Decision 2014

Decision2014

BATTLE for the DISTRICT featuring candidates for the offices of State House of representatives public defender, district attorney general, Tipton county executive, county commissioners, general sessions judge, constable, and others on the august 2014 ballot in tipton county, tennessee A supplement to The Leader Thursday, July 24, 2014

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We encourage – and we expect – you to make informed e o c t e g e u y a t r g n e S M A a n o V A la C e u t A l o n nC e r i l o e P r e a S r e t h e a re ale tion heading on C and ce to xterm Recreabefore nd T Estat ffee D re Sto . Posta ograph the nd Thlike eal Est ip Par ift/Reins the coming help s. Tipt weeks t R Meat a Agent Real hip Park/Pla aitress U.S rist Furnitu Burgers Co edit Union E r/Gydecisions m Thrpolls ento Meat a we’d r Phot tiqto eM g h e e g s b u e A n r a n o s r e m i W lo e t r e h t s / t t t i C a o F lu r W u o clear.h Oil C P choices Cu B uffe Est make more Cen r your ank/ e to l e n s B y c a s a B al Esta Place to W fficial Waite r Covering e m e lr t la li ial Wa s s e o n a y R P a t a t t o i w f fi I r li r f e ts /J r F aci o ork k tG ar W weenhave reak O d O c F lo reaincluded ende with e C W t T L oriesspecial c o r supplement a Q&A the candidates who t e e le t essthis g e to Wor ian/Elected pliances F lo Biscuits B sted Living F Salon Barbe t Control Pe g AccIn z E n a c / ro Pla nces ortg ire Cetheir ticianto Q in tic es ssi Ap air eam/F Fquestionnaires. r Treturn Polimade chool effort Applia BBQ irm M rivate SEvery epaito cecontact dicwas ic Poli et Produce ker y Bar BB Complex A tometrist H g & A/C P Men’s Cloth odychose Ice Crrespective u e w R a d n m o L e a ar r P r k P B a r c n l B i e t i a p k g Ch er P byerpostal scapAugust ker y – ent Co and Schooballot ghtphone, marketmail ndthe permar n Cuisine B es Apartmen ian Nurse O leaner Heat ren’s Clothin o Parts Auto ies each aon Friedcandidate e–fiby e Baemail gh2014 L i r p n i i u m H s F S t i m r r a r u l r h t C i i a c e c e o ld F i s u r C i p tF fic with the n cho you, the fvoter, anenattempt to provide to Stoinformationiarequired es Aan ant A Tea Sandw acility Phys Ser vice Dr y lothing Chi alesman A $10 French Invein hysic ichcast stm iddle S forcement O provement staurant As C y Sandw nic/Facility P ome er l M ar S er ic/F n eet ’s o d n a m m a C n n e w o n I li p e informed vote. e o S E h R t r e T U C c s m m le d t s l w u S o r o m a a k st Cli wee Ho e La Aroun or tchanged Dinne entar y mplo yebasic tant C Medic uto De tore W rance C ant Cu Sto edical Doing tso enterwe All-altered eaks S aany n editing, have not answers.

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Decision 2014 - August edition

Your votes?

They counted.

Meet the 2014 winners in our annual Best of the Best publication on Aug. 14.

(Advertisers, this is a popular publication, perfect for your ad! Call 476-7116 to reserve your spot today.)

T

L

Encouraging informed decisions

Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition • 3

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state House of Representatives - Dist. 81

Rory Bricco Challenger, (R-Covington) 1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I am a husband of 34 years with three children and five grandchildren. I currently work for Arkema, Inc. as pperations manager. I am working with my executive management team on a succession plan to transition from Operations Manager into a technical advisory role by the end of September. I am a member of First Baptist Church, the Tipton County Republican Party (where I am the immediate past chairman and past treasurer), and an associate member of the Tipton County Republican Women. I served as treasurer for Celebration of Service and Sacrifice (C.O.S.S.) to bring the Vietnam Memorial Wall to Tipton County Oct. 2327 of 2013. I host “The Truth Project” at various churches and study groups in different communities.

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

I am qualified because I have worked with people from all over the world and all walks of life. I work with government agencies at the local, state, and national levels to ensure my business is in compliance with all regulatory certifications that govern the workplace. In my 14 years as operations manager we have remained successful without laying off one employee in the face of the worst economic downturn in my lifetime. My goal is one of continuous improvement in all that I do. Working together we will find ways to build a brighter future.

I feel that my proven track record of success qualifies me as the better candidate.

3. Why are you running?

In my many years of work I have learned what it takes to make great things happen. I want to apply winning strategies of proven success while serving the citizens of our county and state. I want to bring people together to create a shared

Re-elect Sheriff

J.t. ‘Pancho’ chumley

vision so compelling that everyone in this county will want to be a part of it.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

I will be accessible and capable of being a conduit through which the citizens can connect with their government. I am committed to guarding the public trust and I am well equipped to engage the citizens of our county in efforts to build a better future for ourselves and for future generations. I have a passion for working for the success of others over and above my own self interests.

This, my fellow citizens, is the secret to success.

By focusing on available resources within the county I would look for ways to increase employment opportunities.

5. You and your opponent both Republicans and the winner of the August primary, because no Democrat is running, will take the seat. The public generally lumps members of the same party together, even if they’re different, so what sets you apart? In what ideological ways are you two the same? What makes you the better candidate?

My highly-successful business background, which includes working very closely with people from all over the world, and at almost every socioeconomic level, in a multifaceted fast paced environment is what sets me apart from my opponent. I make it a point to backSee BRICCO, page 5

tHANK YOU FOR YOUR VOte AND SUPPORt!

Paid for by the Committee to Elect J.T. ‘Pancho’ Chumley, Sheriff, M.O. Eckel III, Treasurer.

4 • Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition

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state House of Representatives - Dist. 81

Debra Moody Incumbent, (R-Covington) 1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

Married to Terry for 35 years, 4 children, stay at home mom, Member of Bellevue Baptist Church (Teaches Women’s Class), Board of Director Confidential Care (Treasure / Chairman), Community Bible Study, Tipton County Anti-Drug Coalition, NRA, We the People, Tipton County Republican Party (Chairman), Tri-County Republican Women, Disabled American Veterans (DAV),Volunteer at VA Hospital, Tennessee State Guard (2nd Lieutenant), Tennessee Right to Life.

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

As a one-income family, we lived within our means and budget. If we, as families do this, I believe the government should do this also. That’s why I supported a balanced budget without raising taxes.

I’ve always been involved in the community. Over the years, I have developed good working relationships with local elected officials, law enforcement personnel, and small business owners.

Having volunteered in many political campaigns, I learned the value of conservative grass roots involvement. I am a conservative first, and then a Republican. I believe in the Judeo-Christian values as the foundation of our society.

3. Why are you running?

I want to take Tipton County Conservative Values and principles to Nashville.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

When I ran two years ago, I ran on a platform of smaller government, less regulations and lower taxes. I kept my word by voting for a balanced budget with no new taxes, supported local deci-

sion making in our schools and opposed Common Core. I also ran as a strong Second Amendment supporter. I carried gun legislation that strengthened the right of law abiding Tennesseans to carry a gun in their vehicle (HB1483).

Because of my voting record, the American Conservative Union presented me with the Defender of Liberty Award.

Also, Americans for Prosperity recognized me by presenting me with the House of Prosperity Award. I believe government’s role is to work alongside us, not to hinder us. Government is not the solution, it’s the problem. When government gets out of the way, then our residents have more freedom to pursue the American dream. To continue what I started by reducing the size and intrusiveness of the government.

5. You and your opponent both Republicans and the winner of the August primary, because no Democrat is running, will take the seat. The public generally lumps members of the same party together, even if they’re different, so what sets you apart? In what ideological ways are you two the same? What makes you the better candidate?

My years of involvement in service to our community have demonstrated that I will act on what I believe. We both profess to be pro-life, but my involvement (time and money) proves that I truly am. We both profess to be second amendment advocates, but then again I’ve done something about it. I was the prime sponsor of pro-gun legislation that was signed into law this summer.

See Moody, page 5

Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition • 5

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circuit court judge, 25th dist., Pt. II

chancellor, 25th dist., pt. II

Joe H.Walker Incumbent

Martha B. Brasfield Incumbent

It has been a privilege to serve as Circuit Judge and I seek your vote to continue in that service. I graduated from public schools in Lauderdale County and Rhodes College, before entering the U. S. Army, where I served with the 23rd Infantry in I Corps Vietnam, and was awarded the Bronze Star and Army Commendation, twice. I attended Law School on the GI Bill, and served as Associate Editor of the Law Review.

After graduation, I practiced law for several years with my father in Ripley. I have served as City Judge, Chancellor, and for three terms as Circuit Judge. I am married with children and grandchildren, a member of

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family - spouse and children, if any - as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I am a lifetime resident of Tipton County. My parents were the late Addison and Rebecca Bringle. I was married to the late Duke H. Brasfield until his death in 2010. I have three children: Ben Brasfield, Sara Brasfield Carter (who is married to Will Carter) and Charles Brasfield (who is married to the former Meredith Price). I currently serve as Chancellor, Part II, in the 25th Judicial District. I attend the First United Methodist Church of Covington, where I am actively involved in the H.O.P.E. Sunday School Class, the United Methodist Women, the food pantry, and the Samaritan Fund. I support Dyersburg State Community College and the Carl Perkins Center. I am a member of the Review Book Club, which sponsors an English scholarship. In 2014, I worked at the Lion’s Club Pancake Breakfast.

First Baptist Church and various civic groups. Thank you for the opportunity to continue serving.

BRICCO, Continued from page 3 burner my priorities in order to assist others. I seek to create an atmosphere where people are free to bring the best they have to the table.

I am every bit the conservative my opponent claims to be and more. I am pro-life, pro-family, pro-self defense, and a Constitutional conservative. I am a fierce defender of liberty and wholeheartedly believe our freedom must be guarded.

