VOTER GUIDE 2014 MECKLENBURG COUNTY
Transcription
VOTER GUIDE 2014 MECKLENBURG COUNTY
MECKLENBURG COUNTY VOTER GUIDE 2014 Funding Our Schools Good Jobs Voting Rights Health Care ELECTION DAY IS NOV. 4 Polls open 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Early Voting is Oct. 23 - Nov. 1 See Early Voting times and locations on the back cover THIS NON-PARTISAN VOTER GUIDE WAS PRODUCED BY About This Guide This Guide is produced and distributed by the League of Women Voters of Charlotte-Mecklenburg and Democracy North Carolina. We are non-partisan organizations and make no endorsements. Candidates for each race were asked the same questions and the answers received by deadline are provided verbatim. Unless otherwise noted, vote for one candidate in each race. The judges’ races and the Soil & Water Conservation District Supervisor race are non-partisan; party affiliation is noted for all other candidates after their name. This Guide is available online at www.GoLeagueGo.org and a limited number of paper copies are distributed to public locations such as libraries. DEBATES: The League of Women Voters of Charlotte-Mecklenburg works with WTVI PBS to produce debates. The debates are set to be taped on Oct. 21 and shown on WTVI on Sunday, Nov. 2. They will be available after taping on www.GoLeagueGo.org. Have Your Say This year, North Carolina will elect: a U.S. Senator who could determine which party controls the Senate, the make-up of the U.S. Supreme Court, and the priorities of the federal budget; members of the NC General Assembly who set state policies in every aspect of your life; the majority of the NC Supreme Court and many other judges who can overrule lawmakers; and many local officials who enact and enforce the laws that affect your schools, health, land use and family life. Don’t let these officials make decisions without consulting you! VOTING IN 2014 Am I registered? You must be registered in your county by October 10 to vote this year. Learn if you are registered at www.ncsbe.gov. Click on “Voter/Absentee Look-Up” under “For Voters.” Enter just your last and first name, not a middle name or birth date, and hit Search. If your name doesn’t appear, try using just a couple of letters of your first name with an asterisk (*) as a wild card, or see if you registered using a middle or nickname as your first name. For help, call the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections at 704-336-2133. Where do I vote? Who is on my ballot? The look-up feature for checking if you are registered (described above) takes you to your registration page, which includes the location of your precinct’s polling place and a box for “Sample Ballots” with a link to your ballot for the general election (click on the 4 or 5 digit code under Ballots). What are the main issues? You’ll have a chance to vote on who is in charge of the justice system and public schools, as well as the lawmakers who represent you in Congress, at the General Assembly, and on the county level. NC voters will elect a majority of the NC Supreme Court this year and perhaps the deciding seat in the U.S. Senate that determines which party controls the Senate, appointments to the U.S. Supreme Court, and other crucial decisions. When should I vote? The best time to vote is during Early Voting, from October 23 to November 1. See the locations and times for Early Voting on the back cover. You can update your registration if you’ve moved within your county, and you can address other issues that may arise. And it may rain or worse on Election Day! If you wait until Election Day, November 4, you must vote in your own precinct’s polling place. You may also vote by mail; see page 3 for details about using “absentee voting.” Tips for Voting Show ID? Until 2016, you generally do not need to show an ID to vote. See the box on page 23 for more about ID rules. ballot, contest by contest, to cast a vote. Be sure to look on both sides of the ballot. Judicial and other candidates in nonpartisan races do not have party labels by their names. Straight Ticket. Voters will no longer have the option of marking one box to select all the candidates of one party. Candidates in partisan races will still have their party’s label by their names, but voters will need to go down the Lists. You can take a list of your choices into the polls to help you, but don’t leave the list behind or show it to others inside the voting room. Have the list on paper; using a cell phone inside the voting room is not allowed. Page 2 Tips for Voting (cont’d) Assistance. A family member can help you vote at the polls. If you have a disability or difficulty reading (due to language or vision), you have the right to assistance from anyone of your choice except your employer or union agent. Back-up. If you have a problem at the poll, you have the right to receive a provisional ballot and a way to learn if that ballot counted, or if not, the reason why not. If you make a mistake on your ballot as you vote, ask the official for another one. Tip: You must vote in your own precinct if you wait until Election Day. 3 WAYS TO VOTE IN NORTH CAROLINA 1 EARLY VOTING IN PERSON (Oct. 23-Nov. 1) Before Election Day, you can vote early at any of the several Early Voting locations in Mecklenburg County from Oct. 23 to Nov. 1. See the back cover for the locations and times. Note: 21 sites are open on Sunday, Oct. 26. You do not need an excuse to vote early. Some sites are open in the evening or on Saturdays. Early Voting can save you time and trouble on Election Day, when it might be raining or worse. Early Voting locations also make it easy to update your address and vote if you have moved within the same county. 2 IN PERSON ON ELECTION DAY (Nov. 4) If you wait until Nov. 4, you must vote in your assigned polling place. The polls open at 6:30 AM and close at 7:30 PM. If you are in the line by 7:30 PM, you will be able to vote. If you cast your ballot in another precinct, it probably will not count. If you don’t know where your precinct polling place is, call the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections at 704-3362133 or follow the directions for “Where Do I Vote” on page 2 of this Guide. 3 MAIL-IN ABSENTEE VOTING Any registered voter can vote using this method. You don’t need to be out of town on Election Day or have a special reason to vote by mail. The first step is to submit a request form for an absentee ballot. Get the form at www.demnc.co/absform and learn more at www.demnc.co/mail. The request form must be completed and signed by the voter or the voter’s near relative (a near relative is a spouse, brother, sister, child, parent, grand-parent, grandchild, stepparent, stepchild, or mother-, father-, daughter-, or son-in-law). Mail the signed request to Mecklenburg County Board of Elections, P.O. Box 31788, Charlotte, NC 28231 (mark the envelope “Absentee Request”). It must be received by October 28 at 5 PM. Once a valid request is received, a ballot and return envelope will be mailed directly to the voter. When you receive the mail-in ballot, be sure to follow all the directions, including having two witnesses or one notary sign in the appropriate place on the envelope that is provided. To be counted, the voter (or the voter’s near relative) can return the voted ballot in three ways: (1) at the Elections Board’s office by 5 PM, Nov. 4; (2) at an Early Voting location from Oct. 23 to Nov. 1; or (3) by mail so it is postmarked by Nov. 4 and received at the Board of Elections by Nov. 7. Returning your ballot will take two first-class stamps. Some mail centers do not apply postmarks, so take it inside the post office and request a postmark if it’s near the Nov. 4 deadline. Questions? Call the hotline! 1-888-OUR-VOTE Election experts are standing by to answer all your voting questions! Page 3 US SENATE CANDIDATES Kay Hagan (D) Occupation: U.S. Senator Age: 61 Website: www.KayHagan.com Education and Training: B.A. from Florida State University; J.D. from the Wake Forest University School of Law. Background and Experience: Worked at North Carolina National Bank for 10 years, becoming Vice-President; elected to the North Carolina State Senate in 1998; elected to the U.S. Senate in 2008. 1. The Voting Rights Amendment Act is a bipartisan bill to restore voting rights protections that were diminished by a recent US Supreme Court decision. Will you vote for passage of the bill and restore the needed protections? Please explain. I would vote for passage of the bipartisan bill and restore these needed protections because I am committed to ensuring fair and equal access to the ballot box. In North Carolina and across the U.S. we should be eliminating barriers to the ballot box, not installing new ones. 2. Will you vote to pass the Disclose Act which requires reporting of campaign contributions before rather than after elections? Please explain your position. I support the DISCLOSE Act because North Carolinians deserve to know who is behind outside, special interest group attacks and I am working in the Senate to improve transparency and require groups to report who is funding them. The voices of everyday North Carolinians deserve to be heard, not drowned out. 3. What changes, if any, would you propose to the Affordable Care Act? There are some commonsense fixes we can make for this law to work better for North Carolina. I am focused on pragmatic solutions, like repealing the Medical Device Tax and elminiating a burdensome paperwork requirement for small businesses as we have already done. 4. In addition to the Veterans’ Healthcare Bill, passed at the end of July, 2014, what would you propose to improve services to our veterans? I have a record of results for North Carolina veterans. They have made tremendous sacrifices for us, and I will continue to fight for them. We need to ensure our VA system works for all veterans. I am focused on cutting through red tape to open new clinics, hiring more doctors and nurses, and eliminating the backlog in disability claims. 5. From your perspective, what would be the most important elements of comprehensive immigration reform and why? We need to fix our broken immigration system. I voted for the bipartisan Senate immigration bill that ensures that everyone plays by the same rules. By passing commonsense immigration reform, we can secure our borders, boost our economy, and reduce our deficit. Page 4 Thom Tillis (R) Candidate did not provide requested information. Sean Haugh (L) Occupation: Pizza delivery driver Age: 53 Website: www.seanhaugh.com Education and Training: Attended Tufts University, Medford MA. Background and Experience: I’d represent all people, not just those who agree with me. I’m the only candidate who will stop all war and stop spending more money than we have. 1. The Voting Rights Amendment Act is a bipartisan bill to restore voting rights protections that were diminished by a recent US Supreme Court decision. Will you vote for passage of the bill and restore the needed protections? Please explain. Yes, although I think it should go further and cover the entire country. Congress has Constitutional authority to regulate federal elections, and I would like that power to be used to standardize ballot access and other aspects of elections nationwide. 2. Will you vote to pass the Disclose Act which requires reporting of campaign contributions before rather than after elections? Please explain your position. Yes. This is another area where Congress has clear Constitutional authority, and should use that power to create transparency as well as limiting corporate electioneering. 3. What changes, if any, would you propose to the Affordable Care Act? It should be repealed. This has nothing to do with healthcare. It’s just straight up corporate welfare for the insurance companies. 4. In addition to the Veterans’ Healthcare Bill, passed at the end of July, 2014, what would you propose to improve services to our veterans? First we need to stop all war so that we have fewer veterans, with fewer disabilities caused by war. I’d refer to see VA reform driven by doctors and veterans than politicians. 5. From your perspective, what would be the most important elements of comprehensive immigration reform and why? I believe in open borders. We must stop the war on drugs, and stop interfering in the affairs of other nations. It’s our warlike policies that create the conditions which cause people to seek a better life here. US HOUSE - DISTRICT 8 Richard Hudson (R) Antonio Blue (D) Website: richardhudsonforcongress.com Website: n/a Background: Richard Hudson was elected in November 2012 to represent North Carolina’s 8th Congressional District. Rep. Hudson currently serves on the Committees on Agriculture, Education and the Workforce, and Homeland Security. Background: I am seeking election for the seat of US House of Representative for the 8th Congressional District of North Carolina. Richard decided to run for Congress because he was fed up with Washington’s inability to get things done. Since being elected, Richard has stood by his principles and worked with both Republicans and Democrats to advance common-sense solutions to the many challenges we face today. Richard graduated from Myers Park High School in Charlotte and UNC Charlotte. He lives in Concord with wife Renee, where they attend Crossroads Church. Candidate Statement: Since I began running for Congress in 2012, I’ve always said my top three priorities are jobs, jobs and jobs. The way I’ve tried to help bring more jobs to North Carolina is to be someone of integrity who stands on conservative principles but isn’t afraid to reach across the aisle to achieve common-sense solutions. While I’ve been very frustrated at times with the inability for folks from both parties to sit down and discuss the big issues facing our country, I’ve achieved some successes working towards practical solutions. As the Chairman of the Transportation Security Subcommittee on the Homeland Security Committee, I was able to pass a major reform to the way TSA purchases and implements new equipment. This was a reform that saves taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars and keeps us safer, and I was able to get it passed through the US House of Representatives by a vote of 416-0. In an environment where Republicans and Democrats can’t agree on much of anything, I think this bill was a step towards showing how we can work together for the good of the country to get things done. I look forward to continuing my work as your Congressman to promote common-sense measures that will put North Carolinians back to work. I was born in Richmond County and graduated from Richmond Senior High School. I attended various colleges while in the U.S. Army. I served honorably 24 years of active duty in the U.S. Army. I am currently serving my second term as Mayor of my hometown, Dobbin Heights, NC. As Mayor, I have secured $2 million dollars in grants for Dobbin Heights. We are currently erecting a $500,000 community center for community outreach. Candidate Statement: Jobs: I know the importance of getting this economy growing and creating jobs. I am committed to helping business be successful which in return will help create jobs. I will focus my efforts on bringing in federal dollars to be used to retrain our workers due to outsourcing. Education: I will work with the Department of Education to assure that our children are given the resources they need to be successful and productive citizens, and higher learning more affordable for all persons. Healthcare: I support the Affordable Healthcare Act. It is not perfect; there is room for improvement, however it is imperative that healthcare is provided for all