Preble Shawnee Board of Education

Dennis W. Gamble (Write-in)

Brief Biography: Resident in Preble Shawnee School District for over 44 years. Graduated from Preble Shawnee Class of 1977. Married to Kristy and have two daughters, Lexi and Carlee, and two grandchildren, Story and Sailor. Bachelor Degree in Business Administration. Founder of Professional Computer Consultants Inc., which includes PCC Internet Group, PCC ATM Services Inc., Supportive Services Aid and Cemetery Tracker.

Served on the following associations and boards:

Camden Village Council

Preble Shawnee Board of Education

Board Member of Middletown Area Junior Achievement

Board Member Middletown Area Senior Center

Chairman of the Board of the Chamber of Commerce serving Middletown, Monroe and Trenton

Why are you the most qualified for the seat you are seeking?

I believe my business experience as well as my membership and leadership roles on several associations and boards makes me very qualified to represent Preble Shawnee as a school board member.

When I am involved, I am not a person who sits on a board and does nothing! I work to make positive things happen!

The Preble Shawnee School District must not lose sight of its students, because they are the most important assets. Their future depends on receiving a quality education and they need someone to be fighting for them so they can succeed in life! I have been on the board before and believe we did a lot of great things for the Preble Shawnee School District at that time! But this is a new time, we need someone to help get things done. I am willing to do that!

I know I am the underdog in this election because I am a “Write In Candidate,” which means voters will not see my name on the ballot. If you choose to elect me as a board member, you must right my name on the ballot! It is my sincere hope that the voters in the Preble Shawnee School District will take the time when voting to write my name on the ballot! If I am elected, I will do everything in my power to help make our school district the best it can be!

Jeff Wood

My name is Jeff Wood and I am running for a position on the Preble Shawnee Board of Education. I live in Camden and am employed by Wood Propane. I am a graduate of Preble Shawnee and have a bachelor’s degree in political science from Ohio University. I was motivated to run by the current board’s decision to refuse state funding that would help our district pay to update our current facilities. I was dumbfounded that the board turned down the building project funds when it seemed obvious that the voters wanted the opportunity to decide for themselves.

After attending every school board meeting since March, after attending sporting events and volunteering for school activities, after touring schools, after talking to hundreds of people: students, past and current teachers, administrators, ordinary citizens, and current school board members, I have learned a lot about the current state of the district. Although I have much more to learn, it is clear to me that Shawnee Pride is not dead, but it has taken a hit in recent years. We have many excellent teachers, administrators, staff members, and board members who are hard working, talented, and loyal to our district. We have students that excel, despite a lack of resources that are afforded to neighboring school districts. However, our enrollment is shrinking, our teacher turnover rate is high, and our teachers are strained by government required testing and a shortage of resources. I see a school district that is required to do more with less, in woefully inadequate facilities.

These problems won’t be solved overnight and can’t be fixed without the support of the communities in our district. I feel that I would be able to help motivate the people in our communities to become more involved and excited about our schools. I want to see more people attend school board meetings and I want to encourage people to express their ideas for improving our schools, not just their complaints. I want to be part of a solution-oriented school board.

If elected, I will be available to listen to the input of the people in the district and I will always take their opinions into consideration. Furthermore, I promise to consider, at all times, the financial constraints of the taxpayers.

Tri-County North Board of Education

Rodney C. Schaar

I am seeking an open position on the Tri County North Local School District Board of Education.

I have been a resident of Lewisburg for the last 15 years and have been very involved in the community. I’ve been fortunate enough to be a coach, school board member, TCN Sports Booster member and advocate for the educational process for the children of our community. I work, live, worship and am committed to Preble County. My greatest qualification lies in the fact that I always put the needs of the children of our community first in all decisions I have made while on the Board. I have served a full term and fulfilled another member’s term which includes six years of experience on the board.

Larry Seibel

Tri-County North School Board

Current – Diesel Technology Instructor at Miami Valley CTC, 5 years

I have taught at a career center for 35 years, including 8 years as an administrator.

I grew up in the Twin Valley North school district, attended The Ohio State University dual majoring in Ag Education/Ag Mechanization and Systems.

I have my masters from OSU in Ag Education.

My four adult children graduated from TCN.

I am most qualified because I have spent the largest portion of my life as a local resident, I farm in the community and since my career is in education at both the teaching and administrative levels, I understand all aspects of the challenges facing education today.

