2 • Voter 411 2012 paducahsun - Amazon Web...

2 • Voter 411 2012 paducahsun.com

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Voter 411 is The Paducah Sun’s intro-duction to the Paducah City Commission candidates for mayor and city commis-sioner. Each candidate was presented with fi ve questions, in which they were asked to answer each question in 50 words or less. All but the following candi-dates returned answers to the Sun:

Brandon Hall

Charles RingstaffShirley Trail LanierEric YoungbloodSome candidate answers ran longer

than 50 words. These answers were edited for length in order to ensure that candidates had equal opportunity to share their messages. The primary elec-tion is Tuesday.

Mayoral Candidates Robert Coleman ................3 Doug Harnice ....................3 Gayle Kaler .......................3 Charles Ringstaff ..............3

City Commissioner Candidates Richard Abraham ..............8 Robert Cherry ...................5 Jeanie Embry ....................8 Mark Foglesong ..............13 Carol Gault .....................12 David Guess ...................15 Brandon Hall ...................15 Raynarldo Henderson ......18 Shelley Keeling Sr. ..........17 Shirley Trail Lanier .............7 Allan Rhodes ..................10 Frank Schuler ....................7 Brian Shemwell .................5 Peter Steyn .....................10 Michele Thomas ...............6 Lennis Thompson .............6 Sandra Wilson ................15 Rodney Worak .................16 Eric Youngblood ..............15

paducahsun.com Voter 411 2012 • 3

Mayoral Candidates

Doug Harnice, a retired WPSD-TV chief photographer, now serves as McCracken County deputy judge-executive. He is originally from Livingston County and has also worked with the state highway administration, served six years in the Army and has been married to his wife for 42 years.

1. Why are you running for mayor?I’m a fi scal conservative, and it’s time

for the city to cut the spending! I want to use my local government experience and leadership skills to make that happen.

2. What is your position on the city-county merger?

I believe the merger question should be put on the November ballot to allow the citizens of Paducah and McCracken County to make that decision.

3. How will you handle the differing opinions between the city and county: funding the convention center, pauper burial, soccer fi eld locations, annexation and others?

When I become mayor, all funding deci-sions will be on the table for discussion. There is nothing wrong with different opinions. That is called democracy!

4. What are the top three items you will address if elected? Please provide some detail on one of them.

A. Spending. We must get a handle on the budget, be transparent and ac-countable. Specifi cally, I’d like to see a line-by-line itemized cost for proposed major projects and an explanation of where the money will come from.

B. Streamlining the Inspection Depart-ment.

C. Working to bring more good jobs to the area.

5. What is the top project facing the city? Why?

No doubt, working with USEC and other agencies to keep the jobs in our area, while we look for other areas of development for Paducah and McCracken County. These jobs are the fl agship jobs. Their loss will be dif-fi cult to replace.

Doug Harnice

Harnice

Robert Coleman is a former city commis-sioner, serving for 31 years from 1974 to 2008. He is still today the longest running elected offi cial the city has ever had. He is also a retired postal service employee, having spent 40 years on the job. He is married with one son and one grandson.

1. Why are you running for mayor?I am the most experienced candidate

to seek the position of mayor. I have sup-ported economic development, the river industry, the largest retail development in the history of our city. Strong supporter for the quilter’s organization.

2. What is your position on city-county merger?

I support the city/county merger. It is the number one action to be taken by a city/county to promote economic and retail development.

3. How will you handle the differing opin-ions between the city and county: funding the convention center, pauper burial, soc-cer fi eld locations, annexation and others?

These items affect the poor citizens except soccer fi elds, annexation and others. They must be handled in a fair manner that benefi ts the city.


Economic devel-opment; industrial development; river industry; and quilter’s industry. Economic development serves as the top priority among these four.


The top project facing the city is the possible loss of USEC, our number one employer in terms of wages.

Robert Coleman

Coleman

Gayle Kaler is in her third term on the Paducah City Commission, serving currently as the mayor pro tem, which signifi es she received the highest number of commis-sioner votes in the 2010 election. She has worked as a hairdresser since she was 18, starting her fi rst business when she was 23. She is married with one daughter and one granddaughter.

1. Why are you running for mayor?Paducah is a city with the potential to

grow and provide opportunities for its citi-zens and our children. I want to be part of achieving that potential and make Paducah a better, safer place. I’m going to be a mayor willing to listen, debate the issues and seek proactive solutions.


I believe it’s an option we should explore and allow residents to choose; that’s why I voted in favor of forming the merger com-mittee. If merged, we would be the third largest community in the state. I believe that will make the merged city-county more attractive for business development.

3. How will you handle the differing opin-ions between the city and county: funding the convention center, pauper burial, soccer fi eld locations, annexation and others?

I’ve been a business owner for 42 years. I know how to look for the common benefi t

when there’s confl ict. The fi rst step is open communication and transparency, then en-gaging the county as a partner in seeking solutions that recognize the needs of both the county and the city.