citizens. Veteran Affairs: As your congressman, I will work tirelessly to ensure that every veteran is treated with dignity and respect as they served their country. Likewise, I am grateful for the sacrifices our veterans have made to our country, and I will work each and everyday to ensure the promises made to them are kept. I am faithful to my political convictions and I support the tenets of the Democratic Party. As your congressman, my goal is to serve the people of the 8th District in the same manner I served my country for 24 years. Page 5 US HOUSE - DISTRICT 9 Robert Pittenger (R) Website: RobertPittenger.com Background: Robert Pittenger is serving his first term in the US Congress, representing NC’s 9th Congressional District. He is dedicated to the idea that America is at its best when it is built from the ground up. Establishing a solid foundation of honesty, fairness and hard work, Robert has created meaningful growth in his family, faith, community, and in government. Before being elected to Congress, Robert worked for Campus Crusade for 10 years, served 3 terms in the NC Senate and ran for Lt. Governor in 2008. He is Chairman of the Congressional Taskforce on Terrorism and Unconventional Warfare, and also serves on the House Committee on Financial Services. Candidate Statement: As a small business owner, Robert Pittenger understands the costly effects of burdensome regulations and excessive tax burdens. America grew as the greatest country in the history of the world, not because of a great government bureaucracy but because of great people who sacrificed, worked hard, took risks and had the freedom to achieve their goals. Note: Mr. Eckles is qualified as a write-in candidate whose ballots will be counted. His name will not appear on the ballot, voters will need to use the “write-in” position to cast a vote for him. Shawn Eckles (U) Website: ShawnEckles.com Background: Shawn Eckles, native of Troutman NC, earned a Political Science BA at Morehouse College, then two masters degrees in health care management and marketing. Since 2000, Shawn is an entrepreneur in many media fields, as writer, director of documentaries, producer of events, television, music, websites and more. Shawn first ran for office and earned over 22,000 votes (46%) in 2012. Last year he lost a municipal race by 100 votes – both times without a party. In my free time, I paint Wall Music. Everywhere I go, everyday, I talk with people because people are the focus of my life. Candidate Statement: Shawn Eckles will bring changes that North Carolina needs when he goes to Washington. Common-sense problem solutions are his goal and practice. Those freedoms and liberties are being encroached by an ever-consuming and more powerful federal government that wants to micromanage and control our lives. His core values are health and education, the modern rights to life and liberty. For-profit entities will not protect these rights; that is the job of government. We are in a battle for the heart and soul of America and must bring fiscal accountability on Washington’s spending problem that will cause a financial collapse on its present course. My district needs more and better jobs and economic opportunities. Current “conservative” ideology about growing the economy by cutting taxes and chopping down government has made things stagnant and worse for average citizens. We are as well mindful that America has enemies and we must be vigilant and strong to secure our freedoms against terrorists and nation states who seek our destruction. As your Congressman, Robert Pittenger is committed to an America that embraces freedom, opportunity, and strong moral values. He has voted against Obamacare 20 times, works to free businesses from job-killing regulations, and is fighting to bring sound fiscal and security policies to ensure a bright future for our families for generations to come. We are watching our roads, our schools, our environment, and our civic social life deteriorate because wealthy tyrants have bought the media that puts them in charge of the American People’s money in the US House of Representatives. Send me to Washington to change this. Why is Eckles a write-in candidate? Due to identity theft, collecting over 20,000 birthdates, addresses and signatures is prohibitively difficult for a candidate without party affiliation to have his name on the ballot. So, Eckles collected the 250 signatures NC requires for write-in status. We must change our public service from obeying the ideology of a powerful minority to working honestly with the real people government exists to protect and help succeed. Page 6 US HOUSE - DISTRICT 12 Vince Coakley (R) Website: coakleyforcongress.com Background: Vince Coakley is a former broadcast television journalist, anchor, and radio host in Charlotte, and candidate for the 12th Congressional District. After a great deal of prayer, reflection, and counsel with his family, Vince decided to run to end the dysfunction in Washington. Vince and his wife of 22 years, Debbie, live in Charlotte and are the proud parents of four children. Candidate Statement: Vince Coakley is ready to end the dysfunction in Washington, D.C. and Congress that’s keeping Americans out of work and keeping small businesses from growing and hiring new people. Vince believes we must empower families and communities by restoring and defending freedom, liberty, and opportunity for all Americans. It’s not about political parties or labels; it’s about getting America and Americans working again. Alma Adams (D) Website: almaadamsforcongress.com the tough issues for North Carolina families. I led the effort to increase the minimum wage, fought to protect the rights of women, and worked to increase investment in our schools and our children. I’ve been a fighter for the families of North Carolina my whole career, and that’s exactly what I’ll be in Congress. In Congress, I will work to increase the minimum wage, pass the Paycheck Fairness Act so women can earn the same as men for doing the same job, protect voting rights, strengthen Social Security, and protect Medicare. We cannot go back on our promise to our seniors. I’ll stand up to the Tea Party Republicans and fight against their reckless cuts to vital programs working families depend on. DO I NEED A PHOTO ID TO VOTE? NO! When you go to vote in 2014, an elections official will ask you if you have one of the acceptable types of photo IDs that will be required in 2016, but you do not need to show it to vote this year. Background: Rep. Adams has spent the last two decades in the General Assembly leading the fight to raise the minimum wage, protect the reproductive rights of women, and increase North Carolina’s investment in education. The new law is being challenged in court. It would require a person inside the polls to present one of these, beginning in 2016: a NC driver’s license or ID card from NC DMV; military or veterans card; passport; or a tribal enrollment card. Prior to her time in the legislature, Alma was the first African American woman elected to the Greensboro City School Board, and would later serve on the Greensboro City Council. Until 2016, the only voters who need to show some kind of ID at the polls are the new or first-time voters in a county whose registration could not be finalized because of some incomplete information on the registration form. When they go to the polls, voters may show any photo ID or a non-photo ID document, such as a utility bill with the voter’s address, a bank statement, or a notice, permit, or letter from any government agency. It’s generally smart to carry a photo ID or other ID document with you. Alma is a former educator, a mother of two, and an active member of the New Zion Baptist Church. She has been endorsed by numerous community leaders and organizations, including EMILY’s List, Planned Parenthood, NARAL, the AFL-CIO, NC Fire Fighters, and the North Carolina Association of Educators. Candidate Statement: I’m a mother, grandmother, educator, and legislator. From the classroom to the capitol, I’ve spent my life taking on Page 7 NC GENERAL ASSEMBLY CANDIDATES Members of the NC House and NC Senate adopt laws on issues that affect everyone in the state, from child care to standards for justice. Because the majority party controls drawing district lines, many districts are not competitive and only one candidate is on the ballot. NC SENATE - DISTRICT 37 Jeff Jackson (D) Candidate is unopposed NC SENATE - DISTRICT 38 Richard Rivette (R) Email: [email protected] Website: www.voterivette.biz Occupation: Marketing Services Background/Experience: Business executive with over 30 years experience helping build companies from startups. Worked with large multi-million dollar projects, so I understand how to eliminate waste and fraud, while balancing budgets. Devoted a portion of my life to community service since I came from humble beginnings. Instead of telling people to trust me in office, I stand alone by not accepting lobbyist dollars, and by specifically enumerating my positions, presenting plans to solve problems. A leader should know what they want to accomplish for the district, not just say they will do a good job as my opponent touts. See my entire background at www.voterivette.biz Unlike my opponent, I WILL meet and listen to voters. Our current Senator had one townhall in April 2013. I believe we need constant interaction so the people are represented. I want to go to Raleigh for the people, not as a purchased voice for others. List three important political/civic accomplishments: I have helped guide a group of young men towards achieving their Eagle scout awards, as well as worked with others to earn Honor Society membership. I taught them how to build their own entrepreneurial venture to fund their own camp, equipment and other needs, instead of asking parents for money. By instilling a work ethic and higher aspirations in scouts I believe we can make a difference in the future. Additionally, I worked hard to support common sense solutions to difficult economic challenges in our state. I hope to expand upon that as your next State Senator. What are three important issues you want to address? 1. Support middle income job creation by making North CaroPage 8 lina the most attractive state on the East Coast. a. By overhauling the entire tax structure and eliminating impediments to growth and investment. b. Improve the Community college system for trades, support lower costs, tuition, eliminate fees. Increase CC budgets for transitional training for vets and long-term unemployed. (e.g. welding, plumbing, electric, framing, masonry, trades, steam fitting, manufacturing, computer networking, project management, CNC machining, pharmacy and medical assistance.) 2. Support Small Business entrepreneurs / relieve red tape community level, review regulations. a. Create incubation centers as I proposed in 2011. b. Become a global player in import/export using our major cities as hubs. c. Apprentice position incentives for college students, vets, and long-term unemployed. d. Prison rehabilitation programs for targeted training in semi- to higher-skilled jobs that exist. 3. Improve public education with extensive 20 point plan I proposed in 2011. Joel Ford (D) Email: [email protected] Website: votejoelford.com Occupation: Operations Executive StoneLaurel Background/Experience: He currently is the business operations executive for StoneLaurel in Charlotte. He began his professional career with Waste Management of Atlanta, GA, then returned to Charlotte, NC. While substitute teaching in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, he developed a business plan to launch his own waste management company. An entrepreneur at heart, Joel has owned several businesses including the waste hauling company, restaurant, barbershop and salon. He was born in Charlotte, NC, raised in Belmont, NC (Gaston County) and received a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1992 from North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University (NCA&T) in Greensboro, NC, List up to three of your most important political/civic accomplishments in the last five years. Joel is a former Charlotte Housing Authority commissioner chair for the City of Charlotte, served on the Stratford-Richardson YMCA board of directors, and is on the school leadership team (SLT) at Myers Park Traditional Elementary School. Joel served as chair of the Mecklenburg County Democratic Party from 2008-11. He graduated from the Institute of Political Leadership (2009) and Leadership North Carolina, Class X What are the three most important issues in your district that you want to address if elected? When I ran for the North Carolina Senate District 38 in 2012, part of my platform was to bring a common-sense approach to state government and advance bipartisan efforts to reform our outdated tax code. We need to reduce the rate, expand the base and close the loopholes to make our tax system more equitable and efficient. As a Senator for the people of North Carolina, I know that we must move our state forward. To build a state that attracts investment, cultivates research and innovation, provides public education to all of our citizenry, and creates a safe and nurturing environment for all ourfamilies. Our best is yet to come, and my promise to you is that I will be a leader in achieving that positive direction. North Carolina can again be a beacon-not only for the New South but also for the nation. NC SENATE - DISTRICT 39 Robert (Bob) Rucho (R) Candidate is unopposed NC SENATE - DISTRICT 40 Joyce Waddell (D) Candidate is unopposed NC SENATE - DISTRICT 41 Jeff Tarte (R) Email: [email protected] Website: www.jefftarte.com Occupation: Chairman Emeritus of Applied Revenue Analytics, a healthcare IT consulting firm. Background/Experience: This last session my colleagues and I have been fighting to create a path to prosperity for North Carolinians. Our pro-business legislation has resulted in North Carolina having the 2nd fastest dropping unemployment rate in the nation, changed our state from being the 46th worst tax climate for business up to 11th best, as well as now having the highest compensated teachers in state history. We have made progress for our businesses, community, and citizens. I look forward to continuing to fight for North Carolina families in the NC Senate. List three important political/civic accomplishments: -Fixed the flawed 2011 Mecklenburg County Property Tax Revaluation -Increased pay for all teachers in North Carolina, while cutting taxes for everyone. -Increased education spending every year I have been in office. I am proud of the work we have done in the North Carolina Senate. What are three important issues you want to address? Education: I wish to address teacher pay, per pupil expenditure, and strategic investments in higher education in the next biennium. We should find ways to increase spending on all of these items, while also making sure to introduce more accountability into the system Economy: I want North Carolina to be able to work with its business community to make sure we are not letting government get in the way of creating jobs. We have had several rounds of regulatory reform in North Carolina. I will continue the effort to make North Carolina the best place to own or start a business. Infrastructure: I will continue to work with my colleagues to make sure North Carolina has the infrastructure needed to make us the leader in growth across the nation. My goal is to enable our state to be able to continue to reinvest in itself. Latrice McRae (D) Email: [email protected] Website: www.latricemcrae.com Occupation: Business Owner Cason McRae Consultants