Home Up Federal & State Candidates Local Candidates Campaign2003 Campaign 2004 CAMPAIGN 2005 Campaign2006 General 2006 Primary2007 General 2007 General 2008 Primary 2009 General 2009

wpe3.jpg (52251 bytes)

2009 General Election

2009 Sample Ballot

 

 

 

 

JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court is the highest judicial authority in the Commonwealth. In addition to being the final court of appeals, it serves as administrator of the unified court system and is responsible for ensuring that all Pennsylvania courts perform their duties properly. The Court hears decisions of the Superior and Commonwealth Courts and in certain cases, including those involving the death penalty, from the Courts of Common Pleas. It may also assume jurisdiction over any case pending before a lower court that involves an issue of immediate public importance. There are seven Supreme Court justices, the Chief Justice being the one having the longest continuous service on the Court.

Term: 10 years  Salary: $186,450  (Vote for one.)

Question:  The Judicial Conduct Board handles complaints about sitting judges filed by the general public. The Board reviews the complaints and if necessary, action can be taken by the Court of Judicial Discipline.  How do you think this system of judicial oversight is working?   Does it meet the public’s need for assurance that justice is being served?

DEMOCRATIC

JACK PANELLA,                              Bethlehem

D.O.B:                                             1955                                                                          

EDUCATION:                                      1977, St. John’s University, B.S.; 1980, Columbus School of Law, CUA, J.D.

OCCUPATION:                                   Superior Court Judge         

QUALIFICATIONS:                           County Solicitor, 4 years; Court of Common Pleas Judge, 12 years; Superior Court Judge, 5 years; Chair, Judicial Auditing Agency, 4 years; Administrative Judge, Wiretap Applications, 5 years; President, Court of Judicial Discipline, 1 year.

ANSWER TO QUESTION:                As a former Chair of the Judicial Conduct Board and President Judge of the Court of Judicial Discipline, I know that, under the current system, allegations of judicial misconduct are thoroughly investigated and judges are held accountable for their misdeeds.  Unfortunately, the public is largely unaware that this system of oversight even exists.  We need to do more to educate the public, while balancing the rights of the accused with the need for greater transparency.

REPUBLICAN

JOAN ORIE MELVIN,                     Pittsburgh

D.O.B:                                           1956                                                          

EDUCATION:                                      1978, Notre Dame, B.A.; 1981, Duquesne Law, J.D.

OCCUPATION:                                   Superior Court Judge         

QUALIFICATIONS:                           24 years judicial experience; Superior Court Judge, 12 years, 8000 appeals; Allegheny County Common Pleas Judge, 7 ½ years, (served Criminal, Family, Civil Divisions); Chief Magistrate, Pittsburgh Municipal Courts, 5 years, established Pennsylvania’s first Domestic Violence Court; private practice, corporate counsel.

ANSWER TO QUESTION:                Recent judicial abuses of power and corruption have heightened the public’s awareness about judicial ethics. Is it possible that during the 5 years of the Luzerne County scandal, no citizen or professional ever filed a complaint in the worst instance of judicial corruption in America’s history? The newly formed inter-branch Juvenile Justice Commission should investigate to ensure that no complaints were disregarded and recommend ways to improve and bring transparency to the Judicial Conduct Board.

JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR COURT

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Pennsylvania Superior Court is one of two intermediate appellate courts.  It hears all criminal and civil appeals from the Courts of Common Pleas except for death penalty cases and those that are specifically assigned to the Commonwealth Court.  The Court has fifteen judges, with the President Judge elected by the members.  Judges of the Superior Court must be lawyers and must reside in Pennsylvania for at least a year before their election and for as long as they continue in office.

Term: 10 years  Salary: $175,923  (Vote for not more than four.)

Question:  The Judicial Conduct Board handles complaints about sitting judges filed by the general public. The Board reviews the complaints and if necessary, action can be taken by the Court of Judicial Discipline.  How do you think this system of judicial oversight is working?   Does it meet the public’s need for assurance that justice is being served?

DEMOCRATIC

ROBERT J COLVILLE,                 Pittsburgh

D.O.B:                                      1965                                                          

EDUCATION:                                      1989, Penn State, B.A.; 1992, Duquesne University J.D.