Preble County Educational Service Center

Rhonda Schaar

My name is Rhonda Schaar and I’m a Lewisburg resident and educator with 24 years experience. I have filed petitions to be on the ballot for the Preble County Educational Service Center Board Member (ESC) in November. I have experience as a principal and a teacher in urban, rural and suburban school districts. I have served my community as a teacher, coach, class advisor, Sunday school teacher, sports booster officer and administrator. I’m very qualified for this position as I am a strong advocate of local control in educational decisions and spending. I am committed to providing the best education for the students of Preble County.

Carrie M. Steele

I am a graduate of Twin Valley North. Married to Greg Steele. We have two sons, Jason and Justin, and two grandchildren, Jake and Molly.

I was a member of TVN PTO, elected to TCN school board. I am currently on the Preble County Educational Service Center board, having served on leadership/board committees. For several years I was a judge for the Preble County spelling bees.

I have always voted as a board member in the best interests of all the students of Preble County and will continue to serve you, your children/grandchildren, when elected.

Gratis Township

Richard Bair

I am seeking the position of Gratis Township Trustee. I have served as trustee for 20 years and am currently the Fiscal Officer for Gratis Township. I am running this year as trustee so I can help improve the relationship between the township and both of our villages that provide our safety services (Fire and EMS). I also want to be able to help with the transition when a new Fiscal Officer is elected. I have served as Fiscal Officer for the past 12 years and it is a difficult job. The financial integrity of the township is of the utmost importance.

In the past 4 years we have been successful in getting grants to help us pay for three tornado sirens. We have also purchased additional land for the Fairmound Cemetery. As a retired worker from AK Steel I would be available to help on a full time basis. I am presently a member on the Butler Rural Board of Directors and have served for the past 12 years. I also serve as treasurer of the West Elkton Area Veterans Memorial Committee.

Michael Campbell

I seek your support for my candidacy for Gratis Township Fiscal Officer. For those of you who may not know me, my name is Michael Campbell. Most know me as Harvey. I have lived in the township with my wife, Heather Campbell for the past 17 years. We have three children who attend Preble Shawnee.

After high school, I attended and graduated from Miami University with a degree in math education. To further my education, I attended and graduated from Wright State University with a master’s degree in Educational Leadership. Currently I am employed as a teacher by Butler Technology.

The workings of the township are very familiar to me as I served as Gratis Township Trustee from 2006-2009.

As your fiscal officer, I would be responsible for the book keeping of the township along with filing quarterly and yearly reports to the IRS, and keeping minutes of the township meetings. My education and experience make me very qualified for this position. I know that I will work hard for the people of Gratis Township.

Gina Schneider

My name is Gina Schneider and I am asking for your vote for Gratis Township Fiscal Officer. I have been a resident of Gratis Township for over 11 years. Although not a lifelong resident of the township, this has become my home and I care deeply about the residents of the township. I am 2001 graduate of Oak Hills High School in Cincinnati where I was born and raised. I currently reside in the township with my husband Robert “Bobby” a current Captain with the Preble County Sheriff’s Office and our two children, Jadyn and Brody, who currently attend Preble Shawnee Schools. I am a Registered Nurse at a Dayton area hospital on the family birthing unit. I am a member of the Gratis F.O.E. lodge # 4289.

My main focus as the Fiscal Officer would be to keep the township of Gratis financially stable. I believe that I am the most qualified candidate for this position because I have very strong organization and time management skills. I am also punctual and reliable.

Harrison Township

Joe Conley

Positionseeking: Harrison Township Trustee

Biography: Joe Conley, born and raised in Salyersville, Kentucky. Farmer, Entrepreneur, Father, Grandfather, Friend, Lewisburg Trailrider Member, 50-year Masonic Lodge Member, and Lewisburg Community Member.

I moved from Kentucky to Dayton in 1960 and onto a farm in Lewisburg in 1973. I raised one son in the Lewisburg community, and have two granddaughters, one grandson and two great grandsons, who all are still Lewisburg community members. As an entrepreneur, I have been a business owner in the construction industry for 33 years, partnering in my first business in 1982, and establishing Protective Coatings, Inc. in 1993.

As a member of Harrison Township, I have always looked for Trustees with the following three abilities: 1) Prioritization of projects under a fixed budget, 2) Understanding of maintenance/repair requirements of Ditches, Waterways, and Drain Tiles, and 3) The importance of snow removal.

