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SunDAY AuguSt 5, 2012 L

FEDERAL, STATEU.S. SenateDemocratn Glenn A. Burkett (D)n Bill Nelson (D)

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Republicann George LeMieux (R)n Deon Long (R)n Connie Mack (R)n Mike McCalister (R)n Marielena Stuart (R)n Dave Weldon (R)

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U.S. House, District 3n James Jett (R)n Steve Oelrich (R)n Clifford B. Cliff Stearns (R)n Ted Yoho (R)

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U.S. House, District 4n Bob Black (R)n Ander Crenshaw (R)

n Deborah Katz Pueschel (R)Page 3

U.S. House, District 6n Heather Beaven (D)n Vipin Verma (D)n Richard Clark (R)n Fred Costello (R)n Ron Desantis (R)n William Billy Kogut (R)n Craig Miller (R)n Alec Pueschel (R)n Beverly Slough (R)

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State Senate, District 4n Aaron Bean (R)n Mike Weinstein (R)

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State House, District 11n Janet H. Adkins (R)n Cord Byrd (R)

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State House, District 17n Mike Davis (R)n Kim J. Kendall (R)n Ronald Doc Renuart (R)

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Public Defender, 4th circuitn William Charles ChuckFletcher (R)n Matthew Shirk (R)

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CLAY COUNTYClerk of the Courtn George Bush (R)n Larry Lancaster (R)n Tara Green (R)

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SheriffnMark Wilson (R)n Rick Beseler (R)

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Superintendent of Schoolsn Ben Wortham (R)n

Charles Van Zant Jr. (R)Page 5

Commissioner District 1n James Corbin Jr. (R)nWendell Davis (R)

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Commissioner District 3n Diane Hutchings (R)n Jim Renninger (R)nMarge Hutton (R)

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Commissioner District 5n Richard Russell (R)n Ronnie Robinson (R)

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School Board District 2

n Carla Crann Carol Studdard

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School Board District 3n Buck Burneyn Edward Smitty Huffmann Joseph B. Wiggins Sr.n Shirley (Tina) Bullock

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School Board District 4n Frank Farrelln Johnna McKinnonn Kenneth Francis

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DUVAL COUNTY

Circuit Court Judge, Group 1nMelina E. Buncomen Brian Davisn Donald B. Mairsn Greg Messoren Gerald L. Wilkerson

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Circuit Court Judge, Group 29n Alvin Wellington BarlownMark J. Borello

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Circuit Court Judge, Group 34n Suzanne Bassn John Merrett

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Clerk of the Circuit Courtn Bill Hodges (D)n Brenda Priestly Jackson (D)n Jim Fuller (R)n Ronnie Fussell (R)

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School Board, District 1n Martha Barrettn Cheryl Grymes

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School Board, District 3n Andrew Cordekn

Jack Danielsn Suzanne Jenkinsn Ashley Smith Juarez

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School Board, District 5n Pervalia Gaines-McIntoshn Chris Guerrierin Constance Connie Sands Hall

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School Board, District 7n Coree Cuffn Jason Fischern Lori Harrell Hersheyn Jon Heymannn Frank Swansonn John Turner

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County Court Judge, Group 12n Ruth Heplern Michelle Kaliln Rhonda Peoples-Waters

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Jacksonville Beach Mayorn Penny Christiann Charlie Lathamn Mitchell McCue

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Jacksonville BeachCity Council Seat 1 At Largen Christine Hoffmann John McGowann Fernando Meza

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NASSAU COUNTYProperty Appraisern A. Michael Mike Hickox (R)n Tammy C. Stiles (R)

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Sheriffn Bill Leeper (R)n Chris Hartley (R)n Garland Bubba Rhoden (R)n Steve Whitley (R)

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Commissioner, District 3n Pat Edwards (R)n Ronnie Stoots (R)

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Commissioner, District 5n Kenneth Bruce Overstreet (R)n Walter (Jr.) Boatright (R)

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School Board, District 2n Cari Ford Cahilln Gail G. Cookn John M. Pulice

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School Board, District 4n

Kimberly Joyce Fahlgrenn Richard Williamsn Russell L. Johnsonn Tracy Range-Ketchie

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PUTNAM COUNTYSheriffn Jed Bedenbaugh (D)n Reno Fells (D)n Jeff Hardy (D)n Scott I. Simmons (D)n Brent Coates (R)n Tom Williams (R)

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Tax Collectorn Christine Hammond (D)

n Leota D. Wilkinson (D)n Linda Myers (D)n Julianne Holmes-Young (R)n Brad Purcell (R)

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Superintendent of Schoolsn Cynthia O. Asia (D)n Jim Roach (D)n Tom Townsend (D)nMike Lisle Jr. (R)n Phyllis Criswell (R)

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Commission District 1n Jane Hamby (D)n Nancy S. Harris (D)

Jacksonville. com

Commission District 3

n Karl Flagg (D)n Kenny Eubanks (D)

Jacksonville. com

Commission District 5n Frank Cone Jr (D)n Carl Dennard (D)nWalton Pellicer II (D)n Larissa Ricketts (D)

Jacksonville. com

School Board District 2n David Bucklesn Lisa Parsons

Jacksonville.com

School Board District 3n Ralph Dallas Jr.n Terry Wright

Jacksonville. com

County Judge, Group 1n Joe Boatwright IIn Michael Woodwardn Tito S. Smith

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City Commissioner, Group 1n

James Norwood Jr.n Roberta M. CorreaCity Commissioner, Group 3n April Tiltonn Mary Lawson Brown

Jacksonville. com

ST. JOHNS COUNTYState attorneyn R.J. Larizzan Stasia Warren

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Commission, District 1n Brian Iannucci (R)n Cyndi Stevenson (R)

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Commission, District 3n John R. Ruggeri (R)n Ray Arthur Quinn (R)n William (Bill) A. McClure (R)

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Commission, District 5n Alan Kelso (R)n Joseph (Ken) Bryan (R)n Rachael L. Bennett (R)

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School Board, District 2n Ronald Lovon Staffordn Tommy Allen

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School Board, District 5n Gary McMahonn Patrick Thomas Canan

n Tom RiversPage 12

St. Augustine Commission,Seat 1n Bruce Maguiren Deltra L. Longn Errol D. Jonesn Roxanne Horvath

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More online

For extended candidateresponses and addirionalquestions and answers,go to Jacksonville.comsVoter Guide

early voting

Election Day is Tuesday,Aug. 14. Early voting continuesthrough Saturday at thefollowing locations. Page 2

