Election 2011 THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011
To aid our readers in the upcoming Aug. 2 primary, the Enterprise-Journal has compiled statements from candidates running for seats in Pike, Amite and Walthall counties, as well as posts in the House of Representatives and state Senate that cover these three counties. The Enterprise-Journal staff composed questionnaires and invited candidates to fill them out earlier this year. Candidates were given the opportunity to respond to the questions in their own words. The statements included in this election guide are printed as the candidates wrote them, with minor changes made for spelling, grammar and punctuation. Some candidates did not respond to our questionnaires.
2
ELECTION GUIDE 2011
THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011
ENTERPRISE-JOURNAL, McCOMB, MISSISSIPPI
www.enterprise-journal.com
GOVERNOR n
Dave Dennis PARTY: Republican OCCUPATION: President, Specialty Contractors Inc. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Bachelor’s degree in industrial management systems, Auburn University, 1975 FAMILY: Wife, Jane; daughter, Kate; son, Padrick INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? My top priority as governor
will be job creation. I will work to shape state policy that gets government out of the way for existing businesses so Dennis they can grow and expand: lower taxes, less regulation, stable courts and improved schools and workforce training. I also have the experience to sit down with a corporate CEO to create new opportunities in Mississippi and recruit new investments and new jobs for Mississippi workers.
I’ll use that experience and ability as governor to create jobs. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? The governor of Mississippi is the CEO of the state. The issues for filling that office are similar to what you would look for if you were hiring someone to run a company for you. I have proven job creation experience. I have the leadership necessary to make tough decisions. I know how to recruit opportunities, allocate resources, get the job done while maintaining a real budget. I will find private sector solutions to the challenges facing our
state, not just turn to more government spending and programs like politicians like to do. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? We must continue to focus on job creation and recruiting new jobs and investment to Mississippi and in particular Southwest Mississippi. We must put a halt to outrageous government spending and debt to prevent tax increases. We must ensure our classrooms are fully funded and put the focus of education back on students, parents and teachers. And we must protect our tra-
jobs to Southwest Mississippi will require the state to make investments like the $6 million Regional Workforce Butler Training Center being constructed at Southwest Community College in Summit Mississippi. You could really call it an incubator of sorts because from the smallest companies to our mega-employers like Nissan and Toyota, the Workforce Training Centers have been integral training components, coordinating the resources of our community and junior colleges and our state agencies to ensure that employers can get all the services they need to either be recruited into our state or expand their businesses. We are getting all of our ducks in a row with the Workforce Training Center in my district to make something happen down here. We also need to invest more into education so we can have a better educated workforce. We need to build
more partnerships between counties and the entire region like the PUL Alliance, an economic development partnership between Pontotoc, Union and Lee Counties that formed in 2001and worked together to market the Wellspring Project site, where Toyota located in Northeast Mississippi. PUL showed what is possible when they pulled together all the elected officials, cities, towns and counties to cover every base needed to make the recruitment of Toyota a reality. That is what we need to do as well, pull together all of our resources, market ourselves to the major economic players of the world and start trying to get those large companies to look at Southwest Mississippi and what we have to offer. And we are on the way to doing that with the Regional Workforce Training Center being constructed at SMCC. We are putting it all together to make sure that it happens. What measures can lawmakers take to help the state improve its economic recovery? I refer back to my previous answer. It will take getting
things in place to lure major industry here. Are legislators doing a good job handling government affairs? What specific bill would you bring to the table to make things better? Yes. In January, I plan to re-introduce a bill that would ban texting while driving because I think too many people, especially our young people, put themselves and others at risk by being distracted while driving. During a previous session, I was blessed to be able to introduce and gather support for passage of Senate Bill 2280, which extended by six months the time required for an intermediate and beginning driver to obtain a permanent license as a safety measure in order to save lives. Senate Bill 2280 allows 16-years-old to qualify for an intermediate license, which allows some unsupervised driving, instead of the current age of 15½. It has been proven that the extra time allows teenagers to develop safer driving skills. The bill also bans teens from text messaging while driving.
cilities is a start. The Southwest Mississippi Planning Partnership, which was established to serve the 10 Cockerham counties in Southwest Mississippi, should become one of the premier economic development and marketing support alliance for our region. Cluster among counties is important to the development of our economy in Southwest Mississippi. What measures can lawmakers take to help the state improve its economic recovery? We recently passed legislation, which will establish Kior, a renewable fuel production facility that will be located in Southwest Mississippi. Southwest Mississippi Community College Workforce Training Center will continue to be a number-one item on my legislative agenda, as Southwest Mississippi Community College works with our businesses to create and improve opportunities in the workplace. So, attracting higher-paying jobs to the state improves its economic recovery. However, we must also be more
strategic in our spending and issuance of bonds. Are legislators doing a good job handling government affairs? What specific bill would you bring to the table to make things better? State government in Mississippi is complex, with a small stream of revenue. We must address education, job creation, corrections, tourism , transportation, health, port security and tax reform, just to name a few critical areas. This legislative session, House Bill 403 emerged from the Ways and Means Committee, which increases the amount of bonding for the Mississippi Industry Incentive Financing Revolving Loan Fund. It authorizes the board of supervisors or a municipality to enter into an agreement with an approved business enterprise eligible for a loan from the Mississippi Industry Incentive Financing Revolving Loan Fund. House Bill 1528, on which I was a conferree, creates a new program, the Mississippi Small Business Investment Act, for the issuance of bonds to finance economic development projects. These two measures are good examples of how legislation can provide financing for economic development projects, which en-
hance our local and state government. I will continue to introduce and to support legislation that is proactive and transparent.
ditional, conservative values. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? In hiring Mississippi’s next CEO, voters can choose politics as usual, or business leadership from the private sector. My top priority will be job creation. I am a fiscal and social conservative who believes in low taxes, less spending and smaller gov-
ernment. I am pro-life, pro-traditional family, and I earned the National Rifle Association’s “A” rating. I served as the business voice on the New Orleans Federal Reserve Board and I’ve earned endorsements from Tea Party organizations. My focus as governor will be job creation and growing Mississippi’s economy, just as I have proven for 34 years with my business.
SENATE DISTRICT 38 n
Senator Kelvin Butler PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Retired employee of Delphi Packard Electric Systems in Brookhaven, with more than 30 years of service. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Graduated from South Pike High School and from Meadows Draughon Business College in New Orleans with an Associate Degree in Business Administration. FAMILY: Married to the former Barbara Jackson of Amite County, with whom I share five children, Kevin Jr., Marquita, Kendric, Jadarius and Destiny. INCUMBENT: Yes. Have you held a previous public office? I previously served as alderman in the City of Magnolia from 1991 to 2003, serving in several key positions including as fire and street commissioner. I am the incumbent senator, having served in this capacity since 2004. What can be done, specifically, to bring more higher-paying jobs to southwest Mississippi? To bring more and better
Please Help Elect Wayne H H H H
FRAZIER Assessor
HOUSE DISTRICT 96 n
Angela Cockerham PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Attorney EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Jackson State University, B.A.; Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University, M.A.; Loyola Univeristy, New Orleans School of Law, J.D. FAMILY: Daughter of Grace and Oscar Cockerham INCUMBENT: Yes. What can be done, specifically, to bring more higher-paying jobs to southwest Mississippi? Over the past several years, my message to several of the civic and business organizations has been that the Tupelo Community Development Foundation is a model from which Southwest Mississippi could learn. The Northeast corridor of Mississippi has joined forces and has gone after corporate expansion and the new Toyota Motor Corporation facility. The Mississippi Development Authority assisted; however, the local businesses, government officials and civic organizations laid the groundwork. Southwest Mississippi needs an assessment of its available resources, and a regional business park that has the best technology and business fa-
Pike County
Experience and Integrity Paid for by committee to elect Wayne Frazier.
I am currently a sergeant with the Pike County Sheriff’s Office and am a native and lifelong resident of Chatawa. The job of Constable is a law enforcement position. As with any law enforcement job, the person occupying the position should have a certain level of training and skill in order to safely and successfully carry out the role. I attended Southeastern Louisiana University and majored in Criminal Justice. I graduated from the Mississippi Law Enforcement Officers Training Academy in 2007. Since that time, I have attended additional training schools to better equip myself for the job of a law enforcement professional. A Constable has several duties in the county. One of those is to act as the courtroom bailiff
when the Justice Court is in session. Another duty of the constable is to serve process and warrants issued by the court. I will ensure this duty is performed expeditiously and with neutrality towards all parties. A paramount duty of the Constable is keeping the peace in the county. While the chief law enforcement functions in the county are statutorily given to the Sheriff’s Office, or the Municipal Police inside a town or city, you have the right to expect all of your county public safety officers to have the ability to react to not only motor vehicle accidents, but domestic violence situations, major violent crime, and white collar and property crimes as well. My experience as a deputy sheriff will enable me to handle these accidents as necessary, and work hand in hand with all of our police agencies to give you the service and assistance you deserve.
ON AUGUST 2, 2011 VOTE FOR EXPERIENCE • Served the last four years as the District Three Supervisor •Over Twenty Years Experience as the County Administrator/Comptroller •Four and one-half years experience auditing County Governments • Have applied for or administered numerous grants benefitting Pike County Citizens. • Prepared Pike County’s Financial Records, and received an excellent rating from the State Auditor’s Office as a result of their Audits.
VOTE TO RE-ELECT CHUCK E. LAMBERT DISTRICT 3 SUPERVISOR IN THE DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY Please consider this my personal request for your vote. I want to continue working for you as your District Three Supervisor. The polls will be open from 7:00 AM until 7:00 PM. Please remember to go vote and vote to re-elect Chuck E. Lambert District Three Supervisor of Pike County. Copy approved and paid for by Friends to re-elect Chuck Lambert, District 3 Supervisor.
Brittney & Tim Wroten, Haleigh & Ryan Cowart, Jeanne & Chance Wroten
EXPERIENCE
H Narcotics Unit - 10 years H Amite Co. Sheriff ’s Office - 14 years H Chief Deputy - 3 years H Gloster Police Dept. - 4 years H Served as Member of Smithdale Fire Dept. I’m a lifetime resident of Amite County. I love this county & it’s residents. It’s been my pleasure to serve you for the past 24 years. Please vote for me on August 2nd & let me continue to serve you.
TRAINING CERTIFICATES H Mississippi Law Enforcement Training Academy
H Basic Narcotic Investigations Seminar H Apprehension of the Traveling Criminal H Advanced Accident Investigation H Collection and Preservation of Evidence H Tactical Techniques for Drug Enforcement H Drug Identification and Narcotics H Crime Scene Investigation H National Rifle Association Police Expert
ELECTION GUIDE 2011
ENTERPRISE-JOURNAL, McCOMB, MISSISSIPPI
THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011
www.enterprise-journal.com
HOUSE DISTRICT 97 n
Sam Mims PARTY: Republican OCCUPATION: Physician relations and education representative for Promise Hospital of Miss Lou. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: 1990 McComb High School graduate; B.B.A. in marketing from Delta State University, 1994. FAMILY: Son of Sam and Betty Sue Mims of McComb; wife, the former Amy Legg of Summit; two daughters and one son. INCUMBENT: Yes. Have you held a previous public office? I was elected State Representative for District 97 in 2003 and re-elected in 2007. In 2012, I will begin my ninth year in the Mississippi Legislature. What can be done, specifically, to bring more higher-paying jobs to southwest Mississippi? We must continue to focus on workforce training with our community colleges. There are many students who will not attend a two- or four-year college but need to have a trade in order to provide for themselves and their families. All parties involved, from your local legislative delegation, city officials, county officials and economic development leaders, must have a common goal. We must remember how important it is to create an environment in which our citizens can find good-paying jobs that support their families and allow them to
continue living and raising their families in southwest Mississippi. The partnership between local Mims counties is a wonderful way to pool the resources and provide more incentives to attract new companies and improve existing businesses. We must always remember any jobs that are created in southwest Mississippi benefit the entire region. Our citizens will travel for good, rewarding careers. What measures can lawmakers take to help the state improve its economic recovery? We have to realize we have been in one of the worst recessions ever in the history of our state and country. Mississippi entered into the recession very slowly and it will continue to move out of the recession very slowly. We have to continue to focus on attracting new industry to our region and our state. There is always an effort at the Capitol to spend more money than we have and to increase taxes. I will continue to oppose raising taxes, and we must continue to spend less than we bring in. We are fortunate that we still have funds in our “rainy day account,” but we must spend it wisely. Spending less than we bring in and not raising taxes will help our economy.
At this stage of the recession, we cannot forget that our state economy is also tied to the national economy. Since Washington is in such financial disarray, we must act responsibly. Are legislators doing a good job handling government affairs? What specific bill would you bring to the table to make things better? I believe many legislators are serving for the right reasons. We may have different ideas on how to improve our state, but the goal should be the same: to help make Mississippi a great place to live and raise a family. As a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives, I realize I work for the taxpayers of Mississippi and we must all remember this. Legislators must also be honest with their constituents. During this deep recession, we simply cannot fund every project or program that may benefit many citizens in Mississippi. We can only appropriate monies that the taxpayer has provided to the state of Mississippi. I believe Mississippians want to hear the truth from their elected officials about the state of the economy. My focus in the 2012 legislative session will be the budget and being involved in the new leadership in the Mississippi House of Representatives. I am currently working on several pieces of legislation that would have a positive impact on the state of Mississippi and its citizens.
What can be done, specifically, to bring more higher-paying jobs to southwest Mississippi? One thing we can do is to Myers get all of the local cities, towns and boards pulling together as one to bring in better paying jobs. We can also form a pact with other counties in our area to pool our money together. What measures can lawmakers take to help the state improve its economic recovery?
Lawmakers can create better incentive packages for companies who are willing to locate in our state. Are legislators doing a good job handling government affairs? What specific bill would you bring to the table to make things better? Yes, but we can do a better job. I will continue to push for more money out of Ways and Means to help cities, towns and local boards with economic development projects. My plan is to put more money into MDA for local economic development project use. I will do this through our state bond bill, which we do every year.
ON AUGUST 2ND WHEN YOU ELECT
ROGER GRAVES CIRCUIT CLERK
YOU ARE GETTING MORE THAN A PROVEN LEADER WITH MORE THAN 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE
HOUSE DISTRICT 98 n
David Myers PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Lead inspector EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: High school grad; B.S. Criminal Justice, University of Phoenix FAMILY: Wife, Brenda Myers; three children, Lakisha, Michael D. and Michael J.; two grandchildren, London and Michael C. INCUMBENT: Yes. Have you held a previous public office? Yes, formerly as a McComb selectman and currently as state representative.