We need to focus on business develop-ment by removing barriers to existing and new business. We need to complete our negotiations for a privately owned hotel adjacent to the convention center to secure its viability. Paducah also needs to continue to sup-port neighborhood revitalization with home ownership and affordable housing.


Our primary focus needs to be on fi scal responsibility. The city enjoys a AA-bond rating and a debt ratio in line with other cities our size. We have to maintain our balanced budget and prioritize our long-term projects to ensure we do not overreach our funding capabilities.

Gayle Kaler

Kaler

Ringstaff

Charles Ringstaff, a 27-year-old political newcomer, is the youngest candidate to ever run for city mayor. A Paducah native, Ringstaff has a degree in political science with concentration in public policy from the University of Louisville. He also served as an intern in the House of Representatives at the state capitol and as a HAZMAT auditor at UPS before taking on his current job, a part-time associate at Gander Mountain in Paducah.

Charles Ringstaff

2011 Facts

531 Full Time Jobs

$748,504 Local Tax Revenue

$2,013,218State Tax Revenue

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Market House TheatreCarson Center

Maiden Alley CinemaNational Quilt

MuseumPaducah Symphony

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Greater PaducahArts & Culture Organizations

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City Commissioner Candidates

for Paducah City

CommissionerPAID FOR BY CAROL GAULT

Brian Shemwell, a Marion native, moved to Paducah a couple of years ago. He works as marketing director of Rotech Healthcare, known locally as Holland Medical Equipment. He gradu-ated from Murray State University with a bachelor’s degree in public relations. Shemwell is engaged and expecting his fi rst child, a daughter, in June.

1. Why are you running for City Com-mission?

Essentially, a small group of people make decisions for the entire city. I want to be one of those individuals. I want to be involved in the decision making that shapes our town. I want to make deci-sions that make Paducah a better place to live for generations to come.

2. What is your position on the city/county merger?

If the current proposal is a blueprint for a smarter, more effective and effi cient form of government, then I have no choice other than to offer it my fullest support and attention. I support the merger 100 percent.

3. How will you handle the differing opinions between the city and county?

Differing opinions can only be handled with respect and maturity. But our opin-ions must not get in the way of moving forward. Although I feel that it is healthy

that we remain strong in our convictions, I fi nd it equally important that we all need to be open to compromise.

4. What are the top three items you will address if elected?

a. The fi nancial sta-bility and Paducah’s health are vital and should be a top pri-ority for any elected offi cial.

b. Support contin-ued development of downtown and the riverfront.

c. Economic devel-opment, attracting potential employers, and retaining exist-ing employers (such as USEC), is para-mount. This is another reason the city/county merger deserves my support.


So many issues and projects currently need attention; something tells me they always will. But if I named one, it is the looming possibility of USEC closing its operations. The impact on the local economy would be catastrophic. We need to exhaust all efforts to prevent what we can.

Brian Shemwell

Shemwell

Robert Cherry, a 1967 Paducah Tilgh-man High School graduate, owns Adven-ture Marine in Paducah. He also earned a bachelor’s degree from Murray State University in communications manage-ment and attended several other colleges as well. Cherry has also traveled the world several times, visiting places such as Europe, Russia, South America, China and Australia.

1. Why are you running for City Commis-sion?

Return common sense to spending in the city of Paducah. I want the voice of the people heard, which they’re not taking into account the people’s wishes before making a decision on things like the soc-cer fi eld, the blunder dome, the new boat ramp or the convention center.


I’m opposed to it at this time because Paducah needs to get its house in order before we go spread it to the county. You can’t expect the county to fi x the city’s problems. The city needs to fi x those, especially relating to the inspection and planning departments.


I’ve been able to work with Judge Newberry. I think we have open forums so everybody knows what’s going on, no secret agendas and everything will work out just fi ne.


Boat dock, marina and new ramps put in, that’s num-ber one. Number two, spend more money to improve the streets and infra-structure of the city. Number three, spend the city taxpayers’ money inside the city limits of Paducah. I want Paducah out of the real estate busi-ness as number four.


The top project should be paying off our incredible debt because that is an item that will make taxes increase if we don’t take care of it. We can’t afford to make taxes increase. We need to pay off our reckless spending. The last 20 years have been reckless spending.

Robert Cherry

Cherry

Paid for by David Guess Campaign John Campbell Treasurer

VOTE FOR

DAVID GUESSPaducah City Commissioner 2012Let me be your voice in city hall once again.Please include me in your four choices for City Commissioner!

STEP FORWARD TO VOTE FOR ME TO BECOME YOUR CITY HALL VOICE AGAIN IN MAY 2012 & BE ASSURED I HAVE

THE VISION & COMMITMENT TO PADUCAH & YOUR BEST

INTERESTS IN MIND!

www.facebook.com/VoteDavidGuessforPaducah • [email protected] • 270-210-6281As Paducah residents, our best days are yet to come! Thank you for your vote of confi dence.

VOTE FOR EXPERIENCEAs a business owner and a previous City Commissioner, I am experienced to work with residents, local businesses & the other commission members. Humbly, I ask for your vote to return to the position of leadership as a Paducah Commissioner and I will use my experience, energy & determination to successfully make an impact in Paducah. I promise to work to provide leadership & direction for the city’s current services & for its future.

