Representatives. These efforts continue. I have been a part of a nation-wide effort to put the States on the same level as Congress as was envisioned by our Founding Fathers so that if three quarters of the State legislatures pass an identically worded constitutional amendment that it would automatically go to a vote of the people for ratification, with or without Congress. I have been and continue to be a supporter of the effort passed this last year in Utah, and which is now being contemplated in most Western states that would require the federal government to relinquish their control over all public lands in the state except those that are military, or inside of national parks or national monuments. When Wyoming became a state we were promised to be entered into the Union equal to all other states, just like every other state, but only
in the West was that promise reneged on, leaving the Western states alone at a serious disadvantage. See http://AreWeNotAState.com for more information on this critical issue for our state. Eric Barlow: Asserting Wyoming’s rights in this Republic requires vigilance. Three items I am interested in are: 1. Pay attention to the “strings” attached to all federal money and don’t take it if our rights are diminished; 2. Don’t adopt more federal laws and rules, and review the acceptability of the ones already adopted; and 3. Fulfill primacy obligations Wyoming has made with regard to federal law, or sever the obligation. Merle McClure: I will do my best to get federal regulation out of Wyoming State business, especially the EPA, BLM, and ObamaCare. Wyoming is more capable of taking care of Wyoming business, environment , and health instead of a Washington, DC based entity. Tom Lubnau: In cooperation with Utah and Alaska, I sponsored, and sponsored the reauthorization of the Energy Producing States Coalition. The purpose of the coalition is to gather the states, at the state level, and work cooperatively with sister energy producing states to push back on federal government overregulation. We have worked cooperatively to push back on ANWR, coal shipments and states property rights. I currently chair that effort. Participation in the effort is growing amongst energy producing states, and is a new experiment in federalism. Additionally, I have sponsored several pieces of legislation that have had the effect of foiling, or heading off the federal government at the pass. One of the legislative efforts I sponsored, most recently, sprung out of the Energy Producing States Coalition. I sponsored a baseline monitoring bill, which allows the State of Wyoming
to gather baseline data, before a species is listed on the endangered species list, before in stream flow legislation occurs, and before the federal government designates a wilderness or roadless area. By creating good data, we can foil the federal encroachment from an offensive, rather than a defensive position. Douglas Gerard: I have been active in the campaign to pass the Wyoming Health Care Freedom Amendment since 2008. Long before Obamacare was the cool law to fight against, I was
standing up and taking a stand. I was the one that led the charge for Wyoming to defend her citizens using strong Ninth and Tenth Amendment grounds. In fact in 2009 I convinced Senator Hines to introduce SJ-3 and was the only one to testify in front of the Wyoming Senate’s Health Labor and Social Services Committee that year. In the coming years we will have to continue this theme to protect our citizens from egregious overreach of the federal government. I also would like Wyoming to take a more aggressive stand against federal regulation that harms Wyoming families by threatening our jobs and industries.
Official Disclosure from the Campbell County Observer
Opinions expressed in these four special editions of the Campbell County Observer 2012 Election Guide are not the opinions of the Campbell County Observer or it’s staff. We have decided to do our election guide different than other newspapers this year. First, you will only see the answers and interviews from the candidates that paid the money to get in our Election Guide. We did this for two reasons. First, most newspapers charge outrageous prices for candidates advertising and give them minimal coverage throughout. We have found a way to pay for the printing of our special section, save the candidates money, and give them the exposure they deserve while also giving the voters more information to cast a proper vote. The Campbell County Observer or our staff will not endorse any candidate. We believe that providing the voter of Campbell County with the information they need would be the best effort we can do during the election. We apologize for any candidate that did not pay in to answer the questions and therefor will not be in our guide. Many of these have full time jobs while running for office, and may not have the financing to do so. All candidates may still pay in and enter in the remaining issues. Public Questions to the Candidates will be accepted. Please email your questions to CampbellCountyObserver@gmail.com
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Campbell County Observer • 2012 Election Guide/Paid Candidate Advertising
August 10 - 17, 2012
Questions and Answers from City Council Candidates Do you believe that the size of the City of Gillette’s government is too big, too small, or where it is supposed to be? Why? If too big or small, how do you plan on growing or shrinking it? – Question by Laura Kiefer Scott Clem: This is a great question, and one that I have pondered in my own mind. Let me begin by saying that our city adminstrator, mayor, and city council try to be mindful of restricting government’s influence in the affairs of citizens. I believe government’s role is primarily that of public safety. We have ordinances in place to make sure people’s rights are not infringed upon, we have peace officers to enforce these laws, and a court system to bring justice upon those who would break these laws. I believe our government has the role of taking care of streets, infrastructure, and parks. In order to have consistency in road construction, building construction, electrical services, ect., I believe it is the government’s role to enforce some baseline of codes and standards. However, government needs to walk a fine line. Standards and regulations that are too relaxed or non-existent can lead to confusion, disorder and may border on negligence. Standards and regulations that are too stringent are an over reach of government and is counter productive to business. Government is a necessary evil. A very unique characteristic of our municipality is the public ballot initiated 1% penny tax. These monies allow the council to approve capital improvement projects and help fund social services agencies. Without the penny tax, I would question governments role in spending tax money for capital improvement projects, art, ect. . After reviewing the city’s organization chart, I do believe we have a good balance of where things need to be. I do not believe that the size of our government is too small and see no reason to allow our government to grow. I do believe that some areas of our government, like solid waste and the recyling program, could be better off in the private sector versus being under government control. Should I be elected, I will carefully scrutize the size of government and its role in our lives. This is not a one time event. Examination of the size of government is an ongoing process.