PIKE COUNTY SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 1 n
Tazwell Bowsky PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Public servant, current Pike County Supervisor EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Graduate, McComb Public Schools; Prentiss Community College INCUMBENT: Yes Have you held a previous public office? Yes, 12 years as Pike County supervisor, serving third term. Why do you want to serve in a public office? Being a Pike County Supervisor allows me, as a
Bowsky
public servant, to help all of the citizens of Pike County. This office is much larger than me, and I am proud to serve in this
capacity. With cutbacks in state and federal dollars possible, name two ways supervisors can cut back on spending to avoid unnecessary tax increases. First, create a budget that falls within the current fiscal year, with restraints. Second, look for, if any,
bonds refinancing as this current board did, resulting in $190,000 in savings to the county, and use all grants available (national, state and local) in PDD. Third, stay within your budget. Do supervisors have any role in funding recreation in the county, and if so, what are some things they can do? There is no current funding for recreation countywide. However, we should additionally look for and identify areas in all parts of this county for locations to facilitate some.
SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 2 n
Faye Lowery Hodges PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Substitute teacher, South Pike High School; part-time secretary, Storehouse Church EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: South Pike High School graduate; B.S. in business management, Jackson State University; M.B.A. in finance, Atlanta University; worked for Internal Revenue Service for seven years as a process reviewer and tax auditor. FAMILY: My husband, Napoleon; four children, Johnathan, 22, Anna 22 married to Justin Charles Bruce of Madison, Sarah 19 and Rachel 18; one grandchild, Justin Nathaniel Bruce. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? As county supervisor, I will have the ability to make a positive impact on Pike
Hodges
County. Also this is a position for which my work ethics and experience match perfectly. It is my desire to serve residents of
District 2. With cutbacks in state and federal dollars possible, name two ways supervisors can cut back on spending to avoid unnecessary tax increases. 1) Establish a detailed budget: Planning is a very important element in the successful operation of county government. A detailed budget must be established and implemented. The budget should provide funding for the essential functions of the county. It should also include funding for emergency spending. 2) Stick to the budget: Throughout the year, some amendments to the budget may be required. However, supervisors must exercise
discipline to assure county residents that they indeed intend to adhere to budget guidelines. Sticking to the budget will prevent overspending. Do supervisors have any role in funding recreation in the county, and if so, what are some things they can do? Supervisors can play a role in funding recreation in the county. Since the current economy is not strong and state and federal cutbacks are possible, the supervisors can partner with organizations within the county that currently operate recreational facilities. The potential fees for our county residents’ use of existing facilities is far less expensive than the county building and operating its own recreational facilities.
TAKE ACTION. REPORT LITTER AND ILLEGAL DUMPS.
PIKE COUNTY: 249-4694.
YOU ARE GETTING A WINNING TEAM THAT ALREADY KNOWS THE JOB!!!
ROGER GRAVES—CIRCUIT CLERK DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY AUGUST 2ND Approved by Roger Graves and Paid for by Friends to Elect Roger Graves.
3
4
ELECTION GUIDE 2011
THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011
ENTERPRISE-JOURNAL, McCOMB, MISSISSIPPI
www.enterprise-journal.com
SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 2, CONTINUED n
Clyde L. Isaac Jr.
Jimmy Dale McDaniel
PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Retired, Entergy Mississippi EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: High school graduate; four years active duty, United States Air Force; 36 years service to Entergy Mississippi Corp. in construction FAMILY: Wife, Tabitha; Children, Isaac Tonya Andrews, Shewonda Tate, Rhonda Isaac, Eurea Carter, Brandye Carson and Tafrica Leggett. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? I see this as an opportunity for me to improve Pike County and serve its citizens. With cutbacks in state and federal dollars possible, name two ways supervisors can cut back on spending to avoid unnecessary tax increases. The road work going on is good for making the roads better, but I feel it is a waste of time for the workers. Money is being spent for extra trips to the roads to patch up holes, and our taxpayers’ money is going t oward that. Do supervisors have any role in funding recreation in the county, and if so, what are some things they can do? They can bring in recreation parks in order to give the young kids a place to go. We should look into investing dollars into recreation county-wide, providing a central location with the facilities for teeangers and youngsters to help keep them out of trouble.
PARTY: Republican OCCUPATION: Retired from the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services, 35 years of service includes 20 years as the rehabilitation counselor for the blind in Southwest Mississippi with my office in McComb, 15 years as assistive techMcDaniel nology specialist, and ending my career as director of the assistive technology division for the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: South Pike High School graduate; Associate of Arts, SMCC; B.S., University of Southern Mississippi; graduate work and advanced study, Mississippi State University. FAMILY: Wife, Sheila; children, Logan, Courtney and John. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? I not only have an invested interest in Pike County and her future, I have a genuine love for her people, the land and the history of our county. These are truly difficult economic times requiring innovative leadership from all public officials. I sincerely believe I have the skills (education, management and personal) necessary to make a significant difference. With cutbacks in state and federal dollars possible, name two ways supervisors can cut back on spending to avoid unnecessary tax increases.
1. Standing up to special interests within our county and no longer using taxpayer’s monies to buy votes or settle political debts. County projects must be evaluated on their merits … “county wide,” not necessarily based on the needs of a specific district. 2. Promote the understanding that government spending does not in itself create prosperity. Alternative funding sources including the private sector must be utilized. Pike County should be viewed as a “single unit” with the county and municipalities working together for the betterment of all. The interest and wellbeing of Osyka directly affects economic health of Summit. To quote a 20th Century logician, “the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few.” Do supervisors have any role in funding recreation in the county, and if so, what are some things they can do? In many ways county supervisors should provide leadership and guidance in all county related activities; however, I do not believe that direct funding or promoting of recreational activities is a responsibility of the Board of Supervisors. Job creation and infrastructure remain a top priority. In these times, funding is a major concern in any project we propose, we must place our emphasis where we can do the most good for the most people.
Martin, Sherlia Martin and Connie Martin. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? Yes, six years on Magnolia Board of Aldermen Why do you want to serve in a public office? If given the opportunity to serve again, I will serve honestly and fairly without fear Quinn or favor for my friends and neighbors in Pike County. I will donate 25 percent of my supervisor monthly salary to the Volunteer Fire Departments of Fernwood and Magnolia. I will donate an additional 25 percent of my supervisor monthly salary to the Economic Development Authority of Pike County. With cutbacks in state and federal dollars possible, name two ways supervisors can cut back on spending to avoid unnecessary tax increases. 1) Hiring freeze on county supervisors. 2) No salary increase for county employees. Do supervisors have any role in
PARTY: Republican OCCUPATION: Caregiver and mail order business owner. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Graduate of South Pike Schools and Mississippi Valley State University FAMILY: Son of Dewitt Quinn; three siblings: John
PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Pike County Supervisor District 3; owner, Lambert’s Accounting, and Chief Financial Office for Summit Health and Rehab Services EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Associate Arts, Copiah-Lincoln Community College; B.S.B.A., USM FAMILY: Wife, Anna; children, Mary Jane Lambert and Karen, married to Chris Bonner with two children, Cohen and Cooper. INCUMBENT: Yes. Have you held a previous public office? Yes, current incumbent; and was appointed Pike County Administrator Why do you want to serve in a public office? Because it is something I enjoy, and I like helping people. I want to continue using the knowledge and experi-
our local municipalities to maintain our current recreation facilities, as well as developing new facilities and programs.
PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Instructor, Southwest Bible College in Brookhaven; Pastor, Walker’s Chapel Free Will Baptist Church EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: graduate, Prentiss High School; Pearl River Community College; United States Army; Cameron University; Oklahoma Partman School of Religion-Lawton, Okla.; SMCC; Bachelor of Theology, A.P. Clay Bible College of Metarie, LA; Master of Theology, A.P. Clay FAMILY: Wife, Linda; Children, Alleciah Rodejah, G’yana LinToria and Kievonte Partman INCUMBENT: No.
N
PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Self-employed, James L. Etheridge Companies LLC, building construction, home inspector and realtor EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: McComb High School graduate; certified mold inspector of Environmental Solutions Association; certified EPA Lead Paint Inspector/Renovator of Mississippi State University. FAMILY: Son of Jessie Etheridge and the late Ernest Etheridge of McComb; wife, Dottie McElveen Etheridge. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? By serving the people of the 4th District as supervisor, I believe I can make a difference in Pike County. I can draw upon my 36 years of experience as a businessman to help make the difficult decisions facing Pike County. My commitment is to help
Paid for by Debbie Kirkland.
money without cutting services. 2) I would research the cost effect of leasing equipment versus purchasing. 3) Another option is a hiring freeze that would not impede county services. Do supervisors have any role in funding recreation in the county, and if so, what are some things they can do? I certainly believe that the county has a role in recreation. However, it should be considered a lower priority than jobs, education, safety and roads. I think the county, city, surrounding towns and schools should jointly fund this. If funding for this requires raising taxes, I vote no. The decision to increase taxes should be determined by the citizens on a special ballot. I would favor recreational facilities that could produce income for the county. One example is a sports facility that would be used by groups from outside the county— similiar to the one at Snowden Grove in Desoto County.
N
Elect
ROBERT N
MAKE A DIFFERENCE • • • • • • • •
n
create jobs, lower property insurance premiums of county residents and maintain quality roads to encourage Etheridge growth in Pike County. By using my leadership skills, I will work diligently with the other supervisors to accomplish our goals. I want to give back to the county and pledge to get the job done. With cutbacks in state and federal dollars possible, name two ways supervisors can cut back on spending to avoid unnecessary tax increases. As an elected official, I will make sound financial decisions, just as I have as a businessman. Pike County needs to budget based on income, just as we do at home. My goal would be to provide the same services with less income. Here are a number of ways that this can be accomplished: 1) I would investigate outsourcing services to private businesses, which could save
KIRKLAND Amite County Circuit Clerk
Gregory Partman
SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 4 James Etheridge
Debbie Reid
During the time you elected me as supervisor, I have paved 85 miles of roads. This was 73 roads that you have traveled on as gravel for years. I’ve had 10 new concrete bridges built, with more on the way. This next term I will finish paving all the roads in the 5th District. I know I won’t see all of you before the election, but please consider my record as your supervisor. I made one promise when you elected me, I said I would always be Max, I have not changed. If I can be of service feel free to call: 601-542-5810 (Home), 601-542-5004 (County), 601-249-9178 (Cell). Thank You, Max
n
ence I obtained, from having spent the better part of my adult life serving the public, first as an auditor of county governments with the State Department of Audit for 41/2 years, then as Pike County Administrator for 211/2 years and the last 31/2 years as the Pike County District 3 Supervisor, to benefit the citizens of Pike County. With cutbacks in state and federal dollars possible, name two ways supervisors can cut back on spending to avoid unnecessary tax increases. 1) By using new technology to operate government in a more cost-efficient and effective manner. 2) By evaluating all county departments/programs to determine those that are the most cost-efficient and eliminate the ones that are not. Do supervisors have any role in funding recreation in the county, and if so, what are some things they can do? Yes, I believe supervisors do have a role in funding recreation in the county. I feel we need to work with various state agencies and
Vote for Our “Mema”
Dennis C. Quinn
SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 3 Chuck E. Lambert
funding recreation in the county, dren: Derrick, Fredrick and and if so, what are some things Denise Tobias and Micsha Woodall they can do? No, but I will propose hirINCUMBENT: No. ing a grant writer to work Have you with Percy Quin State Park, held a previous the Pike County Fair Assopublic office? ciation and local water No. park. Why do you want to serve in a public office? Dennis E. Tobias I feel with my prior busiPARTY: Democrat ness and leadOCCUPATION: Business own- Tobias ership experier, 20 years EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Al- ence, I will be an asset to the community and county as corn State University FAMILY: Wife, Lucy; chil- Pike District 2 Supervisor.
N
For
SHERIFF PIKE COUNTY
Son of the late Bobby McNabb, and Wayne and Mardell Forrest of Kentwood, LA Married to Angela Hall McNabb, daughter of Cecil and Barbara Hall, of Pike County, MS Father to Jessie McNabb (3yrs.), Will McNabb (17yrs.) & the late Jordan McNabb (21yrs.) Active member of Silver Creek Baptist Church Graduate of Southern Regional Law Enforcement Academy 2006 Pike County Deputy of the Year • Former Pike County Sheriff’s Deputy Seargent and SWAT Team Member • Former Police Officer for Tylertown & Osyka Over 20 years working in blue collar industry, including plant coordination & supervision Tired of Drugs? Tired of Burglaries? Ready for a Change? ELECT ROBERT McNABB FOR SHERIFF. TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE! THE WAY I SEE IT, I WORK FOR YOU! If you would like to help with this campaign, contact: The McNabb Family at 2030 Dykes Walthall County Road, McComb, Mississippi 39648 (601) 783-5893 • (601) 810-1336
N
Paid for by Robert McNabb.
Local Group Endorses Ronnie Clark for Sheriff of Amite County People of Amite County are Watching the Race for Sheriff Very Closely And Wanting Change... For this reason, the non-profit organization “Citizens for Law Enforcement in Amite County “ is endorsing Ronnie Clark for Sheriff of Amite County. Ronnie has a background in law enforcement as a police officer for many years, as well as, an education in both law enforcement and business administration. Ronnie Clark shares the same Christian values as we do which will make him a good sheriff for all the people of this county. He was born and raised in Amite County, attended Amite County schools and has a deep concern for it‘s citizens. We believe Ronnie Clark will use his experience to attack the drug problem in Amite County and his platform is simple: Use Common Sense along with Compassion and Fairness! We the members of the organization, Citizens for Law Enforcement in Amite County, proudly endorse Ronnie Clark for Sheriff of Amite County.
On Tuesday, August 2, 2011, please join us and cast your vote for Ronnie Clark. Paid for by the non-profit organization, “Citizens for Law Enforcement in Amite County”: cleac2011@aol.com
ELECTION GUIDE 2011
ENTERPRISE-JOURNAL, McCOMB, MISSISSIPPI
THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011
5
www.enterprise-journal.com
SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 4, CONTINUED n
Randall C. Love, Sr. PARTY: Republican OCCUPATION: Owner, Gulf States Fence and Gulf States U-STOR EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: 1975 McComb High School graduate; attended Southwest Mississippi Community College and the University of Southern Mississippi. FAMILY: Son of C.H. “P.K.” Love and the late Grace Love; wife, Rhonda Dickey Love; three children and one grandson. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? Yes, Pike County Constable Why do you want to serve in a public office? I have served the people of Pike County throughout my entire life, serving 12 years in law enforcement and 30 years as a volunteer firefighter for the town of Summit. I feel the time is right for a business person to step up to help lead Pike County through these changing times. With cutbacks in state and federal dollars possible, name two ways supervisors can cut back on spending to avoid unnecessary tax increases. A) One way is to maintain roads and bridges with the use of a preventative main-
tenance program, which would prolong the life expectancy of these assets and allow for more extensive mainteLove nance cost to be budgeted for in the future. This should fall under a fouror five-year road/business plan. This concept could be applied to all county assets (buildings, vehicles, equipment, etc.). B) Supervisors should work with department heads to ensure that tax services are being provided for in the most efficient manner possible. These two suggestions should be in place at all times, not just times of economic hardship. Do supervisors have any role in funding recreation in the county, and if so, what are some things they can do? Yes, supervisors have a roll in funding recreation in Pike County. One way is to continue efforts to develop a multipurpose building that could accommodate events such as equestrian/livestock/car shows, etc. Not only do these types of events provide recreation, but they also attract visitors and revenue to the county.
