2014 04 13 primary elections

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2014 C O U N T Y P R I M A R I E S

Election

A comprehensive look at all of the candidates for local office in the May 6 Putnam County Democrat and Republican primary elelctions. Brought to you as a public service by the

Herald-Citizen

Special Supplement, Sunday, April 13, 2014

A-2 — HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 13, 2014

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Election

2014

Herald-Citizen staff committed to election coverage This is a big year in politics in Putnam County. With almost every office on the ballot, 2014 could change the face of government in this community. Knowing how important every vote is, the Herald-Citizen has put together the first of two special election sections designed to help readers keep track of the candidates and the races.

This first special section includes the candidates who have qualified for the county primary elections on May 6.

The Democrats and Republicans listed on these pages will appear on the primary ballot. We also included the Independents in some of the races to give voters a complete listing of candidates.

The Independents will not appear on the ballot in May but will be on the ballot in August.

We did not solicit advertising in this section. Instead, we chose to make it more of a guide for voters to use be-

fore going to the polls. We appreciate the candidates who completed our questionnaire. We hope the candidates who will be included in the state primary and county general elections, such as those running for offices in Baxter, Monterey, Algood, Cookeville city council, property assessor school board, committeeman, committeewoman, state representative, state senate, governor, United States Senate and United States House of Representatives will also provide us with necessary information in order to complete our second special section, which will be published before the Aug. 7 election.

The Herald-Citizen is providing these special sections as a service to our community. We want our readers to be informed when it comes time for elections. We hope you will use our special sections. But, most of all, we hope you get out and vote!

COUNT Y PRIMARIES

Road Supervisor NAME: Larry “Buck” Huddleston POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: 931-265-4726 ADDRESS: 4706 Front Street, Cookeville.

FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife of 38 years Patricia, son Jason and Tyler Huddleston, daughter-in-law Christie Huddleston, grandchildren Riley and Brayden HuddleHuddleston ston, parents the late Max and Mollie Huddleston, mother-in-law Melba Bennett and father-in-law the late Otis Bennett.

EDUCATION: Graduate of Upperman High School (1972).

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Boma First Church of God and involved with church activities.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Family and grandchildren, hunting, fishing and outdoor sports, anything that involves the family.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Road supervisor CURRENT OCCUPATION: Owner of Bennett Paving LLC. WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: Larry “Buck” Huddleston has owned and operated a successful asphalt paving company in Putnam County for the last 31 years. The hard work and management “Buck” has attained by his hard-work ethics from his business will benefit the taxpayers of Putnam County. Having this experience, “Buck” pledges to work within the budget passed by the county commission and to spend your tax dollars wisely which will benefit both city and rural Putnam County taxpayers with lower property taxes.

When elected, “Buck” will use his many miles of paving experiences to ensure you, the taxpayers, have the best possible roads to drive on in Putnam County.

“Buck” is looking forward to receiving more input from the taxpayers on the needs for your roads to give you what you deserve from your tax dollars. The office of road supervisor will always have an open-door policy for the citizens of Putnam County.

“Buck” is an honest, hardworking, trustworthy and dependable person.

He will apply those same traits to the road supervisor of Putnam County.

He is a family man with a common sense approach to decision making that will benefit the taxpayers of Putnam County. When elected, “Buck” pledges to be a full-time road supervisor.

Larry “Buck” Huddleston humbly asks for your vote and support in the Aug. 7 county general election.

Explanation of Offices The County Trustee is the county’s treasurer. The office collects county property taxes and other fees and revenue and is responsible for disbursing funds and investing idle county funds.

The Circuit Court Clerk runs the clerical system for General Sessions, Criminal Court and Juvenile Court, issuing warrants, summonses, citations and keeping records of the courts.

The County Clerk heads the office which handles motor vehicle titling, registration, noting of liens, issuing of marriage licenses and county business licenses, collection of business taxes and the keeping of the records and minutes of the County Commission and of the County Beer Board.

The District Attorney is the chief criminal prosecutor in Putnam and six other area counties in the 13th Judicial District, including Overton, White, DeKalb, Cumberland, Clay and Pickett. The DA investigates crimes, presents evidence to the grand jury and prosecutes persons accused of crimes.

A Circuit Court judge presides over courts of general jurisdiction, hearing civil and criminal cases and appeals of decisions from City, Juvenile, Municipal and General Sessions courts. The judge serves Putnam, Overton, White, DeKalb, Cumberland, Clay and Pickett counties, which make up the 13th Judicial District.

The Road Supervisor runs the county’s Highway Department, which is in charge of road and bridge construction and maintenance.

The Register of Deeds heads the county office which handles the recording of property deeds and other legal documents.

The County Sheriff heads the countywide law enforcement agency, which investigates crimes and accidents, patrols roads, provides security at the Justice Center and at various public events, provides school resource officers in public schools and runs the county jail.

The County Executive is the chief financial and administrative officer for the county and is responsible for helping develop the budget and for oversight of the budget.

The County Commission, made up of 24 members representing various specific districts of the county, is the county legislative body. Among the duties are setting the property tax rate, development and approval of the county budget and generally determining how county funds are spent. Commission district voting precincts are as follows: District 1 - Capshaw District 2 - Northeast District 3 - University (votes at Collegeside Church of Christ) District 4 - Burks Middle, Monterey City Hall, Poplar Grove District 5 - Prescott South, Dry Valley, Cookeville Community Center District 6 - Cane Creek District 7 - Burgess Falls, Twin Oak District 8 - Cornerstone, Upperman, Buffalo Valley, Boma District 9 - Double Springs North, Double Springs South District 10 - Pavilion, Sycamore District 11 - Bangham, Cookeville High School District 12 - Algood School, Algood Community Center, Brotherton

Peyton Jones.

EDUCATION: Graduate of Putnam County Senior High School.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Hunting, fishing and playing with my grandsons.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: County road supervisor.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County road supervisor.

CURRENT OCCUPATION: County road supervisor.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: Immediately after I took office in May 2010, we were hit with a major flood in the western part of the county and in the fall of 2010, the northern part of the county was hit with another flood. Both events took out major roads, such as Pippin Road, Dyer Long Road, Cumby Road, Knight’s Chapel Road, and several others. It was my responsibility to have these roads passable and back up to standards as quickly as possible. Not only did my department have these roads repaired and open quickly, I was able to work with FEMA to obtain partial funding for these repairs which greatly reduced the cost to Putnam County taxpayers.

In the past four years, we have accomplished several paving projects throughout Putnam County and have more planned in 2014. I am also coordinating a state-aid bridge project in Poplar Grove that started in 2013 and is projected to be complete in late fall of 2014.

I have worked hard and will continue to work hard for the people of Putnam County. I will continue to work with FEMA and Tennessee state agencies to obtain project funding. I take this job seriously and would like to continue the progress the Highway Department has made since I’ve been in office. I would greatly appreciate your vote.

Register of Deeds

Index of Candidates Chancellor...............................................5 Circuit Court Clerk..................................3 Circuit Judge Part I ..................................5 Circuit Judge Part II .................................5 County Clerk ...........................................7 County Commission ...........................8-13 County Executive.....................................3 Criminal Court Judge Part I .....................6 Criminal Court Judge Part II ....................5 District Attorney General ........................4 District Public Defender..........................4 General Sessions Judge Part I...................6 General Sessions Judge Part II .................6 Register of Deeds ....................................2 Road Supervisor ......................................2 Sheriff......................................................2 Trustee.....................................................3

Jones

NAME: Randy Jones POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: 931-261-3450 ADDRESS: 4300 Verble Sherrell Rd., Cookeville.

FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife Jan, sons David Bowling and wife Katie, the late Stephen Jones and his widow Holly, grandsons Landon Bowling and

NAME: Harold Burris POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: 931-526-7101 ADDRESS: 9352 Lynn Chapel Rd., Cookeville.

FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife Deloris Burris.

EDUCATION: High school and one year at Burris Tennessee Tech University.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Whitson Chapel Church of Christ.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Upper Cumberland Horseback Riders Club board member, Smith Chapel Cemetery board, past board member of the Clean Commission and Cookeville Senior Center, member of the county pay scale committee, ethics committee, public records committee.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Fishing and hunting.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Register of Deeds OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Register of Deeds CURRENT OCCUPATION: Register of Deeds WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I want to continue to serve the community with vision, reliability, leadership and experience. We are adding the older records to the computer system daily, which will make for better, easier service to our community. I will continue to update our system as updates are needed to better serve the public. The Register’s Office provides a service to the citizens of Putnam County and I have the experience to continue that service to our community.

Sheriff NAME: Eddie Farris POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: 261-4144 ADDRESS: 1524 Turnberry Place, Cookeville.

FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife Jill, two daughters, Morgan, a TTU freshman and Brooke, an Upperman High School sophomore.

Farris EDUCATION: BS degree in criminal justice from East Tennessee State University.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Member at Cumberland First Presbyterian Church.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Member of the National Rifle Association, Fraternal Order of Police, Harley Owners Group, TN Narcotics Association, American Motorcycle Association, International Association of Law Enforcement Firearms Instruction, Defenders, International Association of Undercover Officers, FBI National Academy, and the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Weightlifting, motorcycling and golfing.

HONORS/AWARDS: Captain and recipient of baseball scholarship to ETSU, Putnam County’s first jail administrator, graduate of the Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy, recipient of Outstanding Achievement award from the TN Highway Patrol, Criminal Investigation Division in 2000, assigned to FBI “Safe Streets” Violent Crimes task force, promoted to assistant special agent in charge with the Tennessee Highway Patrol Criminal Investigation Division.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: None OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Sheriff CURRENT OCCUPATION: Special Agent with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: My purpose for running for sheriff is simple — I will do my best to serve and protect. I will also do my best to help make Putnam County a better and safer place for all of us to live, worship, work, play and raise our families. By using all of my training, experience and skills, I will organize the sheriff’s department in such a way that all employees are inspired and motivated to serve the community in a professional, competent and caring manner. Because I was born and raised here and because my family, parents, relatives, friends and church are here, there is no place else that I would rather use my law enforcement training and experience to serve others and make a positive difference.

I am not campaigning to be sheriff because I seek the title or because I want to become even better known. It probably is quite apparent to you that I am not a politician, but simply a hardworking person with a successful and extensive law enforcement background. I am campaigning to be your next sheriff because I know that I will make a positive difference. I will work tirelessly to organize, inspire and motivate the employees of the sheriff’s department to perform their duties professionally and competently while treating all citizens with respect and dignity.

NAME: Lewis Tommaso POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: 931-529-0212 ADDRESS: 2675 Cloverdale Dr., Cookeville.

FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife Betty, two children, five grandchildren.

EDUCATION: State University of New York at OsTommaso wego, BA and Dowling University of New York, education.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Cookeville.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: American Cancer Society, Relay for Life, Make a Wish Foundation, CCWA. HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Photography, writer (published poetry and songs in numerous books), articles written in numerous magazines, classic and muscle cars, autocross, rallies, motorcycling, Trail of Tears.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Register of Deeds.

CURRENT OCCUPATION: Realtor/Real Estate affiliate broker.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I’d like to ask for your vote for Register of Deeds, the public officer who records documents that establish ownership of real property, such as mortgages and other instruments. I am well-qualified for these duties, having more than 35 years in the building industry, real estate and banking. I have maintained my real estate license and also in the past, my general contractor license. As a contractor and property owner, I have worked with local banks, attorneys and the Register of Deeds office in Putnam and other counties since 1986. I have knowledge of all facets of the office of Register of Deeds.

I’ve been proud to live in Cookeville since 1986. I was born in Manhattan, N.Y., and attended Oswego State University, graduating with a BA in 1975. After graduation, I furthered my career by attending Dowling University in New York while teaching trades to support myself. In 1976, I met my wife, Betty Davis, of Cookeville. We married in 1979, started a construction company and eventually moved home to Cookeville in 1986 to raise our family in a community of growth, prosperity and solid values.

My career here has included building homes, planning subdivisions and working closely with the private and public sector. My involvement with federal, state and local officials, as well as my knowledge of banking procedures, has given me important skills that I will apply to serving the people of Putnam County.

Preventing mortgage fraud and identity theft will be a top priority for me.

Unfortunately, it’s all too easy for a criminal to record a fraudulent deed, making it appear as if they own your home. Once this is done, they can use your name as collateral on a mortgage or even attempt to sell your home to an unsuspecting buyer. I will implement a program that will notify you if a document is recorded with your name and you will be given the option to be notified by email or phone. In this age of identity theft, this is a protection the people of our county need.

I am a staunch Republican, never wavering from the Republican Party.

I am a life-long advocate of conservative philosophy, and have been an active member of the Putnam County Republican Party for many years. I believe in the right to life and the sanctity of marriage. With more than 35 years of experience, I appreciate your vote and your confidence in me.

Sign regulations At the conclusion of a primary, general or special election, candidates are responsible for the removal of any signs, posters or placards advocating their candidacy that have been placed on highway right-of-ways or other publicly-owned property. The removal of such materials shall be accomplished within a reasonable period of time, not to exceed three weeks.

(TCA 2-1-116) A candidate in a primary election who will be a candidate in the following general election will not be required to remove any signs until the conclusion of the general or special election.

Cookeville Zoning Code, which applies to political signs: 207.3C No sign shall be located on, or attached to, any public property except public signs authorized by the City of Cookeville or the State of Tennessee.

207.4D Political signs can be displayed on private property with the consent of the owner. Such signs shall not exceed 32 square feet in sign face area. Any such sign that relates to an election or other specific event shall be removed within 14 days after the completion of said election or event.

The owner of the property on which the sign is located shall be responsible for its removal.

In a nutshell, signs are not permitted on city property and this includes utility poles as well as the city’s rights-of-way (this also applies to any planters in the downtown area around the square and the west side). A good rule of thumb is to only place signs on private property, with the permission of the property owner, at least 15 feet from the edge of the street.

Banners across city streets are not permitted. Please make sure your signs do not interfere with automobile or pedestrian visibility. City personnel are required to remove any signs that are in violation of the regulations.

HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 13, 2014 — A3

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Election

2014

COUNT Y PRIMARIES

County Executive NAME: Kim Blaylock POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: 931-839-3914 FAMILY MEMBERS: Mike and Levi Blaylock, Jake and Amy Blaylock New and Lily Kate, Andy and Charlotte Blaylock Looper, Trenton and Darcie.

Blaylock EDUCATION: BS in business administration — accounting from Tennessee Tech, licensed certified public accountant.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Church of Christ.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Member of Cookeville Noon Day Rotary, coached youth baseball and basketball for nearly 20 years, served as treasurer of youth baseball and basketball leagues for nearly 20 years, served as treasurer of youth baseball and basketball leagues for nearly 20 years, served as treasurer for the Uffelman PTO, MHS Project Graduation, MHS athletic foundation and Girl Scouts, volunteer for Habitat for Humanity Cooking on the Square, Leadership Putnam Class of 2002, served on the Putnam County Parks and Recreation board for more than 10 years.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: My family, music and sports.

HONORS/AWARDS: Valedictorian, MHS class of 1980; appointed by Governor Phil Bredesen to serve on the Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Putnam County School Board, 1998.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County executive CURRENT OCCUPATION: County executive/certified public accountant WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: Putnam County government is a multi-million dollar a year business and the county executive is the finance director. Some of the responsibilities of the county executive include preparing and managing $50 million worth of budgets for various funds, oversight of financial transactions, human resource and accounting issues, debt management and providing financial analysis, advice and planning.

Anyone 25 years old and a resident of the county can run for county executive. It is up to the voter to understand the responsibilities of the office and evaluate the candidate’s qualifications for the job.

I’m a licensed certified public accountant with nearly 30 years experience in governmental auditing, accounting and finance and have used my knowledge and experience to benefit our county. During my tenure, our budgetary general operating revenues have increased by $9.3 million from $1.7 million to $11 million. This was accomplished by sound management practices and no increases in this fund in the last six years. Because of increasing reserves, our bond credit rating improved two levels.

Putnam County has a Moody’s rating of Aa2. Few counties in our state have a credit rating that high.

Because our credit rating is higher, our interest rates on bonds issued have been lower. More than $7 million in interest costs have been saved on our last three borrowings. People say, “Our county is broke. We have too much debt.” Nothing could be further from the truth. We have debt, but it is managed. We have made progress by building needed facilities and have the resources available to repay what we owe. If our county were in a bad financial condition, our credit rating would be going down, not up.

Putnam County’s unemployment rate is below the state and national average. We have moved forward with projects that have and will create and retain jobs.

The success of our families, our businesses and our government depends on one thing: the ability to manage our finances. Financial management is about doing “more with less.” Putnam County has more money in the bank, a more favorable credit rating, more progress, more jobs, less unemployment and less tax increases all during tough economic times. The numbers tell the true story. Please allow me to continue to use my knowledge and experience to keep our county on a sound financial foundation and make Putnam County a better place to live for your family and mine.

Circuit Court Clerk NAME: Marcia Borys POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: 526-8146 ADDRESS: 504 W. 12th St., Cookeville.

FAMILY MEMBERS: Sons Roland Borys and Mark Borys, mother Clara Jean Ragland McDonald.

EDUCATION: Attended Tennessee Technological Borys University, graduate of University of Tennessee Local Government Leadership Program, certified public administrator, 2004 graduate of Leadership Putnam.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Willow Avenue Church of Christ.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Police Athletic League board of directors; TSSAA BlueCross Bowl facility management team since 2009, board of directors for Leisure Services advisory committee and Clean Commission 2004-2007, Citizens Fire Academy 2004, Citizens Police Academy 2005.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Walking my dogs.

HONORS/AWARDS: Professional Woman of the Year by Cookeville Business and Professional Women 2002, Tennessee Tech Outstanding Professional Award.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Circuit Court Clerk OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Circuit Court Clerk CURRENT OCCUPATION: Circuit Court Clerk WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to serve. My door is always open and I will continue to work full-time for the people of this great county. Listed below are some of the accomplishments over the past three terms: County revenues have increased more than $661,000 in the Clerk’s office since 2002; Participated in TRACS grant program to track DUIs; Court dockets, court costs and jury service information is now available online; Credit card payments can be made through a third-party processor at no cost to the county; Local checks that can be verified are now accepted; Arranged for ATM machine to be placed in the Justice Center for convenience; Previously hand-written summonses, warrants and abstracts are now computerized; A digital court reporting system was installed in all five courtrooms at no cost to the taxpayers, eliminating the storage of audio cassettes; In July 2008, Juvenile and Probate Courts were transferred to the Circuit Court Clerk’s office; With the new computer system, we have the ability to scan documents into the case; We now have an online search available for those willing to pay a monthly fee of $25.

NAME: Leisa Carlile POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: 931-520-7675 ADDRESS: 773 Buffalo Valley Rd., Cookeville FAMILY MEMBERS: Children Anna and Ryan.

EDUCATION: BS, Business Administration with a concentration in accounting, 2003; 14 years experience Carlile in public accounting (1997-present); two years private accounting experience, 2005-2007; adjunct professor, accounting, Tennessee Technological University, 2012-present; Founder of Stanberry CPA, 2007-present; designed, tested and implemented internal controls that meet to exceed the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Issued an IPO. Assisted with four mergers while at Stanley, Inc., 2005-2007.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Life Church.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Co-founder of the Rotary Club of Cookeville — Sunset, 2012, president of the Rotary Club of Cookeville — Sunset, 2012-present, past secretary of the Rotary Club of Cookeville — Noon, 2008-2011, Tennessee Society of CPAs high school liaison, 2008-present, Leadership Putnam graduate, 2010, member AICPA, member TSPCA, member of the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce, associate member of the Upper Cumberland Homebuilders Association, 2009-present.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Painting, music, outdoors and running.