MOODY, Continued from page 4 Also, I have been a hand gun permit holder since 2009. We both profess opposition to Common Core. However, I was one of two to vote to repeal Common Core in Sub-committee. I then voted to halt further implementation of Common Core in 2015. This passed in both the House and Senate, then the Governor signed it into law. We both claim to be business friendly. Because of my voting to limit business regulations, I was endorsed by the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB). I work for you, the people of Tipton County. I’m asking you to rehire me by voting for me in the Republican Primary on Aug. 7.

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

I have served the people of the 25th Judicial District as a Chancery Court Judge since Sept. 1, 1998. I served as the Commissioner for the Tennessee Claims Commission, Western Division, from July 1987 to Sept. 1, 1998. My husband and I worked together in our law office from April 1977 to July 1, 1987. I taught at Covington High School from September 1970 until December 1972, when I resigned to attend the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis.

3. Why are you running?

I look upon myself not so much as a public employee but a public servant.

Everyone who appears before me in Chancery Court has a problem of some sort. Because jury trials in Chancery Court are rare, my job requires me to make decisions that often seriously impact individual lives. It is important to me that everyone who appears before me receives a fair and impartial hearing. It is important to me to be in court on time and to pay close attention to the attorneys and their clients so that I can make correct decisions.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

I am a conscientious public servant with 27 years of judicial experience. I also feel that my involvement with the outreach programs of the First United Methodist Church - the food pantry and the Samaritan fund - as well as my activities with Dyersburg State Community College help to increase the quality of life for Tipton County residents. I hope to serve the people of the 25th Judicial District for another eight years.

Your future depends on a good decision.

vote WISELY. Early voting begins July 18 // Election Day is August 7

6 • Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition

www.covingtonleader.com

public defender, 25th dist.

Bo Burk Bo Burk Challenger, Tipton County

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

My name is Bo Burk. I am a candidate for Public Defender. I live in Covington, Tennessee. I was born and raised in Tipton County. I graduated from Munford High School. I am married to Kathleen Glass Burk, daughter of Charles and Judy Glass of Covington.

Kathleen and I attend First United Methodist Church of Covington. Kathleen sings in our church’s praise and we lead a weekly bible study. I also volunteer at the Food Pantry and Carl Perkins Center. My parents are Billy and Evelyn Burk of Munford. My father is a retired Memphis firefighter and my mother is a retired Tipton County postmaster. My sister Kim Gramling is a Tipton County first grade school teacher. As you see, I come from a family of public servants. I have worked as an assistant district attorney for the past seven years in Tipton County, serving in all five counties while in this office.

My name is Bo Burk. I am a candidate for Public Defender. I live in Covington, Tennessee. I was born and raised in Tipton County. I than incarceration, such as drug court treatment, mental health counseling, management and intensive probagraduated from Munford Highanger School. tion. I will use all resources to get people help when possible to ultimately save tax payers and victims. I have gained knowledge of how to communicate with victims and have built relationships that will be crucial in order to be an effective Public Defender. Many defense attorneys feel these two offices should be adversarial, but I believe there should be a mutual respect for each other’s position regarding our moral and ethical duty. I know I will be in a position to make arguments for people who are guilty. My goal will be to fulfill my legal and ethical oath; knowing when to fight and when to utilize my relationships because it is in the best interest of my client and the taxpayer. Sometimes it is not best to go through a lengthy trial when the facts cannot be disputed. Such as a case involving a confession or a video of the crime. That is when I can communicate in an effective way with the opposite side, and that is why relationships are key. What makes me the best candidate?

Having been a district attorney, I know their next move and I also know what prosecutors are looking for during plea negotiations. I have worked in this district for seven years and know how the docket works and understand what the judge expects from defendants. I believe this knowledge and those relationships will help defendants and save tax dollars by reaching fair conclusions using fewer resources.

I am married to Kathleen Glass Burk, daughter of Charles and Judy Glass. My parents are Billy and Evelyn Burk. My father is a retired Memphis firefighter and my mother is a retired Tipton County postmaster. My sister Kim Gramling is a 2. What, do you believe, are your qualiTipton County grade school teacher. As you fications for first this office?

What makes you the best candidate? see, I come from of public servants.

I have served inaallfamily five counties while in the District Attorney’s Office. In the past seven years,I have handled more criminal cases than any other attorney in the state of Tennessee. I have handled trials from theft to first degree murder.

I am experienced and qualified to be your next Public a Defender. I have also been a leader of the District Attorney’s Drug Task Force. I hope to continue his fight on drugs with programs directed towards our youth. In the past seven years, I have built relationships with law enforcement and the District Attorney’s Office. Advising and defending clients best interest realizing sometimes it is in their best interest to work out a plea agreement which saves taxpayers from a trial and ensures the client doesn’t get harsh sentence, which is why relationships with all are important, finding solutions to address criminal activity other

I have worked as an assistant district attorney for the past seven years in Tipton County. I have served in all five counties while in this office.

I have handled over 500 criminal cases each month. I have handled trials from theft to first degree murder. I am experienced and qualified to be your next Public Defender.

See BURK, page 7

Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition • 7

www.covingtonleader.com

BURK, Continued from page 6 3. Why are you running?

I want to serve the people of the county in which I grew up and to provide a safe and healthy place to live, learn, and work.

To contribute towards these objectives, it would be my mission as the Public Defender to protect and defend the rights of our indigent clients through effective, vigorous, zealous, compassionate, ethical and creative legal advocacy. The Office of the Public Defender, as guardians of liberty, ensures that the accused of today and tomorrow are given the fundamental protection of the United States Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. My wife and I are about to bring a child into this world, and I want to ensure that they grow up in a safe community that treats everyone equally.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

I became an Assistant District Attorney because I hated crime, and I’m running for Public Defender because I hate crime even more now. I believe that there are solutions to help prevent crime; it is better to be proactive than reactive when it comes to crime. I would like to get the D.A.R.E. program back in the public school system to help children become aware of how destructive drug use can become. I would also use outreach programs for the youth to ensure our children are not recruited into gangs.

I believe the Public Defender should defend the community by cutting down on crime before it happens, and rehabilitating the defendants who commit crime.

I believe Drug Courts are a solution for

those in the criminal justice system who commit crime because of an addiction problem. We have to fix the addiction or the defendant will continue commit crimes to obtain illegal substances.

5. While many people in the county have paid attention to this race for its opposition – two local candidates going head-to-head against someone from a different county – not many voters expect to use your services and, therefore, do not deem this an important race.

What makes this race important to Tipton County?

It’s true that most will never need the Public Defender, but we are all potential victims of crime. Tipton County needs a Public Defender that they can be proud of, and not an attorney that has a win at all cost mentality. I want to ensure that each defendant has a fair trial. However, a lawyer, defending an

accused person, ought not to lie, hide or destroy documents, twist and distort evidence, or obscure the truth. My office will have integrity and will be an office Tipton County will be proud to call its own. 6. The three of you have varying levels of experience in defending cases; how important is defense experience to this office? I have only handled criminal cases. Everyday I’m either in a criminal courtroom or preparing for court. In my current position, I was assigned cases requiring me to defend victims. As public defender I will work diligently to defend the defendant while upholding their constitutional rights just as I have defended victims for the past 7 years while upholding their constitutional rights. I will defend every case I am given in a moral and ethical way. My oath is the most important aspect in my legal career and I will honor that oath.

Nominating petitions for the November elections are due by noon on August 21.

The last day to register to vote in the November 2014 elections is October 6.

VOTE JEFF MASON County Commissioner District 3

Honest, Hard-Working, Successful Businessman Fully Supports Local Law Enforcement Efforts Willing to Work with ALL Districts Paid for by Jeff Mason.

8 • Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition

www.covingtonleader.com

public defender, 25th dist.

Shana Johnson Challenger, Fayette County 1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family-spouse and children, if any-as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I am 51 years old and have lived in Tennessee for over 30 years. I have been licensed to practice law in Tennessee since April 15, 1989 - over 25 years. I have been employed at the District Public Defender’s Office for 23-plus years and have been the Senior Assistant District Public Defender for over 19 years. I am married to Jeff Johnson, a maintenance mechanic at Nike Northridge. We are the parents of two children: Trent (21) and Charleston (16). Trent is a medic in the Army National Guard and an EMT. Charleston is a junior in high school. I am a life long member of the United Methodist Church and am an active member of Somerville FUMC. I have served as a Sunday school teacher, member of the Handbell Choir, director of the nursery, member of Safe Sanctuary Committee, member of the Finance Committee and in various other positions. I am a member of the Chamber of Commerce in each of the five counties in our district. I am a member of the local non-profit theater group in Fayette County STAR, Inc. I am a member of the Hardeman County Arts Council.

I am a member of the Fayette County Livestock Association. I am a volunteer and financial supporter of several local animal rescue organizations. I am personally involved with Relay for Life, Imagination Library and various other civic groups.

2. What do you believe are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

Being a public defender is what I do - it has been my life’s call and it is my career. I know this job better than anyone in or out of the office in this district with the exception of the current Public Defender Gary Antrican. I have been em-

An accused has usually come to be in the system a result of some action or activity on his or her part. I will continue to serve the taxpayers by assuring that the duties of this office are carried out in accordance with the mandates of the Tennessee and United States Constitutions both efficiently and economically..

ployed in this office - the District Public Defender’s Office - for 23-plus years. I have been the Senior Assistant District Public Defender for over 19 years. I have as an Assistant District Public Defender “defended” cases in all five counties of this district and in all courts including the Criminal Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court. I have had numerous jury trials in “all” five counties. I have tried numerous murder cases in each county. I have handled thousands of cases from juvenile to death penalty. I am the only candidate with death penalty experience. I have an established working relationship in each county with the court personnel, the law enforcement, the District Attorney’s Office and other attorneys. I have an excellent working relationship with the District Public Defender Conference in Nashville. As Senior Assistant District Public Defender I have handled the administrative duties of this office, the daily supervision of the staff, and representation issues. I have a proven record of being a dedicated and experienced public defender staff member. I have dedicated my career to this position and proven myself capable, dedicated and qualified. Make no mistake about this position defending an indigent criminally accused individual is in no way similar to prosecuting cases on behalf of a victim. A victim finds him or herself in the criminal justice system through no fault of their own and they need “to be represented” not defended.