John Wayne: This is a great question to ask. I believe that the city is right sized for our current population, infrastructure, and services being provided to the City of Gillette. Yet this is not static and must be reviewed periodically because of population changes, federal regulation changes, revenue, service needs, or project needs. Adding and decreasing the number of city employees should be done carefully. When adding employees: Is this a short term need or long term need? Temporary, part time, or full time? What is the cost of the position including taxes and benefits? How will the city and its citizen’s benefit from this new employee? When reducing employees: Is this a short or a long term need? Can this reduction be handled through attrition or retirement? What is the effect to the city and its citizens if this position is eliminated? Budget Philosophy: Fiscally responsible budgeting depends on City revenues and reserves I believe in a holistic approach to budgeting which means if revenues are projected to be down five percent you cut all departments five percent with the possible exception of departments responsible for public safety such as police and fire. If revenues are up you could consider an extra infusion in reserves for a rainy day or the reduction of fees to apply for city permits or a budget increase which would be fair to all the departments involved which all serve the community. What do you think is the most important duty as a City Council person? – Question by Darrel Jacobson Scott Clem: A city councilman is a representative and servant for the people. A person given to public service is there to listen to contituents, to volunteer in areas that would benifit the community, and to be responsible public funds. It is NOT a position to gain power and prestige or to lord over people’s lives. This is a position of service! If a person is only looking out for themselves and how they can benefit from the position, they should NOT be elected.
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John Wayne: Listen and represent the people that elected you as their representative in the ward while staying true to your core principles.
Despite being under budget, do you think the city of Gillette could reduce the size of City government spending? If so, how? – Question by Glenn Woods (Campbell County Observer Political Columnist and Radio Talk Show Host on 1270 KIML Gillette). John Wayne: I am proud to live in a city that is under budget; there are not too many American citizens or cities that can make that claim. Unfortunately, I believe there will be a revenue shortfall next year which should be handled with a holistic approach which would be equal budget reductions across the board with the possible exception of departments responsible for public safety. Scott Clem: It is of necessity that we are aware of our economic climate and how this will impact us in regards to our budget. I think the best practice in putting together a budget is to make sure every dollar has a name. Every dollar should be spent on paper before actual money is exchanged. The total amount of revenue should equal the total amount that is spent or allocated. A sure way to pay off debt and increase reserves is to produce a budget with this concept. So, for instance, if the categories in the general fund, ect., are under the actual amount of revenue (under budget), the city budget should indicate where the rest of these monies should go, whether to reserve accounts or to pay off debt. The total amount of revenue minus the total amounts of debits should equal zero. To re-emphasize, all the money should be spent paper first! Government, by its very nature, likes to grow. Deliberate steps must be taken to restrict government growth. This type of thing has to be done on purpose, and its something I am willing and capable to
do. As passionate as I am about saving money and paying off debt, I know that our city leadership must have a vision for the future. The Bible states this very clearly, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” There is a time and season for everything. No doubt, there will be budget years in which spending is reduced. These are times when the city should put the emphasis on saving. Likewise, there will be seasons or times where spending is increased, or revenues are down. It is during these times that we can be thankful that money was put into reserves. Do you believe that the City of Gillette has the right to create further firearm restrictions (i.e. a City Property Gun Ban) above and beyond the laws created by the State Legislature? – Question by Wayne Elliot: Political Director of the Wyoming Gunowners AssociationScott Clem: No, I don’t. The right to bear arms is a fundamental right. I’m a firm believer that gun laws don’t protect people. Gun laws disarm innocent people against the attacks of gun wielding assailants. If a person really wants to harm others, gun laws are not going to stand in his way. Rather, the assailant will mock his victims and feel empowered due to the fact that he has a weapon and nobody else does. How does this play out in real life? Municipalities all over our nation have mulled over some type of ordinance that would keep guns out of city council chambers, ect. People say they feel more safe knowing that guns won’t be allowed. Almost all citizens will obey such an ordinace, except for the crazy mad man who is hell bent on murder. He could care less about any gun restrictions. I would much rather live and work in areas that do not restrict guns. At least then, if God forbid someone was aiming for murder, I feel like I would have some type of fighting chance. John Wayne: No!!! I am a gun owner and a strong supporter of our second amendment.