HONORS/AWARDS: Scored in the top 10 percent of all TTU business majors on the ETS exam, 2003, highest paid graduate in my class — recruited by top five CPA firm McGladrey & Pullen, LLP, based out Washington, DC, offices, 2003, AICPA Leadership Academy graduate, 2011, past chair of the AICPA scholarship committee, 2011-2013, past chair of the AICPA mentoring pilot project, 2011-2013, member-atlarge AICPA CITP champion committee — Tennessee representative, 2012-present, member-at-large AICPA insurance marketing committee, 2012-present, member-at-large AICPA practice development committee, 2013-present.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County executive CURRENT OCCUPATION: CPA, public practice WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I have been moved by heart to heart conversations that I have had with Putnam County citizens about how we can create a better future for ourselves and our children. I realize that at this point in my life, I can create greater good for Putnam County by applying my education, experience and ethical foundation to the office of Putnam County executive.

I am a Cookeville native who believes that Putnam County should be managed by someone with the expertise to run a large organization, a leader who believes that our potential has not yet been tapped and that we have the resources that we need to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens. We must be reminded that this position is not just to fulfill the duties as county executive, but must also be a leader on both the UCDD and UCHRA boards. These boards are critical to our citizens, as well as the other counties in our district. Due to the importance of the duties of the county executive, we must have a leader who is passionate about Putnam County. You will not find anyone who has the qualifications and as much for Putnam County and our district as myself.

I firmly believe our county is at a crossroad in its ability to create and sustain a prosperous future. In order to secure this vision, I will focus on four main areas.

Applying my extensive financial experience to develop and implement a sound financial strategy, applying my extensive internal control and information technology expertise to safeguard county assets, applying my business administration background to assist in positive economic development and supporting other county initiatives that improve the quality of life for our residents and visitors.

I have more than 16 years of experience and am a CPA with advanced certifications in informational technology and I am a chartered Global Management accountant. I have audited nonprofits, for profits, schools and other nonprofit organizations who received federal and state grants.

I have successfully identified, documented and assisted in the prosecution of perpetuators of fraud within various types of entities. I am an expert in designing, implementing and testing internal controls that protect entities assets from fraud.

As a CPA, I’ve based my life and career around competence, integrity, independence and objectivity and accountability. Those core principles will guide my decision-making as Putnam County executive and lay down firm roots for the financial future of our county. Together, we can put Putnam County on a path to future prosperity. Thank you for your support. Together, we will win.

NAME: Randy Porter POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: 931-267-3033 ADDRESS: 6535 Bob Lynn Rd., Cookeville.

FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife Melanie, daughter Paige, father-in-law Russ Cyphers.

EDUCATION: Associate degree in business administration, Volunteer State Community College; AssociPorter ate degree in applied science (paramedic), Volunteer State Community College; extended studies in business and accounting, Tennessee Technological University; licensed/certified as EMT-Paramedic; emergency vehicle operation instructor; American Heart CPR instructor; firefighter II and emergency mountain rescue.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Active member and deacon of Scott Avenue Baptist Church; current chairman of deacons and church treasurer.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Tennessee Tech paramedic advisory board, Tennessee Emergency Communications board, Upper Cumberland Regional Homeland Security council, Upper Cumberland EMS Directors Association, Upper Cumberland 911 Directors Association, former Rotarian.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Golf, traveling, Jeeping on weekends.

HONORS/AWARDS: I’m proud to lead a great Putnam County Emergency Medical Services team to the highest rating possible as an advanced life-support emergency ambulance service and several other awards for our outstanding cardiac resuscitation success rate. I helped lead Putnam County to awards in CPR and Automated Defibrillator use from the American Heart Association, International Fire Chiefs Association and Tennessee Hospital Association; special achievement in GIS award (2013), ESRI National Conference; Senator Joe Haynes Special Achievement in 911 award (2012), Tennessee Emergency Number Association; GIS Champion Award (2006), Tennessee Geographic Council; GIS Special Achievement Award (2006), ESRI National Conference; Community Service Award (2005), Tennessee Medical Association; Humanitarian of the Year (1999), Putnam County Jaycees; Outstanding Drug Awareness Program Award (1995), Cookeville Police Department; Citizens Safety Award (1992), Putnam County Pilot Club; Outstanding Young Public Safety Official (1990), Putnam County Jaycees.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County executive CURRENT OCCUPATION: Putnam County Emergency Medical Services director (1983-present), Putnam County coroner (1987-present), Putnam County 911 director (1991-present), Putnam County technology director (2005-present).

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: The office of Putnam County executive serves as the CEO of this great community we call home. As with any business, your CEO should be an effective leader, a sound financial manager, an objective personnel director, a strategic planner and a professional representative promoting the best interests of Putnam County.

I feel with my experience and qualifications, I am the right executive to fill the attributes listed above and lead our county to better results.

First and foremost, I am a hard-working public servant at heart and have dedicated my life to serving the citizens of this great county. If elected, I vow to continue investing my full effort into Putnam County, as I believe a strong work ethic is critical to achieving our goals and serving the public well.

Even the strongest work ethic, though, is ineffective unless it is directed properly. With my 30 years experience in Putnam County government, there’s little I have not been involved in. I’m proud to have led the second largest county department (EMS) to award-winning results over the years. And I’m honored to have worked with virtually every department in helping to achieve countywide goals. There’s not a facet of county government that I haven’t directly had a hand in or have been exposed to in some way, so I know much about the job and look forward to addressing the challenges that come with it.

Finally, it’s you, the citizens of Putnam County, who really matter. In my current roles, I am blessed to have come in contact with so many of my fellow residents and I listen to the concerns you bring me. So many people want a better Putnam County — new leadership, new ideas, new jobs, just to list some of the top priorities. If given the opportunity with your vote, I will do my best to satisfy these wishes in ways that most benefit the county as a whole and lead us toward a better community in which we live, work and play.

I am ready to put my experience to work for a stronger Putnam! I would be honored to receive your vote in the Republican primary on May 6 and the general election Aug. 7.

Trustee NAME: Freddie G. Nelson POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: 931-260-0652 ADDRESS: 199 Green Mountain Rd., Cookeville.

FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife Kathy Hunter Nelson, son Steven Nelson, parents Irene and the late Ardean Nelson, two brothers and sisters-in-law, Bob and Connie Nelson and Tom and Faye Nelson, two sisters and Nelson brother-in-law, Donna and Jeff Moss and Kathy Goolsby, mother-in-law Catherine Hunter, father-in-law the late James Hollis Hunter, brother-in-law and sister-in-law Billy and Glenda Hunter.

EDUCATION: BS and Masters degrees in special education from TTU. CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Deacon at Brotherton Freewill Baptist Church.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Vice chairman of the finance committee and executive committee of Pacesetters, Inc. and a Mason.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: All sports.

HONORS/AWARDS: State 4-H Friend of the Year award.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Former county commissioner.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Putnam County trustee CURRENT OCCUPATION: Putnam County trustee WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: The trustee’s office is an extremely important position vital to the financial well-being of our county. The trustee is the county’s banker and tax collector. This office maintains control of county funds until they are distributed on a monthly basis to governmental agencies. This office oversees the total cash flow of all county financials, collects all money owed and invests the money with only collateralized banking institutions which offer the highest interest rate.

Since I have been elected, I have made several positive changes to benefit the taxpayers. Some of the changes are that I requested to the comptroller to allow our office to set up the five payment plan, easing the burden of paying taxes all at one time; requested and approved by the county commission to move to the lower level of the courthouse, making it easier for the elderly to access; and reserved parking off of Broad Street during the busy tax season which allows people easier access to our office. My staff and I make home visits to the elderly and disabled for those who can’t get in to pay their taxes or for tax relief.

For the past four years and beyond, I have strived to be very active and attend various functions in every community of Putnam County.

In the trustee’s office, my employees and I treat you with friendly and courteous service.

My wife and I are life-long residents of Putnam County. I graduated from Putnam County Senior High School, then served in the U.S. Army from 1971-1974, then to the Army National Guard from 1974-1976. I served as a teacher in the Putnam County school system for 30 years and during that time, I was a boys basketball coach and girls’ track coach at Cookeville High School.

My wife and I have owned Nelson Trophy and Screenprinting for the past 19 years. I have been married to Kathy Hunter Nelson for 42 years and have one son, Steven, who attends Pacesetters.

As trustee, I’ve done my best to improve the office and make positive changes. My staff and I have endeavored to promote the community with courteous service and good stewards of the office entrusted to us.

NAME: Betty Tommaso POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: 931-432-1462 ADDRESS: 2675 Cloverdale Dr., Cookeville.

EDUCATION: BS, TTU, MBA (six credits) Virginia Tech, New York University, Long Island, New Tommaso York, 26 hours, MBA. CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Scout leader, Northeast facilitator, local Native American members coordinating teaching of culture and history, Putnam County schools, community volunteer.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Facing history and ourselves working with local high school, sponsoring Civil Rights exhibits and work with Holocaust survivors for the Middle Tennessee area.

HONORS/AWARDS: Field investigator recognition for zero case losses of trials, Long Island, N.Y. OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Trustee CURRENT OCCUPATION: Co-owner Tennessee Real Estate Development, Long Island, N.Y., eight years, 37 years in Cookeville.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: Business education, high school, TTU, New York University and continuing education TTU business law. Experience as a field investigator saw first hand of financial destruction due to greed, corruption and disregard of public good. In November 2011, I found public records verifying 200-plus property owners who paid zero taxes due to misrepresentation of owners. Audit by State of Tennessee in August 2012 confirmed lost money to Putnam County. From day one, I will be implementing the findings of August 2012 audit and work with all other Putnam County departments creating a sound accountable system with checks and balances.

For election information, visit the Putnam County Election Commission at 705 County Services Drive, Cookeville, TN 38501 or call (931) 526-2566; fax: (931) 526-8724 Debbie Steidl, Administrator of Elections email: dsteidl@putnamco.org

A4 — HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 13, 2014

★★★

Election

2014

COUNT Y PRIMARIES

District Attorney General NAME: Tony Craighead POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: 931-261-4265 ADDRESS: 597 Windrowe Dr., Cookeville FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife of 29 years Ann, son Zac (23), daughter Mary Elizabeth (21).

EDUCATION: BS in Political Science from Tennessee Tech University (1985), Doctor of JurispruCraighead dence, Nashville School of Law (1992), Career Prosecutor Course, National College of District Attorneys (1994), numerous prosecutor training courses (homicide, white collar crime, child abuse, drug trafficking, etc.)

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Member of First Methodist Church of Cookeville.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Vice president of Sunset Rotary of Cookeville, host of WCTE Great TV Auction, Back Stage at CPAC and Wesley Arena, MADD. HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Running, movies, reading, community theater.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: 2006-2008 interim District Attorney.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: District Attorney General.

CURRENT OCCUPATION: Deputy District Attorney.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I have the experience and a record of success in the DA’s office and the courtroom. I came to work at the DA’s office in 1991 as an intern. I was hired as an assistant after law school in 1992. I have spent my entire legal career fighting for the people of this community, prosecuting criminals, standing up in court for the rights of victims of crimes. I have spent 22 years putting murderers, child abusers, sex offenders, drug dealers, rapists, robbers, burglars and all other offenders in prison.

I have dedicated my life to this job.

When DA Bill Gibson was suspended in 2006, I was given the responsibility of running the DA’s office and performing the duties of DA. I did this for two years. During a time of great controversy, I was the DA. Some may not remember that because the office ran so effectively. I have proven I know how to successfully manage the DA’s office and make the office run effectively.

No one in this race has the in-court experience that I do.

I have stood before juries hundreds of times and tried hundreds of cases, ranging from shoplifting to death penalty cases. Many people believe that the most serious cases are murder and child sex abuse.

I have tried dozens and dozens of these cases. I have the experience, ability and a proven record of success in the courtroom.

I ask the voters of this district to simply look for the most qualified candidate, the candidate with the most courtroom experience, the candidate with a record of success in the courtroom. This job is more than what I do. This job is who I am.

I would appreciate your vote and support in the August election.

NAME: Bryant C. Dunaway POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: 931-526-6010 ADDRESS: 3341 Mine Lick Creek Road, Cookeville FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife: LeeAnn M. DunDunaway away; Children: Julianne Dunaway (12) Katie Dunaway (12) Jennings Grant Dunaway (8) EDUCATION: Graduate of the Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy; Associate in Applied Science — Tennessee Tech University; Bachelor of Science — Tennessee Tech University; Juris Doctor — Nashville School of Law CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Deacon and ministry leader — Collegeside Church of Christ CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Member of the Chamber of Commerce, secretary/board member of the Rotary Club of Cookeville, former chairman/board member of CityScape, Leadership Putnam class of 2004 alumni, former board member of Leadership Putnam, former board member of the Carmen Burnett CPR Foundation, and a leader with the Boy Scouts of America.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Shooting sports, firearms training, motorcycling, camping, hunting and fishing.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: None OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: District Attorney General CURRENT OCCUPATION: Attorney WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I believe there is currently a lack of balance in the pursuit of criminal cases in our area.

There exists a slant toward excessive plea bargains and low sentencing that I find bothersome. Much of the criminal activity in our area, be it burglary, theft or violence toward others, is related to illegal drug use and sales. Being soft on perpetrators of crime is wrong — it makes our communities less safe. As a former police officer, I know from personal experience how frustrating it can be to law enforcement personnel who work so hard on these criminal cases to see the same perpetrators get off with leniency.

I want to change that. My background, as both a police officer and an attorney, gives me a unique advantage to produce a just and proper balance in the office of the District Attorney.

NAME: Shawn C. Fry POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: 931-526-5594 ADDRESS: 165 E. Spring St., Cookeville FAMILY MEMBERS: Married to Dawn Fry for 20 years with 11 year old twins, Sydney and Austin.

EDUCATION: Cookeville High School, Tennessee Tech University (Bachelor of Science in business manFry agement) and Nashville School of Law (Juris Doctor) CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: The River Community Church.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Volunteering with Rising Above Ministries and serving on their advisory board.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Reading, travel and working out at the YMCA. HONORS/AWARDS: Current president of the Putnam County Bar Association.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: This is my first campaign seeking public office.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: District Attorney General, 13th Judicial District CURRENT OCCUPATION: Attorney at Qualls and Fry, PLLC WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I believe it is crucial that our next District Attorney have experience handling criminal cases. As a former assistant District Attorney, I was initially assigned to the F.A.I.T.H. team prosecuting domestic violence and child abuse cases. I was later assigned all cases in General Sessions Court, as well as all felony and misdemeanor cases which were the result of a traffic stop in Criminal Court. While serving as the assistant DA, I graduated from the National College of District Attorneys Career Prosecutor Course in Houston, Texas. Sixteen years ago, I decided to go into private practice and started Qualls and Fry, PLLC, with my law partner, Steve Qualls. Since leaving the DA’s office, I have focused my practice on criminal law. During the past 18 years, I have literally handled thousands of criminal cases on both the prosecution and the defense side. This makes me uniquely qualified to be our next District Attorney. In order to make changes to our criminal system, you need to understand the system from both the prosecution and defense sides. I am the only candidate in the Republican primary who has served as an assistant DA in the courtroom and practices criminal law.

My wife, Dawn Myers Fry, and I are both life-long residents of Cookeville. Dawn is also an attorney teaching business law at Tennessee Tech and was elected to the Putnam County school board in 2012. This year, Dawn and I will have been married 21 years and we have 11 year old twins, Sydney and Austin, who are students at Prescott Middle School.

Dawn and I are truly concerned about this community where we grew up and where we are raising our children. With your vote in the May 6 Republican primary, I look forward to returning to the DA’s office where my career began. I always thought that if I could one day return to the DA’s office a little older and wiser than the first time, I could do an even better job the second time around.

District Public Defender NAME: David N. Brady POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: 931-526-9141 ADDRESS: 5867 Rocky Point Rd., Cookeville FAMILY MEMBERS: Mary Kay Brady, children John Brady and Fiona Hardy EDUCATION: BA-University of Tennessee/Chattanooga in political science and psychology; JD-UniverBrady sity of Tennessee/Knoxville Law School.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Instrumental in creating drug courts in the 13th Judicial District.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: History reading.

HONORS/AWARDS: Past secretary/treasurer, president and vice president of the Tennessee District Public Defender’s Conference.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Captain, USAR, Judge Advocate General Corp OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: District Public Defender.

CURRENT OCCUPATION: Attorney WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: In the summer of 1989, I had the single honor of being appointed the first lawyer to head up an entirely new state elected office, the District Public Defender’s Office for the 13th Judicial District.

On day one, it was myself and one other lawyer from Smithville to handle the cases in the district’s seven counties. Over the course of my 25 years of service as District Public Defender, I have maintained and managed essentially the same office staff with little to no turnover and sustained three employees through their retirement.

Many years and many thousands of cases (28,000 in criminal court alone) later, and with the assistance of what is now eight lawyer assistants and three office staff, the District Public Defender’s Office remains an effective office defending citizens accused.

I am particularly proud of having been instrumental in creating Drug Courts in several of our counties to provide treatment and support for citizens seeking to recover from the scourge of drug addiction, which causes so much devastation in our communities.

If re-elected as your Public Defender, I will continue with this quest to provide rehabilitative services to those who need them so that they will be able to sustain the needs for themselves and their families and become more productive citizens of our community.

I am anxious to continue to lead the office which I had the honor to set up and lead for the last 25 years.

I ask for your support and your vote.

Poll workers The County Election Commissioners appoint Election Officials for every election. Election Day workers are appointed from the precinct in which they vote. The usual number of workers for a voting precinct is six (6). The positions are Officer, Precinct Registrar, Machine Operator/Judge and Special Judge. If the precinct is large, the number is greater than usual; extra persons for the positions can be appointed except there is only one officer in charge of a voting precinct.

The polls are open on Election Day from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Depending on the position that you are assigned, workers must be in the precinct one hour or more before the polls open to set the precinct up. We will let you know what time to arrive at your instruction class. All of the workers must stay the entire day and leave together that night. After the polls close at 7 p.m., all the machines are read and recorded. Any paper ballots must be counted and recorded, and the Officer of Election and a precinct worker of a different political party shall return all materials, supplies and voting machines to the Election Commission office.

Election workers are required to attend a training school before they can work on Election Day for every election. The Election Commission pays the election worker for attending the school of instruction and for approximately a 12 hour Election Day. Putnam County Election Commission has a trained group of election workers who have been faithful helping with the elections, but we are also always in need of new recruits. There are always people who have conflicts with their schedules that miss an election or two sometimes.

A poll worker will need to be a resident and a registered voter in Putnam County. You will need to be available and able to work from 8 a.m. to approximately 7:30 p.m. on Election Day. This entire time is spent at the precinct with lunch breaks scheduled by the precinct officer in charge. We ask you to bring a bag lunch with you unless your precinct is one that shares a “covered dish” and takes turns at lunch breaks.