3. Why are you running?

As I stated in my answer to the previous question, this is what I do. This is my calling. This has been my life’s work. I have dedicated my career to defending the individuals in this district who cannot afford an attorney. I am dedicated to this work - and I am good at my job.

I have never abandoned this cause to seek higher pay nor a more prestigious position. I have never sought to pursue another position where I would have to make a fundamental change in philosophy. This is what I do - I am a Public Defender.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

The people of Tipton County should vote for me because I am the qualified candidate. It is what I do. If you were a boss and were interviewing a potential employee you would want the most qualified, the person with the most training for that “specific” position, and a person dedicated to your company.

That is me as a public defender. This is who I am. There will be no learning period for me as far as the daily operations of the office, what can and cannot be done by the office. I know the budget and I am familiar with the procedures and mandates which must be strictly followed when working with the Public Defender Conference on budgetary issues. Just as Mr. Antrican has done over the past 25 years I will conscientiously administer the duties of Public Defender. I will continue to have an educated, hardworking, dedicated staff. I would continue to work with the court in the establishment of programs such as drug court, networking with rehab facilities and mental health agencies in order to assist those individuals in the system

who have those issues. I will supervise the office and assure that not only the constitutional mandates are met but that those whose liberty is placed in our hands have representation equal to that of those fortunate enough to hire private counsel. 5. While many people in the county have paid attention to this race for its opposition-two local candidates going head-to-head against someone from a different county - not many voters expect to use your services and therefore, do not deem this an important race.

What makes this race important to Tipton County? The Public Defender race in Tipton County is important because in this district Tipton County has the highest number of cases handled by the Public Defender’s Office. It is therefore very important to maintain a hardworking, knowledgeable and dedicated staff. Inexperience and inefficiency in this office, especially in Tipton County, will cause unnecessary delays in the handling of cases, unnecessary appeals, complaints regarding representation and a burden on the courts and waste of taxpayer funds. 6. The three of you have varying levels of experience in defending cases; how important is defense experience to this office? Defense experience is the most important element of this position. The District Public Defender is not only an administrator of the office but must know how to defend a case. The District Public Defender must know how to evaluate the ability of other attorneys to defend a criminal case in order to hire top notch assistants.

As I stated earlier “make no mistake about this position defending an indigent criminally accused individual is in no way similar to prosecuting cases on behalf of a victim. A victim finds him or herself in the criminal justice system through no fault of their own and they need “to be represented,” not defended.

An accused has usually come to be in the system a result of some action or activity on his or her part.” If you have a brain tumor would you want a general practitioner or a specialist? If you are accused of committing a crime or someone you love is accused of committing a crime then you want an experienced defense attorney.

Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition • 9

www.covingtonleader.com

public defender, 25th dist.

Lyle Jones Challenger, Tipton County 1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family-spouse and children, if any-as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I grew up in the Southwestern United States. My dad was a Southern Baptist missionary involved in church planting operations. I joined the Marines right out of high school and spent 12 years on active duty. Upon my return from Somalia in 1993, my wife and I re-evaluated where our lives were taking us, and after prayerful consideration, left active duty to further our education.

I worked my way through college and law school at Arizona State University, while I continued my military service in the Army National Guard. After my return from Operation Iraqi Freedom, Julie was offered a position at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and we felt led to move to Tennessee. We chose Tipton County because of the excellent school system.

Julie and I have three adult children, and we also finished raising my niece when my sister and brother-in-law passed away. Our oldest daughter, Maegan Traynom, graduated from high school in Arizona. Our other children - Caitlin Metz, Ryan Jones and Rachel Wallis graduated from Brighton High. Mae-

gan, Caitlin and Ryan are all graduates of the University of Memphis. Rachel is an entering freshman this year. Julie and I, along with my parents, attend Gateway Baptist Church in Atoka. I practice law in Covington with Brasfield and Brasfield, and currently serve as the Juvenile Magistrate of Tipton County.

2. What do you believe are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

I currently practice criminal defense. I’ve taken hundreds of hours of specialized training in the field. I am qualified to practice in every court in the state, and to handle every type of criminal case, including capital cases. Since I’ve moved to Tennessee, I’ve defended thousands of cases, and tried dozens. I have presented

to other lawyers as an expert in criminal defense, and have served as a consultant in juvenile justice cases. I provide effective representation to all clients, and believe that the protections afforded by our Constitution apply to everyone.

The Public Defender supervises and oversees indigent defense throughout the five county district. My leadership and management skills, combined with my defense experience and passion for service, make me the best candidate for the office.

• When I took the oath to support and defend the Constitution, I never envisioned it to mean practicing criminal defense. I was short-sighted. The right to counsel found in our Constitution means nothing unless it also means the right to the effective assistance of counsel. I was led to run for this office so that I could continue to stand for the Constitution by standing for the citizens of this district.

3. Why are you running?

When the overall qualifications for this office are looked at, I am the most qualified for the job. It takes more than just defense experience, and I bring more to the table than just my considerable experience as a defense lawyer. I am an adjunct professor of criminal justice at UT-Martin’s Ripley Campus. I am the serving Juvenile Magistrate of Tipton County. I have the leadership and management skills honed over two plus decades of military service. I care deeply about the people I represent.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

The public defender’s race is indeed important to Tipton County. While most of the readers will never need the services of a defense attorney, much less the services of an appointed defense attorney, it is important that they realize that the Public Defender stands as the ultimate guardian of the Constitutional rights of all. The Public Defender is the last champion of liberty, defending not just innocent people who have been wrongly accused, or preserving the due process rights of the guilty, but stands as a shield between the might of the state and the accused, and by so standing, stands as a defender of all of our rights.

It is important to keep in mind that the Public Defender is not going to be the star player in the courtroom. Leadership and management skills are extremely important. Having said that, experience as a defense attorney is absolutely essential for the position of supervising indigent defense throughout the district. There is a distinct and different mindset to defense law. There are different motions and procedures to follow. The attorney/client relationship is of a different nature. The Constitutional duty and burden of representation is also completely different. The qualifications for the office should include experience as a defense lawyer, and continuing education as a defense lawyer as well.

VOTE.

Let your voice be heard.

AUGUST 7 // NOVEMBER 4

10 • Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition

www.covingtonleader.com

district attorney general, 25th dist.

Mike Dunavant Incumbent, Tipton County 1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I am 43 years old and a native of Ripley, Tenn. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from University of Tennessee at Knoxville, and a Doctor of Jurisprudence Degree with honors from University of Mississippi at Oxford.

Prior to my election in 2006, I engaged in the private practice of law for 11 years, primarily in criminal defense, during which time I was “Death Certified” by the Tennessee Supreme Court to handle capital cases. I have 19 total years experience practicing law, including the last eight years as your District Attorney General. I currently serve on the Executive, Legislative, Justice & Professionalism, and Attorney General Liaison committees of the Tennessee District Attorneys General Conference.

I am a member of the Anti-Drug Coalition of Tipton County; a member of the Covington Rotary Club; a member of the Advisory Board of Directors of the Lauderdale County Carl Perkins Child Advocacy Center; a member of the Tennessee Joint Task Force on Children’s Justice & Child Sexual Abuse; a member and former Chairman of the Tennessee Public Safety Coalition; a member of the Sovereign Citizen Working Group of the Tennessee Department of Homeland Security; and a member of the Tennessee Medical Examiner Advisory Council. I live in Atoka with my wife, Marianne, and our 11 year-old son, Hutch, and we are members of the Covington First Baptist Church.

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

I am uniquely qualified because I am proud of my good record of service for the past eight years. Since 2006, I have worked to develop various programs which serve the interests of public safety. In 2007, I reorganized and established the 25th Judicial District

All of these initiatives have served and will continue to serve and protect the people of the 25th Judicial District, and that makes me the best candidate for re-election as District Attorney.

Drug Task Force, which includes a Highway Interdiction Unit in Fayette County, and a DTF Agent assigned to the DEA Task Force in West Tennessee. In 2008, I assumed the responsibility for child support enforcement in this district, and established a new Child Support division, with offices located in Covington and Bolivar. Since that time, DHS Monthly Performance Measures Reports indicated on more than one occasion that the 25th Judicial District ranked first in the entire state among all judicial districts in the collection of past due child support arrearages; has ranked in the top one-third of all judicial districts in the collection of current child support obligations; and has shown marked improvement and increase in percentage of cases with child support orders and paternity establishment percentages. Also in 2008, I created a DUI Prosecution Unit, and as a result, there has been a dramatic increase in DUI conviction rates, as well as a reduction in the percentage of alcohol related traffic fatalities. In 2009, I created a Domestic Violence Prosecution Unit that has served Tipton County. I have provided public education programs to advise of the dangers of methamphetamine use and manufacture, through the “Meth is Death” campaign; the “What’s the Rush?” program, which advises young people about the legal and financial consequences of becoming a teen parent; and the “Deceptive Danger” initiative, which warns of the dangers of prescription and synthetic drug abuse.

3. Why are you running?

I am running for re-election District Attorney because I want to continue to serve the interests of justice and promote public safety by leading this office in our ongoing efforts to hold the guilty accountable while protecting the innocent. I have developed good working relationships with law enforcement and court personnel across the district, and I want to continue to be a law enforcement leader and use the resources of the District Attorney’s office to combat emerging and repeat criminal activity in new, aggressive, and collaborative ways. I am running because I care deeply about the safety and security of the people of this district, and I want to continue to serve to make all communities of the district a safe place to live, work, and raise a family.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

As a contiguous county to Memphis and Shelby County, Tipton County continues to experience significant growth in many areas. As a result of that population shift, and more aggressive and effective law enforcement, our criminal caseload in Tipton County has also grown. In order to increase the quality of life for the residents of Tipton County, we in the District Attorney’s office must meet the new and increased criminal activity with smart and aggressive approaches that are cost-effective. We must continue to work with local law enforcement to be properly trained and prepared for any incidents of violence or illegal drugs in our school systems. We will work with those in the Court system and other professionals to establish a Drug Court program in Tipton County to identify, treat, supervise, and rehabilitate nonviolent drug offenders who suffer from drug dependency, in order to promote cost-effective addiction recovery and success. Finally, we will be sensitive to

the unique challenges of our veteran population, in order to address cases of criminal conduct directly related to their prior military service.

