The Champion Free Press, Friday, July 13, 2012

Local News

Page 15A

2012
The 2010 census resulted in a great deal of redistricting in Georgia, making 2012 an exceptionally active political year. Voters would do well to confirm their districts before going to the polls as many have changed. In addition to a large number of candidates, there are referendums and party specific questions on the ballots. The Champion contacted candidates by email and asked them to complete a questionnaire. Responses are printed as provided and are unedited except to shorten answers that exceeded the 35-word limit.

ELECTION GUIDE

Public Service Commissioner

Name: Chuck Eaton (incumbent) Party affiliation: Republican City of residence: Atlanta Education: University of Alabama, B.A. Currently enrolled at Georgia Eaton State University Law School Usual occupation: Commissioner PSC
(to succeed Chuck Eaton)

Political offices held in the past: influences and accept zero gifts for zero influence. Currently a commissioner Why are you seeking office? Im (to succeed Pam Davidson) running for re-election on the PSC Name: Pam Davidson Party affiliation: to ensure Georgia families have Republican reliable and competitive energy. I City of residence: will continue to fight for an energy Douglasville policy that attracts high-paying Education: four jobs to Georgia. units study of a BA in organizational Name: Stephen Oppenheimer behavior Party affiliation: Democrat Davidson Usual occupation: No further information provided. energy consultant Political offices held in the past: Name: Matt Reid None Party affiliation: Why are you seeking this ofRepublican fice?: We need unbiased leadCity of residence: ership to address Ga.s energy Decatur situation. Because the incumbent Education: Bachhas taken money from utilities, he elor of Mechanical Engineering Geor- can no longer serve citizens. Reid gia Institute of Name: Stan Wise (incumbent) Technology (1982) Party affiliation: Usual occupation: Sales engiRepublican neer City of residence: Political offices held in the past: Marietta None Education: B.S. Why are you seeking this ofBusiness Managefice? Im a businessperson with ment, Charleston decades of energy experience. I Southern University want to lower rates for ratepayers; Wise Usual occupation: remove barriers to competition; create jobs through increased pri- Full-time Commissioner; Previvate investment; remove improper ously Operated Small Business

(Insurance) Political offices held in the past: Cobb County Board of Commissioners. Atlanta Regional Commission Why are you seeking this office: My conservative record demonstrates Im an advocate for reasonably-priced and reliable utility service and investment in our energy infrastructure without shifting debt to future generations. I have championed a diverse energy supply, including nuclear power.

U. S. Congress
District 4
Name: Courtney L. Dillard, Sr. Party affiliation: Democrat No further information provided Name: Hank Johnson (incumbent) Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Lithonia Education: Undergraduate: Clark College, Atlanta, Johnson Ga. 1976 Law Degree: Thurgood Marshall School
See Election on Page 16A

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The Champion contacted candidates by email and asked them to complete a questionnaire. Responses are printed as provided and are unedited except to shorten answers that exceeded to word limit.

of Law, Texas Southern University, Houston, Texas 1979. Usual occupation: Congressman, former attorney Political offices held in the past: Congressman, Georgias Fourth Congressional District: 2007-present; DeKalb County Commissioner, Fifth District: 2001-2006; DeKalb County Magistrate Court Judge: 1989-2000. Why are you seeking this office? I want to continue working for the district supporting legislation that puts people back to work, making investments in police, firefighters, teachers, clean energy and transportation, while protecting Social Security and the social safety net. Name: Lincoln Nunnally Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Porterdale Education: BS of Psychology Usual occupation: Sales Consulting Nunnally and Management Political offices held in the past: Not Applicable Why are you seeking this office? We need new faces in congress that are willing to work across party lines to solve the problems of the people and have the energy to see the solutions carried out. Name: Greg Pallen Party affiliation: Republican No further information provided.
Pallen

Political offices held in the past: Nonpartisan - Fulton County Superior Court (2005 - 2011) Why are you seeking this office? Georgias 5th congressional district has changed significantly over the last quarter century. I will be a representative that will rise above partisanship to address not only todays issues, but offer innovative solutions for tomorrows challenges. Name: John Lewis (incumbent) Party affiliation: Democrat No further information provided.

be a voice seeking reason, compromise. To show issues are important, not money. To restore individual responsibility in Congress. For all the right reasons. Name: Tom Price (incumbent) Party affiliation: Republican No further information provided.
Price

lutions for education and transportation, and a business environment that creates good jobs and successful citizens. We can do better than Georgias current leadership. Name: Kenneth Brett Quarterman Party affiliation: Republican City of residence: Decatur Education: BA History from UGA; BS, MS from Woodrow Wilson College of law Usual occupation: Retired educator Political offices held in the past: none Why are you are seeking this office? To stop waste in government spending that I see everywhere especially at the Allen Wilson Terrace project which is being demolished and rebuilt for a frivolous reason. To give voters a choice besides Jason Carter.