As a small business owner in the construction industry, I understand the importance of aligning budget availability with project priorities. As Harrison Township Trustee I will utilize these skills to ensure projects are effectively prioritized, properly cost, and timely executed at the level of quality our Township deserves.

Having been a farmer in Harrison Township for 43 years, I understand the importance of well-maintained ditches, drain tiles, and waterways and I have used my own equipment to repair and maintain them in and around my fields. I have also had success in utilizing grants to assist in the cost of fixing water erosion problems in my fields. As Harrison Township Trustee I will work to insure that our ditches, tiles, and waterways are prioritized and maintained in a timely and cost effective manner and commit to search and apply for grants that would help lower the cost burden of such repairs to the township.

As a grandfather I know how important snow removal is for the safety of my grandchildren and great grandchild to get to Tri-County North Schools. As an entrepreneur I know how important snow removal is to get to work on time and safety. As Harrison Township Trustee I will be dedicated to ensuring the roads in our township have proper snow removal as needed.

I am well suited to execute the responsibilities of Township Trustee for Harrison Township..

Steve Oswalt

Harrison Township Trustee

Age 54

Political Experience: None

Past Community Involvement: Volunteer Fire fighter, Aux Police, 4H advisor, Pee Wee football coach

Family: Married 31 years to Donna, four children: Heather, Steven, Shane and Holly

I believe that the township trustee should be a leader in the community. I have served this community volunteering my time and efforts, demonstrating through my community involvement that I can be trusted to serve the needs of the people. I have operated a successful business for 10 years. I have been involved in the community in many way’s from sports, volunteer fire fighter to 4H. Some of the skills I bring are in budgeting and forecasting, negotiation, project management. I plan on managing the township with a conservative approach, strengthening its foundation, so the services that are provided do not become a burden to taxpayers.

Israel Township

Rita Kimball

Hello Fellow Citizens of Israel Township.

I am a resident of Israel Township and my name is Rita Kimball. The position I am seeking is Israel Township Fiscal Officer.

I have been involved in many community functions, as well as having many years of experience in payroll and accounting administration. My degree from Miami University has allowed me to be versatile in my career. I served on the Bicentennial Board of Managers as a representative for Israel Township. I also served on the Camden-Somers Township Fire and Rescue Squad as a NREMT-B, along with being a CPR Instructor. My husband and I are members of the Preble County Emergency Response Team (CERT). I have been Chairman of Trustees for Church and also currently hold the position of Treasurer. I am a Commissioned Public Notary, and a current member of the American Payroll Association.

I feel I am the most qualified for the Fiscal Officer’s position because of my past and current experience in my career and community functions. Not only do I have Grant Funding experience; I also have experience with obtaining Issue 2 Funds for road paving and repairs. Currently, I am retired and will dedicate my time to improving the services in Israel Township. I am not the type of person that sits back and wishes for someone to make a change. I will be the person in the forefront who makes an effort to bring about positive change that does make a difference and enhances the value of Israel Township property. Changes that not only improve for the rural residents, but also bring about improvements for the residents of College Corner, Fairhaven, and Morning Sun.

Franklin D. Keeler

Israel Township Trustee

I was born and raised in Israel township and currently live in Morning Sun with my wife Diane. We raised three children, all of whom continue to reside in Preble County. I am retired from Hueston Woods State Park with 22 years of service. As a state park employee my title was Groundskeeper #3. My responsibilities included but were not limited to, grass cutting, snowplowing, tree cutting and litter removal. I have an excellent work record and maintain a CDL license for truck driving.

I plan on putting your tax dollars to work by being a full-time trustee. The job of Trustee is important and requires someone who is readily available. I have no other work obligations. My previous employment experience makes me an excellent candidate who would require little training. I have a personal interest in the care and upkeep of Israel Township.

Matt Nixon

Israel Township Trustee

Matt Nixon has lived in Israel township his entire life. He was raised on a farm and is currently a farmer and also an auctioneer for Kramer and Kramer. Matt has been an Israel Township trustee since March 2015. He has been married to Hannah Nixon since 2010. Together they have two children, Cooper (3) and Oakley (1). Matt and his family bought their home in 2014 and are enjoying the country farm life. Matt strives to upkeep the township so his family and community members can live in a safe and well kept environment.