IN THEIR OWN WORDS: FEDERAL, StAtE AnD LocAL cAnDiDAtE PREviEwS inSiDE

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AUGUST 5, 2012 THE TIMES-UNION L-7

voter guide

Suzanne BaSSAge: 60Education:B.A., EmoryUniversity;J.D., Universityof RichmondFamily:Husband, Fred (19 years);daughter, HelenPrevious elected offices:NoneQfs: My Martindale-Hubble AV peer rating forhighest ethical standards andlegal ability; my 30+ years of

state and federal court roomexperience as both a formerprosecutor and criminaldefense attorney; my FloridaSupreme Court certificationas a Circuit Family Mediator;my experience as an adjunctprofessor at Florida CoastalSchool of Law; and my 20+years of owning and operatingmy own private practice.Most important issue: Didnot respond

John MerrettAge: 51Education:Bishop KennyHigh School;bachelorsdegree,JacksonvilleUniversity; Florida StateUniversity College of LawFamily: Wife, Susan (29years); sons, Elijah, JacobPrevious elected offices:Elected Circuit Court Judge in2006.Qfs: Presided over

innumerable cases, includingevery kind of Circuit Courtcase. Hired by Ed Austin andworked over six years as anAssistant State Attorney.Conducted over 100 jurytrials. Worked for 3 yearsin the Special OperationsUnit, supervising electronicsurveillance and prosecutingorganized crime. Privatepractice for 13 years.Most important issue: After

more than 25 years in thejustice system, including thelast six as a judge, I knowswhat it takes. Whether itwas my years working forEd Austin or my 13 years inprivate practice or my last sixas a judge, I have experiencein every kind of Circuit Courtcase. You are electing a trial

judge and the demands ofjustice require someone withthe experience and dedicationto perform that task. Everyperson who steps into thecourtroom deserves to be on

an equal footing and to betreated with the same dignityand respect. I understandthe proper role of a judgeand will always follow the lawand Constitution. If elected, Iwill uphold the law as writtenand never legislate from thebench.

alvin WellingtonBarloW, Sr.Age: 51Education:Raines HighSchool;bachelors andJ.D., Universityof FloridaFamily: Wife, Cassandra (24years); children, Keisha, AlvinJr., and AlannaPrevious elected offices:NoneQualifications: The strongestqualifications I have to hold

and be very successful inthis office are my 27 yearsof experience practicinglaw in two states in multipledisciplines of law, intelligence,mental toughness and moralconviction. I am also doggedlycommitted to providingequal justice under the lawto every person subject tothe courts jurisdiction. It ismy view that only the factsand the applicable law shouldmatter, not the litigantspersonal attributes, issues orcharacteristics unless they area central factor in the matterbefore the bar of justice. Ihave consistently acted as aconsensus builder in society,

often serving as a mediatorbetween warring factions ofvarying races, cultures andpersuasions.Most important issues: The

most important issues in thiscampaign are the ability (orinability) of the newly elected

judge to be completely fairto everyone and to optimallyfunction in this very importantoffice from day one. Becausecircuit judges handle a widevariety of cases in both civiland criminal disciplines ofthe legal profession, the next

judge in line to take officeshould not just be willing butready and, most importantly,fully capable of handling

just about any type of case

litigants seeking legal redresswould present to the court. I

MarkBorelloAge: 49Family: Wife,Jacqueline(23 years),children: Michelle, Katherine,Matthew, ZacharyPrevious elected offices:NoneQualifications: I have servedthe people of our communityfor over 25 years as anAssistant State Attorney,fighting for the rights of crimevictims, and rising to becomeone of the top prosecutors

in the state. I have been aDirector in the office for 14years, and most recentlyserved as the Director ofCircuit Court. I have the most

courtroom, supervisory, andadministrative experienceof the two candidates in theGroup 29 race. I have beenmaking tough decisions asa prosecutor for a quartercentury, and am ready to sitas a Circuit Judge from dayone. I have earned the trustand respect of the peoplewho know the candidatesand the justice system thebest, and that is why theoverwhelming majority ofleaders in the community whohave endorsed in this race,

are supporting me.Most important issues: Ibelieve that we need judgeswho will be fair, but whounderstand that the roleof the judiciary is to beimpartial, and not with anysort of agenda. That a judgesrole is to protect and upholdthe constitution, and toprovide justice for all of ourcitizens. Circuit judges holda great deal of power andresponsibility in our system.They can take someoneshouse, their children, andeven their life. Thus, it iscritical to put people inthose positions who haveearned the respect and trust

of the citizens who knowthem the best. As a bottomline, the major issues as Isee it are experience, trust,temperament, and character.

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ruth ann heplerAge: 46

Education:Bachelorsdegree,University ofMissouri; J.D.,University ofFloridaFamily: Wife, Carey (21years); daughters Janie,Patti, SallyPrevious elected offices:NoneQualifications: I am themost experienced candidatein the race. My legal careerincludes 13-plus years atthe Public Defenders Office(including almost eightyears in county court);more than three years

in my own solo practicehandling criminal defense,family law, adoptions,

juvenile delinquency anddependency, domesticviolence injunctions,guardianships, and generalcivil litigation; and morethan four years with mycurrent law partner, MikeSullivan, handling SocialSecurity disability claims andcriminal defense. I serve onthe Committee on StandardJury Instructions in CriminalCases, to which I wasappointed by the SupremeCourt in 2009.Most important issues:With respect to issuesthat are likely to comebefore the court, judicialcandidates are not permittedto make pledges, promises,or commitments thatare inconsistent with theimpartial performanceof the adjudicative dutiesof the office. Judicialcandidates also shall actin a manner consistent withthe impartiality, integrity,and independence of the

judiciary. These provisionsof the Code of JudicialConduct are interpretedbroadly, and accordingly I donot believe that it would beappropriate to answer this

question.

Michelle kalilAge: 38

Education:Bachelorsdegree, J.D.,University ofFloridaFamily:Husband, Darin (6 years);son, MatthewPrevious elected offices:NoneQualifications: I am themost experienced candidaterunning for this office. I havespent the majority of mycareer in the courtroom. Iveparticipated in more than 50

jury trials, and tried almostevery type of criminal case.I have had the opportunityto serve as a division chief

with the Fourth JudicialCircuits Public DefendersOffice which provided methe opportunity to serveas a mentor to many youngattorneys. As a county judge,I would preside over casesoften handled by youngprosecutors and publicdefenders. My experienceas a division chief, and wellseasoned trial attorney haveprepared me well for thisrole.Most important issues:One of the weaknesses Isee with the current systemis the inconsistency thatoften remains in terms ofsentencing. I have spokenwith many lawyers and

judges who agree thatwhat most attorneys desiremost from our bench ispredictable application ofthe law by our judges. Inmy experience with morethan 50 jury trials I haveseen that many times how

justice is served dependson which judge you appearbefore. I think that, for themost part, we have a verystrong judiciary. However,I believe our system couldbe improved with moreconsistency in terms offollowing the law andapplicable sentences.

rhonda peopleS-WaterS

Age: 38Education:Bachelorsdegree, FiskUniversity/VanderbiltUniversity; J.D., University ofFloridaFamily: Single; daughter,JasminePrevious elected offices:NoneQualifications: I have adiverse legal backgroundencompassing criminaland civil law. I served asa division chief for bothRepeat Offender Courtsduring my tenure at thePublic Defenders Office.