OCCUPATION:                                   Common Pleas Court Judge                             

QUALIFICATIONS:                           Trial Judge, 10 years; (Juvenile, Adult Family & Civil)

Juvenile Court Procedural Rules Committee, 7 years; Officer and President of PA Conference of State Trial Judges, 6 years; Trial Lawyer, 7 years; Law Clerk, PA Supreme Court, 2 years; Legislative Aide, Washington DC less than 1 yr.; Public Defender Intern, 2 years; Union Laborer, 7 years. Endorsed by PA AFL-CIO and many others. Primary Endorsement by Pittsburgh Post Gazette, Philadelphia Inquirer, Pittsburgh Tribune Review.

ANSWER TO QUESTION:                The Judicial Conduct Board and the Court of Judicial Discipline are responsible institutions that aggressively investigate reports of judicial corruption in the hopes of eradicating it.  Unfortunately, as with all human endeavors they, sometimes, fall short of their aspirations.  It is my hope that, in spite of the recent reports of the morally reprehensible and criminal conduct of a few individuals and the resultant tragic consequences to the specific individuals directly affected by such miscarriages of justice, the public will maintain its trust that the vast majority of our judges are honorable.

KEVIN FRANCIS MCCARTHY, Pittsburgh

D.O.B:                                                1961                                                          

EDUCATION:                                      1983, University of Pittsburgh, B.A.; 1986, University of Pittsburgh School of Law, J.D.

OCCUPATION:                                   Assistant District Attorney – Allegheny County                           

QUALIFICATIONS:                           Law Clerk, James Rowley, J., Superior Court of Pennsylvania, 2 years Law Clerk, Fred Adams, and William Frank, J.J., Court of Common Pleas, Fayette County, Allegheny County District Attorney, Appellate Unit 18 years

ANSWER TO QUESTION:                I believe this system of judicial oversight provides an efficient method for addressing complaints.  It strikes a balance for the full and fair investigation of charges of judicial irregularities and malfeasance with the understanding that parties often feel aggrieved when dissatisfied with their cases’ results.  The previous system required the board to function as investigator and jury.  The current system separates these functions between two different boards, allowing each to fully commit to its role.

ANNE E. LAZARUS,                         Philadelphia

D.O.B:                                             1952                                                          

EDUCATION:                                      1972, SUNY at Stony Brook, B.A.; 1976, Temple University School of Law, J.D.; 1986, Temple University School of Law, L.L.M.

OCCUPATION:                                   Common Pleas Judge                        

QUALIFICATIONS:                           Court of Common Pleas, 18 years; Attorney, 11 years

                                                                Ethics Committee, Pennsylvania Conference of State Trial Judges, Chair, First-ever recipient, PA Bar Association’s Judicial Pro Bono Award

ANSWER TO QUESTION:                As Chair of the Ethics Committee of the State Conference of Trial Judges, I can attest that the Conduct Board, composed of lay persons, attorneys and judges, thoroughly reviews any complaint they receive and if they decide to pursue prosecution, it is vigorous.  I believe that the diverse group guarantees that the public’s concerns are well met.  If other disciplines were as ardent at policing their own, the public would be much better off.

TERESA SARMINA,                         Philadelphia

No response received

REPUBLICAN

JUDY OLSON,                                    Wexford

D.O.B:                                                1957                                                          

EDUCATION:                                      1979, St. Francis College, B.A.; 1982, Duquesne University School of Law, J.D.

OCCUPATION:                                   Common Pleas Court Judge             

QUALIFICATIONS:                           Trial and appellate lawyer, 27 years; Chairman, Antitrust Group and Partner-in-Charge of Litigation (Pgh. Office), Schnader Harrison Segal & Lewis LLP, “Highly Recommended” by PA Bar Association

ANSWER TO QUESTION:                Nothing is more important to the operation of our judicial system than preserving the honor, dignity, independence and integrity of the Pennsylvania judiciary.  The Board works hard to enforce the ethics laws by investigating allegations made against a judge and pursuing those claims that are meritorious.  However, it is the responsibility of all citizens to make sure that the Board functions properly by bringing concerns to the Board’s attention and keeping the Board’s actions transparent.

SALLIE MUNDY,                              Tioga

D.O.B:                                            1962                                                          

EDUCATION:                                      1984, Washington and Jefferson College, B.A.; 1987, University of Pittsburgh School of Law, J.D.

OCCUPATION:                                   Attorney               

QUALIFICATIONS:                           I am a litigator with extensive experience in defending civil suits brought against doctors and nurses accused of malpractice as well as in the representation of catastrophically injured individuals as claimants.  I have also practiced criminal law as a volunteer Public Defender.  I am honest, impartial and industrious.