Neal Randall PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Retired principal/counselor/coach, South Pike and North Pike School Districts; Consultant, Mississippi Department of Education; Adjunct professor, SMCC Workforce Center. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: McComb High School; SMCC; Delta State University, B.S., M.Ed. FAMILY: Wife, Betsy; daughter, Shannon Anderson; stepchildren, Brinson Wall and Mary Helen Wall; five grandchildren. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? I believe that every person owes their community a certain amount, and I would like to play an active role in helping Pike County improve the quality of life for all its citizens. I would like to assist our leadership in bringing additional job opportunities for our citizens. By bringing in more business and industry this allows some of the tax burden to be shifted from property owners. In the effort to attract more business and industry to Pike County, I believe it is imperative to join
with our neighboring counties and pool our resources so that our voices might be better heard. The new Randall Workforce Center at Southwest Mississippi Community College may well be the catalyst to bring us together. This center will allow locals to be trained and ready for any new employer to Southwest Mississippi. In essence, I want to work to bring more jobs in our area that pay a livable wage and reduce the tax burden on the landowners. If elected, I will be a full-time supervisor for the people of the 4th District. With cutbacks in state and federal dollars possible, name two ways supervisors can cut back on spending to avoid unnecessary tax increases. As attrition (retirement, quitting, etc.) occurs, the board of supervisors should not determine if county services can continue uninterrupted if the positions are not filled, and this should be done on a position-by-position basis. The board of supervisors should continue to evaluate all expenditures to ensure maximum benefits for the
taxpayers. I do not think it is wise to become too dependent on federal dollars. We should strive to live within our means. The board of supervisors should work together to find grants to continue county services that may have been federally funded. Do supervisors have any role in funding recreation in the county, and if so, what are some things they can do?
The board of supervisors should always support recreation programs in the county. Having been involved with youth baseball for over 40 years, I am well aware of the importance of these activities. As funding becomes available in Pike County, I would wholeheartedly support such programs that would enhance the quality of life for our citizens.
CIRCUIT CLERK n
Roger Graves PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Pike County Circuit Clerk EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Bachelor of Science; Master of Education, educational administration emphasis; Specialist in Education with educational administration emphasis FAMILY: Wife, Carol Anne McRaney Graves; children, Scott (Debbie Knight; Meg Ellen and Lincoln) and Rebecca (Adam Greer; Allyn and Layne). INCUMBENT: Yes. Have you held a previous public office? I am the incumbent circuit clerk. Why do you want to serve in a public office? To make a positive difference and to use my knowledge and experience to minister to people that the circuit clerk’s position has allowed me to come in contact with. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? My experience, leadership and qualifications. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? Continue to implement the technological changes and to remain as one of the best circuit clerk’s offices in the state of Mississippi. How does your background and
experience prepare you for this office? My experience as principal at North Pike Elementary and the background Graves and experience I have received through being Circuit Clerk have taught me to be able to deal with people of all backgrounds and to treat all people the same. It has been my joy for the last 231/2 years as circuit clerk to help people.
Anthony Witherspoon PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Community organizer/paralegal for One Voice, a public policy, research and training institute), associate minister of New Zion Baptist Church in Magnolia and St. Paul M.B. Church in Fernwood. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: 1988 graduate of South Pike High, Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management from Belhaven College, pursuing a master’s in public administration. FAMILY: Married 18 years to Tammy Felder Witherspoon; two sons, Anthony II, 16, and Amani, 6. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office?
I have an extensive history in public service. I strongly believe in community service; thereWitherspoon fore, holding public office will allow me the opportunity to make the best of that passion. Elected or not, I will continue my service to the community. In my opinion, it is a duty that we are all called to do. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? As I spoke with people on the campaign trail, most express concerns about confusion at the voting precincts. Confusion results in challenges, lawsuits and special elections, which ultimately results in saving for taxpayers. Producing accurate voting rolls will be a priority. Other priorities will be to increase the number of registered voters in the county, and encourage voter participation. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? If elected I will look into making some of the services rendered by the clerk’s office accessible online. If you search the Internet, you'll find that many circuit clerks’ websites offer its constituents the option of paying fines and
RE-ELECT
Doug H H H H
TOUCHSTONE CHANCERY CLERK Keep Experience, Integrity & Helpful Service Working For You. Democratic Primary Election — August 2nd • Married 44 years to the former Judy Allred • Father of four children. Grandfather of seven • 11 years experience serving as YOUR Chancery Clerk • 71 years combined office staff experience • Deacon of Union Primitive Baptist Church • Served 20 years on North Pike Schools’ Board of Trustees • Served 3 years in the Mississippi National Guard • Member of McComb Lions Club • Member of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce • Member of the South Pike/Magnolia Chamber of Commerce
Re-Elect Doug Touchstone Pike County Chancery Clerk Paid for by Friends to Re-Elect Doug Touchstone.
DON’T MISS A DAY OF LOCAL NEWS. To subscribe to the Enterprise-Journal, Call 684-2713.
certain administrative fees online. Why should Pike County trail the others? We should be trailblazers. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? I’m an experienced manager and supervisor, I work well with co-workers, subordinates and the public. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management and I am currently pursuing a master’s in public administration. I’m currently employed as a program director for a public policy research and training institute. My experience working as a paralegal allows me to understand the role the clerk’s office plays in the court.
A minimum of $1,000,00000 or MORE— that’s what Pike County homeowners could save annually in insurance if we were to create firegrading districts throughout the county. Individual homeowners could see hundreds or even thousands in savings a year. A fire-grading district is an area not greater than 5 road miles from a fire station. Pike County currently has only 3 graded districts and is in need of at least 7 more to efficiently cover the whole county. By creating these fire districts, we can lower fire insurance premiums for all the people of Pike County. If this effort were to effect just 2,000 individuals at an average savings of $50000 per individual, this would meet the estimated figure previously mentioned above. Information provided by constituents of the 4th district indicates that savings could be even greater than $50000 annually per individual. One homeowner in the Hwy. 98 West area was quoted an $1,10000 annual savings, and a business owner in that same area was quoted a $4,00000 annual savings for their insurance. Another homeowner north of Summit was quoted a $2,00000 annual savings on their insurance if the area were to become a fire-graded district. To accomplish my goal of having a fire-graded Pike County, it would be necessary to spend $750,00000 to $850,00000 for these new fire stations. This money would be a one-time purchase with return savings seen in the very first year for the people of Pike County and annually thereafter. This money is to be allocated out of the budget and not through any new tax increase. These districts would also provide additional safety through quicker responses to the people of these areas. This is just one way that we can make a difference in the lives of the people and the future of Pike County.
6
ELECTION GUIDE 2011
THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011
ENTERPRISE-JOURNAL, McCOMB, MISSISSIPPI
www.enterprise-journal.com
CHANCERY CLERK n
Doug Touchstone PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Pike County Chancery Clerk, 111/2 years EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: High school, business college, 12 Mississippi Chancery Clerk Association Judicial Training Courses. FAMILY: Married to the former Judy Allred; three sons: Kevin, Kyle, and Kirk Touchstone; one daughter, Kristy Palen; seven grandchildren. INCUMBENT: Yes. Have you held a previous public office? Elected and served 20 years on North Pike School
Touchstone
Board of Trustees. Served for the past 111/2 years as Pike County Chancery Clerk. Why do you want to serve in
a public office? I want to continue to give good service and be helpful to all citizens of Pike County. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? Which candidate has the experience and is best qualified to operate the office of the Chancery Clerk. If elected, what changes/im-
provements, if any, would you try to make? Continue to offer and improve our electronic data through Internet and e-mail access. And continue to work to help with mental health issues. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? My serving on a school board, having operated my own successful business for 25years and serving as the Pike County Chancery Clerk for the past 111/2 years well prepares me to serve as Pike County Chancery Clerk.
Jimmie L. Winn
tax assessor. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? The tax assessor office appraises all land, buildFrazier ings and improvements that contribute to the value of your property. These values are how your property taxes are calculated. If elected, I will strive to have property values fairly assessed as to the value of your property and to reflect the decrease or increase as to your property. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? I propose to provide sound leadership that will bring the tax assessor’s office updated to be very user-friendly. I will provide effective and userfriendly customer service for all of our taxpayers. I will strive to have the tax assessor’s office be transparent,
accountable and accessible to all taxpayers. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? All of my experience has contributed to my knowledge of property values throughout Pike County. Licensed real estate broker and agent for more than 16 years; licensed real estate appraiser for eight years; Pike County business owner- Frazier Realty; consulted for residential and commercial development projects.
public office? I have run a business for the last 28 years and I’ve served my community in a business capacity. Now I Winn want to serve as a public figure. I want to serve in a public office so I can give back to this community. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? We would like to see the office be more automated — to increase the use of technology through e-mail, Internet, etc. I want to upgrade the office to the 21st century.
If elected, what changes/improvements would you try to make? We want to streamline the office of the chancery clerk. I will work to get the communication out faster and work on ways to communicate with the people more efficiently. How does your background and experience prepare you for office? I have been a business owner and in the business world for the last 28 years. I have vast experience in dealing with the public, so I feel that I am experienced for this office. I have worked with many different types of people, which prepares me for the position in a public office.
PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Marketing, public relations and client development director for three national law firms, owner of two companies, Minority Marketing Solutions and Property Marketing Solutions EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: McComb Public School System;
Numerous Business and Corporate Seminars, etc. FAMILY: Son of the late Shirley Ann Eubanks of Eubanks McComb; three daughters, two sons and awaiting one grandchild. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? Like the majority of the citizens of Pike County, I have never held public office before. I believe this allows me to bring fresh ideas to the office of Pike County tax assessor. It’s time for a change. Why do you want to serve in a public office? I would like to give a voice to the citizens of Pike County that haven’t had one, those that have felt the pinch of high taxes in these hard times. It’s time that the Pike County tax assessor’s office
understands that it works for the citizens of Pike County and not the other way around. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? The issues for this campaign are to end the current lawsuits against office of tax assessor first and foremost. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? If elected I will institute quarterly seminars to educate the citizens of Pike County as to how the tax assessing process works, so they can make informed decisions. I will work with businesses to bring jobs to Pike County. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? My legal and public relations background prepares me to implement a more citizen- and business-friendly environment that currently doesn’t exist at the Pike County tax assessor’s office.
businesses submit taxes on time as my upmost priority. By doing so, I will fairly serve as a customer representative in tax collections, including compassionate communication to those who struggle to pay taxes.
How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? My lifetime interest has been my family, church and love for car restoration. My professional involvement in managing a busi-
ness for 20 years, serving the customer in a professional, knowledgeable and honest way, I believe will be necessary and beneficial to the office of Pike County tax collector.
PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Owner, Agent- Winn’s Insurance Agency EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Graduate, Coahoma Junior College; Jackson State University; insurance agent, 28 years; Licensed Designation II 25 years LUTCFII. FAMILY: Wife of 30 years, Linda Hampton Winn; five daughters, Ivy, Patisha, Veronica, Vanessa, and Brittany. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a
TAX ASSESSOR n
Jim Duckworth PARTY: Republican OCCUPATION: Deputy Assessor EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Junior college; general appraiser’s license; MAE designation FAMILY: Wife, Dorothy; four children, Justin Duckworth, Lindsey Huber, Duckworth Colette Sanford and Brooke Beard. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? 22-plus years in the Tax Assessor’s office; 30 years appraisal experience If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? Maintain current exper-
tise/integrity of office. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? Follow current statutes and guidelines set forth by Mississippi Department of Revenue.
Wayne Frazier PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Real estate broker EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: 1969 Kentwood High School graduate; LSU 19691970; SLU 1970-1971; Real Estate Broker, Appraiser FAMILY: Wife, Margaret; sons, Brandon and Blake; two grandchildren. INCUMBENT: No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? Pike County is a great place to live and raise a family. I have worked in the private sector all my life, and I want to use my experience and training to keep Pike County great by serving as
Albert Francis ‘Boody’ Eubanks
TAX COLLECTOR n
Gwendolyn Nunnery PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Tax Assessor/Collector EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Graduate, North Pike High School; Bachelor of Science, University of Southern Mississippi. FAMILY: husband, Thad Nunnery, 49; children, Tylere, 19, and Raven, 1. INCUMBENT: Yes. Why do you want to serve in a public office? As a lifelong resident of Pike County, I am dedicated to working and serving our community. I have been a dedicated employee for the past 27 years in the Pike County tax collector’s office. These years of experience have given me an opportunity to expand and enhance the services provided to the people of Pike County. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? My years of experience have allowed me to see the office operate from the very basic collection methods to advanced technology in the collection of the different classes of property — real, business, public utility, motor vehicles and mobile homes — while maintaining the state’s requirement for collections and disbursements of collected funds. The vision for the office is to strive for the most advanced methods in technology for the collection and disbursement of these collected funds, while providing professional, courteous and experienced service to the peo-
Nunnery
ple of Pike County with the highest level of integrity. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you
try to make? If I am elected to the office of tax collector, we will move aggressively toward implementing an online payment procedure for tax collections and motor vehicle registrations. This payment option will allow the citizens of Pike County another payment method other than coming into the office or mailing in payments. We will continue to provide efficient, qualified and courteous services to the people of Pike County and will strive to improve upon that service at every opportunity. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? My 27-year tenure has allowed me to receive valuable experience on all levels in the office. My educational background has equipped me with the necessary skills needed for expanding services and embracing technology for the betterment of Pike County. Being employed as deputy clerk, assistant bookkeeper and chief deputy clerk has provided a thorough working knowledge of the office operations: the collection process, disbursement of funds, state’s audit process and of-
fice management. My experience in this office has also given me an understanding of how vital the services provided by this office are to the operation of the entire county. This office has the responsibility of working closely with all other county offices to ensure that Pike County flourishes and is successful, which is paramount to the growth of the county. I feel that my years of experience qualify me as the better candidate for the office of Pike County tax collector.
ELECT
Scotty H. Whittington Superintendent of Education • Amite County
Randy Strickland PARTY: Republican OCCUPATION: Retired owner of Strickland Auto Sales after 20 years in business; employed with South Pike school transportation and selfemployed doing complete car restoraStrickland tion. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: 1974 Parklane Academy graduate; 1976 SMCC graduate, Associate of Arts with accounting emphasis. FAMILY: Son of the late Percy and Sharon Strickland of Osyka; wife, Tammy Wallace Strickland; a daughter, Tiffany, married to Jeffrey Lala; a son, Blake. INCUMBENT: No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? As Pike County tax collector, I will commit to ensure that individuals and
For the past thirty six years, it has been my pleasure and privilege to coach and teach young people. Now, I want to further serve you as Superintendent of Education. Without a better school system we will not attract businesses or industry. If you are not satisfied with the state of our public schools today, then vote for me in the General Election on November 8th. Thank you!