It is vital to assure the present and future fi nancial integrity of Paducah. Economic growth is essential. I have always felt that Paducah has so much growth potential and little used resources.. As a single dad of Josh-19 & Shannon-17, I have a personal vested interest in unleashing that potential so that my kids will want to stay here in Paducah just as I have!

• Owner of David Guess Heating, Air and Refrigeration• Member of First Baptist Church - previous Sunday School Teacher/Previous Youth Leader• Proud Paducah resident for 47 years.• Owner of Downtown Historic District Properties that I have renovated to improve our city• Four years experience as your City Commissioner 2003-2007 - Voted against Occupational Tax increase - Voted against Sunday liquor sales - Exhibited fi nancial responsibility when I voted against $40,000 yearly raise for city directors - Favor small business & local citizens rights by voting against the smoking ban and I am a non-smoker! - Voted for every economic incentive that was placed before us! - Voted for the Riverfront, Lowertown Art District and Fountain Ave revitalizations and will continue to vote for revitalization/sustainability for continued growth of our city.


Lennis Thompson works as the region-al controller/chief accounting offi cer at Lourdes hospital. A Paducah native, he graduated from the Paducah city school system and then Murray State University with a degree in marketing/business accounting. He has been married for 32 years and has two adult children and one granddaughter.


Effectively managing taxpayers’ money by controlling spending, reducing debt, and stabilizing and growing the local economy are what I intend to bring to the offi ce. I have 32 years of accounting and business management experience that will serve me well in meeting this goal. See website for more: www.lennis-forpaducah.com


After attending two education ses-sions, unanswered questions remain. I would be for the merger only if it’s posi-tive economic impact and evidence of improved value/benefi ts to the citizens could be proven. Without that proof, as the proposal is currently written, I am not in favor.

3. How will you handle the differ-ing opinions between the city and the county?

Regardless of the issue, there must be open communication with no hidden

agendas. Business-like negotiations must be held and accountability for deci-sions should be a priority. Not all deci-sions will be popular with everyone, but I can promise all votes I cast can and will be explained.

4. What are the top 3 items you will ad-dress if elected? Provide detail on one.

Finances, jobs, and infrastructure. Ap-proximately 64% of Paducah’s revenue is created from oc-cupational license fees; therefore, we must stabilize by supporting existing businesses and eliminating barriers for new businesses. Since 2007, revenue has decreased by 1%; expenses have increased by 13% and debt by 37%. We cannot outspend our income.


Living wage jobs should be the com-mission’s top project to afford our citi-zens the opportunity to manage needs and increase their quality of life. Recruit-ment and retention of higher paying jobs is essential. We must be willing to work with other governments to recruit region-ally, as well as within city limits.

Lennis Thompson

Thompson

Michele Thomas is best known as an advocate for the city’s homeless popula-tion. She worked in sales in the insurance industry for 12 years prior to becoming involved with the homeless. She obtained her associate degree in accounting from Paducah Community College, and her bachelor’s degree in business manage-ment from Mid-Continent University.


In December, when the city evicted the residents of Tent City from the only place they had to call home, several people in the community contacted me and asked me to consider running for commissioner as they felt average income, low income, and poverty level residents are not repre-sented fairly.


A merger has potential to be a good thing. However, from the town hall meet-ing I attended, I’m not in favor of the proposed merger at this time. I don’t feel it adequately addressed the ques-tions taxpayers have nor any evidence was given on how the merger is best for taxpayers.


These issues boil down to funding.

Until I have access to see where taxpayer money is currently going, it’s diffi cult to predict exactly how to handle them. How-ever, it is evident by the record number of candidates running for these positions that our residents are fed up with mis-handled monies.


Some hot buttons are the convention center, the proposed merger, and quilt show funding. If we are spending more on bringing the quilt show in than we are benefi ting from it, the funding must stop, or be decreased to an amount that still entices the event to be here.


Rebuilding trust and incorporating transparency in spending. Every resident needs to know and feel they are part of the community and their needs and con-cerns are important. We need to feel we are striving for the same purpose and that is to make life easier and as enjoyable as possible.

Michele Thomas

Thomas


Frank Schuler has resided in Paducah since 1981 and works currently as a paralegal specialist at Housman and Associates in Paducah. An Indiana native, he earned a bachelor’s degree in sociol-ogy from Indiana University and retired from the Social Security Administration’s Offi ce of Disability Adjudication & Review in 2001.


I believe we can no longer accept the attitude among some that it matters not whether anyone lives in the city so long as folks continue to work and pay taxes here. If that attitude prevails, Paducah will cease to remain a viable city, and so as commissioner, I would hope to help to take steps to make Paducah an inviting community in which businesses will want to grow/locate.


I am in favor of putting the city/county merger initiative on the ballot. There appears to be positives for approving the merger, such as possibly making Paducah eligible for more federal/state grants, perhaps the politicians in Frankfort might “rediscover” Paducah/McCracken County if we become the third largest city in Kentucky.