Background/Experience: I am a working and active parent who has the experience managing and prioritizing, which will allow me to be an efficient and effective leader as a legislator. I am a small business owner who can deliver common sense solutions in Raleigh that would be fiscal responsible but fair and understanding to working families. I am an accountant who can recognize when laws don’t add up for families in Mecklenburg County. My profession will allow me the skill set to help balance the state budget, without balancing it on the backs of hardworking North Carolinian’s, but by identifying inefficiencies in state government that can be improved. List three important political/civic accomplishments: I am the candidate in district 41 that sincerely understands the daily challenges facing today’s family. I am the candidate who is in touch with the working families and who is truly committed to effectively advocating for you and the issues that impacts our daily lives. My interests are only to serve the people, not for politically advancement. I am a parent, accountant and small business owner who will take these experiPage 9 Latrice McRae (D) - cont’d ences to Raleigh and advocate for families beginning with education, jobs and small business. I will nurture a better way, I am committed to a new day. What are three important issues you want to address? The key areas of my campaign are adequate jobs, quality education and resources for small businesses. We have seen NC regress over the last few years due to the decisions of our current legislators. More families lack of adequate jobs, causing a hardship in the homes. Public education has suffered due to drastic budget cuts, thus paralyzing our schools. Small businesses are finding it more challenging to thrive due to unavailable resources, which have been redirected to big business. When elected, I will make sure education, jobs and small businesses are accounted for. NC HOUSE - DISTRICT 88 Rob Bryan (R) Email: [email protected] Website: friendsofrob.com Occupation: Attorney, Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice Background/Experience: My wife Dottie and I are longtime residents of Charlotte. We have six children and attend Uptown Church. I’m a graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill and Duke University Law School and currently practice law. Before serving as an attorney, I taught with Teach For America in inner city Los Angeles. List three important political/civic accomplishments: In my first year of office, I worked to pass the largest tax cut in state history, which returns $1 billion to the taxpayers over the next 5 years. As a result, the nonpartisan Tax Foundation improved our tax climate from 44th worst to 17th best nationally. I also led the effort to streamline our regulatory system, so red tape would no longer impede small businesses from growing. We also prevented outdated and overlapping regulations from occurring by creating a sunset date for every rule. Now, Rich States, Poor States ranks North Carolina with the 6th best economic outlook. What are three important issues you want to address? For the last several years, state government hasn’t worked well. I’m working to reform the way it works, putting an emphasis on results. The Charlotte Observer applauded my efforts to lead a new way and called me one of the “strong thinkers” who is standing up to his party. With six kids and my classroom experience, I am determined to improve our public schools right away. In my first term, my efforts to improve teacher salaries earned bipartisan support, Page 10 including CMS Teacher of the Year, Democratic Rep. Tricia Cotham. I am currently working with NC Teacher of the Year, James Ford, to identify the best evidence-based strategies to pay, evaluate, and retain teachers. Working together, we can improve our schools to prepare each child for the modern workforce. Margie Storch (D) Email: [email protected] Website: www.MargieStorch.com Occupation: I hold two part time jobs: Director of Development for House of Mercy (nonprofit AIDS residence) Self-employed Graphic Designer Background/Experience: I am the mother of two children, a small business owner, a nonprofit director and have worked in political campaigns and as a community volunteer for three decades. I believe representatives should serve their constituents, not monied special interests! My professional qualifications include: Design team for an international management consulting firm (Hay Group); Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Instructional Design Center; NC field organizer for the Equal Rights Amendment campaign; Self-employed graphic designer; Development director of a nonprofit. My community leadership includes: Mecklenburg County Personnel Commission; Founder - Families and Aspergers Support; Leadership Charlotte; Business Opportunity Network - Charlotte Chamber of Commerce; President - National Organization for Women, Charlotte Chapter; Executive Committee - NC Democratic Party; CMS Leadership Team - Park Road School; Task Force - Charlotte-Mecklenburg Community Relations Committee; President - Penn State Association of Women Students. Graduate (Design Major) of Pennsylvania State University’s College of Arts & Architecture. Graduate (Salutatorian) of Camp Hill HS, PA. List three important political/civic accomplishments: 1. As the mother of a child with special needs, I educated schools about autism and founded support groups for families dealing with autism. 2. I provided in-kind/low-cost design and communications to help elect women to public office. Women compose less than 1/4 of the NC House. I believe our legislature will make better decisions with diverse representation. 3. I’ve been an active volunteer with PTA/PTOs of Chantilly, Dilworth, and Park Road Schools and Charlotte Secondary School. I also promoted Chinese culture (my adopted daughter’s heritage) through the Little Lotus Dance Troupe. What are three important issues you want to address? I will be an independent voice for NC House 88! As your representative, I will listen to stakeholders and work to find common ground to: √ Invest more in public education; Respect and pay teachers as professionals. (My opponent slashed education funding per pupil - NC ranks 48th in the US - and he approved public funds for private school vouchers) √ Promote economic security for the middle class: Increase skilled job training; Raise the minimum wage; Increase access to affordable healthcare. (My opponent cut education and social services to give big tax breaks to the wealthy and corporations; He cut unemployment benefits; Denied medicaid for 500,000 citizens; Restricted women’s access to birth control and reproductive healthcare.) Robin Bradford (D) Email: [email protected] Website: www.robinbradfordnc.com Occupation: Retired from Fidelity Investments (Boston Coach Div.) as Operations Director Currently a Business Consultant Background/Experience: Attended CW Post Long Island Univ. - Political Science/ Communications List three important political/civic accomplishments: Chairing the Mecklenburg County Democratic Party. Under my leadership I turned the Party’s financial negative to a positive by raising over $12,000 and paying off debt created by the previous Chair. √ Protect our water, land and air; Support renewable energies. I prepare and feed the Homeless/Community every Saturday for the pass 10 years at Little Rock AME Zion Church (My opponent weakened protections of natural resources, relaxed landfill rules, expanded areas for coal ash chemicals, supported fracking.) I facilitate Self Esteem Building workshops for Women, Men, Teens and Couples for over 10 years See for yourself: http://votesmart.org/candidate/136373 NC HOUSE - DISTRICT 92 Charles Jeter (R) Email: [email protected] Website: www.votejeter.com Occupation: President of Intermodal FCL, a trucking a logistics company I started in 2004 Background/Experience: B.A. in Business Economics from Wofford College (1995) North Carolina House of Representatives (2013-current) Huntersville Town Board (2005-2012) Past Member of the Board of Directors for... Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce, Lake Norman Transportation Committee, Visit Lake Norman, Arts & Science Council, Huntersville School Advisory Council, Centralina Council of Government, United Way of Lake Norman List three important political/civic accomplishments: Received Emerging Leader Award from the North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association in 2014. Ranked as the 44th most influential legislator by the NCPPR. First freshman in 2013 to be given a gavel to Chair a Committee in the NC House of Representatives. What are three important issues you want to address? Education - Continuing to improve teacher compensation, working to move away from testing and back to allowing teachers more freedom in the classroom and increasing digital learning and STEM based educational training. What are three important issues you want to address? Education Environmental Healthcare/Women Health Rights Economy/Jobs Voter Suppression Law I understand that these are more then three but these issues have not been addressed nor voted on by the General Assembly in respect of District 92 nor the citizens of North Carolina. We are currently living in a “State of Regression” & needs to STOP! NC HOUSE - DISTRICT 98 John R. Bradford, III (R) Email: [email protected] Website: www.ElectBradford.com Occupation: CEO & Founder - Park Avenue Properties (2003 - Current); Sales Executive/Manager - IBM (2000 - 2010); Sr. Environmental Engineer - ExxonMobil (1996 - 2000) Background/Experience: I believe my family, faith, corporate experience and public service have uniquely prepared me to serve in the NC House of Representatives. I have been married to my high school sweetheart for 13 years and we have four children. We are also members of St. Mark’s Catholic Church. I have worked for the largest companies in their respective industries, ExxonMobil & IBM. I am serving my second term as a Cornelius Town Commissioner. In this role, I have protected Page 11 John R. Bradford, III (R) - cont’d tax payers’ dollars by voting twice to lower and maintain our Town’s tax rate. I am a business owner. My firm is headquartered in District 98 and I have created over 50 new jobs. My formula for success is based on the old fashioned way of doing things: a lot of determination, many long days and nights, plenty of hard work, a common sense approach and absolutely no government assistance. List three important political/civic accomplishments: - Recognized and awarded as the “Most Business Friendly Town Commissioner” by the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce - Recognized and awarded as the “Business Person of the Year” by the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce - Saving the Cornelius taxpayers over $2 Million dollars by not settling for a proposed aesthetic bridge design with a $4 Million cost estimate. I refused to settle and take “no” for an answer. I personally led the effort to find and deliver an alternative bridge design that was unanimously selected and hailed as a timeless design. The cost estimate was only $2 Million - a 50% savings. What are three important issues you want to address? - Education: We need to ensure we are paying our teachers competitively so North Carolina can retain & recruit top rated educators today to teach our children tomorrow. I believe we need to first reform our education system and then invest in the tools, talent, and time needed to make our students successful from when they first enter the public education system until graduation from NC Universities. - Business: NC needs to be competitive in attracting new business & retaining current businesses. The top challenge facing NC is the continued need for business growth/expansion while removing the unnecessary regulatory burdens on our business owners. I intend to help reform our regulatory and tax codes to create jobs in NC. - Infrastructure: The challenge facing our state is an infrastructure system that is in much need of increased strategic investment. I will support more funding in urban & high density areas that greatly need greater infrastructure. Natasha Marcus (D) Email: [email protected] Website: www.NatashaMarcus.com Occupation: Attorney, Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey & Leonard. Judicial Clerk, Honorable Frank W. Bullock, Jr., U.S. District Court. Background/Experience: I received a B.A. summa cum laude in public policy from Hamilton College in 1991 and earned a law degree with honors Page 12 from Duke University School of Law in 1994.My law degree and experience as an attorney have prepared me to be a strong advocate for the people I represent and to understand how laws impact the everyday lives of people. My experience as a mother of two teenagers has taught me the importance of budgeting, seeking balance, living within means, and that family support is the basis for success in school and in life. My experience as an active volunteer in various local schools and charities gives me first-hand knowledge about the needs and dedicated commitment of the people of this community. I am not committed to other paid work at this time, so representing the people of this district will be my full-time job. List three important political/civic accomplishments: Leading a team of volunteers to register to vote over 1,100 people in N Mecklenburg County prior to the 2012 Election. Helping hundreds of uninsured people get quality medical care by volunteering weekly at the Free Clinic of Our Towns in Davidson, NC Serving in many roles at my childrens’ schools, including PTA/ PTO rep, fundraising committees, media center volunteer, teacher appreciation committees, and room parent What are three important issues you want to address? - Supporting public education, from pre-K to college, and respecting and retaining quality teachers for our State. - Supporting small businesses, which create over 70 percent of the jobs in our state and make up the unique fabric of our communities, including creating a fairer tax structure for small businesses, working families and retirees. - Demanding fair treatment and transparency from the legislature and the NCDOT on transportation issues that impact our region. NC HOUSE UNCONTESTED RACES District 99 - Rodney W. Moore (D) District 100 - Tricia Cotham (D) District 101 - Beverly Miller Earle (D) District 102 - Becky Carney (D) District 103 - Bill Brawley (R) District 105 - Jacqueline Schaffer (R) District 107 - Kelly Alexander (D) NC HOUSE - DISTRICT 104 NC HOUSE - DISTRICT 106 Dan Bishop (R) Trey Lowe (R) Email: [email protected] Website: www.votedanbishop.com Occupation: Attorney Email: [email protected] Website: treylowe.com Occupation: Assistant National Account Manager Background/Experience: Lifetime resident of Charlotte. Graduate of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and two degrees from UNC-CH. 24 years of business litigation experience. Two-term former Mecklenburg County Commissioner. List three important political/civic accomplishments: n/a What are three important issues you want to address? Economic growth is the issue. Eric Cable (L) Email: [email protected] Website: www.EricCable.net Occupation: Business Process Analyst including Management Information Systems development and design in the Financial Services industry for past 14 years. Background/Experience: I served for ten years in the United State Navy. I have extensive experience as a volunteer administrator of various non-profit organizations. I was a member of the Board of the Candlewyck Homes Association