Scotty H. Whittington Honesty - Dedication - Experience Copy approved and paid for by Scotty Whittington
CONSTABLE, SOUTHERN DISTRICT n
John Dan Speed PARTY: Republican OCCUPATION: Sergeant, Pike County Sheriff ’s Office. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Five years local law enforcement. FAMILY: Wife, Brook; son, John. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? To further my service for the people of this county. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? The people of Pike County deserve a qualified candidate for constable. If elected, what changes/im-
Southeastern Louisiana University, where I majored in criminal justice, graduated from the Mississippi Law Enforcement Officer Training Academy in Pearl, attended numerous schools and seminars to better prepare myself to serve this Speed community. I have served five years working in local justice court. How does your background and law enforcement and am experience prepare you for this of- currently a first-line supervisor with the sheriff ’s office, fice? I attended SMCC and and a SWAT team member. provements, if any, would you try to make? I would work to ensure that all the citizens of Pike County have an efficiently run
Subscribe.
Call 684-2713.
William “Cam” Sharp & Daughters Ashleigh Reed, age 4 & Kamryn Skye, age 6, & Wife Danielle Temple
• Son of Bill & Peggy Sharp of East Fork Community • 34-year resident of East Fork Community • Lifelong Member of East Fork Baptist Church • Amite County High School Valedictorian • SMCC Honor Graduate • Associate of Science Degree in Nursing • EMT-Paramedic Class President & Valedictorian • Medical Death Investigation Training • Fire Chief East Central Fire Department Since 1996 • Field Training Officer for AMR Ambulance Service • Licensed Paramedic in Mississippi, Louisiana & Alabama • EMT Instructor Since 2003 • Deputy Medical Death Investigator for Amite County 2004-2009 • Amite County Civil Defense
ENTERPRISE-JOURNAL, McCOMB, MISSISSIPPI
ELECTION GUIDE 2011
THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011
7
www.enterprise-journal.com
SHERIFF n
Mark Shepherd PARTY: Republican OCCUPATION: Pike County Sheriff EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: 1980 McComb High School graduate; 1982 SMCC graduate; 1983 MS Law Enforcement Training Academy graduate; 2,000-plus hours Advanced Law Enforcement Training FAMILY: Wife, Julie; sons, Clay (26), JT (21) and Jacob (15) INCUMBENT: Yes. Have you held a previous office? Current incumbent, serving second term as Pike County Sheriff Why do you want to serve in a public office? To provide professional law enforcement in Pike County. To protect our citizens and make Pike County a safer place to live. What is the biggest challenge to keeping law and order in Pike County, and how do you plan to handle it? Crime rates have increased nationwide due to the economic crisis, unemployment rates and increased drug activity. As your sheriff, I will continue to maintain law and order in Pike County by hiring qualified professional employees. I will provide them every available advanced training opportunity. I will make sure they have the updated equipment needed to perform their jobs. We will work hard
as a team to be vigilant in our continued fight against drugs and protecting our citizens and their property in Shepherd Pike County. Recent census data shows more people moving out of the cities and into the county. What is your plan for the sheriff ’s office to meet the demands of serving that population growth so that crime does not escalate as well? In addition, how do you plan on keeping close ties with the community as the county continues to grow? Pike County is 410 square miles with a population of 40,000-plus. My goal for providing law enforcement for our growing population is to keep a proactive visual patrol presence. Keeping a well-maintained vehicle fleet is important to ensure a prompt call response time. A continued strong law enforcement presence is also a crime deterrent. I have been fortunate as sheriff to have a dedicated staff that shares my goal for providing professional law enforcement for Pike County. We will continue to be fair and honest to all citizens. We will work closely with other state and local agencies to provide our growing community with the services necessary to ensure the safety of our cit-
izens. We will report any important issues effecting our citizens to the media in order to increase community awareness to matters of importance.
Kenny Cotton PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Summit Police Chief EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: SMCC; law enforcement degree and further studies at USM; 31 years military service in active Army and Army Reserves combined; fought two wars, highly decorated in Kuwait and Iraq; currently assigned to 8th/108th Tass Battalion in Jackson as sergeant major; more than 28 years police experience on different levels of law enforcement: McComb Police Department patrolman (three years), Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics agent (25 years, captain for 10 years in Oxford district office), Jackson polygraph division, McComb district office and evidence management. FAMILY: Wife, Dollie; son, Akio; daughter, Akilah Have you held a previous office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? I want to serve the people of Pike County. I love helping people. I feel holding a public office is a wonderful way to serve people. What is the biggest challenge to keeping law and order in Pike
CORONER n
Jane Rushing Jones PARTY: Republican OCCUPATION: Registered Nurse for 27 years. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Graduate of McComb Public School System; Associate Degree in Nursing, Hinds Junior College; Nurse Manager of ER, Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center, 1984-94; Nurse Manager of ER/ICU, King’s Daughters Medical Center, 1994-2008; Southwest Mississippi Community College LPN Instructor, 2008-’10; Mississippi State Board of Nursing Board Member, 2008-’11; employed at Brookhaven Internal Medicine; nationally certified in Basic Life Support, advanced cardiac life support, pediatric advanced life support, Trauma Nursing Core Curriculum and Board Certified Emergency Nurse. FAMILY: Mother to Lynn Whittington McInnis (J.P.) and Rick Whittington (Kathy); grandmother to Claire, Victoria, Jenner and Elisabeth McInnis and Emma Whittington. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office?
No. If elected, what changes or improvements would you try to make? The only elected public official Jones that every family deals with at some point in their lives is the coroner. I would consider it a ministry of service to help provide every family in Pike County compassionate support during the loss of a loved one. I would be honored to serve Pike County and work alongside other elected officials in an effort to improve public relations (or perceptions) in our county as well as improve the timeliness of record management to better serve the needs of families, citizens and other governmental agencies. I have devoted my personal life to my profession. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? My unique background in critical and emergency care, along with managerial experience has prepared me to serve as Pike County coroner.
As a registered nurse for 27 years and a nurse manager for more than 25 years, I have the experience to handle the challenges of the coroner position.
sure that those accused of criminal acts against the peace and dignity of Pike County have been zealously Brewer prosecuted when necessary and exonerated when justice demands it. I have enjoyed being entrusted with the authority to make these decisions on behalf of our citizens. Additionally, it has been a distinct pleasure to work with our local law enforcement officers and court staffs in the administration of justice. It has also been a personal pleasure to work with the Pike County Youth Court, the Department of Human Services and the Pike County Youth Drug Court in efforts to rehabilitate delinquent children and restore peace and tranquility to troubled families. Briefly stated, I enjoy working to protect the interests of our citizenry and hope to continue in this capacity in the coming years.
If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? I will use the experiences of my first term to further streamline the criminal justice system in Pike County. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? Being a Pike County native has been beneficial because I am familiar with the people of Pike County. As a former nuclear missile launch officer in the United States Air Force, I developed the ability to make critical decisions as well as a commitment to excellence in all of my undertakings. As an attorney with more than 2,000 trials during my practice, I am at home in the courtroom. With an educational background in law, psychology, sociology and engineering, I have insight into many technical fields, individual personalities and social dynamics that enables me to make difficult decisions that foster the dispensation of justice.
Carrie Watson Harris PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Retired EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: High school, college and medical field. FAMILY: Married, three children, three grandchildren. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? To improve the position. I know I would be a benefit to the people and my county. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? My intentions are to do the best of my abilities when elected. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? I have a public relations background. I plan to get as much education as I can to do the job correctly if given the chance to serve.
County, and how do you plan to handle it? I want to make Pike County the safest county in Mississippi. I plan to first Cotton build good relationships will all law enforcement, then all emergency personnel and finally build better relationships between everyone in the communities of the county. We are all in this together. If united we can all make a stand to make Pike County the best. I will also maintain professionalism in every area of the departments, no matter the situation. I am firm and consistent in applying the law to all. I will promote safety all over the county by strictly enforcing wearing seatbelts, no driving under the influence and no texting while driving. We will continue to fight the war on dangerous drugs in streets and homes and educate the community in combatting these issues.
Recent census data shows more people moving out of the cities and into the county. What is your plan for the sheriff ’s office to meet the demands of serving that population growth so that crime does not escalate as well? In addition, how do you plan on keeping close ties with the community as the county continues to grow? The people are the customers, and as sheriff, I will provide them with the best
customer service plan available. I will provide extra protection to the elderly and disabled. I plan to hold quarterly meetings in communities across the county to assess needs of the people (customers). The needs will be addressed in a timely manner with a plan of action. Every need will have a reply. My door will always be open to help the people of Pike County.
MURRY
TONEY
Re-Elect Amite County Constable Northern District H Married to Penny Toler for 33 years H 2 sons: Nathan (wife, Tasha & children Alexis & Aaron), and Matthew H Son of Quinn Toney and Linda Albritton H Served over 22 years in the U.S. Army H Amite County Solid Waste Enforcement Officer H Amite County Fire Investigator/Deputy H Assistant Fire Chief - Liberty & Liberty Rural Fire Depts. H Hunter Education & Boater Safety Instructor H Commander District 7 American Legion Department of MS H Graduate of Amite School Center and Vincennes University, IN H Master Mason Liberty Lodge #37 H Liberty Area Chamber of Commerce Board Member
I would like the opportunity to continue serving the citizens of Amitend County. Vote Tuesday, August 2 !
Paid for and approved by Murry Toney.
COUNTY ATTORNEY n
David Lee Brewer PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Pike County Attorney, McComb City Prosecutor, Tylertown City Prosecutor and Sole Partner, Brewer Law Firm, PLLC EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: McComb High School (1989), BS in Human Factors Engineering from the United States Air Force Academy (1993), Juris Doctor from the University of Mississippi (1998), Master’s of Social Science in Psychology and Sociology from University of Mississippi (2000) FAMILY: Son of Ganeath Ritchie Brewer and the late Roy Brewer; wife, Deidre Rutherford Brewer. INCUMBENT: Yes. Have you held a previous public office? Yes, incumbent Pike County Attorney. Why do you want to serve in a public office? It has been a pleasure to serve for the last four years as the prosecuting attorney for our county. While serving in this capacity, I have had the opportunity to en-
Take action against litter andil egal dumps In Pike County, call 249-4694. In Amite County, call 657-8608.
ELECT
NEAL
RANDALL SUPERVISOR PIKE COUNTY DISTRICT 4 VOTE AUGUST 2ND Paid for by Neal Randall
8
ELECTION GUIDE 2011
THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011
ENTERPRISE-JOURNAL, McCOMB, MISSISSIPPI
www.enterprise-journal.com
JUSTICE COURT JUDGE, NORTHERN DISTRICT n
Bryan Harbour DISTRICT: Northern PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Judge, attorney, owner- Harbour Horses. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: B.A., Law degree, University of Mississippi. FAMILY: Wife, Kathleen; Sons: Dave (Tina), Steve (Amy); grandchildren: Raegen, Addison, Gage, Hannah, Adeline. INCUMBENT: Yes. Why do you want to serve in a public office? I want to insure that every person who appears in my court has access to fair and knowledgeable interpretation and application of the law and is treated with dignity and respect.
What are the issues of the campaign for your office? Education, training and experience If elected, Harbour what changes or improvements, if any, would you try to make? I will continue to fairly and accurately interpret the law and to treat all who appear before me with the utmost dignity, fairness and respect. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? I have a law degree from the University of Mississippi and have practiced law in state and federal courts for more than 30 years. Fur-
thermore, I have served as Justice Court Judge for the Northern District for the past five years, receiving hundreds of hours of judicial training. Of the 197 Mississippi Justice Court Judges, I was one of only two judges to receive the 2009 and 2010 award for having 100 percent of DUI/Mississippi Alcohol Safety Education Program Rate. My education, family, training and experience make me uniquely qualified to continue as your judge.
trator, warden. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: High school graduate; Louisiana Correctional Academy (Angola); T.J.A. Training Institute (chemical munition); Department of Justice Administration graduate; 21 years law enforcement. FAMILY: Wife, Debbie Welch; Daughter, Tammy Case; Son, Jimmy Guetto. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? I want to serve the public Charles B. Welch in a professional and courteous manner. This office beDISTRICT: Northern longs to you, and you dePARTY: Republican OCCUPATION: Jail adminis- serve to have a hard-work-
ing judge, representing the interests of the citizens of Pike County in the justice system. What are the issues of the campaign for
your office? With the Lord’s guidance, I will apply the law to each individual case brought before me and remember how lives can be affected one way of the other by the decision made. My decision will not be influenced by anyone. I will be fair and impartial to all. If elected what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make?
I would like to make the justice court system more efficient. I would also like to improve the alcohol and drug rehabilitation of offenders. I will treat you with respect and dignity, yet enforce the law. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? I have 21 years of law enforcement experience and have worked around inmates and the court system all my life. My experience in corrections, court proceedings and administration have provided me with the skills, judgement and maturity to handle the authority and responsibility of being your justice court judge.
tis Brumfield, Richmond and Annie Conerly; wife of Curtis Pickens; son, James Pickens. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? To be a service to the Pike County area. To implement educational seminars on the ramifications of crimes committed and penalties that result. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? Efficiency. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any,would you try to make? Bring efficiency back to the
court. Take a stand on justice and fairness. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? I possess the attitude and temperament to deliver and be accessible, not only to an open office, but am open and fair minded. I have worked with the public for over 30 years. I strongly believe that each individual is accountable for their actions. My background and current experiences involve making conscious decisions but also fair, responsible decisions. I stand by the rule, “Right is right, and wrong is wrong!”