A 17-year-old student, even though they are not a registered voter, may serve as a poll worker in Tennessee. If you would like to do this, you may complete an application form. You must also have two teachers recommend you to our office to serve as a poll worker.

NAME: Craig P. Fickling POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: 931-528-6403 ADDRESS: 118 E. 1st St., Cookeville FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife: Melaney, son, Lee (10) EDUCATION: Millsaps College, BA, 1987; UniFickling versity of Memphis, JD, 1997 CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Member of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Vestry member 2011 to present, 2014 Senior Warden.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Member Tennessee Bar Association, Putnam County Bar association, president, 1998-2000, vice president, 1997; Upper Cumberland Trial Lawyers Association, president, 1997, vice president, 1996; former board member of the Cookeville Children’s Museum; member of the Chamber of Commerce; Putnam County Rural Health Clinic board member 2004-present; coach Cookeville High School mock trail team 1998-2005.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Camping, travel, reading, hunting and gun collecting.

HONORS/AWARDS: Dorothy Stulberg award for outstanding pro-bono service, 1999.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: None.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: District Public Defender.

CURRENT OCCUPATION: Attorney.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: Everyone, regardless of who they are or where they are from, has the same basic Constitutional rights to justice and equality under the law. The office of Public Defender protects the rights of those who are less fortunate. If some of us are denied our Constitutional rights, then it is only a matter of time before all of us are denied our rights. After all, justice denied to one is justice denied to all.

For the past 23 years, I have been representing our friends, neighbors and relatives in the Upper Cumberland who have found themselves in need of a competent legal defense. Nearly two decades ago, I was selected for the Federal Criminal Justice Panel, and since that time, I have been involved in some of the most complicated and complex criminal cases in this state.

Currently, I am one of only 60 attorneys in the Middle Tennessee who is eligible to be appointed to federal criminal cases. I have successfully tried hundreds of cases and have dedicated my professional life to upholding the law in our justice system. Because of that dedication and more than 23 years of experience, I believe I have earned the respect of other attorneys, jurists and my clients. And, as such, I believe I can effectively execute the office of Public Defender and work tirelessly to protect everyone’s Constitutional rights.

NAME: Edwin G. Sadler POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: 931-537-6756 ADDRESS: 3923 Plantation Dr., Cookeville.

FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife: Jane Craighead Sadler; son: Brett (wife Krystyn Cochran), Bryan, Blake and daughter Sonja Sadler House (husband Sadler Billy House Jr.).

EDUCATION: Graduate of University of Tennessee - Knoxville (1970); graduate of Nashville School of Law (1975); and graduate of Career Prosecutor School in San Diego, Calif.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Member of the church of Christ.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: NRA, Wild Turkey Federation, Masonic Lodge HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Golf, hunting, farming, guns, motorcycles.

HONORS/AWARDS: “Others Before Self” awarded by the Putnam County Bar Association.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 13th District Public Defender.

CURRENT OCCUPATION: 15th District Assistant Attorney General.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I have spent my career representing and standing up for the rights of people. I am the only candidate that has experience both as a defense attorney and a prosecutor. I have earned the trust of both law enforcement and people charged with crimes. Honor and duty are two characteristics that I possess and will maintain those attributes as long as I live. This community has been good to me and I hope to have the opportunity to give back as a public servant.

NAME: John Milton Meadows POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: 931-265-3808 ADDRESS: 159 Rustling Oaks Dr., Sparta FAMILY MEMBERS: My wife of 15 years, Arlene Meadows and daughters Avery and Allison Meadows.

Meadows EDUCATION: Undergraduate degrees in sociology and criminal justice from Tennessee Tech University and Doctor of Jurisprudence from Nashville School of Law. CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: My family and I attend Sparta First Baptist Church in White County.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: City attorney for the Town of Livingston since 2008, general counsel for the White County Emergency Communications District since 2012, volunteer for the mock trial/justice system presentations for both the youth and adult Leadership Overton classes for several years, volunteer for Clay County SADD/Anti-Drug Coalition mock DUI trial, delegate for the Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency’s corrections/residential centers advisory board since 2010.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: I enjoy spending time with my family.

I play the guitar and both of my daughters have taken piano lessons for the past three years so our home is often filled with music.

HONORS/AWARDS: Inducted into the Cooper’s Inn Honor Society of Nashville School of Law for highest attainments in the study of law, Dedicated Service Award from the State of Tennessee.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: District Public Defender.

CURRENT OCCUPATION: Attorney in private practice.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I am seeking to serve as the District Public Defender because I’m passionate about helping others and believe that everyone should be treated fairly regardless of their economic status. For the past 17 years, I’ve been entrenched in the justice system which began when I was a college intern at a local probation office.

Just prior to graduating from TTU, I began serving as a juvenile justice case manager working with troubled children in our judicial district and later became involved in the child welfare system where I worked with abused and neglected children while attending law school.

Having a background in juvenile justice and social work allowed me to attain a good understanding of people who has been an invaluable to me as an attorney in the criminal justice system. I later became a team leader for the Upper Cumberland Region’s Resource Management Unit where I supervised the staff responsible for the placement of children entering state custody, the foster parent recruitment/training unit and the transportation unit. While in this position, I was responsible for managing the Upper Cumberland’s annual multi-million dollar allocation for purchasing residential services for children in state custody. I have been trained and have experience in managing others and have experience in effectively and efficiently working within a budget and making the decisions necessary to provide the best service possible with limited resources. As a former assistant public defender in our judicial district, I know the job. I have hands-on experience in managing the high volume case loads in our criminal courts and preparing cases for trial.

I am aware that the office of District Public Defender bears a great deal of professional responsibility, not only to the individuals the office represents, but the responsibility of being a good steward of public resources, which the community and taxpayers deserve. I believe that my background, experience and dedication to helping others throughout our Judicial District have equipped me to take on the responsibility and provide new leadership to the District Public Defender’s office. I will be committed and focused on what matters most — the people of our Judicial District — which include those that the office represents as well as those that foot the bill. I would be humbled to serve as your next District Public Defender and would ask for your vote and confidence in the upcoming elections.

For election information, visit the Putnam County Election Commission website at www.putnamco.org/election

HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 13, 2014 — A5

★★★

Election

2014

COUNT Y PRIMARIES

Circuit Court Judge, Part I

Hollars

NAME: Amy V. Hollars POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: (931) 823-6453 ADDRESS: 106 Daughtery St., Livingston, 38570 FAMILY MEMBERS: Husband of 25 years - James (JJ) Hollars; children - Peter (16), Caroline (14), Aubrey (12).

EDUCATION: University of the South, B.A. in English (1988); Vanderbilt University, M.A. in English (1992); University of Tennessee College of Law, J.D.

(1995) CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: First Christian Church of Livingston; chancel choir, elder, former Moderator of Church Board, worship committee chair, and Sunday school teacher for primary class.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Basketball and football boosters for Livingston Academy and Livingston Middle School; Overton County Exchange Club; Livingston Civic and Garden Club; Overton Bar Association, 2002-present; Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands, board of directors (2002-2008).

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Reading, cooking, gardening, choral music; following our children’s sports teams HONORS/AWARDS: Valedictorian, University of the South, Class of 1988; Robert W. Green Scholar, University of Tennessee College of Law (1992-95); Chancellor’s Citation for Extraordinary Academic Achievement (University of Tennessee College of Law, 1995); Order of the Coif; Tennessee Bar Association Leadership Law, Inaugural Class (2004); Tennessee Lawyer’s Association for Women: Director at Large for Middle Tennessee (2006-2008), President (2009-10); Nominated for Middle Section of Tennessee Court of Appeals (June 2007 and October 2007); Tennessee Bar Foundation (Fellow, 2009-present).

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: In October of 2008, I was appointed by Governor Phil Bredesen as Special Circuit Judge for Circuit Court, Part I, 13th Judicial District. This was an interim appointment with the same responsibilities as the position of Circuit Judge. I was appointed Circuit Judge by Governor Bredesen in June of 2009. Thereafter, I stood for election in the next regular election in 2010 and was elected without opposition.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Circuit Judge, Part I, 13th Judicial District CURRENT OCCUPATION: Circuit Judge, Part I, 13th Judicial District WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: The office of Circuit Court Judge is a position of public trust. In performing the duties of the office, I always try to honor that trust. Every litigant in every case deserves a fair and impartial judge, a judge who listens carefully, studies the law, and applies the law faithfully to the facts of the case. The dispute involving a small amount of money or a routine question of law demands of the judge the same attention and diligence as the more complex, high-profile case. In each case, I try to reach the correct decision under the law and the facts; however, “judging” is not just an abstract, intellectual exercise.

Individuals and businesses with real problems access the courts to resolve their disputes and secure their rights under the law. Because I know that my decisions may have serious and sometimes painful consequences for the parties, I feel a special obligation to “get it right.” I also believe that it is important to render decisions promptly and to explain the factual and legal bases for the ruling. It is important that participants in the legal process feel that our system of justice is not arbitrary and that they have been afforded a fair hearing, even if they are dissatisfied with the result.

In performing the job of Circuit Judge, I always strive to treat the litigants, witnesses, attorneys, jurors, and court personnel with respect and courtesy. There are times when the job calls for sternness and severity.

More often, however, the job requires patience and the inclination to really listen to what the people have to say. Fairness, diligence, and respect...these are my guiding principles as your Circuit Court Judge. I now stand for reelection, seeking the support and the votes of the citizens of Putnam County and the 13th Judicial District.

Circuit Court Judge, Part II NAME: Randall A. York POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: (931) 528-5015 ADDRESS: 625 Taylors Chapel Road, Crossville, 38572 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife - Judy D. York; son Jonathan D. York; daughter - Anna R. York. Three Labrador retrievers and a cat.

York EDUCATION: White County High School (1974); Middle TN State University - BS in Political Science, History and a minor in Secondary Education (1978); Doctor of Jurisprudence, Nashville School of Law (1982).

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Homesteads Baptist Church, Crossville.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: I was chairman of the board of the Bread of Life for two years and resigned due to my appointment as District Attorney General. The Bread of Life is a Christian homeless shelter in Crossville. Previous to my appointment as District Attorney, I was on the board of directors of the Cumberland County Playhouse and the board of directors for the Tennessee Criminal Defense lawyers. I am currently on the Board of Governors of the Tennessee Bar Association where I have been involved in the mentoring program for young and new lawyers, and I am on the Federal Task Force on Human Trafficking. I served on the Executive Council for the Tennessee District Attorney General’s Conference.

I am on State Committee to evaluate and implement a program to take our court system digital. Further, I was appointed by the governor and served on the Tennessee Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee. I have also been involved in the formation of the Upper Cumberland Family Justice Center in Cookeville and the 13th Judicial District Regional Adult Drug Court.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: My wife and I have been Sunday school teachers for 17 years. I enjoy spending time at my farm, working with my dogs and woodworking. However, my primary interest is spending time with my family.

HONORS/AWARDS: I have received the Everyday Hero award from the Upper Cumberland Child Advocacy Center and I received the Champion of Children award from the Court Appointed Special Advocate Association of Tennessee (CASA of Tennessee), both of which were for my work as District Attorney General and advancing the law in the areas of child abuse and neglect and judicial forfeitures. I am only the second person eve to receive this award from CASA of Tennessee.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: I am currently the District Attorney General for the 13th Judicial District of Tennessee.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 13th Judicial District Circuit Court Judge, Part II. CURRENT OCCUPATION: District Attorney General for the 13th Judicial District of Tennessee.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: The office of Circuit Court Judge is a court of general jurisdiction. This judgeship has jurisdiction over many types of cases including cases involving personal injuries, workers compensation, will contests, land and road lawsuits, domestic relations disputes, medical malpractice, condemnation, and criminal cases. These are serious cases and the person who is elected to this position should have experience in all of these areas, as well as the areas of mediation. Prior to my appointment as District Attorney General, I was in private practice for 26 years. I have tried jury and nonjury trials in all of these areas and I have been involved in judicial mediations in many, many cases. I have tried many serious cases including medical malpractice, murder cases, products’ liability cases. I have been appointed to sit as a special judge on several cases throughout the years in general sessions cases. Simply put, experience matters and is important. I have the experience. If elected, I promise to be well informed on the law, to apply the law fairly and impartially and to be the best judge I can be. I have worked hard to improve our court system and I would continue to strive to improve our system of justice. I would ask for your vote in the August elections.

Chancellor NAME: Ron Thurman POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: (931) 526-2105 ADDRESS: 4475 Bear Lake Road, Cookeville, 38506 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife - Tina; sons - Blake (18), Parker (15).

Thurman EDUCATION: Graduate of Livingston Academy; BS degree from Tennessee Tech University; JD from University of Memphis Law School.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Member and elder at 1st Cumberland Presbyterian Church CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Has been a member or served in Cookeville Jaycees, crimestoppers, Cookeville Board of Zoning Appeals, adjunct professor at Tennessee Tech University.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Hunting, fishing, snow skiing PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Elected Chancellor in 2006 OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Chancellor of 13th Judicial District CURRENT OCCUPATION: Chancellor of 13th Judicial District WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I was elected in 2006 as Chancellor for the 13th Judicial District upon the promise that I would treat those coming before the court with respect and that all matters coming before the court would be resolved fairly. I have kept that promise. The decisions I have made have been based upon the law. I have kept the integrity of the court and established an arena where attorneys and their clients may be heard and where their matters are resolved with justice. It has been my pleasure and privilege for the last eight years to serve the people of Clay, Cumberland, DeKalb, Overton, Pickett, Putnam and White counties.

Upon re-election I will continue my efforts to make the Chancery Court a place where important and difficult legal matters are honestly and fairly resolved.

NAME: J. Lee Burgess POLITICAL PARTY: Republican EDUCATION: Graduated magna cum laude from Tennessee Technological University; graduated in the top third of his law school class at Nashville School of Law. OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Chancellor of the 13th Judicial District Burgess CURRENT OCCUPATION: Attorney WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: J. Lee Burgess is a Putnam County native whose ancestors, in return for Revolutionary War service, received a land grant covering much of what is now Putnam and White counties including appropriately Burgess Falls. Mr. Burgess has practiced law in the Upper Cumberland for more than 20 years and has belonged to various bar associations.

In what was to become one of the most challenging and successful experiences of his life, Jerry and his son Carl retraced a portion of their ancestors’ path by walking the entire length of the Appalachian Trail - a foot path stretching from Springer Mountain, Georgia, to its terminus in Mt. Katahdin, Maine - a distance of 2,180 miles. He is a Christian, husband, father, grandfather, veteran and only Republican on the Aug. 7, 2014 ballot for Chancellor of the 13th Judicial District, which includes Clay, Cumberland, DeKalb, Overton, Pickett, Putnam and White counties. Mr. Burgess’ passion is protecting children and seniors, preventing abuse, and bringing respect and decorum to the Chancery courtroom.

A few of the cases that the Chancery Court hears involve administration of estates, adoption, arbitration and agreed cases, boundary disputes, change of name, divorce, and probate of wills. Under certain narrow circumstances jury trials area allowed in Chancery Court.

The Chancellor appoints the Clerk and Master in each of the seven counties for a term of six years. Please help elect a conservative Republican to this important office. Mr. Burgess asks for your vote and your support in the Aug. 7, 2014 election. Early voting starts July 18, 2014 through Aug. 2, 2014.

NAME: Jonathan Young POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: (931) 525-3366 ADDRESS: 100 South Jefferson Ave., Cookeville, 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife - Brooke Young; parents - Homer and Pat Young of Monterey Young EDUCATION: Monterey High School; A.D. in Criminal Justice and B.S. in Political Science from Tennessee Tech University; J.D. from University of Memphis School of Law. CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Chairman of the Upper Cumberland Child Advocacy Center, Habitat for Humanity, former member of Monterey Downtown, Inc., past president of the Putnam County Bar Association, member of the Tennessee Bar Association (former young lawyer representative), Phi Delta Phi Legal Honors Fraternity and Upper Cumberland Trial Lawyers Association member.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Fishing, shooting, woodworking, Civil War and Constitutional history, reading, landscaping, spending time with my wife and dog, Oliver.

HONORS/AWARDS: Dean’s Award for academic excellence, Who’s Who Among American Law Students (University of Memphis), Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges (Tennessee Tech University).

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: None OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Circuit Court Judge Part II CURRENT OCCUPATION: Partner at the law offices of Cameron and Young.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I have never been very active in politics but have decided with the advice of friends and family that I have stayed on the sidelines long enough. I hope to bring to this office the conservative, Christian values that we hold so dear in the Upper Cumberland. These values are the ones that I learned growing up in Monterey. I have helped my clients in almost every role I can as an attorney. Now, I want to try to continue to give back to the community in the role of judge. I have learned the law and have the experience and respect from the other members of the bar to make the tough decisions. I have handled or assisted in virtually every case that came before the circuit court and have devoted my career to represent the good, honest hardworking people of the Upper Cumberland. I have worked hard for everything that I have achieved in my life and will continue to work hard to maintain the dignity of the courtroom that the public deserves. However, I am humble enough to know that I will not be perfect. I can only promise everyone that I will be fair and impartial in rendering decisions based on the evidence placed before me and the laws and Constitutions of the State of Tennessee and the United States.

I think my reputation and character speak for themselves. I will put aside my personal prejudices, personality, and partisan beliefs to render a verdict that is fair and in accordance with the law. I am willing to give everyone his or her day in court by listening to both sides in a calm and courteous manner. I am ready to conquer this new goal in my life and would greatly appreciate your vote in May and then again in August. I would hope that you would vote for me because I am the best candidate with the best experience for the job.

Criminal Court Judge, Part II NAME: David A. Patterson POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: (931) 525-1699 ADDRESS: 321 E. Spring St., Cookeville, 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Married for 40 years to Bobbie and have two children, Nate and Andrea. We were blessed with the birth of our grandson, Henry, Patterson in January.

EDUCATION: Received a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education in 1970. Received a Doctorate of Jurisprudence degree in 1989.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Bible study leader.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Adjunct professor at Tennessee Tech University, participate in the Boys State programs, participate in the Leadership Putnam and Leadership Overton programs, mentor for law students from various law schools.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Fishing and bowling.

HONORS/AWARDS: World’s Best Dad. PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Putnam County Youth Services Officer from 1983 through 1989; chief assistant district attorney from 1990 through 2006.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 13th Judicial District Criminal Court Judge, Part II CURRENT OCCUPATION: 13th Judicial District Criminal Court Judge, Part II WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I have a proven record of 30 years of service to this community and the people of the 13th Judicial District. Since being elected to the position I now hold as Criminal Court Judge, I have provided an efficient, fair, and just court process.

Jurors, attorneys, defendants, witnesses and victims of crime are treated with respect. My decisions have withstood appellate review.

Upon re-election, I will continue to care for this community to the best of my ability.

Early voting dates for the May 6, 2014, election: April 16, 2014, through May 1, 2014. More than 10,000 voters turned out in the 2010 May election accounting for 25 percent of Putnam County’s registered voters.

Ty Kernea | Herald-Citizen

A6 — HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 13, 2014

★★★

Election

2014

COUNT Y PRIMARIES

Criminal Court Judge Part I NAME: Wesley Bray POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: (931) 528-8939 ADDRESS: 311 E. Spring St., Cookeville, 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife - Ashley Mullins Bray, daughter - Addison Kate Bray (7), sons Jonah Weston Bray (5), Jasper Ashton Bray (15 Bray months).