for four years. I ran for the Charlotte City Council last year. List three important political/civic accomplishments: I was one of the founders of the Charlotte Curling Association in 2010. After playing on hockey ice for four years, we will open the first curling facility in the Carolinas in November. As a member of my HOA board I helped change the way the organization managed its budget which led to an increase in reserves and allowed for some much-needed improvements in the neighborhood. I am very proud of my involvement in the Freemasons in the community. This organization has a long and proud history in Charlotte and North Carolina as a whole. What are three important issues you want to address? Reduce and eliminate legislative social intolerance. I believe in equal treatment for all including marriage equality, equal pay for women, and eliminating discrimination. Improve the employment market in the state by lowering taxes on employers. Fully fund our schools and make our schools a place both teachers and students want to be. No Photo Background/Experience: Auburn University - Bachelor in Business Administration Wingate University - MBA with dual concentrations in Finance and Healthcare Administration I’ve had a career which has encompassed administration, management and sales over several fields. I believe this diverse background (which always centered around business) will be very beneficial to our state. We need more business minded people running our budgets. If this were the case our leaders would realize what a deficit is and very simple ways to avoid them. Allocation of tax funds need to be done correctly as to give back the most to the people who pay them every year. List three important political/civic accomplishments: n/a What are three important issues you want to address? - Increase education spending (i.e. teacher pay, after school programs, improved facilities, technical programs) - Decrease taxes for the working class and small businesses. - Institute better prison reform programs. It costs a lot of money to keep prisoners housed every year. We need programs which will help train and employ these former inmates to help them from going back to prison and living off the taxpayers dime. Carla Cunningham (D) Email: [email protected] Website: www.carlacunningham2012.com Occupation: Registered Nurse, Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing Background/Experience: I have practiced as a health care professional since 1981 in North Carolina. In 1981, I graduated from Central Piedmont Community College LPN Diploma Program. In 1996, I graduated from Gaston College obtaining an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing. In 2009, I graduated from Winston Salem State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing with honors. I have practiced in multiple nursing fields, Intensive Care, Coronary Care, Medical-Surgical, Pediatrics, Geriatrics, Home-Health, Industrial Nursing, Nursing Education, and Hospice Care. Page 13 Carla Cunningham (D) - cont’d My nursing experience and my community involvement as a community activist have allowed me to be a servant in this community. Additionally, these experiences allowed me to sharpen my critical thinking skills and to develope and strenghthen new and old relationships with individuals. I tend to focus on issues, values, facts, and outcomes when making important decisions. List three important political/civic accomplishments: 1. I was appointed and served on the NC Commission for Mental Health, Developmental Disabilites, and Substance Abuse Services. 2. I was Co-Chair of the Charlotte Health Care Coalition that supported healthcare for all citizens in the United States. 3. I continue to advocate for Mental Health, Women, and Children in our community and the state. What are three important issues you want to address? Jobs/Equality Issues Health Care Public Education REFERENDA Countywide NC Constitutional Amendment Mecklenburg County Sales And Use Tax Constitutional amendment providing that a person accused of any criminal offense for which the State is not seeking a sentence of death in superior court may, in writing or on the record in court and with the consent of the trail judge, waive the person’s rights to a trial by jury. Local sales and use tax at the rate of one-quarter percent (0.25%) in addition to all other State and local sales and use taxes. City of Charlotte Charlotte Public Improvement Bonds SHALL the order authorizing $110,965,000 of bonds plus interest to provide funds to pay the capital costs of constructing, reconstructing, enlarging, extending and improving certain streets, including streets and roads constituting a part of the State highway system or otherwise the responsibility of the State and including the cost of related studies, streetscape and pedestrian improvements, relocation of utilities, plans and design; acquiring, constructing, reconstructing, widening, extending, paving, resurfacing, grading or improving streets, roads, intersections, parking lots and pedestrian bicycle paths; acquiring, constructing, reconstructing or improving sidewalks, curbs, gutters, drains, bridges, overpasses, underpasses and grade crossings and providing related landscaping, lighting and traffic controls, signals and markers; and the acquisition of land and rights-of-way in land required therefor, and providing that additional taxes may be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal and interest on the bonds be approved? Charlotte Housing Bonds SHALL the order authorizing $15,000,000 of bonds plus interest to provide funds to pay the capital costs of acquiring, constructing, developing, equipping and furnishing housing projects for the benefit of persons of low income, or moderate income, or low and moderate income, including without Page 14 limitation loans, grants, interest supplements and other programs of financial assistance to persons of low income, or moderate income, or low and moderate income, and developers of housing for persons of low income, or moderate income, or low and moderate income, and construction of infrastructure improvements related thereto and the acquisition of land and rights-of-way required therefor, and providing that additional taxes may be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal and interest on the bonds be approved? Charlotte Neighborhood Improvement Bonds SHALL the order authorizing $20,000,000 of bonds plus interest to provide funds to pay the capital costs of infrastructure improvements in various neighborhoods of the City, including the cost of related studies, plans and design; acquiring, constructing, reconstructing, improving, installing or providing curbs, gutters, storm drainage and sidewalks; paving, resurfacing, grading or improving streets, roads and intersections; and providing related landscaping and lighting and acquiring any necessary equipment, land, interests in land and rights-of-way therefor, and providing that additional taxes may be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal and interest on the bonds be approved? MECKLENBURG COUNTY LOCAL CANDIDATES County commissioners and other local officials set the policies that are closest to voters, including the school budget, zoning decisions, environmental health, and the local judicial system. BOARD OF CO. COMMISSIONERS AT-LARGE - vote for 3 Scott Carlisle (R) Email: [email protected] Website: www.scott4meck.com Occupation: Commercial Real Estate Appraiser, previously worked for as a general contractor. Background/Experience: After observing the recent divisiveness on the current board, I want to help bring balance and civility back to our county government. I was born and raised in Mecklenburg County and have a clear understanding of the challenges facing our community today. I want to use my personal and professional experience to better serve and help our citizens. Through responsible fiscal policies we can aid in our community’s continued growth and success. I’m not here to represent one narrow interest or idea, I am running to advance the interests of Mecklenburg County and everyone that calls her home, both now and in the future. My unique personal experiences as a former home builder and now a commercial real estate appraiser makes me especially suited for the issues facing our community like the botched revaluation and problems with the county building inspections which hampers development and slows our economy. List three important political/civic accomplishments: 1. Served as both the Chairman of the Young Republicans and Campaign Chair for the Mecklenburg County GOP. 2. Volunteered with great organizations such as Beds for Kids, Charlotte Rescue Mission, Habitat for Humanity and the Adopt a Highway program. Volunteering is one of the most civic duties any citizens should be involved in. 3. Got Married to the love of my life Kelly Carlisle in the church where we met when we were only three years old. Kelly is a pediatric nurse in the NICU at Levines Children’s Hospital and my biggest supporter. How can you best represent all of Mecklenburg County? I was born and raised right here in Mecklenburg County, and I want to serve the community that has given me so much. I want to represent all 1 million people that call Mecklenburg County home, and be their voice of practical politics on the board. I believe that a good idea does not have a party affiliation, and I want to listen to the people. I have never been a straight ticket voter because if either of the parties were correct on all subjects, we would only have a one party system. I believe in working across the aisle to advance the quality of life in our county and to listen to both sides before making an informed decision. Emily Zuyus (R) Email: [email protected] Website: www.emilyzuyus.com Occupation: My husband and I own Carolina Staffing Consultants -- a recruiting company that specializes in the accounting industry. Background/Experience: I have a varied business background. I have worked in the banking industry for a mid-sized regional bank where I was a marketing manager and a retail branch manager. I have also worked for a large corporation in an outside sales function. Currently, my husband and I are small business owners of a recruiting firm – I manage the financial aspects of our business. We are CMS parents and I have volunteered for over nine years with my daughters’ schools. I also have leadership experience as an elder for my church and I am president of a homeowner’s association. I have the communication skills and business acumen to add value to our board of county commissioners. List three important political/civic accomplishments: In 2011, Mecklenburg County assigned new values to over 300,000 real estate properties (2011 Revaluation). These values determine our tax bills and approximately 1/3 of these values resulted in an illegal tax hike to thousands of citizens. I have spent the past several years fighting for the taxpayers to get this revaluation fixed. I have had countless meetings with Mecklenburg County officials, commissioners, and citizens to work for a resolution. This involvement led me to want to represent the citizens on the county commission. I will use the same tenacity and drive for the betterment of Mecklenburg County. How can you best represent all of Mecklenburg County? I was very disappointed when trying to get the 2011 Revaluation fixed, that some of our commissioners were not engaged. My emails were not returned by some and my only ability to communicate with these commissioners was to show up at a meeting and address the group at the dais. This is not acceptable to me. I commit to holding one citizen meeting a month in different locations all over the county to hear the concerns of the citizens -- and not just in an election year. An At Large commissioner should be accessible to all citizens. Page 15 Patricia (Pat) Cotham (D) Email: [email protected] Website: www.patcotham.com Occupation: Worked at a non-profit helping persons with a criminal record find jobs Background/Experience: Knowledge of Mental Health, Poverty, Struggles of families, Business Owner, Trustee at the Blumenthal Performing arts Center, HIV AIDS Council, President of the Democratic Women three times, Received leadership awards from the Democratic Party, one of seven DNC members for NC, Served on Boards of Chamber of Commerce, Center City Partners and several others, active in St. Matthew Catholic Church, List three important political/civic accomplishments: Chair of the Uptown Democratic Forum for14 years Distinguished Democratic Woman of the Year 2013 Grassroots Democratic Leader of the Year 2012 How can you best represent all of Mecklenburg County? I do that now by meeting with Mayors from the Small towns, attending town halls, and events throughout the county. I am active on social media more than other candidates. Citizens often say “you are everywhere” and Iam Trevor M. Fuller (D) Email: [email protected] Website: www.votetrevorfuller.com Occupation: I am an attorney, and I have been practicing law for the past 22 years. Background/Experience: I received my undergraduate degree from Hamilton College in upstate New York, and my law degree from Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C. Since 2012, I have served as a County Commissioner At Large, and for the last year as chairman of the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners. List three important political/civic accomplishments: In the past two years I have been in office: (1) I have led the effort to bring about the proper funding of our educational system, particularly our teachers; (2) we have adopted a strategic agenda for the county; (3) I have led the effort to create a comprehensive and coherent economic development policy and plan for the first time in Mecklenburg County; (4) I led the board in hiring our new county manager by unanimous vote; and (5) through respectful and capable leadership, the Board of County Commissioners has gotten back on track. How can you best represent all of Mecklenburg County? Mecklenburg County is poised for tremendous economic growth and vitality. Strong, steady, and effective leadership is Page 16 critical to continuing our path toward this greater prosperity. As Chairman, I have used my leadership abilities to help the Board of County Commissioners develop and build consensus around commonsense solutions to difficult problems. When nearly 25% of the residents in Mecklenburg County receive services from the Department of Social Services, it is critical that we focus on economic development as the key to creating jobs in our community so that we can move people from dependency to self-sufficiency. As a county commissioner at large, I am directly accountable to all 1 million people who call Mecklenburg County home. So I’m running for re-election to continue to help solve the big problems we face as a community. Ella B. Scarborough (D) Email: [email protected] Website: www.ellascarborough.com Occupation: Adjunct Professor CPCC Background/Experience: A servant of the people serving ten years on the Charlotte City Council, former President of the North Carolina League of Municipalities, served on the Uptown Development Corporation Committee, Chaired the Housing Committee and several Ad Hoc Committees while on the City Council. Served in many leadership positions in my profession: member of Special Libraries Association - Chaired the Public Utility Section, locally served as President of the Metrolina Librarian Association. Worked in many leadership roles at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. List three important political/civic accomplishments: Served as