3. How will you handle the differing opin-ions between the city and county: fund-ing the convention center, pauper burial,

soccer fi eld locations, annexation and others?

It too often seems that city and county offi cials communicate only by “sound bites.” The city/county should appoint liaisons who would talk regularly to one another so that all parties are on “the same page” or at least are communicat-ing their differences before airing them in public forums.


Attracting a down-town motel; comple-tion of the riverfront project; reviewing some of the ques-tionable expenditures of scarce taxpayer dollars. I believe a downtown hotel and the Riverfront project are essential to any growth that we hope to realize in the future.


Completing the Greenway Trail. This proj-ect has proceeded at “fi ts and starts” for too long. Its popularity amongst the folks of Paducah is all too obvious. It is nothing short of shameful that completion of what could be the “crowning jewel” of our park system has languished for so long.

Frank Schuler

Schuler

3000 BroadwayPaducah, KY 42001

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Shirley Trail Lanier is a Metropolis, Ill., native and resident of Lower Town. She is retired from the United States Enrichment Corporation and has served as an independent contractor, virtual assistant in international marketing, research analyst/consultant, chaplain, educator at Paducah City Schools, event specialist, Kentucky mobile notary/paralegal. Trail Lanier ran for commission two years ago, earning the fi fth highest number of votes.

Shirley Trail Lanier

Lanier

ElectElectDoug

for

MayorMayorVisit my website:Visit my website:

www.harniceformayor.comwww.harniceformayor.com

HARNICEHARNICE

“HARNICE” THE SPENDING!“HARNICE” THE SPENDING!PAID FOR BY DOUG HARNICE



Jeanie Embry, a network engineer at Computer Services Inc., graduated from Reidland High School and has some college credit hours. She has three adult children, one son from another mother, one grandson and serves as a co-guard-ian of a brother who is mentally ill.


I am running for city commissioner to help grow our local economy and to ad-vance opportunities for all the citizens of Paducah. I am passionate about improv-ing the standard of living in our commu-nity and making Paducah a better place to live, work, play and raise a family.


I support the decision of voters in Paducah/ McCracken County. There will always be trade-offs to be made in governance. The trick is to understand trade-offs, activate community participa-tion, and take steps necessary to avoid potential problems with any model our city and region would operate in.


Great minds do not always think alike when working together to achieve com-mon goals. Successful interpersonal rela-

tionships come with being able to identify needs, being open to new information and be willing to compromise. When re-solving confl icts, I would look for common ground then develop plans around that concept.


Paducah is a “Field of Dreams;” however, we have lost popula-tion, our economy is fl at, and a large number of folks live in poverty. People will come, stay, survive, and thrive in Paducah if we can build a solid foundation with diverse job opportu-nities in our “Field of Dreams.”


Upgrading our riverport capacity should be top project in the city. Paducah has potential to become a major economic hub for commerce if we can accommo-date European and Asian trade ships that are expected to traverse the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway post completion of the Panama Canal project; jobs, jobs, JOBS!!!

Jeanie Embry

Embry

Commissioner Richard Abraham, who was fi rst elected in 2000 and then again in 2008 and 2010, is seeking a fourth term on the City Commission. Abraham works as a certifi ed life coach, personal trainer and circuit trainer. A Paducah native, he graduated from Paducah Tilgh-man High School. He is married with two daughters and one grandson.


The Democratic process is working when you have residents from within a community trusting their neighbor enough to elect them to oversee their local government. This is a job I will be honored to continue to perform.


The decision about merging city and county should be approached with an open mind. As elected offi cials it will be our responsibility to listen to the citizens, study all the data, and if the vote favors merger, it will be our task to make it work for our community’s betterment.


The CCC received negative press as of late regarding some internal issues. The board is actively working to re-establish

itself as trustworthy and on point. I believe the city and the county should equally support the CCC as both benefi t from the CCC working to its full potential.


a. Neighborhood revitalizationb. Downtown hotelc. Entre Paducah is

dedicated to helping all new businesses develop their assets, making sure they receive encourage-ment and support in realizing their full economic impact. Small businesses drive the U.S. economy by providing jobs for over half of the nation’s private work force.


Getting a hotel downtown that will enhance our city. We need a hotel with over 250 rooms so we will be considered for the greatest number of conventions. A downtown hotel will complement the ambiance of our river city and will have a tremendous positive impact on city and county businesses.

Richard Abraham

Abraham


Peter Steyn is a retired business consultant from South Africa. He moved to the United States 30 years ago and has been in Paducah since 2007. He graduated from Middle Tennessee State University and spends time fi xing up a house in the city and substitute teach-ing.

1. Why are you running for City Com-mission

According to Chamber of Commerce provided data, McCracken County, includ-ing Paducah, grew by 51 people from 2000-2010. We must provide careers and business opportunities to keep young people, our greatest asset, from leaving. Working with city and county leaders, and my business development background, we can recruit international businesses.