Matt Nixon is qualified for Israel Township Trustee because he currently is serving as a trustee and understands what the job fully entails. Matt has a very flexible schedule to be able to do all of the township duties. And because he was raised on a farm, he acquired good work ethic, self motivation, the knowledge of repairing anything not functioning properly. He is also skilled at working with a budget and saving money. He is energetic and excited about improving the township he is proud to reside in. Matt looks forward to serving the community and taking on the challenges that may arise in the future.

Stephen Pierson

My name is Stephen Pierson, I am running for the position of Israel Township Trustee. I have lived in this township all my life and this is where my wife Sheila, and I chose to raise our family. We have two sons, Brad and Spencer and five grandchildren. We love this area and love living here.

I have more than 45 years experience in construction, building roads, ponds, grading, and supervising others. I was employed by SK Const. for 30 years and am currently employed part time at Mt. Pleasant Black Topping. I know that I can bring all of the knowledge that I have gained to help the citizens of this township. If you give me your vote I will work to accomplish what needs to be done. I will encourage everyone to call me with their questions and their problems, and I will give them my full attention.

John S. Wright

As a lifelong resident of Israel Township and Board member of said township, I, John S. Wright would appreciate your vote of confidence in the upcoming November election for Israel Township Fiscal Officer. I with my wife Lavon have three children and live on a four-generation operational farm, and attend the Fairhaven Community Church. I currently hold this position of fiscal officer finishing out a term. I have grown in knowledge of the current accounting software, and am committed to continue to fiscally and efficiently utilize the budget for the betterment of our township. I am an Eaton High School graduate class of 1981, and Ohio State graduate class of 1985. I served as an Israel Township trustee for 25 plus years, I am in my 2nd term as the Historic Hopewell Treasurer, and on the Hueston Woods Region Visitor’s Bureau. I know extensively the layout and history of the township cemeteries which would only come with my many years of service. I have a good rapport and working relationship with contacts from the Engineer’s office and several other County offices to be able to communicate and complete tasks quickly and thoroughly. I have been available and will continue to be available since my farming schedule allows for such.

Jefferson Township

David Wesler

Position sought: Jefferson Township fiscal officer

I am a lifelong resident of Jefferson township and have been the fiscal officer of Jefferson Township for over 11 years. After graduating from The Ohio State University, I received Continuing Education Credits from the Auditor of State. I resigned this position while serving as Preble County Commissioner, but was appointed Fiscal Officer by the trustees on July 1, 2015. I am a member of the New Paris Kiwanis Club and the New Paris Chamber of Commerce. My wife Mary and I have three children and five grandchildren.

I believe my years of experience and dedication to the residents of Jefferson Township, plus my vast knowledge of the Auditor of State’s Uniform Accounting Network, make me the best candidate for this position. I have successfully applied for several grants thru the Ohio Public Works Commission to stretch our Townships dollars even further. I am proud of our township and what the trustees have been able to accomplish through wise money management.

Lanier Township

Clarence “Buster” Eby

Lanier Township Trustee

Fellow residents of Lanier Township, my name is Clarence “Buster” Eby and I am seeking re-election for Lanier Township Trustee.

I am a lifelong resident of Lanier Township as was my father, grandfather, and great grandfather. I attended school at Lanier High School and Twin Valley South when consolidated.

My wife, Janet and I reside on Moses Road and have purchased the family farm.

I am a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Ingomar, Associate Member and volunteer of the American Legion Post 322, volunteer to the Sons of the American Legion, have served on the Preble County Bicentennial Committee for Lanier Township, a Preble County Historical Society member and volunteer, have attended the yearly Ohio Township Association Winter Conferences in Columbus Ohio, and I am the current President of the Preble County Township Association.

I have been employed as Sales Manager for 33 years in Brookville, Ohio at Boose Chevrolet and continue with the new owner Jeff Reichard. I have over forty years of business experience including managing employees, creating and meeting budgets, purchasing, evaluating, and maintaining equipment, all of which are qualities that are required for the trustee position. I have introduced and implemented operational policies and procedure guidelines as needed.

Some of the township’s improvements in the last four years of my term have included: listing the Township phone number with answering machine, introduction of a Township newsletter, expansion of the Twin Valley Cemetery, improved records by digitally mapping the cemetery plots, the purchase of a mini track hoe improving efficiency, reducing liability and improving safety for burials, the purchase of brush cutting attachment, allowing a safer environment for employees and increased production. The current board has also worked with agencies to clean up abandoned properties.

