Nevada County Election June 2012 by The Union

Decision 2012

YOUR ELECTION YOUR VOTE YOUR CHOICE

2 The Union, Election 2012, May 18 & 20, 2012

Craig A. Diamond, Esq. Herb A. Miller Bryan Hewins Beth Baker Katie Heward Linda Burr Fran Freedle Ric Sheridan, PhD Nancy Garcia Roby Pracht Cheryl Heward Vern Canon Dr. and Mrs. George Rebane Joy Van Noy Larry McDonald Lavetta Moff Carol Nathan Anna Campbell Barry Pruett, Esq. Jeff Morrison Linda DeMartini David Peeler Donna Nies Eddie Garcia Elaine T. Davis Eric Rose Jean Hall Judi Caler Larry Munoz Scott Spindler Shelly Rose Suzanne Rosas Areana Munoz Susan Chalpin King McPherson, Esq. Peter Kleinbrodt, Esq. Phil Lock Roger Haines Barbara McDonald Jerry Davenport Orville Boger Dai Meagher Andi Lambert Bill Lapham Bonnie Jean Hurley Dave Dunham Jean Fox Dan DeMartini Dr. John A. Vogel Sierra Haack Stephen Smith Tony Gilchrease Tyler Harrington Chalpin Environmental Services Ted Petersen Evans Phelps Stan Smith Mark Davis Plumbing Linda Quirk Pat Nicholson Ronny Santana Dwight Johnson, Sr. Schandelle Hutson

We endorse

3-D Trucking Adrienne Groves Brent DeMartini Bruce Ivy Charles Wilson Denise Best Dennis Roberts Eunice Czarnecki Jen Heward Judy Hodge Kim Pruett Lloyd Wilson Sierra Foothills Construction Co. Suze Pfafﬁnger Jean Carli Sylvia Maxstone John Best Kathie Keefer Rob Lambert Shawn Jordan Chuck Whitten Peg Allen Jeannine Eason Randi Briggs Kevin Hughes Kelly Lapham Sandy Schmidt Kimberly Janousek Bonnie McGuire Erleen Maki

Gaylen Herfurth Lynn Costa Karen Winguth Kate Horton Elaine Meckler Robert G. Ingram Dick Read Glendora Andrews Kim M. East Lisa Dunham Lou Wilson Mark DeMartini Mike McGuire M. Catanesi Lisa Leal Carl Plaza Keoni Allen Kirk Pharis Guy Greever, Jr. Jennifer Hoffman Michele Harrington Lynne DeMartini Malisa Payne Jerome Heiberger Jim Jacobs Joe Vielbig Jimmy Czarnecki Megan McGuire Mike Sherman Will Grenz Kirk McGuire

Kris Heiberger Herb Miller Ann Boger Sandi Schaffer Ted Gilbert Teri Paulus Tim DeMartini Tina Hughes Troy Petersen Springhill Pharmacy DeMartini RV Sales Anne Heward Chip Groves David Barrett David C. Hall Deena McGuire Paula Nies Rebecca Haack Sam Pello Auburn Laboratories, Inc. Kenneth Kinder Jennifer Riley, RN Linda Munoz Robb Brewer Sheree Brewer Steven Haack Wade Freedle Brewer Heating & Air Carolyn Downey Newell Humpherys Sally Humpherys

Dave Pracht Paula Nelson Russ Steele Dan Downey Dustin Herfurth Jon DeMartini Lane Rollins Carl Fox Linda Hohns Ed Nathan Julie Johnson James O. Keefer, Esq. Audine Smith Bill Quirk David DeMartini Heather Davis Susan Morrison Clover Jacobs Brad Heward Charles S. Fowler Janette Smith George Charles Fertig Ginny Rapini Hank Silva Melody Blaz Merrill Hall Stan Meckler Mark Davis Lyndsey Barrett Greg Savelly Robert Cook

NEVADA COUNTY, CA DISTRICT 1 www.SUEFORSUPERVISOR.com

Vicky Greever Oliver Pong, Esq. Frances Sheridan Gail Anderson Dennis Haack Douglas Herfurth Ellen Steele Frank X. Pfafﬁnger Marco Rosas Priscilla Frazier Rene Antonson Margot Hall Nancy DeMartini AMAH Homecare Jeri Spooner Jodi Davis Margie DeMartini Wendy Amos Krazy Kat Designs Joel Snook Richard H. Briggs Drew McGuire Deanna McGuire Patricia Adams Timothy J. DeMartini Dave Feller Ryan Hoskin Sierra Performance John Hodge Paige Herfurth Glen Amos Valerie Rollins A. Keith Cook Bruce Johnson Ron Eason Del Rapini Arete Design Studio Ron Burnes Melvin McGuire Michael Van Noy, DVM Robert Flanigan Amos and Associates Clutter Clean A Better Fit Alterations Olive Branch Counseling Group Elite Heating & Cooling A Clean View Window Cleaning Chardon Corp dba B & C True Value Cornerstone Bookkeeping Sound Check Music Center Mailboxes Plus La Vida Buena Ranch Sierra Performance Nevada City Shoe Repair Western Sierra Realty Rollins Electric Paragon Hardwood Floors Auburn Laboratories, Inc. Nevada City Carriage Company Freitas, McCarthy, MacMahon & Keating, LLP

Paid for by Sue McGuire for Supervisor 2012 (FPPC ID #1343008)

NEVADA COUNTY SUPERVISOR candidates Susan Kay “Sue” McGuire

Ed Scofield

Age: 54 Current City: Nevada City Hometown: Nevada City Occupation: Self-employed attorney and counselor at law Education: Nevada Union High School, 1975 graduate; Lincoln Law School, Juris Doctor 1990; Licensed as Attorney and Counselor at Law, California 1991 Family: Single with no children; daughter of Mel & Bonnie McGuire; four siblings; 13 nieces and nephews; grandparents Tom & Marie McGuire, Val & Lilly Belle Baima. Website: sueforsupervisor.com/ Why are you running for this seat in 2012?

western Nevada County?

“I am concerned about the direction of my country. I believe remedies and common sense must begin at the grassroots local level. The political class must first be public servants of the residents. Periodic turnover of local representatives protects against entrenched officials who fail to respond to the people’s will. I’ve called Nevada County home for more than 50 years and have worked in this community for more than three decades in the private and public sectors. My biographical background provides me with a unique perspective and dedication that I believe will greatly benefit our community. My desire is to retain its physical beauty and ensure its economic vibrancy.”

“Adopt a ‘jobs and economic development first’ policy: Require every matter before the Board first be viewed in light of how it will affect private sector jobs.

How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat?

“Transparency in all fiscal matters. Full disclosure and acknowledgment of the actual county debt obligations to achieve a reasonable solutions, specifically but not limited to, unfunded pension liabilities.

“My family and I are sixth generation natives. I attended Nevada County schools, put myself through law school at night, was employed in Nevada County in the private and public sectors, including as a criminal prosecutor, and, have been a self-employed attorney here for nearly two decades. I have a hard work ethic and an insider view of public and self-employment and have learned that with few exceptions fully informed citizens respond to common sense and reason. As an attorney, I am adept at spotting legal issues, have extensive experience in mediating between adversaries to reach fair solutions, and my training and experience will assist in making appropriate inquiries to avoid legal entanglements and reviewing current policies and regulations.” What do you see as the top issue in this race?

“County budget: Eliminate waste, ensure transparency in accounting and publicly acknowledge those departments demonstrating fiscal responsibility. “Regulations and enforcement policies: Creating an inviting business environment by re-evaluating code enforcement policies, modifying or deleting burdensome regulations, fines and fees and appropriately limiting government intrusion into our homes and businesses.

“Keep local tax monies local. I will seek creative remedies to maintain local control of tax monies and remove our dependence upon grants.” What should be done to foster cooperative relationships between the county and the three municipal governments (Grass Valley, Nevada City and Truckee)? “Observe basic characteristics of human relations: Elected representatives must remember, it’s not about them, but about serving the best interests of the people. This would involve meeting regularly, listening, not making assumptions without hard facts, and not being dismissive of smaller governments, whose residents share dual citizenship.

Age: 67 Current city: Grass Valley Hometown: Grass Valley Occupation: District 2 Supervisor, County of Nevada Education: Sierra College Family: Wife, Carol; three kids, “little brother” Big Brothers/Big Sisters, 6 grandchildren, 1 great grandson Website: edscofield.com/

Why are you running for this seat in 2012? “For three years I’ve worked with my fellow Supervisors to work a conservative budget, maintain the majority of our reserves and preserve the core safety services of County government. I’d like very much to stay the course and be a part of the emerging stabilization of County finances and the benefits of a more effective County government. These have been difficult years, but the County is moving forward in a positive direction.” How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this position? “I’ve seen the successful resolution of a very difficult situation with the DarkHorse development. I’ve overseen the approval of the Higgins Marketplace project and a number of major road improvement projects for the South County. I’ve listened to many concerns of the constituents of South County and in many cases have helped resolve difficult issues. I know County government and I know the issues of our South County.” What do you see as the top issue in this race? “I have worked to see that County reserves are kept in place. I have helped formulate budgets that, while taking severe reductions, have maintained County core services. While I’ve been faced with many major issues during my term of office, the top issue has always been and will remain the protection of those services which are essential to the public’s

health and safety. County core services include law enforcement, jail, roads, and continued effort to leverage State or other sources of revenue for basic public and mental health services and other social programs.” As County Supervisor, how would you help spur economic growth in both eastern and western ends of the County? “I will continue to work closely with our Community Development Agency (Planning, Building, Environmental Health, Public Works, Fire, Waste Water Treatment) and partner with the Economic Resource Council, Regional Chambers of Commerce, Contractor and Realtor Associations, and other civic organizations to see that current businesses and new businesses feel welcomed and an integral part of Nevada County.” What should be done to foster cooperative relationships between the county and the three municipal governments (Grass Valley, Nevada City and Truckee)? “We are four government agencies whose jurisdictions occasionally overlap. It is natural to have competitiveness and occasional disagreements. We’re all also very protective of our individual districts and communities. However, each Supervisor sits on committees that are often represented by all three municipal bodies. In my case it’s Economic Resource Council and the Nevada County Transportation Commission. Generally speaking, there is a feeling that what is good for one body is good for all. Good communications and collaboration will strengthen our County as a whole.”