State Senate
District 10
Name: Emanuel D. Jones (incumbent) Party affiliation: Democrat No further information provided.
Jones

Lewis

Name: Howard Stopeck Party affiliation: Republican City of residence: Atlanta Education: LLB, JD Usual occupation: Lawyer, poet Stopeck Political offices held in the past: President, AZA Why are you are seeking this office? Help the poor more than merely keep them alive. Transparent Tax: 16% flat-tax -$25,000 household exemption, 13% decrease. 28% corporate tax -$1 million exemption, doubling corporate tax shifts tax burden, increase consumption, create jobs, abolish tax avoidance loopholes.

District 43
Name: Fran Millar (incumbent) Party affiliation: Republican No further information provided. Name: Ronald B. Ramsey Sr. (incumbent) Party affiliation: Democrat No further information provided.

District 40

Ramsey

Millar

District 44
Name: Gail Buckner Party affiliation: Democrat No further information provided.
Buckner

District 41
Name: Steve Henson (incumbent) Party affiliation: Democrat No further information provided.

District 6
Name: Jeff Kazanow Party affiliation: Democratic No further information provided
Kazanow

Name: J. Chris Vaughn Party affiliation: Republican No further information provided.

Vaughn

Henson

Name: Marcus E. Davis Party affiliation: Democrat No further information provided. Name: Gail Paulette Davenport (incumbent) Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Jonesboro Education: BA degree, Spelman College Davenport Usual occupation: real estate agent Political offices held in the past: GA State Senate, 4 years; current state senator, District 44 Why are you seeking this office? As a strong and dedicated Democrat, I am seeking re-election to continue to be an advocate in the legislature for job creation, home mortgage relief,
See Election on Page 17A

District 42
Name: Jason J. Carter (incumbent) Party affiliation: Democratic City of residence: City of Atlanta in DeKalb Education: J.D. University of GeorCarter gia; B.A. Duke University Usual occupation: Attorney Political offices held in the past: State Senate District 42 Why you are seeking this office? I want to prepare Georgia for the future. We need real so-

District 5
Name: Michael Johnson Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Atlanta Education: Morehouse College (1990); Syracuse University College of Law (1993) Johnson Usual occupation: Lawyer; Former Fulton County Superior Court Judge

Name: Robert Montigel Party affiliation: Democratic City of residence: Roswell Education: BS Economics-Lehigh University, MBA Finance-Columbia Montigel University Usual occupation: Small business owner, Biggs Building Products, Suwanee Political offices held in the past: None Why are you seeking this office? To give voters a choice, a chance to change Congress. To

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The Champion contacted candidates by email and asked them to complete a questionnaire. Responses are printed as provided and are unedited except to shorten answers that exceeded to word limit.

Name: Chris Boedeker Party affiliation: District 55 Republican City of residence: Name: Gloria Butler DeKalb (incumbent) Education: EcoParty affiliation: nomics and SociolDemocrat ogy, University of No further informaGeorgia; Juris DocBoedeker tion provided torate, Brooklyn Law School Butler Usual occupation: Attorney Political offices held in the past: Name: Mark Williams None Party affiliation: Why are you seeking this ofDemocrat fice? I have watched over the City of residence: years as our state representatives Snellville have used public office to purEducation: BA, sue their own self-interest. What Accounting, Morewe need now is a servant-leader house College; guided by conservative principles. Masters of EducaWilliams tion, School Counsel- Name: Scott Holcomb ing, Auburn University Party affiliation: Usual occupation: High school Democrat counselor City of residence: Political offices held in the past: Atlanta None Education: B.A., Why are you seeking this ofUniversity of Confice? I am seeking this office as necticut; Jurisa result of what I think is a lack of Doctorate, West Holcomb leadership by our current Senator. Virginia University; If elected, I look forward to work- M.B.A. University of Georgia ing with the constituents of 55 to (graduating in May 2012). improve education. Usual occupation: Attorney Political offices held in the past: State representative 2010-12. Why are you seeking this office? Georgia can, and must, do better. In many areas, our state is underperforming. We must District 79 strengthen our competitiveness, invest in our educational sysName: Tom Taylor tems, improve our transportation (incumbent) networks and increase access to Party affiliation: health care. Republican No further information provided. Name: Carla Roberts Taylor Party affiliation: District 80 Republican No further informaName: Mike tion provided. Jacobs (incumbent) Roberts Party affiliation: Republican No further informa- District 82 tion provided. Name: Mary Jacobs Margaret Oliver (incumbent) Name: Sandy Party affiliation: Murray Democrat Party affiliation: No further informaDemocrat tion provided. No further informaOliver tion provided.

veterans, an excellent education system and going green initiatives.

