Meet the Candidates - August 2010

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A Little Bit of Who I Am My name is Darlene Wheeler and I am a candidate for the office of Tipton County Clerk.

It has been a great honor serving the citizens of Tipton County for more than 20 years. Pam Deen appointed me to the position of Chief Deputy Clerk in 1994. I believe this position has given me the experience and knowledge needed to fulfill this office. Thank you for the confidence you have placed in me and for the opportunity to become your next county clerk. I respectfully ask for your vote in the upcoming election on August 5th.

Please elect Darlene Wheeler County Clerk.

Paid for by the Committee to Elect Darlene Wheeler County Clerk, Tim Wheeler Treasurer

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DAVID BITZER District 7 Please give us your background information: I have lived in Tipton County on and off for the last 27 years.

I am married with one son (Branson). My wife, Diane, and I are both retired from the United States Navy. I am currently employed as a Senior Regional Maintenance Manager with the AutoZone Corporation.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I served 24 years in the United States Navy in various combat, peace keeping, and police/security roles. I have also served as a Tipton County Deputy Sheriff Reserve Officer (4 years). I was the Academy President for my year group and class. I graduated the Academy with the Honors “Top Gun” award for marksmanship as well as the highest personal physical readiness score. I have a Bachelors Degree in Business Management.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes. I am willing to contribute to law enforcement

JEFF EALY District 3 Please give us your background information: In 2003, my wife of 10 years, Lisa, and I were looking for a home to purchase and raise our children. We found that home in Tipton County which offered us the perfect location, excellent schools, and a community that is “Textbook” Southern Living. My law enforcement career includes working for the Covington Police Department for three years. During that time I had the opportunity to work with other Law Enforcement

BRIAN MAX District 1 Please give us your background information: I am 44 years old. I was born and raised in Covington/ Tipton County. I have Very strong family values, with a wife and three kids. I help throughout the community with coaching various sports with kids of all age groups.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I have a strong belief in the law and its principle. I am also very familiar with the community, and its need. I would be very thankful to have the opportunity to extend any help to law enforcement, any 911

Constables

and the community, in any way, to keep it safe. Future plans are to “be available” to use my knowledge, skills and ability to keep the people in District 7 educated in crime prevention and awareness. And to aid and assist all local law enforcement agencies, and to continue keep Tipton County a safe place to live and raise a family.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: This position is a non-paid position. I will absorb all expenses to fulfill the duties and responsibilities of this office. I will provide a valuable service at no cost to the government and or Tipton County residences.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: I recommend making all your purchases in Tipton County when possible. Visiting local vendors and shops will help to insure Tipton County remains economically sound today and in the future.

Tell us why people should vote for you: Your vote is important to me because I have served my country for 24 years in the United States Navy. Now I would like to serve my community where I chose to live and raise a family. Please help me assist you in this common goal. agencies in the county.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I am a State of Tennessee POST Certified Law Enforcement Officer since 1998, with 604 hours of basic law enforcement training. I am a law enforcement general department instructor with the ability to certify other officers in emergency vehicle operation, X26 TASER, standard field sobriety test and police mountain bike.

Tell us why people should vote for you: As constable, I will bring experience in law enforcement that will benefit the citizens of District 3. With over 14,000 hours of patrol in a marked police vehicle, over 500 arrests and through knowledge of the laws of Tennessee, I will bring extra security the citizens of District 3. agency, and local citizens in the community.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes. I am willing to contribute to law enforcement and the community, in any way, to keep it safe.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: This is a non-paying position.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: By the community coming together as a whole, and striving to do our best.

Please tell us why people should vote SEE MAX, PAGE C4

MICHAEL J. OSBORN District 4 Please give us your background information: Michael J. Osborn spent 11 years in the U.S. Navy as an officer and F/A-18 Hornet fighter pilot. In 1997, Michael became a certified police officer with the Orange County, Calif. Sheriff’s Office and actively patrolled as a reserve deputy during his spare time. Michael worked with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office as a deputy until his eventual move to Tennessee in 2000.

After his successful military career, Michael was hired by Northwest Airlines as a pilot and was assigned to fly out of Memphis.

Michael’s desire to help the community continued after his move to Tennessee so he applied and was accepted into the Tipton County Sheriff’s Office reserve program as a deputy. He actively worked as a deputy in Tipton County from 2000 until 2006. Michael was active with the sheriff’s office, achieving positions with patrol, SWAT team and the Drug Task Force. In 2006, Michael successfully ran and was elected to the office of Constable District 4, Tipton County, where he currently serves.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: POST certified peace officer 1997; Deputy Sheriff Orange County, Calif.

(1997 - 2000); Deputy Sheriff, Tipton County (2000 - 2006); S.W.A.T. certified, Tennessee; Drug Task Force, Tipton County; Tennessee Constable (2006 – present); President, Tipton County Constable’s Association; Tennessee Constable of the year 2006; West Tennessee Constable of the year 2006; Tennessee Constable’s Association Board of Directors.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: Tipton County has nine districts and thus nine Constables positions. The constables who work provide a valuable service to the com-

munity by actively patrolling and providing law enforcement help to the county and state.

The Tipton County Constable’s Association was developed to help Constables understand our position within the community and to coordinate our duties with the other law enforcement agencies in the county. One of my objectives is to expand the association in order to better serve the people of Tipton County. I was also recently voted to the board of directors of the State Constable’s Association where I plan on helping improve the image of Constables throughout the state by standardizing and updating the training requirements for Constables.

Please tell us how you plan on increasing county revenue and hold down expenses: Constables do not receive a salary from the State or County, nor are they provided equipment, vehicles, or even gas for their cars. Constables are the only true public servants in that they actually pay their own way and do not take from the over taxed communities they serve. Constables actually increase the county’s revenues when they make arrests and issue citations by the fines assessed to the defendant by the court.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: Reduce taxes, reduce taxes, reduce taxes. Let the great people of Tipton County spend their own money on what they want. The government cannot keep spending money they don’t have thinking that all they need to do is raise taxes. We live within our means, so should the county, state, and federal government. Enough is enough.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in this election: I am asking for your vote because I believe that all of us must give back to the communities where we live. We cannot survive with an attitude of, “what’s in it for me,” or “I’m entitled”. I have always believed in giving back to the great people of the United States and it was the reason why I served in the U.S. Navy for 11 years.

Being a Constable is very rewarding.

4 • Thursday, July 15, 2010 • MEET THE CANDIDATES 2010

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Constables RONNIE STARNES

District 3 Please give us your background information.

I am a native of Tipton County.

I graduated from Munford High School, Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary with an Associate of Divinity Degree, and with honors from Union University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Organizational Leadership. I am married to Patricia my wife of 24 years, we have two daughters, Courtney, who is in her second year of nursing school at the University of Memphis, and Ashley, who graduated from Brighton High School this year and is in basic training for the Army Reserves at Fort Leonard Wood Missouri. I am a member of Beaver Baptist Church. I am a licensed Baptist

Minister and currently serve as a volunteer Chaplain for Baptist Hospital-Tipton. I am also actively involved in the Tipton County Tea Party.

Tell us why people should vote for you.

I am a big believer in the 2nd Amendment.

I also believe that we need more trained citizens carrying concealed firearms. Training is very important for someone who wants to carry a gun because of the responsibility.

That is why I have personally taken extra training courses above what is required by the state and I will continue to train.

I met with Sheriff Pancho and shared with him my willingness to work with him if I am elected Constable by the voters of District 3 and he was very supportive. I understand if elected that my primary responsibility is to serve my constituents’ of our District. I would like to take this opportunity to ask the voters of District 3 for their vote and support and to thank them for their consideration.

Editor’s Note: Barry L. Thompson, Tommy Black, Scott Bourland, Nick McDivitt and Kyle Smith, candidates for this position in varying districts, did not respond to our requests for information and have not been included in this section.

WILL C. PHILLIPS

District 8 Please give us your background information: Will Phillips was born in Bradenton, Fla. on Feb. 13, 1968 and, after 22 years of service in military law enforcement, retired from the Navy in 2008.

I am married to Laura Lynn QuinleyPhillips of Munford and have four children: Britteney Nicole Phillips-Goodman (21), Clayton Lee (19), Ty Austin (10) and Dylan Andrew (3).

I am currently employed by the Department of Veteran Affairs as a police officer at the VA Medical Center in Memphis.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: His certifications include United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training (Police Officer I Government Service) 4,000 hrs.; Certification in Homeland Security Level - IV (CHS – IV). His certification/training: Coastline Community College Associate of Science Degree in Criminal

MAX

Continued from page C3 for you in this election.

I am familiar with law

Justice. U.S. Navy Master-At-Arms (Navy Police) Class A, 284hrs. Detector Dog Handler (Drugs and Explosives), 200hrs; Patrol Dog Handler (Attack), 240hrs. Department of Veterans Affairs Police Academy, 200hrs.

Department of Homeland Security, FEMA, Emergency Management Institute courses: Emergency Manager, An Orientation to the Position, Emergency Response to Terrorism, Introduction to the Incident Command System, Introduction to the Incident Command System for Law Enforcement, Introduction to the Incident Command System for Healthcare/ Hospitals, Incident Command System for Single Resources and Initial Action Incidents, Principles of Emergency Management, Leadership and Influence, Decision Making and Problem Solving, National Incident Management System (NIMS), Intermediate Incident Command System for Expanding Incidents, National Response Framework, An Introduction, Access Control and Physical Security course. U.S. Department of Justice

enforcement, as well as the community and am willing to do anything I can to protect and serve our community. My ambition is to make

SEE PHILLIPS, PAGE C5

our community safe for our children and fellow citizens to grow and live safely. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

ELECT

JEFF MASON Commissioner District 3 Your Vote and Support Appreciated.

Paid for by the committee to elect Jeff Mason.

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Constables

BOB PIKE

District 6 Please give us your background information.

Pike attended Humes High School and has been in law enforcement for 30 years, 23 as constable. He and his wife Virginia have two sons, Robert Jr. and Jerry Pike. They also have four grandchildren.

BERT COMBS

District 3 Please give us your background information: My name is Bert Combs and I have lived in District 3 since 1988.

I own and operate Pro Line Paint Systems Inc. in Covington. My wife of 22 years is Leigh Ann Combs. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Blakely of Covington. We are both members of Trinity

PHILLIPS

Continued from page C4 (FBI) Terrorism Training, 16hrs. AntiTerrorism Officer/Instructor, 40hrs.; Armed Sentry Duties, 40hrs. Customs Border Clearance Agent Afloat, 40hrs. Shipboard Security Engagement Tactics, 80hrs. Physical Security and Law Enforcement Supervisor, 40hrs Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: I don’t plan on making any changes to this office.

I will be very active within the community and be very visable at as many community events that I can. I plan on being a proactive Law Enforcement Officer rather than reactive officer.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: Constables operate as individual officers at no cost to the citizens or governments of the county.

