Carson City races are non-partisan. The profiles here are for candidates in contested races. The uncontested candidates on the ballot do not run in the general election. They are Clerk-Recorder Alan Glover, District Attorney Neil A. Rombardo, School Trustee for District 3 Stacie Wilke-McCulloch, School Trustee for District 4 Lynette Conrad, and Treasurer Al Kramer. The two candidates for Carson City assessor, incumbent David Dawley and challenger Ian
Mindling, both advance to the general election and do not appear on the primary ballot.
SHERIFF
KENNY FURLONG
Mailing Address:
1233 Windridge Drive,
Carson City NV
Telephone: 775-841-3553
E-mail: sherifffurlong@charter.net
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
A lifelong resident of Carson City, I've been your sheriff since 2003.
I have a bachelor of arts degree in criminal justice administration, and Law Enforcement Executive Management Certification, the highest level of peace officers certification in Nevada. I worked for the Department of Public Safety, Parole and Probation, and the Investigation Division.
I'm a 20-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Office of Special Investigations, specializing in investigating narcotics, child abuse and major crimes.
As sheriff, I've implemented strategic planning practices benefiting efficient budgetary management, crime prevention programs, aggressive gang and narcotic enforcement, and juvenile programs.
My administrative staff has over 120 years of law enforcement experience. We have generated broad-based community programs such as Enforcement of Under Age Drinking Laws, Tri-County Gang Enforcement, Specialized Crime Enforcement, Juvenile Delinquency Prevention and alternative programs, D.A.R.E., Neighborhood Watch, Citizens Police Academy, and enhanced volunteer and reserve programs.
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
I view all crimes as a significant detriment to the quality of life of our residents and visitors. My priorities have been to aggressively target gangs and narcotic activities, traffic safety, and work with youth. It is imperative to continue the proactive programs implemented during the previous years of this administration which have given strong indications of early success.
During my next term of office, this administration will implement dramatic education and training of officers in the handling of senior citizen victim and abuse cases.
I will continue to evaluate any new programs and initiatives that will strengthen our aggressive enforcement efforts to stop crimes. These include building upon opportunities through public awareness and participation, grant-funded initiatives, innovative enforcement, collaborative multi-jurisdictional crime operations, and inter-local agreements. Building upon our community partnership efforts, this administration will focus intensive efforts toward prevention-based programs.
Why should voters choose you over other candidates?
I have a proven record of action resulting in positive change. As your sheriff, I have done what I said. My administration has always encouraged cooperation, innovation and initiative to develop new ideas. The other candidates currently have the authority to help implement the very programs they are promising you today. To this date, they have not taken a proactive role.
My education, qualifications and experience are unparalleled to the other two. My enthusiasm, energy, visibility and dedication to the community are as strong today as when first elected.
With your support you will continue to see positive change, the sheriff in uniform, open and accessible law enforcement, a Sheriff's Office engaged in the community and a sheriff you can call Kenny, who loves Carson City.
BOB GUIMONT
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1151
Carson City Nevada, 89702
Telephone: 775-885-4000
E-mail: guimontforsheriff@gmail.com
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
As of this August I will have been in law enforcement for 20 years. My background ranges from deputy, unit supervisor, sergeant, instructor, field training officer and S.W.A.T. commander. As the S.W.A.T commander I was responsible for the actions of team members and their safety, victims' safety, suspects and the safety of our citizens that live in the surrounding area of the critical incident. I was also responsible for the team's training and education. If the team was short on funds we would overcome and adapt through multiple grants, donations and out of our own pockets. With a limited budget the team was able to think outside the box and accommodate the needs of Carson.
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
I am completely disgusted with the gang and drug issue that has ruined our community's quality of life. The gangs and drug dealers will not find a home and I will not be their friend. It is my goal to rid our community of this ongoing problem.
We need a special victims unit to investigate from start to finish child abuse, elder abuse, sexual assault and domestic violence. Our victims of violent crime deserve and demand our attention. Our senior citizens and victims of crime need our support and will have a say in their community.
Spending at the Sheriff's Office needs to change in order to retain employees and bring back laid-off personnel. Under my administration, take-home vehicles and administrators' pay will be cut. If the current tax base does not improve I am prepared to make additional cuts prior to the next fiscal year ultimately keeping a qualified force to protect our citizens.
Why should voters choose you over other candidates?