August 10 - 17, 2012
Campbell County Observer • 2012 Election Guide/Paid Candidate Advertising
Scott Clem - Candidate for City of Gillette Ward 3 “I enjoy politics. While I particularly keep a close eye on Washington, I have been following our city’s dealings more carefully for awhile now. Elections matter. Policies matter. Politics matter. It affects us all— from the federal government all the way to our city government. I believe there is a time and season for everything, and I believe that now is the time that I run for a city position. But that is not all that Scott Clem enjoys. He has a very busy and dedicated life, with four things he holds as most valuable: His wife Chelsie, oldest daughter Faith (6yrs),
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Justice (3yrs) and his son Zane (6mo.) Outside of relationship with Jesus, they are his life. Scott and Chelsie are committed to invest in their children. Chelsie is a stay at home mom by choice. “We decided that it was the best decision we could make for our kids. It is hard living off the income we have, but we felt that raising our children ourselves was more important than money and things. It is good for our kids.” With a smile he then admitted that “She works much harder than I do.”
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Campbell County Observer • 2012 Election Guide/Paid Candidate Advertising
August 10 - 17, 2012
Scott Clem candidacy... Scott and Chelsie are also members of Central Baptist Church, where he is currently the chairman of the church’s pulpit committee as they seek a pastor. For 9 months, up until last March, Scott effectively served as their interim pastor. “My identity is found in Christ. I’m His servant, but more importantly, I became His child when I put my trust in Christ alone to save me from my sins. I have risked my eternity on the shed blood of Christ, nothing else.” One of the things that is most important to Scott is “keeping his eyes on Jesus” and sharing “the good news of salvation” to others. While he tries to practice good moral character, he says that if elected it will not be his job to be the moral police. “I don’t want to go to city council and dictate how folks should live their lives. I believe in freedom, individual liberty and personal responsibility. I don’t ever want the council to turn into a nanny state, as you can see in my answers to the Campbell County Observer’s political questions.” “But,” he adds, “Christians should get involved. “Of the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence, 24 held seminary or Bible school degrees. These were men of character. There is a culture war being waged today in schools, homes and in the public square. Christian cannot afford to remain quiet.” Born in North Dakota, Scott moved to Campbell County when he was 7 years old. “I grew up here, went to school here, and graduated as a salutatorian in 2002.” After graduation, Scott received a full ride academic scholarship to the University of Wyoming, but made some bad decisions after his second semester of college and didn’t return. Instead, he began working for Sharkey Well Service. After working in
the oil field for seven months, his life was permanently altered during a snow skiing accident in January 2004. He broke his back, bruised his spinal cord, and broke his right leg. After nearly four months at Craig Hospital in Denver, he started rebuilding his life. “I have some movement in my legs now, but not enough to walk on my own without assistance. I can’t feel much or move anything below my knees.” His life rebuilding began with an epiphany. “During that time in the hospital I started to really get down and feel sorry for myself. My pastor gave me a book, The Purpose Driven Life, and my perspective changed completely. It was at that point that I realized ‘Its not about you,
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its all about God!’” Once back in Gillette, Scott starting working for Safe and Healthy Schools while attending Gillette College, and later graduating with an associates degree. He currently works for the YES House as a case manager. He enjoys his job and life very much. “Though challenging at times, investing in those kids and families and seeing the difference it makes is very rewarding.” In his spare time he enjoys watching football, going fishing, listening to talk radio, and taking road trips. He’s a big Dave Ramsey fan and teaches Financial Peace for the Next Generation to the kids at the YES House. He also teaches a Sunday School class for 2nd and 3rd grade boys.
Joke of the week Submitted by Don Ismisthen Only in America......do we use the word ‘politics’ to describe the process so well: Poli’ in Latin meaning ‘many’ and ‘tics’ meaning ‘bloodsucking creatures’.
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But why is he running for office? “I’ve been given so much in my life. Being a citizen of the greatest country on earth is a blessing and honor. I want to give back to my country by serving and giving God the glory.” He continued, “A lot of people are concerned about what is happening in government at all levels. Many people like to complain or give their two cents worth, but they stop short of really doing something. I’m concerned, and decided to take action by putting my money where my mouth is. I’m a nothing and a nobody, but someone has to stand in the gap and say enough!” If Scott Clem is not afraid to drive with hand controls, he sure is not afraid to take on the responsibility of the city.