Constables provide their own uniforms, vehicles, fuel and equipment, and stand ready to aid or assist all citizens and/or agencies within the county. Their mission is to provide additional law enforcement presence in the county and to assist and supplement

Please give us your qualifications for this office.

Pike attended the Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy, the firearms instructor school at the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office and does 40 hours of inservice training annually at the Northwest Tennessee Criminal Investigators Assoc. He is retired from United Road Machinery Co., where he worked for 30 years. He served as chief deputy for the sheriff’s department for seven years. He is also a 32nd Mason and a member of the Tennessee Sheriff’s and Peace Officers Association.

Baptist Church. I graduated from Trinity Baptist Christian Academy in 1984. My mother and father are Mr. Bert Larry Combs Sr. and the late Mrs. Jeanne Hadley Combs.

I’m proud to say that my wife and I both were raised in a good Christian home and were taught to be responsible and respectful to everyone.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I acquired my Tennessee carry permit in 2002. I also received my credentials as a Certified Shotgun Instructor through the National Rifle SEE COMBS, PAGE C6

the county Sheriff’s Office and the Police Departments. Constables are also at the disposal of the various fire departments, EMS units and rescue squads in the county as well as any state or federal agency which might have use of their services.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: The people can rebound when they don’t have to worry about spending their money on additional insurance to protect their personal belongings due to people breaking into their homes and cars. By being a proactive officer, the criminals will know that the people in Tipton county are hard targets, not soft targets Please tell us why people should vote for you in the election: The people should vote for me because I will be there for them. I am very committed to law enforcement and strongly believe in community policing. I am very active within the community as a Dixie Youth Baseball Coach and Umpire. I believe we all should feel safe enough to go out for a family walk around our own blocks without the fear of criminals. I am open minded and don’t mind change as long it is for the better.

I believe in working smarter, not harder.

Persons who have moved or are unsure about their polling location or precinct may visit the Tipton County Election Commission at 113 Church Street in Covington for assistance.

On election day, polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, please call the election commission at 901-476-0223.

RAY CHAUDOIN

District 7 Please give us your background information.

I went to high school in Longwood, Fla. I spent three years, nine months in USN, veteran of foreign war with Special Forces training, Damneck Va., 30 years with City of Memphis Fire Department with 12 of those years in fire prevention and arson division. University of Memphis personal management, arson investigations, nuclear science and other studies of fire science. Five years with Tipton County Sheriff’s office with special training in courtroom security, multijurisdictional counterdrug task force, clandestine laboratory investigation, criminal street gangs basic, expandable baton (ASP) conducted by T.C.S.O, In taximeter EC-IR operation. License and ordained Baptist minister. Married to my wonderful wife, Dorothy Jane Wentherall Chaudoin, three sons Scott, Jeff and Alan.

Retired but not to my service to my Lord, Jesus Christ. I am also a Republican.

Please give us your qualifications for

this office.

See answer to Question 1.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes.

Plans for this office is one four-year term.

Change for this office is to help create a recognized law enforcement branch for the protection of all who live in and pass through Tipton County.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses.

This question is for the governing body of the country.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion.

Cut unnecessary spending, cut taxes, reduce high salaries, raise low-income salaries. Create a more affordable community and business relationship whereby more money would stay in Tipton County.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in the election.

My wife and I have made Tipton County our home for the past 20 years and our plan is to remain in our home for the remainder of our life. I can devote more time to our county and make it a safer and better place to live.

Vote in the Republican Primary for Jim Hardin Tennessee State Representative, District 81 * Stop Federal Encroachments on Tennessee Rights (healthcare, farming, etc.) * Jobs-Jobs-Jobs: Buy Tennessee Campaign, Stop Job-Killing Taxes & Regulations * Put the Light Where the Sun Don’t Shine – Ethics & Lobby Reform * Education Reform Means Restoring the Culture of Family & Parental Responsibility * Lean State Government and use Savings to Reduce 9 % Sales Tax Phone: 901-491-6911 Email: electjimhardin@gmail.com www.electjimhardin.com (follow me on Facebook & Twitter) Psalms 1

An honorable reputation is more valuable than money or power

6 • Thursday, July 15, 2010 • MEET THE CANDIDATES 2010

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County Clerk CASEY FLETCHER Please give us your background information: My name is Casey Fletcher. My mother was Janie Boswell Fletcher and my father is Dee Fletcher. My two sister are Cari Dee Fletcher Dawson and Katie Fletcher Patterson. I am married to Amanda Randolph Fletcher. I have been married for almost 12 years and have two daughters, Mallorie and Alex.

Both of my girls attend public school. I grew up in Gilt Edge, attended Drummonds Elementary, and graduated from Munford High School.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I have been in retail automotive business for over 20 years. I am very familiar with vehicle titles and tag work. I am very familiar with state laws governing vehicle registration, business license, business tax and marriage license. I am a problem solver and able to communicate with people in a way they can understand.

I am down-to-earth and consider myself a people person. Everywhere I have worked, I have always been a leader. People came to me for problems that needed to be dealt with and I feel I could always see all sides. I feel I always made a logical decision.

Plans for the future of this office and any changes: In all fairness to the county, I need ample time to assess the function of clerk’s office. I don’t believe in fixing something that isn’t broken. I think this county is still growing and we need to make sure we have a plan to meet the needs that arise with growth. I don’t want to spend any more of the taxpayer’s money than absolutely necessary. I would look at the budget and see if it is feasible to open the clerk’s office on the south end more days, or open our main office on Saturday until noon.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: We need to stress to our citizens they should spend their tax dollars at home. Not just the big ticket items like cars and trucks, but those small ticket items are just as important. I am a firm believer that if you spend your money in the county, it is more likely to stay in the county. As far as expenses, I have always been a conservative but it is important to evaluate every expense. I can assure you that much thought will be given to any of your tax dollars that has to be spent.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: Again, we should stress to our citizens to spend money within the county. We need to use all of our local businesses, workers, contractors, or anyone that can provide services for us. We need to elect officials who will keep expenses down and increase county revenue. We should work with the Chamber of Commerce to help get factories and other businesses back in our county so that we can create more jobs. Instead of telling local government what they’re doing wrong, we should get involved and make a difference.

I am beginning my involvement by running for this office so that I may serve the public and do all I can to make a difference to better our county.

Tell us why people should vote for you: I am likeable, friendly and hard working. I know a lot of people in the county and want to get to know all of you. I feel that the office needs a change and there needs to be new faces in these positions. I know I can do a good job and want to make sure you all feel welcomed and served well when you come in. No problem will be too big or too small.

I want you to leave the office happy and satisfied. After all, it is your vote that will put me in there.

Can I get your vote?

MARY GAITHER Please give us your background information: I am Mary Gaither and I have been a resident of Tipton County for nearly 30 years. I graduated from Trezevant High School in 1982 and Covington Vo-Tech in the Office/Business program in 1984.

I have continued my education through the University of Tennessee in the County Officials program. My parents are Glen and Charlotte Counts. I am married to R. Louis Gaither and have one daughter, Jennifer, married to Greg Ford. They have two daughters, Ann Charlotte and Evelyn Grace.

I am a Christian and attend Beaver Baptist Church and have been active in many local civic organizations, as well as school and sports related activities. I am also involved in various charities including the March of Dimes, funding for St. Jude, organ donor awareness and Relay for Life.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I have 22 years of county government experience with 17 being in the county clerk’s office. I began my career as a deputy clerk under Ms. Clara McMillin. Upon Ms. Pam Deen’s election as county clerk in 1994, she appointed me as her administrative assistant. She has entrusted me with the exclusive responsibilities and duties pertaining to the management of the Tipton County Clerk’s office including preparation and management of the county clerk’s budget, being instrumental in major improvements resulting in significant upgrades to customer service, managing the integration of the computer systems into operations, including pay by credit card and online renewals, full capabilities of the most detailed knowledge in all aspects of office, a proven history of excellent customer service, and more than

a 16 year record of exemplary management and administrative duties.

Plans for the future of this office and any changes: I will promote the services provided at our satellite office in Munford. I am committed to provide the highest quality of customer service and continue to strive towards creating methods to better serve all the citizens of Tipton County.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: I have been and will continue to be involved in the opportunities to increase revenues for Tipton County and to hold down expenses. These are a few contracts with the State of Tennessee that have been implemented under various programs: Revenues - Currently reimbursed approximately 3,000.00 per month from the State of Tennessee to Tipton County Clerk’s Office for the issuance of titles, and collecting agency for TWRA (Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency). Hold down expenses - Streamlined paperwork therefore reducing postage, and proven financial efficiency for 16 years.

I will capitalize on future opportunities and pilot programs to generate revenue for Tipton County.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: I look forward to the opportunity to serve in any capacity, to assist the County with strategic planning, and to make our County more attractive to industry in order to promote job growth.

Tell us why people should vote for you: My professionalism, consideration and genuine concern for the citizens of Tipton County along with my managerial and administrative experience uniquely qualifies me for the position of County Clerk.

I am committed to providing the highest quality of customer service and it would be a great honor to have your vote and serve as your next Tipton County Clerk.

Editor’s Note: Pamela Dean, a candidate for county clerk (not to be confused with the incumbent, Pam Deen, who will retire in August) did not respond to our request and has not been included in this section.

COMBS

Continued from page C5 Association in 1996. I have worked with the Tipton County Rescue Squad in the past.

One of the most intense incidents being when Highway 51 Bridge collapsed on April 1st of 1989.

Plans for the future of this office and any changes: My goal as constable will be to work closely with the Tipton County Sheriff’s Department and be able to provide additional law enforcement presence in

District 3. Tipton County has a population of 60,000 and the Sheriff’s Office answers thousands of calls a month. When it comes to crime in our county, you need to remember that Tipton County joins Shelby County; which is listed, as the number three worst county in the nation.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: Electing a constable will help hold down county expenses. A constable is a non-paid position, but is a vital office to our community.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: Everyone knows that we have never made a recovery from the recession. We also know that the county has a budget that has to be maintained. The best way to make a recovery is to be able to control spending and work together utilizing the resources we have access to, while still running an effective office. I’ve seen this first hand after meeting with County Executive Jeff Huffman and speaking with Sheriff

Chumley. A constable position will provide the additional manpower needed without adding additional cost to the county.

Tell us why people should vote for you: I’ve met a lot of people that are supporting me in District 3 since this campaign began; and have had a lot of support from citizens that are not in District 3. In addition, it is a privilege to have the support of Sheriff “Pancho” Chumley who believes that I can be effective and do a good job for the people in Tipton County.