District 81

District 83

State House of Representatives

Name: Michele Henson (incumbent) Name: Howard Party affiliation: Mosby Democrat (incumbent) City of residence: Party affiliation: Stone Mountain Democrat Education: BA in No further informasociology at the tion provided. Mosby University of Miami Henson (Fla.) Usual occupation: BusinessDistrict 84 woman, administrator Political offices held in the past: Name: Rahn Mayo (incumbent) State Representative for 22 years Party affiliation: Why are you seeking this ofDemocrat fice? I have 22 years of legislative City of residence: experience, constituent service Decatur and active involvement in the life Education: Howard of the community. It is my goal to University continue working for the commuUsual occupation: nity and DeKalb County. Real Estate Broker Mayo Political offices held in the past: State Represen- District 87 tative. Originally elected in 2008 Name: Earnest Why are you are seeking this Coach Williams office? My goal is to improve the (incumbent) quality of life for DeKalb County Party affiliation: residents. Education and Job Democrat creation are central issues of No further informaconcern for my next term in the tion provided. General Assembly. Locally, I will Williams focus on roadside enhancement District 88 to improve the appearance and landscaping on State Roads. Name: Billy Mitchell (incumbent) District 85 Party affiliation: Democrat Name: Karla No further informaDrenner (incumtion provided. bent) Party affiliation: Mitchell Democrat No further informaDistrict 89 tion provided.
Drenner

District 86
Name: Lisa Y. Kinnemore Party affiliation: Republican City of residence: Stone Mountain Education: BA in Political Science from Georgia State University Kinnemore Usual occupation: Home Educator Political offices held in the past: None Why are you seeking this office? I am running because I believe House District 86 deserves better representation. We need a representative who is visible and interacts with the community and cares about the needs of the people.

Murray

Name: Stacey Abrams (incumbent) Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Atlanta Education: J.D.The Yale Law School; M.P.AffAbrams the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin; B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies (Political Science, Economics and Sociology) - Spelman College, magna cum laude. Usual occupation: Co-Founder, Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of NOWaccount Network Corporation, a financial services firm. Stacey cofounder of Nourish, Inc. Political offices held in the past: Georgia House Representative District 84, Georgia House Minority Leader
See Election on Page 18A

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Election Continued From Page 17A

The Champion contacted candidates by email and asked them to complete a questionnaire. Responses are printed as provided and are unedited except to shorten answers that exceeded to word limit.

Why are you seeking this office? I am seeking the office of Georgia House Representative in District 89 to continue to serve the citizens of DeKalb County and the state of Georgia, fighting for educational opportunity, economic security and shared responsibility.

the District toward opportunities that enhance Economic and Community Development, Public Safety, and Education. Having established relationships on local, state and federal levels, Im ready to hit the ground running. Name: Doreen Carter Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Lithonia Education: B.B.A. Accounting, M.A. Theology, M.B.A. Usual occupation: Carter Accounting, consulting, financial education Political offices held in the past: City council Why are you seeking this office? My community needs/deserves an advocate leader. I stepped up to run for this office to make a difference in the issues that mattereducation for our children, jobs for the unemployed and safe communities.

District 90
Name: Scott Hughes Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Decatur Education: B.A. Public Administration, Expected completion of MBA Hughes (2013) Usual occupation: Health care administrator, revenue cycle Political offices held in the past: none Why are you seeking this office? To give all people of the district a seat at the decision making table in an effort to improve the quality of life for everyone that calls District 90 home. Name: Pam S. Stephenson (incumbent) Party affiliation: Democrat No further information provided.
Stephenson

ing Technology in the Classroom; B.A. French Usual occupation: Educator Political offices held in the past: N/A Why are you seeking this office? I am running because we must stop the gutting of public education. We can start to repair our economy, by repairing Georgias classrooms. I want to be your voice on education at the Gold Dome.

District 93

District 91
Name: Dee Dawkins-Haigler (incumbent) Party affiliation: Democrat No further information provided.
Haigler

District 92
Name: Tonya P. Anderson Party affiliation: Democrat City of Residence: Lithonia Education: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration; M. Div, Luther Rice University Usual occupation: Anderson Consultant and Pastor Political offices held in the past: Mayor and Councilmember Why you are seeking this office? I am committed to leading