Welch
JUSTICE COURT JUDGE, CENTRAL DISTRICT n
Melvin Hollins DISTRICT: Central PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Justice Court Judge, Central District; retired- USDA Consumer Safety Inspector-Grader EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Prairieville High School; Southern University, (Business Education); Jackson State University (Political Science); SMCC (Real Estate); Food Service Technical School, Fort Lee, Va.; Food Service Sanitation School, Langley Air Force Base, Va., 1969; Poultry Inspection Training, Poultry Grading Training, Jackson, 1986; Gainesville, Fla. 1971; poultry grader; Mississippi Justice Court Judges Conferences. FAMILY: Married to Virginia F. Coleman Hollins; children, Mia H. Martin, Melba H. Harris, Marsha M. Adams, and Shonda Branch; 10 grandchildren. INCUMBENT: Yes Why do you want to serve in a public office? For many years, I have enjoyed volunteering my service to the public in various capacities. Upon my retirement, being available and privileged, I chose to seek a new level of service to the
Pike County community. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? 1. To provide with full energy apHollins propriate information and service to all social groups and creeds. 2. To serve calmly though deliberately, showing love, concern, compassion and care for all of those who this office may serve. 3. To serve boldly and decisively in good faith with dignity, integrity and respect for all. 4. Managing crime with a big heart. The accused are tried fairly and victims get justice. Available for duty any time, justice every time. If re-elected, I will continue to provide a cooperative spirit toward all my co-workers and all the people this office serves and require our staff to do the same. All will continue to experience an atmosphere of assurance. I will continue to carry out with resolve all of the requirements of this office. In doing so, should I see beneficial needs for procedure changes or improvements, recommendations will be
made to the proper officials and/or I’ll do my utmost to see the necessary changes are implemented. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? I have the education, experience and training in a similar work environment. I served four years in the U.S. Air Force, one year in Vietnam. I attended Military Tech School at Fort Lee, Va. I served as storage clerk, where I ordered, received, issued and inventoried food items for Langley Air Force Base dining hall. I was promoted to Staff Sergeant in the space of three years and five months. I worked as consumer safety inspector, inspecting poultry for wholesomeness and graded products that were consumed by people in many countries. I performed preoperational and operational sanitation, monitored processing and graded poultry for 34 years for USDA, where documentation was the key to regulatory functioning of my responsibilities. In each of these positions, decisions on hundreds of thousands of dollars of product were involved. Since 1973, I have served as a volunteer for the NAACP, ascending from
committee member to first vice president of MSC of the NAACP and numerous community organizations. I am a Christian and member of Sweet Home Missionary Baptist Church, where I am on the Deacon Board Ministry and administered the finance committee and usher board. I am a Sunday School assistant superintendent. I love the Lord and constantly seek to do His will.
Sheilar C. Pickens DISTRICT: Central PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Beacham Memorial Hospital; HIPAA Privacy/Security Officer; Collection Manager EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: South Pike High School; Southwest Mississippi Community College, South Suburban College, South Holland, Ill. (business administration and accounting). FAMILY: Daughter of Richmond Pickens and Fannie Brumfield Conerly; granddaughter of Willie and Myr-
Re-Elect
RONNY TAYLOR CHANCERY CLERK AMITE COUNTY
“Dedicated to Service” Copy paid for and approved by Ronny Taylor.
nd
Vote August 2 ! Copy approved and paid for by Eunice Blake.
VOTE • VOTE • VOTE • VOTE •VOTE
The time has come for you the voters of Amite County to decide who the next Tax AssessorCollector will be. It is a position that is held with high self esteem, and will continue to be run with friendly, courteous and honest service. The person elected must continue to obey all rules and regulations that must be handled and dealt with in a timely fashion. That person must also have a love for the county and the people in order to do the job efficiently and professionally. They must also be willing to serve the people at all times. Let my experience and knowledge that I have acquired throughout the years continue to work for and serve you for the next four years. I will make a commitment to continue the quality service you have become accustomed to. I will continue to work for and serve you with the same respect that you have received from me throughout the years. I humbly ask that you vote for experience; vote for Eunice Blake as your next Tax Assessor-Collector of Amite County.
•VOTE • VOTE • VOTE •
THE CANDIDATE WITH A SERVANT’S HEART
VOTE • VOTE •
Vote Aug. 2nd for JAMES A. JONES, SR Supervisor District 2 PIKE COUNTY
Progressive • Trustworthy • Committed • Dedicated • Hardworking A VOTE FOR JONES IS A VOTE FOR EXPERIENCE CITY OF MAGNOLIA OFFICIAL - MAYOR PRO TEMP, ALDERMAN AND STREET COMMISSIONER MISSISSIPPI MUNICIPAL LEAGUE MEMBER CERTIFIED MUNICIPAL OFFICIAL -CMO GRADUATE Pastor - Saint Peter Rescue Mission Church Husband / Father / Grandfather
• OVER 35 YEARS OF MANAGEMENT SKILLS & EXPERIENCE • OVER 25 YEARS MEMBER/UNION OFFICIAL IUE/CWA • CCMA - SERVANT OF THE YEAR (COPIAH COUNTY MINISTERIAL ALLIANCE) • CITY OF MAGNOLIA 2010 FISCAL-YEAR / INCREASED END OF YEAR FUND MORE THAN QUARTER MILLION DOLLARS, NO TAX INCREASE FOR THE CITY • RETIRED DELPHI (GM) EMPLOYEE - 30 YEARS OF SERVICE • REPRESENTED OVER 500 PEOPLE DELPHI SUGGESTION PROGRAM • CREATED OVER 2 MILLION DOLLARS SAVINGS AT DELPHI • OVER 37 YEARS FIGHTING FOR PEOPLE'S RIGHTS (PEOPLE FOCUS) • 38 YEARS MARRIED TO WILLIE JEAN WITHERSPOON JONES
TEAMWORKER-VISIONARY-PROACTIVE-FAIR-LEADER Education • High School- McComb High - 1971 • Attended Mississippi Valley State University • A.P. Clay Bible College - Certificate of Theology - 1998 - 1999 • Bachelor of Theology (A.P. Clay Christian Theological College) 1998 - 2000 • Currently Attending Bethel Christian College - seeking Doctoral Degree in Theology
SERVING YOU Political advertising paid for by candidate.
ENTERPRISE-JOURNAL, McCOMB, MISSISSIPPI
ELECTION GUIDE 2011
THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011
9
www.enterprise-journal.com www.enterprise-journal.com
JUSTICE COURT JUDGE, SOUTHERN DISTRICT n
Larry Goings DISTRICT: Southern PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Self-employed EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Doctoral degree in theology (D.D. Th.D.) FAMILY: Wife, Donna; son, Brian (special “miracle” child). INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office?
No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? I’ve been so blessed in my life to serve in many capacities by service Goings through many organizations, such as Toys for Tots and Coat for a Kid, reaching over 2,500 local children. I’ve served as a
police officer and know I am qualified, both through experience and integrity, to serve you as your Justice Court Judge. I want to give back to the community. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? Equal justice and fairness to all, regardless of who it is; bringing Godly principles, integrity, professionalism and fairness back to the bench and you the people of
Pike County; being firm with the offender and compassionate to the victim; getting church and business leaders more involved, aiming to reduce those returning through the system. If elected what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? Streamline the process, saving the taxpayers money. I will form a committee of business leaders, clergy and
county voters to offer suggestions and concerns. All will be heard fairly in my court. Victims are my major focus. Alternative sentencing for first time non-violent offenses, rehabilitation and church outreaches will be considered. I will work closely with law enforcement agents. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office?
My law enforcement experience has exposed me to all aspects of the justice system, both criminal and civil procedures. God’s wisdom has taught me to be an excellent listener, gathering all the facts. As the father of a disabled child, I have seen unfairness in the legal system and hope to right the wrong for all!
able to stay at home until his day at court. This will also reduce the number of inmates in the county jail and save the taxpayers money for housing inmates until their day in court. I believe all people should be assumed innocent until proven guilty.
public office? As a lifelong resident of Amite County, I enjoy working for the citizens of the county. I believe with ongoing training for 50 employees, we can constantly improve the level of service to the county. What can you do to help prevent burglaries throughout the county? With the help of grants, the sheriff ’s office will have updated equipment and training for personnel. I would have the deputies patrolling different parts of the county for more visibility. I plan to have regular meetings with other law enforcement offices to work together. Recently, allegations of inmate mistreatment at the Amite County jail have been mentioned in criminal and civil cases. What is your plan to improve conditions at the jail? I feel that security cameras throughout the facility will protect both inmates and employees. Activities will be recorded and monitored to meet quality standards.
AMITE COUNTY SHERIFF n
Michael J. Blalock PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Jailer, Amite County Sheriff ’s Office EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Amite School Center graduate; Southwest Mississippi Community College; approximately 15 years law enforcement. FAMILY: Son of James D. Blalock Blalock of Baytown, Texas, and Kay Walters Blalock of Smithdale. Have you held a previous public office? Served 21/2 terms as Amite County constable for the northern district. Why do you want to serve in a public office? Having served in public office in the past, I have found serving the people of Amite County to be a real pleasure. I have found it challenging as well as rewarding. From experience, I would have to say that it takes a special type of person to be a publicly elected official who will acquire many qualities. But simply, an elected official must care about the people he takes the oath to serve. What can you do to help prevent burglaries throughout the county? Burglaries have increased drastically through the years in our county — residential as well as non-residential. They can be committed for several reasons, but a hard fact conspires with many burglary offenses in our county and proof is found in the offenses. That proof is narcotics, the leading element, as well as influencing other crimes. A few things that can be done to deter burglaries include: increasing the presence of law enforcement in our communities, organizing patrol efforts, establishing good relationships with communities to earn public trust, establishing communitybased programs such as Neighborhood Watch, helping people feel involved with their neighborhoods and enforcing the leading element previously mentioned. Recently, allegations of inmate mistreatment at the Amite County jail have been mentioned in criminal and civil cases. What is your plan to improve conditions at the jail? Policy must be instilled to make a facility work. Proper organization and procedure will make policy work.
Ronnie Clark PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Retired law enforcement EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Gloster High School; three years college law enforcement, Northeast Louisiana University; retired police officer after 18 years in Monroe, La. FAMILY: Wife, Judy; five sons. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? I have both experience and education to bring to the sheriff ’s office. As sheriff, when you call, we will come. I was born and raised in Amite County and want this Clark county to have quality law enforcement. What can you do to help pre-
vent burglaries throughout the county? 1) I would have a deputy on duty all night, 24/7. 2) Start a neighborhood watch program with signs. 3) Patrol request for homes where the owner is on vacation or away on business. 4) Check pawn shop lists from local pawn shops for stolen items. 5) Put on talks and programs to help educate the citizens on how not to become a victim. 6) And once again, as sheriff, when you call, we will come. Going after the drug dealers and leaving the working man alone. Recently, allegations of inmate mistreatment at the Amite County jail have been mentioned in criminal and civil cases. What is your plan to improve conditions at the jail? My experience in law enforcement and studies have shown that every jail has complaints from inmates. Some inmates think they are being abused just because they are locked up. Allegations are by no means proof that any mistreatment has occurred. Good documentation and good common sense will head off a lot of problems.
Justin Dawson PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Law Enforcement Officer, Woodville Police Department EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: High school graduate; some college in criminal justice, certified law enforcement academy; special training in supervisor positions and staff development, tactical and combative; communicative skills with public and surrounding agencies; crisis intervention; hostage situations; offender rehabilitation; crowd control; mental and handicapped individuals; criminal investigations; business and budget control; drug identification and intervention; 14 years in corrections and law enforcement FAMILY: Wife, Tammy Carter Dawson; two children, Malarie (15) and Madison (11) INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? With my 14 years of experience and training in law enforcement, I have a lot to offer the citizens of Amite County. The citizens and county would benefit from my experience of handling the budget, crisis intervention, incarcerated people and staff supervision and training. If elected into public office, I would like to improve the county revenue and budget by working with our elected board of supervisors and local businesses. I will provide additional and better training for staff and combined training of local agencies for the safety of local businesses, the elderly and disabled, the youth and all citizens of the county. I will offer rehabilitative programs for offenders and will work with local and state agencies to reduce the growing drug issues and crime that our county faces. I plan on adding education and protection through our school systems for the younger generations by providing awareness of domestic violence, sexual assaults and drug usage by specially trained officers. What can you do to help prevent burglaries throughout the county? By providing additional quality training for staff,
combined training with other local and surrounding agencies, such as better communication skills, working and training together instead of individual officer training. Placing more officers on patrol at no more cost to the county or taxpayers by managing the budget, utilizing grants and free training offered by other agencies. Recently, allegations of inmate mistreatment at the Amite County jail have been mentioned in criminal and civil cases. What is your plan to improve conditions at the jail? With my corrections background, I can offer advanced, up-to-date training for staff that will improve conditions greatly such as how to handle individual and overall needs of incarcerated people. Rehabilitation and work release programs for offenders and also the overall upkeep of the facility will improve conditions at no more cost to the county and taxpayers.
Julius O’Brien PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Retired police officer; currently operate a cattle and timber farm EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: 35 years law enforcement; three years Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, Mississippi certified law enforcement officer, 30 years Baton Rouge City Police Department, retired captain; Federal Court Security; FBI Management School; LSU law enforceO’Brien ment school, three years; Smith & Wesson Composite School; Numerous Law Enforcement Training Seminars; experience in investigating burglaries, homicides, narcotics cases, juvenile procedures, and reporting of burglaries, crimes, theft and property damage. FAMILY: Wife, Canetti Whittington O’Brien; three children; five grandchildren. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? I have worked in public office over 35 years in law enforcement. Why do you want to serve in a public office? I want to continue to serve the public and help keep our county safe. More safety issues are coming to our rural community, and the people deserve a dedicated and qualified sheriff to handle any problem that may arise. Record-keeping and reports are necessary to file for insurance coverage, court cases, criminal and civil investigations. The sheriff is responsible for correct handling of evidence and coordinating with state and local agencies. Amite County taxpayers deserve the best to help in time of need. Too many times the victim is treated worse than the criminal. That will not happen when I am sheriff. What can you do to help prevent burglaries throughout the county? Put more sheriff ’s deputies on the county roads. Be visible in the communities. Have a responsive 911 call center to respond when someone calls in a suspicious activity in a neighborhood. More patrol cars in the county. Work with surrounding counties and other law enforcement agencies to alert each other of criminal activity in the area. Encourage people to be watchful and report suspicious activity immediately through 911. Recently, allegations of inmate
mistreatment at the Amite County jail have been mentioned in criminal and civil cases. What is your plan to improve conditions at the jail? 1) Supervision — the key to improve conditions at the jail. The best solution to prevent allegations of misconduct in the jail is to have supervised personnel. I will have proper training for deputies in charge of the jail. 2) Establish correct procedures for handling inmates and follow these regulations and procedures. Amite County has a history of jail problems. New and legal procedures must be in place to protect the county from lawsuits by inmates and to protect the inmates from abuse from each other. Better monitoring of trustees and other inmates’ activities will be established. Amite County is vulnerable to massive lawsuits if conditions are not improved. Our tax dollars can be spent on other things besides settling lawsuits against the sheriff's office and the county. Elect me and you will have a better, more responsive sheriff in Amite County.