EDUCATION: B.S. in Psychology from TTU; Doctor of Jurisprudence Law Degree from the Nashville School of Law; Rule 31 Mediator in Family Mediation training; various continuing education courses and seminars as a private attorney and also while employed with the District Attorney’s Office; licensed in U.S. Federal District Court.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Collegeside Church of Christ CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Member of the Putnam County Cattleman’s Association, the Putnam County Rod and Gun Club, the NRA, and the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. A former board Member for the Carmen Burnette CPR Education Fund, the Cookeville Breakfast Rotary Club, the Cookeville Chamber of Commerce and currently serves on the President’s Advisory board for Volunteer State Community College. Volunteered with Collegiate 4-H and serves as a YMCA soccer coach/sponsor and as an Upward basketball coach. Provide pro bono (free) work in legal matters and doesn’t charge for legal consultations.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Enjoys shooting sports, hunting, fishing, mechanic work and fabrication, running 5Ks and 1/2 marathons, weightlifting, cross training and family time with wife and little ones.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: None OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Circuit Criminal Court Judge, Part I CURRENT OCCUPATION: Attorney/business owner WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I was born and raised in the Upper Cumberland on a tobacco and beef farm in rural Clay County.

If I wasn’t working on the farm, I was playing football or doing a 4-H project. I was raised a conservative, and I am a lifelong member of the church of Christ. Very early on, my parents and grandparents instilled hard working values and common sense in me.

As a Christian, husband, father and an attorney, I understand the importance of hard work and conservative values in facing today’s problems at home and out in the world. I believe it is important to help people with their problems no matter what point in their life you find them. We have all had bad times and hopefully good times.

In practicing law the last 12 years, I have handled innumerable cases and the associated trials and required hearings. I handle a wide range of cases in criminal, civil, and family court; from wills and murder to divorce and custody to contracts and land issues along with the uncountable associated hearings with 39 criminal court jury trials and other civil trials and hearings.

While in high school, and college, I worked at Graham and Hammer Lumber Company stacking lumber then at Tennessee Tech’s Ag Pavilion setting up for cattle shows and sales. Next, I worked at Kroger, Lowe’s and finally Averitt Express’s National Call Center and the Cookeville Service Centers loading docks. I finished the last two years of night law school at NSL working full-time during the day at the District Attorney’s Office traveling around to all the counties in the 13th Judicial District as needed.

I have voted as a Republican all my life, not just lately, because a conservative party supports the Christian views that I hold dear as a Tennessean from the Upper Cumberland. The people of this state deserve a judge with balanced experience in a wide range of matters in the law. The people deserve a judge who has prosecuted criminals and as a private attorney advocating and defending citizens with criminal, civil and family issues, no matter the type of problem, nor who they are. I promise to be fair and impartial and treat everyone with the respect they deserve, without prejudice, under the law and the Constitution of the State of Tennessee and the Constitution of the United States of America.

NAME: Gary McKenzie POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: (931) 239-6043 ADDRESS: 1353 West Cemetery Rd, Cookevile, 38506 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife - Amy; children Sammy (12), Brooke (10), Ira (5).

McKenzie EDUCATION: U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School in Charlottesville, Va. Military Legal Training; U.S. Army officer leadership training at Fort Benning, Ga., Officer Basic Training; The University of Memphis, Cecil C. Humphrey’s School of Law, Juris Doctor, May 2000; Tennessee Tech University Bachelor of Science, Sociology/Criminal Justice, May 1997.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Life Church in Cookeville CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Serves on the Advisory Board for the Upper Cumberland Child Advocacy Center; Chairman of the Foundation Board for the Cookeville Sunset Rotary Club; serves on the board of directors for the Cookeville Chapter of the Disabled American Veterans.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Running, coaching daughters in basketball, Putnam County Youth Basketball League.

HONORS/AWARDS: Award the Meritorious Service Medal for his service in Iraq.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: None OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Criminal Court Judge Part 1 CURRENT OCCUPATION: Deputy District Attorney General for the 13th Judicial District and JAG Officer for the Tennessee National Guard.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: As a voter, the decision to choose who will be your next Criminal Court Judge is an extremely important one. This is a position that will deal exclusively with criminal cases. I believe a judge must be diligent, have integrity and be respectful. A judge must also have the professional competence and experience needed for this esteemed position. I have devoted my career to the practice of criminal law. I have been a prosecutor with the district attorney’s office for nearly 14 years. During that time I have handled every type of criminal case and I have been the lead attorney on more than a hundred criminal court trials. I have had the honor of representing the State of Tennessee and seeking justice under the laws of our state, while respecting the constitutional rights guaranteed to the accused. As a prosecutor, I have been able to assist many families who find themselves in sometimes tragic situations as victims of crime. I help to navigate them through our complicated judicial system. I have stood in a court room arguing on the behalf of a murder victim and I have felt the tremendous weight on my shoulders from the decisions I have to make. My career has been in service to others and I will continue that service if selected to be your Criminal Court Judge. I am a Judge Advocate General officer (JAG) with the Tennessee Army National Guard and I completed a deployment to Iraq with the 194th Engineer Brigade in 2009-2010. I currently serve at Joint Forces Headquarters in Nashville, with the Trial Defense Services. It is with this extensive experience that I believe I am now ready for the responsibility of being your next Criminal Court Judge. I would ask that you check qualifications of each candidate for Criminal Court Judge. I will be running in the Republican Primary for the May 6 election, and would appreciate your vote and support. You can learn more about me by going to my website www.mckenzie4judge.com. You may also contact me anytime by email at mckenzie4judge@gmail.com.

General Sessions Judge Part I NAME: Steve Qualls POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: (931) 526-5594 ADDRESS: 410 Concord Drive, Cookeville, 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife - Beth Crosier Qualls; son - Josh; daughter - Emily.

Qualls EDUCATION: BS Business Management, TTU and Doctor of Jurisprudence, Nashville School of Law. CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Deacon, Willow Avenue Church of Christ.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: TBI Citizens Academy, Cookeville Fire Department Academy, annual Boys State speaker.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Hiking, travel, reading and Titans football.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Cookeville vice mayor, 2002-2006, Cookeville Regional Medical Center Trustee, 2007-2012.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: General Sessions Judge, Part I CURRENT OCCUPATION: Attorney and Monterey Municipal Judge WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: Sometimes new leadership after many years is a good thing. Fortunately, Putnam County will see some real changes in this election year and I represent that change as the Republican candidate for General Sessions Judge, Part I. I am a judge that presides in a firm, fair, consistent and respectful manner. Judicial elections are for 8-year terms and I feel like I have waited patiently for my time. I have prepared for this position for many years and most importantly, I am experienced. I have served as the Monterey Municipal Judge for the last seven years and I have been a practicing attorney for the last 18 years. I have practiced mainly in the areas of probate law, family law and civil litigation. There are the types of cases primarily heard in General Sessions Court, Part I. I have also served my community. I was elected vice mayor of the City of Cookeville in 2002 where I served until 2006. I then served on the Cookeville Regional Medical Center Board of Trustees from 2007 until 2012. I am a life-long resident of Putnam County and I have countless family members who make Putnam County their home. I have been married to my wife Beth Crosier Qualls for 24 years and we have two children, Josh and Emily. We are members of the Willow Avenue Church of Christ where I serve as deacon. If you want to learn more about me or my campaign you can visit or message me on Facebook or go to www.quallsforjudge.com. I would be happy to answer any of your questions about my qualifications.

I am humbly asking for your support and vote in the May 6 Republican primary and the general election on August 7.

NAME: Nolan Goolsby POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: (931) 528-5542 ADDRESS: 353 Nash Avenue, Cookeville, 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife of 43 years - Carol Clinton Goolsby; Amy Goolsby James, daughter, and grandson, Jake James (6) of Hermitage; and, Megan Goolsby Monroe, daughter, and son-in-law, Rick Monroe, of DenGoolsby ver, Colo.

EDUCATION: Graduate of Putnam County Senior High School; Tennessee Technological University with a degree in Business Administration; and Nashville School of Law with a degree of Doctor of Jurisprudence.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Deacon and member of the board of trustees for First Baptist Church of Cookeville; adult Sunday school teacher; youth leader.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Long-time member of the Cookeville Noon Day Lions Club; Putnam County Chamber of Commerce; mock trial facilitator at American Legion Boys State; and volunteer at 2013 Blue Cross Bowl football championships.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Golf and yard work at home HONORS/AWARDS: Appointment by Governor Bill Haslam to serve on the Three Branches Institute and 2013 recipient of the McCain-Abernathy Award bestowed by the Tennessee Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: First appointed by the Putnam County Commission and then elected in 1996 as Putnam County General Sessions Judge, Part I; and county attorney for Putnam County from 1993-1996.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: General Sessions Judge, Part I CURRENT OCCUPATION: General Sessions Judge, Part I for Putnam County WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: It has been a privilege and honor for me to serve the citizens of Putnam County as their General Sessions Judge, Part I for the past 18 years. The office has jurisdiction (authority) to hear criminal, civil, domestic, probate, mental health, and juvenile cases.

I have done my utmost to treat every person coming into the judicial system respectfully, fairly, and with impartiality. My track record is well established over the years after ruling in thousands of legal matters. I believe my judicial reputation is one of being strong, decisive, tough, and fair.

I have received many legal honors over my 34 year legal career. More recently being one of seven judges from across the state appointed by Governor Bill Haslam to serve on the Three Branches Institute which is an initiative of the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services to strengthen the state’s child protection and juvenile justice systems and being awarded the McCain-Abernathy Memorial Award recipient for 2013 bestowed annually by the Tennessee Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges to a judge who has demonstrated outstanding service dedicated to the improvement of juvenile justice in Tennessee for the benefit of the children and families served by the state’s courts.

The rule of law should apply equally to all people without bias or prejudice. Partisan politics, in my opinion, have no place in our judicial system, meaning a judge’s personal and political beliefs should have absolutely no effect in the rulings he or she makes.

I feel there is a great reward and satisfaction in public service especially in the position of judge. Helping people to resolve their legal disputes and problems is a very difficult task particularly when dealing with children and families. I believe my years of judicial experience, training, and temperament makes me the most qualified candidate for the office of General Sessions Judge, Part I. I sincerely ask and will appreciate your vote to reelect me so that I may continue to serve the people of this great county and state.

NAME: William Fred Roberson, Jr. POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: (931) 526-5060 ADDRESS: 320 East Broad St., Cookeville, 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Parents - Bill and Judy Roberson Roberson; brother - Wes Roberson EDUCATION: University of Tennessee College of Law, 1995, J.D.; Transylvania University, 1992, B.A. emphasis in Finance; Cookeville High School, 1988, diploma.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: First United Methodist Church, Cookeville CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Chairman, Upper Cumberland Regional Airport Board; past board member of CityScape; board of directors Swift Museum Foundation.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Active pilot, scuba diver, bicyclist, ATV enthusiast, cattle farmer OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Criminal Court Judge, Part I CURRENT OCCUPATION: Attorney WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: My interest in the judiciary began early in life. At about age 6, I frequently intercepted Judge John Bryan as he walked home after court and on breaks.

He and his lovely wife, Tis, lived two doors down on East Broad Street which made him an easy and willing target for my questions. Operating with my geographical restrictions (about 100 feet), I asked him what had happened at the courthouse each day. I remember that he very kindly answered most of my questions. Looking back now, I suspect those early chats influenced me to a great degree in pursuing a legal career. Of course, Capshaw School’s field trip to the big courtroom upstairs in the old courthouse cemented my interest and provided a visual to go along with his stories.

In high school and college, I discovered that courtrooms were open to the public and that they were a great place to watch and learn. I often observed Judge Leon Burns or one of the other judges at work: Maddux, Neal, Turnbull, Hudson, Griffith or Goolsby. I have always enjoyed the sense of order and decorum of the courtroom.

The year the Putnam County Justice Center was built (1992), I began my studies at the UT Law School, Knoxville. After graduating in 1995, I came home to Cookeville to practice. My first office was a quiet corner in the back of our family department store. It’s very humbling to be a young lawyer striking out on your own and I was thrilled to receive a job offer from the district attorney’s office. All young lawyers appreciate a steady paycheck. My time there provided an accelerated lesson in trial practice and the experience came quickly. Hired thereafter by attorney Don Dickerson, I broadened my horizons to include civil practice. I struck out on my own again in 2000 and have been engaged in my own private practice since that time.

I have more than 18 years of experience as a practicing attorney. That is more years in the courtroom than any other candidate vying for Criminal Court Judge, Part I. I care deeply about how the criminal court functions, and the role that it plays in the daily lives of the citizens of the district. I believe in our judicial system, and want to make it even better. I humbly and respectfully ask for your vote.

General Sessions Judge Part II NAME: John Hudson POLITICAL PARTY: PHONE NUMBER: (931) 528-5541 ADDRESS: 470 Jamestown Rd., Cookeville, 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife of 43 years - ElizHudson abeth Stockton Hudson; children - Laurel Hudson of Nashville, Matthew Hudson and wife Julie of Lancing, TN; grandchildren - Maeve (4), Henry (2).

EDUCATION: B.S. from Tennessee Tech; J.D. from U.T. College of Law CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Member of Willow Avenue Church of Christ HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Gardening/landscaping, carving, bicycling PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Regional Counsel for Tennessee Department of Human Services, Assistant District Attorney General OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: General Sessions Judge, Part II CURRENT OCCUPATION: General Sessions Judge, Part II WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: For a number of years the citizens of this county have allowed me to serve as General Sessions Judge. I have done my best to uphold the confidence placed in me with integrity to apply the law fairly and consistently to those who have appeared before me regardless of their station in life. As a judge of this state, I am required to uphold its laws, whether I agree with them or not. My goal is to do so to the best of my ability, while recognizing that good decisions, be they judicial or otherwise, require common sense.

Judicial statistics reflect that perhaps with the exception of city traffic courts, when the citizens of Tennessee have formal interaction with the judicial system, nine times out of 10 it will be General Sessions Court. I wish there was some way that the experience could always be positive. Unfortunately, every time a decision is rendered, one or more of the parties involved will probably have a reason to be displeased. Even though the losing paty may be unhappy with the decision, one of the most important roles that I can fulfill as judge is to ensure that he/she felt comfortable with the process, had an opportunity to admit evidence, call witnesses in support, cross-examine witnesses for the opposing side, and address the court as to the merits of the case.

I am fortunate that I do not have an opponent in the primary or general elections this year. I, none-the-less, ask for your support and your vote.

Thank you for the opportunity you have given me to serve you.

It has been an honor.

HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 13, 2014 — A7

★★★

Election

2014

COUNT Y PRIMARIES

County Clerk NAME: Nancy Ellen Bryant POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: 931-526-6838 ADDRESS: 1743 Whitehall Court FAMILY MEMBERS: Sammy and Milly (Bryant) Talent, Bailey Talent.

EDUCATION: High school graduate, attended Bryant Tennessee Tech.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: First United Methodist Church.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: MDA (Jail and Bail).

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Landscape photography, reading, crocheting, swimming.

HONORS/AWARDS: Beta Club in high school; Tennessee driver examiner of the year, 1997, AAMVA; Cambridge Who’s Who; Manchester Who’s Who. OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Putnam County Clerk.

CURRENT OCCUPATION: Retired from the Tennessee Department of Safety.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: It is time for a change in the county clerk’s office. I have more than 30 years experience in driver license, 23 years as a supervisor, all the years were customer service oriented. A great leader taught me that a good supervisor leads their employees and never has to push them.

When the first county clerks came on board with the Tennessee Department of Safety, I wrote their training manual and trained the first clerk’s office in driver license procedures.

I was one of two from Tennessee trained by AAMVA in identifying altered and forged documents and as a result of that, I trained throughout the state in identifying documents.

While still working, I was internationally certified as a driver examiner and a commercial driver examiner.

I can bring a vast amount of experience in managerial skills to the office of Putnam County clerk, all of which will be used to the greater good of Putnam County while changing the entire environment of that office benefitting the public and employees and keeping revenues that belong in Putnam County in Putnam County.

Farley

NAME: Keith Marie (Lewis) Farley POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: 931-239-6186 ADDRESS: 4623 Shipley Road, Cookeville FAMILY MEMBERS: Husband Tim (married 34 years), son and daughter-in-law Kyle and Courtney (Denton) Farley, son Kevin Farley, parents the late James A. and Joan (Speakman) Lewis, in-laws Frank and Kathleen (Farley) Davis and the late T.M. Far-

ley.

EDUCATION: 1977 graduate of Putnam County Senior High School.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Knight’s Chapel Freewill Baptist church, teach Sunday school, involved in the women’s auxiliary and serve in various committees in the church.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Spending time with my family and church family, boating, camping, fishing and bowling.

HONORS/AWARDS: My two greatest honors: being a wife and mother.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County clerk.

CURRENT OCCUPATION: Deputy clerk in the Putnam County Circuit Court Clerk’s office (11 1/2 years).

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I was born and raised in Putnam County, a county I’m proud to call my home. Growing up, I was taught the value of hard work and dedicated service to others and believe that before you can be a leader, you must first know how to serve. At the age of 17, I took my first job in the county clerk’s office where I worked both full and part time until I was 42. I worked under the administration of two county clerks, Juanita Nabors (five years) and Ruth Ann Woolbright (20 years). With 25 years experience in the clerk’s office, I feel that I have the knowledge and qualifications needed to run a successful office. My mother raised me to be honest, trustworthy and dependable and to always treat others with respect.

I have applied these lessons to my life and would appreciate the opportunity to put them and my experience to work for you. I humbly ask for your vote and support.

NAME: John Garland Western POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: 931-252-5705 ADDRESS: 4564 South Creek Rd., Cookeville.

FAMILY MEMBERS: John F. Western and Annie D. Nash Western.

EDUCATION: BA in criminal law, graduate of Western Upperman High School.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Boiling Springs Baptist Church.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: All sports.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Judicial commissioner.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County clerk.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: My name is John Garland Western. I am running for your county clerk. I was born in this town and went to school at Baxter and Upperman High School and asking for your vote for your county clerk to bring this office back to the people of Putnam County. I will not charge for weddings or take any money from the people and this office. This is the people’s office, not a one person office. The people who work in this office will have my respect and honesty. I am asking for your vote. There are three other people running for this office and they would make a great clerk, but the voter will pick the one to run this office.

NAME: Harvey McNeal POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: 931-526-2891 ADDRESS: 765 Fireside Dr., Cookeville.

FAMILY MEMBERS: Married to Kelley Raines McNeal and three children, Shandrea Womack, Candace and Tyler McNeal, son-in-law McNeal Josh Womack and one granddaughter Addie Womack.

EDUCATION: Graduate of Putnam County Senior High School.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Currently a member of Caney Fork Baptist church. During the last 36 years, he has served his church in various roles, including teacher, treasurer, superintendent and deacon.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Enjoys working with the youth of the county. He is currently helping coach a girls 8 and under slow-pitch softball team at Cane Creek. He’s coached t-ball and little league teams at Algood and served as president of the Algood Little League. He coached girls softball teams at the Jere Whitson league, as well as travel teams that represented Putnam County across the state and at regionals in South Carolina.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Sports and American history.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County clerk.