Publisher: Jeff Ackerman Editor: Brian Hamilton

As County Supervisor how would you help spur economic growth in both eastern and

“In addition, not hesitating to change one’s mind upon becoming convinced that of being wrong, but not changing just because others disagree. Keeping an open mind and encouraging the open exchange of thoughts and ideas. Refraining from stating an opinion too strongly at the beginning of discussions or immediately announcing one’s own plan, which often interferes with an open discussion.”

Special sections manager: Dana Cleasby Staff writers: Trina Kleist, Liz Kellar, Matthew Renda, Christopher Rosacker, Cory Fisher Account managers: Melissa Rhoden, Barbara Wibberley Page design: Julie Miller For up-to-date election coverage, visit: TheUnion.com/elections Printed with pride by The Union press crew The Union 464 Sutton Way, Grass Valley, CA 95945 (530) 273-9567 • theunion.com

The Union, Election 2012, May 18 & 20, 2012 3

Advertising Director: Julia Stidham “Jobs, economic development, and transparent reporting to the public. Ensuring the Board acts with ‘the consent of the governed.’ A public servant must have an open mind, not be dismissive of constituents’ concerns and creative ideas, and listen to the public as well as county staff.”

NEVADA COUNTY SUPERVISOR candidates Alfred “Al” Bulf Age: 68 Current city: Nevada City Hometown: Auburn Occupation: Strategic planner Education: University graduate Family: Married with adult children and grandchildren

Age: 57 Current city: Truckee Hometown: Oakland Occupation: Publisher Education: Postgraduate degree in city and regional planning Family: Mother lives in Grass Valley Website: www.voteforrichard.com.

Why are you running for this seat in 2012?

“I would like to help bridge the gap between constituents’ concerns and elected officials. There is a disconnection between citizens and our government at all levels. I shall be a responsive supervisor for this abundantly resourceful county. The Board of Supervisors is our conduit to higher levels of Government. Actively participating in numerous meetings at all levels throughout the state, I have already observed how our elected and appointed officials become less responsive and more arrogant, directly proportional to the height of their positions. If elected I shall be one to set an example of a return to public service.”

“I am running for District 5 Supervisor so that Truckee and our unincorporated neighbors will retain effective representation at the Nevada County Board of Supervisors. My goals are threefold: 1) protect the natural, historical, and scenic resources that form the foundation of our economy; 2) improve our lives through growth in employment opportunities and through the cost-effective provision of County services; and 3) ensure County government listens to the public and operates in a manner that is collaborative, transparent, ethical, and fair.”

How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat?

“I have worked in; and advocated for energy and transportation infrastructure efficiency. I completed a 39-year career at SMUD preceded by six years in the Navy from which I was honorably discharged as petty officer in marine engineering systems. I earned two university degrees; one urban planning and one Asian history. I closely follow current events in economics, environment, health, government, transportation, and military logistic issues; whether they be local or beyond. I put into perspective our local concerns in the context of the rest of the world, for the vitality of our immediate and long term best interests.”

“My more than seven years of service on Truckee’s Town Council has given me invaluable experience in working collaboratively and effectively to advance the public’s interests, in making the tradeoffs necessary to balance governmental budgets (and balance, too, the competing interests that are embodied within them), in trying to ensure that the concerns of all stakeholders are heard, and in making votes that might prove unpopular. I also have a background in land-use planning and real estate economics, and, having worked for a contractor and for a county, I understand both the importance of local government and its dysfunctions.”

What do you see as the top issue in this race?

“The top issue in this race is the kingpin to improving more aspects of life in this county than anything else. It will be an unequivocal 100 percent commitment to re-establishing the rail connection from Nevada City/Grass Valley to the transcontinental railway at Colfax. This will mitigate environmental concerns against re-opening the mines by freighting ore. At the same time, it will improve air quality in the Grass Valley and Nevada City area during the peak tourist season, allow our children to commute as far as UC Davis for higher education; and bring more tourists from the Bay Area.”

“Of highest priority is the continuing effect of the economic recession on business activity and job formation, which has depressed local employment opportunities in both the private and public sectors and has also caused the value of retirement investments to fall, jeopardizing the long-term financial security of many households. These problems in turn lead to stress as families and individuals try to cope with loss of income, loss of homes, and loss of dignity and confidence, and this stress increases demand for County-provided social services at a time when public revenue has yet to recover to pre-recession levels.”

As county supervisor how would you help spur economic growth in both eastern and western Nevada County?

As a County supervisor, how would I help spur economic growth in both eastern and western Nevada County?

“Following my primary issue, a new modernized non-high speed railway in the western county will benefit the economy of the eastern county in several ways. First of all, it will put our entire county in a command position for extending transportation service to Truckee as part of a larger well-established plan for a ‘Snow Train’ to Lake Tahoe, unrealized for years. This will increase tourism in the eastern county. Using the new railway for freight will integrate seamlessly with the existing rail yard in Truckee. Once this proves successful, additional connections in the eastern county will bring new business.”

“I would work with my colleagues to identify and address impediments to local business formation, retention, and expansion; realistically evaluate the county’s attributes that could attract businesses and entrepreneurs, then build upon our strengths (these vary between east county and west county); examine the experience of other jurisdictions for lessons we might apply; and develop a framework, like ‘Truckee Tomorrow,’ that brings governmental representatives and business people together to achieve mutual goals for improving business opportunity and success. That said, a fundamental approach to spurring economic growth is to implement programs and projects that enhance our quality of life.”

What should be done to foster cooperative relationships between the county and the three municipal governments (Grass Valley, Nevada City and Truckee)? 4 The Union, Election 2012, May 18 & 20, 2012

Richard Anderson

“I would encourage existing means of cooperation between municipalities to be used more effectively through state and federally funded agencies without reinventing the wheel. Breaking the ice with the first rail segment I am committed to build, commuters from Truckee will be able to connect to the county seat and Sierra College with one segment via existing bus service. However, establishing rider demand can overcome Union Pacific’s liability issues. Rail commuting and tourism could soon be possible across the entire County. Passengers will be able to focus on reading, writing, computer based activities, or simply relaxing while traveling between municipalities.”

What should be done to foster cooperative relationships between the county and the three municipalities? “Although steps have already been taken to foster cooperation between the county and the cities (examples include city-manager/mayor breakfasts and joint county/cities meetings that focus on issues of mutual concern), collaboration between electeds can always be improved. Perhaps the most useful steps would be for each council member and supervisor to try to understand the other’s perspective and to follow a ‘no surprises’ ethic that helps ensure we do not work at cross purposes to each other. A little humility can go a long way in establishing productive relationships and advancing the common interests of the public we serve.”

NEVADA COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE

NEVADA COUNTY SUPERVISOR candidates

candidates B. Scott Thomsen Age: 47 Current city: Nevada City Hometown: Raised in Massachusetts, New York Occupation: Superior Court Judge Education: Juris Doctorate from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law; Bachelor of Science Degree from Menlo College Family: Married with six children, all of whom are now adults.

Nate Beason Age: 68 Hometown: Nevada City Occupation: First District Supervisor Education: BA, MA UCSB; MA Stanford University Family: Married 46 years in August. Two daughters, two granddaughters. Website: natebeason.com

Why are you running for this seat in 2012?

“The dysfunction and economic uncertainty at the national and state levels has a profound impact on local government. This condition will continue for another 3-4 years. We need people in county government who possess the necessary experience to deal with impacts on our budget and who have had success in minimizing the impact of the overreaching state regulatory environment. I have helped navigate Nevada County through these various challenges and the results speak for themselves: strong financials, a prudent fiscal reserve, and a more efficient government. I have been effective also in minimizing the impact of state regulations on our county.”

“I am running unopposed in this upcoming election. I have served Nevada County as a Superior Court Judge since I was appointed in December 2010 by then-Gov. Schwarzenegger. Prior to my appointment, I served as the Court Commissioner for Nevada and Sierra counties since 2005. I enjoy my job. No two cases are factually identical. The work is challenging, analytical, mentally stimulating and rewarding. I look forward to continuing to serve our community, the people who come before the Court and our Court system. I appreciate your confidence and support in my continuing term in office.”

How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat?

“My successful and effective experience as a supervisor is my chief qualification. Nevada County has enjoyed financial stability, more efficient government and effective delivery of services during my tenure, in good times and challenging ones. I understand the state bureaucracy and have been an effective advocate in Sacramento for Nevada County and rural counties in general. I have proven that I don’t shy away from tough issues, and I shoot straight with my constituents. I have a reputation as a hard-working, no-nonsense supervisor who is available, who listens, and who makes decisions on the basis of the broader community’s interests.”

“After moving to Nevada County in 1989, I initially maintained a general law practice handling civil, probate, juvenile, family and criminal matters. In 1996, I became certified as a Family Law Specialist by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. Since the end of December 2011, I am the judge assigned to the Family Law Department in Nevada City, where I hear family law, adoptions, probate guardianship, domestic violence and dependency cases.

What do you see as the top issue in the race? “I think that’s a good question for my opponents. Nevada is a well-managed, financially stable county that continues to deliver core services just as we did in more prosperous times. That’s the result of prudent management and a willingness to make the tough decisions that have kept the county strong. It appears that this election comes down to a choice between my proven, effective leadership we will continue to need in the next 3-4 years, and less experienced people who haven’t really articulated what it is that they bring to the job that will be a better alternative.” As a County Supervisor, how would you help spur economic growth in both eastern and western Nevada County? “Local governments in California must operate within the federal and state tax structure and regulatory apparatus. We have neither the means nor the role of funding or subsidizing businesses, but we can try to create an environment in which business can prosper. We should continue to work through the ERC for business expansion, business start-ups, and where we can, business recruitment. Most important, a safe, reliable surface transportation system and other infrastructure improvements, such as available sewer connections, are where local governments really add value to the economy. We have had some success with business recruitment, but it has been difficult.”

“Communicate, communicate, communicate — at the staff level and the policy level. We will not always agree, but we can work to keep each other informed of our priorities and work in concert on those that are of mutual benefit. Relationships have ups and downs, but for the most part, they have been good among the four entities. When we keep each other informed, things have a tendency to work much better than they would otherwise.”