Name: Dexter Dawston Party affiliation: Democrat Residence: Snellville Education: Bachelor of Science Occupation: Truck Driver Dawston Political offices held in the past: No past political positions Why are you seeking this office? For far too long our political Name: Kathy L. Harvey leaders have failed to bring about Party affiliation: real results and better opportuniDemocrat ties to everyday people lives in City of residence: Georgia. We need real results in Conyers education, jobs, immigration reEducation: MS Law form and taxes. and Public Policy and MA Counseling Name: Christine Tina Hoffer Usual occupation: Harvey Party affiliation: Minister/Counselor Republican and Recent Business Owner City of residence: Political offices held in the past: Snellville Presently serving my second, Education: Masters four-year term as State Commitof Science, nursing, tee Member, 4th Congressional Emory University; District, Democratic Party of Bachelor of SciHoffer Georgia (DPG) ence, Nursing, EmWhy are you are seeking this ory University; Bachelor of Arts, office? Republican War on Wom- music, Houghton College en. Strong desire to protect citiUsual occupation: Registered zens. DPG State Committee and nurse Citizen Lobbyist. The only candi- Political offices held in the past: date in this election who has the none experience to influence legislation Why are you seeking this ofon the issues important to HD 92. fice? Im the conservative choice for District 93. I support Name: Sherri Len a reduced tax burden that will Washington stimulate economic growth. Also Party affiliation: support health care reform, fully Democrat funded public education and a No further informa- master plan for metro traffic relief. tion provided. Name: Darshun Kendrick Washington (incumbent) Party affiliation: Name: Doreen Williams Democrat Party affiliation: City of residence: Democrat Lithonia City of residence: Education: 2 BachConyers elors from OgeltEducation: Ed.D. horpe University, Curriculum Studies; Kendrick B.A. in political sciM.Ed. - IncorporatWilliams

ence and communications (2004); law degree (J.D.) from University of Georgia (2007); Masters in Business Administration from Kennesaw State University (2011) Usual occupation: Business attorney Political offices held in the past: State Representative from House District 94 Why you are seeking this office? I have dedicated my life to public service and already served my community even before being in elected office. I was born and raised in Georgia so I have a unique prospective of Georgias needs. Name: Glen Williams Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Unincorporated Snellville Education: Indiana University Usual occupation: Williams Youth Sports Academy Owner Political offices held in the past: None Why are you seeking this office? 12 years Ive worked as a community organizer with the clergy, schools, HOAs, in DeKalb/ Gwinnett to better our communities. As a State Representative Ill be able to truly represent the people to make a difference.

District 94
Name: Karen Bennett Party affiliation: Democrat No further information provided. Name: Patricia Bourdeau Party affiliation: Democrat No further information provided. Name: Tony Lentini Party affiliation: Democrat City of Residence: Snellville Education: Bachelor of Business, Oglethorpe University, 1987; MS Lentini Degree, Education, Georgia State University, 1992 Usual Occupation: Finance YP Holdings (Formerly AT&T Adversing Solutions) Political office held in the past: None Why are you seeking this office? I feel that we are in need of lending reforms for foreclosures, more jobs in DeKalb & Gwinnett, reform in ethics in government.
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The Champion contacted candidates by email and asked them to complete a questionnaire. Responses are printed as provided and are unedited except to shorten answers that exceeded to word limit.

Fully fund our public schools and to make our colleges affordable. Name: Jaye Lynn Peabody Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Snellville Education: Master of Science, Clinical Mental Health, Mercer University 2011; Peabody Master of Divinity, Mercer University, 2011; Masters of Public Administration, New York University, 1998; Bachelor of Arts, Ramapo College of New Jersey, 1991 Usual occupation: Executive director and counselor-Covenant Counseling & Family Resource Center Political offices held in the past: N/A Why are you seeking office? Im passionate about serving the medically and economically underserved, creating healthy lifestyles for children and families, promoting educational success for all children and creating jobs. I have dedicated my life and career to social justice.

Clerk of Superior Court

Name: Oretha Brown-Johnson Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Ellenwood Education: Associate of Science in Business Administration, Bachelor Brown of Science in Business with concentration in Human Resources (Dec. 2012). Graduate from Partners & Policymaking/ Governors Council for Developmental Disabilities Academy. Usual occupation: Retired on March 30, 2012 from the DeKalb County District Attorneys Office as the Administrative Coordinator of Case Management and Operations. Political offices held in the past: None Why are you seeking this office? I have 23+ years of work experience in the court system & bring fresh innovative new ideas for workflow efficiency, technology as well as a wealth of case management experience and successful customer service experience. Name: John Q. Carter Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Decatur Education: B.A., Psychology, Juris Doctorate (JD)
Carter

Usual occupation: Attorney and business owner Political offices held in the past: None Why are you seeking this office? My family has served DeKalb County since 1989. I will bring my experience as an attorney and a businessman to the Clerks Office. I will emphasize a high level of professionalism and customer service. Name: Debra Deberry (incumbent) Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Stone Mountain Education: Five hundred hours of court specific Deberry training, certification and court management as it relates to public administration, budgets and manpower. Usual occupation: Clerk of Superior Court Political offices held in the past: Clerk of Superior Court, Chief deputy clerk Why are you seeking this office? As clerk, I want to continue upholding the integrity of public records and protecting public funds. Judicially, I will continue providing premier support to each judge, justice agencies and all citizens of DeKalb County.

