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1 Advertising Supplement to The Laurinburg Exchange Thursday, October 25, 2018 Representative Garland E. Pierce House District 48 Since 2004 Democratic Whip 2017-2018 N.C. House of Representatives Please remember to get out and vote. Every vote counts! Thanks to everyone for your support. Laurinburg Exchange 2018 Voters Guide In partnership with the League of Women Voters of the MidSandhills Unit NC Established in 1920, the League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan education and advocacy group focused on election and voter information. The MidSandhills Member-At-Large Unit of the League was established in 2017 to provide voter information, advocate for positive change in the local area, and to foster civil dialogue about important community issues. The League launched VOTE411.org, a nonpartisan one stop shop for election information. A voter simply enters their street address to see their personalized ballot, candidate stances on the issues, early voting and registration information, and much more. We sent questionnaires to every candidate in every race in Scotland County, so you can hear from the candidates in their own words where they stand on the issues. Membership to the League is open to women and men. For further information, please contact Martha Roblee at [email protected] or Melissa Schaub at melissa. League of Women Voters a nonpartisan organization The General Election is on Nov. 6 and all precincts will begin operation at 6:30 Tuesday morning and run until 7:30 p.m. So voters have 13 hours to cast their vote if they were unable or chose not to do so during the One- Stop Early Voting period. Precinct 8’s location has been changed to the Economic Development Building and Precinct 9 is still at the Laurel Hill Community Building but is in a different room than it has been. Polling locations: — Precinct 1: Scotland County Annex at 231 East Cronly St., Laurinburg. — Precinct 2: The Learning Center at 420 Stewartsville Road, Laurinburg. — Precinct 3: Scotland Place at 1210 Turnpike Road, Laurinburg. — Precinct 4: National Guard Armory at 1520 S. Main St., Laurinburg. — Precinct 5: Johns Fire Station at 8781 Johns Road, Laurinburg. — Precinct 6: East Laurinburg Community Building on Third Street, East Laurinburg. — Precinct 7: Wagram Recreation Center at 24441 Marlboro St., Wagram. — Precinct 8: Economic Development Building at 16800 U.S. 401, Laurinburg. — Precinct 9: Laurel Hill Community Building at 14940 Church St., Laurel Hill. — Precinct 10: Gibson Fire Station at 6280 Gibson Road, Gibson. For those who haven’t registered yet, it isn’t too late — though waiting until Monday will be. Voters can take advantage of One-Stop Early Voting at the Scotland County Annex until Saturday, where registrations can still be done. Those who wish to register must bring some form of identification that shows their name and residential address. Documents that will allow the resident to register include items such as a utility bill, bank statement, property tax statement, vehicle registration, or a North Carolina driver’s license. One-Stop Early Voting will be open weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. — with the final day being a Saturday Nov. 3, it will be open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Polling locations for the general election Ballots can be cast between 6:30 a.m., 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 6 There are six proposed amendments to the North Carolina Constitution on the ballot this fall — one deals with voter ID requirements. Here are summaries of those constitutional amendments North Carolinians are being asked to vote for or against in the Nov. 6 election, as well as the referendum in Scotland County. Hunting and fishing What the ballot says: “Constitutional amendment protecting the right of the people to hunt, fish, and harvest wildlife.” Background: The amendment would prohibit restrictions on hunting and fishing except for laws or rules to “promote wildlife conservation and management … and preserve the future of hunting and fishing,” according to the text of the amendment. Supporters say: The percentage of the United States population that hunts or fishes has declined and both practices have received more criticism in recent years. Proponents say the amendment would keep anti-hunting or anti-fishing sentiment from resulting in unreasonable laws restricting the practices in the future. Opponents say: There have been few, if any, legislative threats to either practice and the amendment is unnecessary. They say the state Constitution should speak to more fundamental topics, not details the General Assembly can handle, and the amendment is just an attempt to increase Republican turnout. Crime victims’ rights What the ballot says: “Constitutional amendment to strengthen protections for victims of crime; to establish certain absolute basic rights for victims; and to ensure the enforcement of these rights.” Background: The state Constitution already gives victims of serious crimes rights, including the right to be informed of and be present at court proceedings, to be heard at sentencing of the accused, to receive restitution, to confer with the prosecutor and for information about the outcome of a case or the escape or release of an offender. The amendment would expand those rights to apply to all crimes against the victim personally and all felony property crimes and would include crimes committed by juveniles. It would also clarify existing law in some cases to say the justice system must make reasonable efforts to uphold victims’ rights and that the legislature must provide a procedure whereby victims may assert their rights. Victims would still not have the ability to challenge verdicts or sentences of those convicted. Supporters say: Some prosecutors do a good job of informing victims of the progress or a case and some do not. They say the changes will improve the chances that victims will be told of hearings or a prisoner’s status after conviction. They also note that, unlike the other amendments on the ballot, this amendment was placed on the ballot with support from wide majorities of both Democrats and Republicans in the legislature. Opponents say: The law would slow down court proceedings and make them more expensive and victims’ rights already listed in the Constitution are sufficient. One state agency estimated the annual cost of implementation at $30.5 million a year. Legislative staffers said it would be $11.2 million a year but there are some indirect costs it could not estimate. There are also concerns that it is not known how the legislature would implement the law. Income tax cap What the ballot says: “Constitutional amendment to reduce the income tax rate in North Carolina to a maximum allowable rate of seven percent (7%).” Background: The personal income tax rate is currently 5.499 percent, so passage of the referendum would not lower anyone’s taxes today. It would prevent the state from making the tax rate higher than 7 percent. The limit now in the Constitution is 10 percent. Supporters say: State government has been able to operate well with a lower rate and lowering the cap on the rate would keep the General Assembly from overtaxing in the future. Opponents say: The cap would increase the chances the state will continue to under-fund education and give it less flexibility to fund state government in times of disaster or recession. Judicial vacancies What the ballot says: “Constitutional amendment to change the process for filling judicial vacancies from a process in which the Governor has sole appointment power …” Background: When a judge’s job becomes vacant today, the governor has the sole power to appoint someone to serve out the judge’s unexpired term in office. The amendment calls instead for the governor, legislature and chief justice of the state Supreme Court to appoint a commission to evaluate nominees without considering party affiliation. Then the legislature would recommend at least two of the nominees to the governor, who would have to pick one of the nominees to serve out the term or let the legislature choose one. In some cases, the chief justice would pick a temporary judge. Supporters say: Governors have too few restraints on their ability to pick judges and sometimes have put political cronies on the bench. They say the change would reduce political considerations in choosing judges and improve the quality of the judiciary. State will present voters with several amendment questions Scotland County residents will be asked to decide over a quarter-cent sales tax hike Know who you’re voting for on Nov. 6? 2018 NC General Election Early Voting Oct.17 - Nov. 3 Election Day Nov. 6 Find your County’s Early Voting dates and sites through NCSBE.gov GO online: Scan this QR code with your smart phone to go to VOTE411.org Nonpartisan election information website! 1. Fill in your local address 2. Find your polling place 3. Get your ballot ! Compare your candidates’ views on issues in their own words ! See your ballot measures Continued on 2C
Transcript
Page 1: In partnership with the League of Women Voters of …...Find your County’s Early Voting dates and sites through NCSBE.gov GO online: Scan this QR code with your smart phone to go