I fi nd the fi nal draft of the charter gov-ernment somewhat one-sided. It seems the county loses about a million dollars in revenue when USEC closes. Also, with the planned precincts, Paducah on one side of I-24 would be poorly represented. If the referendum passes, we need to monitor the situation.


Issues between city and county only

arise when budgets are tight. When rev-enues shrink and services are reduced or shut down, we have to look at new revenue streams (without raising taxes) to alleviate this bickering between our local governments.


Local governments are experiencing shrinking revenues. We have to fi nd revenue streams, without raising taxes. Business downtown is facing major chal-lenges. We need in-novative ideas, such as enticing traffi c off I-24 to downtown. Finally, just as important, a free down-town medical clinic jointly sponsored by Medicaid, Lourdes and Western Baptist.


I think a downtown hotel would be on the minds of commissioners. We need to implement the city master plan, which includes the new thoroughfare from Exit 4 to downtown. This would bolster busi-ness down Park Avenue and Lower Town. Most of these projects qualify for federal and commonwealth grants.

Peter Steyn

Steyn

Allan Rhodes is a former car dealer-ship owner and currently owns both Etcetera Coffee locations in Paducah. He spent 26 years in the family car business, eventually selling the manage-ment group and store in 1998. Rhodes graduated from Southern Methodist Uni-versity in Dallas, Texas, and also spent 10 years as a teacher’s aide at Paducah Tilghman High School.


I think Steve Jobs may have said it best. “We try to use our talents to show appreciation to all the contributions that came before us, and to add something to that fl ow.” I believe I can add some-thing to that city commission fl ow.


I do not think the proposed merger is the solution for city/county. Paducah is already a micropolitan statistical area with a census population of 98,000. Though the governmental framework is laid out completely, the outcomes are not. Effi ciencies are always promised through merger, but are they deliverable?

3. How will you handle the differing opinions between the city and coun-ty: funding the convention center, pauper burial, soccer fi eld locations, annexation and others?

I feel that a respectful understand-ing between the city and county is the bedrock of cooperative decision making.

Personally I’m for continuing the Conven-tion Center funding, pauper burial should be funded in accordance with other second-class cities, and I would defund the purposed soccer complex.


Static to declining population growth. Budget discipline; we can’t have everything we want. Revise the riverfront development plan, using the McCon-nell federal grant to fi rst complete a riverfront park area on the Executive Inn site. Future federal dollars can build a marina, transit boat dock and bump-out in the river.

5.What is the top project facing the city? Why?

Population growth is Paducah’s chal-lenge. We must continue to purposefully invest our presently static revenue to attract a younger, upwardly motivated population who will be our future. By supporting vibrant arts and culture and higher education, along with its strategic location, Paducah’s toolbox is overfl ow-ing with opportunity for growth.

Allan Rhodes

Rhodes

Paid By Frank Schuler


Commissioner Carol Gault, who was fi rst elected in 2008, is a former busi-ness owner and most recently served as Program Manager of Paducah Main Street. A Mayfi eld native, she graduated from Mayfi eld High School and earned a political science degree from Murray State University.


Paducah deserves to be the best. We cannot settle. We need to continue to progress, and I want to be part of that. I feel I have the skill set to do this job through my experience as a business owner and in downtown development combined with my education.


A charter county government that elimi-nates duplications, creates cost effi cien-cies and provides quality services would be a benefi t. However, more work may need to be done to prove these outcomes. The more information provided helps constituents make informed decisions and ultimately it should be the people’s decision.


With such challenges, research can be one’s best weapon. Through looking to past ordinances, reviewing master plans and talking with constituents we often

learn what we are facing. Such history can help an elected body make tough deci-sions. Everything is interrelated and rela-tive to budget, priorities and partnerships. Communication is key with all parties involved.


Business/Customer relations, continuing to grow the arts and tourism, and job cre-ation and retention. To recruit and retain employers, an edu-cated work force with a pro-business environment must be ever present. It is also imperative to continue programs encouraging tourism and growth in the arts. Both are a very valuable eco-nomic engine often overlooked.


The commission’s biggest priority is maintaining a balanced budget and continuing with the quality services our citizens expect. A safe, clean community is the basis for everything from neighbor-hood revitalization to business recruit-ment. It’s also important to not only recruit jobs but work to retain the jobs we currently have.

Carol Gault

Gault


Mark Foglesong has owned Atlas Roof-ing Contractors in Paducah for nearly three decades. Within that time, he has also owned and operated other busi-nesses. He has been married for 27 years, has two adult children and two granddaughters.


I am running for commissioner be-cause I would like to make Paducah as fi nancially secure as possible. When fi nances are under control we will be able to meet the needs of the busi-nesses and citizens. It also puts us in a stronger negotiating position for current and future commerce opportunities.


I cannot agree with the merger until I have been shown that it is benefi cial to both city and county. McCracken County and the city of Paducah may co-exist in harmony now but assets and liabilities or county freedoms and city amenities should be addressed proactively rather than retroactively.