Our team's campaign is not against the other candidates, but it is against the true criminals of our city and for the citizens that are as fed up as I am with their actions. I truly believe that a sheriff or police chief should treat their community as their own front yard. If I awoke one morning to find gangs, drug dealers and thieves in my front yard I would clear it without hesitation and ensure that their return to my property would be more unpleasant than our first meeting.
I will address and deal with the demands of our citizens and be judged on the merit of our work and not respond with political lip service. The one thing I would like everyone to remember about this 2010 campaign is that I am not a politician but am dedicated to bringing a better quality of life to Carson City.
BOB WHITE
Address: P.O. Box 21830
Carson City, Nev. 89721
Telephone: 775-291-0014
E-mail: bobwhite@electbobwhitesheriff.com
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
I started my law enforcement career in January 1979 when I joined the United States Air Force, security police. In 1991, I began my career with the Carson City Sheriff's Office as a patrol deputy. Some of my assignment in patrol consisted of field training officer training newly assigned deputies. After working patrol I was promoted to detective in 1996 and I was promoted to patrol sergeant in 2000. I was re-assigned to patrol as a sergeant and in 2003 I took over management of the Investigations/Detective Division. In 2006 I was promoted to lieutenant and in 2008 I took over as patrol commander. I attended the FBI National Academy in 2009 and was promoted to captain upon graduation. I have attained the highest level of certification from Nevada P.O.S.T., the Executive Certificate.
My 19 years of dedicated service and my extensive experience in management and supervision is what Carson City needs from their chief law enforcement officer.
I've held many varying positions within the department and have a combined 30 years experience in military and civilian law enforcement.
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
The most important issues in Carson City are gang violence and drugs along with fiscal responsibility.
Voters need to question the candidates for sheriff and ask what they will do to handle the gang and drug problems in Carson City while being fiscally responsible with taxpayer money.
The next sheriff needs to have verifiable plans to take Carson City into the future and provide a safe, secure quality of life. The citizens deserve leadership that is experienced and educated in the management and supervision of 150 employees and $14.7 million budget.
My proposals, the Community Response Team, Retired Annuitants, and converting the jail operations to a corrections type facility, (all available for review at electbobwhitesheriff.com) will save the taxpayers thousands of dollars and ensure a better quality of life.
Why should voters choose you over other candidates?
I have had an exemplary record of service to the citizens of Carson City both professionally and personally. I was a member of the Carson City Babe Ruth Baseball Board from 1995 to 1999 and also coached Babe Ruth baseball.
I am a member of the Carson City Kiwanis and as such participated in many programs benefiting this community.
I am a board member of the Court Appointed Special Advocates which helps children and ensures their representation and safety.
I am the only candidate who has outlined programs he will use to make Carson City a safer place to live and I am the only candidate who has explained how he will be fiscally responsible leading the Sheriff's Office in the coming years.
I think the citizens would like somebody who has 30-plus years of experience being a cop and the administrative experience to run an agency.
SUPERVISOR WARD 1
KAREN ABOWD
Mailing Address: 3866 Westwood Drive
Carson City, NV 89703
Telephone: 775-882-6424
Cell: 775-232-8626
Office : 775-232-8626
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
I've lived in Carson City for the past 29 years; married for 39 years. I've been co-owner of Adele's restaurant in Carson City for over 15 years and have worked as an interior designer nearly two decades.
I have volunteered substantial time and effort to community improvement including working with the school district's Master Planning Community Relations Committee; vice chairperson for the Carson City Arts and Culture Commission; Beautification Action Committee chair for the Downtown Consortium.
I have served as an active mentor for St. Teresa's youth for the past 15 years.
I am president and founder of The Carson High Greenhouse Project, which will provide training and job skills for students and provide produce to those in need.
My business background, diversity of experience and years of volunteer work have prepared me to serve as supervisor and align resources to address the health, safety and welfare of Carson City
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
Carson City needs jobs. Currently, we have a chance to bootstrap ourselves out of this bad economy through the many jobs that are possible with the downtown Nugget Project. Success will come provided financing and public/private questions are reasonably answered. Can-do concepts like this one are worthy of serious consideration.
Carson City's educators must be supported at all levels. Higher achieving schools draw business and fuel economic revitalization. I will promote communication between the supervisors, the School District, and all public/private schools with the goal of working toward partnerships with businesses and Western Nevada College to expand opportunities for our kids.
I will guard our quality of life and foster conversation between residents and city government. I will continue outreach to the underserved, support events that enliven our city and work to remedy blight by reviewing codes/standards with city agencies.