I earned the Trial Godaward along with severalother recognitions and hadmore than 45 jury trials. Iam well-versed in the civilarena as well. In addition,to some outstanding workin a notable civil privatefirm, I have run my own lawfirm for several years. Foryears now, I have litigatedand negotiated a significantnumber of personal injurycases. I have diligentlyhandled hundreds of casesinvolving the civil practice oflaw. I also bring widespreadexperience in the areasof family, probate, smallclaims, and dependencylaw. The Fraternal Orderof Polices endorsement ofme, considering that I havebeen on the opposite side forthirteen years indicates thatI am duly qualified and willfollow the law.Most important issues:Proven leadership and a trueheart for service are greatfactors in this campaign.I have exhibited immenseleadership in the Jacksonvillecommunity. I served asa Jacksonville City EthicsCommissioner for years,where I recently chairedthe Open Government andTransparency Committee.

I am an alumnus of thePolitical LeadershipInstitute sponsored by theJacksonville Chamber ofCommerce. I served as thePresident of D.W. PerkinsBar Association which washonored to receive the statechapter award under mypresidency.

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Brenda a. prieStlyJackSonAge: 45Education:Bachelorsdegree,GramblingState

University; masters,University of North Florida,J.D., University of FloridaCollege of LawFamily: Husband, DeAndre(24 years); children, Imani,Malik, Kalif, KyaPrevious elected office:Duval County School Board,2002-2010Qualifications: I believethat not only my experienceas an attorney and aformer teacher, but alsomy commitments to publicservice are my strongestqualifications. If elected theClerk of the Circuit Court, I willensure that we have a clerksoffice that is citizen/taxpayercentered and provides highquality services that areaccessible, accountable andefficient.Most important issues:Increasing digital usabilityfor the employees of theclerks office and the citizensin our community. Providingthe public with expandedaccess to the clerks officeand hands-on knowledgeabout the functions of theclerks office. Creating liaisonswith schools to increasethe civic engagement of orcommunitys young people.What management skillsor experience will I bring

to this office? I will bringmy experience as an eight-

year member of the DuvalCounty School Board andtwice chairman. In that role,I was one of seven memberscharged with the governanceand management oversightof a $1.7 billion budget.Also, I will bring my most

recent experience as specialadvisor and general counselat a small private college. Inthat role, I was a memberof the executive team andresponsible for restructuring,realignment and managementof a $2.6 million state grant,creating a senior staffexecutive review process,including both a mid-year andsummative review, creating, incollaboration with membersof senior staff, the collegepresidents five years goalsas aligned with the collegesstrategic plan, governmentalrelations work, and legaladvising. Lastly, I maintaineda private law practice for over15 years.

Bill hodgeSAge: 58Education:Bachelorsdegree,AmericanUniversity;masters,Florida State UniversityFamily: Wife, Connie (24years); sons, David, MarkPrevious elected offices:NoneQualifications: I havemore than two decades ofleadership experience servingthe city of Jacksonville,

including 17 years as ChiefAdministrative Officer of

the State Attorneys Officeunder Harry Shorstein. I haveeffectively and efficiently ledorganizations that serve thecitizens of Duval County. Mylifetime of public service evenincludes starting my careerafter graduating school in

the Clerk of Courts office inMarion County, Florida. Atthe State Attorneys Office,I am most proud of my workleading juvenile diversionprograms to help give ourkids more opportunities and abrighter future.Most important issues:I would make the officethe most technologicallyadvanced in the State ofFlorida by immediatelyputting in place a much moreuser-friendly website wherefolks could find forms, askfor assistance and get theinformation they need in aneasy-to-use and efficientmanner. I also intend to doaggressive public outreach toexplain the functions of theClerks office to the public andeducate our young peopleabout civics and the courtsystem. Finally, I would alsoresearch best practices fromaround the state and bringthose to our Clerks office.What management skills orexperience would you bringto the office? I was part ofthe management team at theState Attorneys office whereI was Chief AdministrativeOfficer in charge of leadinga complex organization ofmore than 300 employeesin three counties. I was also

a key advisor to Mayor AlvinBrowns transition team.

JiM FullerAge: 62Education:Bachelorsdegree,AviationManagement,Troy UniversityFamily: Wife, Barbara (40years); daughters, Amy,Mandy; six grandsonsPrevious electedoffices: State House ofRepresentatives, 1992-2000.

Clerk of Courts, 2000-presentQualifications: In the Navy andLegislature and now as ClerkIve had lots of experiencemanaging people and assets.In the Legislature, I wasAppropriations Chairman over13 agency budgets.Most important issues:To continue the seamless,paperless electronic process inthe courthouse. Next I want totie in the Jacksonville SheriffsOffice, Public Defenders Officeand the State Attorneys Officewhile continuing efficientcustomer service and costmanagement.

How would you deal withbudget cuts? I have broughtthe Clerks Office from aDOS system in 2000 to apaperless court system today.We were the first of the largecounties to go paperless in thecourtroom. I have the lowestcost per case of all 67 countiesin the state.

ronnie FuSSellAge: 55Education:

Attended FCCJFamily: Wife,Rebecca; son,ChandlerPreviouselected offices: I served sixyears on the City Council AtLarge, Group 1Qualifications: The experienceI gained in customer-orientedprivate business coupledwith the knowledge andexperience of serving in boththe legislative and executivebranches of governmentmakes me unique. I havea working knowledge ofgovernment and I understand

the importance of efficiencywhile caring for the customer.Most important issues: 1) Iwill work to improve our publicservice work environment,which will allow us asemployees to better servethe citizens of Duval County.2) I will work to improveefficiencies by working withother branches of governmentto create a more accessiblestreamlined process. 3) Iwill continue to enhance

technology to increasespeed and accessibility forcustomers, employees and

jurors.What management skillsor experience would youbring to the office? I bringmy experience in both thepublic and private sectors willserve the community and theoffice of the Clerk of the Courtwell. This experience includesleading an organization withmore than 800 members,running my own business andserving for six years on theCity Council, including a termas City Council President.

republiCan

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DeMoCraT

St. Jhs Cty Stt atty

r.J. larizzaAge: 54Education: n/aFamily: Wife, Trish; twochildren, one grandchild