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County Clerk DARLENE WHEELER Please give us your background information: I am a fourth generation Tipton Countian. I graduated from Munford High school in 1977 and I am the daughter of Bob and Faye Ellis of Munford and Roy and Marlyn Stringfellow of Atoka. My grandparents are Spencer and Loree Cole of Munford. I attend and am a member of River of Life Assembly in Munford. I am married to Tim Wheeler and we have three children and three grandchildren. We currently reside in Atoka.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I have been employed with the clerk’s office for more than 20 years. I was hired by Mrs. Clara McMillan and worked for her for four and half years before she retired. I was promoted to Chief Deputy Clerk when Pam Deen was elected to office.

I have held that position for the past 16 years. As chief deputy clerk, I am a supervisor over the motor vehicle division of the office and I am knowledgeable in all other aspects of the office. My responsibilities range from problem solving to balancing daily transactions to attending state meetings for the purpose of learning new laws and implementing them in the office.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: I intend for the transition to a new administration to be very smooth. My goal is for the office to continue in the same professional manner the citizens deserve and are accustomed to. I will continue to strive for excellence in all aspects of the office. As policies change and new laws are passed by the state, I will continue to make sure my office is trained so that we have the best knowledge available to enable us to move forward as technology progresses. As far as changes go, I plan to open the satellite office in Munford two days a week for added convenience. I also plan to offer more of our services at this location.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: In preparing the budget, I will examine each line item and make sure it is as lean as possible without sacrificing service. I will actively seek state offered opportunities to upgrade equipment and use new technology. I will continue to efficiently serve our growing business community and the increasing number of vehicle registrations.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: County Executive Jeff Huffman, the Tipton County Commission, and the Chamber of Commerce are doing an excellent job of recruiting businesses and encouraging industrial expansion. These efforts are creating new jobs for Tipton Countians and this is our greatest need in the current economy.

As clerk, I will continue to support the current efforts and I am willing to take an active role to continue the positive business climate in Tipton County.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in this election: I am the most qualified of all the candidates. Because of my outstanding qualifications the Tipton County Tea Party has endorsed me. I have the most experience and more years of service. The position of chief deputy clerk has given me the knowledge, experience, and managerial skills needed to fulfill this position. This knowledge is essential to becoming your next county clerk. Twenty years of service prove the dedication I have for my job and the citizens of Tipton County. I believe that we are caretakers of the citizens. There is happiness when marriage licenses are issued, excitement when new businesses are opened, sadness when there is a death and vehicles have to be transferred to a surviving spouse, and joy when a new vehicle is purchased. We take care of you in so many different seasons of your life. As clerk, I will continue to serve and care for the citizens of Tipton County as I have over the past 20 years. I respectfully ask for your vote to become your next county clerk and thank you for allowing me to continue my journey in service to you.

The Leader wishes to thank the candidates for their cooperation in the compilation of this information for Tipton County voters.

Every effort was made to contact each candidate on the August 2010 ballot – by phone, postal mail, email and fax – in an attempt to provide questionnaires for this special publication. Some candidates did not choose to answer our efforts and thus have not been included.

Photographs of candidates were provided or taken by Leader staff members upon request. Some candidates did not choose to include a photo with their answers.

County Commissioners OLEAN ANDERSON District 1 Please give us your background information: I am Olean Anderson, the daughter of the late Joseph and Earver Lee Clemons Fields; I am a member of Collins Chapel Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, where I am a member of the Steward Board, and church treasurer and secretary. I am president of the Melanin Book Club, board member of the Covington Economic Development Corporation; Financial Secretary for the Frazier Alumni Association; a member of the Concerned Committed Voters of Tipton County (CCVTC), Habitat for Humanity Board member; a member of the Selective Service Board and a former member of the Tennessee Voters Council. Graduate of Frazier High School; Arrow Business Institute (New York City, NY); State Technical Institute at Memphis Microcomputer Software Application Training Award; TOTAL Leadership Award; attended Dyersburg State Community College and received the Business and Office Systems Achievement Award.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I’ve been involved in the political arena during all of my adult life. I’ve served on several boards that were involved in politics, including the City of Covington Planning Commission and serving as the late John ‘Pop’ Turner’s secretary during his tenure as Mayor of the City of Covington.

Additionally, I have served 34 years as an employee of the City of Covington.

Therefore, the experiences I’ve encountered STEVE BRINGLE District 1 Please give us your background information: I have 16 years of service. I have been on the welfare committee for 16 years.

I have been on public works for eight years with the last four as vice chairman.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I plan to bring new industry to Tipton County, maintain a forward approach in leadership, keep up-to-date law enforcement protection plans, keep up-todate fire and rescue protection and utilize and seek new grants and other financial resources. Tipton County has an abundance to offer. We as the board of commissioners,

and been exposed to, more than qualifies me for the office of County Commissioner.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: Networking with the citizens of Tipton County in order to identify their needs and addressing those needs; establishing a proactive group to encourage citizens to promote positive agendas for themselves, thereby, promoting Tipton County.

I would not make any immediate changes prior to researching what’s already in place.

I will need time to know the status of various county departments prior to contemplating changes.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: I will help diligently to promote Tipton County as a place to live and work. I will help recruit industry and retail establishments to increase tax revenue. We need to market Tipton County to hold down expenses.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: As I stated before, recruit industry and retail establishments to increase tax revenue. We need to market Tipton County so that our citizens will be able to return to work.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in this election: The citizens should vote for me because I will provide them with the necessary directions to improve their lives. It is imperative that all Tipton County citizens be treated humanely and are provided with the same rights. I promise and assure the citizens of Tipton County that I am committed to equal rights for all. have to work to maintain all programs that are currently in place without raising the current tax rate. Tipton County has one of the lowest tax rates in the state. When I was elected in 1994, the honorable Addison Bringle shared some words of wisdom with me. He told me, “Always take care of your constituents and listen to their needs. You can always learn from those whom have chosen you to represent them.” I have taken these words to heart and chosen to listen to my constituents no matter what hardships it may have caused. If re-elected I will continue these same principles. I am a phone call away from my district and will assist my community anyway possible. I am a humble servant that will represent the best interest of my constituents.

To download a Tipton County voter guide, please visit http://tiptonco.com/docs/VOTER_GUIDE.pdf.

8 • Thursday, July 15, 2010 • MEET THE CANDIDATES 2010

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County Commissioners QUINCY S. BARLOW District 1 Please give ud your background information: Quincy S. Barlow, Executive Director of Delta Human Resource Agency, resides in Covington with his wife Shelia. Quincy is the father of two children, Quinten and Britteny and grandfather to Peyton. He is the son of Marjorie W. Barlow and the late V.B. Barlow, Sr. Quincy is a graduate of Covington High School class of 1974, and the University of Tennessee at Martin class of 1977. He worked on his master’s degree in public administration at Memphis State University.

He received a B.A. Divinity, from Arkansas Institute of Biblical Studies. Currently, he is the pastor of Hickory Grove Baptist Church in Brownsville.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: He is co-owner and licensed funeral director and embalmer of Barlow Funeral Home in Covington; he is also a Tipton County Commissioner and presently chairman of the Finance and Administration Commission. He currently serves on the State Health Planning Advisory Board. In 1996, he COURTNEY FEE District 7 Please give us your background information: Courtney grew up in Brighton, attended Brighton High School, and graduated from Munford High School. She obtained her undergraduate degree from Christian Brothers University, and later earned a doctorate in Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Memphis. For the past 7 years, she has served the students of Tipton County as an administrator and a teacher at Munford High School, and is currently an assistant principal at MHS. Prior to returning home to serve her community, Courtney was the Dean of Admissions at CBU. Courtney is a member of Sharon A.R.P. Church.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: Courtney has worked on numerous strategic planning teams for Tipton County Schools and CBU, and is eager to get involved in that type of activity in Tipton County. Additionally, in an effort to improve the education levels of our local workforce, Courtney has worked with county leaders developing a program to increase the num-

was appointed by the Speaker of the House to serve on the Judicial Evaluation Committee.

Additional committees he has served on are Foster Care Board, Recreation Committee, Industrial Board, Chamber of Commerce, Drug Free Tennessee, and Tennessee County Commissioners Board of Directors; he is a former member of Tipton County Hospital Board of Trustees, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas Development Board, and Tipton County Executive Democrat Committee.

Projects and activities include Chairman, Bluff City Funeral Directors Association, Regional Vice-President, Tennessee Funeral Directors & Mortician Association, Advisory Committee, Tri-County Federal Savings and Loan Association, U.S. Census Committee, Tipton County Branch N.A.A.C.P., Rural West Tennessee Advisory Council, Frazier Alumni Association, U.T. Martin Alumni Association, Evening Star Lodge, #62, Master Mason, and Tipton County Fine Arts Council. Quincy began his career as Assistant Credit Manager at Julius Lewis Department Store in Memphis. In 1978, he went on to become a loan officer at Union Planters National Bank. He began in the Tax Enforcement Division for the Tennessee Department of Revenue in 1983 and worked as a Field Representative for sixteen years.

He became transportation director for Delta HRA in October 1999, and in July 2002 he became executive director. ber of local high school graduates attending post-secondary schools such as Dyersburg State and the Tennessee Technology Center.

Courtney is very interested in keeping our community safe, our schools among the best in the state, and our local infrastructure efficient and effective.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: Courtney has a special interest in preparing our local workforce for the different types of business and industry that may come to our area as a result of our proximity to the state’s megasite in West Tennessee. Her other interests include promoting local business and recreational opportunities, and ensuring effective use of tax monies to maintain and improve the county’s commitment to safety, quality schools, and efficient transportation.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: Our county leaders have done a good job of using our tax dollars wisely. We must, however, have a continual commitment to using these dollars wisely. County revenues can increase with additional shopping and recreational opportunities in our county, and with the generation of new business. If tax dollars are not sufficient SEE FEE, PAGE C9

BUDDY BIBB District 5 Please give us your background information: I am married to Sally Newton Bibb and have two children, Eric and Rachel Bibb Blakeman. I am a long –time Presbyterian and ordained as an elder in 1980. I also served as clerk of session, Sunday School Superintendent and Sunday School teacher. I am a graduate of Munford High School and the University of Tennessee at Martin. I also have several graduate degrees from the University of Memphis.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I have spent 13 years as the Director of Instruction for Tipton County Schools. I also spent five years as the Munford Elementary principal and three years as assistant principal for Brighton and Munford Elementary.

Before that I was a teacher and coach in the Tipton County schools for 10 years and I was certified as Career Ladder 3.

I have been a member of the County Commission since 1982 and was chairman ProTem of since 1986. While I spent time on the commission I was also Vice-chairman of finance and administration committee, chairman of general welfare committee, a member of the UT Martin WestStar Leadership Class of 2002 and nominated at one of the Outstanding Young Men of America in 1985. I am also the President of the TN Association for Supervision and MIKE STERLING District 4 Please give us your background information: Born and raised in Atoka. Married to former Katrina Pugh for 25 years. I have two daughters, Lyndsey and Micah. I graduated from Munford High and Memphis State University (B.B.A) Active member of Salem A.R.P. Church.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I am in my twelfth year as county commissioner in district 4. I served on the welfare and public works committees. I also have served as vice-chairman on the welfare committee.