What do you see as the top issue in this race? “I do not see an overall “top issue.” From an administrative standpoint, I am greatly concerned about continued budgetary cuts faced by the Courts locally and statewide, as further cuts will inevitably negatively impact our ability to continue to offer the same level of services to the public and provide timely meaningful access to the Courts.” Do you think the court is doing enough to help prevent petty crime? “Generally, yes. Petty crime is a community-based problem, the solution for which does not rest solely with the courts. The term “petty crime” means different things to different people. For instance, it could mean violations of local ordinances as infractions or “petty theft” (for example, stealing a candy bar, a couple of shirts or bottle of alcohol) as a misdemeanor. The potential consequences and the Court’s ability to assist in meaningful change and to provide community preservation/supervision are greatly different in the above scenarios. “There is no probation, jail or other court based program of oversight available for infractions. The cause of petty crime is largely economic, substance abuse or mental health driven. The Court has implemented many alternative Courts that do provide necessary increased supervision (greater than is available by informal probation) to those willing to engage in these beneficial programs when such participation is an option in misdemeanor “petty crime” type matters.” Is alternative sentencing, such as drug court, effective in preventing (and/or reducing) recidivism? “Generally, yes.”

The Union, Election 2012, May 18 & 20, 2012 5

What should be done to foster cooperative relationships between the county and the three municipal governments?

“Since my appointment to the bench, I have continued to be a leader at the local and statewide level in legal education development by teaching continuing education classes to attorneys at local bar association functions, and to judges and commissioners at mandatory continuing education conferences and trainings in the areas of judicial ethics and family law. I also recently served as a member on the Elkins Task Force, which is largely credited with bringing about some of the greatest changes in Family Law in many years, to ensure litigants receive both substantive and procedural due process and are provided with meaningful access to the Court and its resources. ”

NEVADA COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE candidates Tom Anderson Robert L. Tamietti Age: 59 Current city: Truckee Hometown: Born in San Diego, I’ve lived in Truckee 22 years Occupation: Superior Court Judge Education: Juris Doctorate, University of Utah, 1985, Bachelor of Science, political science, University of Utah, 1982 Family: Divorced, with one son, a freshman in high school, and a yellow Lab “Lola”

Why are you running for this seat in 2012? “I have served Nevada County as a Superior Court Judge since November of 2003. In that time I have developed expertise in handling criminal, civil, juvenile, and family law matters. I want to continue serving the Truckee community as its assigned Superior Court Judge.” How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat? “I have strong ties to the Truckee community. I have resided in Truckee since before the formation of the town, and have experienced the population growth and the related difficulties experienced by our community. My strong civil law background before I was appointed to the bench, as well as the experience in criminal matters I developed in my seven years serving in Nevada City, fits well with the needs of the diverse Truckee Court calendar. “I have been recognized as a statewide leader on issues of crime victims’ rights, criminal treatment based sentencing, and drug treatment courts. I teach courses to other judges on those subjects at the annual Judicial College for new judges and at seminars for experienced judges statewide. “I was a lawyer in private practice for 18 years prior to my appointment to the bench. I ran a business, made payroll, and experienced the difficulties of being a small businessperson in our community. In my spare time, I am a volunteer umpire for the Truckee Little League, so I can take the pressure.” What do you see as the top issue in this race? “Maintaining a high level of service to our constituents as the state budget deteriorates and funding for the courts diminishes.”

6 The Union, Election 2012, May 18 & 20, 2012

Do you think the court is doing enough to help prevent petty crime? “Dealing with ‘petty crime’ is a cooperative effort between the citizens of the community, law enforcement officers, mental health providers, substance abuse treatment professionals, and the courts. Each must play a role in reducing crime at all levels. “So much of what people refer to as ‘petty crime’ is driven by either mental illness or substance abuse, or a combination of the two. More must be done to address each of those root causes. The courts, like law enforcement and the county, lack the resources to effectively address the root causes of much of the ‘petty criminal’ behavior we see in this county. “Spending precious tax resources to lock up mentally

ill people and substance-addicted people is the fiscal equivalent of swatting flies with an M1-A1 Abrams tank. It makes the problem disappear for a brief time, but at tremendous cost to the taxpayers. Getting people into treatment and supervising their progress is much more cost-effective, although certainly not a perfect solution.” Is alternative sentencing, such as drug court, effective in (reducing) recidivism? “In a word, absolutely. Nevada County’s Adult Drug Court is acknowledged as a model for the state in effective rehabilitation of hard-core drug offenders. Working with law enforcement and members of the community, the vast majority of our Drug Court graduates have obtained and held responsible employment, and become law abiding, taxpaying citizens; thereby saving the taxpayers millions of dollars that would otherwise have been spent housing them in state prison at $50,000 per year, prosecuting them for additional continued crimes that never happened, and supporting their spouses and children on public assistance that was made unnecessary. “The segment of our community that continues to grumble about the effectiveness of our Adult Drug Court simply refuses to accept reality as vindicated in a statewide study of our Drug Court that I presented before our Board of Supervisors in 2010. Sending people to prison for drug crimes makes a good soundbite from a ‘tough on crime’ political point of view, but sadly does almost nothing to reduce eventual drug-fueled crime. Breaking the cycle of addiction has proven much more effective in reducing criminal behavior in people addicted to meth, heroin and prescription drugs.

Age: 61 Current city: Nevada City Hometown: Meadville, Pa. Occupation: Superior Court Judge Education: BA, English, Kent State University; JD, Golden Gate University School of Law Family: Married to Eileen Blodgett-Anderson, mother, artist, teacher. Daughters: Eve Anderson (17), Dori Anderson (15). Website: www.judgetomanderson.com

Why are you running for this seat in 2012? “I am the Presiding Judge in Nevada County Superior Court. I understand the reality of life in Nevada County and how best to keep our community safe. I make decisions based on facts, merit and the law. I understand the importance of keeping bias and partisanship out of the courtroom. We have tough problems, but I’m proud of the work I’m doing. I’m proud of the success we’ve had working with less. I’m proud that my campaign is focusing only on issues and the facts.” How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat? “Twenty-nine years experience in the courtroom, first as an attorney, and for the past five years as judge, have instilled in me the importance of a judicial system standing firmly on the Constitution and the rights of all citizens. As Presiding Judge since 2010, I have a deep understanding of Nevada County’s courts. Our primary issues are reduced budgets and dramatic changes in sentencing laws. We have created solutions that effectively address these problems. My job is to confront these issues every day.” What do you see as the top issue in this race? “This election is about what works. Evidence-based, problem-solving approaches are effective. The revolving-door model of criminal justice is not. “An effective justice system makes us safer and it saves taxpayer money. That matters, because the state’s realignment law shifts the burden of imprisonment to the counties. At $50,000 a year, locking people up just to lock them up is a failed strategy we can’t afford. Adult Drug Court, in contrast, costs $12,000 a year and succeeds 80 percent of the time. This election isn’t about who’s going to get tough and make headlines, it’s about what works in the real world.” Do you think the court is doing enough to help prevent petty crime?

“Nevada County has led the way on these issues going back to the days of Sheriff Wayne Brown and Frank Gallino, through the tenures of Judges Dover and Darlington, and now carried on by the current bench. For decades, we in this county have looked for ways to address root causes of crime, with successes and some failures. But we have demonstrated the effectiveness of this approach, over and over again. “In my eight-plus years serving as your Superior Court Judge, I have sent defendants to prison for dealing drugs to school kids and for manufacturing drugs. Those sentences were appropriate, in my judgment, as to those offenders, and to send the message to others so inclined about what they could expect for similar behavior. But I am most proud of the clean, sober, taxpaying citizens who I helped graduate from our Adult Drug Court. We should continue to embrace this approach of removing the fuel from drug-fueled criminality, as a fiscally responsible and compassionate method of reducing criminal behavior in our community.”

“The petty crime issue — offenses like loitering, shoplifting, and drunk in public — is a quality of life issue for small towns like ours. Cases involving these crimes rarely make it to court. We’re working with local law enforcement to provide a mechanism to change this. We’re confident that once these cases reach court, our problem-solving approaches succeed in breaking people out of the cycle of repeat crime.” Is alternative sentencing, such as drug court, effective in preventing recidivism? “The facts speak for themselves. Prison costs $50,000 a year. Adult Drug Court costs $12,000. The statewide recidivism rate for drug offenses is about 80 percent. The success rate for Adult Drug Court is 80 percent. Do you as a taxpayer want to spend $12,000 for something that works or $50,000 for something that fails? We need our courts to operate on the basis of facts, law and reality.”