August 10 - 17, 2012
Campbell County Observer • 2012 Election Guide/Paid Candidate Advertising
Questions and Answers from County Commissioner Candidates What is your opinion of the City of Gillette’s constant annexations of county properties? – Question by Glenn Woods (Campbell County Observer Political Columnist and Radio Talk Show Host on 1270 KIML Gillette). Steve Hughes: In the past when subdivisions in the county need water or sewer and needed these services from the city, they were requirered to sign a pre-annexation agreement with the city. The city than had an agreement which allowed annexation at the city desire. With the Regional water asgreement a pre-annexation agreement is no longer necessary for water. Mark Christensen: As with everything, there are two sides to every story. It is in the nature of cities to grow. When annexed, city services are also made available – to many a major benefit. With regard to annexation, I believe that neighborhoods which do notwant to be annexed should not be annexed. There is an exception to this thought – neighborhoods or individuals who have signed pre-annexation agreements with the City of Gillette and then want to stop from being annexed later have no room to complain andshould allow annexation to go forward at the appropriate time. Neighborhoods, developers, and homeowners get certain benefits when a pre-annexation agreement is signed with the City ofGillette – usually city utilities. However, since these properties are outside of the city limits they do not pay city property taxes. The citizens of Gillette are paying to provide them a benefit and they are not paying their fair share. The preannexation agreement is them agreeing to take the services with the understanding they are going to someday be annexed into the City. Commitments of that type run with the property. It is not right for a property owner who purchases a property subject to a preannexation agreement to object either. They should be aware of the pre-annexationagreement when they purchase the property. Ignorance is no excuse for an
Currently, four of the five County Commissioners live in the City of Gillette. Many people in Wright, Sleepy Hollow, Rozet, and all the county ranchland do not feel equally represented. Do you believe that the County Commissioners positions should be re-districted? Why or Why not? -Question by Johnna Campbell: Wright, WY) Garry Becker: The Board of County Commissioners are elected by the entire county. Unlike Gillette, which is divided by wards, commissioners serve the entire county. If elected it is my duty to represent all of the citizens equally. HOWEVER, if it is important to some voters, I think I am the only candidate who lives in the county. Mark Christensen: The reality of the situation is that the majority of the people live in the City of Gillette. Assigning specific districts – opposed to electing Commissioners at-large – could help to ensure representation of these areas on the Commission. However, many of these areas have not put up candidates for election either. The Commissioners have a responsibility to every citizen in Campbell County – City of Gillette resident, Town of Wright resident, or ranch owner. Electing Commissioners atlarge provides thegreatest choice to all of the citizens. Otherwise, voters would be limited to voting only for candidates from their specific district and would not have any control over any of the other Commissioners selected. There are benefits to representation from districts. For our state offices, it is the only way to ensure representation of all of the citizenry. Within Campbell County, I feel there would be less benefit for using districts for County Commissioners. Generally, the people of Campbell County are one cohesive group of people – the contrast between a generic Campbell County citizen and a Teton County citizen on theother hand can be quite dramatic, hence, the need for representation from each of those districts. With regard to Commissioners in Camp-
exception to a contract. Those who have actually signed the agreementsand then object/politicize the annexation at a later date are even worse. They are willing to allow the City to provide them with services (or much needed improvements) knowing there is a trade-off later in time. Unfortunately, when it’s time to pay up (or in this case be annexed), they sometimes object – a little hypocritical in my opinion. Chris Knapp: The City of Gillette bases annexation on the services subdivisions require. When a subdivision can no longer sustain services such as sewer, the City can extend services out to the subdivision but requires the subdivision to annex. It is understood that the need for those services in which the City provides requires an incorporation of the tax base to pay for those services. Annexation should be uniform and should not leave “pockets” within the City that remain County. This should include other infrastructure as well; roads and parks should not be bypassed by an annexation. The City increases its tax base with every annexation and should take over the infrastructure included in that tax base. The City and County Road Memorandum of Understanding helps to spell this out for maintenance and repair of roads that may cross from City into County and back again. We should work together to ensure a clear understanding of the City Annexation plan for the next 10 years so that planning in both entities are prepared. Garry Becker: Cities, like most government entities, have a “need” to get larger. Annexation is the easiest and sometimes only way for this to happen. Some think that Gillette has had a heavyhanded way of doing this at times. A city cannot annex a community without the approval of a majority of the people to be annexed; however they frequently “give this away” by signing preannexation agreements so they can get something that the city can provide, usually water or sewer systems.
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bell County – if they aren’t representing your group well – vote them out. I feel I am particularly well suited for the Commission because of my background and experiences. I grew up on my family ranch south of Gillette and have also lived in the City of Gillette. I am familiar with the issues of both groups – the similarities and the differences – and feel I can fairly represent all Campbell County citizens. Chris Knapp: I believe we are accountable to every citizen in Campbell County. Our decisions are to benefit Campbell County and the services it provides for all citizens. The Commissioners have voted on funds to improve county roads, a Wright branch library, Wright fire station, a new recreation center in Wright, a community center in recluse, a fire station in rozet and other services which reflect the belief that we serve the County as a whole. If Commissioner positions were to be districted, that emphasis would actually be diminished. If a voter does not like one Commissioners views and he or she is not in their district, the elected cannot be held accountable by that voter. That would be fundamentally taking away the voters freedom and ability to choose. County Commissioners should be voted in county wide to be accountable to ALL county citizens. Citizens from every part of the county have a right to run for office. Commissioners have come from all walks of life, all parts of the county, and bring different backgrounds and experiences. We should select the best candidate for the job, districting takes four other votes away from citizens and would not allow them to hold ALL elected accountable. Steve Hughes: I believe the voters should decide this issue. ACtually 2 of the existing commissioners have ranches outside the city limits.