ANSWER TO QUESTION:                The key to public trust is transparency.  All documents filed with, and all headings held before, the Court of Judicial Discipline are open to the public.  The Judicial Conduct Board, which investigates complaints against a judge, does have confidentiality but I believe the public understands that confidentiality is necessary not only to protect the reputation of an unjustly accused judge, but also to prevent retaliation against the complainant.  Appointments to these entities are accomplished in a manner that assures that neither political party, nor the judiciary itself can achieve control.

TEMP SMITH,                                   Pittsburgh

D.O.B:                                            1952                                                          

EDUCATION:                                      1974, Washington & Lee University, B.A. (English); 1977, University of Pittsburgh School of Law, J.D.

OCCUPATION:                                   Attorney               

QUALIFICATIONS:                           Extensive experience briefing and arguing appellate cases on a wide variety of issues; more than 31 years of legal practice in diverse areas of law; ratings of “Recommended” from PA Bar Association and “Highly Recommended” from Allegheny County Bar Association.

ANSWER TO QUESTION:                The existing system of judicial oversight appears to be working.  I view the fact that serious misconduct has recently been discovered in trial courts in two counties, not as an indication of systemic failure, but rather as an indication that the vast majority of Pennsylvania’s judges are fulfilling their duties and that the very few who are not, are not being discovered and dealt with appropriately.

PAULA OTT,                                      West Chester

D.O.B.                                               1950

EDUCATION:                                      Temple University School of Law, J.D. 1975; LL.M. 1981;  University of Delaware, B.A. 1972

OCCUPATION:                                   President Judge, Court of Common Pleas of Chester County

QUALIFICATIONS:                           Judge, Court of Common Please of Chester County (1992-present);

                                                                Partner, Gawthrop Greenwood (1981-1992)

                                                                Assistant County Solicitor (1978-1981)

                                                                President, PA Conference of State Trial Judges (2003-2004)

                                                                March of Dimes Woman of Achievement (1993)

ANSWER TO QUESTION:                The Judicial Conduct Board is an excellent system that allows for the

                                                                Bipartisan and confidential investigation of complaints from any person

who files a written complaint against judges in any Court. Every complaint is investigated. The confidentiality of the investigation protects the complainant from retaliation and the judge from embarrassment if the complaint is unfounded. If the complaint is founded, then the public should know if a judge has violated any law or the Code of Judicial Conduct.

LIBERTARIAN

MARAKAY ROGERS,                      York

No Response Received

JUDGE OF THE COMMONWEALTH COURT

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Commonwealth Court is one of Pennsylvania's two statewide intermediate appellate courts. Its jurisdiction generally is limited to legal matters involving state and local government and regulatory agencies. Litigation typically focuses on such subjects as banking, insurance and utility regulation and laws affecting taxation, land use, elections, labor practices and workers compensation. Commonwealth Court also acts as a court of original jurisdiction, or a trial court, when lawsuits are filed by or against the Commonwealth.  The Court has nine judges, with the President Judge chosen by its members. The court generally decides cases in three-judge panels and sits in Philadelphia, Harrisburg and Pittsburgh.

Term: 10 years  Salary: $175,923  (Vote for not more than 2)

Question:  The Judicial Conduct Board handles complaints about sitting judges filed by the general public. The Board reviews the complaints and if necessary, action can be taken by the Court of Judicial Discipline.  How do you think this system of judicial oversight is working?   Does it meet the public’s need for assurance that justice is being served?

DEMOCRATIC

BARBARA ERNSBERGER,           Pittsburgh

D.O.B:                                                1951                                                                                          

EDUCATION:                                      1973, University of Pittsburgh, B.A., cum laude; 1976, Duquesne University School of Law, J.D.

OCCUPATION:                                   Attorney and Partner, Behrend and Ernsberger, PC

QUALIFICATIONS:                           Attorney, 32 years, Community Advisory Board, 6 years; Commissioner City of Pittsburgh Department of Planning, 4 years; Chair of City Pittsburgh Democratic Committee of (32) wards, 7 years; Trustee, Shadyside Presbyterian Church Nursery School, 5 years; Pittsburgh City Council, Woman of the Year 2002.

ANSWER TO QUESTION:                The system of judicial oversight is working for complaints that are filed for the Judicial Conduct Board to review.  However, if there is improper activity outside the scope of the Board’s review, such as the two judges in Scranton, who were taking monies for referrals of juveniles, to juvenile facilities, then the system did not work.  The public needs assurance through the creation of a task force to examine the juvenile court referral system and make creative recommendations.