President of the Matthews Chapter of Zeta Phi Bêta Sorority, Inc., Chaired Social Action and the Election Committees Nationally, and served on Committees on the State and Regional levels of the Sorority. Chairs the Prayer Breakfast for Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, sang on the Church Choir, Scholarship Committee and the Phillip& Phoebe Ministries. May 2013 received the Masters of Science In Organizational Leadership from the University of Charleston West Virginia. How can you best represent all of Mecklenburg County? Work with Staff, my colleagues and the citizens of Mecklenburg County on solutions to help make Our County the BEST place to live and raise a family. Attending constituents meeting is my way of staying in touch with what is on their agenda then make recommendations to my colleagues on the Commission to enhance or change policies. BOARD OF CO. COMMISSIONERS - DISTRICT 1 Jim Puckett (R) Email: [email protected] Website: www.jimpuckett.com Occupation: Owner / President Long Creek Industrial Services Inc. (Electo Painters Ceiling Pro) Background/Experience: UNCC Bachelors Business/Marketing/Operations, Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners, Budget Committee, Efficiency Committee, Mecklenburg County Economic Development Committee (Chair), County Manager Review Committee (Chair) Environmental Committee, Mecklenburg County Board of Health, Mecklenburg County Board of Area Mental Health, Mecklenburg County Board of Social Services, Centralina Economic Development Commission (Chair), Mecklenburg-Union Metropolitan Planning Organization (MUMPO), Charlotte Mecklenburg Planning Liaison Commission, Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools Board of Education, Budget Committee, Facilities Committee (Chair) Policy Committee, Citizens for Effective Government Board, Host of Speak Out Charlotte Cable TV 21, WTVI Board, Lake Norman Charter School Board, Historic Rural Hill Board Board of Advisors: May 20th Society, Brookstone Home Owners Association President Nathanial Alexander Elementary School PTSA President, Long Creek Industrial Services Inc Owner (2007- Present), Southeast Electrostatic Owner / Chairman (2008-2013), Electro Painters Inc. Carolinas Regional Manager (1992-2007), Mitchell’s Formal Wear Carolinas Operations Manager (1984-1992) List three important political/civic accomplishments: As board member of Historic Rural Hill we expanded the facilities and events at the site that has led to a tremendous growth in economic impact for Northern Mecklenburg County. As an Elder at Hopewell Presbyterian Church chaired the Long Range Strategic Planning Committee that examined and realigned the mission of the church and the staffing and programs needed to meet those mission objectives. With my wife supported the education of my eldest daughter resulting in a brand new Public School Middle School Science Teather What are three important issues you want to address? Lowest Responsible Tax Rates with Priority Based Budgeting: We have Constitutional, Federal and State mandated spending as well as quality of life mandates. , ALL additional discretionary spending should be prioritized, have the financial impact on the taxpayer displayed and then voted on individually. Efficient, Open, and Accountable Governance: This shouldn’t be an issue but with the recent disclosure of scheduling of officials to discuss Tolls so as to avoid open meetings laws it is apparent there is little appreciation for the public’s right to know currently on display in North Mecklenburg. Parent and Student Centered School Management: The Board of County Commissioners holds the checkbook to a substantial portion of Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) funding. We need to make certain that continued financial support will come with demonstrated success in those areas PARENTS deem important. Leonard Richardson (D) Email: richardsoncampaign@gmail. com Website: www.vote4richardson.com Occupation: Charlotte Mecklenburg School teacher Background/Experience: Growing up in foster care as well as experiencing poverty and the supportive resources the county provides gives me a unique perspective on the value and purpose of our county services. I along with countless others have been given the tools necessary to get my education and to be cared for through food stamps, Medicaid, and monthly financial assistance checks. This along with being a teacher in CMS makes me the perfect choice for the citizens of District One. We deserve representation that is focused on serving everyone and involving all citizens in moving our district forward with fresh collaborative ideas. List three important political/civic accomplishments: My career as a teacher affords me the opportunity to make a real difference in our community with our children. My wife and I recently organized a Christmas party for the foster children at Elon Homes for children. We also give clothes and help serve food at New Christian Outreach Ministries. What are three important issues you want to address? Three of the most important issues in District One is Education, small business investment, and effective leadership. Investing in our students and teachers is paramount in securing the future of our children and community. We must also invest in our community members who start and run small business to help them hire additional workers and provide higher wages which both will stimulate the local economy and create more jobs like falling dominoes. And finally effective leadership is needed which requires visibility and accessibility to the constituents and local leaders in order to communicate and collaborate on the issues and concerns affecting District One. As your District One Commissioner I will work with you and for you to find the best solutions to move our county and district forward with stronger communities built on strong education and a vibrant small business economy because of the effective leadership that will bring! Page 17 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS UNCONTESTED RACES District 2 - Vilma D. Leake (D) District 3 - George Dunlap (D) District 4 - Dumont Clarke (D) District 6 - Bill James wr (R) BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS - DISTRICT 5 Matthew Ridenhour (R) Email: [email protected] Website: www.voteridenhour.com Occupation: Operations Management Consultant Background/Experience: I received my bachelors degree from AIU in Atlanta, and am currently pursuing my MBA at Liberty University. I am an experienced operations manager, with strengths in budgeting, process improvement, and personnel management. Having served for eleven years in the military, I know how to make tough decisions with the best available information, as we are often required to do in government service. I also believe that the experience I gained in the last two years of service on the County Commission was invaluable. It was a period of great change and transition, and the lessons learned will help me be an effective leader during future challenges. List three important political/civic accomplishments: 1. I am the Chair of the Economic Development Committee, and we are well on our way towards crafting a new economic development policy, and are working on creative ways to improve the business climate. 2. I am very pleased that we were able to find such a good Tax Assessor, to guide us through the challenging time of correcting the 2011 tax revaluation. 3. Voted for giving teachers bonuses, while also cutting taxes last year. It failed a 5-4 vote, but I am proud of finding a solution to a difficult issue. Page 18 What are three important issues you want to address? 1. Jobs and Economic Development-- Though things are certainly improving, and we see the unemployment numbers steadily dropping, too many people are still failing to find work. While government cannot create jobs, we can certainly improve the climate to allow the private sector to flourish. 2. Education/Workforce Development-- Although the State recently increased teacher salaries by an average of 7%, we can still increase our local supplement to further increase teacher pay. This local supplement is our tool to recruit the best and brightest to Mecklenburg. Additionally, we need ensure that we have effective programs for linking job training programs with actual jobs. 3. Efficient Government-- Folks want government that is efficient, effective, and responsive. Our new County Manager has made a number of changes within the County which will help push us to reaching that goal. I will work towards continuing to improve government operations. Art Cardenas (D) Email: [email protected] Website: ElectArtCardenas.wordpress.com Occupation: Business Intelligence Developer Background/Experience: 24 years experience in Information Services List three important political/civic accomplishments: Candidate Mecklenburg County Commission, District #5 (South Charlotte) Volunteer Central Church of God Volunteer St.Peter’s Catholic Church What are three important issues you want to address? Public Transportation / Traffic Property Taxes Security in trouble neighbourhoods DISTRICT ATTORNEY - D. 26 Andrew Murray (R) Candidate is unopposed CLERK OF SUPERIOR COURT Martha Efird (R) Email: [email protected] Website: www.efird4clerk.com Occupation: Attorney with Moore & Van Allen, PLLC, Litigation Team Background/Experience: As a former Assistant Clerk of Superior Court, I presided over thousands of guardianship, foreclosure and estate matters which are within the Clerk’s jurisdiction. I managed personnel and operations of the Estates and Special Proceedings Divisions that included knowledge of the receipting and disbursements of funds managed by the Clerk. Before joining the Clerk’s office, I maintained a private practice for 14 years. My practice included civil, criminal, estate, real estate and guardianship matters. I developed management skills while working with Piedmont Airlines/USAirways for 7 years in operational and management positions. Last fall, I joined Moore & Van Allen where I support the litigation and other attorneys in state court procedure and matters before and involving the Clerks Offices,the judicial assistants, and the court administrators in counties across our state. I possess the skills and have legal, administrative and judicial experience that qualifies me for the office List three important political/civic accomplishments: (1) Serving on the Charlotte and Metro District Executive Team for United Methodist Women whose purpose and work supports women, children and youth throughout the world; (2) Serving and supporting the USO of North Carolina; (3) Prevailing in the 2014 Republican Primary to become the Republican Candidate for Mecklenburg County Clerk of Superior Court with a margin of 73% to 27% and continuing the efforts to be elected Mecklenburg County Clerk of Superior Court. What improvements would you make as Mecklenburg County Clerk of Superior Court? As Mecklenburg County Clerk of Superior Court, I will manage the processes, procedures and people with the professionalism and integrity demonstrated by our current Clerk and her predecessors. I will work with all available and appropriate resources to ensure that the available technology is fully utilized in all areas. I will bring energy, commitment and action in listening to staff, other court officials, the Bar, paralegals and citizens to evolve and develop processes and procedures so they are relevant and current while ensuring that the duties and responsibilities are efficiently, properly and faithfully carried out to serve all. Elisa Chinn Gary (D) Email: [email protected] Website: www.elisachinngary.com Occupation: Educator, Attorney & North Carolina Court Administrator Background/Experience: I proudly serve the Mecklenburg County community as the Administrator of the Juvenile & Family Court Division of the 26th Judicial District. Within the courts, my specific areas of oversight include the Family Court Case Management Unit, Child Custody & Permanency Mediation Programs, Family Law Facilitator Program and the Mecklenburg County SelfServe Center. I am also charged with providing administrative support to the Chief District Court Judge and the members of the District Court Bench in the areas of caseflow management; human resource management; education, training and development; information technology management; strategic planning; grant writing and project management. I hold a Masters in Social Work and a Juris Doctorate from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I have been licensed to practice law in NC since 1999. List three important political/civic accomplishments: I am the proud recipient of the prestigious Julius L. Chambers Diversity Champion Award, presented by the Mecklenburg County Bar to individuals who embody high ethical standards, unquestioned integrity, consistent competence and who champion diversity in the legal profession. I have received like honors from Justice Initiatives and UNC Charlotte Alpha Phi Honor Society. In collaboration with the Charlotte School of Law, I developed an experiential access to justice law clinic. It prepares students to provide legal information to those who cannot afford traditional legal representation. The clinic was recognized by the NC Bar Association for its excellence and service. What improvements would you make as Mecklenburg County Clerk of Superior Court? My vision to advance court excellence includes improving accessibility, collaboration, efficiency and redefining the culture of the office. (1) Accessibility. As the elected Clerk, I pledge to be accessible to my staff, other key court officials, members of the bar and the community. Greater accessibility equates to greater responsiveness. (2) Collaboration. I pledge to work collaboratively with the Judiciary and the Trial Court Administrator’s Office. My knowledge of the resources and capabilities of each of these branches, as well as my established collegial relationships therein, will enable me to work strategically to build an administration marked by intra-agency cooperation. (3) Efficiency. I pledge to focus on core administrative principles that define, promote and measure high performing courts including reduced delays, improved accuracy in data recording and increased reliability of case files. (4) Culture. I pledge to create a culture that deeply values its employees and public service. COUNTY SHERIFF Chris Hailey (R) Email: [email protected] Website: www.votehailey.com Occupation: Former Director of Public Safety Training, CPCC Page 19 Chris Hailey (R)- cont’d Background/Experience: With over 28 years of experience in public safety, I have served in the following positions: • Raleigh police officer • Trooper with the North Carolina State Highway • Director of Public Safety Training with CPCC I was appointed to the NC Community Corrections Advisory Board. I have a BS from Shaw University and an MS from Pfeiffer University. List three important political/civic accomplishments: I take pride in serving on numerous boards within Mecklenburg County as follows: • Member of the Board of Directors for the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce and the Northwest Chapter of the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce • Member of the Board of Directors for the Samaritan House • Member of the Board of Directors for Charlotte Mecklenburg Crime Stoppers • Member of Rotary International • Former volunteer with Mecklenburg County Guardian ad Litem Top three changes you would make as Sheriff: • Decentralize the Sheriff’s office and establish temporary detention facilities in the northern and southern ends of the county making it easier to conduct business and process arrestees. • Implement electronic visitation for inmates. This will allow attorneys and families to communicate with inmates remotely from the convenience of their offices and homes. • Establish a mentoring program for at-risk children in grades K-3 wherein law enforcement officers will serve as mentors. This program will help to keep our children on the right paths and out of the criminal justice system. Irwin Carmichael (D) Email: [email protected] Website: www.irwinforsheriff.com Occupation: Captain with Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office; Owner of Martial Arts Training Institute; Retired Charlotte Fire Department Background/Experience: • 28-Years with Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office • Successful Business Owner since 1983 • Currently Certified in Basic Law Enforcement Training (Sworn Law Enforcement Officer 28-years) • North Carolina Dept. of Corrections Unarmed Self Defense Instructor • North Carolina Sheriffs’ Standards Commission Full Limited Lecturer for Detention Officers • North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training Instructor Page 20 • 2011 Instructor of the Year-Central Piedmont Community College Basic Law Enforcement Training • Worked under and endorsed by Sheriff Jim Pendergraph and current Sheriff Chipp Bailey • Entire career of public service with CFD and Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office working in the community here in this county. • Published Author of “Success for Safety” and “Women’s Awareness Response” • Ninth Degree Black Belt in Shorinji Kempo Karate that demonstrates, not only focus and conviction to be the best, but the ability to achieve the highest of goals that I set for myself. List three important political/civic accomplishments: 1. Most important civic accomplishment was retiring from a wonderful career with the Charlotte Fire Department. 