1Advertising Supplement to The Laurinburg ExchangeThursday, October 25, 2018

Representative Garland E. PierceHouse District 48 Since 2004Democratic Whip 2017-2018

N.C. House of Representatives

Please remember to get out and vote. Every vote counts!

Thanks to everyone for your support.

Laurinburg Exchange 2018 Voters Guide

In partnership with the League of Women Voters of the MidSandhills Unit NC

Established in 1920, the League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan education and advocacy group focused on election and voter information. The MidSandhills Member-At-Large Unit of the League was established in 2017 to provide voter information, advocate for positive change in the local area, and to foster civil dialogue about important community issues.

The League launched VOTE411.org, a nonpartisan one stop shop for election information. A voter simply enters their street address to see

their personalized ballot, candidate stances on the issues, early voting and registration information, and much more. We sent questionnaires to every candidate in every race in Scotland County, so you can hear from the candidates in their own words where they stand on the issues.

Membership to the League is open to women and men. For further information, please contact Martha Roblee at [email protected] or Melissa Schaub at melissa.

League of Women Votersa nonpartisan organization

The General Election is on Nov. 6 and all precincts will begin operation at 6:30 Tuesday morning and run until 7:30 p.m. So voters have 13 hours to cast their vote if they were unable or chose not to do so during the One-Stop Early Voting period.

Precinct 8’s location has been changed to the Economic Development Building and Precinct 9 is still at the Laurel Hill Community Building but is in a diff erent room than it has been.

Polling locations:

— Precinct 1: Scotland County Annex at 231 East Cronly St., Laurinburg.

— Precinct 2: The Learning Center at 420 Stewartsville Road, Laurinburg.

— Precinct 3: Scotland Place at 1210 Turnpike Road, Laurinburg.

— Precinct 4: National Guard Armory at 1520 S. Main St., Laurinburg.

— Precinct 5: Johns Fire Station at 8781 Johns Road, Laurinburg.

— Precinct 6: East Laurinburg Community Building on Third Street, East Laurinburg.

— Precinct 7: Wagram Recreation Center at 24441 Marlboro St., Wagram.

— Precinct 8: Economic Development Building at 16800 U.S. 401, Laurinburg.

— Precinct 9: Laurel Hill Community Building at 14940 Church St., Laurel Hill.

— Precinct 10: Gibson Fire Station at 6280 Gibson Road, Gibson.

For those who haven’t registered yet, it isn’t too late — though waiting until Monday will be. Voters can take advantage of One-Stop Early Voting at the Scotland County Annex until Saturday, where registrations can still be done.

Those who wish to register must bring some form of identifi cation that shows their name and residential address. Documents that will allow the resident to register include items such as a utility bill, bank statement, property tax statement, vehicle registration, or a North Carolina driver’s license.

One-Stop Early Voting will be open weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. — with the fi nal day being a Saturday Nov. 3, it will be open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Polling locations for the general electionBallots can be cast between 6:30 a.m., 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 6

There are six proposed amendments to the North Carolina Constitution on the ballot this fall — one deals with voter ID requirements. Here are summaries of those constitutional amendments North Carolinians are being asked to vote for or against in the Nov. 6 election, as well as the referendum in Scotland County.

Hunting and fi shing

What the ballot says: “Constitutional amendment protecting the right of the people to hunt, fi sh, and harvest wildlife.”

Background: The amendment would prohibit restrictions on hunting and fi shing except for laws or rules to “promote wildlife conservation and management … and preserve the future of hunting and fi shing,” according to the text of the amendment.

Supporters say: The percentage of the United States population that hunts or fi shes has declined and both practices have received more criticism in recent years. Proponents say the amendment would keep anti-hunting or anti-fi shing sentiment from resulting in unreasonable laws restricting the practices in the future.

Opponents say: There have been few, if any, legislative threats to either practice and the amendment is unnecessary. They say the state Constitution should speak to more fundamental topics, not details the General Assembly can handle, and the amendment is just an attempt to increase Republican turnout.

Crime victims’ rights

What the ballot says: “Constitutional amendment to strengthen protections for victims of crime; to establish certain absolute basic rights for victims; and to ensure the enforcement of these rights.”

Background: The state Constitution already gives victims of serious crimes rights, including the right to be informed of and be present at court proceedings, to be heard at sentencing of the accused, to receive restitution, to confer with the prosecutor and for information about the outcome of a case or the escape or release of an off ender.