LINDA S JUDSON,                            Pittsburgh

D.O.B:                                                    None Given                                                          

EDUCATION:                                      1979, St. Francis General Hospital, Alvernia School of Practical Nursing, L.P.N.; 1986, University of Pittsburgh, B.A. (cum laude); 1990, Duquesne University School of Law, J.D.

OCCUPATION:                                   Attorney

QUALIFICATIONS:                           Attorney 20 years practice in matters that come before Commonwealth Court: 1991, Clerk for Commonwealth Court, Honorable Bernard McGinley; 1991-93, Technical Specialist (as an attorney), Marsh & McLennan Insurance regulation, risk management, regulatory compliance including OSHA & workplace safety matters.

ANSWER TO QUESTION:                Current problems in certain counties clearly indicate that the system is not working.  Through education of the public, including posted notices in courtroom areas, awareness of the recourse provided by the Judicial Conduct Board should be developed.  Internal judicial system guidelines should reinforce the obligations of each judge to the integrity of the entire system.

REPUBLICAN

PATRICIA A MCCULLOUGH,     Pittsburgh

D.O.B:                                      1956                                                          

EDUCATION:                            1978, University of Pittsburgh, B.A.; 1980, University Strasbourg; 1981, University of Pittsburgh School of Law, J.D.

OCCUPATION:                                   Attorney

QUALIFICATIONS:                           Served as Judge, Allegheny County Court Common Pleas; Attorney (28 years) private/corporate practice; Executive Director Catholic Charities; member/chair Allegheny County Board of Property Appeals; Adjunct faculty member; state/local committeewoman; community volunteer.

ANSWER TO QUESTION:                Although the JCB is committed to ensuring that justice is served, the promulgation of specific criteria governing areas like the conduct of judicial campaigns and contributions would improve the ability to benchmark fairness and impartiality.  Because of my commitment to these ideals, I did not take the pay raise while a judge in Allegheny County’s Court of Common Pleas and will not take campaign donations from special interest groups or lawyers.

KEVIN BROBSON,                           Harrisburg

D.O.B:                                             1970                                                          

EDUCATION:                                      Lycoming College, B.A.; Widener University, J.D. (2nd in Class)

OCCUPATION:                                   Attorney

QUALIFICATIONS:                           Broad-based Commonwealth Court practice; Recommended by PA Bar Association; Middle Paxton Twp. Planning Commission; American Inns of Court; Commonwealth Court Historical Society; Best Lawyers in America; Dauphin County Bar and PA Bar Pro Bono Award Winner; Married, father of three.

ANSWER TO QUESTION:                Grounded in our state Constitution, the process serves an important role in our justice system.  Half of the Judicial Conduct Board’s twelve members must be neither lawyers nor judges, ensuring substantial involvement of the general public in this oversight role.  Generally, I believe the process has been and can continue to be effective.  Like any public institution, however, its effectiveness can only be evaluated by the work of those entrusted to keep it.

PENNSYLVANIA JUDICIAL RETENTION ELECTIONS

Judicial retention is a system of retaining judges for additional terms after they have been elected on a partisan, contested ballot. Previously elected incumbent candidates for justice or judge appear unopposed on the ballot. The only question confronting the voter is whether or not the judge should be retained.

All judicial retention candidates were asked to list their education, occupation and qualifications for this office as well as the same question on the Judicial Conduct Board.

RETENTION ELECTION

JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR COURT

(Vote Yes or No)                                  Shall Kate Ford Elliott be retained for an additional term as Judge of the Superior Court of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania?

KATE FORD ELLIOTT,                 Pittsburgh             

DOB:                                        1949

EDUCATION:                           1971, University of Pittsburgh, B.A.; 1973, Duquesne University, M.S.; 1978, Duquesne University School of Law, Evening Division, J.D.

OCCUPATION:                                   President Judge, Superior Court of Pennsylvania

QUALIFICATIONS:                           Judge, Superior Court of Pennsylvania, 20 years; Attorney, Kirkpatrick & Lockhart, 2 years; Chief Staff Attorney, Superior Court of Pennsylvania, 5 ½ years; Administrative Assistant to the President Judge, Superior Court of Pennsylvania, 2 years; Judicial Law Clerk, 2 years.

ANSWER TO QUESTION:                The purpose of the Constitutional Amendment enacted in 1993, creating both the Judicial Conduct Board and the Court of Judicial Discipline, was to create an independent review procedure for judicial discipline. The composition of the Board and the Court specifically provided for greater participation by non-lawyers and non-judges in the investigation and review of judicial misconduct. I believe the system is functioning precisely as was intended when the citizens of Pennsylvania approved its creation.