2. Although my full-time career was with the CFD, my volunteering with the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office was the most rewarding for civic duty to keeping this county safe. 3. On the private sector and through the Sheriff’s Office, I have been able to give seminars to over 100,000 people on safety, through the Sheriff’s Office and share self-defense to families, children and women to give them the confidence to “refuse to be a victim” as a volunteer. What are three important issues you want to address? 1. I want to build upon and improve current programs that will give inmates opportunities to build productive futures. These programs are self-funded and have no impact on the taxpayers and I want to keep finding new ways to foster opportunities without impacting the tax payers. 2. I want to reach out to kids before they reach our facilities. Right now, the Sheriff’s Office doesn’t have a chance to reach kids until the ages of 16-17 when they enter our facilities. I want to reach out to them before they enter our facility by building community programs with the schools, faith-based community and in the neighborhoods. 3. I want to improve the communication between different agencies within Mecklenburg County, to offer a mutual understanding of the way the law enforcement community can help each other serve the community better. Voting Rights Regained If you have a misdemeanor conviction, you never lose your right to vote, even if you are in jail. If you have a felony conviction, you temporarily lose your right to vote while serving your sentence. Once you have completed your sentence (including any probation or parole), you are eligible to register again and vote. Register like anyone else. No special paperwork is needed. SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT SUPERVISOR Nancy G. Carter Email: [email protected] Website: n/a Occupation: Retired No Photo Background/Experience: Service on the Mecklenburg Soil and Water Conservation District Board since Jan., 2012, currently Vice Chair, on the NC Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts Executive Committee, 2013 as Area VIII Chair, 2014 as Secretary. While on Charlotte City Council, Vice Chair and founding member of the Council’s Environment Committee and also chaired the NC League of Municipalities’ Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Committee (2 years), served on the National League of Cities EENR Committee for 8 years. Participated in the international Climate Prosperity Board. List three important political/civic accomplishments: As one of three women Council Members, succeeded in an environmental focus, including establishing the Council’s Environment Committee, and worked for Charlotte’s Street Ordinance, Tree Save Ordinance, focus on alternative means of transportation, such as more sidewalks, bike access, greenways, and ways to make our city run greener...green construction, more fuel efficiency, etc. What are three important issues you want to address? Partnering with our citizens, Soil and Water can impact our environment. We share funding for projects to improve farming efforts (yes, there are still over 200 farms in Mecklenburg County), help best management practices for the second largest agricultural income for a county in our state (our greenhouses and nurseries), and educate our children about the importance of conservation. Stream restoration and buffering can help our water quality and safety. We partner with the city and county as well as our individual landowners to work to slow water flow, maintain stream banks, deal with erosion. Shawn Greeson Candidate did not provide requested information. NON-PARTISAN JUDICIAL RACES Judges have tremendous power in our state. In many cases, they have the final say over policies that affect your life. The NC Constitution gives voters the power to elect judges. They run without party labels. Choose one candidate for each seat. NC SUPREME COURT CHIEF JUSTICE Mark Martin Ola M. Lewis Occupation: Chief Justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court Age: 51 Website: www.MartinforChiefJustice.com Email: [email protected] Occupation: Senior Resident Superior Court Judge, District 13 B Age: 49 Website: www.votejudgeola.com Email: [email protected] Personal Statement: Experience Matters. No person has ever been elected as Chief Justice who did not first serve on the NC Supreme Court. I am the only candidate in this race who has served on the NC Supreme Court or written an appellate decision. I have served on the Supreme Court for almost 16 years and authored over 400 appellate decisions. Personal Statement: I am committed to fairness, impartiality, an independent judiciary and abiding by the Constitution. I will lead the Court by setting a standard of transparency, people-centeredness, and dedication to the rule of law. The Supreme Court will work more efficiently to answer substantial issues of Constitutional law. I respectfully ask for your prayers, your support and your vote. Favorite Endorsements (1) Five former NC Chief Justices – members of both political parties (2) The NC Association of Educators (NCAE) (3) The North Carolina Advocates for Justice (NCAJ) Favorite Endorsements: n/a Page 21 NC SUPREME COURT ASSOCIATE JUSTICE (SEAT 1) Bob Hunter Sam J. Ervin IV Occupation: Supreme Court Justice Age: 67 Website: www.bobhunterforjustice.com Email: [email protected] Occupation: Judge, NC Court of Appeals Age: 58 Website: www.ErvinforSupremeCourt.com Email: [email protected] Personal Statement: My judicial philosophy is to be fair to all who appear before me and do justice in the decisions I render. I am currently a Justice on the Supreme Court, after serving on the Court of Appeals and practicing law. I would appreciate your vote in November. Find out more about me at my website. Personal Statement: The law is the glue that holds society together. However, the legal system cannot work properly without fair, impartial, and independent judges. My tenure on the State Utilities Commission and the Court of Appeals demonstrates that I can decide the cases before me fairly and impartially without political or ideological bias, which is what citizens deserve and should expect. Favorite Endorsements n/a Favorite Endorsements NC Association of Educators Fraternal Order of Police Former Chief Justices Henry Frye, Burley Mitchell and Jim Exum. NC SUPREME COURT ASSOCIATE JUSTICE (SEAT 2) Eric Levinson Robin Hudson Occupation: Superior Court Judge Age: 47 Website: www.LevinsonforJustice.com Email: [email protected] Occupation: Attorney; Associate Justice, North Carolina Supreme Court Age: 62 Website: www.robinhudson.org Email: [email protected] Personal Statement: I have a unique combination of trial and appellate court experience because I have served as a Judge of the (1) District/Family Court; (2) Court of Appeals; and (3) Superior Court. I served as the Justice Attache to Iraq for the U.S. Department of Justice. My record demonstrates commitments to consistency; judicial restraint; and impartial adherence to the law. Favorite Endorsements: N.C. Fraternal Order of Police Hon. I. Beverly Lake, Jr., Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of North Carolina (ret.) Personal Statement: B.A., Yale. J.D., UNC-CH. Over 38 years legal experience. Elected to Supreme Court 2006, to Court of Appeals 2000. First woman elected to the appellate bench without being appointed first. I’ve decided thousands of cases fairly and impartially, without political or personal agenda. I always apply laws as enacted, if constitutional. Married, two adult children, one granddaughter. Favorite Endorsements: North Carolina Association of Educators North Carolina Police Benevolent Association North Carolina Association of Women Attorneys RIDES TO THE POLLS! If you need a ride to go vote during Early Voting or on Election Day, you’re in luck! Democracy North Caroilna, a nonpartisan group, is providing this service for Mecklenburg County residents. Call them at 888-547-9955. Page 22 NC SUPREME COURT ASSOCIATE JUSTICE (SEAT 3) Mike Robinson Cheri Beasley Occupation: Attorney at Law in Private Practice for 34 years Age: 58 Website: www. votemikerobinson.com Email: [email protected] Occupation: Associate Justice, NC Supreme Court Age: 48 Website: www.JusticeCheriBeasley.com Email: [email protected] Personal Statement: Our State’s highest court should have at least one member who has spent over three decades representing small businesses and businessmen and women. I will enforce the laws of this State consistent with our State and Federal Constitutions. I have been a servant leader both locally and state-wide. I appreciate your vote. Personal Statement: It is an honor to serve on the Supreme Court of North Carolina since 2012. I am the only candidate for this seat with ANY judicial experience. With your support, I will continue to serve justice by applying the law fairly and impartially without undue favor as well as make decisions based upon NC law, the US and NC constitution. Favorite Endorsements: Former North Carolina Supreme Court Chief Justice I. Beverly Lake, Jr. Fraternal Order of the Police Former North Carolina Supreme Court Associate Justice Robert Orr Favorite Endorsements: NC Association of Educators NC Police Benevolent Association NC AFL-CIO NC COURT OF APPEALS (SEAT 1) Because of a late vacancy, 19 candidates are running against each other to fill Seat 1 on the NC Court of Appeals. Marion Warren Occupation: District Court Judge Age: 48 Website: www. JudgeWarren.com Email: [email protected] Personal Statement: When starting my legal career twenty three years ago, I swore to defend the Constitution. I have never lost sight of this obligation and believe the rights and liberties of the individual must be protected. Always, I have worked to see the law applied fairly. Judges should be guardians of the rights and liberties guaranteed by due process of law. Favorite Endorsements: n/a Chuck Winfree Occupation: Self-employed attorney, owner of law firm with five employeesAge: 54 Website: www.electwinfree.com Email: n/a Personal Statement: Our best judges are the ones that remember that they are servants of the parties who come into their courts seeking relief. Judges who forget this undermine the public’s confidence in and respect for our legal institutions. My professional career and service on the State Board of Elections have demonstrated diligence and fairness that would serve our citizens well on the Court of Appeals. Favorite Endorsements: n/a John M. Tyson Occupation: Judge of the North Carolina Court of Appeals 2001-2009; Recall Judge, NC Court of Appeals, 2009-2013 & 2014-present; Emergency Superior Court Judge, 2009-2013 & 2014-present; Adj Professor, Campbell University School of Law, 1987-present.; Chairman of the North Carolina Ethics Commission 2012-2014 Age: 61 Website: www.judgejohntyson.com Email: [email protected] Personal Statement: I was elected to and served on the NC Court of Appeals for eight years, the only judge with this judicial experience. I promise to uphold the Constitution & apply Page 23 NC COURT OF APPEALS (SEAT 1) - cont’d John M. Tyson - cont’d Jody Newsome the laws fairly and impartially. I do not believe in judicial activism, where judges create laws in rulings. I request your vote to return me to the Court of Appeals. www.judgejohntyson.com Occupation: Attorney Age: 42 Website: www.newsomeforcourtofappeals.org Email: [email protected] Favorite Endorsements: 1. North Carolina Fraternal Order of Police 2. Supreme Court Justice Edward Thomas Brady 3. City of Fayetteville Mayor Nat Robertson Elizabeth Davenport Scott Occupation: Litigation Partner with Williams Mullen Age: 54 Website: www.elizabethdavenportscott.com Email: [email protected] Personal Statement: Close to thirty years of experience in the practice of law will guide me in reaching sound and fair decisions that are grounded in the rule of law. My experience representing parties in commercial and business disputes will be particularly helpful in reviewing important legal issues affecting business and industry in the State. Please vote for me on November 4. Favorite Endorsements: Keith Kapp, Immediate Past President, NC State Bar Former U.S. Senator Lauch Faircloth My former law partner Tom Ellis State Auditor Beth Wood Tricia Shields Occupation: Attorney at Hedrick Gardner Kincheloe & Garofalo Age: 54 Website: www.shieldsforjudge.com Email: [email protected] Personal Statement: Proud son of retired U.S.C.G. officer and elementary schoolteacher. Former librarian and police officer. Law Clerk on both N.C. Appellate Courts. Attorney (14 years) for individuals, small businesses, and non-profits. Trial and appellate litigator in State and Federal Courts. Signed NCBA Resolution, agreeing to conduct campaign with professionalism and civility. Won’t accept endorsements or contributions from PACs or interest groups. Favorite Endorsements: n/a Marty Martin Occupation: Attorney Age: 62 Website: www.ElectMartyMartinJudge.com Email: [email protected] Personal Statement: Diverse legal and life experiences have prepared me to serve as a North Carolina Court of Appeals’ judge: Martin Law Firm - est. 1987. See: MartinLegalHelp.com • Wake County District Attorney’s Office - Prosecutor • North Carolina Court of Appeals - Law clerk - John Webb, Associate Justice N.C. Supreme Court who taught me about a judge’s integrity, judgment, independence, toughness, and gentle humanity. Favorite Endorsements: • Nan E. Hannah, Past President Wake County Bar Association and Tenth Judicial District Bar • Walter E. Brock, Jr. Past President Wake County Bar Association and Tenth Judicial District Bar Hunter Murphy Personal Statement: My service as law