Previous elected office:State attorney since 2008

No other information available; go toJacksonville.com for update

StaSia WarrenAge: 62Education: n/aFamily: Widow; six children,eight grandchildren

Previous elected office:Volusia County judge, 1990-2012

No other information available; go toJacksonville.com for update

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AUGUST 5, 2012 THE TIMES-UNION L-9

voter guide

Duval Couny

School BoadDiStriCt 3

Andrew ThomAsCordekAge: 47Education:Bachelors,Universityof Florida;U.S. NavyFlight school.Family: Wife, Carolyn (21years), children Patrick,Chelsea, MatthewPrevious elected offices:None

Qualifications:Experience, integrity,leadership, commitment,and accessibility. As a fulltime teacher in the publicschool system at MandarinHigh School and then as asubstitute from September2011, I know and understandthe day to day challengesthat our children, parentsand teachers are facing.Most important issues:Financial accountability,accessibility andcommunication withconstituents, lackof leadership andaccountability from theSchool board to the

principals, not addressingthe needs of the businesscommunity in terms ofmanpower training, andchanging the perception ofour neighborhood schools.I intend to change howbusiness is done at theschool board.How would you deal withbudget cuts? We can notcontinue to exist with achampagne taste on a beerbudget attitude. In ourhouse, we dont spend morethan we bring in. We save fora rainy day, and do withoutif we cant afford it. Gee ...what a concept to send tothe rest of society.

What should be thenumber one priority of thenew superintendent? Ournew superintendent needsto be a leader who caninspire the teachers. Thereis no doubt in my mind thatthe people who work for theschool board and can do themost to make a differenceare the teachers.

JACk dAnielsAge: 62Education:MastersDegree anda bachelorsdegree

Family:MarriedPrevious elected office:NoneQualifications: Mastersdegree from a teacherscollege, Employmentexperience as a schoolassistant principal and as aschool teacher. Experienceas a director of a drugeducation and treatmentfacility/program forstudents.Most important issues:First and foremost, we mustestablish a fundamentallearning environmentin every school. Everycompetent educator knows

that scientific/educationalresearch has proven thateven fundamental educationcannot adequately takeplace in the absence ofa fundamental learningenvironment. Far too manyof our schools do not havea fundamental learningenvironment.How would you deal withbudget cuts? Our schoolsystem clearly has adequatefinancial and humanresources. Therefore, itsabsolutely unnecessary toraise taxes or cut services.What is necessary, however,is for our school systemto responsibly utilize its

resources.What should be thenumber one priority ofthe new superintendent?To work closely with all ofthe school board membersto responsibly utilizethe financial and humanresources of our schoolsystem.

suzAnne JenkinsAge: 55ecat:EnglewoodHigh SchoolFamily:Husband,Marshall(35 years); children Shyla,Bryan, SarahPrevious electedoffices: District 4 CityCouncilwoman, 1999-2007Qualifications: I servedon the 19 memberJacksonville City Councilfor two terms 1999-

2007. Ive led City CouncilCommittees, neighborhoodassociations, PTAs, schooladvisory councils and myown business. I rose to aleadership position of vicepresident of the City Councilin 2001. My ability to identifyissues and build consensusto achieve solutions is anasset I bring to the schoolboard.Most important issues:I believe it should be a

multi-level approach. Thereis no silver bullet to solvethe issues facing our schoolsystem. I am identifyingthree critical strategies thatwe should focus on in the2013 school year. 1. Increasesupport for academicachievement and vocationaleducation in middle andhigh schools. 2. Ramp upthe districts academic rigor.Duval should meet or exceedthe ACHIEVE standards,in order to yield a vastlyimproved readiness forpost-secondary educationand our globally competitiveworkforce.How would you deal with

budget cuts? I want totake a hard look at facilitiesand administration to seewhere we can consolidatefunctions and facilitiesinto one building wherefeasible. We have under-utilized buildings thatcould be sold and put backon the tax rolls and couldserve as redevelopmentand revitalization forneighborhoods which wouldadd to our tax base.What should be thenumber one priority ofthe new superintendent?I would prefer aSuperintendent who isa visionary leader. A

candidate who can point topast successes, especiallyin schools that haveexperienced the kinds offailure we are currentlyexperiencing in some of ourschools.

Ashley smiTh JuArezAge: 33Education:Bachelorsdegree withhonors,VanderbiltUniversityFamily: Husband, AlexPrevious elected offices:None

Qualifications: I have adegree in education. I havebeen a classroom teacherin both public and privateschools. I was a soccer andtrack coach. I worked indropout prevention, servingstudents in 13 Duval CountyPublic schools. I partneredwith principals, teachers,parents, community mentorsand most importantlystruggling studentsthroughout the city. I nowlead a foundation focused oneducation policy reform.Most important issues:Public schools are thecornerstone of ourcommunity. The success of

our schools affects everyfacet of quality of life. Themost important thing thatthe Duval County SchoolBoard does is to hirethe superintendent andcharge him/her with theright job description. I willbuild a trusting, collegialrelationship with that leaderand will hold him/heraccountable.How would you deal withbudget cuts: There areefficiencies that can beimplemented that will notrequire raising taxes orcutting student services.The district contractedwith Education Resource

Strategies, a consultingfirm, to do a year-long auditof expenses. DCPS hasalready spent hundreds ofthousands of dollars for thisreport; it should be used.What should be thenumber one priority ofthe new superintendent?A Superintendent must bea strong leader. He/shemust make bold decisionsto improve studentoutcomes, even if thatmeans significant change.The Superintendent mustbe someone who will put astake in the ground and beheld accountable for his/herdecisions without excuses.

Jacksonvlle Beach Cy Councl Sea 1 A-Lage

Jon mCGowAnAge: 33.Education:Bachelorof arts,University ofFloridaFamily:SinglePrevious elected offices:NoneQualifications: I was bornand raised here in Jacksonvilleand I have a vested interest inthis community succeeding.

I own a business here at thebeach. I met my fiance here,we got engaged here, we willget married here next May,and we will raise our familyhere. I understand the issues.I followed Jacksonville Beachpolitics long before I consideredrunning for political office.Most important issues: MakingJacksonville Beach family friendlyagain. In the late 1980s and early1990s when Jacksonville Beachwas considered a blighted area,the focus of the city was simply toget people to the beach.How would you deal withbudget cuts? We are notat a point that we must cut

essential services to reducethe budget. What we must dois cut unnecessary spending onpet projects and consultants.How would you deal withthe ongoing parking issueswith some paid areas?If the community wantspaid parking I would onlysupport the continuationof paid parking if three

issues are addressed: Wemust implement it in allpublic parking in the centralbusiness district and in allof Jacksonville Beach east ofFirst Street. We must switchto a metered system thatcharges by the hour. We mustfind a way for our residentsto be able to visit our beachwithout being charged.