RETENTION ELECTION

JUDGE OF THE COMMONWEALTH COURT

(Vote Yes or No)      Shall Dan Pellegrini be retained for an additional term as Judge of the Commonwealth Court of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania?

DAN PELLEGRINI,                          Pittsburgh

D.O.B.:                                          1945

EDUCATION:                                      Duquesne University, B.A., 1967; Duquesne University School of Law, J.D., 1970

OCCUPATION:                                   Judge, Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania

QUALIFICATIONS:                           Judge of the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania since 1990. City Solicitor of the City of  Pittsburgh for eight years. Trustee of the National Institute of Municipal Law Officers for 5 years. Taught at National Judicial College and Institute of Judicial Administration.

ANSWER TO QUESTION:                Article 5, § 18 of the Pennsylvania Constitution, adopted by the electorate in 1993, provides a method for reporting, adjudicating and sanctioning judges for misconduct in office.  Once reported, the public should be assured that misconduct, if proven, will be punished, either through the Court of Judicial Discipline and/or referral to the proper prosecutorial authorities. That system of judicial oversight appears to be working.

CANDIDATES FOR LOCAL CONTESTED OFFICES

JUDGE OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS

JOB DISCRIPTION

Lebanon County is the 52nd Judicial District, presided over by four judges. The Court of Common Pleas is divided into civil division, criminal division, family division and orphans , court division.  Criminal trials are held at least 12 times a year and civil trials about six times a year.

Term:  10 years  Salary: Basic $175,923  Vote for one

 
  Judicial Candidates Charlie Jones and Loreen Burkett  YouTube 9:30
bulletSince the newest judge usually gets assigned juvenile cases, that question was selected for the judges.
bulletBecause there were only two judicial candidates, their opening statements and the question on isolation were able to be added.
bulletFor fairness, no edits were made to the question(s) based on what would fit in a ten-minute maximum segment dictated by YouTube parameters.

Democratic

  LOREEN M. BURKETT Lebanon                               

DOB:  1964                                

EDUCATION:  1985, Albright College, B.A.; 1988, Dickinson School of Law, Juris Doctor              

OCCUPATION:  Attorney                

QUALIFICATIONS:  Attorney, 21 years;  Child Law Guardian, 18 years;  Custody Conciliator, 9 years;  Special Master, 9 years;  Founder MidPenn Legal Services Custody Clinic, 17 years;  Immediate past president Lebanon County Bar Association;  Recipient of PBA pro bono and leadership awards.            

Republican

  CHARLIE JONES  Lebanon

DOB:  1966                                

EDUCATION:  Northern Lebanon High School 1984;  Dickinson College, B.A. 1988;  University of Pittsburg,  Juris Doctor 1991          

OCCUPATION:  Lebanon County Chief Public Defender        

QUALIFICATIONS:  Assistant Public Defender, 2 years;  Chief Public Defender, 15 years;  Admitted to Bar of the United States Supreme Court;  Lebanon County and Pennsylvania Bar Associations;  Vice chairman of the Criminal Justice Advisory Board  

Note:  Sitting Judge Brad Charles is on the ballot for a yes or no vote to be retained on the Lebanon County Court of Common Pleas.  Charles is NOT running against either Burkett or Jones.

SCHOOL DIRECTOR

JOB DESCRIPTION

Responsible for the policy direction of a school district.  Works with the school administration to approve curriculum changes, the school calendar, contracts, real estate and per capita taxes.

Term: 4 years  Salary:  none   Vote for not more than four

QUESTION:  WHAT RESOURCES OR EXPENDITURES DO YOU FAVOR CUTTING, IN A SITUATION IN WHICH REVENUES DON'T EXPAND AS FAST AS DEMANDS FOR THEM?

ANNVILLE-CLEONA

Democratic/Republican

MARK E. DITZLER  Cleona

NO REPLY

DEBRA A. HESS  Annville

NO REPLY

Democratic

ANN C. HAYES  Annville

NO REPLY

Democratic/Republican

  JOE ZIMMERMAN  Annville

DOB:  1948                                

EDUCATION:  Lebanon Valley College, B.S.;  Millersville State College, M.S.;  Villanova University, M.A. 

OCCUPATION:  High School Technology Teacher;  Baltimore City Public School             

QUALIFICATIONS:  I have held 4 variety of problem-solving and consensus-building positions since 1988.  I have attended most work sessions and school board meetings since Spring, 2008.             