5. What, in your opinion, makes a great district attorney? How will you work to promote the peace and dignity of the State of Tennessee and prosecute those who are accused of violating the law?

A great district attorney has the responsibility to be a minister of justice whose duty is to seek justice rather than merely to advocate for the State’s victory in conviction at any given cost.

A great District Attorney has an innate sensitivity to fair play and sportsmanship, and is an effective prosecutor who tempers zeal with human kindness, who seeks truth and not factional purposes, and who approaches his task with humility. Throughout my eight years of service as your district attorney, I believe that I have embodied these ideals, both in the substance and spirit of my work.

To promote the peace and dignity of the citizens of the State of Tennessee, I will continue to work to accomplish justice throughout the district, in order to achieve the following goals of criminal prosecution which promote public safety: • Incapacitation of violent, sexual, and repeat offenders, including any opportunities to address the root causes of criminal activity, such as substance abuse/addiction, mental illness, and anger or medication management.

• Deterrence of future criminal activity, including proactive education of the public about the dangers of substance abuse, and the consequences of criminal conduct and teen pregnancy/paternity.

• Personal justice for victims of crime, including the right to be treated with dignity and respect, and the right to be notified of and heard at all criminal proceedings.

6. Do you think, in the eight years you’ve been district attorney, you’ve been as tough on offenders (both accused and convicted) as you intended to be? If re-elected, what would you do differently? The same?

I believe that we have been appropriately aggressive and yet constitutionSee DUNAVANT, page 13

Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition • 11

www.covingtonleader.com

district attorney general, 25th dist.

D.J. Norton Challenger, McNairy County 1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I’ve been a resident of West Tennessee my entire life. I was born and raised in McNairy County, attended college at the University of Tennessee at Martin and went to law school at the University of Memphis. I am a proud Christian and that plays the important role in my life. My family has been in the area for generations, and the love for this region is one key element handed down to me throughout my life. My grandmother, in particular, handed down many valuable lessons of knowing to treat everyone with honor and respect. Although she only had an eighth grade education, I learned more from her about life than any college ever taught me. She taught me to use my common sense, work hard and to treat everyone fairly. Being good stewards of our communities comes from involvement with our churches, small businesses and local institutions.

As I’ve traveled across West Tennessee, I’ve learned these same principles hold true in all counties. Citizens want elected officials who treasure their values as they do personally. I serve on the Board of Directors of the McNairy County Animal Shelter Friends, own and operate the Norton Law Office and serve my community every chance I get.

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

I was number one in my class at University of Tennessee at Martin and in the top five percent of my class at Uni-

torney. The measures I want to pursue - such as harsher regulation on repeat offenders, new ideals for rehabilitation, and new ways that will provide stronger protection for our children - are pivotal for moving forward. Over the past few years, crime levels throughout West Tennessee have been on the uptick. We have to have an active District Attorney who is going to be willing to take on new ideas for our changing atmosphere.

By meeting legal challenges in a smart and tough fashion, we can make a better West Tennessee for all.

versity of Memphis Law School. My academic career was defined by learning the best methods for protecting a county and citizens within the confines of the law. As an attorney in various towns throughout West Tennessee, I’ve worked hard to ensure the lessons I learned are applied to providing fair outcomes for those I’ve defended. I’ve become a more high-profile attorney in the region as time has gone on and earned acclaim for my diligence. Still, the spotlight means very little to me.

What matters most is my personal relationships with the people in my counties and finding out what are the best ways we can make our towns and cities safer for everyone. Most of all I remember the values I learned from my grandmother- To use my common sense, work hard and treat everyone fairly. That is most of all what makes me the best candidate for this position.

3. Why are you running?

I have a passion for helping others. I don’t think there’s any better public capacity for ensuring the safety and civility of our residents than District At-

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

The people of Tipton County will know they’re not going to have some who is going to sit idley by as crime rates continue to increase and repeat offenders continue to walk the streets.

They’ll know they have an advocate for change in office who is going to ensure the best policies to make Tipton County a safter place. My office is going to be an open one, taking each public concern very importantly and equally. I’m going to take the concerns of our citizens, and most importantly the questions on the safety of our most valuable resource, our people, and advocate for changes that will benefit them.

It’s time injustice stops being fodder for small talk at the restaurants where we eat breakfast and instead becomes words for a District Attorney to take to heart in order for our county to become a safer place.

5. What, in your opinion, makes a great district attorney? How will you work to promote the peace and dignity of the State of Tennessee and prosecute those who are accused of violating the law?

Obviously, a great District Attorney

has to know the law. He has to have a good legal mind for how the perimeters of our justice system works. However, another trait we don’t see as much of is a District Attorney who is active and constantly listening to the voices of the people. So many of our citizens have concerns over crime, repeat offenders and the safety of their children.

These concerns can’t be ignored; no one knows a county better than its residents. Knowning this, I will have my ear on the legal troubles of Tipton County as a whole. I want my office to be very open and transparent, making sure people understand the law just as well as I do. Being a District Attorney people know will be open, fair and understanding of community concerns is what can make me a great one.

6. You’re a defense attorney; if elected, how will this background benefit the office of district attorney general? Tell us about your experience prosecuting.

Like my opponent who was a Criminal Defense Attorney before becoming the District Attorney, I too have been on the defense side for some time. My experience as a defense attorney has allowed me to see first hand the flaws of our District Attorneys Office. I see first hand the need for common sense and fairness in the District Attorneys Office. I know the law. I understand our unique problems. I am willing to listen, and I will never use this office for political gain. I have been on the outside looking in and this will allow me to serve as a vibrant and fair District Attorney General. I have the same experience prosecuting that my opponent had when he ran for District Attorney General. It is my belief that common sense, hard work and fairness will carry us to a better future.

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tipton county executive

Bobby Clemons Jr. Challenger, Atoka

because I’m apart of the people.

3. Why are you running?

I’m running for this office because Tipton County isn’t where it needs to be.

There are many great opportunities available that aren’t being taken advantage of. I see where we are now as a county but also where we can be with new and better leadership. I want more people to see Tipton County as a place to vacation, raise a family and call it home. Our youth need more inspiration and outlets.

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I’m 26 years old and the youngest of three children. I’m single with no children. I’m employed as a line technician at Unilever in Covington. I’m a member of Spirit of Life Healing Wings International Church with my mother. I performed at The Apollo Theater in Harlem, NY in 2008 for three consecutive weeks.

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

I believe any job can be done as long as you have the right tools. My qualifications rely in my character: trustful, dependable, mature, creative, realistic,

reliable, leader, honest, ambitious, team player, & a man of my word. I want to see Tipton County grow into its full potential. I’m young, fresh, full of great ideas and ready to get the job done. I know what the people want and need

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

The people of Tipton County should vote for me because I’m just like them, ready for change and want better. I was born and raised in this county all of my life. There is nothing more I would rather see than the county that I call

home, provide valuable resources to the people of our county, so more people can work, provide for their families, and get back on their feet. I will bring The Second Chance Program to our county which will help one time felons get jobs.

I have acquired the contact numbers for over 500 of the top companies to help bring more jobs to our county and will acquire more. Franchising is also apart of my plan to bring more jobs. The business fields vary from: retail, entertainment, education, wood products, plastics, textiles, rubber products, furniture and fixtures, instruments, motor vehicles, motor vehicle parts, electrical equipment and appliances, computers and other electronic products, food, tobacco, aerospace and defense, pharmaceuticals, beverages, machinery, chemicals, publishing & printing, paper, primary metals, apparel, fabricated metal products, medical instruments and equipment, communications equipment, petroleum and coal products and miscellaneous.

tipton county executive

Jeff Huffman Incumbent, Brighton 1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I am a 1970 Brighton High School graduate, a 1975 University of Tennessee graduate, and have been employed with Tipton County Government since September 1, 1986. My family includes my wife, Darlene, and our daughters Brittany (34 years old) and McKenzie (20 years old). I was elected to the Tipton County Commission in 1978—Re-elected in 1982, Elected Tipton County Mayor in 1986---Re-elected in 1990,1994,1998,2002,2006,2010, Chairman, Tipton County Legislature, Chairman, Delta Human Resource Agency, Chairman, Aging Commission of the Mid-South, Chairman, West Tennessee County Mayors Associa-

tion, Chairman, Tipton County Board of Health, Chairman, Tipton County Banking Committee, Chairman, Tipton County Emergency Management Agency, Former Chairman, Mississippi River Corridor – Tennessee , Chairman, HLT Advantage Regional Industrial Board of

Directors, Vice President of the Tennessee County Service Association, Member, Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations, Member, Tennessee County Services Association Board of Directors, 1995 Covington Exchange Club Man of the Year, 1998 Dyersburg State Community College Distinguished Service Award, Recipient of the Robert M. Wormsley County Official of the Year Award, Recipient of the Memphis Area Association of Governments Distinguished Service Award, Member, Tipton Lodge #226, Elder and Congregational Chairman -- Brighton Presbyterian Church, Former member of the Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability, Member of the Covington-Tipton County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Former President of the Tennessee County Services Association, Graduate of the University of Tennessee Institute of Public Service Leadership Program, Former President of the Memphis Area Association of Governments, Former President of the Tennessee Development District Asso-

ciation, Member of Board of Directors of Tennessee County Service Association Insurance Board, Former Member of Dunlap Retirement Home Board of Directors, Member of Governor Bredesen’s Criminal Justice Council, Ex officio member of the Tipton County Public Works Committee, Ex officio member of the Tipton County Finance Committee, Ex officio member of the Tipton County General Welfare Committee 2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

I served for eight years on the Tipton County Legislative Body and have served as county mayor for the past twenty-eight years. Tipton County Government is big business now. The annual budget is $128 million dollars.