ChrisTine ChrishoffmAnAge: 35

Education:Bachelorsdegree,Universityof Florida;masters,University ofNorth FloridaFamily: n/aPrevious elected offices:NoneQualifications: I bring astrong skill set that combinesprofessional and philanthropicleadership, my educationalbackground and my longevitywithin the community. I haveserved in leadership rolesin non-profit organizations,most recently as the executivedirector of the AmericanCancer Society in JacksonvilleBeach and on the board oftrustees as the fundraisingchair for Beaches EmergencyAssistance Ministry.Most important issues:Ensuring that JacksonvilleBeach is a safe place to live,work and visit. Providing a

business-friendly environmentthat attracts and retainsstrong businesses.How would you deal withbudget cuts? While the CityCouncil is going to have tomake some tough budgetarydecisions, I will not support atax increase.How would you deal with theongoing parking issues withsome paid areas? We need tobalance the need to accommodateour visitors, particularly forspecial events, with the needs

of our small businesses and thequality of life for our residents.That would include consideringany or all of the followingsolutions: Parking kiosks ormeters; Parking rates that aredetermined by length of time, timeof day, time of year, etc., instead ofa flat rate; A parking garage; Freeparking for Jacksonville Beachresidents or the opportunity topurchase a reduced price decal orpass; Increased parking fees forspecial events.

fernAndo m. mezAAge: 28.Education: Bachelors inpolitical

science,minor ininternationalstudies.Family:Single.Previous elected offices: n/aQualifications: I work wellunder pressure. I have greatpeople skills an electedofficial might need when

dealing with residents andbusiness owners. I havecommon sense, dedication,passion, and motivation toguide this community to aforward, positive direction. Inaddition, a leader needs morethan just qualifications; it alsoneeds an open mind as theymight face many differenttypes of issues and problemsin a community and that iswhat I have, an open mind.Most important issues:Public Safety, the parking

issue, crowd control duringthe weekends, holidays, orfestivals, and having morefiscal responsibility.How would you deal withbudget cuts? Raising taxesduring this critical time in oureconomy is a burden the citizensmust face, along with thebusinesses it will affect. If I wasto cut services, I would cut non-essential services first.How would you deal withthe ongoing parking issueswith some paid areas? Myproposal would be to keepthe paid parking we alreadyhave, add meters to the centralbusiness district that will have

a time regulation during theday. Assign decals to Beachesresidents, business owners, andemployees so they wouldnthave to pay for parking. Assigncertain areas for residentand visitor parking aroundthe downtown area and use aportion of that revenue to assistwith any cost the police or firedepartment might need.

Nassau Couny Sheff

rEPUBLiCAN

Chris hArTleyAge: 41

Education: DelgadoCommunity College,Houston MarineAcademy, Sante FeCollege, FCCJ, St. Augustine TechnicalCenter, University of FloridaFamily: Wife, Shelea; daughter Kylie, sonBrayden, daughter GracelynPrevious elected offices: NoneQualifications: I am a former localdeputy and I have the most hands-onsuccessful business experience of anycandidate.Most important issues: To eradicatethe department of any Good Old Boypolitics, to offer fair and equal serviceto all residents regardless of who theyare and to lead by example in orderto establish an office of integrity andrespect. How would you deal with budget

cuts? Neither, I have formulated a planto reduce the budget while increasingservices. I have guaranteed the resultswith my paycheck. How would youdeal with budget cuts? An immediatepartnership with the Fernandina BeachPolice Department and the local StateAttorneys Office.How would you deal with budget cuts?Did not respond

GArlAnd BuBBArhodenAge: 38Education: West NassauHigh School, LakeCity Law EnforcementAcademyFamily: Wife, Kelly, 20 years; daughters,Chelsea, Bryce, Jayde, Storm, Raeli;grandson, BrantleyPrevious elected offices: NoneQualifications: My experience inlaw enforcement has allowed me tobe an active participant throughoutNassau County. I have been there onthe community streets and in homesas a Deputy on patrol, when law

enforcement was needed. I have workedthe neighborhoods where I was a K-9

Officer detecting drugs, working cases ofburglaries and domestic problems. I amnow an active detective in the criminalinvestigations division.Most important issues: We need to bebringing up the morale of the employees,rebuild working relationships with otheragencies, retain qualified employees,restructure to a working command staffthat leads by example and do all thiswhile maintaining a small budget.How would you deal with budget cuts?Its not practical to cut the Sheriffs Officebudget when other budgets need to becut first. The budget can be broughtinto check with restructuring of thedepartment, to free up personal andputting them in the right places.How would you improve theSheriffs Office? Staffing in patrol and

investigations will be an absolute priority!We must do those things that we aremandated to do first and foremost. Thestaffing can be helped by reorganizingthose personnel already in place.

Bill leeperAge: 58Education: FernandinaBeach High School;associates degree,Florida CommunityCollege at Jacksonville; bachelorsdegree, Columbia College-Missouri,Florida Highway Patrol AcademyFamily: wife, Emma (30 years); son,Jordan, daughter, ChelseaPrevious elected offices: Former citycommissioner and two-term mayor ofFernandina BeachQualifications: I bring over 35 yearsof professional law enforcementexperience to the table. This combinedwith having served as a two-termMayor of Fernandina Beach, being aretail business owner for 28 years indowntown Fernandina Beach and myextensive education gives me the unique

perspective and skills sets to help ensurethe success of the men and women of the

Nassau County Sheriffs Office.Most important issues: 1) Addressingdrug problems, specifically prescriptiondrug fraud and abuse. 2) Improving officertraining standards and qualifications.How would you deal with budgetcuts? I have proposed a citizens taxwatch advisory committee to help lookfor waste and ways to improve the useof public safety dollars. As Mayor ofFernandina Beach I had a reputationfor questioning spending decisions andbeing frugal with taxpayer dollars. I amcommitted to a top to bottom review ofthe agency and af ter this review.How would you improve the SheriffsOffice? The first step is to conduct anindependent top to bottom review ofthe agency, seeking recommendationsfor efficiencies, redundant practices

and agency needs. I will look for outsideprofessionals to help ensure the qualityand accuracy of this review. Before wemake changes we need to have the factsand my plan will be based on the needs ofthe agency.