CURRENT OCCUPATION: Retired manufacturing supervisor.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: Harvey is a true conservative. He feels the only way to run our country is to elect conservatives at every level. It is especially important at the local level where your tax dollars are spent. Harvey believes that to build a strong conservative nation, we must start at the ground level with county and city elections.

He is qualified. Harvey graduated from Putnam County High School and attended Tennessee Technological University. After working as a DJ for a local radio station, he entered local industry. At Sunbeam/Oster, he was a data control analyst/supervisor.

The data control department was responsible for auditing every transaction on a daily basis.

He then worked as a supervisor at TRW Automotive (Fortune 500 company) for several years. There, he was responsible for supervising 65+ employees in four departments and creating each department’s budget and operating within those budgets.

He has spent a majority of his career in the business world.

Harvey believes that elected offices need to be run efficiently in a business-like manner and not in a political way. Decisions should be made based on the judgment of citizens’ needs.

Elected offices belong to the people and not the office-holder.

As Putnam County clerk, Harvey would be honored to serve all of Putnam County and believe the office should be run in a way that follows all state and federal laws. With Harvey as your county clerk, everyone will be treated fairly, equally and with the utmost respect.

The county clerk office is important to all residents of Putnam County. You cannot go wrong with Harvey McNeal. Please join us on May 6 in the Putnam County Republican Primary in voting for Harvey McNeal, a man of integrity and fairness, for county clerk.

NAME: Wayne Nabors POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: 528-1339 (home) 5267106 (office) ADDRESS: 3435 Poplar Grove Rd., Cookeville.

Nabors FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife Jan Nabors (married for 40 years), son Blake and his wife Bethany (Fitzpatrick) Nabors.

EDUCATION: 1973 graduate of Putnam County Senior High School, 2013 graduate of the University of Tennessee — (CTAS) as a certified public administrator.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: My family and I are members of Trinity Assembly in Algood where I play the piano.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Member of the Cookeville Noonday Rotary Club where I serve on the board of directors as Sgt. at Arms. I also serve on the board of directors of the Poplar Grove Community Center. I was a volunteer and member of the board of directors for the Putnam County chapter of the American Heart Association for 20 years. I currently emcee a number of community events throughout the year and volunteer with several organizations with events including the Cookeville Rescue Mission and WCTE. I am a graduate of Leadership Putnam class of 2002.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Music — playing the piano and organ. I have been a church pianist since I was nine years old.

This will be my 34th year traveling and playing the organ for walking horse shows. I have played for hundreds of weddings and funerals in my lifetime.

HONORS/AWARDS: A few plaques and certificates along the way, but no greater honor than to live in this great county and be privileged to be county clerk.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Elected county clerk in 2002.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County clerk.

CURRENT OCCUPATION: County clerk.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: What a tremendous blessing and honor it is to serve as county clerk of Putnam County, and I have never taken that for granted, nor the people who I serve. Since taking office in 2002, along with a wonderful team of dedicated staff, we have taken the county clerk’s office to new levels of technology and advancement and introduced levels of services never before offered. I have kept my promises and have perfected them at practically no cost to taxpayers. I extended the office hours of the annex offices in Monterey and Baxter to better serve those communities. This is provided at no extra cost to taxpayers. As a result of that, we have perfected more than 35,000 transactions resulting in hundreds of hours and hundreds of dollars in personal expense savings to the working people of this great county.

I have kept the drive-thru window open every Friday afternoon until 5:30 as I promised and it has been amazing at the folks we have been able to serve during that extended time at no extra cost to the taxpayers.

I introduced online renewal services in 2010. This has saved folks thousands of hours of convenience by being able to utilize this service. I introduced an informational website in 2010 and have kept it fully up-to-date packed full of information, available forms, tax calculations and all the services provided by the county clerk’s office.

I introduced renewals of Tennessee driver licenses beginning Jan. 1, 2012. The convenience of this service has been a blessing and has saved folks hundreds of hours of long waits at other state locations. I fully understand that folks are busy and they need their government services streamlined and as helpful for them as possible and we have done just that.

I refuse to waste taxpayer money. My record in office will show that I have turned over thousands of excess fees and monies left over out of my yearly budget to the county, which has resulted in savings for property owners and taxpayers. It has always been my goal and accomplishment, and will continue to be, to always run the office in a business manner and give quick, Ty Kernea | Herald-Citizen courteous and efficient service to everyone. I humbly ask for your vote and support to continue to serve as your county clerk There were 4,835 early and absentee votes cast in the 2010 May election, which accounted for almost half of the total votes cast. in Putnam County.

A8 — HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 13, 2014

★★★

Election

2014

COUNT Y PRIMARIES

County Commission District 1

District 2

District 3

NAME: Scott Ebersole POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: (931) 651-1219 ADDRESS: 560 Windrowe Drive, Cookeville, TN 38506 FAMILY MEMBERS: Children: Amanda and Anthony Potts, Andrew, Bailey, Molly and Daniel.

Ebersole Grandchildren: Cameron and AJ EDUCATION: Perrysburg High School CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Life Church CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Member of the Chamber of Commerce HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Golf and riding motorcycles PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: County Commissioner 1st District OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County Commissioner 1st District CURRENT OCCUPATION: President/CEO E Com Inc WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: My name is Scott Ebersole and I am running for County Commissioner in the 1st District. I have lived in Putnam County since 1989. In that time, I have come to appreciate what a great place our county is to raise a family, locate a business and also to visit. We have seen significant growth in that time because of our low cost of living, good schools and familyfriendly community. When I was elected four years ago, I ran on working to keep those values.

My experience being the president/CEO of E Com Inc., a manufacturer of laboratory seating, as well as being a father of five children (Amanda, Andrew, Bailey, Molly and Daniel), gives me real life experience on keeping those values intact. Having served on the county commission and being elected as the fiscal review committee chairman gives me insight into what it takes from a government point of view to keep those values intact as well. I have voted to keep taxes low and to make this a business-friendly environment to help new businesses.

We need to manage our growth and work to lower our county debt so we can keep our taxes low. By doing that, it will help to attract businesses and jobs to our county. This needs to be done so we can retain our young people, who are our future. I believe my experience puts me in a position to be able to continue to serve our county well.

Thank you for your time, and I ask for your vote.

NAME: Danny Frye POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 261-1581 ADDRESS: 610 N. Maple Ave., Cookeville, TN 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Married, Amy Colvard Frye EDUCATION: B.S. in business management Frye TTU (1975), law degree, Nashville School of Law (1984) CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Past member and chairman Putnam County Parks & Recreation Board and County Commission Planning Committee. Served on county budget, inter-governmental and other committees.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Classic automobiles HONORS/AWARDS: Cancer survivor PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: County commission 10th district 1998-2002 OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County commission 2nd District.

CURRENT OCCUPATION: Self-employed (rental properties) WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: The 2nd District deserves honest representation by an actual resident of the district, with more than just a personal agenda. Also a registered voter who has exercised this important right, not just as a basis to qualify as a candidate.

Having previously served as a member of this governing body, I am experienced and prepared to deal with issues that come before the commission. I pledge to represent the residents of the 2nd District justly, with dedication and integrity.

NAME: Jerry Ford POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 526-1349 ADDRESS: 2228 Massa Ave., Cookeville, TN 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Michele, Clint, Harrison and Anthony Ford Ford EDUCATION: Graduate of Cookeville High School, Tennessee Technological University, and majored in business administration from Tennessee Technological University CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Jefferson Avenue Church of Christ CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Boy Scouts of America HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Collecting/restoration antique automobiles, Scouting/camping HONORS/AWARDS: Long Rifle Award, awarded by Boy Scouts of America; Daniel Beard Award for Scouting; District Award of Merit; Scouters Award of Merit; Scout Masters Training Award; National Scout Masters Award.

PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: County commissioner District 3 for two terms OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County commissioner District 3 CURRENT OCCUPATION: Self-employed-owner Ford Rental Properties WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: Served as county commissioner 3rd District for the last 12 years. As a lifetime resident of 3rd District, I have served as chairman of the Putnam County Commission, budget committee and various other city/county committees. I have received the training and experience provided by the Tennessee County Services Association, which I am also a member. I have the experience to represent my district and the people of Putnam County.

My goals are to work with the county commission to keep tax rates as low as possible, to help to see growth in Putnam County in areas of job opportunities, education and economy, help to ensure Putnam County is safe, clean and a good environment in which to raise your family, while keeping it an affordable place to live.

NAME: David “Crock” Randolph POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: (931) 526-1213 ADDRESS: 969 E. Hudgens, Cookeville, TN 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife, Jeaneal; son, Bill; daughter, LeAnn Delk (John); two grandsons, Alex Randolph and Wes Delk EDUCATION: Educated in White and Putnam counties school systems CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Member at Collegeside Church of Christ HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Remodeling older houses and spending lots of time with my grandsons PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: County commissioner from 2000-2010 OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County commissioner 1st District CURRENT OCCUPATION: Retired lieutenant from Cookeville Fire Department, 25 years.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: Having been a commissioner in the past, I helped seniors with property tax breaks and many other things too lengthy to go into. I feel like I have contributed to making Cookeville and Putnam County a better place to live. I thank you for your vote.

Short

NAME: Tom Short POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: (931) 526-1243 ADDRESS: 554 Windrowe Drive, Cookeville, TN 38506 FAMILY MEMBERS: Mary (wife of 36 years); Lani (22) EDUCATION: Six years of college (no degree) CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Life

Church CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Rotary Club of Cookeville (Pres. 2014-15) HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Music, gardening, reading, sports, cooking PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Currently 1st District County Commissioner OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Same CURRENT OCCUPATION: Owner-Trademark Printing WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: Our county is in need of leadership with a vision of the future. We face funding issues (schools), what to do with the jail, what to do with our current fire department, long range property needs (fair site, etc.) and how to best implement a financial administrator for the county (financial mgmt. acct.) as suggested by auditors (3 yrs.+)

Ty Kernea | Herald-Citizen

Polls will be open on Election Day, May 6, from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m.

NAME: Jim Martin POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 528-1658 ADDRESS:1430 Jamestown Court, Cookeville, TN 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Sandy, wife and Dr. Jim Martin and Jon Martin, sons EDUCATION: Graduate, BBA, University of MisMartin sissippi; Southern Methodist University Graduate School of Banking CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: First Baptist Church, Cookeville CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Past chairman Putnam County Commission; commission committees served: budget, planning, nominating, salary, adult entertainment control, intergovernmental, rules, finance and audit; county regional planning board; past chairman Cookeville-Putnam County Chamber of Commerce; past member Highlands Initiative Board of Directors; past chairman chamber public policy committee; Highlands Residential Services Board (Cookeville Housing Authority); past chairman Cookeville Regional Medical Center Board of Trustees; Cookeville Regional Foundation Board of Directors; chairman workforce employer outreach committee; workforce investment board; joint economic/community development board; vice chairman industrial development board; chairman public building authority; Cookeville Rotary Club; Upper Cumberland Family Justice Center Board/Treasurer; 13th Judicial District drug court committee and Leadership Putnam alumnus HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Family, boating, hunting, fishing, biking, hiking, traveling and public service PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: County Commissioner District 2 OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County Commissioner District 2 CURRENT OCCUPATION: Past CEO, current vice-chairman, Putnam 1st Mercantile Bank WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I support aggressive efforts to retain existing jobs and to create new direct and indirect jobs by recruiting new business, industry and other economic engines such as medical, retirement, tourism, arts and craft, professional individuals and groups.

I support new job creation because it will increase total payroll in Putnam County, which will broaden our tax base, increase our tax revenue and enhance economic and community development.

I support lessening the tax burden levied on our homes and farms by looking for additional sources of revenue. Also, I will continue to support financial responsibility with prudent allocation and monitoring of the county budget to ensure that my fellow taxpayers, to whom I am accountable, get economical, effective management of their tax dollars.

NAME: Scott Stevens POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: (931) 261-3814 ADDRESS: 1330 Shag Rag Rd., Cookeville, TN FAMILY MEMBERS: Son, Seth Stevens, age 15 EDUCATION: H.S. Mary Persons High School, Forsyth, Ga. Stevens CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Trinity Assembly in Algood CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Wounded Warrior, Project Graduation Monterey TN, CASA, Cookeville Youth Football HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Fishing, riding motorcycles and time with my family and friends PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: None OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 2nd District county commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: Management/small business owner WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: Hello, my name is Scott Stevens. I am running for the Putnam County Commission, seeking to represent the citizens of the 2nd District. I humbly ask for your vote and support in this race.

I made my home in Cookeville in the summer of 1992. What a great decision I made! Since that time, I attended Tennessee Tech University and in 1995, I started my own business known as SRS Recovery, which I still own and operate. In March of 1999, I accepted a position with Truck Pro. During my time with Truck Pro, I have held many titles, working my way up to the management team, a position I currently hold. Our office is on Brown Avenue in the heart of the 2nd District. Through my experience being a small business owner and holding positions in business management, I have developed the skills to manage budgets, manage personnel and manage time. These skills, along with good communication, are crucial to the leadership qualities needed on our county commission.

I worship at Trinity Assembly in Algood. Growing up in a positive Christian house instilled in me great character and values. Early on in our family home, I learned the importance of being conservative.

It’s very important to value what you have, not count on what you don’t. I have a strong respect and admiration for senior citizens and military veterans. There is not a future without a past. My hobbies include fishing, riding motorcycles and spending time with family and friends.

I am involved with many charities and community activities. I have coached Cookeville Youth Football. I have worked to support the Wounded Warrior Memorial Fund, Project Graduation Monterey, and the Court Appointed Special Advocates program (CASA) for Abused and Neglected Children. I am a firm supporter of the 2nd Amendment to our U.S. Constitution, and I am a proud member of the NRA. I have been encouraged by many members of our community to run for this position. After learning of Putnam County’s overwhelming debt problem, I was shocked and motivated to take a stand. Putnam County is the fifth most indebted county in the state; passing this debt off on the taxpayer is NOT an option for me, as many have not recovered from the last recession. Among my goals is to control spending in all levels of our county government, recruit industry and increase and support our local economy.

In closing, I ask for your support and your vote.

NAME: David L. Gentry POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 261-4911 ADDRESS: 1982 Freehill Rd., Cookeville, TN 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Spouse, brenda Keith Gentry; two children, Tara Gentry Price and Dustin Gentry; and five grandchildren Gentry EDUCATION: GED, general contractors’ license and electrical license CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Protestant CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Have coached baseball and softball HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Hunting, fishing, watching grandchildren play sports PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Currently county commissioner for District 3 OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 3rd District commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: General contractor WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I, David Gentry, would like to thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve as your county commissioner for the 3rd District of Putnam County. It has been my privilege and pleasure. I hope I have met the expectations you had when electing me. I have tried to keep your county property taxes low, and represented you as honestly as I know how. I have always tried to make myself available to you, my constituents. I have listened and made my decisions, based on the facts. I would like to ask for your vote again in the upcoming election on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2014.

Thank you again for the privilege of serving the 3rd District of Putnam County.

NAME: Jordan M. Iwanyszyn POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: (931) 644-2827 ADDRESS: 322 West 3rd St., Apt. 1, Cookeville, TN 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife, Rachel Iwanyszyn; parents, Joe and Joan Iwanyszyn EDUCATION: Tennessee Tech University ‘10, Iwanyszyn political science CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Sycamore Church of Christ, youth minister assistant CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Member of Breakfast Rotary Club HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Ministry, fitness and running, history, ultimate, reading PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: None OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County commission 3rd District CURRENT OCCUPATION: Hospitality supervisor, Chick-fil-A WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: Putnam County is an excellent place to call home! We live in a great area to raise a family, enjoy the great outdoors, start a business and get a good education.

Now is also an excellent time to call Putnam County home. Our county is now well-positioned to attract larger job creators and get our local economic engine up to the next gear. With vision, this is both the near future and long-term future in store for our community. Jordan M. Iwanyszyn is running for the Putnam County Commission with that vision. Jordan’s vision consists of four areas important to our county. First, on economic development. We are situated at a terrific location in the nation, with great transportation network and numerous strong resources, especially in the educational and human categories. We need more local public leaders who understand this and are ready to make a passionate case for why companies and individuals should locate here. We are particularly capable of being a hub for the high-tech, engineering and robotics industries because of our location and the proximity of Tennessee Tech.

On the issue of fiscal responsibility, Jordan is a life-long fiscal conservative. He personally knows the importance of stretching a dollar. He understands all money in the Putnam County treasury is from the hard working citizens of the county. Because of this fact, Jordan would regularly review our county budget and borrowing habits to find where we can be more efficient and build a strong fiscal house. Jordan would strive to not raise taxes because Putnam Countians are already experiencing tight budgets and wallets.

Jordan will work to improve our quality of life. He believes in a strong school system and emergency management must be supported for our public safety.

The fourth area is honesty and integrity. Jordan believes that a public service is a public trust. If blessed to be elected, Jordan would conduct the office with honesty and always keep the line open with all citizens of the county.

For more information, go to jiwanyszyn.wix.com/jordan4putnamcounty or email Jordan at jordanforputnamcounty@gmail.com.

Thank you for your support.

HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 13, 2014 — A9

★★★

Election

2014

COUNT Y PRIMARIES

County Commission District 4 NAME: Larry D. Bennett POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: (931) 839-3637 ADDRESS: 405 E. Price Ave., Monterey, TN 38574 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife, Betty Bennett; and sons, Dakota, Blake and Tim Bennett EDUCATION: High school graduate, Cookeville; Bennett Tennessee Law Enforcement Academy, served 28 years total in law enforcement CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Mineral Springs First Baptist Church, Deacon; president of the Blue Knights Law Enforcement; motorcycle club of Upper Cumberland CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Member of the Republican Party of Putnam County HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Riding motorcycles, camping, traveling, charity work in Kenya, Africa, abroad/meeting people PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: None OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 4th District County Commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: Retired from Putnam County Sheriff’s Department as of January 2014 WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: Because I care about my hometown and my community that I live in, I want to try and change things for the better here in the 4th District. I feel the taxpayers and the good citizens in my district deserve better service than what they have been getting for their tax money. I want to be able to help the people in community needs and be their voice on the issues that concern them and how it will affect them. I stand on and support American freedom of rights and God given rights.

NAME: Marshall Cox POLITICAL PARTY: Independent ADDRESS: 359 W. Meadow Creek Rd., Monterey EDUCATION: Monterey High School, state fire school in septic re-work and new septics CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Vine Ridge Missionary Baptist Church CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Putnam Cox County Fire Department, 19 years HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Woodworking HONORS/AWARDS: UCHRA man of March 2014 OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County commissioner WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: My name is Marshall Cox. Most of you know me from Monterey Ace Hardware Potter’s and Cox Backhoe, the business my wife and I own. I also am a member of the Putnam County Fire Department.

I have worked hard 19 years. I have always had a full-time public job, the fire department, and working for myself.

I have had county commission on my mind for 20 years now, and have ideas and thoughts as well. We have so much to think about in the 4th District — family, school (home school or public school), our senior citizens, library, clubs, groups, city and county. My hope is to give attention to all. When you run for office, it’s nothing to do with the person running, but everything about the people you represent — that would be all of you.

Nothing is easy, it’s not made to be. My years of service to the people of the 4th District, being with the fire department, or working on drains, septic, yards, hauling rock, whatever I have done for you, I hope my job was to my best for you.