There are over 1,750 employees. The complexity of the challenges facing local governments in Tennessee is continuing to require a growing knowledge of the See huffman, page 13

Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition • 13

www.covingtonleader.com

huffman,

Continued from page 13 statutes and the rules and regulations across a broad spectrum of issues. Effectively addressing these issues requires knowing what options are available to local government. It is important to use good business practices and to be fiscally responsible to the citizens of Tipton County.

3. Why are you running?

There are still major projects and issues to implement. The new library at Dyersburg State Community College; the Tipton County REDI Mentoring/ Scholarship program that just got off the

DUNAVANT,

Continued from page 10 ally fair in our charging and prosecution decisions over the last eight years. One of the most pressing issues affecting our citizens is the recent dramatic increase in prescription narcotic drug abuse, which is causing a spike in accidental drug overdose deaths and hospitalizations; creating opiate addictions which lead to use of more dangerous street drugs such as heroin; and motivating many other crimes such as doctor shopping, prescription forgery, diversion, and identity theft, TennCare fraud, pharmacy burglaries and robberies, and drug impaired driving. To address this growing problem, I will aggressively investigate and prosecute those who illegally obtain, sell and distribute these controlled substances, especially to our youth.

In 2012, I dedicated an ADA position from my staff to serve as a Special Assistant United States Attorney (SAUSA) for the Western District of Tennessee, to specifically prosecute repeat offenders from the 25th District for federal criminal offenses involving weapons offenses and narcotics trafficking and manufacture. My office has also been proactive in aggressively seeking enhanced sentencing for drug offenders who sell or possess illegal narcotics within drug free zones (1,000 feet of any school, daycare, public park or library).

Child abuse and neglect is a serious criminal problem that must be prosecuted aggressively in order to protect

ground that is helping more of our kids that graduate from high school go to an institution of higher learning; continuing on the path of responsible stewardship so that Tipton County Government can be completely debt-free in three to four years (only one county in Tn. has that distinction now); and continuing to work to ensure that Tipton County is attractive to business and industry so that our workers can provide for their families. (May unemployment rate 7.8%).

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you See huffman, page 18

children, achieve justice for victimized children, and to promote public awareness of the need for greater reporting of instances of abuse and neglect. Since 2006, my office has not only increased the number of convictions for crimes committed against children as compared with prior years, but also has had more cases accepted for prosecution and secured more overall child abuse convictions during that period of time than any other county or judicial district in West Tennessee, excluding Shelby County. I have worked with Tennessee legislators over the past few years to strengthen and enhance criminal penalties for manufacturing methamphetamine in the presence of a child; increased requirements for the juvenile sex offender registry; increased range of punishment for rape of a child, and increased sentencing for aggravated child neglect.

My office has worked diligently to identify and aggressively prosecute by transfer to adult court those juvenile gang offenders who commit violent, sexual and firearms offenses. We have also added gang enhancement charges to adult offenders where the evidence indicates that the criminal activity was motivated by gang affiliation or promotion. I have worked with Tennessee legislators over the past few years to pass new laws addressing gang activity through enhanced sentencing for crimes committed in groups; criminal gang surveillance by wiretap; and public nuisance laws to target gang activity in certain locations and neighborhoods.

Bo Burk

My name is Bo Burk. I am a candidate for Public Defender. I live in Covington, Tennessee. I was born and raised in Tipton County. I graduated from Munford High School.

I am married to Kathleen Glass Burk, daughter of Charles and Judy Glass. My parents are Billy and Evelyn Burk. My father is a retired Memphis firefighter and my mother is a retired Tipton County postmaster. My sister Kim Gramling is a Tipton County first grade school teacher. As you see, I come from a family of public servants.

I have worked as an assistant district attorney for the past seven years in Tipton County. I have served in all five counties while in this office.

I have handled over 500 criminal cases each month. I have handled trials from theft to first degree murder. I am experienced and qualified to be your next Public Defender.

On August 7th, please vote

BO Burk

for Public Defender.

Paid for by: Friends to elect Bo Burk

14 • Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition

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county legislative body, dist. 1

county legislative body, dist. 1

Olean Anderson Challenger, Covington

Quincy Barlow Incumbent, Covington

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I am Olean Anderson, the daughter of the late Joseph and Earver Lee Clemons Fields. I am a member of Canaan Baptist Church. I am a member of the Melanin Book Club, president of the Covington Economic Development Corporation, Covington-Tipton County Chamber of Commerce Board member, financial secretary for the Frazier Alumni Association, a member of the Concerned Committed Voters of Tipton County (CCV-TC), 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.

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

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 38t years as an employee of the City of Covington. Additionally, I am the City of Covington Customer Service Administrator, which entails supervising employees and investigating customer issues. Therefore, the experiences I’ve encountered and been exposed to more than qualifies me for the office of County Commissioner. I am the best candidate for commissioner because I know how to assist and help others to help themselves. It’s not

about me, it’s about helping and being there for others.

3. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

My plans include networking with the citizens of Tipton County in order to identify their needs an addressing those needs and establishing a proactive group to encourage citizens to promote positive agendas for themselves, thereby promoting Tipton County.

As a commissioner, I would establish a Citizens Information Commission for the purpose of providing a central location for citizens to call and/or visit for “how-to/where-to” find assistance and the location for needed information. 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. 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 generate additional tax revenue.

4. 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. Additional industry and retail establishments will increase employment and tax revenue.

6. Please tell us why people should vote for you in the election. The citizens should vote for me because I will provide them will the necessary directions to improve their lives. It is imperative that all Tipton County citizens be treated humanely and provided with the same rights. I promise and assure the citizens of Tipton County that I am committed to equal rights for all.

As a Commissioner, I will help the unemployed become employable.

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I work for Delta Human Resource Agency as executive director and serve as pastor at Hickory Grove Church. My wife’s name is Shelia and we have a son, Quinton, a daughter, Brittney, and one grandson, Peyton. My mother’s names is Marjorie.

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

I have served during very difficult economical times without a major tax increase. I have been a part of the county growth, plus a part of helping provide good schools, public safety, etc.

3. Why are you running?

I love Tipton County and am very proud of where our county stands in the state of Tennessee as far as financial rating. I will do everything I can to continue to

bring jobs to Tipton County.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

One thing I have become very concerned about is the county’s work force.

If I can do something to help those who have no job get hired, or be able to keep a job, how great that would be.

county legislative body, dist. 2

Tommy Dunavant Incumbent, Covington

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I am the son of Andrew Dunvant and the late Doris Moore Dunavant. I’m married to Beth Stiles Dunavant. I have a son, Brad Dunavant; one daughterin-law, Sarah King Dunavant; two grandchildren, Andi and Bo Dunavant; and one daughter, Cheynne Dunavant.

We are active members at First Baptist Church in Covington. I have been

employed with the Covington Fire Department for 29 years, holding the rank of captain. I am the director of the Covington-Tipton County Emergency Management Agency. I presently serve as president of West TEMA (Tennessee Emergency Managament Agency) Association and vice president of EMAT (Emergency Management Association of Tennessee).

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

I am seeking the position of District 2 county commissioner for my third term. I serve on the Tipton County Public Works Committee and the GenSee DUNAVANT, page 15

www.covingtonleader.com

Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition • 15

DUNAVANT,

Continued from page 14 eral Welfare Committee. I also serve as chairman of the Ambulance Service Committee for Tipton County. After serving the people of Tipton County for eight year, I feel this experience helps me be a qualified candidate for the position of county commissioner.

3. Why are you running?

I am running for re-election because I feel like I can and so make a difference in the quality of life for the 61,000-plus citizens of Tipton County. The citizens of Tipton County should be proud of the work that the county executive and present and past county commissioners have done, and I would like to be a part of the success this county will see in the next 20 years.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

My goals and ideas haven’t changed much since being elected in 2006. We still need to insure that our children are educated and have the chance at secondary education if they desire. We need to make sure our citizens, especially our children, are safe. We need to stay focused on bringing in jobs throughout the county. We need to work and bring ideas to the table that make the quality of life in Tipton County something special.

county legislative body, dist. 3 Paid for by friends to Elect Kristie Glass Maxwell, Trustee - Kim Gay Myers, Treasurer

VOTE SHANA JOHNSON FOR PUBLIC DEFENDER 25th Judicial District of Tennessee It has been my pleasure to serve the people as District Public Defender of the 25th Judicial District since March 13, 1990.

During that time the office has grown from two attorneys to its present size of eight attorneys serving Fayette, Hardeman, Lauderdale, McNairy and Tipton counties. My office represents many thousands of clients each year; more than a hundred thousand cases since I took office. After much thought and consideration I have decided not to seek another elected term as Public Defender.

The Public Defender's office has strived and been successful in offering excellent representation to the defendants we have represented. In each of the five counties the Public Defender's office has a good reputation for the work we do. I have been blessed to have hard working attorneys and support staff to do the bulk of the work. Each employee has strived to work hard with dedication and has served the people well.

The work of the Public Defender and staff has become burdensome due to under funding, increased case load and complications of the law. A person who serves in the office of Public Defender must be dedicated and experienced in handling the cases and defendants we are called upon to represent. I am hoping the people will choose someone who is ready to take the reins of the office and maintain strong standards. My assistant of twenty-four years, Senior Assistant Public Defender Shana Johnson, meets those expectations. She desires to continue the good work which has been done and see to it that the integrity of the office is maintained. I recommend that Ms. Johnson be allowed the opportunity to carry on the work. It is her career goal to be elected to the office of Public Defender, to preserve and keep up the fight for justice, and offer the present staff a chance to keep their jobs.

As for me, I am keeping my options open. I will consider other possibilities and opportunities. probably am not ready to just stay home.

Thank you for your friendship and support over the years.