Successful operation of a township is a combined effort of three trustees, a fiscal officer, and dedicated employees, all striving to improve and maintain the quality of living in our community. The past four years have been very rewarding and I have benefited from all who I have worked with. As trustee, my commitment is to serve the residents of Lanier Township by listening and responding to their needs and concerns, managing their tax dollars to achieve the maximum benefit and to investigate all avenues of resources for any additional funds available. All of which is my top priority.

Thank you for the last four years and for your consideration in the upcoming election.

Jeff Hickey

Name: Jeff Hickey

Position: Lanier Township Trustee

Biography: Lifelong resident of Lanier Township. Attended Lanier school and graduated from Twin Valley South High School in 1976. Have been married to JoEllen (McIntire) Hickey for 35 years. We have four grown children, Jacob, Josh, Jobe and Jessica.

Employed for 26 years with Standard Register in Dayton. During this time I held various roles including Production and Maintenance Manager, also worked in engineering for 4 years as an Applications Engineer.

I have served for 23 years on the West Alexandria Volunteer Fire Department, currently serving as Assistant Chief of the Department.

I am currently employed with International Paper in Middletown as Maintenance Planner for the plant.

Qualifications for Lanier Township Trustee: With my experience on the Fire Department I can insure our Emergency Services tax dollars are managed properly. I have years of experience managing people, budgets and projects. I have always been held accountable to insure departmental and project budgets were managed at or below goal.

Our trustees need to be held accountable in the same manner, insuring every one of our tax dollars are allocated appropriately.

When elected I will use my experience to resolve the pressing issues facing our township.

Public servants are put in to office to serve the taxpayer and I pledge when elected that I will serve all Lanier Township residents equally and fairly.

I feel I am qualified to serve the residents of Lanier Township as their trustee.

Somers Township

Kelda S. Bittinger

My name is Kelda S. Bittinger. I am running for re-election for Somers Township Fiscal Officer.

I have 21 years experience with government budgeting. I work part time a local bank in Camden. I attended Marshall University and have attended various banking courses through the years. Since my election to Somers Township Fiscal Officer in 2012, I have had two good bi-annual State Audits.

George W. Corrington

Fiscal Officer for Somers Township

I have lived in Somers Township for 54 years; graduated from Preble Shawnee High School and attended Miami University and went in business for myself. I have been employed by a bank for the past 9.5 years.

I have always been accountable for my own actions and would appreciate the opportunity to be accountable to the Somers Township taxpayers. Thanks for your support.

William ‘Bill’ McQuiston

I am William ‘Bill’ McQuiston and I am running for the position of Somers Township Trustee. I am a 9th generation resident of Preble County and a 4th generation resident of Somers Township. My wife Keri and I along with our four children live on the family farm where I was born and raised. I am a 1990 graduate of Preble Shawnee High School and a graduate of the University of Northwest Ohio in Lima. I am employed at Twin Valley Equipment in Eaton and I farm along side my father on our family farm. I am an assistant advisor of the Somers Super Beef 4-H club and a proud supporter of the FFA.

I have a class A CDL and experience operating and maintaining all types of equipment from tractors and backhoes to mowing equipment. I feel that I have the experience and knowledge it takes to maintain the township. I am willing to put in the extra time whether it is holiday, weekends or after hours to keep our township looking and working great.

If elected I am looking forward to working with the Camden Somers Township Fire and Rescue so I can be better informed when it comes to making decisions that affect not only Somers Township but everyone that travels through our Township.

Steve Pheanis

I’m Steve Pheanis and I’m running for Somers Township Trustee.

I’ve been married to my wife, Jeannie, for 25 years. I have one son, Derek, who is 20 years old. I’ve lived in Camden all my life, 57 years. I’ve been employed through Schneider Electric/Square D of Oxford for 39 years. I’m a current member of the First Southern Baptist Church in Camden. I was on the Camden Somers Township fire department for 8 years before becoming a part time police officer for the Village of Camden for 10 years and a Special Deputy for Preble County for 24 years. I was elected 2 terms in 2001 and 2005 for the Village of Camden council. While being on council I served on various committees.

My goals as Somers Township Trustee if I am elected are to help the fire board make crucial decisions regarding the operations of the Camden Somers Fire Department. I will work closely with the other township officials to help in the day to day operations of Somers Township which include the township road maintenance and the cemetery maintenance. I will assist in hands on weather related emergencies or anytime assistance is needed. I will listen to the concerns of the citizens of Somers Township and do my best to help solve any problems.