Continued on Page 9
Campbell County Observer • 2012 Election Guide/Paid Candidate Advertising
August 10 - 17, 2012
County Commissioner Candidates... Continued from Page 8 Throughout the U.S., property taxes have become a common tax everywhere. I see a problem with this, as when you pay off YOUR house and YOUR property from the bank, it can still get taken away from you for not paying taxes. I agree with paying for services such as fire, police, roads, and education; but not at the cost of my house. Our Bill of Rights is structured entirely based on the protection of personal property, whether it be MY speech, MY religion, MY quarters that soldiers want to stay in, MY property to be searched and so on. Is there another way we could raise the same money without having to risk every citizen in Campbell County’s property? Could Campbell County lead the way? And if you believe so, are you willing to propose a plan to the Campbell County Commissioners? –Question by Jack HarnellMark Christensen: The reality of the situation is that I don’t see any other good solutions. Compared to other states, I also think that our property taxes are quite low. I am not positive, but I believe that in order to lose your property, you have to not pay your taxes for three consecutive years. Hopefully, at some point during that gap, you are able to make up the payments. Another option, when you finish paying off your home, would be to set aside funds for the long-term payment of your property taxes. It could be figured in to your expenses and could be placed in some sort of escrow or simply a savings account. I am a big proponent of personal responsibility – and this places the responsibility on you. Compared to other options, I think that Wyoming’s combination of property taxes and sales taxes are very fair. The alternatives are much worse. Wyoming is a great place to live because you don’t have any state income tax and we also don’t penalize people with state estate (death) taxes. Many states and local governments are looking for revenues anywhere they can find them. We’re fortunate not to have to do that and I think our current system works well.
Chris Knapp: The County is an arm of the State. The State determines all taxation by statute so the Commissioners have no authority to change this structure. It is best to work through State Legislators to understand why this method is used and if there are any alternatives because they are the only authority of change. Garry Becker: To the best of my knowledge every state in the union has property taxes. Even though most of us don’t care for them it remains one of the “more fair’ methods of taxation to support our government functions. In Wyoming we certainly don’t want to get rid of property taxes because the energy industry pays for more than half of them. This means that the property tax on our homes is among the lowest in the country. In Campbell County the energy industry pays more than 2/3 of our taxes. Steve Hughes: Campbell County leads the way know by having one of the lowest property taxes in the nation. The majority of the funds the County and the State of Wyoming operates on is paid by the mineral industry.
do not want any restrictions beyond what we have now. I do not foresee any circumstances where I would restrict them except perhaps in bars, public schools and hospitals. Mark Christensen: I believe the County Commission has the right to create firearm restrictions within County buildings, but I also do not see any problems with state gun laws or any need to do so. The right to keep and bear arms is a fundamental right in the United States. I have more concerns about federal gun regulations and the restrictions they can place on the citizens of Wyoming, than those that could possibly be imposed by the County Commission.
As I often note – this is another situation for personal accountability. Citizens have the responsibility to use guns responsibly and appropriately. My family does enjoy shooting and collects a number of guns. My wife is an NRA instructor as well. Responsible use of guns provides for hunting, competition, personal protection, and other beneficial impacts. Steve Hughes: I believe the commissioners job is to protect the health and safety of the County citizens. I do not believe firearms shoiuld be taken into any public building except by the Sheriff, his deputies, chief of police and his deputies.
Joke of the week Submitted by John Reynolds A seedy-looking man was sitting in the first row at a town meeting, heckling the council as he delivered a lengthy speech. Finally the mayor pointed to the heckler and said, “Will that gentleman who differs with me please stand up and tell the audience what he has ever done for the good of the city?” “Well, Mr. Mayor,” the man said in a firm voice. “I voted against you in the last election.”
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Do you believe that the County has the right to create further firearm restrictions above and beyond the State (i.e. a gun ban at the County Hospital)? Why or Why not? – Question by Wayne Elliot: Political Director of the Wyoming Gunowners AssociationChris Knapp: I believe the Wyoming State Legislature should be the only authority to create firearm restrictions through Wyoming State Statutes. Garry Becker: I am not familiar with Wyoming statues that pertain to local control of firearms but I think that counties do have the right to restrict them in some circumstances. I have many firearms and
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August 10 - 17, 2012
Campbell County Observer • 2012 Election Guide/Paid Candidate Advertising
Questions and Answers from U.S. Senator/Representative Candidates How do you plan on reducing regulatory burdens on Domestic Energy – Question by Glenn Woods (Campbell County Observer Political Columnist and Radio Talk Show Host on 1270 KIML Gillette). Joel Otto: Regulatory burdens on domestic energy production and consumption come from agencies such as the DOE and the EPA, as well as direct political action. The executive branch recently blocked the Keystone XL pipeline construction. Electric utility administration also plays a role. Proposals for cap and trade or a carbon tax are under consideration. I support a level playing field for energy industries, with no subsidies, penalties, or industry specific regulations. The federal government should not be involved in energy production in any capacity. Fuel standards, methods of production, and all parts of domestic energy use and production should be left to producers and consumers, subject only to environmental protection for neighboring properties. In case of environmental damage, or airborne or water born pollutants, property owners are entitled to mitigation or compensation for any demonstrable harm from trespass. I support strong environmental protection law for pollution onto private property. If elected, I will work to end federal action directing energy policy in favor of local solutions and strong private property rights. It is not necessary for a distant central government to set standards for energy production or use, or to exempt producers of pollution from harm caused locally. Thomas Blemming: Currently there are set limits on the oil producing wells throughout the United States. These have been on the books for many decades. These regulations can only be (I believe) changed by the Dept. of Interior and not by the US Senate.