Name: Frank L. Swindle Party affiliation: Democratic City of residence: Atlanta county of DeKalb Education: Attended DeVry Technical College, Attended Swindle Yuba City College. Usual occupation: DeKalb Business Owner and employer, Records Management Supervision Political offices held in the past: None Why are you seeking this office? With over 22 years court services experience, I promise to be effective, inclusive, and responsive. Im dedicated to a positive 21st century change. I will promote Online Services, public awareness, community outreach and superior leadership! Name: Cheryl D. Vortice Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Decatur Education: DeKalb County Public Schools, Druid Hills High School Usual occupation: Judicial case manager Political offices held in the past: Chief Deputy Clerk (1997-2000) Why are you seeking office? Employed with the Court more than half my life, I have balanced budgets, managed employees, worked closely with Judges, Lawyers and Citizens. I understand their wants and needs. As Clerk I will satisfy those needs with integrity and without additional burdens on taxpayers.

District Attorney
Name: Robert James (incumbent) Party affiliation: Democrat No further information provided.
James

See Election on Page 20A

PRIMARY ELECTION: JULY 31, 2012

COUNTY/ DISTRICT / STATE / FEDERAL
DONT FORGET TO VOTE

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The Champion contacted candidates by email and asked them to complete a questionnaire. Responses are printed as provided and are unedited except to shorten answers that exceeded to word limit.

Sheriff
Name: Thomas E. Brown (incumbent) Party affiliation: Democrat No further information provided.
Brown

Solicitor General
Name: Sherry Boston (incumbent) Party affiliation: Democrat No further information provided.
Boston

County Commissioner
District 1
Name: Elaine Boyer (incumbent) Party affiliation: Republican No further information provided
Boyer

Tax Commissioner Chief Executive Officer Name: Claudia G. Lawson

Party Affiliation: Democratic City of Residence: Decatur Education: BSFlorida State University Usual occupation: Lawson Tax Commissioner Political offices held in the past: Tax Commissioner Why are you seeking this office? A DeKalb public servant for 30+ years, honesty and integrity are principles I uphold as the fiduciary of public funds. Accountability, responsibility, transparency, and technological advances are virtues that I continually bring as Tax Commissioner.

Name: Melvin-Allen Tukes Party affiliation: Democrat City of Residence: Decatur Education: 16+ years (BA Criminology) Usual Occupation: Tukes Revenue officer, United States Treasury Political offices held in the past: This will be my first office Why are you seeking this office? To make the Tax Office more responsive to the needs and concerns of the Taxpayers. To ensure fair and equitable treatment in the collection of taxes and to demand quality customer service for every individual.

Name: Larry Danese Party affiliation: Name: Gregory Adams, Sr. Republican Party affiliation: City of residence: Democratic Atlanta, unincorCity of residence: porated DeKalb Stone Mountain County Education: Some Education: Masters college of business adminUsual occupation: Danese istration and engiPastor and former neering Adams police officer Political offices held in the past: Usual occupation: Operations manager and registered engineer; None now retired Why you are seeking this ofPolitical offices held in the past: fice? Running for a fair and just Elected to the DeKalb Soil and government throughout DeKalb County. Take a long look at public Water Conservation District, but not considered to be a Political safety, get this county cleaned Office up, work fairly with the BOC and navigate the youth to a promising Why are you seeking this office? I want to lower the barriers future. that are frustrating the cooperation we need in our government Name: Jerome to move the county forward. I Edmondson want appropriate staff reductions Party affiliation: to control the budget without disDemocratic No further informa- ruption of service delivery. tion provided

Name: Steve Bradshaw Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Clarkston Education: MPA Georgia State University, BA Armstrong State ColBradshaw lege Usual occupation: Account manager in material handling Political offices held in the past: N/A Why are you seeking this office? The citizens of District 4 deserve a County Commissioner who will be accessible and responsive. Not just at election time, but for an entire term. I am running to offer them that choice. Name: Clyburn Halley, Jr. Party affiliation: Democrat City of Residence: Decatur Education: Northwestern University Center for Public Safety, School of Halley Police Staff and Command Class-288, Evanston, IL; Masters of Public Administration, Georgia Law Enforcement Command College Columbus State University, Columbus, GA; St. Leo University, Atlanta, GA, B.A. Criminal Justice 2011- Georgia Peace Officer Training Hours 2,439-Hours Usual occupation: Law Enforcement Political offices held in the past: None Why are you seeking this office? I am seeking office to promote public safety and economic development, and to provide excellent leadership to ensure that DeKalb County neighborhoods are vibrant, inclusive, and attractive to all of its citizens.

District 4

Edmondson

Chief Magistrate
Name: Berryl A. Anderson (incumbent) Party affiliation: Democrat No further information provided.
Anderson

Name: Burrell Ellis (incumbent) Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Stone Mountain Education: Economics and Finance degree, The Wharton School of Ellis The University of Pennsylvania. Law Degree, The University of Texas at Austin Usual occupation: Attorney Political offices held in the past: DeKalb County Government CEO (2009-Present) and DeKalb County Board of Commissioners, District 4 (2000 2008) Why are you seeking this office? I am seeking re-election as DeKalb CEO because of my operational experience, prior county legislative experience, and successful legal career enables me to develop a vision and work towards creating a stronger, better DeKalb County.