Paid for by Friends of Shana Johnson, Treasurer Carolyn Starnes

Steve Bringle Incumbent, Covington

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

My name is Steve Bringle. I have been married to Jan Goforth Bringle for 37 years. I have four children and five grandchildren. We are members of Oak Grove Church in Covington. I am a second-generation farmer and have lived and worked in Tipton County all my life. My parents, Bob Bringle and Francis Glass Bringle, started farming in Tipton County and I have proudly continued their legacy. In addition to farming, our family has also worked in construction. I have been working with Tipton County Schools for nine years driving buses daily, along with taking various athletic teams to away games.

Being certified to drive the bus has also allowed me to volunteer for various community events, such as Atoka’s Rock the Block. In my spare time, I am involved in two important organizations. I have been working alongside Relay for Life to raise money to fight cancer for 11 years. I am also president of the Covington Roundball Club which

raises money for the Covington basketball teams. Lastly, I have been chairman of the Tipton County Beer Board for 20 years and have been vice-chairman of Tipton County Public Works for 12 years.

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

My most impressive qualification for this position is my experience. I have served as a County Commissioner in See bringle, page 16

16 • Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition

www.covingtonleader.com

county legislative body, dist. 3

county legislative body, dist. 4

Jeff Mason

Mike Sterling

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I am married to Diane K. Mason. We have two sons: J.B, a fourth-year Urology Resident at Florida State Hospital in Gainesville, Fl.; and Jon David, who runs Mason Ice Company. I work at West Side grocery. Mt. Lebanon Baptist is my home church.

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I have been married 29 years to Katrina Sterling. I have two daughters, Micah Sterling and Lyndsey (Ross) Russell, and one granddaughter, Chloe Russell.

Katrina is employed with Baptist H.C Corp. I have farming interests in Tipton and Shelby counties. We attend Salem A.R.P. Church, where I serve as a deacon. I also serve on the County Finance Committee.

Incumbent, Atoka

Incumbent, Covington

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

I’ve spent 39 years working in retail business, 12 years serving on the county finance committee and I truly enjoy serving and helping the public.

3. Why are you running?

To try to make a difference in government, be a voice for the people that can’t be there, to make decisions that are morally and ethically correct for the people.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

Bringle,

Continued from page 15 District 3 for 20 years, during which time I also served on the welfare committee.

I have been representing my district well during the five terms I have been elected. From limb removal to road repairs I have always responded quickly to the needs of the citizens in my district. As the late Addison Bringle always said, if a constituent calls you with a problem you always call them back as soon as possible. As any of my constituents would tell you, I have worked tirelessly to live up to this standard. I have always used my job as a county commissioner to be the best representative possible for my constituents. My 20 years of experience as a county commissioner has given me the

To continue our work toward a debt-free county and support the sheriff ’s office, to continue to build strong roads and to support our wonderful schools. With the help of Mayor Huffman, the county commission has been and will continue to work hard to bring in new industry.

I would like to see the day when we cn fully fund the sheriff ’s office.

5. What, do you believe, is the biggest issue for your constituents and how do you plan to solve it?

Jobs will always be a big issue. I will conSee Mason, page 17

skills necessary to do this. I have never been afraid to stand up for District 3, and will continue to do so if re-elected.

3. Why are you running?

I love working with the people in District 3 and working together with my fellow commissioners. Serving as a County Commissioner in my district has been a highlight of my life the past twenty years. I look forward to continuing my service to this great district and the citizens of Tipton County.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

The people of District 3 should vote for

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

I am a lifelong Tipton Countian, growing up in a rural county, to an increasing population growth, new businesses, solid schools, upgraded roads and parks.

I believe over the years being involved in these areas gives me the experience and leadership to make a good candidate.

3. Why are you running?

Tipton County is a special place to raise a family. Many hard working people have made it this way. I would like to continue to serve as commissioner to do my part

me because I have a proven track record and will be able to continue helping the citizens in my district. I feel that we have made great strides in improving the quality of life for the residents in our district, and I am proud to have been instrumental in doing doing this through bringing Dollar General and sales tax revenue to Garland. We need to keep the momentum going. My plan for my next term is to continue prosperity for the citizens in District 3 through effective leadership. I was on the commission when Dyersburg State Community College-Naifeh Center was built in Covington. The county has helped fund a new wing that will open this fall and includes the Tipton County Public Library, which will have 280 computers.

that will benefit our county.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

As our county continues to grow in the future, we need to continue to provide a quality of lifestyle for our citizens. Also continue strong police and fire protection, increasing parks, walking tracks, and other forms of recreation, more senior citizen involvement and activities, See sterling, page 17

5. What, do you believe, is the biggest issue for your constituents and how do you plan to solve it?

In my experience, the most commonly addressed problem in our district is roadways. I believe we have done an excellent job responding to these issues quickly and effectively. While we do not believe there are pressing issues in this area currently, we are prepared and ready to handle any that may occur. I am also proud of our commission’s track record of keeping taxes low while returning taxpayer dollars back to the community to make improvements. Our ability to work together to target and limit our spending is a strategy we will continue to employ to encourage growth and prosperity across our county. I appreciate your vote and continued support.

Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition • 17

www.covingtonleader.com

county legislative body, dist. 5

Glenn Turner Incumbent, Atoka

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I moved to Tipton County in 1989. I am married to the former Stacey Forbess of Munford. We have three children: Dylan 21; Alex, 19; and Addie, 5. I have been employed with the Tipton County Board of Education for 25 years and currently serve as the energy/facility manager. We are members of First Baptist Church in Millington.

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

I have been in several positions that required effective communication skills and personal interaction with the resi-

dents of Tipton County. I enjoy working with the people of Tipton County to make their local government more efficient for the citizens.

3. Why are you running? I want to make sure that Tipton County continues to take a conservative approach in spending tax dollars and that our county continues to be operated in a fiscally responsible manner.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind? I want to continue to be a good steward of the tax dollar in Tipton County. I will ensure that the commission continues to take a conservative approach in funding our local government while utilizing revenue through grants and other sources to enhance the services provided to the citizens of Tipton County.

mason,

Continued from page 16 tinue to work with the county commission to bring in more jobs and tax revenue for our small cities of District III. I will work hard to support businesses in those communities.

sterling,

Continued from page 16 downhill question and answer forums for our citizens, recruiting more of the medical fields in our county and better communication between all our officials in the county. Serving my constitiuents in District 4, I have gained valuable experience in being part of the decision process. It has been exciting and I hope citizens in District 4 will continue to support me.

VOTE.

Let your voice be heard.

AUGUST 7 // NOVEMBER 4

18 • Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition

county legislative body, dist. 7

Courtney Fee Incumbent, Brighton

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

Courtney Fee is a Tipton County native who grew up in District 7 and attended Brighton schools until the school consolidation. She then attended Munford High School and graduated in 1985.

Courtney went to Christian Brothers University, and after graduating from CBU, spent 13 years working there in the Office of Admission. In 2003, Courtney returned home and joined Tipton County Schools as a teacher. She earned a doctoral degree from the University of Memphis and now serves as Principal at Munford High School. Courtney is involved with various community endeavors including Celebrate Munford and the Tipton County Public Library Board, and is a member of Sharon ARP Church. Courtney is single.

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

District 7 has two positions on the County Commission. I currently serve in one of the two positions as a member of the Finance Committee. My qualifications include my involvement within our community in District 7, my experience with budgetary oversight at CBU and MHS, and my understanding of the entire county’s needs with regard to safety, infrastructure and education.

3. Why are you running?

I am running for County Commission

huffman,

Continued from page 13 increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

At the end of the day, the communities that are the best educated will be the

www.covingtonleader.com

county legislative body, dist. 7

Harold “Poochie” Twisdale Incumbent, Mason

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I am a lifelong resident of the Gainesville community in Tipton County. I’m married to Ruth Miller Twisdale with three children, six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. I am a member of Ebenezer Cumberland Church where I serve as an elder and Sunday school superintendent and teacher. because I enjoy giving back to the community in which I live and to the county where I grew up. I am running also because I feel I can adequately represent the voice of the people of District 7 with regard to issues of education, safety and emergency management, infrastructure, and county services.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

I am asking the voters of District 7 to support me because I feel I have a unique perspective of the needs of our local community and of the entire county because of my daily work. I feel I understand the importance of maintaining the strong quality of life we currently enjoy throughout the county, while taking a reasonable approach to the budgeting process to ensure our county’s financial health in the future.

communities with the best jobs. It is important to build a “culture of education” in our county. That is why DSCC is so important. That is why REDI is so important. That is why Tipton County’s scholarship program is important; and that is why the new library is important.

Improving the quality of life is a longterm endeavor. But all of these initiatives

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

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 eight years as the chairman of the Public Works Committee. My service also includes being a member of the original HLT Regional Solid Waste Board. I have attended several training sessions with the Tennessee County Service Association on Governmental Operations.

3. Why are you running?

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

point to the same goal --- to dramatically improve the educational attainment level of our citizens. I ask for the support of Tipton Countians so that I can continue to push this agenda of items forward.

5. How will your experience or inexperience make you a successful county executive?

that and I would be willing to listen to the people and make those changes.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

With the experience I have gained for the past 28 years, I believe that I am wellqualified to represent the people for another four years. I have always listened to the people of my district and will continue to do so. With the megasite coming and the $60 million the county has put into it, that should be a big plus for the economy. 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 during 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 to do so again.

My experience over the years and my affiliation with many policy boards (both state and local) allows me to know how legislation will affect Tipton County Government early on in the process so that the county can prepare to deal with revenue decreases or mandates from state or federal government levels.

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county legislative body, dist. 9

Jeff Scott

Incumbent, Brighton

Incumbent, Covington

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

Married to Wanda Scott for 30 years.

Religion: Protestant. Son/daughter-inlaw: Hunter and Amber Scott. Daughter: Whitney Scott. Owner of Scott Electric Co. for 22 years.

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

Four previous terms as county commissioner, three terms as mayor of Brighton.

3. Why are you running?

To assist in the continued advancement and progress of Tipton County, my home for my entire life.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our resi-

dents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

As a lifelong resident of Tipton County, it has always been my passion to assist in identifying means with which to improve the overall infrastructure of Tipton County, including roads, schools, fire, police protection and overall needs for the citizens of this great county.