Diana & Joe Abrell * Courtney & John Abril * Jennifer Adams * Pamela Aldridge * Cathy & David Alkire * Gail Allinson * Dori Anderson * Michael P. Anderson * Teresa Anderson * Virginia Anderson * Marshall Apple * Thomas Appleby * David Arnold * Kerry Arnett * Rob Avery * Marilyn & Mike Baca * Julie Baker * Stephen C. Baker * Janice Bedayn * Shirley Benedick * Hilary Berardi * Todd Berardi * Judith Berliner * Maryann Berliner * Alison Bermant * Beth & Jerry Biagini * John Bilheimer * Jon Blinder * Eileen Blodgett * Jack Blodgett * Jerry Bloom * Christopher Bock * Gretchen Bond * Lisa Brenner * Peter C. Bronson * Luz Brown * Rosalie Brown * Robert Champagne * Vivian Christensen * Monte Christie * Barbara Cicerelli * Kent Clark * David Cohen * Cathy Colvin * Laurie Jo Colvin * Tommie Conlen * Dave & Dianna Connell * Richard Cooper * Jack Cramer * Carolyn Crane * Helen Crawford * Charles Crecelius * Willy Cunningham * Miranda Currie * Penelope Curtis * E. Christina Dabis * Margie Deter–Nevada County Bar Association –Tahoe Truckee Bar Association man-Rotberg * (Highest ranking. NCBA does not endorse candidates.) (Highest ranking. TTBA does not endorse candidates.) Robin S. Diamond * Shay Dillon * Bridget Dolan * Kathy Dotson * Bill Drake * Debbie & Kevin Dugan California Courts of Appeal Deputy Attorney General Mara Rick Osborn, Sacramento Po* Ken Duncan * Janice Hon. J. Anthony Kline, Presiding Justice Faust - Grass Valley Resident lice Department, retired - Grass Dunn * Tom Durkin * 1st District, 2nd Division Valley resident Shanti Emerson * Ben Emery * Amy Hon. Bill Newsom, Justice Rhiannon Grotke, Nevada Engel * Jan FishCalifornia Courts of Appeal, retired County Deputy Sheriff - Nevada David Alkire, retired Monterey Fleming * ler * Kelly Christopher City resident & Los Angeles County prose& Mary Folck * Every Nevada County Superior Court Judge, Cheryl cutor in private practice - Neva- Forbes * Helen Foster sitting and retired Jesse King, Nevada County da City resident * Jack Foster * John Foster * Hon. Candace Heidelberger * Hon. Sean Dowling Deputy Sheriff - Nevada City Stephanie Freydont Hon. Robert Tamietti * Hon. B. Scott Thomsen resident Ken Tribby, retired Nevada * Bryan Frost * Gary, Morgan Hon. Jane York-Punneo, ret. * Hon. R. Michael Smith, ret. County prosecutor in private & Sharee Frost * Hon. Carl Bryan, ret. * Hon. John Darlington, ret. Ken Duncan, Nevada County practice - Grass Valley resident Barbara & Bruce Fruesdell * Ron Hon. Al Dover, ret. * Hon. Ersel Edwards, ret. Deputy Sheriff, retired Nevada Fuchs * Shawn Hon. Frank Francis, ret. * Hon. Andy Holmer, ret. Garvey * Denis City resident John and Courtney Abril, US Geare * Matisse Park Rangers, retired - Penn Geenty * Jeff & Susan George Superior Court Judges from rural counties Lee Osborne, retired Nevada Valley residents * Joan Gilman * across Northern California: County Sheriff’s Captain and Bob Goar * Audrey Golden * Joyce Alpine * Amador * Glenn * Lassen * Mariposa Corrections Division ComJordan Fisher-Smith, State Gouveia * Hindi Modoc * Plumas * Shasta * Siskiyou * Sutter * Yuba mander - Grass Valley resident Park Ranger, retired - Nevada Greenberg * Stephen GreenCity resident berg * John Greenwood * Darlene Grenz * April Grimm * Paula Grogan-Onescu * Ernest Grossman * Ben Hagel * Jana Carrie Osborn, Sacramento Hajimihalis * Craig & Rosalie Hall * Randy Hansen * Molly Harrison * Rose Haughey * Otto Haueisen * Shaun County Deputy Sheriff, retired Havard * William Heidelberger * Sarah Hendrickson * John N. Hermann * Bruce & Sally Herring * Jonathan Hill * Michael Hill-Weld * Judi & Larry Hirtzel * Margaret Hobbs * Robert & Susan Hoek * Kenneth Holbrook * - Grass Valley resident Jim Hurley * Kiira Jefferson * Nancy Jensen * Rodger Jensen * Tim Jensen * Margaret Joehnck * Barbara Jones * Rebecca Jones * Bill & Joey Jordan * Marge Kaiser * Susan Kane * Paul Kawasaki * Morgan Kelly * Erika Kidera * Greg Klein * Julie Lang * Victor LaPuma * Margaret Lewicki * David Levin * Joshua Lichterman * Kurt & Nancy Lorenz * Sean Lusk * Dave Mann * Liz Mantle * Cindy Maple * Kayle Martin * Robyn Martin * Marc & Mona Matthias * Shelly McIntosh * Clarence H. McProud * Eva Melas * Joan Merriam * Lou Meyer * Trevor Michael * Carlyle Miller * Carol B. Miller * Lynda & Mark Miller * Stanton Miller * Erin Ruark Minett * Placer County Supervisor Jennifer Montgomery * Doug Morgan * Caitlin Morris * Mary & Steve Moyer * Stephen Munkelt * Max Norton * Michael Nudelman * Janice & Jim O’Brien * Stefanie Olivieri * Lee Osborne * Chris Owen * Vicki Parker * Connie & Gary Parsons * John Paul * Laurence Personeni * Warren Pfahl * Kris Phillips * Jennifer Porter * Alan Pomatto * Chris Postlewaite * Scott Purdy * Loren Raglin * Chuck Rei * Kurt Reinkens * Cheryl Rellstab * Matt Reynolds * Frank Ribeiro * Iden B. Rogers * David H. Ruholt * Don Ryberg * Alec Sarner * Kay & Steven Sauer * Parker Scanlon * Bill Schopfer * Jody Schutz * Sean Searle * Amos & Beverly Seghezzi * Roman Seghezzi * Reinette Senum * Karen Leigh Sharp * Joel Shawn * Bill Sheatsley * Stevie Sheatsley * Rob & Rose Shulman * Stephen Siegel * Elaine Sierra * David Silber * Linda Sloven * Sydney Smith * Susan A. Snider * Cathy & Malcolm Sowell * Ron and Rainey Spiller * Jim Starmer * Sheila Stein * Tim Stewart * Michael Straight * Michael Stone * John Stuart * Robert “Bobbie” Swanson * Bob & Cynthia Swarthout * Wendy Thibeault * Wendy Thompson * Butch & Virginia Thresh * Joan Toensing * Cheyenne Toney * Julia Toro * Harriet Ann Totten * Doug & Marina Tweed * Corrie Upham * Jerianne VanDijk * Peter Van Zant * Rich & Shirley Veale * Helena Velasquez * John Vodonick * Kara Vojak * Max Voorhess * Janis & Tim Voors * Phil Wagner * David & Martha Walters * Jim Weir * Elizabeth Welton * Jackie White * Nina Wiester * Amanda & Nick Wilcox * Angie Williamson * Carolyn Wilson * Jan Wilson * Sierra Winkler * Stu Wolfson * Dale & Robin Wood * Bob Wright * Gale Wright * Peggy Wright * Kathy Wronski * Tamara Zuromskis

Judge Tom Anderson’s supporters come from across our community, across the state and across the spectrum.

“Best Qualified.”

Judicial officers

“Best Qualified.”

Law enforcement & public safety

The Union, Election 2012, May 18 & 20, 2012 7

PAID FOR BY JUDGE TOM ANDERSON 2012, MICHELLE MARGULIES, TREASURER, 731 ZION STREET, NEVADA CITY, CA 95959

MY EXPERIENCE

I am a 25 year resident of Nevada County with experience in prosecuting and investigating such crimes as Major Narcotics, Domestic Violence, Child Pornography, Drug Endangered Children, and Political Corruption. I served as a Nevada County Deputy District Attorney from October 1990 through 1995, prosecuting many serious drug dealers in our community. I have been a respected prosecutor for over 26 years and have completed over 100 courtroom trials.

MY COURTROOM PHILOSOPHY

PROUD TO BE ENDORSED BY: Mike Ferguson - Nevada County District Attorney (retired) Crime Victims United of California California Narcotic Oﬃcers’ Association

Career Criminal Prosecutor Ensuring that Criminals are Held Accountable for Their Crimes A Voice for Victims’ Rights Protect Our Children & Our Community The Smyrnos Family George, Elena, Jenn and Chris. George and Elena have been married for 34 years and have 3 grandchildren

In my courtroom, I will carefully consider all evidence, arguments and motions to ensure trials and hearings are conducted in a fair and impartial setting that protects the rights of crime victims, the defendant, and the integrity of the judicial process. Our Nevada County community has the right to demand fairness and justice in its courtrooms, with sentencing that holds convicted criminals accountable for their crimes.

NEVADA COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE

candidates George Smyrnos Age: 58 Current city: Grass Valley, 25-year resident Hometown: San Carlos, Calif. Occupation: Deputy District Attorney, Sacramento County Education: B.S. San Jose State 1979, J.D., San Francisco Law School 1985. Family: Married 34 years to wife Elena, son Christopher (32), daughter Jennifer (27) Website: www.smyrnosforjudge.com

RESTORING TRUST IN ONE NEVADA COUNTY COURT ROOM

I am running for Judge to restore public trust in one particular Nevada County Courtroom now held by the incumbent. If elected, my background, experience, and courtroom philosophy will increase public confidence in that courtroom by returning to the standard of holding those convicted accountable for their crimes, and putting public safety and the trust of our community first.

Elect

GEORGE SMYRNOS

www.SmyrnosforJudge.com) george@smyrnosforjudge.com

for Superior Court Judge

Paid for by George Smyrnos for Superior Court 2012 • FPPC # 1345028 P.O. Box 636 Grass Valley, CA 95945 • (530) 268-5615

Why are you running for this seat in 2012? “To restore accountability for convicted criminals in the courtroom. I believe, based on my 26 years in the practice of criminal law, that when a person breaks the law, he must be held accountable for his actions. 2. To establish public safety as a top priority in dealing with criminal cases. 3. To ensure that crime victims have full access to court proceedings and are treated fairly and honorably in the courtroom, and 4. To remove advocacy from the bench as a factor in judicial proceedings.” How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat? “I became a Deputy District Attorney in Nevada County in 1990. Since coming to Sacramento County in 1996, I’ve handled general felony trials, domestic violence cases, child pornography cases, grand jury investigations including narcotics wiretaps and political corruption, and drug crimes which endanger children. For the past 20 years, I have lectured to fire and police officers on search warrants and Fourth Amendment and Miranda case law updates. Because the courtroom has been my professional venue for the past 26 years, I understand completely the processes, obstacles, and challenges of being in the courtroom, something many attorneys are unfamiliar with.” What do you see as the top issue in this race? “Holding offenders accountable for their crimes. Failure to do so impacts the safety and protection of the community, and is critically important now that the Criminal Justice Realignment Act is here. What many people don’t realize is that for over 500 felony crimes, including armed drug dealing, auto theft rings, identity theft, and other quality of life crimes, state prison commitments and parole supervision are things of the past, and if an offender is sentenced to the full term in county jail, he will serve only one-half of that term and will then be released into the community without any supervision.”

8 The Union, Election 2012, May 18 & 20, 2012

Do you think the court is doing enough to help prevent petty crime?