Name: Sharon Barnes-Sutton (incumbent) Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Stone Mountain Education: Bachelors of Science, Barnes-Sutton commerce and business administration, University of Alabama; Masters of Business Administration (MBA), Mercer University Usual occupation: Educator Political offices held in the past: DeKalb County commissioner, District 4 Why are you seeking this office? To continue improving your quality of life by applying the knowledge and experience Ive gained as your current Commissioner balanced with the compassion and understanding of being a 24-year resident of the District.

District 5
Name: Gina Mangham Party affiliation: Democratic City of residence: Lithonia Education: Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) in Finance Mangham from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor; Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.) from John Marshall Law School in Atlanta Usual occupation: Attorney at Law, Mediator Political offices held in the past: None
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The Champion contacted candidates by email and asked them to complete a questionnaire. Responses are printed as provided and are unedited except to shorten answers that exceeded to word limit.

Why are you seeking office? I am concerned about the decline in South DeKalb over the past five years. I have the skills, leadership and dedication to improve our community for the benefit of the entire county. Name: Lee May Party affiliation: Democrat No further information provided.
May

laboration, accountability and hard work guide me. Name: Edmond Richardson Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Ellenwood Education: BA Political Science Morris Brown CollegeMasters of Public Richardson Administration University of West Georgia, Certificate of Nonprofit Management, Georgia State University, Andrew Young School of Policy Studies Usual occupation: Chief of staff, DeKalb County commissioner Political offices held in the past: None Why are you seeking this office? Its time to put a stop to the inefficiency of our current government, wasteful spending, misuse of county resources and continuous tax increases. If you believe the citizens of DeKalb deserve more responsible leadership.

Superior Court Judge, Stone Mountain Circuit

(to succeed Gregory A. Adams)

Name: Gregory A. Adams (incumbent, unopposed)

(to succeed Tangela M. Barrie)

Name: Tangela M. Barrie (incumbent, unopposed)

(to succeed Cynthia C.J. Becker)

Education: BA, University of Washington; JD, Emory Law School Usual occupation: Judge Political offices you have held in the past: State Court, 1981-84; Superior Court, 1985-present Why are you seeking this office? I served the citizens of DeKalb County for 32 years, and continue to enjoy it. I want to continue to serve.
(to succeed Mark Anthony Scott)

Name: Cynthia C.J. Becker (incumbent, unopposed)

(to succeed Gail C. Flake)

Name: Mark Anthony Scott (incumbent, unopposed)

Name: Ken Samuel Party affiliation: Democrat No further information provided.

Samuel

Name: Andre R. White Party affiliation: Democrat City of residence: Lithonia Education: College of DuPage, Glen Ellen, Illinois Usual occupation: Publisher of The Sentinel Political offices held in the past: N/A Why are you seeking this office? As a tax payer, parent and business owner, I am concerned about the direction of our county. I am concerned about the leadership that we have struggled with and I believe we can do better.

State Judgeships
Supreme Court Justice
(to succeed Carol W. Hunstein)

Name: Carol W. Hunstein (incumbent, unopposed)

(to succeed Harold D. Melton)

Name: Harold D. Melton (incumbent, unopposed)

(to succeed Huge P. Thompson)

Name: Gail C. Flake (incumbent) City of residence: Tucker Education: B.A. University of Memphis; Masters Georgia Institute of Technology; J.D. Emory University Flake Law School Usual occupation: Superior Court Judge, Stone Mountain Judicial Circuit Public offices held in the past: DeKalb State Court Judge; DeKalb Recorders Court Judge; DeKalb County Chief Staff Attorney Why you are seeking this office? I believe that the citizens of DeKalb County deserve to be served by qualified and experienced Superior Court Judges who are both fair and unbiased. Name: Michael Rothenberg City of residence: Decatur Education: B.A. with High Honors, University of Florida; J.D., South Texas College of Law Rothenberg Usual occupation: Attorney Political offices held in the past: None. Why you are seeking this office? I believe in alternative sentencing for non-violent offenders, in courtroom efficiency, in getting the law right the first time, in a new day for DeKalb.
(to succeed Linda Warren Hunter)

State Court of DeKalb County

State Court Judge
Name: Stacey K. Hydrick (incumbent, unopposed) City of residence: Dunwoody Education: Graduated from Dunwoody High School in 1985; received Hydrick BA in English from Emory University 1989; received Juris Doctorate from Georgia State University in 1992. Usual occupation: DeKalb County State Court Judge, Division II Political offices held in the past: None Why you are seeking this office? Serving as your state court judge is both an honor and a privilege. I remain committed to ensuring that justice is applied efficiently, promptly and uniformly across the board, for everyone who appears before me.
(to succeed Wayne M. Purdom) (to succeed Stacey K. Hydrick)