The amendment would expand those rights to apply to all crimes against the victim personally and all felony property crimes and would include crimes committed by juveniles. It would also clarify existing law in some cases to say the justice system must make reasonable eff orts to uphold victims’ rights and that the legislature must provide a procedure whereby victims may assert their rights. Victims would still not have the ability to challenge verdicts or sentences of those convicted.

Supporters say: Some prosecutors do a good job of informing victims of the progress or a case and some do not. They say the changes will improve

the chances that victims will be told of hearings or a prisoner’s status after conviction. They also note that, unlike the other amendments on the ballot, this amendment was placed on the ballot with support from wide majorities of both Democrats and Republicans in the legislature.

Opponents say: The law would slow down court proceedings and make them more expensive and victims’ rights already listed in the Constitution are suffi cient. One state agency estimated the annual cost of implementation at $30.5 million a year. Legislative staff ers said it would be $11.2 million a year but there are some indirect costs it could not estimate. There are also concerns that it is not known how the legislature would implement the law.

Income tax cap

What the ballot says: “Constitutional amendment to reduce the income tax rate in North Carolina to a maximum allowable rate of seven percent (7%).”

Background: The personal income tax rate is currently 5.499 percent, so passage of the referendum would not lower anyone’s taxes today. It would prevent the state from making the tax rate higher than 7 percent. The limit now in the Constitution is 10 percent.

Supporters say: State government has been able to operate well with a lower rate and lowering the cap on the rate would keep the General Assembly from overtaxing in the future.

Opponents say: The cap would increase the chances the state will continue to under-fund education and give it less fl exibility to fund state government in times of disaster or recession.

Judicial vacancies

What the ballot says: “Constitutional amendment to change the process for fi lling judicial vacancies from a process in which the Governor has sole appointment power …”

Background: When a judge’s job becomes vacant today, the governor has the sole power to appoint someone to serve out the judge’s unexpired term in offi ce. The amendment calls instead for the governor, legislature and chief justice of the state Supreme Court to appoint a commission to evaluate nominees without considering party affi liation. Then the legislature would recommend at least two of the nominees to the governor, who would have to pick one of the nominees to serve out the term or let the legislature choose one. In some cases, the chief justice would pick a temporary judge.

Supporters say: Governors have too few restraints on their ability to pick judges and sometimes have put political cronies on the bench. They say the change would reduce political considerations in choosing judges and improve the quality of the judiciary.

State will present voters with several amendment questionsScotland County residents will be asked to decide over a quarter-cent sales tax hike

Knowwhoyou’revotingforonNov.6?

2018 NCGeneral Election

Early Voting Oct.17 - Nov. 3

Election Day Nov. 6

FindyourCounty’sEarlyVotingdatesandsites

throughNCSBE.gov

GOonline:

ScanthisQRcodewithyoursmartphonetogotoVOTE411.org

Nonpartisan election information website!

1.  Fillinyourlocaladdress2.  Findyourpollingplace3.  Getyourballot! Compareyourcandidates’

viewsonissuesintheirownwords

!  Seeyourballotmeasures

Continued on 2C

Page 2: In partnership with the League of Women Voters of …...Find your County’s Early Voting dates and sites through NCSBE.gov GO online: Scan this QR code with your smart phone to go

2 Advertising Supplement to The Laurinburg Exchange Thursday, October 25, 2018

RUSSELL WALKER FOR HOUSE DISTRICT 48

WWW.WALKERFORHOUSE48.COMGARLAND PIERCE IN OFFICE FOR 14 YEARS

TIME FOR A CHANGEEND WAR ON DRUGS • NO INCOME TAX ON WAGES

HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION • REPEAL FOOD TAXCRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM • FAIR TRIALS

STOP NO KNOCK SEARCHES AND POLICE MURDERS

A CENTURY OF DEMOCRATIC PARTY RULE

The Worst of EverythingPER CAPITA INCOME N.C. 100 COUNTIES:Hoke County (86th) $17.630 • Scotland County (97th) $16,297

POVERTY RATESN.C. 15.4% Hoke 19.5% (+26.6%) • Scotland 27.6% (+79.3%)

PROPERTY TAX RATES PER HUNDRED DOLLARS ASSESSED

Hoke $0.75 plus fire charges (10th) • Scotland $1.01/$100 (1st)CANCER MORTALITY RATES PER 100,000

POPULATION:N.C. 166.6 Hoke: 173.3 (+4%) • Scotland: 195.5 (+17%) Paid for by Committee to elect Timothy Ivey, County Commissioner

The Sheriff is the chief law enforcement officer of the county and is elected in partisan elections for a 4-year term. No person is eligible to serve as sheriff if that person has been convicted of a felony, whether or not their rights of citizenship have been restored. Duties of the Sheriff’s office include the operation of the jail, law enforcement, providing security for courts, serving criminal warrants and other writs and summonses, and transporting prisoners.

Candidates include:(Candidates that did not complete the questionnaire were omitted.)

John MartinParty: DemocratAge: 51Mailing Address: 12501 PONDEROSA CIR LAURINBURG, NC 28352Contact Phone: (910) 280-4513Website: http://www.martin4sheriff.orgFacebook: http://John Martin Sheriff 2018Twitter: twitter.com/JMartin4SheriffPosition/philosophy statement: A vested candidate for the Continuous Improvement of Scotland County.

Questions:Q: What professional attributes and experience do you believe makes you the best candidate for this office? A: My career in public service as a Junior Firefighter, Firefighter, EMT, State Trooper and Deputy Sheriff shows the dedication and commitment I have to helping my fellow man. My record of success will show that I am honest and accountable for my actions and that I have a strong desire to rebuild the professionalism within the Sheriff’s Office. In my thirty five years of public service, I have been the recipient of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, N.C. Governor’s Award for Bravery and Heroism, N.C.

Q: What do you think is the most important challenge the Sheriff’s office will face in the next 4 years and how will you address that challenge?A: As with most Sheriff’s Offices across the state, I feel the greatest challenge will be funding. I will start with restructuring

the personnel to assure that the members are in a position that will utilize their full potential. I, along with my Command Staff, will evaluate all equipment to determine what is needed to ensure that the men and women of the Sheriff’s Office are given the needed tools to effectively carry out their duties. I will utilize all available state and federal grants as well.