We will have to sit down on each issue and acknowledge on each other’s obliga-

tions. Every situation is different and each one must be handled individually. If one asks for assistance of the other then we should sit down and try to fi gure out the best option for the people.


Local spending, business friendly environment, and debt reduction. Neighborhood revitalizations and continued support of the arts lead the quality of life issues. Paducah is a great place to live and work but we must be united in these efforts in order for them to succeed.


Debt reduction is crucial. I understand the need for carefully planned, prudent spending. We must be wiser with our spending. We cannot chase what may be out there in times of fi scal restraint; we must focus on projects that have high expectation of results and provide for and protect our citizens.

Mark Foglesong

Foglesong

[email protected]

270-366-5872W. Neel Carroll, Treasurer

Paid for by the Campaign to electJeanie Embry

for Paducah City Commissioner.

ELECT JEANIE

PADUCAH CITY COMMISSIONER

“I want to raise the standard ofliving in Paducah and with your help we

can make our community a better place to live, work, play, and raise a family.”

PROTECT & DIVERSIFY JOBS ELIMINATE WASTEFUL SPENDING

RESTORE INTEGRITY TO CITYGOVERNMENT

For

FIRST, she listens...YOUR voice at City Hall

“We can no longer aff ord to gamblePaducah’s future betting on a‘convention center’ economy.”


David Guess is a former city commis-sioner and owner and operator of David Guess Heating & Air. He also owns rental property in the city’s Lower Town area and has two adult children. He graduated from Paducah Tilghman High School and from Murray State University with a major in business and minor in biology.


As a business owner and previous city commissioner, I’ll use my experience and determination to impact Paducah. A conservative outlook overseeing city fi nances is vital. Economic growth is es-sential. As a single dad, I have personal interest in unleashing Paducah’s poten-tial so my kids will want to stay here!


Two groups coming together for the common good is good. Mike Karnes stated, “the most compelling reason for a unifi ed government is our children and having good jobs for them.” City and county governments merging could open the door. I believe many things need to still be worked out.


Most of these issues are community

decisions and not ‘city or county’ deci-sions. It would be nice if money wasn’t an issue, but it usually is. Most of these are hard decisions and cooler heads must prevail. It would be nice if the county would participate with the city.


A. We must maintain services, especially law en-forcement.

B. Focusing on re-lationships between the community and education is essen-tial. It’s time to look to our city’s future. I want to keep my kids, Josh and Shan-non, in Paducah.

C. We need to get the Convention Cen-ter back to an asset.


Finalizing a tenant next to the Conven-tion Center is the top project. We have put so much money into it. Without a hotel promoting the facility, it is costing a lot of money just to pay utility bills. It was built as an asset, and it’s really not right now.

David Guess

Guess

Brandon Hall is a Murray State Univer-sity student studying computer science and currently works in the software engineering group at Computer Services Inc. He moved to Paducah in the sixth grade, went on to graduate from Lone Oak High School and the enlisted in the Navy for several years.

Brandon Hall

Hall

Eric Youngblood is a West Kentucky Community & Tech-nical College crimi-nal justice student. He has also served on several college boards and organi-zations. He says he is fi rst and fore-most a husband, father, grandfather and student.

Eric Youngblood

Youngblood

Sandra Wilson serves as the public affairs manager at NewPage-Wickliffe Paper Co., where she has worked for 25 years. She graduated from Calloway County High School and Murray State University with a bachelor’s degree in communications. She is married and has one daughter and one stepdaughter.


As Paducah Economic Development Chair, I worked closely with both commis-sions to develop the idea, now a reality, for assisting Murray State with the funds for a new facility in Paducah. This helped me to decide that I wanted to serve the community in the role of an elected offi cial.


Personally, I plan to vote for it. The most compelling reasons for my support are: 1) Paducah/McCracken County will move from 15th to the 3rd largest community in the state; 2) improvement in economic development recruiting; 3) potential cost savings; and 4) a united voice and community.

3. How will you handle the differing opinions between the city and coun-ty: funding the convention center, pauper burial, soccer fi eld locations, annexation and others?

It is important to have open and hon-

est communications; study how other communities are addressing these issues; and work together to solve these matters. A merged government would solve these concerns.


More than one-third of our children live in poverty; lack of pop-ulation growth; and ensuring our com-munity is business friendly. I believe we should continuously enhance the educa-tional opportunities in our community, create new jobs through the recruitment of new companies and the expansion of existing businesses, and support entre-preneurship.


Recruitment of more jobs and invest-ment in the city. If the city has increased revenue from new development, more homeowners, and more people em-ployed in the city, then it will be easier to do the items on our wish list to improve the overall quality of life for our citizens.

Sandra Wilson

Wilson

EXPERIENCED LEADERSHIPArmy Veteran - 101st Airborne Division,

Ft Campbell, KYPast union president - VA Medical Center, Marion, IL

Trained Mediator - Alternative Dispute ResolutionOwned and operated small business - Madison Hall

SUPPORTS QUALITY OF LIFE ISSUESJobs/Economic growthHealth & Recreation

DEVELOPING DOWNTOWN REIGNING IN TAXES AND SPENDING

Paid for by Rodney Worak

VOTE

RODNEY WORAKFOR

CITY COMMISSIONER


www.sandrawilsonforpaducah.com

Rodney Worak is recently retired from the Veterans Administration Hospital in Marion, Ill., where he worked in human resource management. He also served with the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell from 1972 to 1975 and is a previous owner of the Madison Hall Ball-room and Banquet Facility in Paducah. He is married with three children.