Please tell us your plans for the future

Curriculum development, on the board of the Munford library, on the Tipton Literacy Council, the DSCC Advisory Committee, the TN Technology Center at Covington General Advisory Committee and the Northwest TN P-16 Council.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: Continue to help create an environment where people want to live and educate their children.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: Stress the importance of spending “In-County” to increase our sales tax base.

Hold Down expenses by being a good steward of the citizens’ tax dollars by closely monitoring the county budget as be as efficient as possible.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: We need to continue to live within our means just as families and individuals are expected. One of the reasons we are in this economic downturn is because of the credit crisis. Shopping in the county to increase our sales tax base would also help. By following Tipton County’s Five Year Asset Based Strategic Economic Development Plan and Tipton Schools’ Five Year Strategic Plan.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in this election: I want to do what I can to improve the lives of the people living in Tipton County.

of this office, including any changes: To continue to serve district 4 to the best of my ability. To encourage open communication.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: To make sure everything we do or spend is always efficient. We use all the resources we have or can obtain.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: To provide or create as many jobs as possible in the county and to encourage Tipton Countians to shop in the county.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in the election: Atoka is my home and focus of my concerns. I have seen a lot of changes in Atoka and the south end of the county. I understand and have experience in the day to day issues that effect our district and county.

Candidates Arnold McIntyre, James C. Adkins, Johnnie Jones, Wesley Broughton and Jeff Scott did not respond to our request and has not been included in this section.

Thursday, July 15, 2010 • MEET THE CANDIDATES 2010 • 9

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County Commissioners BOB WILSON District 8 Please give us your background information: I was born and raised in Drummonds.

I graduated from Munford High School and attended Memphis State University. I am the son of Kathleen Cole Wilson and the late H.T. Wilson. I am married to Claudia McCormick Wilson and have one daughter, Blaire Wilson Parchman.

My son-in-law, Bob Parchman, and two grandchildren, Kate and Robert Hale, complete my family.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: Having lived in Tipton County most of my lie, I understand the needs and opportunities of a once rural area that is changing into a more suburban environment. Tipton County has its unique challenges that have to be addressed. I have owned and operated three small businesses, enabling me to understand the necessity for sound fiscal management in all area county government.

My background in construction provides me with the skills to bring projects in on time and on budget. During the past 14 years, I have served on the Construction Committee for the county, This committee was in charge of county construction projects consisting of the criminal justice complex jail, addition to Tipton County Health Department, renovation of the court house and old justice complex and the Drummonds Fire Station.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: We must continue to keep our property tax at a reasonable rate, at the same time providing adequate services to the citizens of Tipton County. We must continue to add services that will enhance the quality of life for everyone, realizing that this should be done in such a manner that county debt will be kept in control and appropriately managed.

Thomas Jefferson once said, “I place economy among the first and more important

virtues and public debts the greatest danger to be feared. TO preserve our independence, we must not let our leaders lead us with perpetual debt.” We must keep debt under control in order to maintain our current bond rating while providing essential service to the citizenry of Tipton County.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: The good news is county and state sales tax revenue has shown an increase during the past few months. The current slow growth in the county school system will allow local governments the opportunity to reduce some of the county debt and focus on other needs, such as expansion of the county jail. I think all of the county offices, working with the commission, have helped maintain a delicate balance between a reasonable property tax rate and providing the necessary services our hard working citizens expect and deserve.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: County government has taken a proactive and aggressive approach to economic development. With the HTL advantage, Tipton County partnered with Haywood County and Lauderdale County to pursue economic development from a regional standpoint.

The megasite in western Haywood County now gives all of West Tenn. an excellent opportunity to move toward the future in new and exciting ways. Our county is also engaged in improving the number of Tipton County students planning to attend college.

It is through a good, educated workforce that Tipton County will be able to continue to bring in new jobs as the recent Unilever expansion in Covington.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in this election: I have been a county commissioner for the past 16 years and I understand the importance of compromise when necessary and commitment to work for the good of the county at all times. I will continue to be accessible, to be held accountable and to remain dedicated to serving.

FEE

Continued from Page C8 Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: We need to continue to live within our means just as families and individuals are expected. One of the reasons we are in this economic downturn is because of the credit crisis. Shopping in the county to increase our sales tax base would also help. By follow-

ing Tipton County’s Five Year Asset Based Strategic Economic Development Plan and Tipton Schools’ Five Year Strategic Plan.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in this election: I want to do what I can to improve the lives of the people living in Tipton County.

MARK JOHNSON District 4 Please give us your background information: I have been married to Cheryl (Kratky) Johnson for eleven years. We have four children. Our son Alex is 10 years old. Our son Gabriel is 8 years old. Our son Michael is 6 years old. And our daughter Keely is 4 years old. All three boys attend the Atoka Elementary School.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I have been actively involved in local government since 1996. My career began as a volunteer and progressed to a town administrator. I have experience in nearly all facets of local government including training and experience in public safety, public works, and community development. Moreover, I have been certified as a firefighter, police officer, water distribution operator, and wastewater collection system operator. I have an Associate of Science degree from Dyersburg State Community College and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Memphis.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: . The county commission, under the leadership of the Honorable Jeff Huffman, has done a wonderful job moving our county forward.

I intend to become part of the team, work with the other commissioners, and draw upon my experience in local government to help identify opportunities and solve challenges the county will face in the critical years ahead.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: The good news is county and state sales tax will support the ideals that make Tipton County a safe environment for our citizens JOHNNY BURLISON District 3 Please give us your background information: My family came to Tipton County in the early 1800’s. My father and grandfather both held public offices in Tipton County. I have lived here all of my life and feel quite fortunate to have lived in this fine county.

Actually, the town of Burlison was named for my ancestors. My roots and love for this county are deep. My wife Jan and I live in the Holly Grove community and are members of Holly Grove CP Church. We have three children and four grandchildren.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I have mostly qualifications from my professional life in sales and service. Being a part of the business sector as sales manager at Tennessee Tractor, I not only have

and a friendly atmosphere for business and industry. As costs rise and revenues become stagnant, I will support the options that keep taxes as low as possible while providing a good quality-of-life for all of us.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: The county’s leaders have done a great job of keeping up with the growth we have experienced in previous years and handling the economic downturn we have been experienced recently. The county should continue to focus expenditures on the necessary public services that governments were initially created to provide while eliminating the non essential expenditures. Additionally, the county should continue to promote ourselves as a place where business and industry can be successful. I would support actions that would unite Tipton County communities in reaching goals that are mutually beneficial to our citizens and work with the communities surrounding Tipton County on issues that are of a regional importance.

We can all do our part by supporting our local businesses where possible and letting everyone know what a great place Tipton County is to do business, work, live, and raise a family.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in this election: If elected, I will continue to be an advocate for education, public safety, public works, and businesses and industries that will bring jobs to our families. I will be accessible to the public and will work with the other county leaders, city leaders, citizens, and businesses to address the opportunities and challenges that will improve our community. If you believe these issues are important to the continued success of our community, please vote for me. experience in management but experience in people skills from meeting and dealing with the public which I enjoy greatly. My professional career has been one of service to others and I truly believe this enables me to serve the citizens of my district with the same professional manner.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: My plans for the future of this office are to serve the citizens with integrity, common sense and good judgment. My goals are to hold property taxes down, provide adequate funding for schools and to maintain quality roads and county services. I feel that our nation and country are facing some difficult times ahead. These challenging times are going to demand good county personnel SEE BURLISON, PAGE C10

10 • Thursday, July 15, 2010 • MEET THE CANDIDATES 2010

www.covingtonleader.com

County Commissioners DALE SMITH District 9

BURLISON

Continued from Page C9 and efficient management by the county officials and county commission.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: There is really only one way to increase local revenues without raising property taxes.

Sales tax collections must increase. We must generate more jobs, which will result in greater sales tax collections from the spending of more disposable income by citizens.

As far holding expenses down, all county commissioners should be a part of an effort to be fully engaged in understanding where our tax money is spent and if there are any areas of waste in our county government.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: Our county can and will rebound from the current economic downturn when our country as a whole sees an upswing in the economy. We as a nation, state and county need to

remove the many rules and regulations that are killing small businesses. We must pass relief from burdensome laws that do not allow us to compete globally with countries such as China, Mexico and Canada. If we heal as a county, we must make our county attractive to industry in order to move in a positive direction.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in the election: My family is very important to me. I have two daughters teaching in our school system and grandchildren attending our schools so, naturally, I want to see great schools. As a property owner, I know that keeping property taxes affordable is important to everyone. As a businessman, I want to see our county run as a business should be. Lastly, the voters and citizens in District 3 should vote for me because I intend to serve the citizens honestly, conservatively and make the citizen’s proud to say that I represent them.

Election Day is Tuesday, August 3. Polls will be open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Elect Casey

FLETCHER

SEE BARR, PAGE C12

For Tipton County Clerk I am an experienced leader and a smart businessman, well known and liked, hard-working, and I want to serve you.

CAN I GET YOUR VOTE? Paid for by Cari Dee Dawson Treasurer - Amanda Fletcher

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Please give us your background information: I am 54 years old and born and raised in Brighton. I graduated Brighton High in 1973 and attended Memphis State University. I married Terri Strong in 1975 and we have three children who all live in the Brighton area with our four grandchildren. Together we opened S & S Industries in 1984, which today has changed to IPL Industrial Services, with the home office in Brighton and a gulf coast office that has its 16-year anniversary this year in Pass Christian, Miss. and IPL employs approximately 165 craftsmen.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I have held this office since 1992.

I originally was in District 4 but when we realigned our address changed to District 9. My 26 years running our business gives me a competitive advantage on running our local government, because I have had the opportunity to see first hand how other governments in other countries and states work and use what is good and stay away from what doesn’t work. I also believe government should operate just like business and that is physically conservative and our financial standing in our country shows this.

I have been on the budget and finance committee for 18 years I have been on the County Commission, and it is always important to live within your income.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: As a County Commissioner, I want to stay on the path that we have set for Tipton County to have great schools, good roads, and on of the finest Sheriff’s departments in West Tennessee. These three items combined with low property taxes is a win, win for everyone and I want to continue to encourage taxpayers in our district to call with questions and suggestions because the more ideas we have as a group the stronger community we will have.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: Tipton County has been very fortunate to have a County Mayor that seems to be able to pull rabbits out of the hat sometimes when it comes to county funding. As we all know economic times are hard all over the country and certainly Tennessee has been hit hard with months on consecutive decline in revenue and this filters down in the form of budget cuts in funding to counties. Our local option sales tax has been hard hit by this downturn, but the numbers are starting to show signs of improvement and our property tax collections have been good. So

that helps shore up our revenue. We will ask every department to carefully review their budget and cut out any unnecessary items that they can live without. I am sure that the County Executive and Budget Director Petty will continue to pursue any grant options that are out there and bring the best ones to the County Commission for consideration.