Why should voters choose you over the other candidates?
Carson City's future matters to me not only as a business woman having to meet a payroll but as a grandparent with grandchildren growing up here. Determining priorities and using resources wisely with fiscal responsibility is my primary concern.
With a positive approach and high expectations I believe we can create our own opportunities. Our current economic structure is diminishing. It is time to reinvent ourselves.
Respectful of the hard work of our city's leaders past and present, I will forward those efforts with focus and urgency. We need to take care of our own and the time is now. Doing nothing is not an option.
ROB JOINER
Telephone: 883-4540
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
I retired in January 2010 with over 32 years in public service. I dedicated my professional career to improving communities in areas of city planning, cultural resource management, redevelopment and economic development.
A native of Reno, I received two undergraduate degrees in California and worked for two local governments there before returning to Nevada in 1984 to work for Carson City and to pursue a graduate degree.
After 18 years in Carson City, I maintained my residence here while working for the city of Sparks, first in long range planning and for the past six years developing their first full-service federal and state legislative programs.
Community involvement: Chairman of the Greater Nevada Credit Union Board of Directors; founding member of Silver Oak Home Owners Association Board of Directors; member of the Reno-Tahoe International Airport citizen advisory committee.
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
Maintaining public safety as a top priority in our community. Retain existing business and employment bases, recruit additional job-creating businesses, and generate a vibrant economy by working smarter and keeping government growth in check. Improve transparency of city government and embrace citizen involvement in decision making on major issues. Protect the city's existing revenues from state-initiated unfunded mandates and other threats, and work with elected state officials to restructure current revenue systems to benefit Carson City taxpayers.
Why should voters choose you over other candidates?
I am dedicated to living and serving my fellow citizens in Carson City. In this current economic downturn, Carson City needs a supervisor with a working knowledge of state and federal government and relationships with elected officials and key staff. Protection of essential city services and personnel will require broad knowledge of the current financial structure, as well as working with the state on their promise of a top-to-bottom fiscal restructuring. We need more local authority and jurisdiction over the city's resources and fiscal matters and I have the knowledge and experience with principal players in the state needed to craft these changes.
My vision for the future includes a revitalized city-wide economy and maintenance of our key quality of life features. This includes working closely with the property owners of underutilized and distressed commercial properties, such as the Ormsby House and the Kmart property.
SEAN LEHMANN
Mailing address: 415 W. Sophia St. #200
Carson City, NV 89703
Telephone: 775-884-1800
Cell: 775-450-5469
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
Dr. Sean Lehmann was born June 8, 1972 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He attended Cottonwood High School and graduated with high honors.
Sean then attended the University of Utah on a full-ride academic scholarship. He was also a member of the Utah track and cross country teams, earning two varsity letters. Following his experience in Utah, Sean moved to Iowa to attend the College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery at Des Moines University. He earned a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine and a master's degree in healthcare administration. He then completed a surgical residency program at Lakewood Regional Medical Center near Long Beach, Calif.
Sean married Michelle Storey of Shingle Springs, Calif. in 1999. Soon after opening his podiatry practice in the summer of 2000, Sean and his wife bought a home in Carson City. They have two sons, Parker and Bryce.
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
The economy will undoubtedly be the major topic of this election season. The preliminary plans are very intriguing. I believe this project would provide direct benefits to residents of Carson City and could provide a needed stimulus to our economy.
However, there are some elements that concern me. First and foremost is the huge amount of money Carson City will be required to invest in the project. Secondly, a private developer/investor has not been identified. Third, I was originally under the impression that the Nugget was donating land to the city. That is not true, the Nugget will be leasing the land to the city.
I support the vision behind the project, but every effort should be made to secure private financing before asking the city to make such a large investment. If this is not feasible, voters should have their say if additional tax revenue is needed.
Why should voters choose you over other candidates?
Carson City is currently at a critical crossroads that will provide both unprecedented challenges and opportunities. Since the 2008 election the economy has worsened and remains a major issue. I feel that as a small business owner I am in a great position to offer ideas and solutions on the Board of Supervisors.
In addition to being a physician, I also have a master's degree in administration that I believe would serve me well if elected.
Currently I am serving as a member of the Parks and Recreation Commission and have thoroughly enjoyed my time working with city staff and contributing ideas that I believe have been beneficial. I have continued to be active in various other community groups.
Above all, I offer an alternative to the same old faces at City Hall. I love this city and will work hard to make it better for your family and mine.