Where would I have the time to be a county commissioner? In all my years of working, I always have time for my job, my own work and the fire department.

I can do it. I have had too many years of working to stop now. It’s what a man does in his life.

I have been married to Selina Cox for 10 years. We have one child, Elisha, age 9. Most of you may know him by Elisha’s Wildlife Feeders. He started it last spring. He was eight when he started his own business. He made money. And he is a hard worker like me. We go to Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital every so often due to his health. He uses a CPAP at night.

We couldn’t have asked God for a better child.

He also plays piano and has had three recitals by himself. He is also the spoon player for Vine Ridge Missionary Baptist church singers.

Selina homeschools Elisha. He’s in the third grade. She has a degree in early childhood education. She takes care of paperwork and bills for me and have just started Cox’s and Son Landscaping. She is an artist and plays the piano.

I hope this helps more of you to get to know me.

NAME: Joe Elder POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: (931) 252-3637 ADDRESS: 4912 Jim Smith Road, Cookeville, TN 38506 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife, Lori Elder of 22 years; one daughter, Mary Kate Elder; and two sons, Tommy Joe Elder and Johnny Elder Elder EDUCATION: 1988 graduate of Mt. Juliet High School; 1990 U.S. Army Infantry Academy; attended Southeast Missouri University in Cape Girardeau, Mo.; TTU in Cookeville; Volunteer State Community College in Livingston; and MedVance in Cookeville. I have an associate degree in radiologic technology.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Adult leader with Boy Scouts and member of Free and Accepted Masons HONORS/AWARDS: National Leadership in Business award with the Republican Congressional Committee in May 2003; delegate to D.C. on the A.S.R.T.; and served in the U.S. Army, honorably discharged PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: None, but I feel that my years of experience as a business owner and in management make me well-qualified for the job, as well as my love for the area OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 4th District County Commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: Radiological technologist WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I feel that the commissioner needs to be someone, like me, who understands what it is like to live within a budget and enjoys serving the community. Not someone who wants to be there just for the name recognition.

Someone who understands that if you can’t make your bills this month, you adjust your spending habits, not try to force people to give you more money.

That doesn’t work for the individual and that cannot and will not work for the government either. We need someone who knows how to manage a budget and how to make the hard choices that need to be made to get the job done the right way and within our financial ability to do so. I do not believe the county’s financial troubles can be solved by raising taxes or creating a new tax, like a wheel tax that I oppose and will not support, but by utilizing our resources — the Hyder-Burks pavilion, the fairgrounds and promoting TTU more to draw people into our community to spend their time here, therefore increasing our tax base.

The eastern end of the county that gets forgotten so often because we are up on the mountain, out of sight and out of mind, needs someone who will put our needs first and foremost. Someone who will promote economic and community growth for us in the 4th. Someone like me who will listen to what the people who I am there for want and need and will bring their voice to the commission.

In closing, I would like to say that I thank God for the opportunities that I have had to serve in this great county of ours and this community and that I look forward to serving this community of mine.

District 5

NAME: John Ludwig POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 252-3623 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife, Diane; and five grown children, Bradley, Brenda, Bryan, Kevin and Kraig CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Board Ludwig of directors Monterey Senior Center, vice president Monterey Depot Historical Society, Monterey Business Expo, Civitan, VFW, Lions Club, Standing Stone Historical Society, Putnam County Fair Board, Cookeville Chamber of Commerce OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 4th District County Commissioner WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: As county commissioner of District 4 for the last 3 1/2 years, I have served on the Fiscal Review Committee, Budget Committee, Delinquent Tax Committee, County Fire Study Committee, Putnam County Clean Commission board of directors and attended committee meetings to which I am not appointed to better understand all of the challenges facing Putnam County as a whole and how those challenges directly affect District 4.

To date, my single biggest challenge and greatest reward has been working with Putnam County’s commission and school board to bring to reality the construction of the much needed Monterey High School. “Go Wildcats!” I am also proud to say I was able to support the funding of the Poplar Grove bridge over Falling Water River, which directly affects District 4, the new air conditioning system for Poplar Grove Community Center and the installation of water lines in Poplar Grove and Walker Hollow ensuring the citizens have access to clean and safe water for their homes.

As county commissioner of District 4, I work “full time” to make sure I know the issues of my district and the county so I can objectively reach informed decisions before I go before the commission to represent the many challenges we face. With your vote, I will continue the ongoing efforts to clean up roadside dumping, support the needs of our children and seniors and work toward the improvements of public services for my constituents.

To maintain continuity, re-elect John Ludwig on Aug. 7, 2014.

If you need help with voter registration, obtaining absentee ballots or getting to the polls to vote, please contact me. Your vote makes a difference! Early voting begins July 18 through Aug. 2, 2014.

NAME: Greg “RED” Ray POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: (931) 839-8082 ADDRESS: 1765 Walker Hollow Road, Monterey, TN 38574 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife, Denice; children, Sierra Haley and Justin Ray Ray EDUCATION: Graduate of Monterey High School, graduate of Livingston Vocational School Auto Body Repair and Finishing CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Member of Harris Chapel Free Will Baptist Church CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Member of Monterey Masonic Lodge 751 HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Playing music, raising meat goats, logging and sawmilling PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: None OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 4th District commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: Equipment operator, Putnam County Highway Department WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I was born and raised in Putnam County. I am interested in learning more about how government works. I will keep in touch with the people in my district and vote the way they want me to. The main thing is just use common sense in spending taxpayer money so we can keep taxes from going up.

Reese

NAME: Shannon Reese POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: 372-8529 ADDRESS: 5354 Mill Creek Rd, Monterey, 38574 FAMILY MEMBERS: Husband - Albert Reges; son - Yoel Reges EDUCATION: Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene; Bachelors in Health Services Administra-

tions CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Board member of Keep Putnam County Beautiful/Clean Commission HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Running, sewing, recycling, gardening OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County Commission CURRENT OCCUPATION: Dental hygienist WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I would love to have the opportunity to further the growth in Monterey; help create jobs for those in Monterey; and, improve their lives by maintaining an idealistic lifestyle they strive for.

NAME: Jerry Roberson POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 839-6115 ADDRESS: 8799 Monterey HWY, Monterey, TN 38574 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife, two children and six grandchildren Roberson EDUCATION: Graduate of Monterey High School CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Belongs to Rocky Point Baptist Church HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Gardening, helping my fellow friends around the community and playing with the grandkids OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 4th District County Commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: Putnam County Highway Department WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I was born and raised in the 4th District; I also have lived here my entire life. I would like to see nothing more than for the 4th District to improve to the best of my ability. If elected, I will stand up for the elderly and also listen and fight for what the people want. I will give you my best and listen to all your concerns and problems. A vote for me is a vote for you. Thank you, Jerry Roberson.

NAME: Cindy Adams POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: (931) 303-8340 ADDRESS: 909 River Bend Drive, Cookeville, TN 30806 FAMILY MEMBERS: Husband of 39 years Philip Adams; daughter and son-in-law, Rachel and Darin Adams Kleeman; son and daughter-in-law, Reed and Audrey Adams; and nine beautiful grandchildren CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Active member of First Christian Church in Cookeville HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Reading, home improvement, spending time with family and friends OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County Commissioner District 5 CURRENT OCCUPATION: Homemaker WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: As a former bookkeeper and a taxpayer who handles my own family finances, I understand the importance of balancing a budget and keeping costs under control. When I was asked to run for the position of county commissioner for District 5, I was not at all interested, but I decided to sit down and visit with a current commissioner just to see what the job entails. During the course of that conversation, I heard him say that Putnam County is approximately $170,000,000 in debt right now. I was stunned to hear that news — first of all because the number was so high, and second of all because I had no idea that we had any debt. I went home from that meeting and got online to verify that his information was correct. After searching through the County Technical Assistance Service website (CTAS is a service run by the University of Tennessee to provide helpful information and advice to county governments in the state), I found a chart that showed the amount of debt for every county in Tennessee. As of 2010, Putnam County has one of the highest debts of any county in the state. At that point, I felt compelled to run for commissioner in order to do my part to get our county back to a more solid financial position.

I have never held a political office and I have never worked for any government entity, so I will bring to the commission a purely citizen/taxpayer point of view. As a Christian and a conservative, I promise that if I am elected, I will do my very best to spend your money as carefully as I do my own, to address the debt as soon as possible without raising any taxes, to safeguard our essential services, and to make Putnam County a desirable destination for both individuals and businesses looking to relocate.

I would appreciate your vote in the Republican primary on May 6.

NAME: Anna Ruth Burroughs POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: (931) 526-3023 ADDRESS: 1650 Iris Ave., Cookeville, TN 38506 FAMILY MEMBERS: The late Donald Burroughs; daughter, Kim and Curt Cooper; son, Kevin and Robin Burroughs; three grandchildren, Amanda, Ryan and Burroughs Hunter; and one great grandson, Brayden EDUCATION: I attended Putnam County Schools and some out of state CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Active officer with Cookeville Order of Eastern Star, director for Middle Tennessee Federal Credit Union, Beer Board member HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Dancing, traveling, cooking and spending time with all my friends PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Commission seat for the 1st District for eight years and the 5th District for 12 years, for a total of 20 years OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 5th District County Commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: Retired from Avery Trace where I worked for 27 years as a cook and cashier WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I study each issue and try to make the best possible decisions that will serve all Putnam County taxpayers.

I’m always available to discuss any issue or questions and be a good steward of county money.

Randolph

NAME: Terry C. Randolph POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 854-1760 ADDRESS: 3509 Tolbert Drive, Cookeville, TN 38506 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife, Tephany Randolph; children, Leslie Newman, Patrick and Christopher Randolph, Paige Baker and Austin Bates; grandchildren, Scott, Clay and Lynnsey Newman and Leaman

Randolph EDUCATION: B.S. TTU 1978; M.A. TTU 1985 HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Golf, motorcycle riding, gardening PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Presently, I am a Putnam County Commissioner representing the 5th District OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: I am seeking to be re-elected as Putnam County Commissioner representing the 5th District CURRENT OCCUPATION: The transportation supervisor for the Putnam County School System WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I was elected in 2010 on the promise that I would serve the 5th District to the best of my ability, that I would be the best county commissioner that I could be and vote for what I thought was right. During the past four years, I believe that I fulfilled my promise and my intentions not only to the residents of the 5th District, but also for all residents of Putnam County.

While being a 5th District county commissioner, I led the fight to obtain clean and usable water for the residents of Poplar Grove and Mt. Pleasant. This was a great need for those residents and a blessed achievement for us all.

I also helped in obtaining funds to renovate the Poplar Grove Community Center, which enables us to use as a voting precinct for that area.

I was instrumental in passing a resolution to obtain a new fire truck and fire house for the Dry Valley area, which will help to keep the ISO lower. This in turn will keep homeowners’ insurance from rising.

Another achievement for the 5th District will be a new bridge that connects Poplar Grove, Mt. Pleasant and Rocky Point. This will help ensure safety and eliminate some of the dangers that were associated with the old bridge.

While I was chairman of the budget committee, I had the opportunity, with all other members, to acquire the funding for a new high school in Monterey and a new middle school in Baxter. This was a much needed provision, seeing that over-crowding of students had become a problem in those areas.

While serving on the county commission, I have helped in the efforts to move forward in obtaining jobs for Putnam County.

I am proud to be part of a county commission that approved and had the courage to promote the inscription IN GOD WE TRUST on all sides of the Courthouse.

I am and continue to be a good steward of our tax dollars. With all the above accomplishments, we have maintained a strong fund balance (savings account) and continue to have a double A bond rating (good credit).

I am asking for your support and vote in the upcoming general election on Aug. 7, 2014. I have proven my ability to serve as your 5th District commissioner and will continue to so. My determination and notion in striving to make the right decisions makes me a well-rounded candidate for this position. I, Terry C. Randolph, want to be YOUR 5th District county commissioner.

A10 — HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 13, 2014

★★★

Election

2014

COUNT Y PRIMARIES

County Commission District 5 continued NAME: Ben Shannon POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: (931) 510-9622 ADDRESS: 1721 Hickory Cove, Cookeville, TN 38506 FAMILY MEMBERS: Jessica Travis Shannon (wife), Alley Jo Shannon (daughter) Shannon EDUCATION: Tennessee Tech University, Cookeville, TN. Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice/Sociology; Master’s of Education in Instructional Leadership/Administration and Supervision, December 2006 CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Cookeville Life Church CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Former (4 years) TSSAA Steering Committee member and volunteer, volunteer for Mustard Seed Ranch fundraising events, co-host of Life Group Bible study and volunteer for Habitat for Humanity.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Traveling, spending time with family, CrossFit, baseball, college football and landscaping.

HONORS/AWARDS: Former All Ohio Valley Conference Baseball player (Tennessee Tech), Golden Eagle Award of Service Excellence (presented by Dr. Bob Bell) OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County Commissioner 5th District CURRENT OCCUPATION: Senior operations manager - Turf Masters Landscape Management WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: My name is Ben Shannon and I am seeking the Republican nomination as a Putnam County commissioner in the 5th District and I am asking for your vote. In 2002, I came to Cookeville to attend Tennessee Tech University on a baseball scholarship. I graduated TTU with a B.S. in sociology/criminal justice in 2004, and an M.A. in administrative/supervision in 2006.

I then accepted a position at TTU within the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics as the director of facilities/game management. It was in this role that I learned how to manage budgets, time and personnel in an efficient and effective manner. As a Division I college athlete, being a team player was very important. I used dedication and hard work to become a leader to achieve goals and objectives.

During my tenure as a TTU senior administrator, all of these skills proved crucial, as I managed the events and facilities as well as the many community events involving the university and Putnam County. Currently, I am a managing partner and a senior operations manager of Turf Masters Landscape Management and its 20 employees.

I was raised in a conservative, Christian household, by parents who taught me family values, individual responsibility, moral character and the truths of the Bible. I am married to Jessica Travis Shannon, and we have a 12-month-old daughter, Alley Jo. We are members of Cookeville Life Church. My hobbies are physical fitness, sports and spending time with family and friends.

My father-in-law is Ron Travis, a current Tennessee State Representative, 31st District. During his 2013 freshman campaign, I worked with him, and became extremely motivated to learn more about politics, local and state government, and serving the community in which I live, work, and raise my family. I love Putnam County.

I have decided to run for office to serve my community through teamwork, building infrastructure, and encouraging economic development through the growth of business while guarding religious liberties. I support smaller government and strong conservative values.

I will work to support education, traditional marriage, senior citizens, our active and our veteran military, and a balanced budget. I want to raise my family in a community that holds strong family values and respect for each citizen and neighbor. I pledge to serve you with fairness, respect, humility and accountability.

NAME: Johnnie Wheeler POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: 931-528-7328 (home) 931520-8733 (work) FAMILY MEMBERS: One son, James, and daughter-in-law Carissa Wheeler, one daughter, Monica Walton, three grandchildren, Amanda, Amia Wheeler and Xavier, and two special daughters, Lisa Maynard and Kathy Roberts.

EDUCATION: Certified trainer and motivational trainer.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Life Church.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Cookeville Jaycees, past fair board member, past beauty pageants coordinator, Citizens Concern for Change, served on the victim offender reconciliation program, served on TTU interdisciplinary studies board, served on the board of the Cookeville Rescue Mission, serving on the Upper Cumberland Family Justice Center.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Shopping, reading, interest, community services.

HONORS/AWARDS: Humanitarian of the year, recipient of the Alice Littleton award, listed in Who’s Who for American Professional Women, HRA management employee award, business women of the year, named citizen of the year by the Impact group, citizens of the month by commissioners.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: President of the state county commissioners legislative committee board, chair pro-tempore for two years local county commissioners, served on Governor Bredesen’s department of safety board and homeland security and the meth taskforce, state chairperson for the county commissioners association, serves on the state departments of labor and workforce development board, president of the Tennessee county services association, chairman of national association of counties department of labor and workforce of Washington DC, and served as treasurer for NACO women of NACO committee.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 5th District County Commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: Career center coordinator/EEO WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I should be elected because I am a person who believes in service to the community. I am aware of the role of a commissioner. Because it is my belief that a commissioner must make decisions based on what is best for the county as a whole.

I am aware of the budget and how we need to watch the fund balance and the way we appropriate the county’s funds.

County policies have an impact on the lives of its citizens and for that reason, those citizens expect county commissioners to influence the direction of county government. I am capable and knowledgeable of this task.

I am aware of the importance of the budget and that the budget is the main tool for the county to be effective.

I know as a county commissioner, the responsibilities will be to authorize and have the knowledge to carry out policies for the county.

Policy-making means defining high level goals and long-range outcomes for the county government.

As a commissioner, I am capable to do this. As a commissioner, I will work hard to accomplish the task set for a county commissioner, which includes budgeting and appropriation of funds for all county activities building and maintaining county road, making and enforcing mandates from the state and federal mandates. I am capable, dedicated, and willing and this is why I should be elected commissioner.

NAME: Robert “Bobby” Williams POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: (931) 644-6789 ADDRESS: 3650 Rodgers Road, Cookeville, TN 38506 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife, Sharon (Lalone) Williams; daughters, Carrie (25), Shelby (22), Williams Amy (17), Kristin (15).

EDUCATION: B.S. in education and currently working on a Master’s in education.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Poplar Grove Baptist Church HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Hunting and fishing OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County commission CURRENT OCCUPATION: Salesman with Contractors Equipment (a local company that rents construction equipment to contractors, home owners and industrial customers) WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: In the past several years I have gotten really good at finding fault with the federal government. What I didn’t realize, until recently, is that many of the problems I have with Washington can be found in our local government as well.

We have too many people who have turned public service from a temporary duty to a permanent position. We have a stagnant system where some will vote one way simply because someone else is voting the other way. That is why I will support reducing the size of the county commission and enacting term limits.

We need county commissioners who will put aside petty differences and do what’s best for Putnam County. I think it is outrageous that Putnam County couldn’t attract any new manufacturing in 2013, while the State of Tennessee did very well. We have I-40, Hwy. 111, and Tennessee Tech; we should be doing a better job at recruiting new industry. That is why I will push for lower taxes, smarter spending and stronger schools.

I am running for county commissioner because I am not a politician. I am a businessman who will stand up for my county and my district, and make decisions based on what is best for both. I will do everything I can to help bring more industry to Putnam County. I will support lower taxes, smarter spending and term limits for county government. I need your support and I am asking for your vote.

NAME: Reggie Shanks POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: (931) 432-4757 ADDRESS: 1950 Mine Lick Creek Road, Cookeville, TN 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Married to the late Andelene Stout Shanks, I have three daughters, Gina Shanks Hooper, Pam Thomas and Penny Gilliam; seven grandchildren, including the late Brandon Thomas; and six great-grandchildren EDUCATION: Graduated from Baxter Seminary, graduated from Tennessee Law Enforcement Academy, and numerous law enforcement courses, including a first responder-hazardous material CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: A Cookeville Civitan member of 42 years HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Gardening and watching my grandchildren and great-grandchildren play ball HONORS/AWARDS: Being a member and chairman of the Putnam County Fair Board. When I was chairman in 1987-88, we won State Championship 3A Fair both years. It was an honor to be a law enforcement officer and to serve the people of Putnam County until I retired.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: First detective hired by the City of Cookeville 1963-64. Chief deputy sheriff under Sheriff Bill Bilyeu, retired from the Cookeville Police Department in 1995. I have represented the citizens of the 6th District as their county commissioner and have served as chairman of the commission several times.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 6th District County Commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: Retired WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I have lived in this county all my life and Putnam County is a great place to live. We have new people moving into our area every day because they know it’s a special place. We have one of the best school systems in the state, a wonderful hospital with an award-winning emergency department, good roads and recreation centers. I have worked hard to get full value of every dollar we spend and to try to keep the tax rate as low as possible. I will always represent the needs of the people of Putnam County. I ask for your vote and support for reelection as your 6th District County Commissioner.