District 6
Name: Kathie Gannon (Incumbent) Party affiliation: Democratic City of residence: Decatur Education: MSW (Masters of Social Work) University of Gannon Georgia; Masters Certificate, Heritage Preservation, Georgia State University; BA Political Science, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI. Usual occupation: Community Advocacy. DeKalb County Commissioner Super District 6. Political offices you have held in the past: DeKalb County Commissioner Super District 6. Why are you seeking this office? The job is not done. Hard choices remain. Community matters, partnerships work, commitment to good government is more important than ever during tough economic times. Values like col-

Name: Huge P. Thompson (incumbent, unopposed)

Appeals Court Judge

(to succeed Keith R. Blackwell)

Name: Keith R. Blackwell (incumbent, unopposed)

(to succeed Michael P. Boggs)

Name: Wayne M. Purdom (incumbent, unopposed)

(to succeed Eleanor L. Ross)

Name: Michael P. Boggs (incumbent, unopposed)

(to succeed Stephen Dillard)

Name: Stephen Dillard (incumbent, unopposed)

(to succeed John J. Ellington)

Name: John J. Ellington (incumbent, unopposed)

(to succeed M. Yvette Miller)

Name: Linda Warren Hunter (incumbent, unopposed)

(to succeed Clarence F. Seeliger)

Name: M. Yvette Miller (incumbent, unopposed)

(to succeed Herbert Phipps)

Name: Herbert Phipps (incumbent, unopposed)

Seeliger

Name: Clarence F. Seeliger (incumbent, unopposed) City of residence: Stone Mountain

Name: Eleanor L. Ross (incumbent, unopposed ) City of residence: Decatur Education: Doctor of Jurisprudence, University of Houston Ross Usual occupation: State Court Judge, DeKalb County Political offices held in the past: Currently serving as State Court Judge, DeKalb County Why are you seeking this office? As a career prosecutor, I
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have always been committed to the administration of justice. As a State Court Judge I have the unique opportunity to facilitate the resolution of conflicts and disputes.
(to succeed Dax E. Lopez)

Name: Dax E. Lopez (incumbent) City of residence: Decatur (unincorporated) Education: B.S., Vanderbilt University (Political Science) cum Laude; J.D., cum laude, Lopez Vanderbilt Law School. Usual occupation: Attorney Political offices held in the past: This is my first public office. Why you are seeking this office? I have presided over several thousand criminal and civil cases as your judge. As the only candidate with judicial experience, I am uniquely qualified to ensuring that everyone is treated justly and fairly. Name: Dionne McGee City of residence: Lithonia Education: BA Criminal Justice University of GA (1996); Juris Doctorate John Marshall (2000) McGee Usual occupation: Attorney; former DeKalb Prosecutor Political offices held in the past: None Why are you seeking this office? As a native and public servant, I believe the citizens of DeKalb deserve a choice, and should be given the opportunity to elect a candidate with proven experience, leadership and connections to the community.
(to succeed Janis C. Gordon)

Political offices held in the past: Why are you seeking this office? I want to continue protecting DeKalb countys most vulnerable citizens. My 27 years of experience and dedication to Probate Court enables me to give our incapacitated and mentally ill adults and minors every protection the law allows.

Board of Education
School Board District 2
Name: Don McChesney (incumbent) City of residence: Atlanta Education: Bachelor of Arts, history, Georgia State University; Masters of Education, Georgia McChesney State University Usual occupation: Teacher Political offices held in the past: School board Why are you seeking this office? I am a product of the DeKalb School System. It was the reason for my success in life. I would like to help return this once proud system to that prominence. Name: Marshall Orson City of residence: Atlanta (unincorporated) Education: Duke A.B. 82, Duke School of Law J.D. 85 Usual occupation: Orson Consultant Political offices held in the past: none Why are you are seeking this office? Our current school board is failing us. Every child deserves a high quality education. The school board must be educationally focused, fiscally responsible, accountable for results, transparent in its actions and committed to every child.

Usual occupation: 20+ years with The Home Depot Political offices held in the past: N/A Why are you seeking this office? Budget shortfalls have come to a head. We are moving in the wrong direction and the time for change is now. I believe I can bring a positive momentum and IMPROVE the DeKalb School System. Name: Jim Kinney City of residence: Tucker Education: M.S. Physics Georgia State University 1997 Usual occupation: Linux Systems Kinney Architect/Admin/ Engineer Political offices held in the past: none Why are you seeking this office? There is little else as adults we do more important than preparing our children for the world they inherit from us. I will focus the board on education first and work to stabilize the budget. Name: Jim McMahan City of residence: Atlanta Education: 1983 graduate of Northside High School; attended Georgia State University and Wofford ColMcMahan lege Usual occupation: Residential mortgage loan originator Political offices held in the past: none Why are you seeking this office? I am running for the school board because there is a need for better leaders within our school system. I have the skill set, determination and desire to offer solutions for a better DCSD.