Q: What do you see as the role of the Sheriff’s department in protecting student and teacher safety in Scotland County schools? A: As the Sheriff of the County, I feel it is my duty to provide as much protection at all schools within the county as possible. If elected as Sheriff, I have a plan that will put multiple law enforcement agencies in our schools. I will work with the School Board and the County Commissioners to increase funding for at least two Deputies to work with the Laurinburg Police Department at Scotland High School. A Law Enforcement Officer should be on campus at all times.

Q: What programs should be conducted by the Sheriff’s department to prevent violence and keep Scotland County safe for all its citizens? A: As the Sheriff, I must always be concerned for the physical safety and welfare of the citizens in my County. Domestic Violence is one type of violence that by partnering with our local District Attorney, we can build a strong Court Advocate to assist our citizens with how to proceed with complaints of abuse. I would also cross train my School Resource Officers with Gang Awareness Training to be able to recognize students who are affiliated with gangs, so that we can remove the violence that is a

Q: Will you coordinate and partner with the Laurinburg Police Department? If yes, how? If no, why? A: Partnering with the Laurinburg Police Department and all surrounding agencies is a must. I have met with Chief Williams on several occasions and discussed many different ways that I can assist him: Adding Sheriff Deputies as School Resource Officers at Scotland High School, Working to build a City/County Drug Task Force, and Working to build a City/County Gang Unit are just three ways that I believe we can partner together to make a difference.

Sheriff’s race includes incumbent, challenger

The 7-member Board-of-Commissioners sets the policy for the county, determin-ing the strategic vision for the county, appoints a county manager, attorney and others to serve the county, adopts ordi-nances, including zoning, and establishes an annual budget, which includes setting the tax rate and calling bond referendums. Commissioners serve 4-year terms.

Candidates:(Candidates that did not complete the questionnaire were omitted.)

Bo FrizzellParty: RepAge: 53Mailing Address: P O BOX 221 WAGRAM, NC 28396Contact Phone: (910) 334-2760Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bo-frizzellforcountycommissioner2018/Position/philosophy statement: People, Not PoliticsEmail address: [email protected]

Questions:Q: What experience and qualities do you feel you bring to this office? A: I have worked and lived in Scotland county for over twenty years. I arrived in Scotland County with three hundred dollars in my pocket and rugged ambition. After years of hard work I have been able to build myself a competitive and growing business in Scotland County. While I am new to politics, I am not new to the business or economic world of the County. I know how to grow a successful business and I will apply all of my knowledge and hard work towards improving the County.

Q: What is the most important issue the Scotland County Board of Commissioners will have to address in the next 4 years? A: The most important issue is the poverty of this County. As I have said many times the only way to rise up from our County’s poverty level is to improve our education opportunities in the county and use

common sense spending. We need to attract more businesses to Scotland and we need a skilled workforce

to do that. We need to give a reason for entrepreneurs to choose Scotland County. With more businesses in the county we will be able to reduce the burden of taxes on our residents.

Q: What do you plan to do to stimulate economic development and job creation in Scotland County and how will it be financed? A: If elected county commissioner I will push for funding for vocational education for the people of Scotland County. I am talking about education for students, but also for the residents who are out of school and do not have the necessary skills to join the workforce. My plan is to get the local businesses more involved in the community and vice versa.

Q: Do you believe the “Scotland School Floor” funding law is a good public investment in education for Scotland County? If yes, explain why? If no, what adjustments would you propose? A: I believe that the Scotland School Floor funding law is an outdated law in the county. Scotland County is the only County in North Carolina that has this mandate. Ultimately, the fate of this funding law should be up to the residents of the County. I believe that the Board of Commissioners and Board of Education should allow the residents of the County to vote on this law once and for all. It is the residents that are paying for this law and it should be up to them.

Q: How important to you is building consensus within the Scotland County Board of Commissioners? A: There needs to be a consensus in order for the Board of Commissioners to get work done for the County. As my daughter-in-law says there can’t be any community without unity.

Q: Do you support restrictions on the carry and use of firearms in public areas such as parks and community centers where the primary users are children and youth? Why or why not?A: I believe that concealed carry should be allowed in public areas. The Board of Commissioners voted on this in 2011 and they determined that only concealed carry should be allowed in public areas and I agree with this decision.

Opponents say: The measure is yet another step to transfer power from the governor to the legislature. They say the process would still be political and would require candidates to lobby legislators whose laws they would have to one day rule on.

Elections board changes

What the ballot says: “Constitutional amendment to establish an eight-member Bipartisan Board of Ethics and Elections Enforcement in the Constitution to administer ethics and elections law.”

Background: Today, each major political party nominates six members to the board that runs elections and handles ethics issues involving state officials. The governor chooses four members from the six nominees. The eight people chosen nominate two unaffiliated voters and the governor picks one to serve on the nine-member board.

The amendment would have the General Assembly choose eight members, four from each political party.

Supporters say: The governor has too much power over the electoral process and dividing the board’s membership equally between the parties would require the board to come up with bipartisan decisions.

Opponents say: The change is another power grab by the legislature, would leave the board hopelessly deadlocked and cuts out unaffiliated voters. The result, they say, would be weaker enforcement of election and ethics law.

Voter IDThe North Carolina Voter ID Amendment is on the ballot in North Carolina as a legislatively referred constitutional amendment on November 6, 2018.

A “yes” vote supports creating a constitutional requirement that voters present a photo ID to vote in person.

A “no” vote opposes creating a constitutional requirement that voters present a photo ID to vote in person.

What would this ballot measure do?The ballot measure would add language to the North Carolina Constitution to require voters to present a photo ID to vote in person. The North Carolina State Legislature would be responsible for passing laws to govern the photo ID requirement.

How did the measure get on the ballot?