I think Paducah is a great place to live and work, but it could be better. Right now, there are several key issues that will shape the future, and the city com-mission will play a pivotal role. I would like to be a part of that.


Merging would make Paducah the third largest city in Kentucky, right behind Louisville and Lexington, making us more attractive to business and industry, and perhaps eligible for more state and federal funding. It would also better serve the people because 9 of 12 com-missioners would be required to live in the districts they represent.

3. How will you handle the differing opinions between the city and county: funding the convention center, pauper burial, soccer fi eld locations, annexation and others.

As a retired labor/management offi cial

and a mediator for the V.A. Medical Cen-ter in Marion, Ill., I understand compro-mise and mediation.


Jobs and economic growth, health and recreational opportunities, and less division between city and county govern-ments. We should focus on infrastruc-ture; wider roads, improved neighbor-hoods, and parking downtown. In order to bring in corpora-tions and small businesses, we need to continue support-ing road construc-tion and offering tax incentives.


One that is really working is “Partners In Progress.” The work in the Fountain Avenue area is bringing the neighbor-hood back to life. Homes are nice, but affordable. Young professionals and families are moving back to the city. Living near work, school, shopping, etc. means you can walk to many of the places you need to go. That’s good for health and saves on gas.

Rodney Worak Sr.

Worak


Shelley Keeling Sr. is a lifelong Pa-ducah resident and owner of Legend Gourmet and BBQ in Paducah. He gradu-ated from Lincoln High School in 1964, was in the United States Navy Reserves for six years and then went to work for Pennwalt Corp. in Calvert City, where he was active in the union. He has been married for 15 years, has four children and 16 grandchildren.


I am running to give the people the voice they have never had. Good leaders must always be good listeners although the present leadership has not kept it. Hope alive, they have done a pretty good job of keeping closed door politics alive and well.


Under the present leadership in the county and city, I am not for it myself. If it is passed by the voters I would do my utmost to make it work. Right now it’s like a box of chocolates, if you know what I mean.


The Convention Center commitment

should be kept, not kick it under the bus. I’d rather the city go broke before denying someone the peace and dignity of a proper burial. About the soccer fi eld, too much was paid for the property. Mon-ey should have gone to develop it.

4. What are the top three items you will address, if elected? Please provide some details on one of them.

It is time youth are taught self-respect. I will pass an ordi-nance banning baggy pants on the ground. Showing your under-wear is disrespect-ful and tasteless. Schools in Tennes-see banned this. It is also time for com-petition for Comcast. What about U-Verse? I have heard good things about this service.


I would like to see a better working relationship with the unions. These hard working people deserve this consid-eration; after all, they have earned it. Saving jobs, creating jobs, attracting new business without a strong tax.

Shelley Keeling

Keeling

“People Serving People”

What Our Families Think Matters The Most.

Exit 11, North of I-24 •Paducah, KY 42003 • (270) 415-1885

Putting Pers onal Decisions in your hands.

SIMPLIFY• those personal fi nal wishes with the ability to Transfer and Own your Plan.PROTECT THE FAMILY’S ASSETS• with a pre-arrangement plan allowed by the KY Preneed Law.EDUCATE• the family with ‘Matters of Life’ at Paducah Senior Center 11:30 a.m every 2nd ThursdayLEARN• more about today’s Elder Law and Elder Abuse issues by joining us on WVHM radio 90.5 FM every 3rd Saturday, 10 a.m.RECEIVE• your FREE ‘SESAME STREET GRIEF KIT(s) for CHILDREN’ or youth groups by stopping by our offi ce.

Older Adult SeminarSponsored by Paducah District United Methodist Older Adult Ministry; Endorsed by Purchased Area Administrative District

Elder Abuse & Mistreatment: Being Informed, Being Empowered!

Thursday, May 31, 2012 9:00am - 3:20pmReidland United Methodist Church

5515 Reidland Road • Paducah, KY 42003270-898-2114

$15/per person (cost includes lunch & prizes)$10 additional/ CEU Credit Available

Any questions call Vida McClure at 270-653-3352 or Cathy Burkhead at 270-898-4250

BRENDA HUGHES ALLCOCKKY Licensed Funeral Director, Advance Personal Planner

[email protected]

(270) 519-0896


What Does aVote for

Keeling Mean? - No More Closed Door Meetings - A Better Relationship with the Local Unions

- Better Services for our Seniors with Contracts like Cable TV

- Last, but not least, if elected I will get them baggy pants off the ground and teach our youth to respect themselves

Shelley KeelingA VeteranPaid for by Shelley Keeling

Raynarldo Henderson moved to Paducah in 1992 to serve as the pastor/clergy at Washington Street Baptist Church. A Chicago native, Henderson was educated, licensed and ordained in his hometown before moving to Louisville for further edu-cation in the 1980s. He has been married for 23 years and has three children.