Do you support the use of drones on United States citizens for surveillance? Why or why not? – Question by Jake Keller Thomas Blemming: I do NOT support the use of drones on US citizens. My opponent has voted to re authorize the so-called PATRIOT Act and has voted for NDAA, which strips US citizens of their constitutional guarantees under the Bill of Rights. He’s proud to have voted to strip Americans of their legal protection. We don’t need to have our rights as Americans taken from us. We need our constitutional republic to be restored. Joel Otto: Surveillance drones are part of the larger problem of general loss of privacy from fixed cameras, communications monitoring, and satellite imagery. While our governments are increasing their spying on us, they often forbid citizens from monitoring them. Police routinely forbid recording their actions, and confiscate recording devices. Government agencies often refuse to provide files and information regarding their activities. If they don’t think we should be monitoring them, why should we let them monitor us? Drones and other UAV technology can’t be stopped. That cat is out of the bag. But their use can be restricted to dire emergencies, rather than routine spying. The Fourth Amendment to the US Constitution guarantees people the right “…to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects…” Routine surveillance violates this right, whether it is drones, cameras, bugs, communications monitoring, or satellites. Besides the constitutional and privacy issues of drone use, there are technical issues. Drones can give bad information that can cost lives. They can crash and hurt people. Some drones don’t just shoot pictures either. I would seek to stop extensive government use of surveillance technology, not just drones. All government surveillance needs to be restrained by a simple reading of the Fourth Amendment regarding
search warrants: “…no warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.” If there is an internet sales tax introduced, how will you vote and why? – Question by Candice Jalowen Joel Otto: Senator Enzi of Wyoming and other Republicans are joining with Democrats to implement a new sales tax system which would affect Wyoming residents who purchase goods from out of state suppliers. It is estimated this tax would cost Wyoming
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residents $23-46 million per year. It is being promoted as a means to help get more money for state governments facing budget shortfalls. Rather than pushing for new taxes, I would recommend spending cuts. Taxation by state governments across state borders is blocked by the US Constitution. Tax supporters call this constitutional protection a loophole in the tax code. It is said this new tax would be more fair for local businesses, who have to compete with no-sales-tax mail order suppliers. This is a two way street. If a new tax helps local businesses with local sales, it hurts local businesses with out-of-state sales. As the state with the smallest population, Wyoming can be a haven for mail order retailers who locate here. Any sale made out
Continued on Page 11
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Campbell County Observer • 2012 Election Guide/Paid Candidate Advertising
August 10 - 17, 2012
City Council Candidates... Continued from Page 10
of state is tax free to the buyer. Under Enzi’s proposal, this advantage disappears. As I have pointed out before, sales taxes are regressive. The less money you have, the greater the percentage of your income they take. Is an economic downturn really the time to be raising taxes on the poor? I don’t think so. I am offended that this law is under consideration. I would work to stop any new taxing authority, particularly this one. The budget shortfalls faced by state governments are caused by over-spending, not a lack of taxes. Thomas Blemming: Internet sales taxes are levied by the individual states and it is a matter which individual states are responsible for, not the federal government. Much of your position involves international affairs. Describe your experience in this category, and name one current situation you believe that you could help American relations with. – Question by Dale Jennings Joel Otto: My experience in international affairs involves doing my best to stay informed of world news, as well as past trips to Europe, India, Nepal, Africa, the MIddle East, the Caribbean, Canada, and Central America. I attended a domestic university where about half the students were foreign nationals from all over the world. I am fascinated with world affairs and comfortable with people of other cultures. The US Senate devotes much time to the affairs of other nations, but it doesn’t have to be that way. The American people would be better served if less money and military force were directed overseas. In the words of Thomas Jefferson: “Peace, commerce, and honest friendship with all nations — entangling alliances with none.” The current situation that calls most
strongly for the improvement of American relations is the military action in Afghanistan and Pakistan. This action should be ended and our valuable service men and women brought home. The people of Afghanistan are not a threat to the United States. U.S. military presence there is costing the blood of American and Afghan families. Thomas Blemming: I’d support re establishing full diplomatic relations with Cuba. The Cold War is over with and the 50 year old trade and tourist embargo against Cuba should be lifted. Our two countries can learn a lot from having a free exchange of travel, trade and tourism. Castro’s Cuba has withstood mercenary attacks, an invasion (Bay of Pigs), which turned into an embarrassing defeat for the United States and a half century of economic embargo. We have been the losers.Cuba needs many things that the United States has and which we produce. Our biggest export is food and Wyoming’s beef industry would well benefit, seeing as Cuba’s 12 million people need food and what other way, to boost our farms and ranches, but to sell our produce and beef to Cuba. Communist Cuba’s state run dairy industry is in shambles, production of high quality beef is very much lacking. Wyoming’s beef industry would certainly benefit from the lifting of the current trade embargo. The Castro brothers won’t be around forever and now is the time to reestablish friendly relations with Cuba and as I’ve stated, only by allowing a free exchange of ideas and culture can we put the past behind us, as we have successfully done with Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, China, Russia, etc. ** Editor’s Note ““ Senator Barrasso was unable to respond to the questions by press time due to prior commitments. Senator Barrasso’s answers will appear in next week’s election guide.