The state Legislature referred the constitutional amendment to the ballot. The North Carolina House of Representatives passed the amendment 74 to 43. Republicans controlled 75 seats in the state House, and 74 House Republicans voted for the amendment. Democrats voted against the amendment. On June 29, 2018, the North Carolina State Senate passed the measure in a 33 to 12 vote. Republicans supported the amendment, and Democrats opposed the amendment. As a constitutional amendment, the governor’s signatures was not required to put the amendment on the ballot

What would it require?This amendment requires you to show photographic identification to a poll-worker before you can vote in person. It does not apply to absentee voting.

The Legislature would make laws providing the details of acceptable and unacceptable forms of photographic identification after passage of the proposed amendment. The Legislature would be authorized to establish exceptions to the requirement to present photographic identification before voting. However, it is not required to make any exceptions.

There are no further details at this time on how voters could acquire valid photographic identification for the purposes of voting. There is no official estimate of how much this proposal would cost if it is approved.

Quarter-cent sales taxThe Scotland County Board of Commissioners approved the addition of a quarter-cent sales tax referendum which, if approved by voters, would change Scotland County’s 6.75 percent sales tax to 7 percent.The sales tax would affect anyone who shops in Scotland County, including those who stop for travel supplies, food, lodging or who come to shop at the various stores.

“It’s a minimal amount and that $700,000 (it would raise) would go to provide some capital funding that the county would apply toward the vast majority of the operating cost,” said County Commissioner Guy McCook.

The proposed multi-cultural center built by Parks and Recreation, will offer classes and activities for everyone in the community. Currently the plans include a gym, indoor swimming pool, classrooms, elevated walking track and outdoor water feature that will be attached to the splash pad. The 40,000-square-foot center will likely cost $10 million to build and estimations so far are that it will take $500,000 to operate annually.

To put the potential increase into perspective, the sales tax on a $1 purchase of goods currently gets rounded from 6.75 cents to 7 cents automatically and would not change if the referendum passes; a $10 purchase is now charged 68 cents in sales tax and would be charged 70 cents if the referendum passes; a $100 purchase now sees $6.75 in sales tax charged, which would increase to $7 if the referendum passes.

Continued from 1C

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Scotland County Board of Commissioners Spring Hill Township

Page 3: In partnership with the League of Women Voters of …...Find your County’s Early Voting dates and sites through NCSBE.gov GO online: Scan this QR code with your smart phone to go

3Advertising Supplement to The Laurinburg ExchangeThursday, October 25, 2018

HELEN WILL STAND UP FDA NORTH CAROLINA FAMILIESHelen has been a Longtime champion for education. As a member of theNorthern Moore Family Resource center, she helped expand access to early child-hood education. As a member of the Sand hills Community College Board of Trustees. she found ways to provide no-cost tuition to high school students from Moore & Hoke Counties.Now. Helen wants to go to Raleigh so she can work to put kids and schools first, in-cluding raising teacher pay. She will fight for more job training and creating good

jobs for us here at home. Helen will stand up to anybody who wants to make our health care more expensive- especially for those with pre-existing conditions.

SEE WHO’S SUPPORTING HELEN• North Carolina Association of Educators• NC League of Conservation Voters• Governor Roy Cooper• Secretary of State Elaine Marshall• Attorney General Josh Stein• State Representative Garland Pierce

MEET HELENHelen is an attorney, a small-business owner and a leader in her community. She is a wife, daughter, sister, and most proudly, a mother of three amazing children. Helen knows the value of hard work. From her childhood in which she was raised by a single mother with no money and worked various jobs to put herself through school, Helen’s desire to give back to the com-munity comes from her mother’s emphasis on helping others.Helen will take her deeply instilled belief in public service to the legislature and fight for what is important to all North Carolin-ians.

EARLY VOTING CONTINUES THROUGH NOVEMBER 3RD.ELECTION DAY IS NOVEMBER 6TH- POLLS ARE OPEN FROM 6:30AM TO 7:30PM

WWW.HELENFORNCSENATE.COM

PAID FOR BY THE COMMITTEE TO ELECT HELEN PROBST MILLS

Scotland County Board of Education Stewartsville TownshipThe Scotland County Board of Education is the local governing body of the County Public School System; Its members are elected in nonpartisan elections by townships and at large and serve staggered 4-year terms. The 7-member school board has 5 primary responsibilities: 1. Employ the superintendent 2. Establish policy 3. Determine annual operating and capital budgets 4. Approve student assignment boundaries 5. Oversee the management of the school district’s major systems, including budget and finance, curriculum and instruction, personnel and auxiliary services

Candidates:(Candidates that did not complete the questionnaire were omitted.)

Raymond HyattAge: 54Mailing Address: 12400 INGLESIDE DR LAURINBURG, NC 28352Contact Phone: (910) 280-2694Facebook: http://Raymond HyattPosition/philosophy statement: I believe that a quality is the greatest advantage we can give our our children to prepare them to be successful as self sufficient adults.Email address: [email protected]

Q: What experience and qualities do you feel you bring to this office? A: “I believe having served for the last four years has been great training! Before that I feel that my experience as a business owner had provided wisdom on operating with in a budget, understanding current needs, but also looking projectively for future needs. My ability to work well with people I believe has given me a great advantage. Everyday is a learning experi-ence because of the opportunity to talk with educators,parents and students in our district. I refer to it as on the job training.

Q: What do you think is the most important responsibility of a school board member? A: Our job is to hire and hold the superin-tendent, approve contacts and create poli-cies. The most important is seeing that the s Superintendent is held accountable. Mak-ing sure that the district is doing all that we can do to provide the best education.