ANSWER TO QUESTION:  First, I favor reducing resources or expenditures beginning with those which have the least correlation to our Mission Statement.  Second, resources or expenditures which have the least amount of student-teacher contact time must receive primary consideration.  The identification of these resources or expenditures must be an open process involving all of the district stakeholders.  I believe the school board must seek the positive creativity of community members to help solve budget problems.

Republican

JAMES R. WRIGHT  Lebanon

NO REPLY

PALMYRA AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT

 Democratic/Republican

KURT G. KOENNECKE  Palmyra

DOB:  1971                             

EDUCATION:  1994, Lockhaven University, B.S.      

OCCUPATION:  Sr. Neuroscience sales specialist       

QUALIFICATIONS:  Over 18 years management experience to include;  P&L management, contract negotiation, personnel management               

ANSWER TO QUESTION:  The current school board has done a prudent job in containing cost and balancing the budget in hard economic times.  It would be my desire to continue in the direction set by the current school board administration.

Democratic

ROBERT A. SLOBOZIEN Palmyra

NO REPLY

Republican

GEORGE DOWNEY  Palmyra

NO REPLY

  CHRISTOPHER S. CONNELL, Sr.  Palmyra

DOB:  1967                                

EDUCATION:  BS - Mount Union College;  BS - Bloomsburg University              

OCCUPATION:  IT business professional     

QUALIFICATIONS:  IT business management, working with people in a global company, communication, project management.       

ANSWER TO QUESTION:  Cutting any kind of resource or expenditure when revenues decline is always a difficult decision and needs to be carefully analyzed.  Our teachers are our most important asset.  That said, every program, position, grant opportunity and cost improvements should be looked into so that options can be considered where there would be zero impact in the education of our students.

LORI A. GALL  Palmyra  **missed deadline to be published in The Lebanon Daily News

DOB:  1967

EDUCATION:  Graduated Richland High School, Johnstown, PA 1967

OCCUPATION:  Senior Vice President, Administration Mid-Atlantic Corporate Federal Credit Union

QUALIFICATIONS:  Nearly 23 years of management experience at Mid-Atlantic Corporate FCU

ANSWER TO QUESTION:  Thankfully, at this time, Palmyra Area School District is not facing many of the economic challanges other districts are.  Over the last decade, we have been able to absorb an increase in population growth while continuing to manage the strains placed on the curriculum we offer.  Although, I'm sure, we will need to reevaluate our position if the state budget impasse continues.

EASTERN LEBANON SCHOOL DISTRICT

2 year term  Vote for not more than two   

Democratic

  VICKY K. WOODARD  Myerstown

DOB:  1956                                

EDUCATION:  MS ED, Educational Computing, 1994, Buffalo State College, Buffalo, NY;  Teacher Certification, 1988, Daemen College, Buffalo, NY BS, Information Systems and Technology, 1987, State University of New York;  AS, Data Processing, 1982 

OCCUPATION:  Retired                   

QUALIFICATIONS:  Taught at the college level;  Raised two children;  Supported Save our Schools;  Values education         

ANSWER TO QUESTION:  I would look carefully for waste and duplication first, especially in administration.  I would seek to avoid any reductions that would impact the learning environment.  For example, ELCO has a great student to teacher ration now, and I would be opposed to any reduction in the instructional staff.  I would oppose any new construction projects.

NOEL HERTZOG  Newmanstown

DOB:  1944                                

EDUCATION:  1970, Pennsylvania State University, B.S.        

OCCUPATION:  Retired                   

QUALIFICATIONS:  Millcreek Township Supervisor, 12 years;  ELCO teacher, 35 years 

ANSWER TO QUESTION:  I would favor cutting whatever resources or expenditures that have the least impact on student education, programs, and services.  The students should be the number one priority for anyone seeking a position on the School Board.  As I worked in the classroom I tried to put children's needs first.  As I worked for the Township I stayed in touch with the citizens.  Revenues will be a definite concern in the future.

Republican

JADELL SOUDERS  Myerstown

DOB: 1947                                

EDUCATION:  1965 ELCO High School graduate;  B.S. in Elementary Education from Millersville University, 1969;  Master's Equivalency, Millersville University, 1978.   

OCCUPATION:  June 2003 retired from teaching 30+ years in the ELCO School District. 

QUALIFICATIONS:  Resident of Heidelberg Township for 46 years.  Have consistently attended ELCO school board meetings for the last 1 1/2 years.          