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August 10 - 17, 2012
Campbell County Observer • 2012 Election Guide/Paid Candidate Advertising
Douglas Gerard -
Candidate for Wyoming House of Representatives District 3
Born in Detroit, Doug grew up in Rochester, NY. He went on to college at Rennselaer Polytechnic Institute, eventually earning a degree in computer science Upon graduating he spent six rough months at Raytheon, a military contractor, where he was literally paid to nothing. Doug noted, “There was a solid introduction to the waste that can be found in government.” He then joined Gold Hill Computers, after a year there the company was in dire fiscal straights and he and a team of seven others purchased the company. “We shed over three million in debt and grew the company to 15 employees. As VP of Development I led the team that built tools used to build a variety of programs.”, Doug continued, “The most interesting was for Ashland Oil. It scheduled oil pipeline deliveries from the Gulf to the refineries in Tennessee.” Afterwards, Doug moved to several other startups before returning to Rochester to start his own company dedicated to the motorsports industry. While in Rochester Doug met his soon to be bride, Daniela. The couple married and soon moved to Pittsburgh for Daniela to complete her residency in emergency medicine. With that completed they moved North Carolina to be in NASCAR country for his business. After a few short years, they recognized North Carolina wasn’t for them and decided to move west. Doug remarked, “Being the practical conservative that I am, I said ‘Let’s move to Wyoming!
They don’t have an income tax!’” The Gerard’s decided to make Gillette home. “It’s funny; I grew up 60 miles east of Buffalo right off of I-90 in Rochester NY, and God willing, I’ll die 60 miles east of Buffalo right off of I-90 right here in Gillette!” He continued, “We’re blessed to live here. I love the pioneer spirit. Everyone works hard, yet if a neighbor needs a hand, you help them out. That’s who I am and that’s Wyoming.” Doug is very active in the community. As President of Gillette Rotary, on the board of the Boys and Girls Club, a Knight of Columbus, and as a commissioner on the Campbell County Planning Commission he has been working to help the community. But why is Doug running for office? “I love this place. This is home. Our district encompasses most of the coal mines, oil and gas fields and is home to many sheep and cattle ranches. It’s the source of our state’s great wealth. I want our part of Wyoming to continue to be a thriving community.” Doug’s endorsements reflect his conservative views. His dedication to fundamental rights is recognized by the endorsement of the National Rifle Association with the highest ‘AQ’ rating and the endorsement of the family values group WyWatch. His fiscal responsibility is recognized by the endorsement from the Campbell County Board of Realtors. Doug believes that he is the conservative voice District 3 needs. “I have always been a conservative, and we need a strong conservative voice in Cheyenne.”
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Campbell County Observer • 2012 Election Guide/Paid Candidate Advertising
August 10 - 17, 2012
Merle McClure- Candidate for State House of Representatives District 52 Hard work is what Mr. McClure, a fourth generation rancher in Campbell County, knows. He worked with his Father on the ranch and in the oilfield until he was eighteen, he then got a job for the next three years working for T.H. Russell, a gas plant and refinery construction company. When Merle was twenty one, he moved back home and started a Contract Pumping business, which he has operated since the fall of 1979. Later he added a Consulting business as well. In the early 1990’s, Mr. McClure leased his family ranch from his parents Dean and Beryl McClure for three years before buying it. Other generational names from the McClure family are his great grandfather, Grant, and his grandfather, Earl who settled the McClure ranch. Merle is married to the lovely Vicki, marrying her the same year he started his business. They recently celebrated their 32nd wedding anniversary in 2011, and have had a great marriage raising 3 children and 6 grandchildren. Merle is a family man, spending most of his time (when he isn’t working) with his children and grandchildren. “We take them on a vacation every 3 to 5 years. We went to Disney World once, and last year we went to Las Vegas, which has become very kid friendly with water parks and other activities.” Puzzling as it may sound, it has. “I bet the arcade at Circus Circus makes more money than the casino!” said Vicki. Besides vacations, Merle incorporates his hobbies in with his grandchildren, one example being fishing. “They always
catch a fish; I work with them, set everything up. They do most of the fishing.” Merle also hunts every fall, and always on his own ranch property for mule deer. “We have an Elk herd that moves through every six weeks or so, but you very seldom ever see them. They just tear up the fence.” Mr. McClure also enjoys a special kind of deep fishing at Lake DeSmet, on down riggers going for some of the larger fish. He owns a tracker house boat for this purpose, and can tell you about the lake trout that the State doesn’t claim to be in there. Why is Merle McClure running for office? “I believe that I am the most conservative person for the job, the most conservative person of all the candidates. I don’t think you can get more conservative than I am.” His wife, Vicki, agrees. “Merle puts forth the conservative values our State needs, and I support that. Wyoming needs him.” With this being the second time that Mr. McClure has ran in the Republican Primaries (last time in 2010) he believes he has a greater chance to win. In the last primaries, Mr. McClure received over 40% of the vote. His issues include lowering taxes, and stopping government waste. “I am also prolife, which my opponent is not. I don’t agree with her on her social issues. I am also a proponent of a very conservative household, and I strongly believe that marriage is only between a man and a woman. I will fight for that when I get elected.” Merle McClure currently
spends what free time he has keeping up with current events watching Fox News and enjoying the History or Military Channel. If elected I will work very hard to find State Government waste and, where possible, to downsize State Government. He supports: The Wyoming Republican Platform, Federal Constitution and the Bill of Rights, Second Amendment Rights, NO State Income Tax and Keeping All Taxes Low, Smaller, Less Intrusive Government, The Legislature Remembering that it’s the Tax Payers
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Money and Not Theirs, State Government needing to be very Frugal with the Tax Payers’ Money, The Strong Traditional Family Lifestyle and is Pro-Life, Ranching, energy, and all other business and does not believe in increasing the Ad Valorem, severance Taxes, or any other taxes over current levels, and lowering taxes when possible Opting-out and Repealing the current health care reform law, and encouraging competition by opening up to buying policies across State lines and lowering cost with Tort Reform
August 10 - 17, 2012
Joke of the week Submitted by Jake Keller Late one night in the capitol city a mugger wearing a ski mask jumped into the path of a well-dressed man and stuck a gun in his ribs. “Give me your money!” he demanded. Indignant, the affluent man replied, “You can’t do this - I’m a U.S. Congressman!” “In that case,” replied the robber, “give me MY money!”