Q: What are the critical state funding needs for this county’s schools and how would you address those needs? A: With the demand

Q: How would you assess teacher satis-faction in the county and how would you promote professional development? A: As stated in the previous question, salaries

Q: Pre-Kindergarten is: [Importance Scale]A: 1

Q: Please explain your choice. A: - no response -

Q: What are the issues in recruiting and retaining qualified teachers? A: The largest issue is the fact that we don’t have the number of people going into education as a career choice. Being a small rural community offers its challenges attracting young educators who are not only looking for jobs but a social life as well. Ways that we could attract more I think are correctly doing is partnering with universi-ties allowing students to do their student teaching in our district. With the hopes that once there here in our Schools we keep them as permanent staff members.

Gary W. MaukAge: 58Mailing Address: 9581 DEERFIELD CIRCLE LAURINBURG, NC 28352Contact Phone: (910) 291-3128Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/gary.mauk.395Position/philosophy statement: Educa-tion = Key to success. “For these are all our children, we will all profit by or pay for what they become.” — James Baldwin (American novelist)Email address: [email protected]

Q: What experience and qualities do you feel you bring to this office? A: “I have more than three decades of experience in various capacities as a school and child-adolescent developmental psychologist (including several years in public schools), and a passion for public school education that focuses on the whole child/adolescent (i.e., physical, intellec-tual, emotional, and social aspects). I am a caring and dedicated citizen and higher education professional who desires to col-laborate with others to ensure high-quality education for Scotland County students.

Q: What do you think is the most important responsibility of a school board member?

A: To develop, implement, assess, and revise policies for the school district that align with the district’s vision, mission, and strategic plan toward providing all students with opportunities for academic success and social-emotional well-being.

Q: What are the critical state funding needs for this county’s schools and how would you address those needs?A: The critical state funding needs for my county’s schools include high-quality in-structional and support services personnel and facilities operations. I would address these critical needs by (a) strategically ad-vocating to and consulting with those indi-viduals who influence state-level education funding regarding my County’s assessed student needs and (b) encourage district personnel to apply for any discretionary state, federal, and private funding to ad-dress identified local educational needs.

Q: How would you assess teacher satis-faction in the county and how would you promote professional development? A: I would assess teacher satisfaction by (a) reviewing district results from the most recent administration of the NC Teacher Working Conditions Survey (TWCS) and (b) visiting local schools to speak with teachers regarding their issues/concerns. I would promote teacher professional development by (1) aligning and sustaining professional development resources/op-portunities to meet district goals, and (2) encourage district development/submis-sion of professional development-related grant proposals.

Q: Pre-Kindergarten is: [Importance Scale]A: 5

Q: Please explain your choice.A: Pre-Kindergarten programs that (a) effectively implement evidence-affirmed curricula, (b) promote active yet orderly classroom environments, and (c) provide coaching support for teachers are impor-tant for the following research-supported reasons: High-quality Pre-Kindergarten programs can especially improve learning outcomes for economically disadvantaged children, and they can enhance the early elementary grade readiness of children, particularly in the academic areas of literacy and numeracy.

Q: What are the issues in recruiting and retaining qualified teachers? A: (1) relatively lower teacher salaries; (2) phasing out salary increases for advanced degrees; (3) loss of professional respect/empowerment and job security benefits (e.g., career status); (4) reductions in funding for professional development and classroom resources; (5) too few induction programs in which early career/beginning teachers are paired with veteran teacher mentors; (6) lack of leadership/support from administrators; and (7) student be-havior and school climate-related issues.

Herman Lee Tyson, Jr.Age: 52Mailing Address: 623 WILKINSON DR LAURINBURG, NC 28352Contact Phone: (910) 373-5663Position/philosophy statement: I am advocate for our Students and Staff. I will work to have Vocational Education returned to our district. Empowering and Educating our Future.Email address: [email protected]

Questions:Q: What experience and qualities do you feel you bring to this office?A: “I have over 20 years of Leadership/Team Building experience. As a current Board Member I have gained knowledge of district policies and state laws;Skilled in budgeting, problem solving and transpar-ency. I currently serve as District 6 Deputy of the State Conference of the NAACP, President of the Scotland County Branch NAACP, Chairman of Deacons for Naza-reth Missionary Baptist Church, VP of the Scotland County Civic League and I am an member of the 2018 Chamber’s Leader-ship Scotland.

Q: What do you think is the most important responsibility of a school board member?A: Responsibility to your community. You have to be a voice for those who have trusted you with the education and safety of their children along with advocating for all employees. Transparency in decision and policy making is a must.

Q: What are the critical state funding needs for this county’s schools and how would you address those needs? A: Mental Health Counseling. Our students and their families deal with many issues including bullying and poverty. I would push to apply for Federal and State grants that would fund positions on full and part time basis. Our Liason committee mem-bers would work with Commissioners to make funding available for some of those positions using the School Floor funds.

Board of Ed has a few seats up for grabs Q: How would you assess teacher satis-faction in the county and how would you promote professional development?A: Teacher satisfaction and retainment is an on going task for the District. The turnover rate was slightly higher last year than in the previous year. Mostly due to re-tirements and transfers out of the district. Our district has Professional Develop-ment Days in which our Teachers interact with their peers from different schools in the district. The PDA’s help to promote problem solving and communication skills. I would work to incorporate more of the PDA days for our Teachers and Staff.

Q: Pre-Kindergarten is: [Importance Scale]A: 5

Q: Please explain your choice. A: Pre-K is very important in building a solid foundation for 12th grade graduation any beyond. One of the obstacles that I would concentrate on would be the growth of our literacy for 3rd grade and below. Our district has been awarded a 2.2 million dollar Literacy Grant that will enable our Teachers and Staff to implement needed change. Not only will our Pre-K students be offered the opportunity to utilize and build on their reading comprehension but this grant will with Parents.

Q: What are the issues in recruiting and retaining qualified teachers? A: Pay and incentives are the issue to recruitment and retainment of qualified teachers. Location and social life are a major factor in recruitment of qualified personnel. In 2017-18 school year our district participated in 8 job fairs; had over 82 face to face visitations to college campuses and our job vacancies are now posted Globally. Teaching is a passion must be rooted inside of you. As a board member I will continue to work with our HR staff to improve these measures.