District 6

District 7

NAME: Michael D. Reep POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 219-9080 ADDRESS:176 Mattson St., Cookeville, TN 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Brandy Reep (wife), Madison Reep (daughter), Gavin Reep (son) Reep EDUCATION: High school diploma (Warren County HS) CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Member at The River Community Church - Missions Member/Church CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Former reserve deputy sheriff, veteran of OIF 3, Stephens minister HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Carpentry, home repair/remodeling, electrical/electronics/software engineering HONORS/AWARDS: Army Commendation Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: None OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: District 6 County Commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: IT manager WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I believe it’s time to take a fresh look at the way we do things - from administration to budgeting. Too often we sit back and claim “there’s nothing we can do about it,” when much of the time we could do something, if only we would speak up! This is where our politicians come into play, but more often than not, those politicians are not deciding for the people. To solve this problem, I will be leveraging technology and social media to be a true “proxy of the people” and will vote according to the desires of those people I represent, not my own.

I am very akin to the idea of looking for every way to save as much as possible in anything I do, without sacrificing quality. I believe there are several opportunities to save money in many areas of county operation, some by leveraging technology and others by challenging the traditional way of thinking.

NAME: Bill Dyer POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 261-5417 ADDRESS: 2743 Old Salem Drive FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife Pam, son Jonathan EDUCATION: 1981 Putnam County Senior High CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: First Dyer Presbyterian CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Putnam County Fair Board 20 years plus, Cookeville Masonic Lodge 266, Fall Fun Fest volunteer, Cumberland Commandery 26 HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Gardening, music, football and travel HONORS/AWARDS: Citizen of the month PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: District 3 County Commissioner OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: District 7 County Commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: Kroger 35 years WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: As a lifelong resident of Putnam County, I would like to see the continued growth of the area while maintaining the qualities that make this such a wonderful place to live. I have seen a lot of changes through the years as the county grew from a primarily rural area to the micropolitan area it has become. I would like to help find ways for the area to grow and prosper by creating jobs and opportunities for the citizens who want to live and raise their families here. This area has been blessed with a fairly stable economy, good schools and so much natural beauty. I would like to have the opportunity to help in keeping the area progressively moving forward while protecting the heritage and history of the county.

NAME: Chris Savage POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 252-8358 ADDRESS: 1138 Tanglewood Drive, Cookeville, TN 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife, Karen Savage; son, Caleb Savage (19 years, TTU student); daughter, Courtney Savage (15 years, CHS stuSavage dent); daughter, Chloe Grace Savage (13 years, Prescott South Middle School student).

EDUCATION: Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from TTU CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Jefferson Avenue Church of Christ. I have served as a deacon for the last 13 years.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Putnam County Chamber of Commerce member, member of NFIB, ambassador for the Blue Cross Bowl, Title I Committee member.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Coaching girls softball, watching CHS Lady Cavs softball and basketball games, watching PSMS Lady Bulldogs softball, basketball and volleyball games, watching TTU baseball games.

HONORS/AWARDS: Elected as chairman of county commission, ambassador of Blue Cross Bowl PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: District 6 Putnam County Commissioner OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Putnam County District 6 County Commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: Owner of Cream City Ice Cream and Coffee House and painting contractor.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: As a student at TTU, I met my wife of almost 25 years. We have had opportunities that would have taken us away from Cookeville, but our family is drawn to this area and where we have chosen to run two small businesses and raise our children. Giving back to the community that I have learned to love and appreciate for the past 28 years is a main purpose for me to be a county commissioner. I have a sincere concern for the taxpayer and I take every vote seriously. Being one of 24 on the commission does not hold a lot of weight. However, as a group of 24 working together to make sure that most money is appropriated correctly, budgets are efficient, and the county is moving in a positive direction does carry responsibility for the people of this community. As one of those individuals, I hope I have proven to be a good representative the past four years and I ask for your continued support to represent the people of District 6.

NAME: Ken Matheney POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 267-2694 ADDRESS: 1112 Belmont Drive, Cookeville, TN 38506 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife Beth; sons BJ and Zac Matheney Matheney EDUCATION: Graduate of Putnam County High School 1976. Served in military (Army) from 19782000. Extensive leadership training in Army.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Jefferson Avenue Church of Christ CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Masons, Disabled Veterans, American Legion (past commander).

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: I enjoy helping others, working with people.

HONORS/AWARDS: Soldier Medal for Heroism while in Army, Retired Military Police.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: None OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: District 7 Commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: Maintenance, Jefferson Avenue Church of Christ WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I have a deep desire to serve the people of District 7. Having been a leader and problem solver my entire career and into retirement, I want to look for ways to help the people of District 7 and Putnam County. I believe an open line of communication is the key to help accomplish high level goals in areas such as future planning and fiscal review.

NAME: Mike Medley POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: (931) 432-5555 ADDRESS: 3630 Southmeade Dr., Cookeville, TN 38506 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife, Kathy; son, Christopher EDUCATION: Graduate of Upperman High School, Baxter Medley CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Member of Rocky Point Missionary Baptist Church HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Going to dirt track races, football games, fishing PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Commissioner, 7th District OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Commissioner, 7th District CURRENT OCCUPATION: Employee of Putnam County Highway Department WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I would like to thank the people of the 7th District for letting me represent them these last four years and would like to ask for their continued support in the upcoming election. I have strived to serve honorably while in office and to cast my vote for the benefit of the taxpayers of this county. I follow through on what I say and have never forgotten that I represent the people. With this in mind, I always try to vote the way the majority of my district would have me to.

If elected, I will continue to listen to the people who I represent.

HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 13, 2014 — A11

★★★

Election

2014

COUNT Y PRIMARIES

County Commission District 7 continued

District 8

NAME: Eris A. Bryant NAME: Larry Redwine POLITICAL PARTY: Independent POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: (931) 252-4356 PHONE NUMBER: (931) 510-0802 ADDRESS: 3424 Tightfit Road, Baster, TN 38544 ADDRESS: 3602 N. Riveroaks Drive, FAMILY MEMBERS: Carson, Shaune and Julie Cookeville, TN 38506 EDUCATION: College, two years (major accounting) FAMILY MEMBERS: Mother, Pauline RedCHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Friendwine, and sister, Lisa Peltz ship Church of God Bryant Redwine EDUCATION: Attended Sinclair and HillsborCIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Girl Scout ough Community College, graduate of LEO Acad- leader, president of Baxter Softball League, Baxter Beautification, chairemy man of planning/ chairman of public records CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Life Church — HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Swimming, reading, riding motorcycles and Parking Lot and Bag Buddies softball CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Rotary Sunset Club, HONORS/AWARDS: Girl Scout leader award DAV PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: County commissioner 8th HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Art and motorcycle riding District PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: None OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 8th District county commission OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 7th District County Com- CURRENT OCCUPATION: Human resource missioner WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I am asking for you to re-elect me as your next 8th District county commissioner because I am conservative CURRENT OCCUPATION: Retired WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I am seeking the office of with Putnam County and the tax dollars. I required all departments to be District 7 county commissioner because I believe that I have a accountable for their spending. Due to the economic times, we must all responsibility to use my skills and talents for the betterment of be slow to spend. I have been a progressive leader, a leader looking for our community. I have reached the point in my life when my the best possible ways to help with over crowding in our jail, expanding working career is over, and I can now devote a much larger por- ambulance and fire as well as building new schools so we have the best tion of my time and energy to service. The Rotary Club to which possible school for our children. All departments are vital to the citizens I belong has a motto, “Service above Self.” That sentiment has of Putnam County. As your next 8th District county commissioner, I will be a progressive leader. I will serve the people of the 8th District with been a guide for my life.

Our government was founded upon the principle that citizens honesty, loyalty and commitment and the knowledge of county government. should take an active role in the affairs of government and accept Putnam County is a great place to live and a place our families are proud the responsibility of service to their fellow citizens. As a retired to call home. I am asking you to go vote and vote Eris A. Bryant. Thank member of the U.S. Marine Corps and having then completed a you. lengthy career as a law enforcement officer, having owned and operated a private investigation firm and also having assumed a NAME: Danny Holmes leadership role in organizing our local Cookeville DAV (DisPOLITICAL PARTY: Democrat abled American Veterans) organization. I was elected commander PHONE NUMBER: (931) 858-3813 of our chapter and elected through the State Disabled American ADDRESS: 217 Highland Avenue, Baxter, TN 38544 Veterans as 4th District commander of Middle Tennessee. I have FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife-Mary; Son-Daniel experienced first-hand how government can really help people EDUCATION: High school diploma from Upperman and how government through waste, mismanagement and incomHigh School petence can actually prevent help from getting to the people who CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Boma Holmes First Church of God really need it. Our Putnam County commissioners have an aweCIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Board memsome responsibility. They must balance the needs of our county ber - Power of Putnam, Fraternal Order of Police, Tennessee Chiefs Aswith the ability of our citizens to pay the bill.

My experiences in the public and private sectors, as well as hav- sociation ing leadership roles in volunteer organizations, have provided HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Motorcycling, fishing me with insight and understanding of how to get things done ef- HONORS/AWARDS: Tommy Burks Award ficiently and with as little cost as possible. I truly believe that I OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County Commissioner 8th Diswill be able to provide insights and viewpoints that will be valu- trict able as our county commissioners debate the issues and make de- CURRENT OCCUPATION: Chief of Police, Baxter P.D. cisions. I don’t seek the office for personal gain or glory but WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I want to be a strong voice for the people in the 8th District. My office will always be available to anyone simply to do what I have always done, to put service above self. with concerns. If given the chance, I will be a good steward of our tax I will deeply appreciate your vote and your support. dollars and county resources while protecting our family and community NAME: Joe A. Trobaugh POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: (931) 267-9871 ADDRESS: 6854 Thomas Twin Oak Road, Baxter, TN 38544 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife, Shannon Trobaugh; son, Tory Trobaugh; and step-daughter, Trobaugh Breanna Ganter EDUCATION: High school graduate CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Boiling Springs Baptist Church CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: None HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Hunting and fishing HONORS/AWARDS: None PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: 7th District County Commissioner OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 7th District County Commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: Foreman at Putnam County Highway Department WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: My name is Joe Trobaugh.

I am currently seeking re-election for the 7th District County Commission seat. I have currently been the 7th District county commissioner for the last 14 years and have really enjoyed working for you. I was born and raised in the 7th District all of my life. My parents are Lorene Trobaugh and the late Feei George Trobaugh. I am married and have one son and one step-daughter.

I take pride in family and friends. And I have worked for the Putnam County Highway Department for 25 years. I am asking that you vote for me, Joe Trobaugh, in the coming election and as always I will not let you down. Thank you for your support, because without your vote, I would not have been your county commissioner. So thank you again and please vote Joe Trobaugh working for you.

values.

NAME: Ben Rodgers POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 510-6902 ADDRESS: 1655 Turkey Hollow Road, Baxter TN 38544 FAMILY MEMBERS: Spouse, Amy; parents, Larry and Cathy Rodgers; brother and sister-in-law, Jason and Michelle Rodgers; nieces, Alyssa and Emilee Matthews; Rodgers and nephew, Jase Rodgers EDUCATION: Upperman High School and Tennessee Tech University with a B.S. in business administration, majoring in accounting CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: My wife and I attend Stevens Street Baptist Church CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Rodgers’ Cemetery Board of Trustees; Community Initiative Inc. — secretary/treasurer; Cookeville Sunset Rotary — charter member HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Church, spending time with family, golf, supporting Upperman High School athletics HONORS/AWARDS: University of Tennessee’s Institute for Public Service MVP Customer Service award, Vice Presidential Citation Award, Project of the Year award OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 8th District County Commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: County government consultant for the University of Tennessee’s County Technical Assistance Service WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: County government is a big part of my life. My career at the University of Tennessee allows me to serve 13 counties in the Upper Cumberland concerning all matters of county government. My accounting background enables me to specialize on county finances, including annual budgets and review of county audits. I will use my knowledge of county government to better serve the citizens of the 8th District and Putnam County. I will listen to the concerns of the people of the 8th District and with the abilities God has given me to help the county commission make the best decisions for the county. I am committed to making a difference.

Absentee voting If you are unable to appear at your polling place on Election Day, or during the early voting period at the office, you may request a bymail ballot for the following reasons. (First time voters who registered by mail are not allowed to vote absentee the first time. You can call the office at (931) 526-2566 if you are in doubt.)

1. You are 60 years of age or older; 2. A physician has filed a statement with the county election commission stating that, in the physician’s judgment, the voter is medically unable to vote in person. The statement must be filed with the Election Commission not less than seven (7) days before the election and signed under the penalty of perjury. Go to www.putnamco.org/election.

3. You will be out of the county of registration during the early voting period and all day on Election Day; 4. You are a student (or spouse of a student) enrolled in an accredited college or university located outside the county of registration; 5. You are a resident of a licensed nursing home which is outside the county; 6. You are hospitalized, ill or disabled and therefore cannot vote in person, then call the office for details; 7. You are the caretaker of a hospitalized, ill or disabled person; 8. You are a candidate for an office in the election; 9. You are serving on a state or federal jury; 10. You are an election official in the election or an employee of the election commission; 11. You are observing a religious holiday; 12. You have a Commercial Drivers License, CDL (or are the spouse of a person possessing a CDL) or you have a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), and will be out of the county during the early voting period and all day on Election Day, and have no specific out-of-county or out-of-state address to receive mail during this time. You must enclose a copy of your CDL or your spouse's CDL or TWIC card.

13. You are a member of the military or you are an overseas citizen. (Complete a Standard Form 76, which is the appropriate application from armed forces, their spouses and any overseas voters. This form may be obtained from their Postal Services).

If your request contains the following information, a ballot will be mailed to you: name, date of birth, Social Security Number, residence address, phone number, your reason for voting by mail, which election you wish to vote (including any party affiliation), where to mail the ballot if out of the county and your signature.

If your request is incomplete for any reason, an official application must be mailed to you and returned to our office before a ballot can be processed. Only the request for ballot may be faxed to this number (931) 526-8724, e-mailed with an attached document that includes a scanned signature or hand delivered to our office. The delivery and return of the “ballot” must be done through the US mail. If you have problems please contact our office at (931) 526-2566.

Last day to receive request for by-mail voting or doctors statements is seven days prior to the election. Your request must be in the office by the close of business that day.

District 9 NAME: John A. Allen, Jr. POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 252-2755 ADDRESS: 2290 W. Broad St., Cookeville, TN 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Mom - Georgia Lee West Allen and Father - Albert Allen (deceased); brothers, Allen Jimmy and Jerry Allen; sister, Mary Lee Brown, all of Cookeville; seven nieces and nephews; and 13 greatnieces and great-nephews.

EDUCATION: B.S. in Animal Science, Tennessee Tech 1967; M.S. in Animal Science, University of Tennessee 1968 CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Member of Summerfield United Methodist Church CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Past president of the agriculture foundation for Tennessee Tech; president, Putnam County Fair Board; coordinator and board member of the Upper Cumberland Quilt Festival; board member for the Algood Senior Citizen Center; charter member of the Patton House Museum; board member Tennessee 4H Foundation Board; active in animal rescue; volunteer for the United Way, Red Cross and the American Cancer Society HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Landscaping and gardening, collecting antiques, animal rescue HONORS/AWARDS: Tennessee 4-H Alumni Award, Distinguished Service Award, National Association of Extension Agents Association (NAE4-HA), and 25 Year Award, National Association of Extension 4H Agents Association OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County Commissioner 9th District CURRENT OCCUPATION: Retired and coordinator of Upper Cumberland Quilt Festival WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: Since returning to Cookeville almost six years ago, I have made every effort to become involved in the community. My goal has been to give back for all the good this county gave to me while I was growing up here and getting my education.

Each time I have found a way to give back, I have also seen an opportunity to try and do more. I have never run for public office, but I will bring a wealth of private sector experience to the job of county commissioner.

My background and education position me to be able to help Putnam County continue to grow and prosper. Forty-five years of working with people in education and fundraising at the county, district, state and national levels gives me a unique perspective on the challenges we face as a growing county with limited resources.

My work with the fair board and interaction with the county commission has prompted me to want to be a county commissioner who is focused on helping the citizens of this county. When I am elected, I promise to keep that focus and always be mindful that our citizens must be at the center of all government action in this county. As your elected representative, I promise to always represent you with honesty and integrity.

NAME: Daryl Blair POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 858-6077 ADDRESS: 207 Big Ben Circle, Baxter, TN FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife, Robyn Blair; children, Emily, Shelby and Reece Blair; mother, Dorothy Phann; father, the late Robert Blair and Jack Phann; father-inlaw and mother-in-law, Kenneth and Faye Morris Blair EDUCATION: Graduate of Cookeville High School, National Fire Academy, Tennessee Fire Service and Codes Enforcement Academy, attended Volunteer State Community College.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Members of Washington Avenue Baptist Church, current vice chairman of Putnam County Commission, vice chairman of fiscal review committee, member of executive board of directors for Tennessee Alliance for Drug Endangered Children, district coordinator for TFCA Mutual Aid (Upper Cumberland region), business manager and board of directors for Tennessee Fire Chiefs Association, past president of Tennessee Fire Chiefs Association, past president of Upper Cumberland Regional Council of Fire Chiefs Association, past board member of Tennessee Communications Board Policy Advisory Committee.

CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Coach in Baxter Youth League programs, board member of Upperman Stingers Football, member of Cookeville Lodge F&AM 266, Al Menah Shrine HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Spending time with my family, farming, hunting and fishing.

HONORS/AWARDS: Serving the people of the 9th District as county commissioner, Tennessee Fire Chief of the Year, Cookeville Jaycees Outstanding Public Service Award.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Current county commissioner for 9th District.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County commissioner for 9th District CURRENT OCCUPATION: Cookeville Fire Department (Captain), Putnam County Fire Department (Chief) WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: My family and I were born and raised in Putnam County and have never left our roots. Putnam County is home to us and always will be. Putnam County is a GREAT place to live and raise a family. I believe the future is bright for Putnam County and want to be a part of making it happen for everyone. It has been an honor to serve and represent the people of the 9th District and Putnam County this past term as county commissioner. I have always been open and honest with government affairs concerning the 9th District and Putnam County. I have always listened to advice and thought out situations before acting, to try and get as much information as possible to make the right decision. I am a conservative who believes tax dollars should be spent wisely and get the best value for it. I understand what hard work is. I’ve been blessed by a family who understands that hard work pays off for the future. Being a county commissioner is not just a name, it should be someone who has common sense, high morals and values to make the right decisions. I was raised by my parents to hold and carry these purposes in life and have done that with honor and I’m proud of commitment I have to do this. I humbly ask for your vote and support in the primary election in August.

