VOTER GUIDE. Funding Our Schools. Good Jobs and Clean Water. Racial Justice. Health Care ELECTION DAY IS NOV. 4. Polls open 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

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1 NEW HANOVER COUNTY VOTER 2014 GUIDE Funding Our Schools Good Jobs and Clean Water Racial Justice Health Care ELECTION DAY IS NOV. 4 Polls open 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Early Voting is Oct Nov. 1 See Early Voting times and locations on the back cover THIS NON-PARTISAN VOTER GUIDE WAS PRODUCED BY

2 Page 2 About This Guide This Guide is produced by Democracy North Carolina which is not affiliated with any party and does not make endorsements. Democracy NC combines research, organizing, training, and advocacy to increase voter participation and reduce the influence of money in politics. It has field organizers in different regions of the state, a home office in Durham, and thousands of Democracy Advocates in all 100 counties who volunteer on projects to improve democracy in North Carolina. Candidates for each race were asked questions, and we have provided the answers received by the deadline. Additional information came from the voter guide of the NC Center for Voter Education, which features candidates from all the counties at Unless otherwise noted, vote for one person in each race on your ballot. However, this Guide includes races for offices covering a specific district or part of the county that may not include your home. To review the districts and candidates on your personal ballot, please visit For questions or copies of this Guide, call , or you may download a PDF copy at Have Your Say This year, North Carolina will elect: a U.S. Senator who could determine which party controls the Senate, the make-up of the U.S. Supreme Court, and the priorities of the federal budget; members of the NC General Assembly who set state policies in every aspect of your life; the majority of the NC Supreme Court and many other judges who can overrule lawmakers; and many local officials who enact and enforce the laws that affect your schools, health, land use, and family life. Don t let these officials make decisions without consulting you! Am I registered? You must be registered in your county by October 10 to vote this year. Learn if you are registered at Click on Voter/Absentee Look-Up under For Voters. Enter just your last and first name, not a middle name or birth date, and hit Search. If your name doesn t appear, try using just a couple of letters of your first name with an asterisk (*) as a wild card, or see if you registered using a middle or nickname as your first name. For help, call the New Hanover County Board of Elections at Where do I vote? Who is on my ballot? The look-up feature for checking if you are registered (described above) takes you to your registration page, which includes the location of your precinct s polling place and a box for Sample Ballots with a link to your ballot for the general election (click on the 4 or 5 digit code under Ballots). Show ID? Until 2016, you generally do not need to show an ID to vote. See the box on the back cover for more about ID rules. Straight Ticket. Voters will no longer have the option of marking one box to select all the candidates of one party. Candidates in partisan races will still have their party s label by their names, but voters will need to go down the VOTING IN 2014 Tips for Voting What are the main issues? You ll have a chance to vote on who is in charge of the justice system and public schools, as well as the lawmakers who represent you in Congress, at the General Assembly, and on the county level. NC voters will elect a majority of the NC Supreme Court this year and perhaps the deciding seat in the U.S. Senate that determines which party controls the Senate, appointments to the U.S. Supreme Court, and other crucial decisions. When should I vote? The best time to vote is during Early Voting, from October 23 to November 1. See the locations and times for Early Voting on the back cover. You can update your registration if you ve moved within your county, and you can address other issues that may arise. And it may rain or worse on Election Day! If you wait until Election Day, November 4, you must vote in your own precinct s polling place. You may also vote by mail; see page 3 for details about using absentee voting. ballot, contest by contest, to cast a vote. Be sure to look on both sides of the ballot. Judicial and other candidates in nonpartisan races do not have party labels by their names. Lists. You can take a list of your choices into the polls to help you, but don t leave the list behind or show it to others inside the voting room. Have the list on paper; using a cell phone inside the voting room is not allowed.