Scotland County Board of Education At-LargeThe Scotland County Board of Education is the local governing body of the County Public School System; Its members are elected in nonpartisan elections by townships and at large and serve staggered 4-year terms. The 7-member school board has 5 primary responsibilities: 1. Employ the superintendent 2. Establish policy 3. Determine annual operating and capital budgets 4. Approve student assignment boundaries 5. Oversee the management

of the school district’s major systems, including budget and finance, curriculum and instruction, personnel and auxiliary services

Candidates:(Candidates that did not complete the questionnaire were omitted.)

Jacob E. PateAge: 21 years oldMailing Address: 10361 HAVELOCK DR LAURINBURG, NC 28352Contact Phone: (910) 384-5425Position/philosophy statement: Running For Board of Education. At-Large

Questions:Q: What experience and qualities do you feel you bring to this office?A: “I was in public school in Scotland County all my years. I’ve been in the classroom in the last 6 years & I know what the teachers and students are experiencing. I am young and I know I can fix problems they face now because I know what they are these days. I tutored students at the Honeycutt center. I have goals drive and passion for this. I will knockout bullying in our schools and make sure the money is going to the classrooms & teachers. I will be a voice for the people on the board.

Q: What do you think is the most important responsibility of a school board member?A: The most important responsibility of a school board member is to be a beacon of light to the students and a mentor, be a voice for the people, and be an official who will make decisions for the students, staff and administration.

Q: What are the critical state funding needs for this county’s schools and how would you address those needs?A: We need to make sure our teachers are paid well and also we must have funding for mental health, safety, and vocational programs. If elected, I will make sure the money in the floor tax are going to the classrooms and teachers, and we must use money saved and money through grants, NC Educational Lottery, and money already given to make sure safety is a priority, mental health is taken seriously, and to fund vocational training.

Q: How would you assess teacher satisfaction in the county and how would you promote professional development?A: We should make sure we give surveys

Continued on 4C

Page 4: In partnership with the League of Women Voters of …...Find your County’s Early Voting dates and sites through NCSBE.gov GO online: Scan this QR code with your smart phone to go

4 Advertising Supplement to The Laurinburg Exchange Thursday, October 25, 2018

★★★★★★★★★★

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ElectBo Frizzell

2018for Scotland

CountyCommissionerVote on November 6th, 2018

People, Not Politics“I would like to bring my skills of infrastructure, construction and

balancing a budget to the Scotland County Commissioners Board. One of the things that I would like to address as a

Commissioner is getting people to work.”

- Bo Frizzell

VOTEOn November 6th, 2018

Contributions can be sent to:P.O. Box 221

Wagram, NC 28396

Contact Bo@

@bofrizzellforcountycommissioner2018

Paid for by the Committee to Elect Bo Frizzell

Continued from 2C

Scotland County Board of Commissioners Stewartsville TwpThe 7-member Board-of-Commissioners sets the policy for the county, determining the strategic vision for the county, appoints a county manager, attorney and others to serve the county, adopts ordinances, including zoning, and establishes an annual budget, which includes setting the tax rate and calling bond referendums. Commissioners serve 4-year terms.

Tim IveyParty: RepAge: 52Mailing Address: 808 W CHURCH ST LAURINBURG, NC 28352Contact Phone: (910) 280-7240Position/philosophy statement: retired from Banking

Questions:Q: What experience and qualities do you feel you bring to this office?

A: I have over 25 years in Executive Management, in very large Corporations. Most recently i was the VP of the Executive Office For JP Morgan Chase. Handling a vast array of problems, and issues Country and Worldwide. I have extensive budget management experience as well, managing budgets in my areas for over 250,000,000.00.

Q: What is the most important issue the Scotland County Board of Commissioners will have to address in the next 4 years? A: Reduction in the Tax rate for all citizens, and developing New business to the area, of all forms.

Q: What do you plan to do to stimulate economic development and job creation in Scotland County and how will it be financed? A: Attractive offers to business’s to come here, in the way of tax breaks and incentives. All driven by there performance, in hiring and expanding here.

Q: Do you believe the “Scotland School Floor” funding law is a good public investment in education for Scotland County? If yes, explain why? If no, what adjustments would you propose? A: It is Not a good investment. Being the only county in the state with this mandate, it is hindering our ability to reduce our overall tax rate. There is no incentive for the

school system to do anything reduce cost, or even manage there cost, as they see this as a “slush” fund, they will get every year. I would never say we should defund schools, BUT we have to get this under control or this county can not survive like it is going.

Q: How important to you is building consensus within the Scotland County Board of Commissioners?A: A consensus would be a good thing for the commissioners, IF they are all willing to work together. Having a consensus in appearance only does us no good in Scotland County.

Q: Do you support restrictions on the carry and use of firearms in public areas such as parks and community centers where the primary users are children and youth? Why or why not? A: In some Public areas yes, But licensed responsible firearm carriers are not a threat to our children or public spaces. If anything they are a deterrent to those that may do harm to others.

Carol McCallParty: DemAge: 68Mailing Address: 13760 HERITAGE DR LAURINBURG, NC 28352Contact Phone: (910) 610-8216Position/philosophy statement: All citizens must have economic prosperity and opportunity to reach their own individual potential

Questions:Q: What experience and qualities do you feel you bring to this office? A: Scotland County resident for 45 years. Retired 30 yr county employee. Deep understanding of the complex social and economic issues that our citizens face. Knowledge of the relationship between county government and state government. I serve on the Board of Directors of the N.C. Assoc of County Commissioners that gives Scot Co a voice on legislative issues that impact our county. Also serve on the Eastpointe Behavioral Health Board of Directors. Ability to research and investigate all subjects and make an independent decision based on the facts. Committed to serve 100%.

Q: What is the most important issue the Scotland County Board of Commissioners will have to address in the next 4 years? A: In order for all citizens to reach their full potential, Scotland County must strive to

reduce poverty. Poverty is the number one indicator of social, health and educational outcomes. Scotland County’s rate of poverty is unacceptable and reducing it will bring the needed essential improvements and enhance the quality of life in our community.