PAUL R. SAUCEDO
Mailing address: 1231 Chaparral Drive
Carson City, NV 89703
Telephone: 775-883-3626/883-7650
E-mail: psauce@sbcglobal.net
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
I have lived in Carson City 37 years and I believe residency helps to identify important issues within the community.
I currently sit on the Ron Wood Family Resource Board (13 years) and the Murphy/Bernardini Juvenile Detention Center Board (23 years).
I sat on the Board of Directors for Carson Tahoe Regional Medical Center for eight years during which time I was the board secretary for six years. While serving, we converted the hospital from a county hospital to a private not-for-profit 501c3.
I was a member of the committee to select the architect, engineering firms, construction companies, construction manager and major change orders. I also was the chairman for the Building Committee and member of the Ethics, Recruitment and By-laws committees.
This experience creates an understanding of open meeting law and most importantly how to work within a committee process to get things done.
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
Budgetary issues will be a huge problem for the new board when it is seated.
How to improve the tax base will have to be addressed. How do we attract new business, and how do we help existing businesses stay afloat?
The issue getting the most attention among the citizenry today is the Nugget project. I believe that there are still too many unanswered questions about this project, especially with the economy in the condition it is in. I believe the money would be better spent on a convention center/museum or a new or expanded community center. Libraries will always be a part of our society, but today's generation's information source is the Internet. The incubator and the learning center would be well placed at the Western Nevada College library.
Lastly, we need to develop and maintain our infrastructure to meet the needs of today and tomorrow.
Why should voters choose you over the other candidates?
All of these candidates are truly wonderful people who are trying to serve their community. I believe that the experience I have had of living here for so long and being involved in my community in everything from girls' softball, Little League, football and many other sports as a coach and on boards of governances, and the 35 years of serving my church in many different ministries, provides me with the experience and desire to serve. I have the time and strongly believe in community service and will always perform my "due diligence." I will always be informed.
GARY SCHULZ
Mailing address: 2045 Stephen Court
Carson City, NV 89703
Telephone: 884-3996 home
721-6417 cell
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
Married to Susan Doberneck, a pathologist at Carson Tahoe Hospital. Two daughters. Lauren graduated from Carson High School in 2009 and is a freshman at Penn. State University. Kate is a junior at Carson High School.
Graduated from the University of Arizona in 1981 with a degree in business administration. My most recent business interest involved bringing professional basketball to Northern Nevada as part of downtown Reno redevelopment. I was a founding owner and limited partner in the Reno Bighorns franchise.
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
The most important issue to be addressed is downtown Carson City redevelopment, the Nugget Project. My platform is to bring new jobs and new business to Carson City. I will work to expand and diversify our economic base. Small business growth and development will lead us out of this recession.
Why should voters choose you over the other candidates?
I am running as an outsider. I will bring a fresh set of eyes and an open mind to the issues presented to the board. I will review these issues from a business perspective and most importantly from a taxpayer's perspective. My goal is to develop a bright future for all of Carson City.
NORMAN SCOGGIN
Mailing Address: 2877 Pinewood Place
Carson City, NV 89703
Telephone: 775-882-8873
Cell: 287-4616
E-mail: Austin1863@charter.net
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
Fourteen years administrator Carson High School; 12 years Carson City School Board; two terms president Carson City School Board; one term president, Nevada Association of School Boards.
School boards deal with many of the same issues that city supervisors deal with: taxes, budgets, employee bargaining groups, construction, large land holdings, many large buildings, public hearings and input, zoning.
Carson City schools employ between 700 and 800 people and have a $100 million-plus budget. The district is one of the most financially secure political entities in the state of Nevada. This condition is a result of sound board policies and successfully working with employees to reduce spending during the past several years.
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
The most important issues are jobs, budget, public safety, city fees and policies, redevelopment, Nugget Project, airport and golf course. Can we further develop these to improve revenue for the city?
Why should voters choose you over the other candidates?
Carson City is my home. I am a lifelong resident of Carson City. My backgroud on the school board gives me proven experience working on a governing board and dealing with most of the issues that the city faces. Working on a political board means successfully dealing with not only the other board members, but all the professional staff and the public.
Shooting off one's mouth, making sound bites and headlines for the media accomplishes nothing unless one can sell his or her programs and policies to a majority of the board and the public.
I have this successful experience both on a local and state level, and hope to bring it to the Carson City government.