3 Tips for Voting (cont d) Assistance. A family member can help you vote at the polls. If you have a disability or difficulty reading (due to language or vision), you have the right to assistance from anyone of your choice except your employer or union agent. Back-up. If you have a problem at the poll, you have the right to receive a provisional ballot and a way to learn if that ballot counted, or if not, the reason why not. If you make a mistake on your ballot as you vote, ask the official for another one. Tip: You must vote in your own precinct if you wait until Election Day. 3 WAYS TO VOTE IN NORTH CAROLINA 1 EARLY VOTING IN PERSON (Oct. 23-Nov. 1) Before Election Day, you can vote early at any of the several Early Voting locations in New Hanover County from Oct. 23 to Nov. 1. See the back cover for the locations and times. You do not need an excuse to vote early. Some sites are open in the evening or on Saturdays. Early Voting can save you time and trouble on Election Day, when it might be raining or worse. Early Voting locations also make it easy to update your address and vote if you have moved within the same county. 2 IN PERSON ON ELECTION DAY (Nov. 4) If you wait until Nov. 4, you must vote in your assigned polling place. The polls open at 6:30 AM and close at 7:30 PM. If you are in the line by 7:30 PM, you will be able to vote. If you cast your ballot in another precinct, it probably will not count. If you don t know where your precinct polling place is, call the New Hanover County Board of Elections at or follow the directions for Where Do I Vote on page 2 of this Guide. 3 MAIL-IN ABSENTEE VOTING Any registered voter can vote using this method. You don t need to be out of town on Election Day or have a special reason to vote by mail. The first step is to submit a request form for an absentee ballot. Get the form at and learn more at The request form must be completed and signed by the voter or the voter s near relative (a near relative is a spouse, brother, sister, child, parent, grand-parent, grandchild, stepparent, stepchild, or mother-, father-, daughter-, or son-in-law). Mail the signed request to New Hanover County Board of Elections, 230 Government Drive Suite 38, Wilmington, NC (mark the envelope Absentee Request ). It must be received by October 28 at 5 PM. Once a valid request is received, a ballot and return envelope will be mailed directly to the voter. When you receive the mail-in ballot, be sure to follow all the directions, including having two witnesses or one notary sign in the appropriate place on the envelope that is provided. To be counted, the voter (or the voter s near relative) can return the voted ballot in three ways: (1) at the Elections Board s office by 5 PM, Nov. 4; (2) at an Early Voting location from Oct. 23 to Nov. 1; or (3) by mail so it is postmarked by Nov. 4 and received at the Board of Elections by Nov. 7. Returning your ballot will take two first-class stamps. Some mail centers do not apply postmarks, so take it inside the post office and request a postmark if it s near the Nov. 4 deadline. Questions? Call the hotline! OUR-VOTE Election experts are standing by to answer all your voting questions! Page 3

4 US SENATE CANDIDATES Kay Hagan (D) Occupation: U.S. Senator Age: 61 Website: Education and Training: B.A. from Florida State University; J.D. from the Wake Forest University School of Law. Background and Experience: Worked at North Carolina National Bank for 10 years, becoming Vice-President; elected to the North Carolina State Senate in 1998; elected to the U.S. Senate in The Voting Rights Amendment Act is a bipartisan bill to restore voting rights protections that were diminished by a recent US Supreme Court decision. Will you vote for passage of the bill and restore the needed protections? Please explain. I would vote for passage of the bipartisan bill and restore these needed protections because I am committed to ensuring fair and equal access to the ballot box. In North Carolina and across the U.S. we should be eliminating barriers to the ballot box, not installing new ones. 2. Will you vote to pass the Disclose Act which requires reporting of campaign contributions before rather than after elections? Please explain your position. I support the DIS- CLOSE Act because North Carolinians deserve to know who is behind outside, special interest group attacks and I am working in the Senate to improve transparency and require groups to report who is funding them. The voices of everyday North Carolinians deserve to be heard, not drowned out. 3. What changes, if any, would you propose to the Affordable Care Act? There are some commonsense fixes we can make for this law to work better for North Carolina. I am focused on pragmatic solutions, like repealing the Medical Device Tax and elminiating a burdensome paperwork requirement for small businesses as we have already done. 4. In addition to the Veterans Healthcare Bill, passed at the end of July, 2014, what would you propose to improve services to our veterans? I have a record of results for North Carolina veterans. They have made tremendous sacrifices for us, and I will continue to fight for them. We need to ensure our VA system works for all veterans. I am focused on cutting through red tape to open new clinics, hiring more doctors and nurses, and eliminating the backlog in disability claims. 