NAME: Benton Young POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 372-7676 ADDRESS: 3720 Jake Drive, Cookeville, TN 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife, Autumn; daughter, Addison EDUCATION: Upperman High School, Vol State Community College Young CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Center Grove Church of Christ CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: IAFF HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Target shooting, studying history OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County commissioner 9th District CURRENT OCCUPATION: Lieutenant Cookeville Fire Department; owner Black Rock Services WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I want to see the county continue to grow and be as prosperous as it can be. I have lived in the 9th District my entire life. I look forward to working for the people of the county and 9th district and will do the best job I can in representing you. I appreciate your support and vote.

A12 — HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 13, 2014

★★★

Election

2014

COUNT Y PRIMARIES

County Commission District 10 NAME: Kim Bradford POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 528-8332 ADDRESS: 2184 N. Pine Hill Road, Cookeville, TN 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: My husband Gary and I have been married for 30 years. We have a daughBradford ter and son-in-law, Jennifer and Jason Clark, and a son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Stacy Bradford. Both of my children are Tennessee Tech alumni. I also have four wonderful grandchildren.

EDUCATION: I graduated from Putnam County Senior High School then attended Sullivan’s Junior College of Business in Louisville, Ky. Also during my career, I have attained a basic practitioner certification and a paraprofessional certificate.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Baptist CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: I served on the Little League board of directors and the Babe Ruth board of directors.

I am a member of the Tennessee Association of Pupil Transportation. I am the TAPT region 4 director of transportation. I have been on the fair board since October 2010.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: I love traveling and spending time with my grandchildren.

HONORS/AWARDS: I received the U.S. Army Freedom Team Salute, Certificate of Appreciation in 2009 PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: 10th District county commissioner OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 10th District county commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: Currently, I am the safety and training coordinator for the Putnam County School Transportation Department. I have been employed there going on 27 years.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I have had the pleasure of serving the 10th District since the last election. It has been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done. I have met many wonderful people, and I have worked hard to represent the people of Putnam County. I love this county, it has always been my home, and I hope it always will be. I grew up in this county, married and raised my two children here. The love that I have for this county has brought me to this point and what I hope will be the opportunity to serve Putnam County as commissioner for the 10th District for a second term. Our county’s future is promising, but we need strong leaders to guide and shape that future.

Our county will continue to grow, and we need to welcome the changes that growth brings but also remember our roots and hang on to the things that make Putnam County special. With your help, we can make our county a place where everyone wants to make their home just as you and I have.

NAME: Tony Honeycutt POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 529-1564 ADDRESS: 1649 Biltmore Drive, Cookeville TN 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Sherry (wife) and five kids Honeycutt EDUCATION: High school diploma CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Life Church CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Fair board nine years HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Hunting and spending time with grandkids OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County commissioner 10th district CURRENT OCCUPATION: Owner of T&S Lawn Care WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I am a lifelong citizen of Putnam County. I have retired from Fleetguard about six years ago and then started my own business (T&S Lawn Care). I have kids and grandkids who live in this county. I want to serve the 10th District as county commissioner to help to keep our taxes as low as possible.

NAME: Kevin Maynard POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: (931) 372-7539 ADDRESS: 401 Shawn Lane, Cookeville, TN FAMILY MEMBERS: Marla Maynard (wife), Mackenzie Maynard (daughter) EDUCATION: B.S. in elementary education 1991 Maynard TTU; M.A. school administration 1995 TTU; Ed.S. instructional leadership 1998 TTU CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Collegeside Church of Christ HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Sports, movies, technology OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County commissioner District 10 CURRENT OCCUPATION: Principal, Burks Elementary School WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I wish to continue to serve the residents of the 10th District (Sycamore and Pavilion precincts) and humbly ask for the opportunity to do so. I have spent the majority of my life living in the 10th District. I have spent the last eight years serving on the county commission in various capacities. I have served as vicechair of the fiscal review, vice-chair of budget, and as a member of both the rules and ethics committee. I am also currently the commission parliamentarian. I believe that I have gained much useful experience in the last eight years that could be a benefit in my service for the district.

I supported the construction of the new emergency services facility, health department, Algood and Prescott South school projects and the new middle school for Baxter and new high school for Monterey. When a new jail annex was twice recommended to be located in the 10th District, I worked tirelessly to see that it did not become a reality.

I supported and voted for the establishment of our first full time county fire department, which will benefit many of the residents of the 10th District and Putnam County. I also supported the establishment of the Bridge retirement plan for our county police and fire department personnel.

I believe that Putnam County is a wonderful place to raise a family.

With your continued support, I will continue to promote and support policies that will keep Putnam County a wonderful place to live for the future generations as well.

District 11

NAME: Marsha K. Bowman POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat PHONE NUMBER: (931) 526-1325 ADDRESS: 8255 Anson Road, Cookeville, TN 38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Husband, Mike Bowman Sr; son, Mike Jr. and wife Katrina; son, Bowman Jamie and wife Priscilla; son, Juston and wife Betty; grandchildren, Madison Isabella, Milo Bowman; and parents Geraldine Woolbright and the late Samuel Woolbright EDUCATION: GED, Tennessee Technology Nursing School of Livingston.

CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Life Church in Cookeville CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Work with Bangham Community Center Board, UCHRA Academy, volunteer for Meals on Wheels HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Working in a library at Bangham Community Center, Hollis Moore Loftis Library for the community HONORS/AWARDS: Employee of the year NHC PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: 11th District county commissioner OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 11th District county commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: Retired from Cookeville Regional Medical Center WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I worked 6 1/2 years for NHC and 13 1/2 years for CRMC. I see how people struggle to clothe, feed, educate and care for their families and loved ones.

I’ve seen the elderly choose doing without food and medication so they could pay their light bill. I’ve worked to have a new building for the Bangham dump site, parking lot paved, education classes at the community center for the community and flu NAME: Carol Vinson shots offered. I have worked hard to make Putnam County and POLITICAL PARTY: Democrat the 11th District a better place to live. I never voted for a tax inPHONE NUMBER: (921) 526-3575 ADDRESS: 329 Linneaus Ave., Cookeville, crease while in office. I want to keep working for the 11th District and Putnam County and stop wasteful spending. I have TN38501 FAMILY MEMBERS: Husband, Bobby Vinson; worked for a tax freeze and voted to have a tax freeze for our two daughters and sons-in-law, Tammy and Kevin Bil- seniors and tax relief (which we could do both). brey and Trenda and Mickey Murphy Vinson NAME: Donny Buttram EDUCATION: High school, licensed cosmetologist POLITICAL PARTY: Independent and some vocational school PHONE NUMBER: (931) 260-3957 CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Member Double Springs ADDRESS: 3831 Post Oak Circle, Cookeville, Church of Christ TN 38506 CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: I served on the Putnam FAMILY MEMBERS: Daughter, Michelle County Fair Board for six years.

Hale and husband Jason Hale; two granddaughHOBBIES/INTERESTS: Judging fairs in the Middle Tennessee area, Buttram ters, Anna and Audrey Hale working in the yard with my flowers EDUCATION: Monterey High School, TenHONORS/AWARDS: I was honored that I was chosen to serve on the nessee Tech Tennessee State Fair Association Board of Directors for three years.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County commissioner 10th Dis- CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: 32nd degree Mason (Scottish Rite) trict CURRENT OCCUPATION: Accounting tech for the State of Ten- HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Hunting, fishing, lawn and garden, motorcycles nessee Department of Health WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: To the people of Putnam County: PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Alderman, City of Hello, my name is Carol Vinson and I’m seeking your support as I begin Monterey my campaign for county commissioner of the 10th District. As a long- OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County commissioner Distime resident of Putnam County, I am familiar with the challenges we trict 11 face as a community; high unemployment and increasing taxes just to CURRENT OCCUPATION: Cumberland County 911 comname a few. If elected, one of my goals is to lower the rate of unemploy- munications director ment in Putnam County. I will work with the other commissioners and WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: Dedicated to helping peoorganizations that will bring jobs to Putnam County. Recently, it came ple in Putnam County with more than 20 years service as an to my attention that Tennessee is one of the worst states in our nation for EMT and firefighter. Knowledge of public finance and budgets. senior hunger. As citizens, we cannot turn a blind eye to this growing Dedicated to listen to people’s concerns and issues pertaining to problem. Our seniors deserve better and should never be forgotten. In county government and address those issues as to what’s best addition, I promise to help improve education for our young people. I for our county along with living within our means of revenue would like to see more after-school programs where children can interact without burdening our citizens more. with each other, while continuing to learn in a safe and supportive environment. I know that if given a chance, I could make a positive impact NAME: Dewayne Harness on their lives. Putnam County is a great place to live. I will fight to keep POLITICAL PARTY: Independent low taxes so that it remains one of the most affordable cities in America.

PHONE NUMBER: (931) 260-3223 Your support would be greatly appreciated. Vote for a change. Vote Carol ADDRESS: 5425 Village Road, Cookeville, TN Vinson and let’s make Putnam County a better place for everyone.

38506 FAMILY MEMBERS: Mildred Harness, mother Harness EDUCATION: GED CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Life Church CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Fishing, hunting, refinishing antiques OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 11th District commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: Contractor WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I want to give back to Putnam County of myself. Eighty percent of the public does not know who or what their commissioners do. I want to get the people of Putnam County more involved with local politics. If elected, I will pay myself back the amount I have spent under $1,000, and give the rest of my pay every month to charities and mission work. I am not a wasteful spender. I will vote on your money and mine to be spent wisely. Thank you

Ty Kernea | Herald-Citizen

You can vote early beginning April 16 at the election office or on Election Day on May 6 at a designated precinct.

NAME: Steve Pierce POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 881-4898 ADDRESS: 1525 Gibbons Rd., Cookeville, TN 38506 FAMILY MEMBERS: Emily Pierce (wife); Abbie Pierce (daughter); Blake and Samantha Pierce Pierce (son and daughter-in-law) EDUCATION: Cookeville High School graduate, technical school, surveying and electrical engineering CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Member/deacon Stevens Street Baptist Church CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Volunteer football coach (18 yrs.), Algood City Cemetery board member, Cookeville-Putnam County Sports Council, Cookeville ambassador for Blue Cross Bowl HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Hunting, fishing PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: County commissioner 11th District OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Re-elect county commissioner 11th District CURRENT OCCUPATION: Engineer tech at Upper Cumberland Electric Membership Corp.

WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I am running for re-election to continue representing the citizens of the 11th District. I am a conservative and business minded person who will continue working to make sure Putnam County citizens’ tax dollars are used wisely and stretched as far as possible. Thanks for your support!

HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 13, 2014 — A13

★★★

Election

2014

COUNT Y PRIMARIES

County Commission District 12

NAME: L.D. Herron POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: (931) 537-3618 ADDRESS: 2748 Deerhaven Drive, Algood, TN 38506 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife, Sherry EDUCATION: Putnam County High School Herron (1964-1968) and BA from TTU (graduated in 1972) CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Christian Community HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Golf, fishing, grandchildren OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 12th District County Commissioner CURRENT OCCUPATION: Construction WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I have been in construction most of my adult life. I learned early that success in any endeavor comes from lots of careful planning with an eye to purpose and cost. I will spend the county’s money as I do my own — carefully and with an eye toward doing the best for the county and the taxpayers.

NAME: Mike Atwood POLITICAL PARTY: Independent PHONE NUMBER: (931) 783-0123 ADDRESS: 1002 N Plantation Dr., Cookeville TN 38506 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife Irene; children Ronny, Angelle and Jody; and six grandchildren.

Atwood EDUCATION: A.S. Mortuary Science, BBA Business Management CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Life Church CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Secretary Putnam County Regional Planning Commission, past board member of Upper Cumberland Regional Airport.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: District 12 representative of Putnam County Commission 2006-present, chairman 2012-2013.

OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County commissioner 12th District CURRENT OCCUPATION: Property manager, Premier Medical Park WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: Putnam County is on the verge of NAME: Cathy Qualls Reel experiencing tremendous growth, both in population as well as business.

POLITICAL PARTY: Independent For the past eight years, it has been a privilege to assist in bringing about PHONE NUMBER: (931) 537-9519 that progress. But the job isn’t over. Growth brings challenges which reADDRESS: 2418 Pinehill Road, Algood, TN quire vision and planning to manage. Without them, a community will 38506 become reactive as opposed to proactive. I believe leadership is about FAMILY MEMBERS: Husband, Richard Reel seeing beyond today, planning for the future and having the time to ef(30 years); son, John Reel; mother, Marie Qualls; fectively determine the best course of action to achieve our goals. My and late father, Lynon C. Qualls Reel pledge and commitment is to continue the progressive and positive diEDUCATION: Business classes, computer, cerrection we’ve started by listening to the people, exercising common sense, tificates in business — online courses, marketing fully studying the issues, and bathing it all in prayer before making deciCHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Methodist sions. Irene and I wish to thank the citizens of the 12th District for their CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Algood Lions Club, past support and confidence and humbly request your vote and endorsePutnam County Fair Board, Algood T-ball, Algood Little ment in the upcoming election. Let’s keep Putnam County moving forLeague, Cookeville Babe Ruth, Cancer Society (Call A Friend), ward. volunteer with TSSAA Football state tournament, volunteer with Fall Fun Fest, WCTE Auction, Algood Beautification CommitNAME: Kathy Sharp Finley tee POLITICAL PARTY: Independent HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Traveling, horse shows, basketball PHONE NUMBER: 931-854-1753 HONORS/AWARDS: Algood Lions Club Achievement Award ADDRESS: 150 E. Washington, Algood Sight Service chairperson (1999-2000), board member numerFAMILY MEMBERS: Husband Roger, son Matt ous awards for Putnam County Fair Board (Champion of Fair in and daughter-in-law Amanda, granddaughters Calli 2008) and Maci, son Derick Finley, stepson Chris Finley and PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: 12th District County Finley Amy, grandchildren Alex and Katie Beth.

Commissioner EDUCATION: High school graduate OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: 12th District County ComCHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Life Church missioner HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Gardening, camping and antique huntCURRENT OCCUPATION: Office administration with Walling board Supply/FBM in Algood, Tenn.

PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: Beer board in Algood OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: County commission — 12th WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I have worked very closely in helping put Putnam County in the best financial shape the District CURRENT OCCUPATION: Averitt Express, collection agency county has ever been in. In doing this, we have paid off $6 million in debt, helped citizens of the Poplar Grove area receive coordinator WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I’ve lived in Algood most of water and helped conserve the funds for the county to move formy life and grew up in Algood schools. I have family and many ward in many projects and growth to better the quality of life friends in District 12 and I would love the opportunity to give back to for our citizens in Putnam County. I have served on numerous the community that has been and continues to be a significant part of committees in county government. I am currently vice chair of my life. If elected county commissioner, I can assure taxpayers that I planning committee, worked with the road department, serving will make smart decisions about how their tax dollars are spent. I’m on the road committee, and have helped give numerous awards a very honest and forthright person and I will make decisions based to citizens and employees of Putnam County. on what is right and what makes the most sense. Each of us work hard I have worked in the business and sales market for more than to pay our taxes and deserve to have representatives in office who will 30 years. I have worked on budgets, bids and grants in the busimake conscientious decisions when it comes to spending. I want to ness world, which will allow me to become a good commisjoin other commissioners who have the same goal and become part sioner. I have worked with children, parents, teachers, coaches of a team that will have a positive impact on our county. I feel that and citizens in this community to better serve. the education of our children is important and the decisions made by This office I will serve with integrity, honesty and hard work county commissioners can have a major impact on our schools each for the citizens of the county and in the 12th District. I will alyear. I support education and will support our schools. ways work toward the best of the community and the future of I have enjoyed meeting people in my district and look forward to Putnam County. I am a life long resident of this community and meeting many more. I welcome anyone who has questions or would cherish every day. This is why I have a special interest in our like to talk with me about our district to please contact me. Please community. I will work very closely with everyone in Putnam vote for me for county commissioner in District 12. It would be my County to keep our future moving foward, always working for honor to serve you. the future.

NAME: Curtis A. Shinsky POLITICAL PARTY: Republican PHONE NUMBER: (931) 537-2882 ADDRESS: 4203 Plantation Drive, Cookeville, TN 38506 FAMILY MEMBERS: Wife - Pat EDUCATION: High school Shinsky CHURCH MEMBER OR ACTIVITIES: Jefferson Avenue Church of Christ CIVIC/COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: President of the Upper Cumberland Realty Association 1997 and 1998. Instrumental in bringing Cookeville its first computerized multiple listing service. Board of directors of the Upper Cumberland Christian Homes, three years. Chairman of the Putnam County Republican Party 2008-2012. President of the Kiwanis Club of Putnam County 2012-2013. Builders club at Avery Trace Middle School.

Military service, Navy 1958-1962.

HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Golf and gardening HONORS/AWARDS: Kiwanian of the year 2011-2012 PREVIOUS PUBLIC OFFICES HELD: None OFFICE SEEKING ELECTION: Commissioner for the 12th District CURRENT OCCUPATION: Retired WHY I SHOULD BE ELECTED: I would be a hard working and involved commissioner. I’m a man of ideas, action and organization. I like to see things get done. I intend to hold town hall type meetings every four months to inform and answer questions of the folks in the district. I’m interested in the schools and the children in them and also our teachers. Having a wife who taught for 31 years, I have heard first hand about the concerns. I would like to see new ideas, things that would enhance our community for the betterment of all who live here. Better fire protection for the 12th District and a better equipped sheriff’s department are just two things that we can do to make living in Putnam County better.

I would like to give you an insight into my business experience.

I have spent 38 years in the real estate business. I had my own real estate company in Livonia, Mich. I was first licensed in 1974, and received my brokers license in 1980. I was the president of the largest realtor association in Michigan at that time, Western Wayne and Oakland County Assoc. of Realtors. I was also president of Realtor Services Corporation and helped to bring a regional multiple listing service to South East Michigan.

After retiring and moving here in 1996, because of my experience, I was approached by the Upper Cumberland Realty Association to run for the presidency of the association. I served as president for two years, 1997-1997. I married Patricia Denny of Baxter in 1968, and have been coming to this area since then. I hope to bring my experience to the county commission and serve the people of Putnam County. I’m knocking on doors and asking for your vote and getting to know you and your concerns. Thank you.

The Putnam County Election Commission

Joan C. Ross

102 W. Cleveland Ave., Monterey, TN 38574 (839-6687)

Linda Daniel

5374 Gainesboro Grade, Cookeville, TN 38501 (526-9228)

Perry Bartlett

4307 Hwy. 70 E., Cookeville, TN 38506 (526-5111)

Jean Cody

1522 Barnes Drive, Cookeville, TN 38501 (526-1032)

Terry Herrin

7419 Southfork Road, Baxter, TN 38544 (858-1998)

Ty Kernea | Herald-Citizen

Remember to take a photo ID with you when you vote.

A14 — HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 13, 2014

ELECTION County Primaries

2014

The Herald-Citizen and the

Cookeville/Putnam County Chamber of Commerce are planning a

“ Meet The Candidates” Event on Tuesday, April 15 from 6:30pm-8:30pm at Leslie Town Centre All Putnam County political candidates are invited to attend as well as voters interested in meeting the candidates for this year’s political races.

Call 526-9715 for more information.

Light refreshments will be served