clerk to Chief Judge Hedrick at the NC Court of Appeals, and 27 years practicing law in our trial and appellate courts, has taught me that justice is served when judges apply the law fairly to everyone, regardless of background, wealth, political affiliations, race, gender or personal views. Occupation: Attorney Age: 33 Website: www.HunterMurphyForJudge.com Email: [email protected] Favorite Endorsements: I have been endorsed by the North Carolina Association of Defense Attorneys (civil defense attorneys organization), as well as by the Past Presidents of that Association. Personal Statement: Judges should not be politicians and politicians should not be judges. My wife, Kellie and I have four-year-old twins, Brayden and Eden and we are active members of Pinnacle Church. I am a Constitu- Page 24 NC COURT OF APPEALS (SEAT 1) - cont’d tional Conservative running to protect the role of the Judiciary and bring my diverse education and experience to the Court of Appeals. Thank you! 17 years, I served as a Superior Court judge. Fairness, honesty, intellectual capacity, a working knowledge of the law, and a strong work ethic are qualities that I value and possess. Favorite Endorsements: Curtis Cochran, Republican Sheriff of Swain County Favorite Endorsements: Congressman G.K. Butterfield Rufus Edmisten, Former Attorney General of NC Don Vaughan, former Mayor of Greensboro Keischa Lovelace Occupation: n.C. Industrial commission deputy commissioner Age: 39 Website: www.lovelaceforcourtofappeals.com Email: [email protected] Personal Statement: N.C. citizens deserve fair, impartial and competent judges who serve with integrity. As a Deputy Commissioner, I judge workers’ compensation cases and State tort claims. In my courtroom, everyone has a fair opportunity to present their cases and they are treated with dignity and respect. My decisions are based upon the law. Please visit my website for more information. Sabra Jean Faires Occupation: Attorney Age: 58 Website: sabrajeanfairesforjudge.com Email: [email protected] Personal Statement: My pledge to you is simple: I promise to treat everyone who comes before the court fairly, consistently, and only in accordance with the application of the law to the facts. Fairness and equal treatment have been the hallmarks of my 30+ year career that includes legislative, administrative, and private practice. I would be honored to receive your vote. Favorite Endorsements: North Carolina Advocates For Justice Favorite Endorsements: Senator Fletcher Hartsell Senator Joel Ford Ann Kirby Daniel Patrick Donahue Occupation: Assistant Public Defender Age: 56 Website: www.KIRBYforCOA.org Candidate did not provide requested information. Personal Statement: Having served as a prosecutor and public defender, I recognize the importance of an objective understanding of both perspectives. I will review all aspects of each case to which I am assigned in order to make a correct, fair and impartial ruling based upon the facts and the law, without regard to status, wealth or position of the parties. Favorite Endorsements: n/a Abe Jones Occupation: Attorney Age: 62 Website: www.voteabejones.com Email: [email protected] Personal Statement: Experience counts. I have served as both a prosecutor and defense attorney in criminal cases. I have also represented both plaintiffs and defendants in civil cases. For J. Brad Donovan Occupation: Deputy Commissioner, NC Industrial Commission Age: 60 Website: www.donovanforcoa.com Education and Training: Juris Doctor, 1989 Email: [email protected] Personal Statement: I have been a member of the bar for 25 years. Every day I have spent in public service. I spent 8 years on Staff Counsel of the Court of Appeals, writing over 600 proposed opinions for the Court. For the last 12 years, I have been hearing cases across the state, being assigned 20003000 cases for the Commission. Favorite Endorsements: n/a Jeffrey M. Cook Candidate did not provide requested information. Page 25 NC COURT OF APPEALS (SEAT 1) - cont’d Lori G. Christian Occupation: Wake Co. District Court Judge Age: 53 Website: ElectJudgeLoriChristian.com Email: n/a Personal Statement: I have been a district court judge since 2007 and have served in every courtroom except the juvenile courts. However, as a lawyer, I represented juveniles in delinquency court and Wake County in abuse and neglect court. My excellent reputation and the fact that I’m a highly rated judge clearly demonstrates that I have the ability to learn new and different areas of the law with ease. Favorite Endorsements: n/a Betsy Bunting Candidate did not provide requested information. John S. Arrowood Occupation: Attorney Age: 57 Website: www.judgearrowood.com Email: [email protected] served on the Court of Appeals in 2007 and 2008 and authored 118 opinions. I have also severed as a Superior Court Judge. I have 23 years of experience in private practice in Charlotte primarily doing civil litigation. Favorite Endorsements: North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE) Equality N.C. Action Fund the PAC for Equality North Carolina N.C. AFL-CIO Valerie Johnson Zachary Occupation: Attorney Age: 52 Website: www.ValerieZachary.com Email: [email protected] Personal Statement: In 1987 I graduated from Harvard Law School cum laude and joined Kennedy Covington Lobdell & Hickman (now K&L Gates) in Charlotte. For the last 25 years I have practiced law with my husband Lee Zachary in rural Yadkin County, near Winston-Salem. I have had a wide breadth of legal experience and bring a different judicial perspective to the Court. Favorite Endorsements: n/a Personal Statement: My experience in the public and private sectors make me uniquely qualified to serve as a Court of Appeals Judge. I NC COURT OF APPEALS (SEAT 2) Bill Southern Lucy Inman Occupation: District Court Judge Age: 34 Website: www.SouthernforJudge.com Email: [email protected] Occupation: Special Superior Court Judge Age: 53 Website: www.judgelucyinman.com Email: [email protected] Personal Statement: My experience as a trial court judge and prosecutor provides me the valuable real world perspective needed on the Court of Appeals. I believe the role of a judge is to decide cases based upon what the law is and not what the law should be and that the efficient, predictable administration of justice is critical to North Carolina’s economy. Personal Statement: I am running for the Court of Appeals to make sure that every judge in our state treats every person fairly and with respect. As a trial judge, I see first-hand how courts affect families, individuals and businesses. I apply the law consistently, impartially, and with no political agenda. In every case. Citizens deserve no less from our courts. Favorite Endorsements: North Carolina Fraternal Order of Police Favorite Endorsements: NC Association of Educators; NC Police Benevolent Association; AFL-CIO Page 26 NC COURT OF APPEALS (SEAT 3) Donna Stroud Occupation: Judge Age: 50 Website: www.DonnaStroud.com Email: [email protected] 2006; Adjunct Professor, Campbell University School of Law, 2008 to present; District Court Judge, Wake County, 20042006; Private practice of law, 1988-2004. Education: Duke University School of Law, LL.M., Judicial Studies, 2014; Campbell University School of Law, 1988, J.D., magna cum laude; Campbell University, 1985, B.A., Government, summa cum laude. Personal Statement: Unopposed for re-election. Professional background: Judge, Court of Appeals, elected Favorite Endorsements: I appreciate all of the individuals and groups which have endorsed me and I cannot name “favorites.” NC COURT OF APPEALS (SEAT 4) Paul Holcombe Mark Davis Occupation: District Court Judge Age: 45 Website: www.judgepaulholcombe.com Email: [email protected] Occupation: Judge, NC Court of Appeals Age: 48 Website: www.judgemarkdavis.com Email: [email protected] Personal Statement: As an elected District Court Judge, I have presided over thousands of cases over the last six years. I am the only candidate in this race who has presided over a criminal court, domestic court, child support court, domestic violence court or traffic court. I have the experience necessary to serve in this important role. I would appreciate your support. Personal Statement: Undergraduate, law degrees: UNC-Chapel Hill. Appeals Court judge since 2012. Decided approximately 600 extremely varied cases. Almost two decades previous legal experience: private practice, Special Deputy Attorney General, General Counsel to the Governor. Proven record of fairness, independence. I treat all people equally. I follow the law with no political agenda. I oppose outside political money in NC judicial elections. Favorite Endorsements: North Carolina Troopers Association Favorite Endorsements: North Carolina Association of Educators North Carolina Police Benevolent Association North Carolina Association of Women Attorneys Voters With Disabilities Sometimes access to your regular polling place can be difficult. If so, you may want to use Early Voting instead, since Early Voting sites are often more accessible. You may also vote from the curb without leaving your car at an Early Voting site in your county or at your precinct’s polling place on Election Day. Voting places have a special spot for curbside voting near the front entrance. Some have a curbside bell; some rely on other voters notifying the poll workers that a voter is at the curb. Only people who have difficulty reaching the polling room because of a physical disability or age may use curbside voting. Before you go to vote, you may also want to check the accessibility of the polling place by calling the local Board of Elections or the State Board of Elections at 866-522-4723. You have the right to request another permanent polling place before the election if yours is inaccessible. Page 27 NC SUPERIOR COURT DISTRICT 26B (Seat 1) Lisa Bell Candidate is unopposed NC SUPERIOR COURT DISTRICT 26B (Seat 2) Eric A. Montgomery Email: [email protected] Website: montgomeryforjudge.com Occupation: 2009 - MONTGOMERY LAW FIRM; 2001- 2008, Assistant General Counsel, BANK OF AMERICA; 1995 - 2001, Lead Attorney, Employment Matters, SCANA SERVICES Background/Experience: • Eric Montgomery has practiced law for nearly 25 years, more than any other candidate in the race for Superior Court Judge District 26B. He is a native of Charlotte and a graduate of West Charlotte High (Class of 83). He is a graduate of Marquette University Law School and North Carolina Central University, Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Political Science, Cum Laude. He has diverse law experience. He has represented corporations, small business owners and his favorite, individuals. He has litigated cases in Federal and State courts and administrative agencies across this state. He brought favorable resolutions for the clients he represented without sacrificing his values or support for strong communities. • Vice President, Mecklenburg County Bar Association, May 2014 • Guest Panelist, University of Pittsburgh, Annual Graduate Studies in Public Administration • Recipient of the Howard B. Eisenberg Award for outstanding work in Community Service - Awarded by Marquette University Law Alumni Association List three important political/civic accomplishments: Montgomery mentors young lawyers, supporting them in their own practices. He also created a community program that has given away hundreds of free wills to individuals at area churches throughout Charlotte. He is a regular speaker for the John Leary Bar Association, an organization which provides free legal clinics in Charlotte. Suggestions to improve performance of the 26th District Court: I envision a judicial system that affords all individuals access to its benefits and services, regardless of financial status, race, sex or any other characteristic that has historically denied people rights. I would advocate expansion of alternative dispute resolution processes and self-help service centers to assist persons to address their legal needs when they cannot afford an attorney. Unfortunately, more people in our country cannot afford the legal services they deserve and we need to find more creative ways to address this pressing concern. Page 28 David Kelly Email: [email protected] Website: www.davidkellyforjudge.com Occupation: Full-time: Assistant District Attorney (Homicide Unit) - Mecklenburg DA’s Office Part-time: Adjunct Law Professor Background/Experience: I am the candidate with the most superior court trial experience. The citizens of NC are electing a trial court judge in this election and I am the most prepared and experienced trial court lawyer. I am endorsed by District Attorney Andrew Murray, former District Attorney Peter Gilchrist, Sheriff Chipp Bailey, and the Charlotte Firefighters’ Association. I am also endorsed by many criminal defense attorneys, prosecutors, and civil attorneys from all political affiliations. I am a graduate of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, UNC Charlotte, and Wake Forest University School of Law. I grew up residing in District 26B in Charlotte. List three important political/civic accomplishments: I designed, and the DA implemented, my blueprint for the establishment of a new unit in our office to target habitual felons. I served on that unit, and supervised that unit. I believe it had, and continues to have, a tremendous impact on our community.I have served on the hiring committee and as intern recruiting coordinator for our office. I have expanded our efforts to recruit qualified and diverse students/lawyers from all backgrounds.But my biggest accomplishments are when a trial ends with a murderer convicted and the victim’s family feels some bit of justice was served. Suggestions to improve performance of the 26th District Court: A judge can only control what they do in their courtroom. I believe a judge should work hard -- all week. I believe a judge should treat all parties in the courtroom with respect. And I believe a judge should follow the law, not personal opinions or beliefs. I commit to do those three things and I believe that if every judge did the same, we would have a much-improved court system. John W. Bowers Email: [email protected] Website: www.bowersforjudge.com Occupation: Appointed Superior Court Judge for District 26B; formerly attorney with Horack, Talley, Pharr & Lowndes, PA Background/Experience: John is a graduate of UNC Chapel Hill for both undergraduate (Phi Beta Kappa) and law school (with Honors; Law Review). He clerked for a NC Supreme Court Justice, where he worked on criminal and civil opinions. John has broad experience in civil litigation spanning over 16 years, focusing on commercial litigation, complex real estate litigation, employment law, and appellate law. He frequently appears in court and has argued in more than 40 counties in North Carolina, including six different counties in July and August this year. John has been selected for The Best Lawyers in America in appellate law for 2011-2014. John has been appointed by the Governor to serve on the bench for the remaining 3 months of the open seat. His unique experience in representing a variety of clients in court on a diversity of matters make him the most qualified candidate for Superior Court Judge. List three important political/civic accomplishments: 1. I obtained a six-figure jury verdict in a complex real estate contract dispute. 2. I served as counsel for the trustee of a law practice of an attorney who was disbarred for real estate fraud. My role included following a trail of funds, working with the FBI, correcting and fixing titles, and disbursing trust account funds. 