SUPERVISOR WARD 3
JOHN MCKENNA
Mailing address: 4 Charleston Court
Carson City, NV 89701-7676
Telephone: 775-883-2908
Fax: 775-883-9036
E-mail: johnmckenna4ward3@charter.net
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
Certified Public Accountant with 30-plus years experience successfully working with individuals, businesses, non-profits, and governments on financial and business matters. A resident of Carson City since 1987, I served as a school board member from January 1993 to December 2008 and have been a volunteer member of several citizens advisory committees including the Parks and Recreation Commission and the Debt Management Commission.
Currently, I volunteer on the Supervisors Audit Committee, charged with providing them input on effective fiscal and operational management. In addition to my business and volunteer work, I am a member of Rotary and work with the Tahoe Rim Trail Association.
My professional skills and government experience demonstrate the skills needed to be a successful supervisor in this time of economic change. My experience of meeting the needs of citizens also qualifies me for the position.
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
Dealing with the current economic downturn without making further cuts to public safety. Keeping the reduced size of city government as the economy improves. Restoring depleted financial reserves. Paying city debt early to reduce interest cost and reduce future taxes. Reducing city operating and energy cost. Maintaining, repairing and improving existing infrastructure. Reviewing the operations of the Redevelopment Authority to ensure that it is benefiting all of Carson City.
Business is attracted to a community that has an effective low-cost unobtrusive government. Educated young people will be attracted to this community because they are not paying for our past decisions and they will be able to shape the community that they want.
Why should voters choose you over other candidates?
Carson City currently has an unprecedented short-lived opportunity to reshape its government to meet the challenges of the future. As the economy improves we can create an efficient, cost effective, flexible organization that serves all citizens.
This will require leadership, knowledge, experience and ability. My background of successful leadership in local government and professional expertise in financial matters makes me uniquely qualified to help lead the effort to meet present and future needs. My record is one of active, positive problem solving. Leadership requires that problems be faced and citizen-based solutions be created.
Citizens and supervisors working together can face and solve the problems of Carson City.
MARK SATTLER
Mailing address: 1408 Fremont St.
Carson City, NV 89701
Telephone: 775-882-2895
Cell: 775-530-8990
E-mail: mnmcc@sbcglobal.net
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
The No. 1 responsibility of a supervisor is to represent the people of Carson City. To do that you must have strong communication skills. As a sales person I have developed these skills. I'm a people person! I will always be available if a constituent has questions, suggestions or a problem and ready to discuss any issues that the board and city are dealing with.
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
Jobs, jobs, jobs! The city cannot create any private sector jobs. As supervisor I will meet with any business person who is willing to sit down with me and discuss what the city can do to help simplify their existence so they can be more successful.
This is the public/private sector relationship we should be working on. We need to see that Carson City is the best community in the region to work with for the existing business people and the new ones we are trying to attract.
Why should voters choose you over the other candidates?
As supervisor I will look at the issues, break them down, present them to my constituents and listen to what they want, never forgetting I will work "with" the city and "for" the people of Carson City.
DAY WILLIAMS
Mailing Address: 1601 Fairview Drive
Suite C
Carson City, NV 89701-5860
Telephone: 775-885-8398
E-mail: daywilliams@electday.info
Website: http://electday.info
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
I get things done. I have practiced law in Carson City as a solo attorney since 1993. I've handled hundreds of cases ranging from business law to estate planning to civil rights to criminal law. I'm independent and I will tackle hard cases when I believe my client is right.
For example, in 2009 the power company planned to put unsightly high-voltage power poles along Saliman Road by Seeliger School and my own back yard. I was told that you cannot fight the power company. We formed a neighborhood coalition and successfully persuaded the power company to install the power lines underground.
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
I favor a smaller, limited government and fewer taxes, so that businesses can grow, hire more employees and contribute to their communities. We need more accountability in how our tax money is spent. Our country and Carson City itself were built on vision, individual initiative and private enterprise. We need to continue that tradition.
While we are in a recession, local government must continue to meet citizens' needs for basic services such as law enforcement, fire protection, road work, water and sewer, and parks and recreation. More taxes and a bigger government will not solve our problems. Give businesses a chance to flourish, and they will.
The local government can provide incentives to bring businesses to the area that will stay and contribute in the long run.
Why should voters choose you over the other candidates?
I bring analytical skills, legal knowledge and a conservative viewpoint to the table.
Supervisors need to ask more questions than they do, and to question the underlying assumptions of project proposals. The supervisors need a more unified vision of how to build Carson City for the future. For example, Carson City was third in Business Week's Top 10 as an emerging arts community. Our arts community is an asset we can build on as a tourist attraction.