Chad Toney PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Bounty hunter, bail bondsman and real estate agent. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Bounty hunter, licensed with State of Mississippi; bail bondsman with The Hampton Company National Surety; real estate agent with Honea Realty. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? Toney I want to be sheriff to help make Amite County a better place to live, work and play. What can you do to help prevent burglaries throughout the county? Less than 1 percent of Amite County’s population are criminals with criminal intent. Put the criminals behind bars and the good people of Amite County can leave their doors and windows open with no fear of being robbed There are several ways to accomplish this. Being reared in Amite County, I know who the criminals are. Depending on the crime, I know the suspects. Also, each crime scene where a burglary has been committed, I will take fingerprints. Criminals will tell you fingerprints are outdated. I will arrest them using their prints. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Surveillance is good strategy, also. Recently, allegations of inmate mistreatment at the Amite County jail have been mentioned in criminal and civil cases. What is your plan to improve conditions at the jail? I will do whatever it takes to keep the inmates safe. It is the duty of the sheriff ’s department to apprehend those that commit crimes and place in jail. But it is also the responsibility of the sheriff to keep all inmates safe. One major change I’m going to make is to allow people to bond out of jail 24 hours, seven days a week. I don’t have a younger daughter, but if I did and she had a few mixed drinks and got arrested for DUI 1st, I would not want her placed in jail with hardened criminals. By being able to use a reputable bail bonding company, the alleged criminal will be
Tommie Lee PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Gloster Chief of Police EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Gloster High School; Military Police Academy; Mississippi Law Enforcement Academy. FAMILY: Wife, Linda Lee; daughter, Wandaful; son, Tommie Jr.; granddaughter, April. INCUMBENT: Lee No. Have you held a previous public office? Yes, Gloster Chief of Police, 26 years. Why do you want to serve in a public office? I like working in the public and helping people. What can you do to help prevent burglaries throughout the county? Start a countywide neighborhood watch. Recently, allegations of inmate mistreatment at the Amite County jail have been mentioned in criminal and civil cases. What is your plan to improve conditions at the jail? Training for jailer.
Tim Wroten PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Law enforcement, corrections officer, Mississippi Department of Corrections. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Amite School Center graduate; attended Southwest Mississippi Community College, Mississippi Law Enforcement Training Academy graduate, 14 years with Amite County Sheriff ’s Department (three as chief Wroten deputy), 10 with Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, four years Gloster Police Department, four years MDOC, Smithdale volunteer firefighter. FAMILY: Son of Nelson and Jeanette Wroten; wife, Jeanne Wroten; three children: Brittney, Haleigh and Chance. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No, I worked for the Amite County Sheriff ’s Department and Gloster Police Department for 20 years. Why do you want to serve in a
Bill Vallely PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Chief Deputy, Amite County Sheriff ’s Office. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Graduate, Mississippi Law Enforcement Officer Academy; certified firearms instructor; certified arson investigator. FAMILY: Married to June Vallely 47 years; five children. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? To serve the people of Amite County and make it a better place to live. What can you do to help prevent burglaries through the county? Since we live in a rural county with limited deputies, I want to have meetings in the different communities to suggest ways people can make their homes more secure. Also to enlist their aid in watching for suspicious vehicles and people and how they can report this to the sheriff ’s office. Recently, allegations of inmate mistreatment at the Amite county jail have been mentioned in criminal and civil cases. What is your plan to improve conditions at the jail? Obtain more training for jail officers to improve their job performance.
TAKE ACTION. REPORT LITTER AND ILLEGAL DUMPS.
PIKE COUNTY: 249-4694.
10
ELECTION GUIDE 2011
THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011
ENTERPRISE-JOURNAL, McCOMB, MISSISSIPPI
www.enterprise-journal.com
SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION n
Deborah “Debbie” Brown Hopf PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Amite County School District Superintendent of Education. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Master’s in Educational Leadership from Southeastern Louisiana University; Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from University of Southern Mississippi; Bachelor’s in Education, University of Mississippi; post-graduate studies, University of Southern Mississippi and University of Mississippi; teacher, August 1978-July 1999; reading supervisor, August 1999January 2002; District Curriculum and Testing Coordinator, January 2002-November 2007; District Assistant Superintendent, February 2006-December 2007; Amite County Superintendent of Education, January 2008-present FAMILY: Daughter of late Emile and Elsie Brown; siblings, Johnny Brown and Cindy Garret; husband, Eldon; son, Christopher; daughter-in-law, Katie Carriere Hopf; grandchild, Charlotte Hopf; mother-in-law, Wilma Hopf. INCUMBENT: Yes. Have you held a previous public office? I am the incumbent, serving as Amite County Superintendent of Education since January 2008. Why do you want to serve in a public office? I believe that education is the foundation for growth in our community. I’m committed to preparing our children and youth of our county to become productive citizens and future leaders, as well as preparing them for successful career opportunities. As the current superintendent of education for Amite County, I interact with local officials and community groups, as
well as serving on boards, to stay abreast of changes in educational opportunities and the workforce. I want to continue to Hopf implement the necessary changes in our schools to help students become better prepared to contribute to the betterment of Amite County, our state and society as a whole. What plans do you have to raise state test scores within the district schools? Throughout my term as superintendent of education, I have provided guidance to implement our plan for increasing student achievement through a variety of methods. I believe the strength of leadership is essential for achieving academic growth in schools. Therefore, each year, my administrative team and I train together to strengthen our skills in conducting on-going classroom observations and giving constructive feedback to improve instruction. We also continue to provide training for teachers to keep them up to date on the more rigorous components of the curriculum and plan instruction accordingly. We have placed emphasis on positive student behavior and school-wide classroom routines to allow teachers more time to devote to instruction. In the district, we have provided training for teachers, principals and administrators to improve their knowledge of using the available student data to drive instruction. The use of data provides teachers with valuable information to identify which students need to be challenged and which ones need tutorial interventions. The data is also used to
plan professional development for teachers and administrators based on identified strengths and weaknesses of students. Through the use of federal funds, the district contracts with interventionists to provide tutoring services to students who need additional assistance to increase their proficiency in the state tested subject areas. Amite County schools partners with the Save the Children Foundation to provide additional instruction and tutoring in reading for students in our elementary school. We have also placed emphasis on reading across all grades and subject areas. Teachers have access to software and online databases to assess students’ strengths and weaknesses and design individual interventions. The district’s 21st Century grant funds are used to provide after-school programs and a five-week summer program to allow students to receive additional instruction as needed to promote student achievement. What plans do you have to reduce the district’s dropout rate? The district’s dropout rate has decreased 16 percent over the past several years. I monitor our district dropout plan regularly to make adjustments as needed. We have programs in place to be proactive in meeting the needs of students who are identified as potential dropouts. This process begins before students enter school in the Amite County School District. Our Save the Children grant provides funding and training for two Early-Steps interventions to visit homes and work with parents of children from birth to 4 years of age to develop pre-reading and language skills. The district also partners with our local Headstart centers to transition students in-
to kindergarten. The district has identified reading to be a major factor that causes students to struggle academically and fall behind. We are implementing a district-wide reading instruction plan to promote reading across all areas of the curriculum. The Amite County School District partners with Jobs for Mississippi Graduates to implement their programs in grades 7-8 and high school. This program promotes student leadership skills through the program components of character development, study skills, decision-making and team building. The high school program focuses on the exploration of careers and their job requirements. Businesses in our community provide job-shadowing experiences for students participating in the high school Jobs for Mississippi Graduates program. The high school and vo-tech sponsor career and college fairs each year to motivate students and assist them in obtaining the information they need to further their education and career plans. Several years ago, we reinstated our in-school GED program for students who were several grade levels behind to provide a different avenue to exit high school. The district has also added a credit recovery program for students who need to attend the after-school program or extend-year program to regain course credit. Teachers serve as mentors for credit recovery, while instruction is provided through software programs or online courses. These programs also work well to help keep medically homebound students on track in their courses while they are recovering. Last, but definitely not least, parental involvement is
a major factor in the success of our dropout prevention efforts. Our district provides a parent center to address the needs of parents and to help plan programs and meetings to keep parents informed. Parents also have the option to correspond with teachers and monitor their children’s grades through Active Parent, which is a module associated with our student data base.
Scotty A. Whittington PARTY: Independent OCCUPATION: Teacher, Amite County High School. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Associate of Arts, Southwest Mississippi Community College; B.S., University of Southern Mississippi; Master’s in Education, USM; Master’s in Supervision and Administration, Southeastern Louisiana University. FAMILY: Wife, Dorothy C. Whittington. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public
office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? It is my belief that we need to take a different diWhittington rection. I do humbly believe that I have the type of experience that would allow me to make needed changes. What plans do you have to raise state test scores within district schools? I plan to instill discipline in the schools so students and teachers can work together. Teachers will always be valued and problems in the system will be aired before all, and all stakeholders will be asked to help. What plans do you have to reduce the district’s dropout rate? I plan to try to bring the home-schooled back into Amite County schools and make the system safe enough that parents do not have worries about their children.
Subscribe. Call 684-2713. Elect H H H JIM DUCKWORTH Pike County Assessor “Let 22 years in Assessor’s Office Continue to Work For You” PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS: 25 Year Member International Association of Assessing Officers Charter Member — MS International Association of Assessing Officers
PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS: Assessment Evaluator I — 1989 Assessment Evaluator II — 1989 Mississippi Assessment Evaluator —1990 Mississippi Certified General Real Estate Appraiser License 1994
CORONER n
James ‘Jim’ Magee Sr. PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Amite County Coroner and property manager for Newman Riches Inc. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: High school diploma; Vietnam veteran, U.S. Army; 32 years Baton Rouge Fire Department, retired assistant chief; completion of all courses/tests required by Mississippi to Magee be medical examiner. FAMILY: Children, James Carol Magee Jr., Bruce Magee and Bridete Ellis; eight grandchildren, Sophia, Charlee, Mahkayla, Maggie, Megan, Colby, Colten and Caden. Have you held a previous public office? INCUMBENT, Amite County Coroner. Why do you want to serve in a public office? To continue to serve the citizens of Amite County. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? No current issues.
If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? Better communication between all agencies, including Amite County Board of Supervisors to ensure all cases are closed in a timely manner. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? Being in a public office for most of my life, the 16 years of experience in the coroner’s office has given me the knowledge to help better serve the public.
William ‘Cam’ Sharp PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Paramedic, registered nurse, American Medical Response ambulance service. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Amite County Public School graduate; associate of arts and associate of science, Southwest Mississippi Community College, nationally registered paramedic. FAMILY: Son of William Bill and Peggy D. Sharp; wife, Danielle; two daughters, Ashleigh Reed and Skye. Have you held a previous public office? No.
FAMILY:
Why do you county officials already as a Wife: Dorothy Reeves Duckworth want to serve in fire chief and as a member Children: Colette Sanford (Chad), Brooke Beard (Craig), Justin Duckworth (Sandy), Lindsey Huber (Eric) of the Civil Defense Office. a public office? To provide my county and its citizens the most thorough and accurate Sharp investigation of its bereaved and to provide care and compassion to the grieving family. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? • Married 30 years to Linda Hampton Winn of To make the office more Fernwood accountable to the citizens of • Five Girls; Ivy, Patisha, Veronica, Vanessa, Amite County. and Brittany If elected, what changes/im• Six grandchildren and 4 sons-in-law provements, if any, would you try to make? • Graduate of Cohoma Jr. College and Make the office more Jackson State University transparent to the family of • Licensed Designation LUTCF 25 years the bereaved and the citizens • Insurance agent for 28 years who are served by me. • Owner and operator of Winn’s Insurance Agency How does your background and • Past president of Magnolia Chamber of Commerce experience prepare you for this of• Current Member of the Magnolia Chamber of Commerce fice? I have been trained in ad• Worked with MS Scholar in the South Pike Area vanced crime scene death • Worked in the South Pike School District investigation, advanced • Pastor of St. Matthew COGIC (South McComb) SIDS investigation, ad• Reliable, Hardworking, Trustworthy vanced cardiac life support, • I need your vote August 2, 2011 advanced pediatric life support, as well as dealing with the grieving process that goes along with my profession as a paramedic. I also work very closely with the
Re-Elect Bryan Harbour Justice Court Judge Northern District Pike County
Paid for by supporters of “Jim Duckworth for Assessor”
N N N N N N N N N N
Life long resident of Amite County Served 19 years in Amite County Government Served as Justice Court Clerk for 16 years, Solid Waste Clerk 3 years Member of the Justice Court Clerk’s Association for 16 years Served 12 years on the Association’s Board of Directors & 5 years on the Audit Committee Honor Graduate of Pine Hills Academy N Attended SMCC-Majored in Accounting & Business Graduate of University of Mississippi’s Judicial College - Court Clerk Training Member of the Chamber of Commerce Married 23 years to Chuck Netterville, One 14 year old Daughter - Ashley Active Member of Mary Springs Church of God of Prophecy
On August 2nd Vote
MELANIE NETTERVILLE TAX ASSESSOR/COLLECTOR - AMITE COUNTY “Working to bring professional, courteous service to the people of Amite County”
Paid for and approved by Bryan Harbour.
Paid for by Melanie Netterville.
ELECTION GUIDE 2011
ENTERPRISE-JOURNAL, McCOMB, MISSISSIPPI
THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011
11
www.enterprise-journal.com www.enterprise-journal.com
SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 1 n
Aubrey Cain PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Green-end, Georgia-Pacific. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Attended Central High; worked for Georgia-Pacific for 27 years as a supervisor. FAMILY: Wife, Jerry; daughter, Alysan; son, Jeremy. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? To assure the county and district are getting the best benefits. I want to serve and be dedicated to the voters and be committed to listen to all ideas and questions that are asked of me. Also, I would dedicate myself to making Amite County a better place to live and re-
tire. But my main goal is to create more jobs and make education my top priority. County property values are Cain down, the cost of operating government is increasing, and state and federal funding programs have either been decreased or eliminated. Given these factors, do you believe it is now time to increase the general county millage? Why or why not? No, because it’s not the time or place to increase millage. There are no jobs and businesses are closing and moving away. Amite County has several bridges that need to either be repaired or replaced, and a number of
School, Mobile, Ala., 1978; Mississippi College graduate, 1983, B.S. in education; additional courses at USM, LSU and Alcorn State; land surveyor license, 1997; math, science and history teacher, 11 years. FAMILY: Son of the Rev. Maurice and Martha Wicker of Smithdale; two brothers, the Rev. Gerald F. Wicker and Jenny Wicker; two children: Emily and Stephen. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? I have not held any public office, but I believe I can do a competent job due Troy G. Wicker to my past experiences in the areas of education and PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Licensed land land surveying. surveyor Why do you want to serve in a EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: public office? Since there is no Mary G. Montgomery High incumbent, and everyone county roads need repairs. Money is tight, State Aid road funding is reduced, and some projects have been delayed. What are your plans to make the necessary repairs to bridges and roads in the face of less funding and in a timely manner? My plans are to handle the tough tasks first and the small situations last, even though the money might be reduced. Then I would repair the most inferior bridges first and use what money is allocated to replace the worn bridges in a timely manner so people can travel across them safely.
SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 2
SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 4
n
n
SheLia L. Thompson PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Private contractor EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Amite County High School, 1992 graduate INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? I want to serve and move Amite County forward. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? Better roads, walkways and bigger
driveways, better bus routes. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you Thompson try to make? I’ll make my proposals and basically move Amite County forward. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? I have had some experience. I am a people person.