ANSWER TO QUESTION:  If revenues don't expand as fast as demands for them I believe an honest, in-depth inspection of current budget expenses should be carefully reviewed.  Any "deemed extras," such as administration, board, faculty travel, in these uncertain economic times should be eliminated.  The constituents must be clearly informed as to why/how these cuts are being done.  No entity, school districts included, should incur additional debts to be passed on to the already over-burdened taxpayers.

  BRANDON P. BERNARD  Myerstown

DOB:                                                     

EDUCATION:  1997 graduate ELCO General Studies               

OCCUPATION:  Fulton Bank Branch Manager          

QUALIFICATIONS:  My wife and I are raising two young children in the school district and I have a vested interest in helping improve the quality of our schools and the community.  I intend to bring years of banking experience to the board.               

ANSWER TO QUESTION:  It is imperative that expenditures be thoroughly analyzed.  It is the board's responsibility to scrutinize the entire budget and determine which items benefit our district and which ones do not.  We're in tough economic times and we must not forget the taxpayers that are going through these times.  The community places a significant amount of trust in their school board to balance fiscal realities with the desire of providing our children with a quality education.

 LEBANON CITY COUNCIL

JOB DESCRIPTION

All legislative powers of the city shall be vested in the Council except as otherwise provided in the Charter.

Term:  4 years  Salary:  $1200  - Vote for Not More Than Two

 
  Lebanon City Council Candidates address $3 million debt  YouTube 8:38
bulletFor fairness, no edits were made to the question(s) based on what would fit in a ten-minute maximum segment dictated by YouTube parameters.
bulletUndoubtedly the biggest problem facing the City is their budget deficit.  So, the budget question was highlighted.
bulletBecause there were four candidates each giving 2-minute answers, only one Council question could be used.

QUESTION:  HOW DO YOU VIEW RACE ISSUES IN TOWN AND IF ELECTED WHAT WOULD YOU DO IN REGARD TO THIS ISSUE?

 Democratic

  SCOTT D. KOONS  Lebanon

DOB:  1960                             

EDUCATION:  1978 graduate Lebanon High School, 1979 US Navy Data System School graduate             

OCCUPATION:  Owner SDK Electronics.  Electronics technician            

QUALIFICATIONS:  Business owner for 17 years;  Immediate past president and current secretary Lebanon Veterans Advisory Council; Former Active Volunteer State Certified City Fighter; Working knowledge of municipal bid process from a business perspective.

ANSWER TO QUESTION:  I believe that Lebanon's race relations have improved markedly over the last 20 years.  I believe this improvement is attributable to the fact that the people of Lebanon and governmental agencies have been color/race blind.  Specifically, a person's race or color is irrelevant, and everyone is treated the same.  I believe that this is what we must strive to continue, and improve upon until type of question is never asked.

  JESSICA TAVARA  Lebanon

DOB:  1974                             

EDUCATION:  1993, Sawyer Business School, Elizabeth, NJ & diploma - Career Secretary/word processing;  1992, Saint Patricks High School, Elizabeth, NJ - high school diploma 

OCCUPATION:  Long term care Ombudsman, MidPenn Legal Services               

QUALIFICATIONS:  Lebanon County Council of Human Services, Treasurer 2 years;  L.C.C.H.S.A. secretary 2 years;  Leadership Lebanon Valley Alumni - 2005;  Habitat for Humanity Sponsor........    

ANSWER TO QUESTION:  As on Ombudsman, my ultimate goal is to resolve complaints while ensuring quality of care and quality of life.  In the same manner I want to work towards the improvement of our city's quality of life during all the changes and pending projects.  I attend Pre-Council and City Council meetings as well as Elm Street Project Committee, Habitat for Humanity, Human Services Council and other projects that affect our city's revitalization, crime reduction and economy.

Republican

JOHN A. DISSINGER  Lebanon

DOB:  1967                             

EDUCATION:  1990, U.S. Naval Academy, B.S. Engineering, 1996-2006 FAA Qualified Flight Instructor   

OCCUPATION:  Commercial Airline Pilot    

QUALIFICATIONS:  Extensive leadership/managerial roles as a military officer culminating with being an Admiral's Aide, Pentagon, commanding the largest aviation division in the Navy overseeing 150 officer and enlisted personnel and supervising over 500 Naval aviators.     

ANSWER TO QUESTION:  I tell my children almost daily to believe in anything you want to...however, have a sound reason for that belief.  We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.  This is my belief and would apply these incredible words to our great city.