STAY INFORMED On the Upcoming 2012 Elections on theunion.com/elections

www.THEUNION.com Great People Connecting Communities

“No. Shoplifting, trespassing, vandalism and public drunkenness in the downtown areas should be vigorously addressed. Small business owners who are struggling with the poor economy cannot bear the costs of these additional burdens. Treating this criminal activity lightly sends the wrong message, and the results can be seen in decreased business activity to the detriment of the local economy and, ultimately, the financial well being of the cities. The best way to prevent petty crime is to impose sentencing decisions on convicted offenders which holds them accountable for their past conduct and deters them, and others, from committing similar acts of crime.” Is alternative sentencing, such as drug court, effective in preventing recidivism? “Drug court works best in preventing recidivism among drug users with a sincere desire to change their ways. For others, it is not so effective. Many continue to re-offend after drug court, and for some their addiction and criminal lifestyle is a lifelong struggle, harming themselves and the community. Drug-related crimes such as burglary and theft are common, and children who live with drug abusers often become entrenched in that lifestyle. These are the reasons why courts should consider continued drug abuse, following failed drug programs, to be serious offenses. Only then will the recidivism issue be effectively addressed.”

STATE ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 1 SEAT candidates Brian Dahle Age: 46 Party: Republican Current city: Bieber Hometown: Tule Lake Occupation: Farmer Education: High school Family: Wife, Megan, and two sons and a daughter. Website: briandahle.com

David Edwards Age: 63 Party: Green Current city: Grass Valley Hometown: Grass Valley Occupation: Water ecologist Education: MA Psychology, post-degree studies in water related subjects Family: Happily married with two adult children Website: www.davidedwardsforcalifornia1stassemblydistrict. com

Why are you running for Assembly District 1 seat in 2012?

“I love my country and this state. Twenty years from now, when my daughter and sons ask me what I did to make sure they had the same chance at success as I did, I will be able to say ‘I did everything I could possibly do within my power to make sure that my children had a bright future.’ We had a vision in Lassen County of being debt free and we accomplished that goal. Leadership is about making hard choices and getting people to understand the difference between what they want and what they need.”

“Our present government is presently occupied, owned and controlled by big money and corporate interests. I’m an oxygen-breathing person who will represent our constituency. The only manner in which we can achieve a government that represents oxygen-breathing people is for us to become candidates and get elected.”

How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat?

“I believe that if we picked our governmental leaders out of the phone book we would have much better leaders, we couldn’t do any worse. I have:

“My 16 years as a county supervisor; past president, Western Interstate Region (National Association of Counties, NACO); chair, Energy Environment Land Use Committee (NACO); chair, California Housing & Finance Corporation; chair, National Housing & Finance Corporation; past chair and current board member, Regional Council of Rural Counties; make me the candidate with the most experience in both state and federal issues. Counties are the link between state services and the people, my years implementing those programs mandated by the state give me a unique perspective on how state government functions.” What do you see as the biggest issue in this Assembly District 1 race? “We are saddled with an out-of-control state budget, a bloated bureaucracy and one of the largest tax burdens in the nation. The bond debt alone for each citizen of California is $13,000 dollars. We need to promote a balanced budget — with no smoke and mirrors, no fuzzy math. Reduce the size of state government — remove duplicate bureaucracies and redundant departments. Remove state regulations that stifle economic freedom. California businesses, farms and landowners are shackled with regulations. Removing these will place our businesses on equal footing with the rest of the world, allowing private business and our citizens to prosper.” What is your position on the two ballot measures on the same ticket as your race? “No, on both 28 and 29. “Prop 29: We do not need any new taxes. We need to learn how to live within our means. To tax the poorest in our community is no a way to fund programs. We need realistic budgets that reflect the money we have now, not what we think we might have. No on Prop 29. “Prop 28: This proposition does not solve the problems it is trying to address. I will vote no on Prop 28.” If elected, what can you do as an Assemblyman to help Nevada County’s economy?

— More than 40 years in water-related business and policy — 20 years as the owner of a general engineering, building and electrical contracting company doing mostly water related public works jobs — General manager of a special district providing water, sewerage, streets, lights and open space — More than 20 years public service boards, Rotary, and California Special Districts Association — Raised two children — one is going to graduate school, the other is a military officer.” What do you see as the biggest issue in this Assembly District 1 race? “Employment, people need meaningful work to feel safe in their homes. To create meaningful employment we need to fix our environment, provide public transportation, fix our education system, intelligently manage our forests, create local energy and energy systems, do energy upgrades for our homes and businesses. As long as we can blow off $5 trillion on killing people outside of the U.S. and more than $10 trillion on bankers, lenders and the 1 percent, we can afford to have the meaningful employment I have outlined.” What is your position on the two measures on the same ballot as your race? “Proposition 28 is another term-limit amendment. I’m basically against term limits. Running a government is a professional job. We need as many good, experienced, honest professionals who are responsive to their constituencies as we can get. I believe term limits supports the 1 percent buying the candidates they want as they can offer money and jobs after their term expires. We have an election system and our voting public needs to educate themselves and do their job and elect people to represent them, not the person with most money and the biggest billboard with the American flag on the highway. It is not possible to create a system that screens for ability and honesty. That is the job of the public.” “Proposition 29 is a sin tax. I know that smoking costs everybody millions of dollars per year. I think this type of taxation is problematic. I generally oppose someone telling me how I may abuse my body, even though the costs of that abuse are often paid by the public in general. It will be very interesting how the big money lines up supporting or opposing this initiative. I will probably make my decision based on who pays how much to support or oppose this measure. So, I’m neither supporting nor opposing the measure at this time.” If elected, what can you do as an Assemblyman to help Nevada County’s economy? “I believe we have some very severe times ahead. I will work to make all the counties in the 1st District as energy independent and self sufficient as possible. I will support local food production and protect small farmers, create usable public transportation, repair the damage we have done to our ecosystems and fix our public education.”

The Union, Election 2012, May 18 & 20, 2012 9

“I will fight to protect our water rights, reduce regulations, and, use my 16 years experience as a county supervisor to bring the issues that are important to Nevada County to every debate in Sacramento. One of the most important things I will do is to hire staff that is dedicated to doing the people’s work and that understands the complex issues that we face. I will have regular office hours and I will never forget that I represent the entire district. Whatever issues Nevada County faces I will be there, fighting for the issues that matter to the county.”

How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat?

STATE ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 1 SEAT candidates Charley Hooper Age: 51 Party: Libertarian Current city: Grass Valley Hometown: Santa Clara, Calif. Occupation: President of a small consulting company, Objective Insights. Visiting fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University. Chairman of the Charter Council at Bitney College Prep High School. Education: Master of Science, Management Science Engineering, Stanford University, 1989. Bachelor of Science, Computer Science Engineering, Santa Clara University, 1983. Family: Wife of 22 years: Lisa Hooper. Older son, Russ Hooper, 20, sophomore at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, studying biomedical engineering. Younger son, Mitch Hooper, 16, freshman at Bitney College Prep High School in Grass Valley. Website: hooper2012.com

Age: 59 Party: Democratic Current city: Taylorsville, Calif. Hometown: Born in Norfolk, Va., raised in SF Bay Area Occupation: Plumas County supervisor (20 years)/Business owner (22 years) Education: CSU, Chico, pre-law /political science; paralegal certification Family: Wife, Carol; son, Ryan (28), daughter Robin (25), son Arlan (21) Website: www.robertmeacher.com

Why are you running for Assembly District 1 seat in 2012?

“I’m running for one simple reason: Sacramento needs some adult supervision. “The 50-state governments were ranked from best to worst. The best-run state was Wyoming. The worst-run state was California. This is unacceptable. If elected, I will help move California back to the top of that list. I want to return some luster to the golden state.

“By comparison, I am the most-qualified candidate in this race. The time has come to send a rural Democrat to Sacramento in order to reverse the damage done to us due to partisan positioning. Our water rights, county fairs, public protection, and quality of life are all suffering as a result. I can fix the problems we face because I can, and will, negotiate across the aisle.”

“California’s budget deficits are the result of spending too much, not taxing too little. I will get the economy moving again by cutting regulations, spending, and taxes.

How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat?

“I also see the huge potential for improving education in California.”

“I have been a county supervisor for 20 years. I was a United States Merchant Marine for 13 years. I have struggled with a family-owned business for 22 years.”

How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat? “I’m no dummy. I have two engineering degrees and I worked at NASA for seven years. I co-founded a consulting firm where I am president. I’ll use my engineering and consulting skills to help solve difficult state problems. I’ve been involved in education for years and I know how to improve our educational system, primarily by increasing choice, flexibility, and accountability, while still cutting costs.

“Simply put: the economy. Employment opportunities for the working men and women of the district run hand-in-hand with economic growth.”

“With a noted economist, I co-authored a book, Making Great Decisions in Business and Life. It’s about time California started making some great decisions.”

What is your position on the two ballot measures on the same ticket as your race?

What do you see as the biggest issue in this Assembly District 1 race?

“Proposition 28: Favor. We have seen a continuous rotation of elected officials at the state level under the existing term limits. This clarifies the term(s) as a combined total of 12 years.

“The biggest issue in this race is the economy, and that means both jobs and a vibrant business environment. Much of what the government does hurts the economy. That includes bailouts, a vast bureaucracy, deficits, government waste, oppressive regulation, investments in politically connected companies like Solyndra, high taxes and fees, underfunded public employees retirement funds, minimum wage laws that keep our teenagers unemployed, and the expensive and futile war on drugs that fills our prisons with non-violent offenders. “With 12 percent of America’s population, California has one third of the nation’s welfare recipients. That’s crazy.” What is your position on the two ballot measures on the same ticket as your race? “Proposition 28: Change in Term Limits. While I support term limits, Prop. 28 is a scam to weaken term limits. That’s a step in the wrong direction. “Proposition 29: Tobacco Tax for Cancer Research Act. While I do not encourage tobacco smoking and I have personally helped some cancer drugs reach the market, I do not support Prop. 29. First, taxes in California are too high. Second, I don’t support this kind of cherry-picking. If we want to fund cancer research, then the state government should spend less money on something else.” 10 The Union, Election 2012, May 18 & 20, 2012

Robert Meacher

If elected, what can you do as an Assemblyman to help Nevada County’s economy? “If you want to know why the economy is bad, look no further than the government. Many of the government’s actions hurt the economy. Take regulation. Of course there are some good regulations. However, regulation costs California businesses $493 billion annually. That’s about $13,000 per person per year, or $52,000 for a family of four. “If we didn’t have to contend with this regulation, every family of four in Nevada County could buy two new cars a year. “Big corporations and big unions already have their lobbyists and politicians. I will fight for the little guy — you.”