5. From your perspective, what would be the most important elements of comprehensive immigration reform and why? We need to fix our broken immigration system. I voted for the bipartisan Senate immigration bill that ensures that everyone plays by the same rules. By passing commonsense immigration reform, we can secure our borders, boost our economy, and reduce our deficit. Thom Tillis (R) Sean Haugh (L) Occupation: Pizza delivery driver Age: 53 Website: Education and Training: Attended Tufts University, Medford MA. Background and Experience: I d represent all people, not just those who agree with me. I m the only candidate who will stop all war and stop spending more money than we have. 1. The Voting Rights Amendment Act is a bipartisan bill to restore voting rights protections that were diminished by a recent US Supreme Court decision. Will you vote for passage of the bill and restore the needed protections? Please explain. Yes, although I think it should go further and cover the entire country. Congress has Constitutional authority to regulate federal elections, and I would like that power to be used to standardize ballot access and other aspects of elections nationwide. 2. Will you vote to pass the Disclose Act which requires reporting of campaign contributions before rather than after elections? Please explain your position. Yes. This is another area where Congress has clear Constitutional authority, and should use that power to create transparency as well as limiting corporate electioneering. 3. What changes, if any, would you propose to the Affordable Care Act? It should be repealed. This has nothing to do with healthcare. It s just straight up corporate welfare for the insurance companies. 4. In addition to the Veterans Healthcare Bill, passed at the end of July, 2014, what would you propose to improve services to our veterans? First we need to stop all war so that we have fewer veterans, with fewer disabilities caused by war. I d refer to see VA reform driven by doctors and veterans than politicians. 5. From your perspective, what would be the most important elements of comprehensive immigration reform and why? I believe in open borders. We must stop the war on drugs, and stop interfering in the affairs of other nations. It s our warlike policies that create the conditions which cause people to seek a better life here. Page 4

5 US HOUSE - DISTRICT 3 Walter Jones (R) Marshall Adame (D) Website: marshall4congress.com Background: U.S. Commission on Wartime Contracting, Iraq U.S. DoD Contract Program Manager Department of State Official in Iraq Department of State Advisor to Iraq Minister of interior Airport Director, Basrah International Airport Iraq Four years, KAMAN Aerospace Egypt Logistics Lead Twenty-two years, Marine Corps Aviation Logistics Fourteen years Middle East experience Retired U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam Veteran Father of four including two Iraq/Afghanistan combat veterans. Married 44 years. Candidate Statement: Since 2001 America has experienced a transition, which has not served the rights, freedoms and dignity of the American people. Our Public School Institution has come under attack by those seeking to privatize and monetize education in America, resulting in a wider gap between the haves and have-not s and a re-segregation of our schools. Our energy sector, however important, has acquired unprecedented power and influence in our government, which stymies public debate. America s infrastructure is collapsing around us while millions who could be working to rebuild it are unemployed. I am running for Congress to help restore justice, to serve and to bring some common sense to Washington DC. Countywide REFERENDA City of Wilmington NC Constitutional Amendment Constitutional amendment providing that a person accused of any criminal offense for which the State is not seeking a sentence of death in superior court may, in writing or on the record in court and with the consent of the trial judge, waive the person s rights to a trial by jury. New Hanover County School Bonds SHALL the order authorizing $160,000,000 of bonds plus interest to pay the costs of constructing, improving, and renovating school