1981-1992, DeKalb School Board, 2008-2012 Why are you are seeking this office? I want to provide an excellent educational opportunity for every child in DeKalb County; to use tax dollars in wisely, efficiently and honestly, and restore public trust in the DeKalb School system.

District 6
Name: Melvin Johnson Party affiliation: Democratic City of residence: Stone Mountain Education: Bachelor of Science, Masters of Education, Education Johnson Specialist, Educational Doctorate Usual occupation: Retired educator Political offices held in the past: None Why are you seeking this office? I am seeking office to use my educational experience and knowledge to help restore excellence in DeKalb Schools by improving student achievement, strengthening community trust, promoting board and stakeholder relationships, and increasing fiscal and operational efficiency. Name: Denise E. McGill No further information provided.

Name: Janis C. Gordon (incumbent, unopposed)

Probate Judge
Name: Jeryl Debra Rosh (incumbent, unopposed) City of residence: Atlanta Education: Georgia State (Law Degree), University of Maryland (Bachelors) Rosh Usual occupation: Probate Judge
(to succeed Jeryl Debra Rosh)

District 4
Name: James Tom Gilbert City of residence: Tucker Education: High school graduate with some college

Gilbert

Name: Terrilyn Rivers-Cannon City of residence: Snellville Education: Bachelor Criminal Justice; Master-Social Work; SpecialistEducational Leadership; DoctorateCannon Educational Leadership Usual occupation: School social worker Name: Paul Womack (incumbent) Political offices held in the past: none City of residence: Why are you seeking this ofUnincorporated fice? As a current educator, I DeKalb County have a clear understanding of Education: Bachthe multiple challenges that are elors in Business encountered inside and outside Education, Univerof the classroom by our students sity of Georgia, U. and teachers. S. Treasury Law Womack Enforcement TrainName: Latasha C. ing School, American ManageWalker ment Executive Graduate ProParty affiliation: gram. Democratic Usual occupation: Chairman & City of residence: CEO Mobility Designs, Inc. Stone Mountain Political offices held in the Education: Atpast: DeKalb School Board,
Walker

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The Champion Free Press, Friday, July 13, 2012

Page 23A

Election Continued From Page 22A

The Champion contacted candidates by email and asked them to complete a questionnaire. Responses are printed as provided and are unedited except to shorten answers that exceeded to word limit.

tended Clark Atlanta University 92-96 Biology/Pre-med Usual occupation: self employed as a personal assistant, Co-chair a Community Advocacy Group called ABC (Advocates on Behalf of Children), Full time devoted mother Political offices held in the past: none Why are you seeking this office? As your elected official I am committed to: Preserving policies and programs that work and have a proven positive impact on the children. Increasing public trust through greater transparency and accountability Restoring DeKalb Schools to Excellence

past: None Why are you seeking this office? I want to ensure fairness and equality and become a voice for not only District 8 but all of DeKalb; advocating for concerns that impact our children, teachers and communities. Your responsive, reliable, responsible candidate. Name: Pamela Speaks City of residence: Stone Mountain Education: Ed.D., Ed.S., M.ED., B.S. Usual occupation: Retired Educator Political offices held in the past: Speaks None Why are you seeking this office? I am seeking this office to continue with dedication the hard work to complete the journey as a voice of reason to bring improved student achievement and fiscal stability to our school district. Experience counts!

31
For Your Candidate
Voting is a privilege that many Americans take for granted. Our voices are expressed through the men and women we elect to office. Exercise your right to vote.

July

District 8
Name: Michelle Mimi Clark City of residence: Stone Mountain Education: B.S. Marketing Usual occupation: Owner of Interstate Driver Services and Solutions (driver Clark leasing company for CDL drivers) Political offices held in the

SPEAK OUT. BE HEARD.

BRADSHAW
DEKALB COUNTY

STEVE

Commissioner District 4
You Have a Choice www.bradshawfordekalb.com

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The Champion Free Press, Friday, July 13, 2012

Family. Community. Justice.

ABOUT JUDGE LOPEZ
10 year DeKalb County resident ONLY Latino State Court Judge in Georgia Supervising Judge of DUI Court Operates Alternative Sentencing Program Barrister, Lamarr Inn of Court JD, Vanderbilt Law School, Cum Laude

SELECTED HONORS AND RECOGNITIONS

Top 40 under 40, Georgia Trend On the Rise, Fulton Daily Report Rising Star (Twice), Superlawyer Magazine Public Official of the Year Leadership DeKalb Graduate Legal Elite, Georgia Trend Magazine

Gov. Roy Barnes Sen. Fran Millar Sen. Jason Carter Rep. Tom Taylor Rep. Stephanie Stuckey Benfield Rep. Mary Margaret Oliver Rep. Mike Jacobs District Attorney Robert James Solicitor General Sherry Boston

You!

Vote Judge Dax Lopez - July 31, 2012

www.daxfordekalb.com