What do you see as the biggest issue in this Assembly District 1 race?

“Proposition 29: Favor. I am not in favor of ‘nanny’ laws, this proposition continues the funding of cancer research related to smoking of tobacco.” If elected, what can you do as an Assemblyman to help Nevada County’s economy? “Most of the 1st Assembly District is made up of small family owned or operated businesses. As a business owner myself, I have suffered under the ever-increasing burden of taxes, fees, permits, and regulations for 22 years. We need relief. Having the experience, I can, and I will bring this sorely needed relief to our rural communities. I know exactly what needs to be done. That will go along way towards creating a job market in a business friendly environment.”

STATE ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 1 SEAT

STATE SENATE SEAT

candidates

candidates “Bo” Bogdan I. Ambrozewicz

Rick Bosetti Age: 58 Party: Republican Current city: Redding Hometown: Anderson Occupation: Businessman/ City Councilman Education: Some College Family: Patti (wife), daughter Alyscia (33), daughter Ryann (31), son Damon (28), and daughter Mia (26) Website: www.rickbosetti.com

Age: 58 Party: Independent Home: Greenwood, Calif. Occupation: Building Designer, Consultant, Builder. Life Coach. Author. Self employed 35 years. Education: Studied business Website: www.boambroz.com

Why are you running?

Julie Griffith-Flatter

“I’m fed with the good old boy politicians Republicans and Democrats, lying to us every election cycle. Their broken promises and special interest lobbyists buying our politicians and their votes. As an Independent, I can work with both sides to bring back the American dream and make California prosperous and bring back jobs, balance the budget by reducing fees, regulations and taxes. Also, Ted Gaines is a career politician and is in it for himself. He created two jobs. One for him and one for his wife. It cost the taxpayers about $1 million in special election fees.

Age: 52 Party: Democratic Current city: Nevada City Hometown: Nevada City Occupation: Land Use Planner Education: BS, Environmental Planning and Management, UC Davis Family: Husband and daughter Website: www.facebook.com/JulieGriffithFlatter

How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat?

Why are you running for this seat in 2012?

“I have always been a catalyst. My support is statewide from many different industries and businesses. I have been involved in over 20 different community boards and services. I have been a planning commissioner as well as a city councilman. Please refer to my supporters and contributors lists on my website to see the diversity.”

“My background in private sector business of over 30 years of working with start-up businesses, designing custom homes in which I dealt with the bloated government bureaucracies. I always had to work with budgets and bring people together to get projects done on time. I also had a general store in Placer County for nine years and have done many joint ventures with my family. I teach heathy lifestyles and wrote a book for people to be able to reach their full potential in life by using the techniques that I have developed.”

Why are you running for Assembly District 1 seat in 2012? “To try an bring the same common-sense approach to government that I have brought to the City of Redding. We have reformed both our pension plan and our retirement health-care plan. We have received $7 million dollars of concessions from the Unions and $27 million of deferred liability savings in our retirement health-care plan.”

What do you see as the biggest issue in this Assembly District 1 race? “In the district and the state, it is getting control of our spending. Specifically in the district, we have personal property rights, water rights and rural health-care issues that are paramount to being solved. Foremost is creating jobs and we have done that in Redding.” What is your position on the two ballot measures on the same ticket as your race? “I am against any measure that will raise our taxes and burden the people further. We do not have a money problem. Our problem is the priorities that we are spending our money on.”

“Bring some of the same common-sense suggestions that have worked for us in Redding. We have reduced new construction fees by 30 percent here on January 1. Since then, we have had $16 to $20 million in new home construction. Putting hundreds of people back to work. Refer to answer No. 1 for pension and health-care reform for the public employees unions.”

“Bring jobs to California by streamlining regulation, fees and taxes. Giving business incentives to do business here. Nobody wants to do business here anymore. Balance the budget by making cuts across the board and putting state agencies out to bid to the private sector to stop the waste.” How would you represent the rural interests of your district at the state level? “I have always lived in rural areas of Placer and El Dorado counties, so I understand what we need to create jobs. We should not send our water down south and preserve our way of life. Responsible growth without destroying our environment.” Is there a way to resuscitate the industries of mining, timber, ranching and agriculture while balancing the overarching health of the environment? How would you strike a balance? “We should be able to have responsible mining, timber, ranching and agriculture. Through well thought out planning all these industries can work together without exploiting our way of life. As an Independent, I will work with everyone to resolve the issues of our state. No one person or party has all the answers. We are all Californians and have stake to live within our means. We have plenty of revenue, it’s just mismanaged.”

How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat? “Working on various issues in the Sierra region from the land-use planning perspective and within local/ state government has presented me with a broad spectrum of different experiences and individual beliefs that I feel provide me with a strong base to represent this district.” What do you see as the top issue in this race? “Working to improve people’s quality of life.” How would you represent the rural interests of your district at the state level? “I strongly believe the state of California must recognize and invest in the areas that provide water and other resources to the state. I will work toward gaining that recognition and finding the funding resources.” Is there a way to resuscitate the industries of mining, timber, ranching and agriculture while balancing the overarching health of the environment? How would you strike a balance? “I believe there is a way to find a balance between the resource industries and the health of the environment, which together equate to the health our communities. Careful examination of existing policies for potential changes is needed and the California Environmental Quality Act is an important channel to finding a balance.”

The Union, Election 2012, May 18 & 20, 2012 11

If elected, what can you do as an Assemblyman to help Nevada County’s economy?

What do you see as the top issue in this race?

“I will provide a strong voice in the Capitol for the interests of District 1.”

STATE SENATE SEAT

U.S. CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 1

candidates

Ted Gaines Age: 54 Party: Republican Current city: Rocklin, Calif. Hometown: Roseville, Calif. (birth place) Occupation: Insurance Business Owner Education: Lewis and Clark College Family: Married to wife Beth with 6 children Website: www.tedgaines.com/

Why are you running for this seat in 2012? “My family has called California home since the Gold Rush. I love California and want my six children to have the same opportunities I had to build a wonderful life and career in this state. Right now, that is not the case. But as long as I have the honor to serve the people of the 1st Senate District, I will fight to give my children and everyone in the state the best possible chance to succeed. I want to make sure that if you work hard and play by the rules, government will not be a barrier to your prosperity.” How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat? “I’m a small business owner who has worked in my family business for 30 years and have had to deal firsthand with the excessive regulations, endlessly changing rules and punishing taxes that make this the toughest state to do business. It is what inspired me to enter politics in the first place and I have spent my time in Sacramento trying to get government out of the way of the hard working families and small businesses owners who are the foundation of this economy.” What do you see as the top issue in this race? “Job creation is hands down the critical issue in this state. We have nearly 11-percent unemployment statewide — higher in some of the northern counties — and that is an embarrassment for the state that has been the country’s economic leader for so long. We need lower taxes and simpler, smarter regulations to give entrepreneurs the right incentives to invest and hire in California. And we need to end the environmental insanity that has put the incredible natural resources of this state off limits to economic activity. Our water, our land and our timber should be engines for economic growth.” How would you represent the rural interests of your district at the state level?

12 The Union, Election 2012, May 18 & 20, 2012

“Rural California is a different world from the LAs and San Franciscos of the state in every way. From the values to the way people make their livings to how they look at the 2nd Amendment … the list could go on. I am always looking to make sure that the big urban areas aren’t bullying the northern counties of our state. That means protecting our water rights, fighting for access to our natural resources so we can mine, log and farm, and more. I have built the relationships I need at the Capitol to be a strong advocate for rural California.” Is there a way to resuscitate the industries of mining, timber, ranching and agriculture while balancing the overarching health of the environment? How would you strike a balance? “California is in economic crisis. We can’t put owls ahead of people any longer. We have the thousands of acres of prime farmland sitting fallow because we can’t use our water. We have thousands of suction dredge miners who were kicked out of the rivers last year. We have empty mills sitting in some of the richest forests in the world. To me, that is not anything close to balance — that is environmentalism gone wild. I want clean air and clean water, but I want to see job creation in our region before I have a discussion about balance.”

Gary Allen Oxley Age: 51 Party: Republican Current city: Redding Hometown: Born in Sacramento. Grew up in Lincoln, Placer county. Graduate of Lincoln High School. Occupation: 18 years in nursing, including emergency room, ICU, open heart recovery, home health, director of nursing services at the local and corporate regional level. Education: BS in nursing from CSU, Chico. Recipient of the Outstanding Contribution to the University Award, 1994. Medic in the U.S. Army Reserves and recipient of the Army Commendation Award. Family: Sons, Joshua, Kevin and Clayton; granddaughter, Gianna. Website: oxleyforcongress.org

Why are you running for this seat? “The priority of your government must be the success of America and the American citizen above all. Americans struggle to stay employed, put food on the table and gas in the car, while taxes and fees intensify the family struggle. U.S. corporations are thriving and pay less taxes than most Americans or none at all. “The government provides 22 percent of the United Nations budget, 12 percent of the World Trade Organization budget and, in 2010, gave the International Monetary Fund $100 billion. “As your representative in Congress, my priority will be you and our country, above all.” How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat? “I have been successful as a leader in the health care profession, which requires tenacity to succeed, critical thinking skills to make the right decisions, working in extremely stressful situations, having the courage to stand up and say no when necessary, focusing on priorities, emphasis on quality education, leading others by example and teamwork, having the vision to succeed and the belief that nothing is impossible. “As your congressman, you can expect me to use these skills to lead the way in building a successful America where our citizens have the chance to succeed.” What do you see as the top domestic issue in this race, and how would you address it? “The real issue facing America is that our leaders do not have us or our nation as their top priority. These men and women were successful in business and law prior to being elected, and now they are unsuccessful in running our country. How is that possible? “Your goal must drive everything you do to succeed. Just look at how successful our U.S. corporations are doing and how well Congress has helped them succeed by creating laws that promote their continued profits.” How do you balance the budget without stalling what appears to be a fragile economic recovery or slashing important social programs such as Medicare? Is it possible? “The first step is to stop paying contributions to such international organizations such as the United Nations, World Trade Organization, International Monetary Fund and other countries around the world. “The second step is to stop the tax loopholes for corporations that result in them paying no taxes at all. “Congress and the President have the power to fix our financial problems, but no backbone or interest in doing so; otherwise, the problem would be fixed. It will take all of America to solve our financial situation, not just the people.” What do you see as the top international issue facing the nation and how would you address it? “This is a very complicated question with complicated answers that will require a great deal of thought and prayer by those whom we have elected to lead our nation. “We must have the best interest of the United States of America and our Constitution at the heart of these discussions, and not other countries or international organizations. We cannot save the world if we do not take care of ourselves first. “Historically, we have done a great job helping others, but now, we must take care of us to protect our national sovereignty.”