sTeve whiTleyAge: 59Education: Paxon HighSchool; criminal justicestudies, FCCJFamily: Wife, Carolyn(11 year); children, Mitch, Mike, Josh,Matthew, HollyPrevious elected office: NoneQualifications: 35 years certifiedlaw enforcement officer, held rank oflieutenant, sergeant in patrol divisions.Most important issues: Line itembudget, restore image of sheriffs office,improve department efficiency.How would you deal with budget cuts :I will make as many cuts as possible, but Iwill not endanger the safety of the publicor the deputies.How would you improve the sheriffsoffice? n/a

Jacksonvlle Beach Mayo

penny ChrisTiAnAge: 68Education:Bachelorsdegree,VanderbiltUniversity;masters,University of TennesseeFamily: Husband, Sam (36years); children, Blair, AmandaPrevious elected offices:2004-present City of Jackso-nville Beach City CouncilQualifications: A strong recordof protecting the character ofour city, reducing crime, andmaintaining a healthy business

environment during theeconomic downturn.Most important issues:The most important issues inthis election are experiencedleadership, protecting our qualityof life, and carrying out the visionand values of our citizens.How would you deal withbudget cuts? Voters cansee my approach to this.We have repeatedly cut thebudget to avoid tax increaseswhile maintaining essentialservices.What do you propose asthe best way to deal withthe ongoing parking issueswith some paid areas inJacksonville Beach? The

paid lots eliminated theloiterers, freed up parking forbusiness patrons, and fundedon-site security. Im opposedto banning non-residentsfrom parking east of 3rdStreet because it will kill ourdowntown businesses. I haveproposed allowing residents topark for free in the paid lots.

ChArlie lAThAmAge: 52Education:FletcherHigh School;bachelorsdegree,

University ofFloridaFamily: Wife, Kathryn;daughters, Katie, KellyPrevious elected offices: NoneQualifications:1) Former NavalLt. Commander, 2) Successfulcorporate officer (1996-2003),3) Successful business owner,4) Member, Legislative SteeringCommittee (EnvironmentalIndustries A ssociations).Most important issues: 1)Crime/Public Safety, 2) Localeconomy is in peril. We mustimprove commercial tax basethrough economic development.How would you deal withbudget cuts? I would borrowagainst the reserve funds for

the initial capital shortfall,and then aggressively createeconomic developmentprograms to stimulate localbusiness and increase thecommercial tax base.What do you propose asthe best way to deal withthe ongoing parking issueswith some paid areas inJacksonville Beach? My planwould provide free parking forall Jacksonville Beach residentsand their guests. Visitors wouldbe served with remote parkingareas and trolleys to all beachaccess and commerce points.

miTChell l mCCueAge: 44Education:Some collegeFamily: Single;daughter,MorganPreviouselected offices: NoneQualifications: I have worked ingovernment for over 20 years andwas born in Jacksonville beach.Most important issues: 1)Restoring the laid-back lifestyle we once had and makinginteraction with our governmenteasier. 2) Making Jacksonvillebeach a green city by becominggolf cart friendly. 3) Support andhelp promote local business.

4) Helping to save the Ferry inanyway we can. 5. Bringing backthe Christmas festivities andFourth of July fireworks!How would you deal withbudget cuts? As far as reducingbudget, each department headneeds to look long and hard atreducing frivolous costs or nonbeneficial spending. I also believethat less employee attrition willassist in any potential deficits ofthe budget.What do you propose as thebest way to deal with theongoing parking issues withsome paid areas in JacksonvilleBeach? Parking has been an

issue for many years and isnothing new. We can utilizeforward thinking for rooftopparking of newly constructedbuildings. I also believe we shouldinstall parking meters east ofthird street for all guest andallow residents/ business ownersto park with yearly passes. Ifwe go to a event in downtownJacksonville we have two options,1) Pay at a parking meter. 2)Pay at a private parking lot. Weare limited with parking due tothe new vision of the downtowndistrict and the 5 million dollarsthat was just infused to redoingFirst Street once again.

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AUGUST 5, 2012 THE TIMES-UNION L-11

voter guide

Democrat

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Cynthia asiaAge: 61Education: Masters inEducational Leadership,Florida A&M University;bachelors in ElementaryEducation/ Early Childhood

Education, Bethune-CookmanUniversityFamily: n/aPrevious elected offices:NoneQualifications: With awealth of experience asan educational leader formore than 35 years and acommitment to lead withintegrity, professionalism anda common sense approach,I want to make a positiveimpact on students and allemployees. I bring 35 yearsas a successful leader ineducation in Putnam County.I have a proven successrecord as a classroomteacher, adjunct professor for

Bethune-Cookman University,guidance counselor, principalof two schools, coordinatorand director of ElementaryEducation and area directorof Instruction.

Most important issues:Student achievement,employee morale, curriculumand accountability. Employeemorale is extremely low. Iwill provide opportunities foremployees to communicate

and offer ideas that will havea positive impact on studentachievement.

Jim RoaChAge: 59Education: Masters degreein Educational Leadershipfrom Nova University;bachelors in Education fromNorthern Illinois UniversityFamily: Wife, Vicki (41 years);son Patrick, daughter JamiePrevious elected offices:NoneQualifications: 33 yearsin education with provensuccess leading BeasleyMiddle School to its only Brating the schools history.

When principal at BeasleyMiddle School, we had thelowest incident of violencein the county. Positionsheld: teacher, coach, dean ofstudents, assistant principal,

principal for 7 years, and adistrict level administrator.Lived in Palatka for 25 years.Most important issues:Morale of employees is atan all-time low due to fearand threat tactics by the

current superintendent.Mandated curriculum fromdistrict office which is notworking such as Success forAll Reading program andthe Math Power Teachingprogram. Lack of traditionalVocational Programs for non-college-bound students.

tom townsendAge: 52Education: Associatesdegree, St. Johns River StateCollegeFamily: Wife, Denise;children Sarah, Duncan,Emma.Previous elected offices:Putnam County School Board

2004-2008, Putnam CountySchool superintendent2008-presentQualifications: My strongestqualification is my record,a record which includes the

highest graduation rate in7 years and two B highschools for the first timeever. The most improveddistrict in Florida in algebraand more than 1,800students are participating

in after-school programs.We have cleaner schoolswhich are tops in the statein energy efficiency andstatewide recognitionin leadership and fullaccreditation. More parentsare involved in our schoolsthan ever and our teachersalaries rank 15th in thestate.Most important issues:This campaign is aboutchoosing a direction. Willwe continue to take boldsteps in holding one anotheraccountable for delivering aquality education, embracingtechnology, providingprofessional development

for our teachers, and beingefficient with taxpayersmoney or will we return tothe failed policies of thepast?