  TONY MATULA  Lebanon

DOB:  1957                             

EDUCATION:  My education stretches 52 years has included 30 years of enjoyable involvement in our local government & community: 1976 graduate Lebanon Catholic High School; 1976 graduate:  Harrisburg Barber School;  Owned and operated a successful business for 35 years; Learned to work with diversity.        

OCCUPATION:  Owner:  Anthony's 35 years              

QUALIFICATIONS:  I Love this City.           

ANSWER TO QUESTION:   The race issue has been part of culture, since the beginning of time.  And is most sensitive.  Whether it is language or the color barrier, it's about communication..  I'd approach the proud, bill paying, God fearing minority and non-minority leaders, to encourage and send a message;  "Those who lived here all there life or move in from others areas, that: they will not play there deck, break the law, then leave" "My prormise."

 BOROUGH COUNCIL

JOB DISCRIPTION

Holds executive and legislative powers of the Borough.  Responsible for passing ordinances and resolutions and managing the business of the Borough

2 Year term  Salary: varies  Vote for Not More Than 2

PALMYRA BOROUGH

 Democratic

  CORINNE TOPPER Palmyra

DOB:  1974                             

EDUCATION:  2002, Univ. of Pennsylvania, MGA (Masters Gov't Admin);  1997, Wake Forest, BA            

OCCUPATION:  former director Susquehanna Art Museum (until August 31, 2009)         

QUALIFICATIONS:   10 years of experience in non-profit adminstration;  appointed to Borough Council August 2009;  member, Main Street (322) Corridor Study Cont.

Republican

   J. SCOTT BIDDING  Palmyra

DOB:  1964                             

EDUCATION:  1987, Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania, B.S. Management Science, Economics and Finance.               

OCCUPATION:  Sales Manager, Demitri-Chesapeake Sales, Inc. - Specialty Brokerage - food & beverage industry  

QUALIFICATIONS:  Appointed to Borough Council 5 months ago as the non-incumbent with the most votes in the Primary election.  Over 5 years experience serving on the Board of Directors for the Tri-State Automatic Merchandisinal Council....

  JANE QUAIROLI  Palmyra

DOB: 1961                             

EDUCATION:  1979 graduate Cedar Crest High School           

OCCUPATION:  Assistant Distract Sales Manager, Kapp Advertising /The Merchandiser 

QUALIFICATIONS:  Friends of Old Annville Board of Directors 1997-2003;  Lebanon County Builders Association Board of Directors 2009-Present;  LV Chamber of Commerce Leadership LV graduate 2006

TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR

JOB DESCRIPTION

Holds the executive and legislative power of the Township.  Responsible for managing the business of the Township.

Term:  6 year Salary:  varies Vote For One 

BETHEL

 Democratic

  BILL DICKINSON Fredericksburg

DOB: 1946                             

EDUCATION:  no degrees                

OCCUPATION:  Quality Assurance Manager              

QUALIFICATIONS:  District Award of Merit Boy Scouts of America;  co chairman SME Boy Scouts of America

Republican

  BEVERLY MARTEL Fredericksburg

DOB: 1956                                   

EDUCATION:  1974 Loch Raven HS;  2 years of college at Towson State College;  1982 graduate Gemologist Gemological Inst of America

OCCUPATION:  Business Manager of Fredericksburg Dental Center     

QUALIFICATIONS:  Township Supervisor 5 1/2 years;  Business Mgr 23 years;  Paul Harris Fellow Rotary International;  Past President Northern Lebanon Rotary Club

 NORTH ANNVILLE

 Democratic

  JESSICA LANE  Annville

DOB:  1986                             

EDUCATION:  2005, high school diploma Annville-Cleona High School; 2010, B.S. Secondary Social Studies Education, California University of PA;  2010 B.A. History, California University of PA          

OCCUPATION:  Student                  

QUALIFICATIONS:  Awarded International President's Commendation from Lions Club International;  President of Alpha Phi Omega-Service Fraternity, Lions Club, Spring 2010 Harrisburg Governmental Office Intern

 Republican

  BRENT KAYLOR  Annville

DOB: 1962                             

EDUCATION:  1984, Penn State University, B.S.;  1985, Penn State University, M.S.        

OCCUPATION:  Farmer                   

QUALIFICATIONS:  Township Supervisor, 3 years;  Management &technology consultant, 18 years;  Longtime resident of North Annville Township (1962-1980 and 1999 to present);  Active in local community (Lebanon County Extension Board Member, North Annville Youth League, North Annville Planning Commission)

 Hit Counter