I look forward to serving the citizens of Somers Township!

Earl Stanley

Candidate for Somers Township Trustee

Biography: I am a life long resident of Somers Township. My wife Debra and I have been married for 22 years and have three daughters together. Our daughters are all currently enrolled full-time at Miami University. I am also the proud grandfather of four grandkids.

I am a member of the Fairhaven Community Church. I retired from the Air Force, I was an aircraft mechanic for twenty years. I’m a combat veteran, lifetime member of VFW, Lifetime NRA member and currently employed in management at Miami.

My favorite quote is “God, Family, Church.” I serve my community in several ways by supporting local charities.

I feel I would be most qualified for this position because I have over the years learned how to best serve the needs of others. My military and work experience have also taught me how to solve conflict and have tactical planning for the future.

Village of Camden

Dan Michael

My name is Dan Michael. I am running for re-election for Mayor of Camden..

I am 62 and have been a lifelong resident of Camden. I graduated from Preble Shawnee in 1971 and retired from GE Aviation after 33 years. I presently work part time at The Hampton Inn-Oxford.

As a resident of Camden I have knowledge of the problems that affect our citizens and believe we are heading into a great time to improve our village. As the incumbent I have the knowledge of how the government works and ways to get assistance from available resources.

Village of Gratis

John David Johnston

Position running for: Gratis Mayor

Biography: I am 61 years old, celebrating 40 years of marriage to my wife Penny. I have lived in Gratis since the early 80s. I have raised two daughters here and currently have five grandchildren living in Gratis.

Why are you the most qualified for seat you are seeking?

I have served on council since the early 90’s. I’m very interested in keeping Gratis a nice place to raise our families. If re-elected on Nov. 3, I will continue serving our community by working with council to support our EMS, Fire, Police, Street, Water/Sewer Departments and keep our village a safe place to raise our families.

Thank you and “God Bless.”

Cindy Hoffman

My name is Cindy Hoffman and I am a candidate for the Gratis Village Council. I am married to Tim Hoffman and we have two sons, Chris and Kevin Hoffman. My parents Glenda and Lamar Lawson have been residents of Gratis for 43 years. They have instilled the values of integrity, honesty, effort, pride and the belief that actions speak louder than words. I strive to maintain these values and look forward to an opportunity to also be part of positive change within the village council and the village of Gratis.

My motivation to run for village council is inspired by the need our village has for unity, structure and a move in a positive direction. I want to have a voice in this and I will do everything in my power to bring respect back to our community while also helping to offer a welcoming environment that will stimulate the development of strong trust and partnership with neighboring communities as well as businesses old and new in our village.

On Nov. 3 remember, “your voice, your choice.”

Benjamin Roles

Gratis Council Member

My name is Benjamin Roles and I am running for Gratis Village Council. I relocated to Ohio from Pennsylvania in 1999, moved to Preble County in 2003, and have lived in Lanier Township for the next 10 years. My wife, Shannon, a Gratis native, my son, Isaac, and I moved to Gratis in 2013. Currently, I fill a supervisory position at Applied Mechanical Systems, where I have been employed for the past 12 years. I feel that if elected as council member, I can bring some good qualities to the seat. One imperative that comes to mind, would be my determination to set personal feelings aside and keep the best interest of our community as priority. If I am given the opportunity to serve the Gratis community, it is my intent bring careful consideration, fresh perspective, and unbiased opinion to the issues on the table.

Village of West Alexandria

Brandon M. Davidson

Position sought: Mayor of West Alexandria

Objectives for West Alexandria:

* I would like to start a Chamber of Commerce for businesses owners

* I would like to install a splash pad where the community pool was located

* I will donate my first year’s pay back into the community

* I would like to start a family fun night in the village

Experience:

West Alexandria Fire Department, FireFighter, January 2013 – present

Responsible for saving lives, saving property, public relations, operating equipment, maintaining equipment.

United States Army, Fort Benning GA. – Infantryman, April 2007 – April 2010

Responsible for operating weapons and equipment in ground combat operations. Supervised up to 30 personnel. Duties included operating and maintaining weapons, such as rifles and machine guns; locating, constructing, and camouflaging infantry positions and equipment; evaluating terrain and recording topographical information; operating and maintaining field communications equipment; assessing need for and directing supporting fire; placing explosives and performing minesweeping activities on land, and participating in basic reconnaissance operations.