Melvin ‘Butch’ Graves PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Equipment operator; Amite County Board of Supervisors, eight years EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: High school graduate; SMCC FAMILY: Son of Quin and Effie Spillman Graves; wife, Judy M. Graves INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? To serve the people of the 4th district and help the
county continue to grow. County property values are down, the cost of operating government is increasing, and state and federal funding programs have either been decreased or eliminated. Given these factors, do you believe it is now time to increase the general county millage? Why or why not? As most of the citizens of Amite County, I also own property here. Money is tight everywhere, so I would not like to see a tax increase. At the time of this year’s election, the budget will
has the same level of supervisory experience, I decided to enter this race. I enjoy working with the public and believe I can further improve our roads and bridges using the knowledge and contacts I have made over the years. County property values are down, the cost of operating government is increasing, and state and federal funding programs have either been decreased or eliminated. Given these factors, do you believe it is now time to increase the general county millage? Why or why not? It is not time for a general county millage increase because it doesn’t make economic sense. Money is tight during this recession, and everyone is cutting back to make ends meet. County government should use the rev-
enue it now receives in the most efficient manner possible and delay any increases until the economy recovers. Amite County has several bridges that need to either be repaired or replaced, and a number of county roads need repairs. Money is tight, State Aid road funding is reduced, and some projects have been delayed. What are your plans to make the necessary repairs to bridges and roads in the face of less funding and in a timely manner? I will review all available information concerning the needs of road and bridge repairs, prioritize needs, determine what will impact the safety of the citizens most and try to think “outside the box” in coming up with solutions that will meet the needs of the citizens of Amite County while staying under budget.
have already been set when I take office. If elected, I promise I will work hard to find other options to generate needed funds before raising the millage. My main objective is to help keep our county up and running effectively. Amite County has several bridges that need to either be repaired or replaced, and a number of county roads need repairs. Money is tight, State Aid road funding is reduced, and some projects have been delayed. What are your plans
to make the necessary repairs to bridges and roads in the face of less funding and in a timely manner? If I am elected, I will look into what money is currently available in the budget to effectively do the people a good job. As your supervisor, my top priority is the safety of all citizens of Amite County. If a bridge or road is unsafe to travel, I will close it down until the money is available to make the necessary repairs.
CHANCERY CLERK
SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 5
n
n
Ronny Taylor PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Amite County Chancery Clerk, 16 years. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Louisiana Tech University graduate, B.A. in English, minor in business; owner, Taylor Properties; licensed real estate broker and certified general appraiser, 15 years; independent petroleum landman for Mississippi, Louisiana and Alabama. FAMILY: Seventh-generation Amite Countian; son of late Leslie Ruth Roberts TayTaylor lor and late Lee Roy Taylor; wife, Pamela Whittington Taylor; son, Ronald. INCUMBENT: Yes. Have you held a previous public office? I was elected to the office of Chancery Clerk in 1995 and have served in that office for four terms. Why do you want to serve in a public office? First of all, there is no doubt in my mind that God opened this door for me and my family. I enjoy helping people and the daily challenges associated with the office of chancery clerk. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? I am not aware of any particular issues directly related to the duties or operation of the chancery clerk’s office. However, if there are any issues or concerns that anyone would like to discuss, please call me, stop by the Courthouse or e-mail me at rtaylor@amitecountyms.gov. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? If re-elected once again, I pledge to be your public servant, continuing to do my best to carry out the duties of this office in a prompt, courteous, efficient and professional manner. Also, I have tried to keep the chancery clerk’s office in step with technology, making improvements/upgrades to our computer system as my budget would allow. All of our land records and court records are now scanned into our computer system as they are filed, digitizing their image and made available here in the courthouse for inspection on our computers and in our traditional record books. This technology provides a good archived copy of our records for safekeeping, eliminating the need for periodic microfilming. I will continue to search for ways to improve the operations of the chancery clerk’s office and am always open to any
suggestions. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? I believe my upbringing, education, work experience and my experience as chancery clerk for the past 16 years have adequately prepared me for the job. Therefore, I humbly and respectfully ask for your continued support and vote for the public office of chancery clerk of Amite County on Aug. 2.
Lisa Sullivan PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Amite County Solid Waste Clerk, 31 years; Deputy Purchase Clerk, part-time at Amite County Justice Court; Amite County Board of Supervisors EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Amite School Center graduate; completed accounting course at SMCC; full time at Amite County Chancery Clerk’s office upon graduation; worked at Amite County Tax Assessor, Circuit Clerk and Justice Court’s offices and as Deputy Amite County Purchase Clerk FAMILY: Husband, Richard Sullivan; five children: Allen, Christie, Justin, Ryan and Austin; six grandchildren, Cammie, Ethan, Braden, Sawyer, Dylan and Melray. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? I want to serve because I love people of Amite County. It has been an incredibly rewarding experience working in the county offices I’ve worked in. I prayed diligently to know if I should run, and the scripture in Ecclesiastes 3 kept coming to my mind. “To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heavens.” What are the issues of the campaign for your office? To always be available to the people. To always be friendly and courteous and show utmost respect to all citizens of Amite County. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? I would always make sure that the Amite County Chancery Clerk’s office is always a very warm, friendly and helpful professional office as I truly put my heart in everything I do. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? I started working with county government after school every day at the chancery clerk’s office when I was a senior in high school. I went full time when I graduated from high school. The only time I left county govern-
ment was to be a bookkeeper and salesperson at Bargain Furniture, which I enjoyed. But my heart was in county govSullivan ernment. I then went to work at the Amite County tax assessor’s office and Amite County circuit clerk’s office. Then I became Amite County Solid Waste Clerk. I also serve as deputy purchase clerk and work part-time at Amite County Justice Court. I feel I
am prepared for this office as Norman county government and serving people are where my heart is and what I love. I first started county government over 30 years ago. I love people, and I love the people of Amite County. They are truly good, wonderful people. I’ve put my heart into every county office I’ve worked in name and tried to do my very best to benefit the people. That’s why I’ve enjoyed working in county government so much because it’s all about serving people. I’ve learned in my life that with God, nothing is impossible, for He is my rock.
Stevenson
EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: High school; SMCC; heavy PARTY: Inde- equipment operator pendent FAMILY: Wife, Danielle; chilOCCUPATION: dren, Nathaniel (8), Nadellia (5) and Daniel (4 months) Stevenson Ent. INCUMBENT: No.
Subscribe.
Call 684-2713.
12
ELECTION GUIDE 2011
THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011
ENTERPRISE-JOURNAL, McCOMB, MISSISSIPPI
www.enterprise-journal.com
TAX ASSESSOR n
Eunice Blake PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Chief Deputy Tax Assessor-CollectorBookkeeper. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Liberty Attendance Center graduate; Meadows Druaghn Business College in New Orleans FAMILY: Parents, late Schelley and Minnie Lee Blake; brothers: Bennie, Blake Schelley, Jr. and Terry; daughter, Anitra. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? I have been serving the citizens of Amite County for a long time, and I want to continue to do that using the knowledge and experience that I have gained through the years. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? Everything in the office is running smoothly, so I don’t see any reason for any immediate changes. If elected, I will continue to operate this office with friendly and courteous service and keeping up with the ever-changing laws and requirements. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? Having first handknowledge of the daily in and outs of the office, and having worked under three tax assessors/collectors for 30
years, have more than pre- to serve the fine folk of Amite pared me to run the office. County. They are special. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? I don’t Gerald Honea know that there are any issues in this campaign. Here PARTY: Republican OCCUPATION: USPS, retired; is the way I see it: Amite Realtor, Black Hawk Real Es- County has an opening in the tax assessor/collector’s tate. office. Four fine people have EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Liberty Attendance Center applied for the job. It is up to graduate, Associate of Arts the people of the county to degree in Accounting, South- decide who they want to west Mississippi Community serve them. College; U.S. Navy veteran; If elected, what changes/imworked for the U.S. Postal Ser- provements, if any, would you try vice for 26 years (17 as Liber- to make? As I see things, I ty postmaster); and Black would be succeeding a very Hawk Real Es- successful, efficient, competate for four tent person in Jennifer Lindyears. I am a sey. Her staff appears to life-long know their jobs and does member of them very well. My task will Glading Bap- be to see that we continue to tist Church, serve the people of the counwhere I have ty, to the best of our ability. served in variHow does your background and ous positions. experience prepare you for this ofMabry I am presently fice? My experience as postserving as Chairman of the master gave me invaluable Board of Deacons. For the experience in helping people past seven years, I have made as well as managing employmyself available to do pulpit ees and overseeing the critisupply. Much of my time is cal function of gathering the spent in church work and revenue necessary to serve evangelism. the county. As a real estate FAMILY: Son of Ina Mae agent, I have gained experiFreeman Honea and the late ence and knowledge needed Clarence Honea; wife, Billie to face the challenges that we Seale Honea; daughters, Jodi all face in this ever-changing Daniel and Jill Boyd; one economy. grandchild, Cody Daniel. INCUMBENT: No. Melanie Brantley Have you held a previous public Netterville office? No. Why do you want to serve in a PARTY: Democrat public office? OCCUPATION: Amite County I have been in public ser- Justice Court Clerk; Justice vice all my adult life. I like Court Clerk Association people and wish to continue Board of Directors, last 12
years; Justice Court Clerk Association Adult Committee, last five years. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: 1986 honor graduate, Pine Hills Academy; SMCC accounting/business; University of Mississippi Judicial College Court Clerk training. FAMILY: Husband, Chuck; daughter, Ashley (14). INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? I have not held previous public office, but I have worked in the Amite County government for 19 years as a public servant for the taxpayers Netterville with elected officials and other local government staff. Why do you want to serve in a public office? Amite County has been my home all my life, and I care about the people here. I want them to receive the best possible service from their tax assessor/collector, and I will work for them and bring them the professional service they deserve and pay for as taxpayers of Amite County. I have met and married my husband, raised my child, worked, gone to church, supported the school systems, patronized the businesses, paid my taxes and spent my life in Amite County. Now, I want to give back to the people who have given
me so much in my life. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? I am running to give fair representation to the people of Amite County. I want to move the office of tax assessor/collector forward to ensure taxpayers have the resources and technology they need when paying taxes, searching records or having questions answered. I want people to get the highest level of service when they pay taxes on their real property, personal property, manufactured homes, automobiles, motorcycles, motor homes, trailers and airplanes. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? I want to put my know-ledge of county government to work for the people of Amite County. I want to improve our collection processes and make sure accurate records are kept at all times because the office of tax assessor/collector is involved in the collection of taxes that help fund a variety of government services for Amite County. I want to make sure the people of this county have their government funded at the highest level possible. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? I feel the people of Amite County need someone representing “their” best interest. As a lifelong resident and employee of Amite County, I know I am the most qualified candidate to serve as tax assessor/collector for the people.
Jessie Pepper Mabry PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Supervisor, Amite Lumber EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Silliman Institute graduate; Bachelor of Science, Louisiana State University. FAMILY: Son of Virginia D. Mabry and the late William H. Mabry Sr.; wife, Barbara W. Mabry. INCUMBENT: No. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? If elected, I promise to work closely with other elected officials in Amite County in order to entice industries and businesses to locate here. New industry would Mabry serve two vital functions — to help maintain Amite County’s low tax rate and to provide more employment opportunities for our citizens. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? I believe my educational background and my business experience as a coowner of a business for 25 years that employed more than 75 employees has well prepared me for this opportunity to serve the citizens of Amite County as their tax assessor/collector.
CIRCUIT CLERK
JUSTICE COURT JUDGE, NORTHERN DISTRICT
n
n
Debbie Reid Kirkland PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Amite County Deputy Circuit Clerk. Education/Background: High school graduate; SMCC graduate; 16 years experience as Deputy Circuit Clerk. FAMILY: Daughter of Doris Reid and the late Charles Reid; husband, Sammy Kirkland; two daughters: Jenna Baker Wilbert and Kayla Baker Poole (husband, Micah); four granddaughters: Aubrey Yelverton, Addison Wilbert, Anna Poole and Sydney Poole. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? It is important to me to help the people of Amite County on a daily basis. I am always ready and willing to assist you with your needs and to serve you in a courteous and efficient manner. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? I am qualified to fulfill the duties of the circuit clerk, which include voter registration, elections, circuit court, filing civil and criminal suits and issuing marriage licenses and passports.
Kirkland
I believe the experience and training I have gained as deputy circuit clerk has prepared me to serve the public to the best of my
ability. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? I have worked side by side with Sharon Walsh (current Circuit Clerk), and I would not make any changes to the way we serve the people of Amite County. I will continue to make sure everyone is treated fairly and in a Christian manner you have been accustomed to. It is important for me to deal with new technology and to receive the training offered on the laws and procedures of this office. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? I have served as deputy circuit clerk for 16 years. I have the experience and training, and I’m fully qualified to perform these duties. I am a lifelong resident of Amite County, and it is a privilege to work in the public for the public.
Jerry White PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Entrepreneur in Amite County area EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Educated in Amite County Public School system; 1964 graduate of former Central High School in Liberty. FAMILY: Wife, Jacquelyn D. White; children: John White, Montel J. White, Jerralyn White and Monica E. White; one grandson, Jaiden. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? Served as the president of the Amite County NAACP for eight years and the vice-president of the Amite County NAACP for 18 years. Also served as a representative for the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition of Amite County; served on the board of directors of Southwest Mississippi Legal Services for 18 years. Served the State Redress Committee for the Mississippi NAACP for four years; minister in the Christian faith for 20 years. Why do you want to serve in a public office? With my experience, I believe I can make changes in Amite County and its encompassing community. What are the issues of the cam-
paign for your office? I would make education and jobs, as well as the youth and senior citizens of Amite White County a priority. I would like to see elections conducted in such a way that it would be fair and representative of the citizens of this county. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? I would like to improve race relations in Amite County in terms of education, jobs and the general conditions of the community. I will strive to better our community by promoting our county as one, attempting to eliminate racial and economical barriers. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? As a member of the Amite County NAACP for 31 years, working in Amite County for over 30 years and serving the community, I feel prepared for this office. Having been born in Amite County, I will proudly serve the citizens of this great county and fully dedicate myself to the office of Amite County Circuit Clerk.
WALTHALL COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION n
Danny McCallum PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Incumbent, Superintendent of Education. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: B.S. degree (USM); Master of Education (William Carey College). FAMILY: Wife, Karen; three sons: Chris, Josh and Colt. INCUMBENT: Yes.
Have you held a previous public office? Incumbent superintendent. Why do you want to serve in a public office? Being a lifetime resident of Walthall County, I feel like it is my duty to give back to my school district. I have teaching and administrative experience to provide. What are the issues of the campaign for your office?