U.S. CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 1 candidates Doug LaMalfa

Jim Reed

Age: 51 Party: Republican Current city: Richvale, Calif. Hometown: Richvale, Calif. Occupation: Family farmer/State senator Education: Graduated Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a bachelor’s degree in Ag/Business Family: Married with 4 children Website: www.DougLaMalfa.com

Age: 60 Party: Democratic Current city: Fall River Mills, Calif. Occupation: Attorney Education: BS, electrical engineering, University of California, Berkeley 1972; JD, San Francisco Law School, 1976; MS, taxation, Golden Gate University, 1987 Family: Wife, Carol Veres Reed, attorney; 2 children, Dustin and Brooke Website: www.reednow.com

Why are you running for this seat?

Why are you running for this seat in 2012?

“Northern California needs a fighter in Washington. The stakes are too high and the issues too important to have a representative who is not connected to the people and active on their behalf. We need someone who does more than just vote right; we need a representative who will battle bureaucrats and regulators every day.

“I want to bring fairness back to the Internal Revenue Code and, at the same time, simplify it. I believe 2013 will be the year major changes will occur with respect to taxation and how the federal government raises revenue; I want to be there to be part of that process.

“That is why I decided to run. On my farm, I found myself spending more time dealing with overbearing government than producing and that affects all areas of our lives. I decided to step up and work for the people to help push back.”

“I want to make sure Social Security and Medicare are saved. I also want to help restore the middle of the political spectrum in Congress, which has been quickly disappearing in recent years.”

How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat?

“I genuinely enjoy serving and working with the people of the district. I have a strong work ethic and spend long hours fighting on behalf of the citizens of Northern California. Citizens should not have to travel to the Capitol to see their representatives and I do my best to meet with people in the community. “As a family farmer I know what it means to produce a product and deal with the regulations and mandates placed on us by the government. No one will be a more passionate fighter on behalf of the citizens of Northern California.” What do you see as the top domestic issue in this race, and how would you address it?

“I am a tax attorney who understands the complexities of the Internal Revenue Code and realizes its unfairness in shifting the tax burden down to the middle class over the last 20 years. “I am a moderate and am disappointed with the extreme polarization of the political parties and accelerating disappearance of representatives who can find compromise solutions. My legal experience in settling disputes should be helpful in getting things done in Washington.”

“Spending, with a $16 trillion deficit and the federal government operating without a budget for the last three years it has to be. Currently, America borrows 43 cents of every dollar we spend, much of it from countries hostile to our freedom. We must bring our government back to its constitutionally limited role.

What do you see as the top domestic issue in this race, and how would you address it?

“I support scaling back our federal government and returning power and money to the local level. We must make across the board cuts and remove the waste and fraud in bureaucracies and contracting. The recent GSA scandal is a prime example of wasting taxpayers’ dollars.”

“Taxes: I would equalize the tax rates on people earning more than $250,000 through dividends and capital gains (15 percent) with the rates of working men and women (25 percent for single taxpayers on income over $34,500).

How do you balance the budget without stalling what appears to be a fragile economic recovery or slashing important social programs such as Medicare? Is it possible?

“I would also remove the cap ($110,000) on the payroll tax to more adequately fund Social Security and Medicare.”

“First we look at waste and redundancy and bureaucratic agencies that prevent people from growing their businesses through over regulation and uncertainty. Congress must change the tax code to promote investment in America and unleash the private sector to grow.

How do you balance the budget without stalling what appears to be a fragile economic recovery or slashing important social programs such as Medicare? Is it possible?

“Next, we must repeal Obamacare. It is not only unconstitutional but will lead to bankruptcy. In the past year its expected costs have doubled and is directly stealing half a trillion from MediCare to offset those spiraling costs.

“The budget must become balanced over the next few years. The tax revenue I discuss above will help, but there must be major cuts in most federal departments, especially defense.

“Finally, across the board spending cuts. There are plenty of things the government should not be doing — let’s stop doing them.”

“Medicare must be saved.”

What do you see as the top international issue facing the nation, and how would you address it?

What do you see as the top international issue facing the nation, and how would you address it? “Our national security is the most important. We must try and stop North Korea and Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons through diplomacy and international economic pressure.

“What happens to American interests and gas prices when a nuclear-armed Iran threatens to close the Straights of Hormuz (a key oil shipping area) or attempts to gain more oil rich land? Think of the effect that would have on our already economy choking energy costs.

“However, no military action should be taken without Congressional approval.

“We must tighten international sanctions and place a preverbal line in the sand that we will not allow them to cross.”

“A close second in international issues is the development of international trade, with adjustments in trade agreements for unfair competition from countries with lower labor and environmental standards.”

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“The nuclear ambition of Iran and the destabilizing affect of their increasing military strength. Americans must be firm in our resolve that Iran cannot be allowed to gain nuclear weapons or technology.

U.S. CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 1 candidates Gregory Cheadle

Pete Stiglich

Age: 55 Party: Republican Current city: Redding Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio Occupation: Real estate broker, luxury playhouse builder Education: GED, BA, MPA, JD Family: 3 beautiful children Website: www.cheadleforcongress.com

Age: 58 Party: Republican Current city: Cottonwood Hometown: Los Angeles Occupation: Teacher and U.S. Air Force (retired) Education: BS education and MS management and human resources Family: Single Website: www.colonelpete.com

Why are you running for this office?

“Fifty years ago, Kennedy said ‘Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.’ I can do a lot for my country with the talents and education entrusted to me coupled with my life/work experience.

“I’m running because I’m fed up. I’m fed up with Democrats who want the federal government to intrude into every facet of our lives, and fed up with “squishy” Republicans who want to go 50/50 on deals that are 100 percent wrong for America.

The majority of candidates for this congressional seat decided to run after Mr. Herger announced his retirement earlier this year. I have been running since May 2011 because I am fed-up with political games, establishment politics, burdensome taxation, excessive regulation, high fuel prices, high unemployment, and bailouts. Someone has to do something, that someone is me!”

“Make no mistake about it, we are in the midst of a culture war and have few options. We can either fight for our cherished values and freedoms or compromise to the point America is no longer recognizable as we once knew her.

How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat?

14 The Union, Election 2012, May 18 & 20, 2012

“Born and raised in the inner-city, I did not have the proverbial ‘silver spoon’ in my mouth. I had to pull myself up by my ‘bootstraps.’ I am a small businessman, so I know what it is like to run a business and work hard. I am the only candidate with a graduate degree in health-care administration and a doctor of jurisprudence. As such, I am the best candidate to tackle Obama Care. Having volunteered 10 years in the local hospital ER, I know suffering and sadness. In summary, I can relate to the poor, middle-class, and rich.”

“As for me, I choose to fight.”

“My 26 years as an officer in the U.S. Air Force provided unique opportunities for leadership, federallevel experience and knowledge of national security. In this capacity, Americans trusted me with the lives of their sons and daughters in America’s military … and this I did proudly. “Americans trusted me as a leader and soldier to protect and defend this great country from all enemies, foreign and domestic … and this I did proudly. “Americans trusted me with custody of the nation’s nuclear arsenal … and this I did proudly. “Americans trusted me to uphold the Constitution … and this I did proudly.”

What do you see as the top domestic issue in this race, and how would you address it?

“The top domestic issue is the economy. Not only must we encourage job growth and creation here, we must make working attractive by decreasing the tax burden on individuals and the employers who hire them. Additionally, we must examine the risk regulations pose to business and the benefits, if any.

“We must take aggressive and immediate action to reduce our ever-growing debt by cutting spending, cutting government bureaucracy and creating an environment that encourages saving, investment and job creation. Failure to do otherwise will place the future of our country and her standing in the world in great jeopardy.

“To keep the economy strong, we must 1) address the rising cost of fuel; 2) reinstitute the Glass-Steagall act; 3) repeal Dodd Frank; and 4) gain control of our currency via monetary policies that increase the value of our currency rather than dilute it.”

“I favor serious and real cuts throughout the entire federal budget. The $17 trillion national debt facing our country does not reflect the lack of tax revenue. Instead, it is the result of insane, out-ofcontrol spending at the federal level.”

How do you balance the budget without stalling what appears to be a fragile economic recovery or slashing important social programs such as Medicare? Is it possible?

“The budget can be balanced by: 1) a complete audit of the federal government to determine where every cent is spent; 2) decreasing the funding of the various departments of the government (many have budgets that have ballooned in recent years); 3) eliminate the excesses as shown by the audit; 4) eliminate the department of education; 5) overhaul and streamline what the various departments do so that there will be greater efficiency and effectiveness; 6) clamp down of welfare fraud; 7) with respect to Medicare, encourage a healthy lifestyle and prevention of disease.” What do you see as the top international issue facing the nation, and how would you address it? “The top international issue facing the nation is dependence on foreign energy. By purchasing oil from the Middle East, we are fueling our demise (no pun intended)! “Like it or not, we must strive for energy independence so that we can bring more certainty to the business environment and enhance our national security by defunding those countries that despise us. Consequently, I would stress purchasing oil from Canada and building the Keystone pipeline.”