Q: What do you plan to do to stimulate economic development and job creation in Scotland County and how will it be financed?A: The Scotland County Economic Development Corp is a vibrant entity in our county. It is a partnership between the county and the city. I serve on the Board of the Corp. Commissioners can provide the tax incentives for prospective clients and I support this financial support. I maintain a relationship with our state legislative members, State Sen Tom McInnis and Rep Garland Pierce. That relationship between county and state is essential in the development of economic development.

Q: Do you believe the “Scotland School Floor” funding law is a good public investment in education for Scotland County? If yes, explain why? If no, what adjustments would you propose?A: Since 2014 Scotland County and the Board of Education have used an inter local funding agreement and it is to extended through 2020. This agreement is the result of court ordered legal mediation that occurred in 2014. Scotland County funds the schools at an extraordinary level and its ability to pay remains at 98 out of 100. This funding agreement has facilitated a new dialogue between the two boards and provided a deeper understanding of the

financial challenges that both boards face every year. With this agreement in place, the general statute that is the funding formula becomes non essential. The agreement also lessens the adversarial relationship that can exist between the boards.

Q: How important to you is building consensus within the Scotland County Board of Commissioners?A: I believe that consensus is important in the implementation of Board decisions. I strive for there to be good discussion and education on all issues with all sides being explored. Consensus is not the same as a unanimous vote, and a split vote does not mean that consensus cannot be obtained. It is important that commissioners understand that they are one of seven and board governing is not individual governing. Consensus come after a healthy debate and understanding of the facts and I believe it is very important.

Q: Do you support restrictions on the carry and use of firearms in public areas such as parks and community centers where the primary users are children and youth? Why or why not?

A: On Jan 19, 2011 the Brd of Commissioners had a public hearing on the “concealed carry hand-gun” issue for playgrounds, athletic fields, facilities and swimming pools. The Board voted to allow concealed firearms in these areas. I voted in the minority on the subject. I support the individual right to possess firearms. The use and carry of firearms in public areas with children can create an unsafe and dangerous environment.

Continued from 3C

to teachers to rate satisfaction, and allow us to make changes when needed and I will if elected. To promote professional development, we must assess and continue to update rules, regulations, and policy to make the workspace more professional and acceptable. We will also have to bring the community in and take in ideals and suggestions to have the best outcome possible.

Q: Pre-Kindergarten is: [Importance Scale]A: 5

Q: Please explain your choice. A: Pre kindergarten is where the students begin learning. Education Is really important and we must keep in mind children are our next generation and will take our place one day. Studies show that students that are taught early tend to have high academics and have a well knowledge capacity that goes well into adulthood and it all starts at pre-K.

Q: What are the issues in recruiting and retaining qualified teachers? A: When it comes to retaining & recruiting qualified teachers, it takes a couple steps. First, we need to recruit them by giving teachers a reason to come here and teach our kids. All our teachers leave & go to other counties to teach for lower taxes & high prosperity or more salary pay. We must make them wanna come here. Continue to search for well qualified educators & give them offers. Retaining would be done by making sure we update our policies to support them and make them feel appreciated.

Summer WoodsideMailing Address: 17241 WAGRAM RD LAURINBURG, NC 28352Contact Phone: (910) 280-0036Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Dr-Summer-Gainey-Woodside-Scotland-County-School-Board-473351646098240Twitter: twitter.com/slgwoodsidePosition/philosophy statement: I am an advocate for public education. I believe improving educational outcomes for all students leads to stronger, improved outcomes for communities.

Questions:Q: What experience and qualities do you feel you bring to this office? A: “I have worked in Scotland County as a social worker for 20 years in hospice, oncology, mental health, and our school district. I am licensed as a school administrator and have a PhD in Specialized Education Services. I am now an Assistant Professor of Social Work at UNC Pembroke and serve as the Southeast Region Representative for the NC School Social Work Association. As a school board member I’ve served on the AIG, field trip, and liaison committees, and state and national education groups.

Q: What do you think is the most important responsibility of a school board member?A: School board members must be as informed as possible about the issues being discussed at both local and state levels so that they can make effective decisions locally and also be a voice for their districts’ needs with members of NC Legislature.

Q: What are the critical state funding needs for this county’s schools and how would you address those needs?A: We must continuously assess the safety needs of our schools and fund identified needs and gaps. We need funding to ensure students have access to social and emotional support services and early education options like PreK. We also need funding to address the teacher shortage being seen across the state of NC. I would advocate for needs through ongoing conversations with district leaders, county commissioners, and members of the NC Legislature and involvement in professional associations.

Q: How would you assess teacher satisfaction in the county and how would you promote professional development? A: Teacher satisfaction can be assessed through multiple measures like the NC Teacher Working Conditions Survey, local surveys in our district, teacher retention data, conversations with teachers, and visits to our schools. I support scheduling days for teachers to use for professional development and providing support for teachers to seek PD around their own interests. I am an advocate for reinstating master’s level pay to support those who further their college education.

Q: Pre-Kindergarten is: [Importance Scale]A: 5

Q: Please explain your choice.A: PreKindergarten offers social, emotional, and academic opportunities that help children prepare for kindergarten. The skills gained in PreK are valuable for all students. PreK helps close school-readiness gaps and improve long-term educational outcomes for children. It’s important that schools actively recruit children for PreK. I would like to see PreK expand in our district and would like to see more children able to participate in PreK.

Q: What are the issues in recruiting and retaining qualified teachers? A: Rural school districts face unique challenges for recruiting and retaining teachers. We have to develop creative programs to help recruit new teachers to our area. We need to advocate for better teacher pay on a state level and examine local teacher supplements. Districts have to provide classroom support and networking opportunities for beginning teachers while also ensuring all teachers feel supported in their daily teaching efforts in order to increase job satisfaction and retention rates.


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