Education and training:

MVCTC-HVAC

2015 — Level 2 Fire Training

2014 — Level 1 Fire Training

2013 — 36 Hour Fire Training

2008 — Combat Logistics Patrol (CLP) Urban Training Combat (UTC)

2007 — United States Army Basic Training

Twin Valley South High School,West Alexandria

Awards:

. National Defense Service Medal

. Global War on Terrorism Service Medal

. Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star

. Army Commendation Medal

. Combat Patch

. Army service Ribbon

. Overseas Service Ribbon

. Armed Forces Reserve Medal with Device

. Driver and Mechanic Badge with Driver- Wheeled Vehicles

. Combat Infantry Badge (CIB)

. Good Conduct Medal

. 36 hour fire certification

. Level 1 fire certification

LEADERSHIP

. Truck commander as a Private First Class (2008)

. Convoy Commander as a Private First Class (2008)

. Volunteered to deploy to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF)

. Platoon Leader during United States Army Basic Training (2007)

Military service:

. United States Army, Honorable Discharge

. Operation Iraqi Freedom Combat Veteran

Carol L. Habekost Lunsford

Position seeking: Re-election to Mayor of the Village of West Alexandria

Brief Biography: I am a lifelong resident of the Village of West Alexandria, a proud parent of four and grandparent of 10, a 1959 graduate of West Alexandria High School, a 1960 graduate of Richard Weston Beauty College, and participant in the Ohio State Board of Cosmetology Continuing Education. I am an active lifelong member of Salem Lutheran Church, having served on Church Council, as Education Committee Chairman, a Sunday School teacher for 58 years, member of Chancel and Handbell Choirs and Director of the Children’s Choir. I have been a 4-H advisor for 45 years.

I live my life with the concept of giving back by helping many individuals and volunteering in many local organizations.

Why I feel I am the most qualified for the Mayoral seat in the Village of West Alexandria: As the current mayoral incumbent, an experienced business owner, a lifelong resident and an active member of several philanthropic, non-profit organizations in and around the village, I am well acquainted with the demands of the office of Mayor of West Alexandria. I make myself available to know the needs and challenges our village faces and have a “can do” track record of accomplishments. I truly care for the future of West Alexandria; not just a passing grievance or agenda!

Honors and Accomplishments:

Peace Keeper Award for Caregiver by the Preble County Battered Womens’ Shelter, 2003

Preble County Woman of the Year, 1999

Dayton Daily News Top Ten Women of the Miami Valley 1998 for volunteerism

Founder Caring Citizens Organization

Founder and President of the West Alexandria Anniversary/Celebration Committee

Founder “Christmas In Our Village”

Revived and organized Annual Fourth of July Celebration and Fireworks Display and former Ole Fashioned Jamboree

Commissioned 1997 Founder’s Day, honoring Police, EMS and Fire Depts.

Revived Preble County Mayor’s Association and currently Vice President

President of Advisory General Health District Board, second term as President

Kiwanis of West Alexandria member, former president

Coterie Club member, Vice President and former President

Owner and operator of The Pin Up Shoppe for over 52 years

Active, lifelong member of Salem Lutheran Church, teaching children and serving in music

Secretary of West Alex/TVS Alumni Association

4-H Advisor for 45 years and Member for 10 years

4-H Advisor of the Year, 1985

Former member Ohio Gateway Development Council of Preble County

Former member Council on Aging Board

Former Literacy Volunteer

Former Citizens Emergency Response Team member

Accomplishments during my mayoral incumbency:

Grant for Wogoman Ally egress and ingress for business access in 2014

North and South Main Distress Grant, 2012-2013 upgrading sidewalks, curbs, gutters providing decorative lighting, replacing sewer and water lines.

Community Development Block Grant for Third Street sidewalks, curbs and gutters

CDBG for Smith Street sidewalks, curbs and gutters

Nature Works Beautification Grant for playground equipment, refurbish tennis and basketball courts and swimming pool building roof.

Conducts annual tours of the Town Hall and Water Works Building for TVS third grade students

Annexations of land west of town on U.S. 35 West

Currently instrumental in the merging of the W. Alex EMS and Fire Departments

Currently examining the hiring of a Tax Administrator or with R.I.T.A.

Currently working toward filling the Zoning Inspector position, due to retirement

Appointed two new council members, Ray Waldeck and Ken Carter

Currently Upgrading Waste Water Treatment Plant