rePublican

Phyllis CRiswellAge: 57Education: Bachelors degree inEducation, University of Florida;masters in Elementary Education,Guidance and School Counseling, andEducational Leadership, University ofNorth Florida.Family: Single; daughters Julie, JillPrevious elected offices: NoneQualifications: I have 27 yearsexperience in the Putnam County SchoolSystem. I have been a teacher, guidancecounselor, assistant principal, principal,director of student services, and assistantsuperintendent. My education andexperience make me the most qualifiedand capable candidate for Superintendent

of Putnam County Schools.Most important issues: Studentachievement, budget issues, employeemorale.

miChael l. mike lisle, JR.Age: 42Education: M.S. in EducationalLeadership, Florida State University; B.S.in Management, Florida State UniversityFamily: Wife, Jennifer (18 years);children, Rachel, NoahPrevious elected offices: NoneQualifications: Im running forsuperintendent because I believe thatthe Putnam County School District needsa fresh perspective and a new voice aswe work together to meet the challenges

we face. My many years working ineducational systems at the local,regional and state levels has given methe experience necessary to provide theleadership our district needs as we seekto address our challenges in studentachievement, staff morale and systemicdevelopment.Most important issues: Improvingacademic achievement: Putnam Countyranks 56th in the state in academicachievement out of 67 districts. It isone of only 13 districts in the state notto earn an A or B letter grade in2010-11. Only two of our schools madeadequate yearly progress under No ChildLeft Behind in 2010-11. We can, andmust, do better.

Democrat

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ChRissy haRRellhammondAge: 41Education: AA, Bachelorsin accounting, MBAconcentration in accountingFamily: Divorced; daughters,Logan, MiaPrevious elected offices:NoneQualifications: My strongestqualifications for this officeare my education, experienceand love for my community.I have been auditinggovernmental entities and

nonprofits for the last fouryears, including PutnamCounty and its constitutionalofficers.Most important issues:Customer service, efficiency,continuous improvement,community service.

linda myeRsAge: 60Education: Bachelors andmasters degrees, Universityof FloridaFamily: Husband, Vernon(15 years); six children, ninegrandchildrenPrevious elected offices:County commissioner, 1998-2006

Qualifications: Thirty yearsof owning and operatingDunkin Donuts Store inPalatka, I understand thesuccess of great service tocustomers and 18 years as apracticing CPA, with my ownCPA firm. Knowledge workingwith tax laws and regulations.My eight years as countycommissioner in PutnamCounty introduced me to thediverse communities theirchallenges and solutions, butmost importantly, the citizens

I served.Most important issues: 1)Analyzing the new policiesand procedures to implementconcerning compliance withthe rewrite of the authorizinglegislation, Florida Statute197; 2) Working with taxcollector staff to continuallyimprove operations for bothefficiency of daily operationsand effective, timely serviceto our customers.

leota d. wilkinsonAge: 42

Education: Bachelors degree,Public Administration, FlaglerCollegeFamily: Husband, Eugene (24years); sons Shawn, Thomas,TimothyPrevious elected offices:NoneQualifications: My 27 yearscombined governmentaland private sector workexperience, along with myeducation, makes me themost well-rounded andqualified candidate. My15 years governmentalwork experience comesfrom St. Johns River WaterManagement District, whereI spent five years in the

Department of Finance andAccounting and 10 years inthe Division of Real EstateServices.Most important issues: 1)Uphold the constitutionalresponsibilities of the TaxCollector 2) Help improveperformance and customerservice and 3) Ensure theaccountability of the TaxCollectors office for thebenefit of the people.

rePublican

Julianne holmes-youngAge: 29Education: Bachelors degree,Stetson UniversityFamily: Husband, George; sonJacksonPrevious elected offices:NoneQualifications: Thefoundation I have in myunique education, the relevantbusiness experience I havegained over the past decadein a variety of managerialroles and my genuine desireto serve our community. Ihave been employed at BeckAutomotive Group over thelast decade. I am directlyresponsible for all aspects ofthe daily operations to includeaccounts payable, accountsreceivable, payroll, andrelated tax matters.Most important issues:Improving customer service.I will find ways to recapturelost revenue, increase officeefficiency and make theoffice more user-friendly.The Tax Collectors Officeexists to serve the citizensof Putnam County. Citizensshould expect, and undermy leadership will receive,friendly service with a senseof urgency.

BRad PuRCellAge: 50

Education: Bachelorsdegree, Business, Jacksonville

UniversityFamily: Wife, Katie (29 years);

sons Scott, GregPrevious elected offices:Putnam County commissioner,three terms; elected 2000, re-elected 2004 and 2008.Qualifications: I am anaccomplished and highlyqualified professional withalmost 30 years of private,public and industrial sectorexperience; a business leaderwith a strong backgroundin managing a very diverseworkforce and a wide-varietyof resources. And experiencein the boardroom, duringtough economic times,serving as a three-termPutnam County commissioner.As your elected leader, I amresponsible for establishingall organizational andadministrative policies,spending priorities managing a $102 millionbudget and 285 employees.Most important issues:To improve the delivery ofservice to our citizens tomake the tax office the mostefficient office in Florida.To assure all of your hard-earned tax dollars arecollected and distributed inaccordance with all applicablelaws lead the replacementof a needed upgrade of theoffices financial system. I willmake the transition seamless

and our team will be highlyqualified and capable.

GrouP 1

tito s. smithAge: 62Education: Associates,bachelors and J.D. degrees allfrom the University of Florida.Family: Wife, Vicky (39 years);children Lara, Travis.Previous elected offices:NoneQualifications: Memberof the Florida Bar and a

practicing attorney for 37years. I have experiencebefore all trial court levels,the Florida Supreme Court,most of the District Courts ofAppeal in Florida, the FederalDistrict Courts and FederalBankruptcy Courts. I did serve5 years as an assistant publicdefender with extensivecriminal trial experience.

miChael w. woodwaRdAge: 57Education: Associatesdegree, St. Johns RiverCommunity College (Palatka);bachelors, University of theState of New York; M.Ed.,University of North Florida;M.A., University of NorthFlorida; J.D., magna cumlaude, University of Florida.Family: MarriedPrevious elected offices:None

Qualifications: 1) My strongand broad-based educationalbackground has prepared meto deal with even the toughestlegal issues. 2) My 17 yearsof practicing law in PutnamCounty, representing myneighbors in local trial courtsand in state and federalappellate courts has preparedme to understand courtprocedures and administerthem properly and efficiently.

Joe BoatwRightAge: 40Education: Bachelorsdegree, University of Florida;J.D., the Catholic University ofAmerica, summa cum laude.Family: Wife, Tammy;daughters Lauren, Kate.Previous elected offices:NoneQualifications: I haveextensive trial experience andhave practiced both criminaland civil law. I have practicedlaw in Putnam County in boththe public and private sectors.As an assistant state attorney,I prosecuted thousandsof cases, helping keep thecommunity safe. As anattorney in private practice,I was privileged to representthe citizens of Putnam Countyin our courts.