facilities, specifically including, among other things, the construction and renovation of classroom facilities and district-wide improvements for safety, security, technology and building infrastructure, the acquisition and installation of furnishings and equipment, and the acquisition of land or rights-in-land required therefor, and providing that additional taxes may be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal and interest on the bonds be approved? City of Wilmington Street and Sidewalk Bonds SHALL the order authorizing $44,000,000 of bonds plus interest to pay the costs of acquiring, constructing, reconstructing, widening, extending, paving, resurfacing, grading and improving streets, roads and intersections; acquiring, constructing, reconstructing and improving sidewalks or walkways, curbs, gutters, drains, bridges, overpasses, underpasses and grade crossings; constructing and improving walking and bicycle trails and greenways; and providing related landscaping, lighting and traffic controls, signals and markers; and the acquisition of land, rights-ofway and easements in land required therefor, and providing that additional taxes may be levied in an amount sufficient to pay the principal and interest on the bonds be approved? Page 5

6 US HOUSE - DISTRICT 7 David Rouzer (R) Website: davidrouzer.com Background: David Rouzer is a proven conservative leader who will go to Washington to fight for the families and small businesses of Eastern North Carolina. David grew up in North Carolina and now lives in McGee s Crossroads just several miles from where his mother was raised on the family farm. Prior to starting his own business, David had been involved in public policy development and implementation, public relations, and legislative strategy for more than a decade. Candidate Statement: I am running for US Congress because I believe we have a small window of opportunity to turn things around in this country. Right now, we have a government that is too big, spends too much, taxes too much, and creates nothing but headaches for our small businesses and farm families. We must return to the Founding principles of individual liberty, economic freedom and a much more limited government, as well as get back to the moral and spiritual principles that made this country great. Jonathan Barfield, Jr. (D) Website: barfieldforcongress.com Background: Commissioner Jonathan Barfield, Jr. has been a resident of the New Hanover County since age one and graduated from New Hanover High School in He is the owner of Barfield & Associates Realty, LLC and has been a licensed Realtor since He served as president of the Wilmington Regional Association of Realtors in 2007, and was REALTOR of the Year in Commissioner Barfield is married to Laura Barfield and they have four daughters. His favorite pastimes are reading and golf. He has served as a New Hanover County Commissioner since being elected in November 2008, and being re-elected in November Candidate Statement: Proven, Trusted Leadership. John Maxwell says Everything rises and falls on Leadership. Page 6 As your 7th District Representative in Congress I pledge to: Bring new jobs and corporate investment into the district, support our teachers and public education system, work to secure federal funding for beach renourishment and inlet dredging, and I am committed to strengthening and supporting our military. I am a supporter of the Affordable Care Act as I believe that every American Citizen should have access to Affordable Health Care. Fully support agribusiness and bio-technology research and development, and Continue unwavering support of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid. J. Wesley Casteen (L) Website: casteen.org Background: Wesley Casteen is a lifelong resident of North Carolina and his family roots extend for seven generations. Wesley graduated from James Kenan HS and he received a degree in Accounting from Wake Forest University. He later graduated from law school at Campbell University and he received a post-graduate Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree in Taxation from the University of Alabama. For more than a decade, he has resided and maintained a professional practice in Wilmington. Wesley also authored a series of books, Musings of a Southern Lawyer, and he lectures frequently, including as an adjunct professor at UNC-Wilmington. Candidate Statement: More than 80% of Americans are dissatisfied with Congress. That number does not represent dissatisfaction with a single individual, law, or program. Instead, it demonstrates dissatisfaction with government generally. The current system identifies nearly every issue as us-versusthem: Democrat/Republican, Conservative/Liberal, Rich/Poor, Urban/Rural, etc. There is a tug-of-war between the legacy parties (i.e. Democrat and Republican) over who controls the purse strings and power of government. Many politicians are seemingly more concerned about their job security than they are about the American people. Politician should not be a career objective. The proper role of any political leader should be to work himself out of a job. The overriding objectives of government should be to educate