Also, we have the resources to bring more light industry and "green" industries to the area.
CARSON SCHOOL TRUSTEE DISTRICT 1
JULIE BUSHNER
Mailing Address: 2020 Emily Court
Carson City, NV 89703
Telephone: 775-297-3629
Cell: 775-225-6133
Office: 775-225-6133
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
As a mother of two school-aged children in Carson City, I want to utilize my professional experience in finance, as well as the knowledge I've gained through community involvement. We want our kids to grow up, get good jobs and plant their roots in Carson City. Employers want a well-educated labor force if they are going to move to or stay in our community. By making Carson City a leader in learning, we can improve our quality of life now, and secure the future success of our children and our community.
I have more than 25 years of business finance at Fortune 500 companies; managed companies through tough financial times; led multicultural and global teams to develop and implement operational strategies; and been president and owner of small financial-consulting business.
I've been involved in the community as director of operations of Food for Thought, PTA treasurer at Bordewich-Bray Elementary School, and CASA volunteer to represent local youth
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
Become the schools of choice for Nevada - raise the bar of performance. Fiscally sound school district spending. Enhance communication between parents, educators, administrators and the school trustees.
Why should voters choose you over other candidates?
I have a vested interest in improving the education of my children and the community as a whole. In the current economic times, my fresh perspective and strong financial background provide guidance in making the critical decisions in moving us ahead of the curve.
THOMAS N. KEETON
Mailing Address: 2113 St. George Way
Carson City, NV 89703
Telephone Number: 775-841-3991
E-mail: tkkeeton@charter.net or visit
www.tomkeetonforschoolboard.com
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
I am a product of public education: grade school, junior and high schools, and my master's degree work at State University of Iowa.
My five years' experience as a math tutor at Fritsch Elementary and a senior project judge at Carson High will be invaluable as a school board trustee.
I spend about 10-12 hours a week, every week of the school year, working directly with classroom teachers and all levels of students.
Finally, I have a wealth of experience in management of programs and systems. But, most importantly, I've been working hands-on, directly with the students in the classroom, side-by-side with the teachers, for over five years.
What are the most important issues you would address if elected?
Our school system is far from broken; in fact, it's doing very well. We have met or exceeded the goals set for us. A great many statistics lump in all of Nevada's schools, which are substandard to other states. Graduation rates in the low 60 percent levels are decried as unacceptable. I agree. However, Carson City's graduation rate is 88 percent; and growing better. Not perfect, but virtually the best in Nevada and well above the national norm.
We must ground our students in the major skills of reading, writing, math and science. This needs to start at the lowest grade possible and continue until we feel every student - whether destined for Stanford or the local auto body shop - is well grounded in these most basic skills for success. This program must be sufficient for our college-bound students to immediately enter into the college programs without any remedial classes.
Why should the voters choose you over the other candidates?
The primary reason has to be my years of direct classroom experience tutoring math at Fritsch Elementary, and the years of judging the senior projects at Carson High School. I have worked with virtually every type of student; some who struggled and some who were obviously very quick. One thing tells me I must be doing something right. Not one parent has ever asked that their child be removed from my class; and every parent I meet has nothing but compliments for the improvement they can see directly.
Add to this my management experience, including observation of labor negotiations in many industries, organizing large, complex projects, and bringing disparate departmental issued to an agreement, and I think I'm the best all-around candidate.
Finally, eight years on the Carson City Parks & Recreation Commission - including two as the chairman - has proven I can function effectively on a board.
ROBERT PRATER
Mailing address: 539 Oxford Court
Carson City, NV 89703
Telephone: 775-888-2050
E-mail: robert_prater@sbcglobal.net
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
Retired from the US Navy, retired from federal civil service. Was in a leadership position for most of my career. Taught numerous technical courses to military and civilian personnel. Analyzed and corrected problems on military aircraft and weapons systems.
I have been working with the school district and volunteers on career and technical education, arts studies and the school master plan.
For the last three years I have been a judge of senior projects at the high school.
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected:
Promote career and technical education in the high school. Promote the arts in all schools. I would also like to see a performing arts theater at Carson High.
Why should voters choose you over the other candidates?
My opponents are all highly qualified, but with my background in education and my knowledge of the problems facing the district, I feel that I am better qualified.
RON SWIRCZEK
Address: 1844 Radcliff Dr.