Trivia Question Did President John Adams and Major General Alexander Hamilton ever Duel? Find the answer on Page 15
Campbell County Observer • 2012 Election Guide/Paid Candidate Advertising
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Campbell County Observer • 2012 Election Guide/Paid Candidate Advertising
August 10 - 17, 2012
John Wayne running for City of Gillette Ward 3 John Wayne is one of 4 candidates running for the City Council of Gillette, Ward 3. John was born in Tucson, AZ and grew up with 3 siblings. His father was involved in the construction business and that took his family to the southern states for many years. He and his family have lived in Wyoming for 15 years, 10 in Casper, and 5 here in Gillette. John is a husband and a father of 3. His wife, Konnie, who he has been married to for almost 22 years, is a Special Education Teacher at Prairie Wind Elementary School. Their oldest son, John, is a Natrona County High School graduate and currently resides in Casper, WY. Their daughter, Dakota, is a senior this year at Campbell County High School and is involved with Cheerleading. Their youngest son, Austin, is entering Sage Valley Junior High this year and enjoys football. His family is very supportive of him and his deci-
sion to run for office. He joined the Army in 1990 and served 2 tours in Bosnia, and 1 during Desert Storm before returning stateside to be a Recruiter for the Army. After leaving the Army, he joined the Navy CB Reservists for 4 years. To finish out his military career, John joined the Wyoming Army National Guard where he was deployed in 2009-2010 to Kuwait and Iraq before retiring. John has been an employee of Wyoming Machinery since 2005 and was transferred here to Gillette, in 2007. He is a member of the local Veterans of Foreign Wars and is currently the Exalted Ruler of the Gillette Elks Lodge #2825. When he is not supporting his lodge, he states his hobbies are cooking, hunting and fishing with his family. He is a strong believer in the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
Trivia Answer
Did President John Adams and Major General Alexander Hamilton ever Duel?
Yes. Hamilton had been a principal in 10 shot-less duels prior to his fatal encounter with Burr, including duels with William Gordon (1779), Aedanus Burke (1790), John Francis Mercer (1792-1793), James Nicholson (1795), James Monroe (1797), John Adams (1800), and Ebenezer Purdy/George Clinton (1804). He also served as a second to John Laurens in a 1779 duel with General Charles Lee and legal client John Auldjo in a 1787 duel with William Pierce. In addition, Hamilton claimed to have had one previous honor dispute with Burr; Burr claimed there were two.
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August 10 - 17, 2012
Campbell County Observer • 2012 Election Guide/Paid Candidate Advertising
Online Voting Polls Polls are not scientific. Based on number of votes who voted on the Observer website. To vote, go to www.CampbellCountyObserver.net U.S. Senate Republican Primaries
Senator John Barrasso Thomas Blemming None of the above
84.6% 14.0% 1.4%
U.S. Senate Democrat Primaries
William Bryl Tim Chesnut Al Hamburg None of the above
8.9% 11.4% 9.2% 70.5%
State House of Representatives District 52 Merle McClure Sue Wallis John Robertson None of the above
31.7% 41.4% 25.5% 1.4%
State House of Representatives District 03 Eric Barlow 44.6% Douglas Gerard 46.2% None of the above 9.2%
Campbell County Commissioners
Garry Becker Chris Knapp Mark Christensen Steve Hughes Robin Kuntz None of the above
19.8% 21.9% 20.3% 19.6% 11.4% 7.0%
City Council of Gillette Ward 1 Kevin McGrath 44.5% Don Elder 46.3% None of the above 9.2%
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City Council of Gillette Ward 2 Don Hart Bill Mntgomery Forest Rothleutner None of the Above
37.8% 27.9 % 26.6% 2.7%
City of Gillette Ward 3 Ted Jerrad Scott Clem John Wayne Robert Kothe
23.9% 30.2% 31.8% 11.4%