I am running for city commissioner in or-der to bring my specifi c gifts and skills of visionary leadership, administration, and compassion to the table. My desire is to add to the progress and to leave Paducah better than it is now.


The merger has my full support. The merger is a positive and progressive move, raising our status from the 15th largest city in Kentucky to the 3rd. This progressive move will assist our com-munities in accomplishing many things, most specifi cally, speaking with one voice, which can increase economic develop-ment.


It is important that the city and county speak with one voice. Therefore both must sit down and talk issues through,

and make decisions that will ultimately benefi t the masses and not just a few. This may mean that personal bias be eliminated.

4. What are the top three items you will address if elected? Please provide some details on one of them.

Lucrative employ-ment, economic development, and controlled spending are issues that I will address if elected. I am particularly inter-ested in economic development. Cities that are growing are doing so because they are attracting businesses and residents, as well as re-taining residents and creating incentives where established businesses can thrive.


The top project facing our city is eco-nomic development, which can potentially increase the tax base, job development, business retention and economic diver-sifi cation. If accomplishing this, our city can experience a healthy economy, which means a healthy community. People and businesses are looking for a new home. Why not Paducah?

Raynarldo Henderson

Henderson


Tuesday, June 5th10:07 AMAUCTIONAUCTIONAbs

olute

3315 Park Avenue, Paducah, KYI-24 Business Loop • Hwy 60

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ROBERT ALEXANDERROBERT ALEXANDERREAL ESTATE & AUCTION CO.REAL ESTATE & AUCTION CO.Robert Alexander, CAI, Broker/Auctioneer • John Alexander, AuctioneerRobert Alexander, CAI, Broker/Auctioneer • John Alexander, Auctioneer

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RARERAREONLINE AUCTIONS: 270-556-5212 Ashley Alexander & Staci AlexanderONLINE AUCTIONS: 270-556-5212 Ashley Alexander & Staci Alexander

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±7 Prime Commercial Acres, ±1340ft Road Frontage on Paducah, KY’s hottest stretch of commercial real estate. Offered in 5 Tracts. 3 commercial buildings, city water, city sewer, natural gas, 3-phase power. Complete Liquidation of Precision Transmission & Express Automotive.Tract 1: Express Automotive. ±6435 sq.ft. Building. All utilities available, ±2435 sq.ft. show room & offi ces w/commercial entry doors and overhead door, ±4000 sq.ft. Shop with 4 ±16 x 11ft overhead doors, 2 stock rooms, 3 restrooms, 12ft ceiling, fl uorescent lighting, one separate ±20 x 40ft bay, concrete block construction, steel siding, blacktop, ±158ft Frontage on Hwy 60 x ±189ft deep. ±30,000 sq.ft. Tract 2: Precision Transmission. ±6800 sq.ft. Building. All utilities available, reception area, large offi ce, restrooms, 8 ±10 x 12ft overhead doors, 1 separate ±20 x 40ft bay, post frame construction, steel siding, ±11,600 sq.ft. concrete apron, black top, ±158 x 474ft. ±75,000 sq.ft. ±1-3/4 Acre. Combine 1 & 2 for ±2.41 Acres. Tract 3: Corner Tract on Hwy 60 and Metcalf Lane. All utilities available. ±170 x 190ft. Tract 4: ±5,128 sq.ft. Commercial Building. Commercial entry doors, sheet rock offi ces, restrooms, reception area, kitchen, 3 overhead doors, 6ft security fenced yard, blacktop parking. All utilities available. ±475ft Frontage on Metcalf Lane x ±157ft of depth. ±75,000 sq.ft. ±1-3/4 Acres. Combine 3 & 4 for ±2-1/2 Acres. Tract 5: ±377ft on Metcalf Lane x ±320ft deep. 2-12/ Acres. Water, gas & electric available. City sewer down to property. Combine any 3 adjoining tracts for 5 or more Acres.Auctioneer’s Note: Wayne McGee is retiring after operating Precision Transmission and several other businesses at this location for 30 years, and has ordered “sold yesterday” all real estate holdings, all retail stock; all transmission re-build equipment & all shop equipment. A Wall to Wall Liquidation Auction. See later ads for listing of equipment & inventory selling.SPECIAL NOTE: Huge liquidation sale in progress at Express Automotive. Go haggle. Lots of accessories.Terms of Auction: Real Estate - 15% deposit day of auction, balance within 30 days. A 10% buyer premium will be added to the fi nal bid/s and included in the total contract price/s. Tracts offered separate and combined as per bidder/s options.

Tract 1: Express Automotive Tract 2: Precision Transmission Tract 4: Body Shop

±7 Prime Hwy 60 Commercial Acres • ±1340ft Road Frontage


1-800-568-3565 • (270) 443-1442250 Lone Oak Road

Paducah, Kentucky 42001

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