Carson City, NV 89703
Telephone: 775-883-5263
E-mail: rcswirczek@pyramid.net
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
A degree in public administration, University of Nevada, Reno; B.A. degree, sociology, accounting minor, University of California.
40 years in Carson City; wife Marilee (college instructor); five children (including elementary school teacher); seven grandchildren
Carson City School District involvement, 2009-present: Participant, Strategic Advisory Committee; member, School District Master Plan Committee, Community Relations, and Education Sub-Committees
Retired from State of Nevada; deputy legislative auditor, Legislative Counsel Bureau; general manager, Office of State Controller; supervisor, Local Government Finance; administrator, Division of Industrial Relations; deputy director, DETR; workforce education and job training programs.
Former owner, Carson Bike and Ski Shop.
Carson City Board of Supervisors (1987-1991); mayor pro-tem; liaison, Carson City School District; member, Finance and Legislative Committees; Carson Water Sub-Conservancy District.
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
School trustees have not established a vision for education. Without a comprehensive, forward-looking, up-to-date model, students will continue to fall behind or drop out.
The current structure and learning environment does not provide equal opportunities for all students to realize the power of education. Without comprehensive early childhood education, extra help for any student who needs or wants it, meaningful remedial and gifted programs, and advanced academic and technical education, students cannot achieve their potential.
We have not fully used the partnering potential within our community to mentor all students. Imagine the possibilities if each of us believed that we had a stake in every child's education.
We have not effectively included the knowledge and experience of teachers in educational and curriculum decisions; they can help determine what to cut, what to keep, and how best to teach our children.
Why should voters choose you over other candidates?
I believe all students deserve to graduate from high school with the knowledge, skills and abilities to begin a career; complete post-secondary education; compete and contribute in a changing world; enjoy lifelong learning; and have hope for their futures.
I can offer real solutions for the delivery of pre-K through 12 educational programs through my experience with workforce education and job training programs. I will use my decades of budget planning and analysis to protect the classroom from harmful cuts by advocating for a vision that meets priorities and puts students first.
I reject the negative thinking that declining enrollment and, consequently, declining revenues are inevitable. Instead, we should take this opportunity to move from a 19th century educational model to a 21st century one.
CARSON CITY SCHOOL TRUSTEE DISTRICT 6
PAUL R. BRUGGER
Mailing Address: 206 Albany Ave
Carson City, NV 89703-4511
Telephone: 775-882-9284 Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
I have resided in Northern Nevada since 1968. All seven of my children and four grandchildren have been in Carson City schools. I am familiar with many of the local schools; my kids and grandkids have attended nine of them. I am also familiar with the values and needs of this community. Having many years of experience in public service, private industry, and community service organizations, with a track record of building productive relationships and leading groups in both technical and non-technical endeavors, I wish to apply those capabilities to the service of the school district.
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
I would concentrate on finding ways to use existing resources to the best benefit of the youth. Rather than looking for ways to cut expenses, I would like to take the more positive approach of looking for ways to use available funds to best serve the needs of students. Having established the first-ever zero-based budget for a major state agency, and having managed several multimillion-dollar projects for both private industry and local government, I would like to apply those skills to the challenges facing local schools.
I would like to address the needs of under-achieving students without dragging down average and exceptional students in the process. Zero drop-out is my goal. One way of achieving that is to offer programs better suited to the needs of those who are at risk.
Why should voters choose you over the other candidates?
I am qualified to address the needs of the school district, and very interested in seeking input from parents and educators as to the issues needing to be addressed in our community's schools.
RANDY CARLSON
Mailing Address: 4081 Kings Canyon Road
Carson City, NV 89703
Telephone: 775-250-8130
E-mail: rcarlson@carsoncityschools.com
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
Our schools and our community are facing challenging economic times. We need to deliver the superior education our students will require in a very competitive economy. And, we have to do it with less money.
I have lived in Carson City 26 years, raised a daughter here and appreciate how important quality education is for our children and our community. I have 30 years experience in the space, medical and alternative-energy industries, leading engineers and scientists tackling difficult problems. I know how to help people get things done.
Last December I joined the school board, by appointment, to shape a strategy and a vision that will help us succeed for our students and our community. I want to continue, so I'm now running for District 6 School Board Trustee.
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
There are three important issues facing our school system. To successfully educate our students we must address all of them.
1. Finances. We have already made large cuts to our school budget and worse is to come during the next biennium. We must not sacrifice our core mission of preparing our students.