“Our elected leaders in Washington must set aside political, personal and special interest agendas and pursue a strategy that begins with ‘Putting America First.’ A debt war must be waged on a series of fronts. “First and foremost, politicians must stop the insane spending. I favor serious and real cuts across the entire federal budget. A war on waste and fraud must also be waged. “Simultaneously, government should help create an environment where businesses can flourish, creating long-term job opportunities, personal wealth and employment opportunities for future generations, along with a reliable stream of revenue required to fund constitutionally appropriate services.” What do you see as the top international issue facing the nation, and how would you address it? “The threat of international terrorism is the top issue threatening our nation today. It is critical international terrorists and terrorist nations such as Iran and North Korea are not permitted to acquire a nuclear capability or nuclear explosive device. Every possible option to achieve this strategic goal should be on the table, to include severe economic and financial restrictions and military action. “Additionally, every effort to achieve American energy independence should be pursued to reduce U.S. reliance on foreign sources and cut off the funding pipeline to unfriendly nations only intent on our demise as a world power.”

U.S. CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 1 candidates Sam Aanestad Age: 65 Current city: Penn Valley Party: Republican Occupation: Oral and maxillofacial surgeon Education: BA and doctor of dental Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles; master’s degree in public administration, Golden Gate University Family: Wife, Susan, 3 children Website: www.SamAanestad.com

Nathan Arrowsmith Age: 55 Party: Democratic Current city: Red Bluff Education: BA in communications, California State University, Chico Family: Married

Why are you running for office?

Why are you running for this office?

“To restore freedom to the American people. Congress gave President Obama police power over the entire United States when he signed the National Defense Authorization Act on Jan. 3. He later instituted the executive order for the National Defense Preparedness Act, allowing him to control every aspect of our economy and nation.”

“I’m running for Congress to stop runaway spending and to protect American taxpayers. That means no more debt, no more borrowing and no more bailouts at the expense of taxpayers.”

How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate? “In 1984, I served as a liaison to Congressman Chappie. I later served in the U.S. Navy from 1985 to 1991. I met numerous congressmen on the Armed Services Committee.

How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat? “Throughout my 12 years as an assemblyman and California senator, I focused on cutting government spending, opposing higher taxes and preserving property and water rights. During my tenure, I received 100 percent ratings from the California Taxpayers Association, National Tax Limitation Committee, California Farm Bureau Federation and the National Federation of Independent Business. “I’m an American conservative, and I make no bones about it. I will vote for a conservative, efficient and constitutionally limited government, and a vibrant free-market system.”

“I ran for Congress in 1994 and again in 1998. I am no stranger to congressional politics in Northern California.”

What do you see as the top domestic issue in this race, and how would you address it?

“We need to stop out-of-control government spending now. Congress has spent America into a $16 trillion dollar debt, an amount equal to $49,000 for every single American, including your children.

“The issue of water storage, distribution and property rights associated with water and its conservation are the three main concerns for this district and state of California.”

“I will fight to squeeze every program and every department (such as eliminating the entire Department of Education) for immediate and substantial spending cuts.

How do you balance the budget without stalling what appears to be a fragile economic recovery or slashing important social programs such as Medicare? “The U.S. government has sent all the wrong messages to its trade partners and allies abroad. We have allowed our credit rating to be lowered, which tells other nations we may default on our debt. “Meanwhile, the political disclosure is unable to reach a consensus on how to restructure our debt obligations. Henceforth, we need to put America first.” What do you see as the top international issue facing the nation, and how would you address it? “The enormous debt affects all our trade partners. Because of this, we must move our economy back to honest money. “I propose state-chartered banked backed by gold with a state bank insurance fund instead of federal. This would allow us to move off the Federal Reserve bank notes to silver and to silver and gold certificates.

How do you balance the budget without stalling what appears to be a fragile economic recovery or slashing important social programs such as Medicare? Is it possible? “It’s not only possible, it’s necessary. We must immediately cut government spending across-the-board to balance the budget this year and suspend all job-killing mandates and regulations of the past 25 years. “By opening up avenues of opportunity, we will unleash America’s job creators to grow their companies, increase the American workforce and provide stability to our economy and revenue for essential government services.” What do you see as the top international issue facing the nation, and how would you address it? “Our dependence on foreign oil. America must be energy independent. I’ll fight to open up oil-rich areas for exploration, including the Alaska National Wildlife Refuge and coastal areas, and fight for approval of projects such as the Keystone pipeline. “It’s also time we had an ‘Endangered Economy Act.’ I’ll push for new laws that require any environmental decision to have an economic impact analysis. Those decisions that kill jobs and hurt America’s energy independence must be offset by other changes that free up more jobs and more energy resources.” The Union, Election 2012, May 18 & 20, 2012 15

“Circulation of money at no interest would save a lot of money over time. The executive order was executed by President John Kennedy but never implemented; it is still on the books.”

“I will also fight to pass the balanced budget amendment so that Washington can never again put taxpayers at risk of national bankruptcy. I oppose adding any additional debt, and I oppose raising the debt ceiling.”

U.S. CONGRESSIONAL DIST. 1

candidates Michael Dacquisto Age: 58 Party: Republican Current city: Redding, Calif. Hometown: Redding, Calif. Occupation: Bankruptcy trustee, 1997-present; selfemployed attorney, 1978-present Education: BA economics, Stanford University 1975; JD, University of Southern California, 1978 Family: Wife, Tina, and two adult children Website: www.votedacquisto.com

Why are you running for this office? “This country is bankrupt. It is drowning in debt. If nothing is done, we will be worse than Greece. “I am tired of politicians in Washington talking and not acting. I want to get our country back on the right track for all of us. Career politicians have created this mess. They should make way for citizen legislators who will solve these problem, not perpetuate them to stay in office. I have fresh ideas and am a man of principle. I take no donations. My vote is not for sale. I will not stay longer than six years.” How does your background and experience make you a strong candidate for this seat? “With an economics degree and 15 years of experience as a bankruptcy trustee, I know how to solve the debt/deficit problem we face. As a small businessman, I know how government regulations prevent economic growth and take away confidence in our system.

BALLOT PROPOSITIONS Proposition 28: Limits on Legislators’ terms in office Summary Reduces total amount of time a person may serve in the state legislature from 14 years to 12 years. Allows 12 years’ service in one house. Applies only to legislators first elected after measure is passed. Fiscal Impact: No direct fiscal effect on state or local governments. What your vote means Yes — A YES vote on this measure means: Future Members of the State Legislature could serve a total of 12 years in office—without regard to whether the years were served in the State Assembly or the State Senate. Legislators first elected on or before June 5, 2012 would continue to be restricted by existing term limits. No — A NO vote on this measure means: Existing term limits for the Legislature would remain in place for current and future legislators. These limits allow a total of 14 years in office—including a maximum of six years in the State Assembly and eight years in the State Senate. Arguments Pro — The status quo isn’t working. After two decades, our term limits law needs fixing. Prop. 28 places a hard 12 year limit on legislators and closes the loophole that allows legislators to serve nearly 17 years. It’s a simple reform that helps make legislators more accountable. Read it. Vote Yes. Con — Proposition 28 is a scam by special interests to trick voters into weakening term limits. It actually lengthens—not reduces—terms for politicians in office. It doubles the time politicians can serve in the State Assembly. It increases by 50 percent the time politicians can serve in the State Senate.

“My ideas are based on common sense, are straightforward and tackle all of the problems head on. They are things the average person will support.”

Source: California Secretary of State

What do you see as the top domestic issue in this race, and how would you address it? “If the government were a family, last year it took in $23,000, spent $36,000 and owed $150,000 on its credit card. “Adding unfunded Medicare and Social Security, the credit card debt goes up five times. A family in that situation is bankrupt. It would cut up the credit card and bring spending in line with income. “The government needs to do exactly the same. I would not vote to increase the national debt. This will force the government to address the spending problem.” How do you balance the budget without stalling what appears to be a fragile economic recovery or slashing important social programs such as Medicare? Is it possible? “Washington can’t agree on smart cuts or managed cuts, so it does nothing. “Across-the-board cuts are the answer. That way, everyone shares equally in the pain of reduced spending. Start with a 10 percent reduction and go from there.

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“The economy and our country are strong enough to weather any possible economic consequences from these actions. To stay in power, current politicians say these things can’t be done because the consequences will be too severe. I do not believe that is true. I know the consequences of doing nothing are infinitely worse.” What do you see as the top international issue facing the nation, and how would you address it? “The biggest international issue we face is the constant threat from terrorists, of all types. They have vowed to do anything possible to destroy our country, including biological, nuclear or computer-related attacks. There may be other types of attacks we have not yet seen. “We need to do everything possible to prevent these things from happening, on our soil, against us overseas and against our allies overseas. A strong military, FBI, CIA and NSA are all vital in this mission.”

Proposition 29: Imposes additional tax on cigarettes for cancer research Summary Imposes additional $1 per pack tax on cigarettes and an equivalent tax increase on other tobacco products. Revenues fund research for cancer and tobacco-related diseases. Fiscal Impact: Net increase in cigarette excise tax revenues of about $735 million annually by 2013–14 for certain research and tobacco prevention and cessation programs. Other state and local revenue increases amounting to tens of millions of dollars annually. What your vote means Yes — A YES vote on this measure means: State excise taxes on cigarettes would increase by $1 per pack to a total of $1.87 per pack. These additional revenues would be dedicated to fund cancer and tobacco-related disease research and tobacco prevention and cessation programs. No — A NO vote on this measure means: State excise taxes on cigarettes would remain at the current level of 87 cents per pack and would continue to be used for existing purposes, including childhood development programs and various health and tobacco prevention and cessation programs.

Arguments Pro — The American Cancer Society, American Heart Association and American Lung Association wrote Prop. 29 to save lives, stop kids from smoking, and fund cancer research. Big Tobacco opposes Prop. 29 because they know it will reduce smoking in California. Prop. 29 saves lives, but only with a YES vote. Con — Everyone supports cancer research, but Prop. 29 is flawed: $735 million annually in new taxes but doesn’t require revenue be spent in California to create jobs or fund schools. Creates new government spending bureaucracy with political appointees, duplicating existing programs. More waste, no accountability to taxpayers. No on 29. ReadForYourself.org Source: California Secretary of State