3. I obtained summary judgment and won the appeal in a very complicated lien priority dispute between lenders that few attorneys thought could be won. The adversary proceeding was before the Bankruptcy Court and then later appealed to the Federal District Court. Suggestions to improve performance of the 26th District Court: Scheduling orders are issued in every case in Superior Court. They list the major deadlines of the case, such as motions deadlines, trial dates, etc. The challenge with scheduling orders in the 26th Judicial District is that the deadlines can begin before all parties to the case have been served and had an opportunity to file a response. This means a party may have to designate expert witnesses before they know the opposing positions. This creates many problems for the court and the parties, as the deadlines set in the scheduling orders can be near impossible to meet and can create burdensome work for all. The scheduling order process needs to be reworked so that deadlines are not set until all parties have been served and the window to answer has expired. This will allow cases to proceed smoothly and logically, benefitting all involved. Carla Archie Email: [email protected] Website: www.carlaarchie.com Occupation: Senior Litigation Counsel for Wells Fargo & Company Background/Experience: As a practicing attorney for nearly 20 years, my experience is extensive and diverse. Unlike my opponents, I have experience handling both criminal and civil litigation on the plaintiff/prosecution side and the defense. I have practiced in the public and private sectors, government and corporate organizations. As a former assistant district attorney, I prosecuted criminal matters and later managed a staff of attorneys as a chief assistant district attorney. I have also handled defensive commercial litigation for large, private corporations, and advised a government agency on sales, marketing, procurement, employment, and security matters. My experience with trying cases before the North Carolina Superior Court gives me first-hand knowledge about the types of cases that may come before me. Further, my experience as a manager has equipped me to balance competing interests and make difficult decisions. List three important political/civic accomplishments: In law school, I led the effort to establish the Oliver Hill Scholarship Fund that, twenty years later, continues to support students who demonstrate a commitment to public service and social advocacy. At age 28, I was humbled to become the first African American female Chief Assistant District Attorney in charge of felony drug prosecutions. The position provided my first opportunity to manage a team, make internal, executive decisions, and to serve as a role model for young lawyers. Now, as president of the Mecklenburg County Bar, I serve and help guide the strategic direction of over 5,000 local attorneys. Suggestions to improve performance of the 26th District Court: My suggestions relate to our overall judicial system because there are always opportunities to improve our system to better serve citizens. I believe that everyone who comes before the court should be treated with respect. Our judicial system must have judges who will administer justice in an ethical and honorable manner with fairness and integrity. All parties deserve to have their positions and cases presented, evaluated and ruled upon in a timely fashion, without bias, and according to the law. Every citizen is entitled to the rights and privileges afforded to them as guaranteed in the United States Constitution and they must be upheld in every branch of our government, including our judiciary. Regardless of where one may fall on the side of the law, or whether a case is heard by a judge or a jury, our system must protect, respect and uphold the rights and privileges of everyone. NC SUPERIOR COURT DISTRICT 26C Justin William Moore Candidate did not provide requested information. Bob Bell Candidate did not provide requested information. Page 29 NC DISTRICT COURT DISTRICT 26 UNCONTESTED RACES Seat 1- Donald Cureton, Jr. Seat 2- Rickye McKoy-Mitchell Seat 3- Paige B. McThenia Seat 4- Regan A. Miller Seat 6- Matt Osman Seat 7- Sean Smith Seat 8 - Becky Thorne Tin NC DISTRICT COURT DISTRICT 26 (Seat 5) Yolanda M. Trotman Email: [email protected] Website: www.yolandatrotmanforjudge.com Occupation: Attorney Background/Experience: I am an alumnus of UNC-Charlotte and I was a North Carolina Teaching Fellow. I received my B.A. in History in 1996. I was a history teacher, Debate & Speech coach and mock trial coach for three years at North Mecklenburg High School. I received my J.D. from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law in 2002. I began my legal career in 2002 as an Assistant Public Defender, where I handled misdemeanor and felony cases in District and Superior Court. I have owned my own law firm and have been in private practice focusing on criminal defense and family law matters since 2004, and I have extensive trial experience. I was recently nationally ranked as one of the “Top 10 under 40” in NC by the National Academy of Family Law Attorneys. List three important political/civic accomplishments: As a high school teacher I was Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ First Year Teacher of the Year among all high school teachers. As a law student at the University of Pittsburgh, I was recognized by my law school for my community service. In May I was nationally ranked as one of the “Top 10 under 40” in NC by the National Academy of Family Law Attorneys. Page 30 Suggestions to improve performance of the 26th District Court: I believe access to justice is critical so there should be a review of affidavits where one is denied the right to counsel. It think our specialty courts should be evaluated for more efficiency for attorneys and litigants. I believe that there should be a more comprehensive evaluation of Judges on a yearly basis and Judges should have some opportunity to observe one another. I think there should be a better opportunity for non profit organizations that are dedicated to addressing some of the underlying issues that can lead to problems in the criminal justice system be better utilized where appropriate. Our Self Serve Center should have longer hours to allow greater access to the resources for civil matters. Theo Nixon Email: [email protected] Website: www.JudgeNixon.com Occupation: District Court Judge in Mecklenburg County, 26th Judicial District since 2008. Previously a Trial Attorney for 28 years Background/Experience: B.A. from North Carolina State University 1973 J.D. from the University of South Carolina School of Law 1977 Assistant Public Defender in Mecklenburg County 1977-1980 Partner in the firm of Goodman, Carr, Nixon,Laughrun and Levine 1980-2000 Founding and Managing Partner in the firm of Nixon, Park, Gronquist & Foster PLLC 2000-2008 Handled cases in District Court in seventeen NC Counties Handled cases in Superior Court in thirteen NC Counties Practiced extensively in Federal District Court for the Western, Middle and Eastern Districts of North Carolina Prosecuted appeals in the North Carolina Court of Appeals, Supreme Court of North Carolina and the United States Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals Sitting District Court Judge in Mecklenburg County 2008-present Lead Criminal Division Judge 2009 through 2013 Created 2 new specialized courts to make the court system more efficient List three important political/civic accomplishments: Having been a Partner in two successful law firms and with over 28 years of trial practice, I have blended my experience from the private sector to make the public sector more efficient. After being appointed by the Governor, my first accomplishments were the creation of a dedicated Probation Violation Court and the resurrection of the Criminal Courts Committee, which I chaired for 4 years. I have presided over the Mecklenburg County Adult Drug Treatment Courts during my entire tenure. In November of 2012, I created and have presided over Citizens’ Warrant Court which is a specialized criminal mediation court. Suggestions to improve performance of the 26th District Court: From the moment I became a District Court Judge, I have used my knowledge and experience to improve the efficiency of the court system. Having a thorough understanding of the com- plexities of the court system, I have been able to identify and implement two new specialized courts to increase efficiency and make the courts more accessible to our citizens. With alternative methods of dealing with the volume of cases and employing specialized approaches to resolving the problems and needs of our citizens, I have already begun the process of addressing those needs. By using more progressive evidence based methods that do not jeopardize the safety and welfare of our community, I plan on continuing to change the way that we have been dealing with crime over the years. My last six years prove that these changes have been and can continue to be successful. NC DISTRICT COURT DISTRICT 26 (Seat 9) Casey Viser Email: [email protected] Website: www.caseyviser.com Occupation: current: Judge, Mecklenburg County District Court former: Partner, James, McElroy & Diehl, PA Background/Experience: I have over 14 years experience in the judicial system, as both a litigator and a Judge. I have a diverse legal background as a civil litigator and criminal trial attorney. Having tried civil and criminal cases, as well as domestic/juvenile cases prior to becoming a Judge, I am uniquely qualified to preside over any proceeding that may come before me in District Court. My knowledge of not only the law and procedure, but also people, enables me to serve effectively as a District Court Judge. I have argued cases before the North Carolina Supreme Court, the North Carolina Court of Appeals, and the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals. I received my law degree from Campbell University, where I served as President of the Student Bar Association. I am a native Charlottean, husband, and devoted father of three, and I am committed to serving the people of Mecklenburg County. List three important political/civic accomplishments: My most important accomplishments are my three children and my marriage. Beyond these most important aspects of my life, I believe my most important professional accomplishment is the overwhelming vote of confidence I received from fellow members of the Mecklenburg Bar, to be named as a District Court Judge, and my appointment by the Governor. My other professional accolades include: Charlotte Business Journal’s “40 Under 40;” Business North Carolina Magazine’s “Legal Elite” for Criminal Defense; Superlawyers Magazine, “Rising Star” for Business Litigation and Criminal Defense; and Best Lawyers in America, “2013 Lawyer of the Year” for DWI Defense. Suggestions to improve performance of the 26th District Court: The 26th Judicial District is the largest and most active court in the state. We do more with fewer resources than any other county, and we are able to handle the largest caseload in the state because of the extraordinary efforts by many of our Judges, Clerks, Deputies, and District Attorneys. Our greatest asset is the quality of the people within the system. However, the continued cuts in funding of our judicial system endanger the efficient administration of justice. Without the proper resources to fund the multitude of programs we have in Mecklenburg County that are designed to allow for the handling of such a high volume of cases, the ultimate result will be even higher costs to the public. Alicia D. Brooks Email: [email protected] Website: www.aliciabrooksforjudge.com Occupation: Attorney Brooks is currently self-employed as an attorney with The Brooks Law Firm practicing criminal and traffic law. Background/Experience: Attorney Brooks graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill with two bachelors degrees and a law degree. She began her career as an assistant Public Defender where she represented hundreds of indigent people from all across Mecklenburg County. Later Attorney Brooks became an assistant District Attorney prosecuting major crimes such as homicides. She has been in private practice for 14 years where she continues to represent individuals from all walks of life. She is a member of Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church and a resident of Matthews where she is active in her church and her community. She has previously served on the board of directors for the Mecklenburg county Bar and for a child development center in Matthews. Attorney Brooks is a person of integrity and has the temperament to be an excellent judge. Her experience and commitment to this community make her uniquely qualified to be a District Court Judge. List three important accomplishments: I am the product of a single parent home and the odds were against me obtaining a higher education. I not only graduated tenth in my high school class, but I also graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill undergraduate on a partial scholarship with two degrees, political science and criminal justice. I was the first generation to obtain a doctoral degree by obtaining my Juris Doctorate from UNC Chapel Hill as well. My most important accomplishments are being married for 25 years and raising three amazing children, two of them who are currently attending college. Suggestions to improve performance of the 26th District Court: As an attorney who has practiced in many of the courtrooms in Mecklenburg County, I have seen many improvements in our system over the years. The area that needs the most attention is the funding of our judicial system.There are treatment courts which are a tremendous help in lowering the rate of recidivism and we need to adequately fund these courts and increase them around the state. Providing the proper funding for our court system would help to improve its effectiveness and efficiency. Page 31 Democracy North Carolina 1821 Green Street Durham, NC 27705 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 1011 Durham, NC Independent, Non-partisan Voter Guide For Voters In Mecklenburg County EARLY VOTING TIMES AND LOCATIONS 1. Central Piedmont Community College—Facilities Services 1325 E 7th St, Charlotte, NC 28204 Oct. 23 - 24 & 27 - 31 Oct. 25 & Nov. 1 Oct. 26 Weekdays Saturday Sunday 8:00 am - 7:00 pm 10:00 am - 1:00 pm 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Additional locations: 2. Ballantyne Commons Shpg. Ctr. 14815 Ballantyne Village Way 9. Main Library 310 N Tryon St. 16. North Regional Library 16500 Holly Crest Ln., Huntersville 3. Beatties Ford Regional Library 2412 Beatties Ford Rd. 10. Marion Diehl Rec Ctr 2219 Tyvola Rd. 17. South Regional Library 5801 Rea Rd. 4. Bette Rae Thomas Rec Ctr 2921 Tuckasegee Rd. 11. Matthews Library 230 Matthews Station St., Matthews 18. Steele Creek Library 13620 Steele Creek Rd. 5. Cornelius Town Hall 21445 Catawba Ave., Cornelius 12. Midwood Cultural Ctr 1817 Central Ave. 19. Sugar Creek Library 4045 N Tryon St, Ste. A 6. Elon Park Rec Ctr 11401 Ardrey Kell Rd. 20. University Regional Library 13. Mint Hill Library 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd., Mint Hill 301 E WT Harris Blvd. 7. Hickory Grove Library 5935 Hickory Grove Rd. 14. Morrison Regional Library 7015 Morrison Blvd. 8. Independence Regional Library 6000 Conference Dr. 15. Moutain Island Library 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way 21. West Boulevard Library 2157 West Blvd. Oct. 23 - 24 & 27 -31 Weekdays 10:00 am - 7:00 pm Oct. 25 & Nov. 1 Oct. 26 Saturday Sunday 10:00 am - 1:00 pm 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm