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In the West Bloomfield Beacon’s coverage area, voters will choose candidates for local school boards and city councils, as well as governor and more Nov. 8.
Below are profiles submitted by the candidates. Candidates were asked, in 75 words or fewer, to state their top goals if elected. If a candidate went over the word limit, (…) replaces the rest of the answer. The answers are printed verbatim. Profiles do not appear for uncontested races.
Governor
Six candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for the position is $159,300 plus benefits.
Democrat
Gretchen Whitmer
Age: 51
Occupation: I have served as Michigan’s 49th governor since 2019.
Municipality of residence: Lansing, Michigan
For how long: I have lived in Ingham County since 1989, after moving there from Kent County.
Online campaign information: www.gretchenwhitmer.com
Education: Michigan State University (BA, 1993), Detroit College of Law at Michigan State University (JD, 1998)
Previously and currently held elected offices: I have served as Michigan’s 49th Governor since 2019. I previously served as Ingham County Prosecutor in 2016, in the State Senate from 2006-2015, and in the State House of Representatives from 2001-2006.
Top goals: I am focused on the fundamentals: cutting costs for families, improving education, creating good-paying jobs, building resilient infrastructure, and supporting small businesses.
I will continue fighting to cut taxes for seniors and working families, grow our economy, and protect the fundamental rights of Michigan women.
Despite all the challenges of the past few years, we have brought people together to get things done, and I will build on that momentum to continue moving Michigan forward.
Republican
Tudor M. Dixon
Age: 45
Occupation: Former steel sales executive and small business owner, mother of 4
Municipality of residence: Norton Shores, Muskegon County
For how long: 20+ years
Online campaign information: TudorDixon.com
Education: Psychology degree from University of Kentucky
Previously and currently held elected offices: None.
Top goals: I am running for governor to improve education after Gretchen Whitmer’s lockdowns set our students back. I am running to restore law and order and declare that we will not accept spiking crime and that we support our police. I am running to improve our economy and ease the burden of regulations. I have vowed to cut 40% of regulations in my first four years so businesses can grow and Michiganders can attain good-paying jobs.
Libertarian
Mary Buzuma
Age: 65
Occupation: Retired U.S. Navy after 26 years in Naval Intelligence
Municipality of residence: Grand Haven
For how long: 12 years
Online campaign information: electmarybuzuma.com
Education: BA, Political Science
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: As the first Libertarian governor of Michigan I will work to roll back the state and restore the inalienable right to choose for all Michiganders. The right to choose how to educate their children, how to spend their hard earned money, how to best take care of their medical needs and most important how to live their lives.
U.S. Taxpayers
Donna Brandenburg
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Green
Kevin Hogan
Age: 61
Occupation: Retired Published Research Biochemist (with an Avocation of Substitute Teacher)
Municipality of residence: Dearborn Heights
For how long: No answer given
Online campaign information: Ballotpedia.org
Education: University of Michigan: Biochemistry, Western Governors University: Masters in Education (teach Chemistry)
Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer given
Top goals: Provide for Women’s Equality; LGBTQI(+) Equality, End The Gretchen Whitmer COVID19 (and its Variants) Pandemic, Fix Michigan’s broken Education System (only 10 states are worse in education than Michigan), Improve Everyone’s Standard of Living by Improving the Economy through Job Creation (including fixing the damn roads, bridges, and damns) and Ending the The Gretchen Whitmer Dictatorship (E-Cigarrettes off the market, COVID19 Lock Downs, Mask Mandates,…) and providing for Animal Rights.
Natural Law
Daryl M. Simpson
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Secretary of State
Five candidates are running for one four-year term. The secretary of state receives a salary of $112,410.
Democrat
Jocelyn Benson
Age: 44 (at this writing)
Occupation: Michigan Secretary of State, election lawyer
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: 18 years
Online campaign information: www.votebenson.com
Education: A graduate of Wellesley College, Harvard Law School, Oxford University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Michigan Secretary of State; Wellesley, Massachusetts Town Council
Top goals: If reelected, my goal will be to continue the work we’ve done since 2018, namely continuing to improve services at the Secretary of State’s Office and protect our democracy so every voice is heard and every vote is counted for Republicans, Democrats and Independents, alike. We have modernized our office so branch office visits are 20 minutes or less, and in November 2020 I presided over the safest, most secure general election in Michigan history.
Republican
Kristina Elaine Karamo
Age: 37
Occupation: Professor at Wayne County Community College
Municipality of residence: Oak Park
For how long: 4 years
Online campaign information: www.KristinaKaramo.com
Education: BA from Oakland University in Communications, Master Degree in Christian Apologetics, Biola University in CA.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate
Top goals: Ensure a politically neutral Department of State. Elections shall be operated per the rule-of-law. Car dealership and repair facility inspections along with fees and fines shall not be used to fund a bloated budget when less than 8% of what is currently generated by the SoS is needed to run the SoS. Ensure SOS branch office and vehicle related operations are customer focused, by ensuring local concerns are integral when improving administrative operations.
Libertarian
Gregory Scott Stempfle
Age: 45
Occupation: Medical Technologist, Henry Ford Hospital
Municipality of residence: Ferndale
For how long: Since 2010
Online campaign information: www.stempfle4sos.org
Education: BS Clinical Laboratory Sciences – Wayne State, 2008; MS Molecular Medicine and Genetics – Wayne State, 2012
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: I would like to streamline and automate services, when possible, without leaving those without access to technology behind. I will advocate for changes to the vehicle registration process so that car and truck owners can permanently register their vehicle rather than every year or two years. I will also advocate for changes to our election system to increase the participation of independent and third-party candidates such as ranked choice voting for state elections.
U.S. Taxpayers
Christine C. Schwartz
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Green
Larry James Hutchinson Jr.
Age: 49
Occupation: Artist and author
Municipality of residence: Lansing
For how long: 10 years.
Online campaign information: Facebook
Education: Associates of Arts in psychology, Mott Community College, and studied Anthropology and Political Science at University of Michigan – Flint
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My top goals all fly under the umbrella of campaign finance reform. We need publicly funded elections and for election day to become a state holiday. I’d love to see 100 percent voter participation, but that is not likely. Publicly funded elections can. I sign the waiver and requested that any candidate that has taken money to please return it. Election day becoming a state holiday is a no brainer. Thx and Vote Green.
Attorney General
Four candidates are running for one four-year term. The attorney general receives a salary of $112,410.
Democrat
Dana Nessel
Age: 53
Occupation: Michigan Attorney General
Municipality of residence: Plymouth
For how long: I was elected in 2018.
Online campaign information: www.dananessel.com
Education: Graduated from the University of Michigan and Wayne State University law school.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Attorney General is my first elected office.
Top goals: I would like to continue the work of my first term, fighting for the rights of all Michiganders. I will continue prosecuting sexual assault and domestic violence. I will defend reproductive freedom and uphold the will of the voters. I will pursue consumer protection and go after price-gouging, including when special interests like Big Pharma charge exorbitant prices for life-saving medications. As the People’s Lawyer, I will defend the most vulnerable among us.
Republican
Matthew DePerno
Age: 52
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Kalamazoo
For how long: 24 years
Online campaign information: www.depernoformi.com
Education: Undergrad from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Juris Doctorate from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law in 1994, and master’s degree in Taxation Law (LL.M.) from New York University School of Law in 1995.
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My top goal is to restore Michigan to the great state it once was. I will fight to lower the skyrocketing crime, clean up government corruption and fight for parents rights in schools. Michigan was once a leader in business and education and a place we were proud to call home. I will fight to make this a reality again. I kindly ask for your support.
Libertarian
Joseph W. McHugh Jr.
Age: 44
Occupation: Financial Advisor & Fitness Coach
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: Mid-2021
Online campaign information: LibertyStrikesBack.com
Education: BA Michigan State University, International Relations & Political Economy; MBA Babson College Entrepreneurship & Sustainability
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: We will restore our liberty and justice by partnering with attorneys and the public to accomplish the following: transparent voting systems run on open source election software, voiding vague laws, terms of service and privacy policy agreements to comply with the 1926 Void for Vagueness doctrine and due process, and enforce a No Harm, No Crime standard to restore free action, release non-violent prisoners, expunge records immediately, and provide backpay for unjustly lost time.
U.S. Taxpayers
Gerald T. Van Sickle
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
U.S. House of Representatives District 11
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. U.S. representatives receive a salary of $174,000.
Democrat
Haley Stevens
Age: 39
Occupation: Congresswoman from Michigan’s 11th District
Municipality of residence: Birmingham
For how long: Not given.
Online campaign information: https://haleystevensforcongress.com
Education: B.A. in Social Policy and Philosophy and M.A. in Political Science and Philosophy from American University
Previously and currently held elected offices: I am the current two term Congresswoman from Michigan’s 11th District.
Top goals: My top goals and why I am running for re-election in Michigan’s 11th District are protecting a woman’s right to choose, increasing opportunities for women, girls, and minorities in STEM education, and ending the gun violence epidemic that plagues our society.
Republican
Mark Ambrose
Age: 52
Occupation: Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Regional Investment Manager
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 13 years – also raised in Bloomfield Twp. (additional 18 years)
Online campaign information: www.voteambrose.com
Education: Brother Rice High School, Bloomfield Twp.: 1984-1988; U.S. Military Academy, West Point, B.Sc. in Systems Engineering: 1988-1992; Columbia University, Master of International Affairs, Russian Studies: 1995-1998; Columbia Business School, MBA (Master of Business Administration), 1996-1998
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: 1. Reduce inflation and improve our economy through responsible and informed economic policies. 2. Security: Increase border security, reduce crime, and honor our police. 3. Strengthen our military, so that the United States will never be challenged. 4. Create jobs for Michigan and America through fair trade. Encourage business to invest, build and manufacture in the United States. 5. Cure Autism – dedicate resources to ending this disease.
State Senate District 13
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for a state senator is $71,685 plus benefits.
Democrat
Rosemary Bayer
Age: 63
Occupation: State Senator, long career in information technology, as a computer engineer, analyst, architect, and executive business leader, then owner of a small information technology company serving schools and non-profits.
Municipality of residence: Keego Harbor
For how long: 8 months
Online campaign information: http://rosemarybayer.com
Education: BS Computer Science Central MI University, MBA Lawrence Technological University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Currently State Senator MI District 12.
Top goals: My goals for my second term are to
– provide adequate and equitable funding to public schools for ALL students, including physical and mental health services, resources for special needs, and teacher supports
– pass common sense gun safety legislation as well as legislation protecting reproductive freedom and voting rights.
– protect our environmental assets — water, air and land — with legislation to both protect and to make polluters pay for their messes, and invest in rebuilding inadequate infrastructure.
Republican
Jason Rhines
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
State House of Representatives District 20
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. State representatives earn a salary of $71,685 plus expenses.
Democrat
Noah Arbit
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Republican
Albert Mansour
Age: 43
Occupation: Realtor
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield Twp. MI
For how long: lifelong
Online campaign information: www.AlbertMansour.com
Education: Master’s Degree from Walsh College in Information Systems, with a project management concentration. Bachelor’s Degree from Wayne State University in Political Science.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate.
Top goals: Defending against governmental overreach. And defending parental rights in education and health care choices.
State House of Representatives District 21
Three candidates are running for one two-year term. State representatives earn a salary of $71,685 plus expenses.
Democrat
Kelly Breen
Age: 42
Occupation: Michigan State Representative, Democrat (current minority party): Insurance and Judiciary Committees
Municipality of residence: Novi, Michigan
For how long: 18 years
Online campaign information: https://kellybreen.com/
Education: 1) Bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University, James Madison School, and 2) J.D. from Wayne State University Law School.
Previously and currently held elected offices:
· Novi City Council Member, 2017-2020
· (Current role) State Representative for Michigan House of Representatives, District #38
Top goals: “Healthy Michigan” includes our physical, mental & economic needs:
· Quality accessible affordable physical, mental, recovery, prescription, and reproductive healthcare.
· Protection from toxins in air and water.
· Freedom from gun violence through common-sense regulations and anti-violence programs.
· Quality equitable public education from pre-K through community college, trade schools, and apprentice programs.
· Good-paying “blue and green” jobs in clean energy, conservation, transportation, building, and sustainable agriculture.
· Supports giving small businesses competitive edges.
· Tax, judicial, and governance reforms.
Republican
David Staudt
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Libertarian
James K. Young
Age: 67
Occupation: Retired
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills, MI
For how long: For 9 years
Online campaign information: None
Education: B.S. Business Management, Ferris State University
A.S Chemical Technology, Lawrence Technological University
B.S. Chemical Engineering, Wayne State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: Regarding my top three goals, first I would like to reduce taxes. These could include the Income Tax and the Retirement Tax. The more taxation is eliminated, the more money will be in the pockets of the citizens. Second, I would like to reform auto insurance. We did have some auto insurance reform, but it still needs more work. Third, I would like to find ways to make it easier to start businesses in Michigan.
State House of Representatives District 19
Two candidates are running for one two-year term.State representatives earn a salary of $71,685 plus expenses.
Democrat
Samantha Steckloff
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Republican
Anthony Paesano
Age: 50
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 23 years
Online campaign information: www.paesanoformichigan.com
Education: Birmingham Brother Rice, Purdue University, University of Detroit Mercy School of Law
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: We need more responsible and accountable leadership in public office. I will be a guardian of tax dollars and will vote against reckless spending. On education, we must shift our focus on reading, writing and arithmetic, and increased services for special needs students, and eliminate extreme social agendas of unions and school boards. On public safety, we need to curb the increase in crime by increasing funding and support for police and fire.
State House of Representatives District 18
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. State representatives earn a salary of $71,685 plus expenses.
Democrat
Jason Hoskins
Age: 38
Occupation: Southfield City Councilman/Legislative Director – Office of State Sen. Jeremy Moss
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: 8 years
Online campaign information: votejasonhoskins.com
Education: Bachelors in Political Science – Eastern Michigan University; Master’s in Public Administration – Eastern Michigan University, Juris Doctor – University of Detroit Mercy School of Law
Previously and currently held elected offices: Southfield City Council 2019-Present
Top goals: Address rising cost and inflation and that many Michiganders are struggling with right now. I want to increase state revenue sharing and change the state infrastructure funding formula which will result in more critical funding for our road, water and energy infrastructure. Protect and enhance our right to vote, right to reproductive freedom, and remove biases from our criminal justice system.
Republican
Wendy Webster-Jackson
Age: 50
Occupation: Podiatrist
Municipality of residence: Southfield resident
For how long: 12 years
Online campaign information: Drwendyforstaterep.com
Education: Doctorate in Podiatric Medicine, New York College of Podiatric Medicine, BS Biology Wayne State University, Cass Technical High School
Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer given.
Top goals: Families build communities and I want to attract families to the 18th district with the following agenda. 1. My goal is to promote and foster new and established businesses. 2. To promote education for students, stop gender identity taught in schools, to have teachers concentrate on the basics. Reading, writing, math, financial literacy, and other skills to be competitive nationally and globally. 3. To increase the public safety budget to equip officers with the latest technology, and increase pay and benefit packages. 4. Stop unnecessary milages.
Keego Harbor City Council
Two candidates are running for one three-year term.
Manhal Shammami
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Theresa Shimansky
Age: 53
Occupation: Accountant
Municipality of residence: Keego Harbor
For how long: 11 years
Online campaign information: theresa4citycouncil.com
Education: B.S. in Business Management, M.A. in Organizational Management
Previously and currently held elected offices: Previously – Keego Harbor City Council (2018-2021)
Top goals: 1) Maintaining a balanced budget while providing the services residents need including preserving the Keego Harbor police department.
2) Creating a more walkable vibrant downtown to attract new businesses and create a destination for people.
3) Looking at ways to alleviate the blight throughout the city.
Sylvan Lake City Council
Four candidates are running for one four-year term. Sylvan Lake City Council members are compensated $5 per meeting.
David Bowman
Age: 40
Occupation: Director, Community Health and Wellbeing, TrinityHealth Oakland
Municipality of residence: Sylvan Lake
For how long: 2 years
Online campaign information: www.facebook.com/DavidBowmanforSylvanLakeCouncil/
Education:
· Detroit Country Day High School 00’
· Bachelor’s Degree, International Affairs – Florida State University 05’
· Master’s Degree, Public Administration, Non Profit Management- Wayne State University 08’
Previously and currently held elected offices: Oakland County Commissioner
Top goals: My goals include public safety, economic development, and water quality.
A community advisory council working collaboratively with our police, can improve safety and communication.
A Sylvan Lake Chamber of Commerce can brand, attract, and retain businesses. Economic development opportunities should be vibrant and attractive, just like our neighborhoods.
Water is a precious resource. I’d like to provide neighbors access to water education, safety, and conservation resources by partnering with our Oakland County Water Commission.
Ben Clarke
Age: 38
Occupation: Owner of People Skate & Snowboard
Municipality of residence: Sylvan Lake
For how long: 15 years
Online campaign information: www.facebook.com/benclarkeforcouncil
Education: Graduated from Brother Rice High School, Bachelors in Sociology from Oakland University
Previously and currently held elected offices: I was elected to Sylvan Lake City Council in 2018 and I was appointed the Mayor in 2020.
Top goals: Ensure a smooth transition hiring our next City Manager. John Martin has worked for the city for 38 years. We continue to source and outsource those responsibilities so that the city’s future is in a good position to prosper.
Create an action strategy to implement the new ideas contained in our master plan revision. Invest in our parks infrastructure. Their use has increased and parks rank among the most important assets to residents.
Gary Voiles
Age: 54
Occupation: Law Enforcement (retired)
Municipality of residence: Sylvan Lake
For how long: 6 years
Online campaign information: www.garyvoiles.com
Education: Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Madonna University, Graduate of Police Staff & Command School at Easter Michigan University
Previously and currently held elected offices: First time experience
Top goals: My primary focus is on the safety and welfare of our residents. I strongly believe in crime prevention methods through education and technology that will help keep our residents from being a soft target to crime.
I also believe in giving full support to our resident volunteers and our parks and recreation department. They all do great work to offer endless activities for the great people of Sylvan Lake.
Thank you for your support!
Michael Zubrzycki
Age: 56
Occupation: Health Care Benefits and Wellness Program Manager
Municipality of residence: Sylvan Lake
For how long: 27 years
Online campaign information: No answer given.
Education: MBA in Finance and Information Systems from Wayne State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Incumbent for Sylvan Lake City Council
Top goals: My top priorities are maintaining the highest level of public safety,improving the City’s infrastructure (roads, water and sewer) and enhancing the quality of life by protecting the shoreline and supporting community and recreation events. The city of Sylvan Lake has a relatively small discretionary budget, so I will also utilize my Finance background to ensure wise government spending on projects the residents want and need.
West Bloomfield School District Board of Education
Nine candidates are running for one six-year term.
Dianne Holloway Browne
Age: 67
Occupation: Retired Educator
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 12 Years
Online campaign information: www.diannebrowne.com
Education: BA – English (University of Texas, Arlington), MAT (Marygrove College), MA English (Marygrove College)
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct #11 Delegate West Bloomfield
Top goals: One of my goals would be to continue collaborating and keeping the lines of communication open between students, staff, parents, and the community, so all feel safe in expressing themselves and know they will be heard. A second goal would be to address the impact the pandemic had on student learning, particularly in math and reading where research states there was a significant decrease in learning.
Ashleigh Davis
Age: 36
Occupation: Former Teacher and School/Community Volunteer
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 36 years
Online campaign information: https://www.facebook.com/Elect-Ashleigh-Davis-for-WB-Board-of-
Education-101755012609220
Education: Michigan State University Bachelors of Science in Biology & Secondary education. Michigan State University Masters of Teaching & Curriculum.
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals:1) increase student achievement, 2) recruit/retain highly effective teachers 3) smaller class sizes, 4) increase resident enrollment and 5) maintain a fiscally responsible fund balance to ensure district stability. I am the best candidate because of my knowledge and experience in education, life-long involvement in our schools/community, and vested interest to guarantee WB is a great place to learn & work. I have four children in WBSD, I am approachable, level-headed and data-driven.
Brian Dunne
Age: 41
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 9.5 years
Online campaign information: DUNNEforWBSD.com
Education: University of Toledo College of Law (Toledo, OH), Juris Doctor, Cum Laude (2006); University of Detroit Mercy (Detroit, MI), Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Summa Cum Laude (2003)
Previously and currently held elected offices: none
Top goals: I want to improve our school district’s academics. Our district-wide M-Step math proficiency for the 2021-2022 school year was 38.8%. Our reading proficiency was 45.9%. Both of these are below the county-wide scores. In the short term, we need to reduce classroom sizes to allow our faculty to engage more with students on an individual basis. In the long term, we need to review and adopt a curriculum that fits our students best.
Wm. Art Holdsworth
Age: 60
Occupation: Retired
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 13 years
Online campaign information: www.holdsworthforBOE.com
Education: B.S. in Systems Engineering from Oakland University; M.B.A. from MSU; Certified Public Finance Officer.
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: To ensure our teachers know they’re valued and heard; our students of all backgrounds, religions, cultures, and identities feel welcomed; our schools are safe; our mental health resources are robust; the COVID learning lag is addressed; every student is given the academic attention they deserve; our teaching staff reflects the diversity we value; we continue schools of choice; literary and academic freedom for students and teachers is respected; we stand against the ‘culture wars’ issues.
Brandon A. Kalasho
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Earnestina Moore
Age: 48
Occupation: Labor & Employment Attorney
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 7 years
Online campaign information: www.moore4wbschoolboard.com
Education: Howard University (Magna cum laude)-Bachelor of Business Administration, Washington University School of Law (St. Louis)
Previously and currently held elected offices: Not Applicable
Top goals: School Safety- Ensure students have a safe learning environment to thrive. I would partner with local law enforcement to identify any areas of improvement within the district.
Social Emotional Learning (SEL)-Allow for better learning, which would contribute to a positive school climate and reduction in negative social behaviors.
Curriculum- Actively address learning loss due to Covid-19.
District Enrollment-Increase efforts to attract and retain students who reside within the district.
Chris Tucker
Age: 42
Occupation: IT and Special Projects
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield Township
For how long: 11 years
Online campaign information: VoteChrisTucker.com
Education: Wayne State University and Baker College with a Degree in Information Technology and Security. Graduated Magna Cum Laude with a 3.84 GPA.
Previously and currently held elected offices: None.
Top goals: We are educating students for future success. Students need to be well-prepared for a future that excites them. In support of students, we should strive to create a positive and safe learning environment to promote continuous student growth, mentally, physically, and academically.
Staff needs more respect, more pay, and more power in decision-making. We need drastically improve staff retention.
We work for the community, teachers, parents, and most of all the students.
Jeremiah Williams
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Sherri Anne Wynter
Age: 40
Occupation: Talent Acquisition Specialist for Remora
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield, Michigan
For how long: 15 years
Online campaign information: votesherrianne.com
Education: Master’s of Science in Health Psychology and Bachelor’s of Arts in Child Psychology
Previously and currently held elected offices: NONE
Top goals: To bring diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies to the West Bloomfield School Board policies, hiring practices for teachers and administrators, administrative and staff training, and student educational programs. Attracting top talent for teachers and administration while addressing the pay gap for the current teachers and staff.
Walled Lake Consolidated School District Board of Education
Seven candidates are running for three six-year terms.
Susie Muzbeck Crafton
Age: 46
Occupation: Professional fundraiser and grant writer
Municipality of residence: Novi
For how long: 4 years and 4 months, but also grew up in Novi
Online campaign information: www.susiecrafton.com
Education: Master of Arts, Student Affairs Administration — Higher, Adult and Lifelong Education Department from Michigan State University; Bachelor of Arts, English, Emphasis in Education and Life Sciences from Michigan State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: The school board ensures that ALL students are prepared to thrive in their chosen future. The students of today will likely live in a world we cannot yet imagine. Every student must graduate prepared for that reality. This will likely mean investing in new courses that align to workforce needs, hands-on learning experiences, and ensuring that the district is serving the diverse learning needs of the community including special education and English learners.
Julie Fernandez
Age: 54
Occupation: Human Resources Consulting
Municipality of residence: White Lake
For how long: 17 years
Online campaign information: https://bit.ly/julie4wlschools
Education: Walled Lake Central graduate (class of 1986); Michigan State University (BA); Wayne State University (MBA)
Previously and currently held elected offices: None — I am not a politician.
Top goals: I am a business professional who has served for 12+ years on Boards, including businesses (North Oakland Credit Union), charities (Catholic Social Services, Oakland County), and public health (Blue Care Network). I will apply my experience to address the $7M budget deficit. In addition to creating a plan for our financial health, my top priorities are to make up for learning loss and to bring transparency and responsiveness to parents, teachers, and the community.
Shayna Levin
Age: 40
Occupation: Insurance Agent
Municipality of residence: Commerce Township
For how long: 15 years
Online campaign information: www.ShaynaforWLCSD.com
Education: Bachelor of Arts in General Management from Michigan State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: I want to improve trust, transparency, & accountability in Walled Lake Schools. As a mother of two, I have been very involved in our school district for years. I have seen Walled Lake at its best and I have seen when things could be better. I want to make positive improvements in our district so parents, teachers, students, & staff have the support and resources they need to achieve academic success and overall satisfaction with our schools.
Becky Spagnuolo
Age: 33
Occupation: Parent
Municipality of residence: Wixom, MI
For how long: Since 2017
Online campaign information: https://becky4wlcsd.com/
Education: AA in Criminal Justice, Illinois Community College, 2012
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: 1. Preparing ALL students for the future, regardless of their chosen continuing education, training, or career paths, without discrimination due to their race, sexual/gender identity, or disability.
2. Providing educators with the resources and support needed to create and teach a high-quality curriculum focused on what best helps students learn and succeed.
3. Protecting the health and safety of students and staff with mental health support and common-sense disease and gun safety policies.
Christy Tice
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Christopher Titus
Age: 61
Occupation: Sales Department Installed Building Products IBP
Energy Compliance New Construction Homes
Municipality of residence: Commerce Township
For how long: 30 Years
Online campaign information: None
Education: BSBA from Central Michigan University
Major in Management Minor in Economics
Previously and currently held elected offices: Appointed and reelected to the Walled Lake Schools Board of Education January 2013
Top goals: To continue to advocate at both the State and Federal level for more consistent resources to support learning for all students and families in the community. To face the many new needs and challenges that our learners require to be successful in the future. Consistent funding is essential to allow the Superintendent to develop, staff, and monitor state of the art programs to keep Walled Lake Schools a leader in public education.
Nancy van Leuwen
Age: No answer given.
Occupation: Retired Teacher (Walled Lake)
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 45 years
Online campaign information: None
Education: Bachelor of Science in Education from Central Michigan University
Previously and currently held elected offices: current WLCSD Board of Education member
Top goals: I am a strong supporter of public education. I am a strong supporter of providing a quality education for all of our students regardless of race, ethnicity, ability, special need, gender, or gender identity. I will continue to lobby our Legislature in Lansing and at the federal level for fair and equitable funding for all of our districts.
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 10
Two candidates are running for one two-year term.Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.
Democrat
Kristen Nelson
Age: 39
Occupation: Board Certified Behavior Analyst
Municipality of residence: Waterford Township
For how long: 13 years
Online campaign information: votekristennelson.com
Education: Bachelor of Science in Education with a Minor in Special Education and a Master of Education with a major in Special Education from Wayne State University, and I completed board certification (Behavior Analyst) from Florida Institute of Technology.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Oakland County Commissioner since 2018.
Top goals: Public Health and Safety. I will continue to support Oakland County’s collaborative efforts in providing equitable access to quality and affordable mental health and behavioral health services and treatment. Improving the Quality of Life for all Oakland County Seniors. I will continue to work on meeting the needs of our rapidly growing 65+ population and those who care for them. Environmental Justice. Preserving our natural resources, community green spaces, parks, and enhancing outdoor recreation opportunities.
Republican
Vincent F. Sitto
Age: 40
Occupation: Landscape Broker
Municipality of residence: Keego Harbor
For how long: 12 years
Online campaign information: https://electvincentsitto.com/
Education: College Diploma
Previously and currently held elected offices: NONE
Top goals: If elected we would fight to stop the reckless spending spree the commission has been on, have mismanaged over $100 million just in transportation services alone, they have spent over $25 million paying down the debt of a city in another county, they have given themselves a 5% pay increase, they have lessened the Sheriff’s department funding and completely disregarded the will of parents who only wanted what was best for their children’s future.
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 11
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.
Democrat
Marcia Gershenson
Age: No answer given.
Occupation: County Commissioner
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield
For how long: 20 year resident
Online campaign information: Marcia Gershenson for County Commissioner Facebook page
Education: Graduate University of Michigan BA education
Previously and currently held elected offices: County Commissioner since 2005
Top goals: My first priority is to continue the County’s efforts to support our businesses economic recovery. In addition, I am focused on helping to provide seniors the services they need to live independently. Also, I am currently working to expand our Health Department to address the needs of families with the establishment of community Health Centers.
Republican
S. Dave Sullivan
Age: 55
Occupation: Realtor
Municipality of residence: Orchard Lake
For how long: 5 years
Online campaign information: https://www.facebook.com/RealtorDaveSullivan
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Finance from the University of Western Michigan
Previously and currently held elected offices: City Councilman in the City of Orchard Lake.
Top goals: Most people believe our nation is on the wrong track. We have lost our ability to see the good in what our country represents. The United States of America has lifted the entire globe out of poverty and spread freedom worldwide. This happened because we once had a small government that allowed individuals to make decisions for themselves. Elect S, Dave Sullivan, and I will end offensive county government overreach.
Judge of Court of Appeals – 2nd District
One candidate is running for one six-year term. Michigan court of appeals judges receive a salary of $173,092.
Colleen A. O’Brien
Running unnopposed.
Judge of Court of Appeals – 2nd District (Partial Term)
Two candidates are running for one partial term ending Jan. 1, 2027. Michigan court of appeals judges receive a salary of $173,092.
Sima Patel
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Michael Warren
Age: 55
Occupation: Judge, Oakland Circuit Court
Municipality of residence: Beverly Hills
For how long: 27 years
Online campaign information: www.JudgeMichaelWarren.com
Education: Wayne State University, BA Honors History (1989); University of Michigan Law School, JD (1992)
Previously and currently held elected offices: State Board of Education (1999-2002); Judge, Oakland County Circuit Court (2002-present)
Top goals: For decades Judge Michael Warren has been tenaciously fighting for justice, the rule of law, fairness, and the Constitution. He has tried over 360 jury trials and was named Judge of the Decade. Endorsed by Sheriff Mike Bouchard (R), Sheriff Anthony Wickersham (D), and the Police Officers Association of Michigan; he co-founded Patriot Week with his then 10 year old daughter (www.PatriotWeek.org). His leadership and experience will strengthen Michigan’s Court of Appeals.
Justice of Supreme Court
Five candidates are running for two eight-year terms. Justices earn a salary of $165,000.
Richard Bernstein
Age: 48
Occupation: Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court
Municipality of residence: Birmingham
For how long: 23 years in Birmingham and lifelong resident of Michigan
Online campaign information: TheBlindJustice.com
Education: Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of Michigan and earned juris doctor from Northwestern University School of Law
Previously and currently held elected offices: Former member of the Wayne State University Board of Governors and current Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court
Top goals: The greatest need in Michigan’s justice system is increasing access to justice so all people have an opportunity to participate and navigate the justice system without getting left behind. The Michigan Supreme Court’s Justice For All Task Force is committed to working towards 100% access to justice in the civil system and I applaud the effort to make Michigan courts more accessible to all people statewide.
Kyra Harris Bolden
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Paul Hudson
Age: 40
Occupation: Lawyer
Municipality of residence: Kalamazoo
For how long: 10 years
Online campaign information: www.hudsonforjustice.com
Education: Cornell University, B.A. in Government and Philosophy, 2003; Georgetown University Law Center, J.D., cum laude, 2006
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: As a Supreme Court Justice, my top goal is to be the fiercely independent, nonpartisan, and fair-minded judicial umpire that Michigan voters deserve. A good judge, much like a good umpire, doesn’t make up the rules or change them mid-game. A good judge just calls balls and strikes, faithfully applying the rules as written – fairly, consistently, and without favoring one side or the other.
Kerry Lee Morgan
Age: 67
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Redford Township
For how long: 40years
Online campaign information: https://www.martindale.com/attorney/kerry-lee-morgan-2161158/
Education: Michigan State University, B.A.; Regent University, M.A.; Detroit College of Law, J.D.
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: The Supreme Court needs Justices who will apply the law as written, not as it should be written in the mind of the Judge. The restoration of this purpose is my top goal.
Brian Zahra
Age: 62
Occupation: Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court
Municipality of residence: Northville Township
For how long: 24 years
Online campaign information: Zahra4Justice.com
Education: JD, University of Detroit School of Law (1987); BGS, Wayne State University (1984)
Previously and currently held elected offices: Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, January 14, 2011 to present. Elected in 2012, re-elected in 2014. Judge of the Michigan Court of Appeals, December, 1998 to January 13, 2011. Elected in 2000, re-elected in 2006. Judge of the Wayne County Circuit Court, December 1994 to December 1998. Elected in 1996.
Top goals: Continue to be a voice for judicial restraint, an advocate for the separation of constitutional powers, and a defender of our state and federal constitutions. Administratively, I will continue my work as Co-Chair of the Access to Justice Commission. There is no right to a lawyer in civil cases. Nonetheless, these cases involve issues critically important to Michigan families. The legal profession must step up to provide guidance to those unable to obtain legal assistance.
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