P cy Jdg

Democrat

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Jed BedenBaughAge: 48Education: Associatesdegree, Vincennes University;Sante Fe Police AcademyFamily: Divorced; childrenLyndsey, Jerri Mae, Mit; onegrandchildPrevious elected offices:NoneQualifications: 21 yearsin criminal justice. He hasworked in different capacitiesfor the Crescent City PoliceDepartment, Palatka PoliceDepartment and the Putnam

County Sheriffs Office. Pastpositions include; correctionsdeputy, patrol deputy,school resource offi cer,evidence custodian, crimescene technician, uniformand supply officer and fleetmanager.Most important issues: Assheriff, my main focus willbe to improve the moraleof the officers and supportstaff. All the employees ofthe Sheriffs Office are whatmake the Sheriffs Office. Itis my intention to improvethe quality of services,by improving the tone ofthe Sheriffs Office andreassuring the staff that their

work matters. I will insist ona sense of pride and belief inthis organization.What changes to thedepartments operationwill the citizens of PutnamCounty see first? Thetone at the top will bethat of dedication to dutyand knowing the value of allemployees those who haveexperience, those who pursueprofessional development andthose who demand excellencein their work. Recognition,appropriate promotion,reasonable reward and staffopportunities will be the basisfor improving morale at theSheriffs Office. Improved

morale will do more thanimprove the lives of theseindividuals it will improvethe bottom line and the publicservices. Less turnover andquality improvement will bethe most measurable (andimmediate) returns of myfocus.

Reno FellsAge: 46Education: Masters degree,Public Administration,University of North Florida;bachelors degree, BusinessAdministration.Family: Wife, Angelia;children, Reno Jr., Reniqua,Josh, Renada, Remahn, JustinPrevious elected offices:NoneQualifications: Advancedtraining in management,leadership, policing andcommunity involvement. I

wrote and managed the city ofPalatkas Weed and Seed Grantand coordinated over 50 localstate and federal resourcestoward reducing crime in thenorth side of Palatka. I havestrategic planning experienceMost important issues:County currently ranks thesecond worse in Florida percapita for crime, overcrowdingin the Putnam County Jail,and a disconnect between theSheriff, the Sheriffs Office andthe community.How would you deal withbudget cuts? The sheriff hasno taxing authority in PutnamCounty; however, I think weshould always try to avoid

raising taxes when many ofour citizens are struggling tomake ends meet. The CountyCommission has providedthe sheriff with the financialresources to operate. Thesheriff has to have the abilityto translate those resourcesinto quality law enforcementservices and the care, custodyand control of inmates.What changes to thedepartments operationwill the citizens ofPutnam County seeover first? They will see amore strategic approachto policing, budgeting andmanagement. They willexperience a sheriff that is

interactive and hands on withthe citizens. A heightenedlevel of professionalismand courtesy of deputies,correctional personnel,dispatchers and civilian staff.Also a community-oriented lawenforcement and correctionsagency.

JeFF haRdyAge: 46Education: Associatesdegree, Vincennes University,cum laudeFamily: Wife, Susan (25years)Previous elected offices:Putnam County sheriffQualifications: Myexperience. I not only have24 years of law enforcementexperience but I have a first-hand working knowledge ofevery aspect of the SheriffsOffice as well. And that

is because I have workedmy way up through theranks and I have personallydone almost every job inthe agency at one time oranother. However, beyondall of that, I am the only onerunning for this office thathas been a sheriff.Most important issues: 1)Fiscal responsibility. Giventhe economic reality faced bythe federal, state and localgovernments, thats a hugeissue in every political race inthe nation. My administrationhas been very frugal with taxdollars and I have returnedmoney from my budget to thecounty at the end of every

fiscal year that I have been inoffice. 2) Continuing to lowerthe crime rate in the county.We have made significantprogress in that area duringmy first three years in office.How would you deal withbudget cuts? I have beenextremely frugal withtaxpayer dollars and havereturned money from myallotted budget to the countyevery year. On the otherhand, if we were faced witha budget cut, we would notfavor cutting services. Wewould find a way to do morewith less.What changes to thedepartments operation

will the citizens of PutnamCounty see first? We aredoing a good job and I thinkits important that we havethe opportunity to continueto build upon the successfulfoundation that we have laidduring my first term.

sCott i. simmonsAge: 50Education: Bachelorsdegree, criminology,Florida State University; St.Augustine Law EnforcementAcademyFamily: Wife, Jan (16 years);children, Mac, Heather, JoshPrevious Elected offices:NoneQualifications: My 25years of law enforcementexperience, 23.5 of whichwere spent at the PutnamCounty Sheriffs Office.

During my service at thePutnam County SheriffsOffice, I worked in almostevery law enforcementposition available, to include:patrol deputy, youth resourceofficer, juvenile courtbailiff, civil deputy, druginvestigator, property crimesinvestigator, persons crimesinvestigator, homicide anddeath investigator, propertycrimes supervisor at the rankof sergeant, assistant chiefof the detective division atthe rank of lieutenant andundersheriff at the rank ofcolonel.Most important issues:Jail overcrowding, drugs,

crime rate, officer retentionand compensation, and thebudget.How would you dealwith budget cuts: Ifeel that cutting any lawenforcement services wouldbe detrimental to the citizensand the community. This is anissue that must be decided bythose in the position to raisetaxes.What changes to thedepartments operationwill the citizens of PutnamCounty see first? The mainchange that citizens will seeis a true open door policy.As sheriff, I will make myselfand all command staff very

accessible to the community.The Sheriffs Office belongsto the citizens and they havea right to know, and be ableto examine, the practices ofthe agency.

rePublican

BRent CoatesAge: 52Education: Bachelorsdegree, Barry University;Certified Public Manager,Florida State University

Family: Wife, Kendra (29

years); daughter, SamanthaPrevious elected offices:NoneQualifications: 31 years ofexperience, 28 years with

the Florida Highway Patrol.Retired as a major, honorarypromotion to lieutenantcolonel. 15 years adjunctfaculty University of NorthFlorida Institute of PoliceTechnology & Management.Most importantissues: Create trustand transparency in alloperations of the SheriffsOffice, budget reduction,

reduce crime, drug-relatedissues, retention of PCSOemployees, minorityrecruitment, animal control,overcrowding at the jail.How would you deal

with budget cuts?Learn

and adapt to provide thesame level of service withless because of the tougheconomic times we arefacing.

What changes to thedepartments operationwill the citizens of PutnamCounty see first? A sheriffwho is out in the community,approachable and able tobe contacted by membersthroughout the community.

tom williamsNo response

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