2. Student and parent involvement. To deliver more and better education with limited classroom resources, students will have to do more of the skill-and-drill as homework. This won't work unless we get our students and parents committed to education.
3. Technology. The world is more technology and information centered than it was even 10 years ago. We need more computer based instruction, distance education, electronic collaboration, science and technology in our schools. This is more of a challenge for teachers than students, but will allow us to deliver more education and better education with less money.
Why should voters choose you over other candidates?
The board sets direction, policy and objectives for our schools. We don't run our schools. We don't teach our students.
To get things done, we must get our administrators, our teachers and our staff to carry out the mission. Nice education ideas or strong education ideology by themselves won't meet our challenges or address our issues.
Our educators, our students, and our parents are the ones who will make Carson City schools successful. I understand that all a school board member can do is lead. I understand that better than my opponents do.
DEONNE E. CONTINE
Mailing Address: 781 Crain St.
Carson City, NV 89703
Telephone: Cell 775-881-8314
office 775-684-1218
E-mail: deonne2000@yahoo.com
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
I was born and raised in Nevada. When I was growing up, education was not an important part of my family life. As I matured I realized that many opportunities in life are not available without an education. When I was 25 I left my full-time job and put myself through college. It took me five years but I eventually graduated from University of California, Berkeley in 1999. After that, I entered law school.
Now, married with a young son, I have a wonderful career as a deputy attorney general.
Being on the school board would not be just a job for me - I will be involved in this district for many years regardless if I am elected. I think every day about providing my own child with the best education possible. We need a school board member who thinks that way about every child in Carson City.
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
First, we have a great group of parents who are dedicated and involved in their child's education. We need to do more to strengthen the partnership between teachers and parents and to support teachers in fulfilling the needs of all the children. For our schools and children to succeed, every parent needs to feel they have a voice in their child's education.
Second, there is the issue of unengaged parents, for whom the educational system seems intimidating, unwelcoming or simply overwhelming. Research now shows the more parental involvement, the greater the student achievement and success of the school. Accordingly, we need to be creative about how we draw more parents into what is going on at school.
As a school board member, I would commit myself to increasing parental participation and involvement. I would work to build and strengthen the communication between the district, schools and the community.
Why should voters choose you over the other candidates?
I am the only candidate in this race with a child in this district, and my family will face the challenges of education in the 21st century along with all the other parents in Carson City. In my life, the benefit of education exceeded my expectations. All the success I have achieved today is because of a desire to learn. Because of my background and struggle with education, and my ultimate success, I believe in the power of a good educational system and the effect it can have on people's lives. This is not just a job for me. Like many people in our community, my own child's future depends on the work we do. I have the experience, desire and commitment to be an effective and active board member.
BARBARA J. MYERS
Mailing Address: 4552 Hillview Drive
Carson City, NV 89701
Telephone: 775-882-8817
E-mail: bjmyers49@aol.com
Explain your background and how this qualifies you for the position you are seeking.
I have been elected five times to public education boards - three terms on local board of education and two terms on the Nevada State Board of Education/Career and Technical Education Board. I have served a total of 20 years in those elected positions. I have been teaching in the public school system (kindergarten-community college) for 38 years.
I think this makes my background unique and shows voters that I'm committed to public education and the students we serve.
I believe that every child should be provided with an education that pushes them to meet their potential so that they become productive, involved citizens. I believe that every teacher has high expectations for each and every student.
What are the most important issues that you would address if elected?
The school district is moving forward with a tax-continuation bond to assure adequate revenue resources for long-term facility needs. The Board of Trustees must be able to help assure that the bond question passes and then follow through with the master plan that has been put in place with the help of many community members.
One of the most obvious issues that all boards of education in Nevada are facing is the decreased funding available to public schools. Carson City School District must continue to provide all children with the best education possible while living within a budget. This means tough decisions have to be made when it comes to cuts. I'm a firm believer that the cuts must be made farthest away from the classroom. I believe that taxpayers deserve to know that every tax dollar is being used in the most effective way.
Why should voters choose you over other candidates?
The CCSD Board of Trustees has lost several of its long-term members. It becomes critical that members coming on to the Board be able to "hit the ground running." I know the issues. I understand how Nevada funds education. I have experience with Nevada's legislative process and I know many members of the Assembly and Senate. The other candidates for District 6 do not have the depth of experience that I bring to the table that will allow me to understand policy decisions that need to be made and move forward without having a steep learning curve.