We also need to look at alternative forms of energy to run our county buildings to help reduce our utility bills. This will serve a two fold purpose; First we have the potential to receive grants for installation of wind and solar energy that can be installed on some of our county buildings and this will lower to operating cost of the facilities. Second, the more renewable energy we can use the better our county can sell itself to outside industry as a progressive county. I also feel that the approach of staying physically conservative will help see us through these hard times.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: There are several things as a county we can do, but one of the main things is job creation.

We have a great corridor in 51 Highway, I-40 is not very far, nor is I-55 and we border the megasite in Haywood County, so all that is a positive for Tipton County. We have to continue to try to educate our workforce to be able to land a long term, high paying industry in our county. We have a great institution in Dyersburg State Community College with excellent programs designed around 21st century training, and we have an excellent vocational school that does a great job training students no matter the age, to help them find a first time career or restart a career. So many of us my age have never seen anything like this downturn, and there has been a transformation in the needs of our industry for workers that can keep up with the latest technology, and there is an increasing demand for tasks that require human skills complemented by technology, and the industries that are looking at Tipton County are going to want a workforce that can think, study and learn and be able to solve problems that don’t have an obvious solution.

So many of these new jobs will require less than a bachelor’s degree, but yet more than a high school education and we have the means here in Tipton County to educate our own workforce and this will keep us moving in a positive fashion.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in this election: I want the people in my district to vote for me because I am passionate about Tipton County and I believe that it is a great place to live and raise your family.

I will continue to work for the taxpayers of District 9 and continue to listen to them and make informed decisions on how I spend their money to keep our children educated, safe, and happy for the betterment of the community.

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Thursday, July 15, 2010 • MEET THE CANDIDATES 2010 • 11

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ELECT

BERT

“Congressman Marsha Blackburn is one of the best speakers that I have ever had the opportunity to spend time with and discuss how important it is to be involved in the election process as well as the different aspects about her career.” – Bert Combs

COMBS

CONSTABLE DISTRICT 3

My name is Bert Combs and I have lived in District 3 since 1988. My wife of 22 years is Leigh Ann Combs. I have worked with the Tipton County Rescue Squad, one of the most intense incidents being when Highway 51 Bridge collapsed on April 1, 1989.

My goal as constable will be to work closely with Tipton County Sheriff’s Department and be able to provide additional law enforcement presence in District 3.

Electing a constable will help hold down county expenses.

A constable is a non-paid position, but a vital office to our community.

It is a privilege to have the support of Sheriff “Pancho” Chumley who believes that I can be effective and do a good job for the people in Tipton County.

Paid for by the committee to elect Bert Combs Constable District 3, Leigh Ann Combs, Treasurer.

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12 • Thursday, July 15, 2010 • MEET THE CANDIDATES 2010

County Commissioners ED BARR District 7 Please give us your background information: As a child, I was raised in Memphis and attended Evangelical Christian School, Briarcrest Christian School, and East High Vocational School where I majored in Automotive Mechanics. My next 12 years were spent in the US Navy as an Aircraft Mechanic, Instructor, and Quality Assurance Supervisor. The past 15 years I have managed the Housekeeping Department at Bellevue Baptist Church in Cordova.

My wife Donna and I have been married for 26 years and we have three grown children and one grandchild.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I have led people and managed assets for over 30 years in various fields including the military, the private sector, and most recently in a not-for- profit organization. My experience includes budget management, government and military operations, as well as technical writing, and research & development. I have a long history of experience in both the aircraft maintenance and the building maintenance industries which has given me a unique qualification in understanding logistics, engineering, and infrastructure.

Plans for the future of this office, including any changes: There is a key area of opportunity concerning communications between local government officials and the people of Tipton County. As a commissioner I would like to open those lines of communication and be able to feel the pulse of our community. This can be accomplished through expanded use of the internet, email, and town hall style meetings. The people want to be heard and I for one want to hear them. The people should know what their Commission is doing and why. It is only through the consent of the governed that the government should operate.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: GLENN TURNER District 5 Please give us your background information: I was born in Memphis and moved to Munford in 1989. I began working for Tipton County Schools at that time and I am currently the principal of Munford Middle School. I am married to the former Stacy Forbess of Munford. We have three children: Dylan, Alex and Addison.

Please give us your qualifications: I have been a teacher, assistant principal, transportation supervisor and principal for the Tipton County school system. These assign-

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There are two big ways we can increase revenue. First: by keeping county taxes at or lower than the surrounding counties.

This will encourage our citizens to spend their money locally. Second: by offering tax incentives and other infrastructure enticements we can lure new businesses and retailers to Tipton County. Both of these lead to increased tax dollars. To hold the line on expenditures, accountability is the key element. We must hold each Department Head accountable to the Commission for reducing wasteful spending and ensuring they do not spend what they do not have.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: The time for blaming one another for the economic climate has long passed. The time has come to put aside those differences and work toward common sense solutions.

Tipton County needs real jobs. One way we can accomplish this is through supporting the TVA’s West Tennessee Megasite near Stanton. This 1,720 acre site known as the I-40 Advantage Auto Park is potentially one of the biggest opportunities we have seen here in a long while. The possibility of an automobile production plant or other similar industry this close to our county will have a positive ripple effect bringing in both high-paying jobs and associated businesses to our area. Again, this is another reason for Tipton County to hold the line on taxes and even consider tax reductions to improve our stance on benefiting from this positive direction.

Please tell us why people should vote for you: Why should someone vote for me?

It’s simple: I believe in servant leadership.

If you call me, I will answer the phone. If I can’t get to the phone, I will return your call.

If you email me, I will return the courtesy.

If you come by the house, we can sit on the porch and have some iced tea. I will work hard to keep Tipton County safe and serene.

I may not be able to resolve every problem, but you will not be ignored. I will listen and I will be a fresh voice for each citizen and the great people of Tipton County. ments have allowed me to work with budgets and to become more efficient in being a caretaker of public money. In the course of my job assignments, I have been fortunate to be able to interact with people around the county and listen to their views and opinions on our county, our government and our services.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: In this time of economic uncertainty, the county commission needs to continue to maintain a tight budget. The commission has done a

www.covingtonleader.com

Re-Elect Sheriff

J.T. ‘PANCHO’ Chumley

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! A questionnaire was submitted by Tipton County Sheriff Pancho Chumley was submitted and appears in page A5 of today’s edition.

Paid For By The Committee To Elect J.T. ‘Pancho’ Chumley, Sheriff. M.O. Eckel III, Treasurer.

SEE TURNER, PAGE C13

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Thursday, July 15, 2010 • MEET THE CANDIDATES 2010 • 13

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County Commissioners JEFF MASON District 3 Please give us your background information: I have lived in Tipton County all of my life. I am married to the former Diane Kobeck.

We have two sons, J.B. Mason, who just completed his third year of medical school and Jon David Mason, who is affiliated with the three businesses we own. I have two brothers, Jimmy Mason of Southaven and Jere Mason of Covington and a sister, Alice Pegg of Covington. I was raised on a farm at Mt. Lebanon and attended Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church. I began driving tractors on the family farm at age seven and helped my brother with his ice cream route from age 11-13. I have worked for McCool’s Supermarket, Big Star, Naifeh’s Lucky and Foodrite, Kroger and Fred Montesi Grocery. I have 36 years of experience as a butcher, 21 years experience in the deer processing business, and 11 years experience in the ice cream business.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I have eight years experience on the finance committee, eight years experience on Homeland Security committee, eight on the Ag committee and four on the RUSTY WOOTEN District 1 Please give us your background information: I am a lifelong resident of Tipton County. My parents of Allen Wooten and the late Bessie Hill Wooten.

I am married to Renee Harper Wooten and have one son, Benton Wooten. My family and I are actively engaged in the farm implement business. I have farmed and still currently raise cattle in Tipton County. I serve on the Farm Bureau Board.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I have served as commissioner for the past eight years. During those eight years I have been on both the public works committee and the general welfare committee. I listen to my constituents and make every effort to be proactive on any issue that the county can help with.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: I am very proud to call Tipton County my home.

We have excellent government, schools, law enforcement and a tremendous infrastructure of roads and utilities. Because of these things our county has progresses tremendously with the rapid growth and influx of

9/11 committee. I also have 36 years of business experience. Before all of this I chopped cotton on the family farm for 10 years.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: To continue to hold down taxes. I will work closely with all departments to make sure they have the basic needs to serve the public.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: It will be my goal to increase the county revenue by increasing jobs. This would increase sales tax revenue. I will continue to watch the county budget very closely.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: We must have jobs. More jobs will provide salaries for many people who in turn boost the local economy.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in the election: I have served the community in this position for eight years. I have worked hard for the people of Tipton County. It is a privilege to work for the people of this county and I feel that I have served well. I will work hard and will be available to the people. I also feel that being in the public with my businesses makes me easily accessible to the people. I have spent eight years as commissioner and I hope you will continue to support me in this position.

I will serve to the best of my ability. newcomers. All one has to do is compare the quality of life and amenities in Tipton County with our neighboring counties to realize that our citizens have been given the primary beneficiaries of a strong and sound government. I plan to continue with the progress that has already been established to provide our citizens with the environment in which they want to continue to live and raise their families for generations to come.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: I believe we are doing a great job in balancing the revenues and holding down expenses. I also believe the county should continue to be proactive in anticipating the increasing expenses to benefit the citizens as well as to explore fair and reasonable options to increase out revenues. Please remember that these revenues are what educate our children and provide us with the ability to continue to have Tipton County grow and prosper.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: For Tipton County to continue to rebound from the economic downturn we must first educate more of our people. The only way for us to bring more industry and more SEE WOOTEN, PAGE C14

HAROLD “POOCHIE” TWISDALE District 7 Please give us your background information: I am a lifelong resident of the Gainesville community in Tipton County. Married to Ruth Miller Twisdale with three children, six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. I am a member of Ebenezer Cumberland Presbyterian Church where I serve as an elder and Sunday school superintendent and teacher.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: My work experience is 33 years of service for the Shelby County Road Department in various positions, ending as supervisor. I have been a Tipton County Commissioner since 1986, serving on the Public Works Committee and the General Welfare Committee since 2002. I have served four years as the Chairman of the Public Works Committee. My service also includes being a member of the original HLT Regional Solid Waste Board, which is now the Tipton County Solid Waste Board. I have attended several training sessions with the Tennessee County Service Association on Governmental Operations.

Please tell us your plans for the future of the office, including any changes: The Tipton County Commission is a very organized group. We do a good job of handling the business of the county and providing an opportunity for citizens to be heard. I believe that if issues develop that show we need to change the way we operate, then we need to address that and I would be willing to listen to the people and make those changes.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: Revenues are the lifeblood of any business and it is the same in government. Right now,

I think that we need to make sure that we continue to have entertainment and retail opportunities for the citizens of this county.

It it important to provide services to the people that will allow them to do business here and not in other places. This also saves money for the citizens with energy prices as high as they are. This is a way that revenue can increase. But one of the main goals of government is to insure that all money is being collected is being spent the right way. I have always reviewed the budget in full and asked questions about expenditures. I want to make sure that all taxpayers are getting services that represent what they are sacrificing to government.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: Even though our county has experienced an economic downfall, we continue to remain focused on providing quality services for all citizens. In Public Works, we are looking at the need to improve our current roads and plan for new ones that might be developed. I believe that we need to keep our minds open and address problems before they happen and not just react to them.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in the election: With the experience I have gained for the past 24 years, I believe that I am well qualified to represent the people for another four years. I have always listened to the people of my district and will continue to do so. There have been many issues that have come to the table in my tenure, including road improvements and school construction and expansion, and I have listened to everyone that has had an opinion on these three issues. I hope they will allow me the opportunity to do so again.

TURNER

Continued from page C12 great job managing tax dollars without reducing services. Although costs continue to rise, we have been able to maintain our budget without a property tax increase.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: I will continue to encourage people to shop locally to increase our county sales tax revenue.

The county commission does a good job of examining the budget and finding ways to save money.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: The key is shopping locally and encouraging our county residents to get a post-secondary education. As government officials, we need to market the West Tennessee Mega-site.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in the election: I am honest, hard-working and fair. I will do my best to serve the people of Tipton County. I listen to my constituents and try to keep their best interest in mind when making a decision that will impact the future of Tipton County.

Editor’s Note: Arnold McIntyre, James C. Adkins, Johnnie Jones, Wesley Broughton and Jeff Scott, candidates for this position in varying districts, did not respond to our requests for information and have not been included in this section.

14 • Thursday, July 15, 2010 • MEET THE CANDIDATES 2010

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County Commissioners TOM EMERSON District 4 Please give us your background information: I’ve been married 36 years to my wife Terry, four children, and one grandson. I’m a pro-Life conservative and attend church at Hosanna, Atoka – Munford. I also am a boys baseball coach and men’s softball coach at Gateway Baptist Church, Atoka. I am an active member of ATC Gym in Brighton. I am employed with the State of Tennessee and an IT professional/manager for more than 30 years.

I served in the US Navy and was honorably discharged and am a Vietnam era veteran.

I have been a resident of Tennessee for 30 years and a resident of Tipton County for nine years. I have been involved in grass roots politics for 25 years.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I am willing to serve the citizens of Tipton County and Atoka and have been a resident of Tennessee for 30 years and a resident of Tipton County for nine years.

I am a Vietnam era veteran and proud US citizen and verteran of the US Navy. I have managed IT personnel for more than 30 years and have been involved in grass roots politics for 25 years. I am a former officer of TOMMY DUNAVANT District 2 Please give us your background information: I am a 30 year veteran with the Covington Fire Department holding the rank of Captain. I am also the Director of Covington-Tipton County Emergency Management Agency. I am married to Beth Stiles Dunavant, and have a son Brad (Sarah) Dunavant, and two grandchildren Andi and Bo. My parents are Andrew and Doris Dunavant of Covington.

I am a member of Oak Grove Baptist Church.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I am serving my first term as District 2 Commissioner being elected in 2006.

I presently serve on the General Welfare Committee, as well as the Tipton County Public Works Committee.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: The plans for the future of this office is to continue working with Economic Development to generate jobs, help retain existing jobs, and stimulate industrial and commercial growth.

- Continuing to support the school system so that we can give every student in the county a chance at higher education.

various political organizations. I have a love of Atoka and Tipton County and care about our future. I developed all campaign material and website myself.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: To serve the citizens of Atoka and Tipton County. No new taxes To solicit suggestions/recommendations from citizens of Tipton County for decision making. To communicate to public what their County Commission does and decides (projects, budget, plans, etc.). Both hearing from the citizens of Tipton County and communicating from the Tipton County Commission to the public will be accomplished through my website www.commishemerson.org. To prepare for growth, create more Tipton County jobs and bring new businesses into Tipton County.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: The best way to increase Tipton County revenues is to prepare for growth by having land and resources available to attract existing and new businesses/corporations from their existing locations to Tipton County.

My philosophy is that if Tipton County and Atoka attract businesses/corporations to relocate to Tipton County and Atoka, it will create more Tipton County jobs. More Tipton County jobs will give more Tipton Countians more personal responsibility; create a more positive atmosphere to live in; more ownership of their lives, family and - Supporting law enforcement in the County to insure that citizens feel protected in their homes, schools, churches, and out shopping.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: Increasing revenues can be accomplished by the “shop at home” campaign, and I think shoppers in the county are starting to realize how important it is to keep your dollars in the county. Sales Tax has been up the last two months across the county, and I feel like it is for a number of reasons. Shoppers feel safer here, there is more of a selection across the county from clothes to food, and it cost extra to travel outside the county.

Holding down expenses goes back to watching taxpayers money as if it was yours. And don’t spend what you don’t have. County Commissioners and County Executive have done a good job with that for several years.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: Please see statement 4.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in the election: I have enjoyed serving as your District 2 County Commissioner, and look forward to the next four years.

community; increase the level of education for our children; and generate more revenue for Atoka and Tipton County. Note: the education level that exists in Tipton County now is very good. My previous statement is in regards to raising the bar even higher than it is now by building upon what already exists, which is a very good education system in Tipton County.

By increasing Tipton County revenues by my goals listed above, the expenses will automatically decrease because the revenues will outweigh the expenses. People in Tipton County now drive to Memphis for major restaurants, Mall shopping, entertainment, car dealerships, and etc. Atoka and Tipton County is growing. We should embrace the growth instead of pushing it away. And by embracing the growth, we make changes to accommodate the citizens of Tipton County by making everything local with less driving and expense on gas.

This can all be accomplished by a serious County Commission that works toward achieving these goals and in return making Atoka and Tipton County more attractive to live in and to move to.

When families and people move to Atoka and Tipton County, they should be comforted by the fact that both are a very safe place to live, thanks to our local police and county sheriffs departments. With proper city and county administration and planning, any family or person moving into Atoka and Tipton County should be at rest that they can enjoy Tipton County, knowing that both Atoka and Tipton County is a great and peaceful place to live.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion:

First and foremost, no new taxes should be implemented by the Tipton County Commission upon the citizens of Tipton County.

Existing taxes can be investigated and possibly some of the existing tax can be redirected to some other project that needs the money invested that is a higher priority, such as healing Tipton County from the flooding problems where many have lost from some to everything. Future flood prevention by proper administration and planning has to be addressed and a plan implemented.

Existing businesses and corporations relocating to Tipton County will generate the revenues to rebound from the economic downturn and keep Tipton County moving forward in a very positive direction.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in the election: I try to be as honest and truthful as possible. I can make no promises except that I will stand in and represent the citizens of Atoka and Tipton County at every County Commission meeting I attend. I, like so many Tipton Countians, need fresh and new leadership and commissioners that will serve the citizens of Tipton County instead of themselves. There are 18 county commissioners and one county executive (mayor) who make all the decisions for Tipton County. In my opinion, there should be 18 county commissioners and one county mayor who strive to serve and represent every citizen of Tipton County and at the least listen to what the citizens of Tipton County have to offer before making any decisions.

Yes, this may very well mean longer county commission meetings for the commissioners, but I for one am willing to go the extra mile to serve and represent not only every citizen in Atoka, but every citizen of all Tipton County.

WOOTEN

doing the best job I can to represent District 1 and Tipton County. I will continue to work with all the people and have an open door policy. It has been a great honor for the past eight years to serve the people of Tipton County in making our community a better place. I ask for you to re-elect me for another four years so that I can continue to serve and watch Tipton County grow into a bigger and better place for our families to prosper for generations to come.

Continued from Page C13 business to our area is for the people in our community to have higher education and job skills. This means that more of our people need to have vocational training and more need to have college educations. The county has in place programs to help mentor and fund such programs.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in the election: I am committed to

The Leader wishes to thank the candidates for their cooperation in the compilation of this information for Tipton County voters.

Every effort was made to contact each candidate on the August 2010 ballot – by phone, postal mail, email and fax – in an attempt to provide questionnaires for this special publication. Some candidates did not choose to answer our efforts and thus have not been included.

Photographs of candidates were provided or taken by Leader staff members upon request. Some candidates did not choose to provide staff members with a photo.

Thursday, July 15, 2010 • MEET THE CANDIDATES 2010 • 15

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School Board

ALVIS FERRELL District 7 Please give us your background information: I was born and raised in Tipton County and a graduate of Covington High School. I have been married for 30 years to Lynn Eubank Ferrell and we have two children, Brian and Kristina Ferrell.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I have lived in District 7 for 30 years. My family, my wife’s family, and both of our children have all graduated from Tipton County Schools. My father-in-law, Mr. Rodney Eubank held this school board seat for over 30 years. I am honored to have been appointed to fill his seat until the election.

I have learned so much about our school system through my involvement in various school related functions. My father-in-law taught me through his passion and his example how very important our school system is and our excellent schools are for our children.

Plans for the future of this office and any CHRIS FISHER District 2 Please give us your background information: Married for 23 years to Lessie Chapman Fisher. I have 25 years of an electrical environment and am a veteran of Southwest Electric Cooperative.

I have been a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers LU474 for 25 years. I am also a member of Covington First Methodist Church, Covington Soccer Booster club and the Dunham Lodge Free and Accepted Masons, 150.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I attend all parent and teacher conferences, volunteer in special events and projects, and I established the indoor soccer program for Covington and Brighton girls which is currently being taught by college instructors. My daughter Christal is an honors graduate of Covington High school and she is now enrolled at Union University with an academic and athletic scholarships.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office and any changes: I plan to be an active, well-informed member of the school board who will be responsive to the needs of the students, parents, faculty and administrators. I will work to maintain a safe and healthy learning environment for our chil-

changes: I plan to support and work with Dr. Tim Fite and the members of the School Board to continue to improve education and make Tipton County Schools better for all the children of our county.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: I will continue to support a balanced budget for the school system and support only expenses necessary to improve our schools.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: Education is a big part of the future of Tipton County. Business and manufacturing growth depends on the high school and college graduates along with the development of trade skills to employ. We should do what we can to ensure the opportunity for every person to enhance their education while in our county school system.

Please tell us why people should vote for you: I will continue to support the development of our school system and do what is best for all of the children of Tipton County.

I would appreciate the opportunity to work on behalf of the children of the community where I have been blessed to live for many years.

dren and will support any changes that will be beneficial to the district schools.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: I will work with county commissioners and the administration to promote a sound fiscal policy that provides our schools with the faculty, staff and resources necessary to provide our children with the quality education that will enable them to acquire jobs for a better quality of life.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: I will work with county elected officials to craft a progressive but fiscally responsible budget insuring a commitment to the creation of jobs though industrial recruitment and development. And promote initiatives that will grow tourism venue in our region would create new revenue streams.

Please tell us why people should vote for you: While my daughter attended our schools, I became acquainted with outstanding teachers and staff who loved their profession as well as our children. Their hard work, dedication and success is inspirational to me. Although my only child is now in college, I want to continue my involvement with school officials just as I have these past 13 years. By working together, we will insure that our grandchildren will have an even better school system that will meet the challenges of an ever-changing world.

Visit the Tipton County Election Commission online at http://tiptonco.com/Depts_ElectionCommission.html

DON CLARK District 2 Please give us your background information: I have been married to Ellen Shankle Clark for 32 years. My children are Will and Kristy Clark and Steve and Angela Clark My grandchildren: Griffin Clark and Lane Clark. I graduated Covington High School in 1972 and the University of Tennessee at Martin in 1978.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I am an advocate of public education and school board member since 1992.

I achieved Level IV boardsmanship by participating in TSBA sponsored workshops and leadership conferences.

Plans for the future of this office and any changes: Continue to measure all decisions in child / student benefit. Provide a safe and challenging learning environment for the students and teachers of Tipton County.

Continue to encourage the citizens of Tipton County to be active in their children’s edu-

GERALD BELLOWS District 2 Please give us your background information: I graduated from Gateway College, Kenosha, Wisc. I worked as a corporate accountant for 30 years at Outboard Marine Corporation, Waukegan, Ill. I was a member and on the board of directors of National Association of Accountanting, Racine Wisconsin Chapter. My wife an I purchased a house at 478 Burnett Lane in Covington in 1998. I’m married to Wanda Jackson Bellow, who was born in Covington

cation by participating in school programs.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: Increasing county revenues and holding down expenses: The Tipton County legislature does an excellent job of funding the county’s schools. The school system does not have taxing authority but does work to increase revenue by pursuing state and federal grants. Expenses are managed by outsourcing some services and by scaling back capital improvement projects.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: Continue to make education a top priority in order to provide an educated work force that today’s job market requires and to make Tipton County attractive to new industry.

Please tell us why people should vote for you: I believe in the public education system. My grandchildren, nieces and nephews give me a vested interest in the future of the county’s schools. I have 18 years of experience serving as a member of the school board and a desire to see our students and schools succeed.

and attended Munford schools. We have five children, 13 grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren. I’m a member of Covington Museum, Covington Library, in the Tennessee Master Gardener Program, been active in Tipton County Tea Party, and Tennessee Collation of Tea Parties. My hobbies are gardening, nutrition studies and exercise programs for health. I’m presently employed at H.T. Hackney in Covington.

Please give us your qualifications: My accounting experience gives me an excellent understanding of budgeting. My wife and I were very active with the schools and our children’s education. I’m a conservative and understand the real meaning our Constitution.

Please tell us your plans for the future SEE BELLOW, PAGE C16

-VOTE-

Robert W. (Bob) Wilson COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 8 Paid for by Robert W. Wilson

16 • Thursday, July 15, 2010 • MEET THE CANDIDATES 2010

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School Board SHAREE KAESBURG District 7 Please give us your background information: I am a lifelong resident of Tipton County and a graduate of Covington High School. I continued my post-secondary education at Southwest Tennessee Community College and completed several courses from the USDA Graduate School. I have been employed with the U.S. Navy for 30 years as an IT Specialist and Research Analyst.

Throughout my career, I have worked on high-level initiatives with Senior Navy officials and other Federal agencies, such as the Office of Management and Budget and the Assistant Joint Chiefs of Staff.

I have been married to Don Kaesberg for 22 years, and we have fivechildren: Kyle, 20; Clayton, 17; Joey, 14; James, 14; and Emily, 11. My parents are native Tipton Countians, Alma Bryson and the late Clabern Bryson. I am a member of the Holly Grove Cumberland Presbyterian Church, where I am a Sunday School teacher and assist with children and youth activities. I participate annually in a variety of school and community service projects.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: My most significant qualification for the Board of Education is that I have a vested interest in the Tipton County School System. I have four children who are currently students in this system. One son graduated from Brighton High School and will be a junior in college this fall. I attribute his college academic success to the excellent preparation he received in Tipton County schools. I want to ensure that all Tipton County students including my children have access to and opportunities to achieve a quality education – vocational, technical, and/or college prep.

Additionally, my experience in Information Technology, research and data analysis would be beneficial in conducting assessments to support initiatives and implement policies.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: Tipton County Schools have significantly advanced from the aged buildings I attended to the pristine campuses we have today. We have an excellent school system, and topnotch educators who teach our children.

However, as with any organization, there is a need for continuous improvement. I would like to help lead and guide Tipton County schools as they continue to be inno-

vative and forward thinking to meet the educational needs of our children who must be prepared to thrive and survive in a chaotic and competitive 21st century world.

We live in a global economy. I would like to see the Board benchmark the successes experienced by other school districts not only in the United States but also abroad.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: The current economic climate presents a daunting challenge. Fiscal decision makers must utilize resources wisely. The board should review school board policies and ensure they reflect financial impact and measured outcomes. They must be prudent in evaluating new educational initiatives and programs. They must continue to research all venues from public and private organizations to obtain additional resourcing through grants and partnership programs.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: A good education is one of the engines to recovering from the economic downturn. It is critical that the school board ensures that our schools have the resources necessary to support and enhance student achievement.

The board must assess what programs and policies are effective (measured outcomes) and what is not--then target funds and efforts accordingly.

It must examine economic growth sectors and provide career paths for students to prepare for new jobs and new 21st century careers. The Board must pursue innovative ways to provide opportunity to enrich the educational experience while simultaneously lowering expenditures and eliminating waste.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in the election: My job has required me to have a global perspective, a vision of the future, and skills at long range planning. All these competencies would make me an asset to a modern school board that seeks to prepare children for an unknown future. Also, I have been an active parent engaged in all my children’s schools, their activities, and extracurricular programs and events. My first-hand experience and knowledge of the Tipton County School system, its policies and procedures, my excellent reputation as a quality education advocate, and my own passion for life-long learning and serving make me an excellent choice for school board member.

Candidates in even-numbered school districts are up for re-election this year.

The district 7 seat was vacated with the death of Rodney Eubank.

BELLOW

Continued from Page C15 of this office, including any changes: Help our children get good education. I would like to improve parents’ involvement in our children’s education. Programs to help build character in our children, proper nutrition, exercise and economics.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: Next year we will have to balance the budget without stimulus money we got this year.

We would have to keep the programs which are working and eliminate the ones which are not. If it comes to the point of staff cuts, I would avoid cutting teachers. Teachers are professionals. We need to give them more power in the education of our children.

Please tell us how the county can best

rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: The main problem is with our federal government. Both political parties have caused this economic mess. The federal government should never bail out anyone. Until the federal government quits spending above their means, we will not have economic recovery.

Business cannot expand when they are in competition with the federal government for the money supply.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in the election: I will follow my oath of office and follow the state and federal constitution. I will study both sides of every issue before I vote on it. My views are conservative. I will attend and be active in all meetings of the school board.

Editor’s Note: Grant Shipley, William O. Brooks, Richard Ellis Joyner and Marty Haywood, candidates for this position in varying districts, did not respond to our requests for information and have not been included in this section.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you. I would appreciate your continued support and your vote.

Paid for by friends to Elect Kristie Glass Maxwell, Trustee - Shirley Gay, Treasurer.

Thursday, July 15, 2010 • MEET THE CANDIDATES 2010 • 17

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County Offices MIKE FORBESS Circuit Court Clerk Please give us your background information: Graduated from Munford High school, then graduated from Dyersburg State with an A.S. degree in criminal justice. I am a graduate of the University of Tennessee Institute for Public Service as a Certified Public Administrator. Worked in law enforcement from 1979 until 1994 when I was elected Circuit Court Clerk of Tipton County where I am currently serving in my 16th year.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I have over 31 years experience in the court system through my service in law enforcement and serving the past 16 yrs as Circuit Court Clerk for Tipton county. I am past president of the Tennessee state court clerk’s association and serve on several committees with this organization. I also serve on the board of directors of the County Officials Association of Tennessee.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: I will continue to keep the office up to date with the most current technical equipment available to make sure the citizens of Tipton County are served in a professional manner.

Our office is fully automated and we now also accept on line payments for the conveKRISTIE GLASS MAXWELL Trustee Please give us your background information: Tipton County has been the place I proudly call home since I was born. My parents are Bonnie and the late Lawrence Glass. I am married to Barry Maxwell and we have three children; Kacy, Chelsea, and Lawson.

In the fall, Lawson will begin his 5th grade year at Crestview Middle School. We also have one granddaughter, Rowan, who is almost three years old. I am an active member of the Covington Church of Christ.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: In 1984, I graduated from Covington High School. I obtained a degree in Finance from Freed-Hardeman University in 1988, and completed Banking Schools at Vanderbilt and Louisiana State University in 1996 and 1999, respectively. In 2007, I completed the County Officials Certificate Training Program and obtained the Certified Public Administrator designation through the University of Tennessee.

nience of our constituents.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: We now turn over all past due accounts to a collection company that their sole objective is to collect unpaid court cost and fines with no cost to the taxpayers. This has increased revenues to the county and the state and will continue to do so.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: The people of Tipton County are tough and will bounce back. We have always taken care of each other and will continue to do so. Fortunately, our county has had good leadership in the past and we were able to weather the slow economic time better than many other counties. It has been a struggle and many people are suffering but I feel very positive about the future of our great county.

Please tell us why people should vote for you: I have been very fortunate to serve this great county as their Circuit Court Clerk for the past 16 years. I am proud of the accomplishments of my staff and I and am very proud of our record. Hardly a week goes by that I don’t get a compliment form attorneys that practice in other counties about the courtesy and efficiency of the clerks office in Tipton County. I ask everyone for their complimentary vote and look forward to serving the citizens of this county as their Circuit court Clerk.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: I am excited about our office and its future. Our office is staffed with experienced and serviceminded individuals. It is our goal to serve you in a friendly, helpful, and professional manner. We are always looking for better ways to serve the public with convenient and cost effective ways to pay taxes.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: With this in mind, our satellite office in Munford was opened in 2006. This office was opened with no increase to the budget. It is designed to give taxpayers additional options in paying taxes. We continue to operate this collection site at Munford City Hall on selected days in October, December, and February. With our experienced staff, we have been able to handle our increased volume with the same number of people.

As interest rates have fallen nationally over the last year or so, we will continue to look for safe investments to maximize returns on the county’s idle funds.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashSEE MAXWELL, PAGE C18

JEFF HUFFMAN County Executive Please give us your background information: I am a 1970 Brighton High School graduate and 1975 University of Tennessee graduate. I have been in Tipton County government since Sept. 1, 1986. I am married to Darlene and have two daughters, Brittany, 28 and McKenzie, 15.

I have also been the following: Elected Tipton County commissioner in 1978 and in 1982. Elected Tipton County Mayor in 1986.

Re-elected in 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002, and 2006. Chairman, Tipton County Legislature.

Chairman of the following: Delta Human Resource Agency, Aging Commission of the Mid-South, West Tennessee County Mayors Association, Tipton County Board of Health, Tipton County Banking Committee, Tipton County Emergency Management Agency.

Vice President of the Tennessee County Service Association. Member of the following: Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations, Tennessee County Services Association Board of Directors. Other awards: 1995 Covington Exchange Club Man of the Year. 1998 Dyersburg State Community College Distinguished Service Award. Recipient of the Memphis Area Association of Governments Distinguished Service Award. Member, Tipton Lodge #226. Elder and Congregational Chairman of Brighton Presbyterian Church.

Chairman of HTL-Advantage Industrial Development Authority. Graduate of the University of Tennessee Institute of Public Service Leadership Program. Member of Board of Directors of Tennessee County Service Association Insurance Board.

Member of Dunlap Retirement Home Board of Directors. Member of Governor Bredesen’s Health Care Task Force. Member of Governor Bredesen’s School Energy Efficiency Council, and Bredesen’s Criminal Justice Council.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I served for eight years as a Tipton County Commissioner and 24 years as Tipton County Executive. I have served as President of the Tennessee County Service Association, President of the Tennessee Mayors Association, President of the West Tennessee Mayors Association and Chairman of HTL-Advantage (the three county industrial development authority).

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office, including any changes: The county executive is the chief financial officer of the county and signs all warrants for the General Fund operation of county government. The county executive is the chairman of the county legislative body, signs contracts on behalf of Tipton County government and

plays a vital role in building the county budget each year. The total budget for Tipton County Government in 2009-2010 is $122 million. I will continue to focus the duties of the office on financial responsibility and economic development.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: The key to increasing tax revenue and retail activity is to expand the industrial base. Job creation and expansion are vital to this. The appraised value of all property in Tipton County exceeds $2.5 billion. As the economy recovers and with additional jobs coming (the Unilever announcement and the expansion of Delfield), Tipton County is in a position to take advantage of economic growth and reduce its debt service requirements. As county executive, my approach to local government will continue as in the past: hold the line on property tax rates, look for more efficient ways to operate government, maximize common sense business practices, and focus on economic development.

Please tell us how the county can best rebound from the economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: The primary focus of this office is to do everything possible to improve the quality of life for Tipton Countians. That means being bold in developing approaches to industrial and economic development. West Tennessee lost 3,000 manufacturing jobs in 2008, so it is incumbent on local leaders to do everything to get jobs back. The regional industrial authority I chair consists of Tipton, Lauderdale, and Haywood counties and the county seats and utilities in those areas. This approach is a completely different way of looking at industrial development.

The TVA-certified Megasite near the Tipton-Haywood county line is the number one economic development project for the Tennessee Dept. of Economic and Community Development. The State of Tennessee is investing $22 million in this site.

Expansion of existing industries and the marketing of the Megasite provide a competitive industrial development package for our area.

Tell us why people should vote for you: I have been blessed to have the opportunity to serve the people of Tipton County over the years. I am proud to tell folks where I am from and who I represent. The people of Tipton County have been good to me and I have tried to represent the citizens of this county in a professional and ethical manner. I have worked hard to try and find the right balance between budgetary restraint and the demands of a growing county. This county has strong fund reserves, a remarkable school system, a law enforcement agency that aggressively combats crime, and public officials that are thoughtful and conscientious. I am proud to serve the people of Tipton County. I would appreciate your vote on August 5.

18 • Thursday, July 15, 2010 • MEET THE CANDIDATES 2010

www.covingtonleader.com

County Offices CLAUDIA PEELER Register of Deeds Please give us your background information: I am a life-long resident of Tipton County. I am married to Rick Peeler and we have three children, Chassity McClanahan of Waverly, Tenn., Chase Peeler of Smyrna and Claire Peeler, who is attending the University of Tennessee in Martin. I am a member of Holly Grove Cumberland Presbyterian Church and the Covington Exchange Club where I am the program chairman. I have been serving as your Register of Deeds since August 2006 and prior to becoming register I worked as a deputy register of 12 years.

Please give us your qualifications for this office: I feel that my 16 years of service have prepared me to serve in this capacity. Since becoming register, I have earned my Certification for public administration through the University of Tennessee, County Technical Assistance Service program. In order to earn this certificate, I have complete 60 hours of classroom instruction as well as

a 20-hour, three day training event. Over the past four years, I have had the opportunity to attend the West Tennessee register’s meetings as well as the yearly statewide register’s meetings. Through these meeting I have been able to keep up with the changing state laws and also learn from other register’s experiences in their offices.

Please tell us your plans for the future of this office and any changes: My goal for the next four years is to have all our books back scanned to 1971. After these books are back scanned, we will begin the tedious process of indexing each of these documents in the computer. Along with the back scanning and back indexing, we are looking at difference options for making this office a “paperless” office.

Please tell us how you plan to increase county revenues and hold down expenses: The register’s office collects fees mandated by the state for recording real estate documents. We then turn our collected money over to the general funds every month.

Even though the decline of the economy has affected our revenue, I am proud to say that our office is self-sufficient and continues to contribute money to the general funds in excess of our budgeted expenses.

Please tell us how the county can best

rebound from economic downturn and keep moving forward in a positive fashion: Economically speaking, the county is similar to any other small business and must focus on the basic principals of accounting.

On the revenue side of the budget we must continue to look for ways to prepare our county for economic growth. I believe education is a major factor in preparing a workforce that will attract industry to this area.

Also, we must encourage Tipton Countians to shop at home. Sales tax revenue is a key factor in sustaining the county’s budget. On

the expense side of the ledger, we have to be conservative, yet we must be able to provide the quality of life that our citizens expect and deserve. We have great leadership in Tipton County and I am confident that our county will keep moving forward.

Please tell us why people should vote for you: I am so thankful to be unopposed in this year’s election. My staff and I maintain a highly proficient and innovative office. We strive to serve the people in Tipton County in a courteous, helpful and efficient manner.

MAXWELL

this rebounding endeavor.

Please tell us why people should vote for you in the election: I am so thankful for the opportunity to serve the many fine people of Tipton County. Seeing all of you in the office and trying to do my best to help you has been such a joy. I sincerely want to do a good job and have tried to accommodate all of you to the best of my ability. My desire to serve you continues and I would appreciate your vote and your support for another term.

Continued from Page C17 ion: As collecting property taxes is one of our major responsibilities, our staff has been promoting our partial payment plan.

This plan allows a person or a company to divide their taxes into four payments or less.

It is our goal to be as flexible as possible during these difficult economic times.

Our county is blessed with excellent leadership and we plan to give quality service, assistance, and support as they lead us in

A questionnaire was submitted by Tipton County Sheriff Pancho Chumley was submitted and appears in page A5 of today’s edition.

ELECT JOHNNY

BURLISON COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 3 Paid for by Johnny Burlison

Thursday, July 15, 2010 • MEET THE CANDIDATES 2010 • 19

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RE-ELECT

Dale W. Smith County Commissioner District 9

Dear fellow taxpayers of District # 9, I want to take this time to thank you for allowing me to serve you for the past 4 years as your county commissioner and I look forward to serving you in the next 4 years. This past 4 years has been without a doubt the biggest roller-coaster ride our county has ever seen and as the great recession of 2007-2010 hopefully begins to wind down most us feel we are going in a different direction, but too often, it’s reverse. This downturn has been felt all over the world, and of course Tipton County was not spared this time, as in years past. We felt the pain just as the rest of the state and the country, but the one constant that has helped us keep our heads up, our finances strong, our county solvent, is the fact we have always been physically responsible, so we did not have to lay off county workers, cut their hours or pay as did many of our neighbors. We continue to work on the principal of not spending money that we don’t have, so when troubling times like the ones we are in now come, we can have the funds to see us through.

While these past 2 years the economy has been in a downturn, we have completed several major projects in Tipton County over the past 4 years. We opened a new elementary school in Atoka, we added on to the existing Health Department, we completed work on 25 bridges in our county, we continued to have a successful asphalt program, we added part-time county offices in South Tipton County, a new park is in the planning stage beside Drummonds elementary school, we have purchased additional county land for future expansion, and we increased the Sheriff’s Department overall budget by 35.45%. This is just a small sampling of the projects that went on in the last 4 years, but the important thing is, that we did them without a tax increase.

As a fellow taxpayer I will never vote on a budget that is not based on our current tax rate. I pledge to continue to work with the County Executive, the School Board, and the Mayors throughout the county to enhance our economic development so that we can position our county for new industry and good paying jobs.

I remain, as always, a proud fellow taxpayer in Tipton County.

Sincerely, Dale W. Smith County Commissioner District # 9 Office 901 837 7020 Home 901 837 4435 Paid for by the Committee to Re-Elect Dale Smith, Commissioner District 9

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20 • Thursday, July 15, 2010 • MEET THE CANDIDATES 2010

www.covingtonleader.com

ote Mary

Gaither

“I am Mary Gaither and I am committed to carry on the highest quality of customer service to the citizens of Tipton County. I will continue to be sensitive to your needs and to strive toward creating methods to better serve you.”

County Clerk

“Proven Leadership & Experience” Paid for by Friends to Elect Mary Gaither for County Clerk, Kathy McMahan, Treasurer

PROVEN LEADER Professional, Considerate, Trustworthy A real “How can I help you ” personality In 1994 when Pam Deen was elected as Tipton County Clerk, she chose Mary Gaither to be her Administrative Assistant.

She has entrusted Mary with the exclusive responsibilities and duties pertaining to the management of the County Clerk’s office.

Now that Pam Deen has decided to retire, let’s join together and elect Mary Gaither.

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Milestones for Tipton County Mary was responsible for the negotiations and implementations of the computer systems into the operations including: • Payment by credit cards • Online renewals

Experienced and Accomplished • 22 Total years in County Government • 17 years with Tipton Co. Clerk’s Office see Co-Workers supporting comments at

www.marygaitherforcountyclerk.com

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