To provide a safe and orderly climate in which all students may learn and teachers may teach. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? To improve on the RTI (Response to Intervention) process so that we can keep students in the regular classroom as opposed to alternative school and special education.
How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? 36 years in education; 14 years, Tylertown Elementary principal; four years, Walthall County Schools Superintendent of Education. Under my leadership, Walthall County Schools’ 2010 graduation rate was 9.8 percent higher than the state average.
five grandchildren. INCUMBENT: Yes. I was elected last year in a special election where I defeated 23 othAlford er candidates. Why do you want to serve in a public office? It gives me the opportunity to serve, meet and assist the general public and make a difference in the community and county. What are the issues of the campaign for your office?
Experience and qualifications of the candidates who can best serve in this official capacity, who is best trained and most experienced. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? I will continue to run and manage the office in the most efficient manner possible. Save taxpayer dollars and continue to help and assist the public. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? I am the only candidate
with experience in this important office. I have already had on-the-job training and experience in this office. My previous experience includes a 17-year banking career that affords me invaluable office management experience and excellent people skills.
CIRCUIT CLERK n
Vernon E. Alford PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Walthall County Circuit Clerk EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Salem High School honors graduate; Associate of Arts, Southwest Mississippi Community College (with honors); B.S. University of Southern Mississippi (with honors); University of Mississippi School of Banking graduate; completed Mississippi Judicial College. FAMILY: Wife, Breeze Alford; three children: Lou Ellen, Jennifer and Samuel;
Roger D. Arnold PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Incumbent Justice Court Judge EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Completed Mississippi Judicial College and National Judicial College. FAMILY: Wife, Sarah Sullivan Arnold; two daughters: Sandy (Ty) Shell and Missy (Shane) Clanton; five grandchildren. Have you held a previous public office? Currently serving as Justice Court Judge and have been municipal court judge for the towns of Liberty and Gloster for 111/2 years. Why do you want to serve in a public office? To continue to serve and help people in all areas, such as alcohol and drugs to help them lead productive lives. Serving in this capacity offers me the opportunity to do this.
Arnold
What are the issues of the campaign for your office? To continue to be fair and impartial and rule each case fairly based on the
evidence. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? To continue to work with and for the citizens of Amite County because together we can continue to make a difference. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? Because of the extensive training that I have received over the 111/2 years I have held this office, which is offered by the Judicial College that keeps us up to date on changes of the laws.
JUSTICE COURT JUDGE, NORTHERN DISTRICT n
Murry Toney PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Constable; Solid Waste Enforcement Officer. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Amite School Center graduate; Vincennes University graduate. FAMILY: Wife, Penny Toler Toney; two sons and one daughter-in-law: Matthew and Nathan Toney and wife Tasha; two grandchildren: Alexis and Aaron Toney. INCUMBENT: Yes. Have you held a previous public office? Yes, I am the incumbent constable for the Northern District of Amite County. Why do you want to serve in a public office? I served our country over 22 years and would like to continue to work with and serve the citizens of Amite County. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? To ensure that the citizens of this county being served
are done so with respect and dignity, whether civil or criminal process. Also to maintain order and respect in our Toney Justice Court system at all times. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? I would like to have a closer working relationship with all levels of our court system and the sheriff ’s office to help protect and serve all citizens of Amite County. Also to be impartial, fair and to treat everyone equally. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? During my civilian and military careers for the past 25 years, I have dealt with the public in sales and other public relations issues. I have served as constable since 2008. Please vote to re-elect Murry Toney on Aug. 2.
TAKE ACTION.
REPORT LITTER AND ILLEGAL DUMPS. PIKE COUNTY: 249-4694. AMITE COUNTY: 657-8608
DON’T MISS A DAY. Subscribe to the Enterprise-Journal. Call 684-2713.
ENTERPRISE-JOURNAL, McCOMB, MISSISSIPPI
ELECTION GUIDE 2011
THURSDAY, JULY 28, 2011
13
www.enterprise-journal.com
SHERIFF n
Glen Hartzog PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Constable EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: High school, U.S. Marines. FAMILY: Wife, Kathy; three children; five grandchildren. INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office? Yes, I am the current constable. Why do you want to serve in a public office?
I believe that I have a responsibility to offer everything that I can for the people of Walthall County. What are the issues of the campaign for your office? By the people, for the people. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? To acquire a new jail facility, become more visible in the county. How does your background and
experience prepare you for this of- public office? fice? To bring pride and effecIn every respect and tive law enforcement to the office and to treat all citizens area. with dignity and respect. If elected, what changes/imRonald C. Harris provements, if any, would you try PARTY: Democrat to make? OCCUPATION: Retired law I will hire qualified, pubenforcement officer. lic service-minded deputies EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Ex- and implement proven perienced law enforcement crime-lowering tactics. I will access grants to imofficer and background. prover overall effectiveness INCUMBENT: No. Why do you want to serve in a of office and bring current-
JUSTICE COURT JUDGE, DISTRICT 1 n
Douglas E. Coon PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Assistant director of maintenance, Liberty Community Living Center. EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Moss Point High School, firefighter, law enforcement, bail enforcement. FAMILY: Wife, Rita; two
children: Douglas J. Coon and Kristina Scherer; one grandson, Justin Scherer. Coon INCUMBENT: No. Have you held a previous public office?
No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? To make a difference in our county. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? To put back the trust in our judicial system. How does your background and experience prepare you for this of-
fice? I have been involved and around the judicial system since 1986. I want to be the judge that will help and listen to the community. I would like to make a difference. I have also been a supervisor of more than 10 people.
ly condemned jail into state guidelines. I will implement an open-door policy at the sheriff ’s office. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? I am an experienced law enforcement officer. I promise each citizen of Walthall Couty that I will make you proud of the
public servants of the sheriff ’s office. We will modernize technology and run an efficient and well-organized office. We exist to serve the public and will adhere to the highest standards of professional conduct an courtesy to the public. I earnestly solicit your vote and prayers.
VOTE
HOLLIS MAGEE Pike County Supervisor District 2 “Old Enough to Know and Young Enough to Go” Paid for by Hollis Magee.
JUSTICE COURT JUDGE, DISTRICT 2 n
Marion McKenzie PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Justice Court Judge EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: High school graduate. FAMILY: Wife, Frances Beard McKenzie; four children; 13 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren INCUMBENT: Yes. Have you held a previous public
office? Have served as District 2 Justice Court Judge for the past 16 years. Why do you want to serve in a public office? To serve the people of Walthall County with my experience and make a difference where people will be proud to live in Walthall County. What are the issues of the campaign for your office?
To continue serving fice? Walthall County as my job as By being judge for the past judge. 16 years and attending all If elected, what changes/im- the required judicial schools. provements, if any, would you try to make? I pledge to continue my record of honest, impartial and fair service to all the residents of District 2 and Walthall County. How does your background and experience prepare you for this of-
Kody and Kasy. Have you held a previous public office? No. Why do you want to serve in a public office? The opportunity to help my community. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? My hope is to work with
my fellow supervisors for the betterment of Walthall County. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? 28 years of experience with my father, the late Charles Ray Stinson, in the family business serving the people of Walthall County.
INCUMBENT: Yes Have you held a previous public office? Yes, incumbent. Why do you Bracey want to serve in a public office? To continue to serve the good folks of Walthall County. What are the issues of the cam-
paign for your office? Experience. If elected, what changes/improvements, if any, would you try to make? Continued service. How does your background and experience prepare you for this office? 12 years as Chancery Clerk; 12 judicial college seminars and numerous classes
SUPERVISOR, DISTRICT 4 n
Jimmy ‘Neil’ Stinson PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: 28 years, Stinson Service Center; seven years, Delta Industrial (ready-mix). EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Tylertown High School graduate FAMILY: Wife, Tammy G. Stinson; three sons: Kirk,
CHANCERY CLERK n
Bob A. Bracey PARTY: Democrat OCCUPATION: Walthall County Chancery Clerk EDUCATION/BACKGROUND: Pearl River Junior College; University of Southern Mississippi; business; real estate and finance FAMILY: Wife, Susan; two sons, Allen and Christopher; daughter-in-law, Kaylan; grandson, Cooper.
LUKE
BREWER • Wife: Peggy Dickerson Brewer. Three children: Fulton Brewer & wife Courtney, Missy Carruth & husband Jeff, Kristen Hemphill & husband Carey. Five grandchildren: Hastings, Brewer & Carlyle Carruth, Sydney Brewer and Anna Bryan Hemphill. • Parents are Mary Katherine Brewer and the late Buddy Brewer. • Graduate of North Pike High School, SMCC and USM. • Member of First Baptist Church - Summit, serving as Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, and Choir Member. • Retired from ICRR as engineer (25 years) • Owner of Statewide Pools, Inc.
Bryant, Reeves top spenders in Mississippi campaigns JACKSON (AP) — New campaign finance reports show Republican Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant of Brandon is still spending the most money in the Mississippi governor’s contest. Documents filed Tuesday show Bryant has spent more than $3.1 million in the race to succeed Republican Gov. Haley Barbour, who is limited to two terms and couldn't run this year. One of Bryant's rivals in the Republican primary, coast contractor Dave Dennis, has spent more than $1.1 million. In the Democratic primary for governor, Clarksdale businessman and attorney Bill Luckett has spent $843,000 so far this year, and Hattiesburg Mayor Johnny DuPree has spent $430,180. In the lieutenant governor’s race, Republican state Treasurer Tate Reeves of Flowood has spent $2.3 million, and state Sen. Billy Hewes of Gulfport has spent just over $2 million. No Democrat is running for lieutenant governor. Primaries for the two major parties are Aug. 2 and runoffs, if needed, will be Aug. 23. The general election is Nov. 8. The new campaign finance reports were released just ahead of one of the biggest — and sweatiest — events of the Mississippi campaign season. Thousands of people will trek to the red clay hills of east central Mississip-
pi today to hear candidates speak at the Neshoba County Fair. The new campaign finance reports also show: • In the governor’s race, Republican Hudson Holliday of Poplarville, a Pearl River County supervisor, has spent $133,748; Republican James Broadwater of Byram, an ordained Baptist minister and former state employee, has spent $1,644; and Democrat Guy Dale Shaw of Coffeeville, a retired Yalobusha County tax assessor, has spent $9,380. Reports were not immediately available for Republican Ron Williams, a Moss Point businessman, or Democrat William Bond Compton Jr., a Meridian High School history teacher. • In the Republican primary for treasurer, state Personnel Board director Lynn Fitch of Madison has spent $347,092, former Barbour budget adviser Lucien Smith of Jackson has spent $344,256 and state Sen. Lee Yancey of Brandon has spent $261,918. The only Democratic candidate for treasurer, Ocean Springs Mayor Connie Moran, has spent $47,948. Reeves has been treasurer two terms. • In the Republican primary for agriculture commissioner, retired vocational agriculture teacher Max Phillips of Taylorsville has spent $218,828, state Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith of Brookhaven has spent
$178,707 and state Rep. Dannie Reed of Ackerman has spent $7,167. The only Democrat running for agriculture commissioner, cattleman Joel Gill of Pickens has spent $4,513. The current commissioner, Lester Spell, chose not to seek a fifth term this year.
Vote Tuesday, August 2nd
PIKE COUNTY DISTRICT 4 SUPERVISOR REPUBLICAN Paid for by Luke Brewer.
RE-ELECT
To The Voters of Amite County:
I would like to take this opportunity to once again ask you for your vote and support for me in my campaign for re-election to the office of Superintendent of Education for Amite County. It has been an honor to serve you as Superintendent of Superintendent of Education Education in addition to my service as assistant superintendent, district administrator, school supervisor, and teacher. I remain committed to continuing to Amite County provide a strong educational foundation for the students in Amite County to prepare Qualifications: (Totaling 33 Years in Education) them for their futures in a continuously competitive society, while maintaining accountability in all aspects of the operations of the district. I humbly ask for your • Current Superintendent of Education, Amite County School District vote and support on August 2nd in my endeavors to seek a second term as Amite (Serving Amite County since January 2008) County Superintendent of Education. • Previous Assistant Superintendent (Amite County School District) Sincerely; • District Administrator in Amite County Schools since 2002-Responsible for Curriculum, State Testing, Accreditation, Grant Writing and Oversight of Grant Debbie Brown Hopf Programs/Budgets, and Professional Development Planning Platform: • School Supervisory Experience Directing Reading Programs, School Testing, • Provide Leadership toward District Vision “To become a STAR District” and Federal Programs • Dedication to the District Mission “To Educate ALL Students” • Continuous Improvement toward District Goals: (1) Increase Student • Classroom Teacher for 21 Years Achievement, (2) Increase Graduation Rate, and (3) Increase Parental and Community Support SERVING AMITE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT SINCE 1987 • Accountability for all Employees and Students VOTE AUGUST 2ND • Accountability for Financial Management and 16th Section Lands • Safe and Positive Learning Environment in Schools Lifetime Resident of Amite County • Preparing Students to Become Productive Citizens and Leaders Committed to Providing Quality Education in Amite County Schools
Debbie Brown Hopf
RE-ELECT DEBBIE BROWN HOPF • AMITE COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION Paid for by Debbie Brown Hopf
14
ELECTION GUIDE 2011
THURSAY, JULY 28, 2011
www.enterprise-journal.com
STATE CANDIDATES n
Democratic primary GOVERNOR William Bond Compton Johnny L. Dupree Bill Luckett Guy Dale Shaw ATTORNEY GENERAL Jim Hood STATE TREASURER Connie Moran COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE AND COMMERCE Joel Gill COMMISSIONER OF INSURANCE Louis Fondren PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSIONER, SOUTHERN DISTRICT Thomas “Tom” Blanton James M. Buckhaults Mike Collier TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONER, SOUTHERN DISTRICT Larry Albritton
Republican primary GOVERNOR
James Broadwater Phil Bryant Dave Dennis Hudson Holliday Ron Williams LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR Billy Hewes Tate Reeves SECRETARY OF STATE Ricky Dombrowski Delbert Hosemann ATTORNEY GENERAL Steve Simpson STATE AUDITOR Stacey E. Pickering STATE TREASURER Lynn Fitch Lucien Smith Lee Yancey COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE AND COMMERCE Max Phillips Dannie Reed Cindy Hyde-Smith COMMISSIONER OF INSURANCE Mike Chaney
School events • Weddings • Sports Church News • Business News Letters to the Editor • Hunting & Outdoors Photos Club News • Births • College News • Military News Anniversaries • Birthday Parties • and more The Enterprise-Journal is a community newspaper and we want to serve you better so we’re asking you to share your news and photos with us. It’s easy: drop it by our office at 112 Oliver Emmerich Dr., e-mail us at news@enterprise-journal.com or mail it to us at P.O. Box 2009, McComb, MS 39649.
ENTERPRISE-JOURNAL, McCOMB, MISSISSIPPI