General Sessions Judge Stacey Longo Graham Challenger, Drummonds

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I’ve lived in Tipton County over eight years, am married to Roger Graham, have 13 siblings and fifteen nieces/nephews, and attend Richland ARP Church. I enjoy hiking, swimming, and traveling; volunteered as a suicide prevention hotline counselor; helped build handicappedaccessible hiking trails; assisted with sea turtle research; interned at a museum in Gambia; and assisted with CASA training. I was chosen as a 2002 recipient of the Memphis Women’s Magazine 50 Women Who Make a Difference award.

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

General Sessions Judge William A. Peeler

I’ve maintained a private practice since 2004, representing clients in Shelby, Tipton, and Fayette counties. I’m a Rule 31 Listed Family Mediator “Specially See graham, page 20

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I am a lifelong resident of Tipton County with deep roots in the community; my family settled here in 1828. My wife Nancy and I have been married for 31 years and have three children. She has her own business, Old Town Hall, which is one of the cornerstones of the revitalization of the downtown Covington business district. We are active members of Covington First United Methodist Church where we have both served in various positions of responsibility, including my service as chair of the Administrative Board.

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

I practiced law for 13 years before becoming judge. During that time I served as City Attorney for Covington and City Judge for both Atoka and Munford. I was recently appointed by the governor as one of seven judges from across the state to serve on the Three Branches Institute, a task force striving for better outcomes for children in state custody. I was further selected as the Judicial representative of the three-person Executive Committee of that Commission. I have 38 years legal experience. I know the law and I know the people of Tipton County.

3. Why are you running?

During my service in office I feel a lot has been accomplished. Among the many accomplishments I have put in place are a court security system, county probation office, in house domestic violence and alcohol and drug counseling, DUI school, court school, Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), truancy board and organized community service program and close working relationships with the school system, mental health represen-

tatives and multiple A & D rehab providers. I have great expectations for our county, and there is much more work to be done.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

Last year my court handled over 14,000 cases in an efficient, organized and fair manner. With my 38 years legal experience I offer the county a “seasoned” judge who can efficiently and effectively deal with an ever increasing case load.

5. How will your experience or inexperience lend itself to your success, if elected?

What makes this an important decision for Tipton County?

The vast majority of Tipton County citizens who will ever have contact with the court system will have it with the General Sessions or Juvenile Court. I have a proven track record of being able to handle an extremely heavy caseload in a fair, efficient and just manner and reputation as a judge who is accessible by our citizens who often times are in desperate need of help and information. Myself and my staff always stand ready to help any of the citizens of this county that are in need.

Nominating petitions for the November elections are due by noon on August 21.

The last day to register to vote in the November 2014 elections is October 6.

20 • Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition

Tipton County trustee

Kristie Glass Maxwell Incumbent, Covington

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I have proudly called Tipton County home since I was born. My parents are Bonnie and the late Lawrence Glass. I have three children: Kacy, Chelsea, and Lawson. Lawson will begin his freshman year at Covington High School in the fall. My granddaughter, Rowan, who is almost seven, will begin her first grade year at Crestview Elementary School in August. We attend the Covington Church of Christ. I am a member of the Covington Rotary Club and am a past Board member of the Carl Perkins Center.

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

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 Administra-

graham,

Continued from page 19 Trained in Domestic Violence Issues,” certified as a Juvenile Law-Child Welfare Specialist by the Tennessee Commission on Continuing Legal Education and Specialization, recognized by the National Association of Council for Children as a Child Welfare Law Specialist, and have testified as an expert witness.

I’ve represented clients in General Sessions Criminal Court, General Sessions Civil Court, Juvenile Court, Chancery Court, Circuit Court, Criminal Court, and city courts. I posses the right combination of experience, knowledge, and energy.

3. Why are you running?

tor designation through the University of Tennessee.

3. Why are you running?

The Trustee’s office is an exciting office with great responsibilities. I take great pride in the office and its future. Our office is staffed with excellent, experienced, service-minded individuals. It is our goal to serve you in a friendly, efficient, helpful, and professional manner; furthermore, keeping it our main goal to safeguard your money as taxpayers. We are always looking for better ways to serve the public and to find more convenient ways to pay taxes.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

I am so thankful for the opportunity to serve the great people of Tipton County.

Seeing and visiting all of you in the office and trying to do my best to help you have been such a positive force in my life. I sincerely want to do a good job and have tried my best to accommodate all of you.

My desire to serve you continues and I would appreciate your vote and your support for another term.

Our satellite office in Munford has been a huge success thanks to the County Commission for their blessing and the City of Munford for providing the space.

Since changing our schedule to Wednes-

People have been asking me to run because they are dissatisfied with the court.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

I possess the right combination of experience, knowledge, and energy. Some key points are law abiding, pro-family, efficiently and ethically run court, and amenability to a veterans’ court. In a courtroom, personal opinions are irrelevant. Under the law, men and women are equal; mothers and fathers are equal.

While maintaining my law practice, I’ve personally walked to more than 2,500 homes. Put another way, that’s roughly

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circuit court clerk

Mike Forbess Incumbent, Munford

My name is Mike Forbess. I am currently the Tipton County Circuit Court Clerk.

It has been my honor to serve the greatest county in Tennessee as their Circuit Court Clerk for the past 20 years. I am very proud of the record that my staff and I have built over the past 20 years and I feel that we have provided the citizens of Tipton County one of the best run county offices in the state. We will continue to provide courteous, professional and efficient services to this county. As Tipton County has grown over the last 20 years, it has been a challenge to provide the services required of a growing county and maintain quality services, always working within the budget to keep the burden off the taxpayer. I am very proud of the fact I have never went over budget and I am very thankful to the leadership of this county for working with county officials so that together we can provide quality

services to the citizens we serve. I ask you for your vote on Election Day and look forward to continue serving the citizens of the greatest county in the state of Tennessee! Thank you.

days during the tax collection season, we have seen over a 40 percent increase in the number of people served there. A new tax bill has been implemented providing a more professional bill filled with information to benefit our citizens. Our partial payment and bank draft plan has also been a positive addition for our tax-

payers, especially during the tough economic times. We have been able to provide all of these additional services with our same number of experienced staff.

200 miles when using a pedometer. Volunteers have gone to more than 3,000 homes. I’ve listened to your concerns.

I shall start court on-time, hear trials in the courtroom and not in-chambers, more thoroughly train and utilize CASA, strive to create a court mentor program matching adults to children, establish a court suggestion box, work with churches to start community-based tutoring programs, and hold children and their parents accountable for delinquent acts and truancy. The law is what it is.

The law dictates the consequences for choosing not to follow it. Don’t expect anything different from me. You can find information and ideas via my website, Facebook page, and You Tube videos.

ence lend itself to your success, if elected?

What makes this an important decision for Tipton County?

In Tipton County, the General Sessions Court judge and the Juvenile Court judge are combined into one judge and listed on the ballot as General Sessions Court Judge. This position has not been a contested race in more than a generation. The incumbent is seeking another eight-year term. I have been an administrative law judge, testified as an expert witness, and spent almost the past ten years as a trial attorney. I treat everyone the same. I’m committed to serving you for one term, after which I shall humbly step aside so that someone else can be your servant. After all, political office is a privilege not a career.

5. How will your experience or inexperi-

Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition • 21

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sheriff J.T. “Pancho” Chumley

County clerk

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

My wife Lisa and I have been married for 22 years. We have one son, Tucker, who will be a freshman at Covington High School this upcoming school year. We are members of Covington First Presbyterian Church. I have worked for the Tipton County Sheriff ’s Office for since 1987, and have been sheriff since 2006.

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I am Mary Gaither, Tipton County Clerk, and am married to R. Louis Gaither with one daughter, Jen Ford (husband Greg) and three grandchildren: Ann Charlotte, Evie and Amy Claire. I am a long time resident of Tipton County and reside in Covington. I am a Christian and active in several community organizations including: member of South Tipton and Covington Chambers of Commerce, advisory board member of the Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Covington, Community Advisory Board member of the Baptist Memorial Hospital-Tipton and promote organ donor awareness.

Mary Gaither

Incumbent, Covington

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

I have been in law enforcement my entire adult life, literally since I was 18 years old.

I began as a patrol deputy and have essentially served in every division throughout my career. I have worked my way through the ranks, all the way to election as Sheriff. I have continued to educate myself during my career, through continuing education, including the completion of the FBI National Academy, the National Sheriff ’s Institute and the like. I strive every day to achieve what is required to progress our agency. I have operated a fiscally responsible agency during my eight-year tenure as sheriff, never going over budget, while still meeting the demands of this office.

3. Why are you running?

I am seeking re-election because Tipton County is my family’s home and I sincerely care about its safety and reputation.

Crime is ever-present. Drugs and gangs, among other wrongdoings, daily threaten our way of life. I am not willing to sit on the sidelines and watch our communities give way to the dangers these issues present. I have always believed in taking a personal approach in dealing with the needs of the public.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

The people of Tipton County deserve effective law enforcement. Upon my

Incumbent, Covington

election, I established clear goals to battle the sale and use of illegal narcotics, expand the personnel and service ability of the department, and retain personnel.

We have made great strides in providing those services and will continue to do so under my leadership. We have been mindful to identify and recruit capable men and women to address the requirements of this profession. It has always been my policy to operate transparently, as evidenced in the monthly reporting of our activities to the county legislative body, the use of social media to keep the public informed, routine press releases to the mainstream media, as well as producing real-time crime maps of incidents occurring in our community, to name a few.

Under my leadership, and through the dedicated service of the men and women of the Sheriff ’s Office, we have accomplished much. We were named the third safest county in the country in which to live by Progressive Farmer magazine.

We have been the recipient of numerous state and national awards for our efforts in traffic safety enforcement and saving lives on our roadways. We have fostered relationships with state and federal agencies in order to expand and strengthen our approach on combatting drug crimes and repeat offenders, and even now have personnel dedicated to a federal task force.

With my extensive law enforcement training and experiences, combined with the continued input from the community, together we can make Tipton County an even better and safer place to live.

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

My managerial and financial skills are essential to the operations of the county clerks office. Additional assets are 21 years of experience, having detailed knowledge of the duties and laws pertaining to motor vehicle, business tax, marriage licenses, transient vendor licenses, pawnbroker licenses, hotel motel tax, hunting and fishing licenses to name a few. I have continued my education as a certified public administrator with the University of Tennessee and completed the local government leadership program. I serve on the board of the County Officials Association of Tennessee and elected president of the West Tennessee County Clerks association. I serve on the Tennessee County Clerks Legislative Committee and I am also the clerk of the Tipton County Legislative Body.

3. Why are you running?

I have chosen public service as my life’s work and I have the desire and commitment to serve our community for the betterment of Tipton County.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

I am always striving for creative ways to incorporate services, which are helpful to the citizens, such as opening the satellite office at Munford City Hall every Wednesday. This has proven to be a successful decision. In the near future I will also go into a contract with the department of health providing our newest service, offering certified copies of birth certificates. My staff and I take pride in providing the highest level of customer service with professionalism, while being efficient.

I am truly honored to run unopposed this election. I appreciate your continued support and humbly ask for your vote.

VOTE.

Let your voice be heard.

AUGUST 7 // NOVEMBER 4

22 • Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition

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Constable, Dist. 4

school board, dist. 6

Richard Joyner

past four years on the school board have given me a deeper knowledge of our educational process.

Mike J. Osborn

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

Married for 50 years to Kay Joyner, 3 children- Kindle (George) Willis, Richie (Angela) Joyner, Sherry Joyner; 5 granddaughters, 1 great grandson; retired from Millington NSA, member of Hopewell United Methodist Church.

3. Why are you running?

I have enjoyed learning more about our educational system, and I believe I can continue to help our county maintain a high quality of education for our students.

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

I received my undergraduate degree at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Fla. immediately prior to being accepted into the US Naval Aviation Officers Candidate School in Pensacola, Fla. After successful completion and commissioning as an Ensign in the US Navy, I attended flight training in Pensacola and Kingsville, Texas, where I received my Wings of Gold and F/A-18 Hornet aircraft type designation. I was ordered to California for Hornet training and, not long after, to sea for combat missions in the Persian Gulf. During my 11 years of active duty I landed the F/A-18 Hornet over 350 times on six different aircraft carriers and received numerous awards and commendations to include the Combat Air Medal. I met my wonderful wife Jody while I was stationed in Lemoore, Calif., and we have been married for 16 years.

In 2000 I left active duty and was hired

by Northwest Airlines to fly commercially out of Memphis and this brought Jody and I to Tipton County, which we have called home since. I am now an international pilot for Delta Airlines and Jody and I attend St. Alphonsus Church in Covington.

Incumbent, Drummonds

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

I have lived in this county my entire life.

I am a graduate of our school system.

My children and grandchildren are products of Tipton County Schools. My

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

I believe I have been available to listen to the people in my district. I want to continue to be an active member of the school board. Safety and anti-bulling have been part of our agenda over the past years, and I would like to see these concerns remain a top priority.

Constable, Dist. 3

Bert Combs Incumbent, Covington

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

My name is Bert Combs and my wife is Leigh Ann Combs, who is employed with the Tipton County Board of Education as a payroll clerk. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Blakely of Covington. My mother and father are the late Jeanne “Hadley” Combs and the late Mr. Bert Larry Combs of Covington. We have been married for 26 years and have no children. We have lived in District 3 since 1988. We are both members of Trinity Baptist Church. I recently made a merger with my paint corporation, Pro Line Paint Systems Inc. to Single Source Inc. I was offered the position of being there Market Manager for three states and agreed to take this position and run the new corporation. I also own a sporting goods retail store, Hatchie River Outfitters, here in Covington.

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

Over the last four years I have worked with the Sheriff ’s office here in Tipton County on multiple occasions in patrol as well as serving warrants with the SWAT team, and also working See combs, page 23

Incumbent, Brighton

2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

In 1997 I attended the Orange County California Police Officers Standardization and Training Academy (POST) in my spare time as my passion for law enforcement intensified. I graduated from the academy and was hired as a reserve deputy for the Orange County Sheriff ’s Department that same year. When my full time job brought me to Tipton County in 2000 I was hired as a reserve deputy for the Tipton County Sheriff ’s Office. I worked in the Patrol Division, Narcotics Office and on the SWAT Team before successfully running for

Constable District 4. I am a graduate of the Joint Terrorism Task Force - Incident Commander’s School, The Federal Law Enforcement Training Center and SWAT schools. I believe my qualifications, years of experience and training in the Law Enforcement field makes me the best candidate.

3. Why are you running?

I am running for this position because the residents of Tipton County deserve the most qualified candidate who is willing to help them in times of need and enforce the laws with compassion and respect.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

The people of Tipton County should vote for me based on my track record of training, dedication, professionalism and cooperation with all other law enforcement agencies. My service to the citizens is evident in the professionalism I have demonstrated over the course of my 14 years of community service, all in a voluntary capacity.

5. What do you understand to be the role of constables? Why is this an important role in the lives of Tipton Countians? How will you ensure the safety of constituents?

See osborn, page 23

Thursday, July 24, 2014 • Decision 2014 - August Edition • 23

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Constable, Dist. 7

Constable, Dist. 8

Dave Bitzer

Bryan Shigley

Incumbent, Brighton

Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is David Bitzer and I am running for constable of Tipton County District 7. 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. Constables stand ready to aid and assist all citizens and/or agencies within the county. Their mission is to provide additional law enforcement presence in the county and to supplement the county Sheriff ’s Office and the police departments of Tipton County. 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. I have lived in Tipton County on and off for the last 27 years. I spent 24 of those years serving our country in the United States Navy in combat, Military Police, and peace keeping missions. I have also served our community as a Tipton County Deputy Sheriff reserve officer. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and Planning.

As constable for Tipton County District 7, I will use my training and education to serve our community. I am commit-

Challenger, Atoka

ted to crime prevention as well as victim assistance. My goal as constable is to “be available” and provide a high level of quality law enforcement service to the citizens of Tipton County with my focus on District 7. As a highly-qualified and energetic candidate, I am asking for your vote. Please “help me assist you” and the members of the Tipton County law enforcement community. Together we can fight crime and keep Tipton County a great place to live and raise a family. If you would like to talk with me personally, please feel free to contact me at 3518650.

1. Please share with us some background information about you. Tell us about your family – spouse and children, if any – as well as where you work, where you attend church, and what civic organizations, if any, with which you’re involved.

My wife, Carrie, and I moved to Atoka in 2006. We have three children: Alex (12), Conley (6) and Annabelle (4).

Since moving to Atoka I have been involved in coaching youth sports, a Cub Scout leader, and volunteered working with the Atoka Elementary School PTO. 2. What, do you believe, are your qualifications for this office? What makes you the best candidate?

I have a great deal of respect for our local law enforcement officers. We have a great sheriff and police Departments. I will happily assist any of our responders.

3. Why are you running?

I want to be constable to help keep families safe and to provide any assistance needed to our first responders. I want to be an active and visible part of our

community. Many people in our area do not know that we even have a Constable position. I want to, when needed, act as a liaison between law enforcement and our neighborhoods.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

I believe that a constable should work to ensure a safer community. A constable should look out for public safety, inform citizens of concerns like sex offenders and recent criminal activities in the area. As constable I would patrol the neighborhoods of South Atoka and the Simmons Road area to be a visible crime deterrent, inquire about the concerns of citizens and communicate those concerns to the proper department, and volunteer my services where needed to the Sheriff Department, our schools or police department.

osborn,

Continued from page 22 A constable’s role is service - service to the people of Tipton County without additional costs. Tipton County residents work hard and deserve trained law enforcement officers who are answerable to them, the registered voters. If reelected to this position I will continue to receive training and work closely with all other agencies as cooperation and safety go hand in hand.

combs,

Continued from page 22

I’m needed somewhere else.

stables out helping the Sheriff ’s office.

with the drug unit. I have had intense training with the Sheriff ’s office in the S.T.O.P.S. class as well as training in D.U.I and radar. Along with this is the yearly mandated 40 hours of in-service training with the Tennessee Constable Association.

4. Why should the people of Tipton County vote for you? How would you increase the quality of life for our residents? What ideas/changes do you have in mind?

I feel like the citizens of District 3 know that I have worked for them in a professional manner and have always answered any of there questions that theyhave had or gotten them the answers that they were looking for. More officerson patrol mean a safer place for all of us and that includes your Con-

5. It is the job of this position as constable to serve and protect all the citizens of Tipton County. We are sworn into office just as other law enforcement officers are. I have been on calls with the Sheriff ’s Office deputies when things went smooth on the scene, and at other times when you are taken by surprise and everything goes against you all at once. I personally don’t think people really know or understand what our law enforcement officers have to go through every single day to keep us a

3. Why are you running?

To continue providing extra help to the Sheriff ’s office. Also to help protect the citizens in District 3 as well as the citizen through out the entire County if

safe place to live in. Criminals have no value of your life or others, but you still have to make sure that you don’t violate their rights. Tipton County is next door to Memphis, which is one of the worst cities in the nation when it comes to crime. We need to make sure that we have as many officers out on patrol as possible. We need to keep good people in this elected position that conduct themselves in a professional manner and care about what they do and take pride in how they do it.

It is my sincere desire to meet and visit with each voter; however, based upon the size of our district it is not realistic to believe I will accomplish that. I do intend to try. I welcome phone calls, texts or emails to discuss my campaign. You may reach me at 731-443-3516, shanacjohnson@gmail.com or on facebook at ShanaJohnsonforPublicDefender. I am available 24/7 for the people of this district. I encourage you to contact me personally, or to ask those I work with, those I’ve represented, their families, other attorneys, judges, court clerks and/or law enforcement about my qualifications for this position.