7 NC GENERAL ASSEMBLY CANDIDATES Members of the NC House and NC Senate adopt laws on issues that affect everyone in the state, from child care to standards for justice. Because the majority party controls drawing district lines, many districts are not competitive and only one candidate is on the ballot. NC SENATE - DISTRICT 8 Bill Rabon (R) Ernie Ward (D) Occupation: Veterinarian Age: 47 Website: ErnieWardNCsenate.com ernie@erniewardncsenate.com Personal Statement: Southeastern North Carolina has fallen behind. We re regularly losing teachers and jobs to South Carolina, but it doesn t have to be that way. I believe in valuing our teachers and our public education system, and building a business environment that will be able to compete for new jobs. I m looking forward to serving you in the State Senate. I m proud to be endorsed by the North Carolina Association of Educators and the North Carolina Voters for Animal Welfare. NC SENATE - DISTRICT 9 Michael Lee (R) Elizabeth Redenbaugh (D) Age: 46 Website: elizabethforncsenate.com Elizabeth@elizabethforncsenate.com Personal Statement: As a mom and former School Board member, I have seen firsthand how the dismantling of public education has affected our kids. I want to give all our children the best shot at their futures with a top-notch public education. Additionally, I want to see more jobs come to New Hanover County and protect our air, water and land. Sierra Club NCAE EMILYs List NC HOUSE - DISTRICT 18 Susi Hamilton (D) Occupation: Vice President of Business Development for Castle Branch, Inc.; Founder and CEO of Hamilton Planning Age: - Website: susihamilton.com electsusihamilton@gmail.com Personal Statement: It has been a privilege to serve the citizens of District 18 for the past four years, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve a third term. There hasn t been a day since I was first elected that I haven t worked towards the betterment of our region. We are constitutionally bound to provide a quality public education to all of our citizens, and it is imperative that we do so... n/a NC HOUSE - DISTRICT 19 Ted Davis, Jr. (R) NC HOUSE - DISTRICT 20 Rick Catlin (R) Betsy Jordan (D) Occupation: Real Estate Broker Age: 55 Website: betsyjordan.com votebetsyjordan@gmail.com Personal Statement: Betsy Jordan, the daughter of former Lt. Governor Bob Jordan, has extensive experience as a business leader in manufacturing, real estate, film production. She is a life/business coach and served twelve years on the Governor s Film Council. Betsy Jordan will strengthen public education, encourage economic growth that is respectful of the environment while expanding healthcare access and equal rights. NCAE Planned Parenthood SEANC Page 7

8 NEW HANOVER COUNTY LOCAL CANDIDATES County commissioners and other local officials set the policies that are closest to voters, including the school budget, zoning decisions, environmental health, and the local judicial system. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS (vote for 2) Page 8 DISTRICT ATTORNEY Ben David (D) Derrick Hickey (R) Skip Watkins (R) Patricia Spear (D) Occupation: Independent Insurance advisor/agent Age: 54 Website: patriciapear4nhcc.com patspear4nhcc@gmail.com Personal Statement: Preston and Patricia has been married for 32 years, moved to Wilmington in 1991, assists with seniors, disabled and Veteran issues. Can we continue living without a good educational system, high taxes, decreased quality of life, and loss of jobs? It s time to give the people a voice for their community with prosperity, dignity and a vision for the future! n/a Rob Zapple (D) Occupation: - Age: - Website: electrobzapple.nationbuilder.com zapple4commissioner@gmail.com Personal Statement: So many people I talk with - Democrats AND Republicans-are deeply troubled by the radical agenda and policies of the Republican majority in Raleigh. But not everyone realizes how dramatically what s happening at the state level will affect us here in New Hanover County. When the legislature cuts state funds to education, it s up to us here in New Hanover County to find money to pay for the education our children deserve... n/a BOARD OF EDUCATION (vote for 4) Janice Cavenaugh (R) Don Hayes (R) Ed Higgins (R) Occupation: Retired - 30 year as a law and business instructor and department chairman at Cape Fear Community College. Age: 66 Website: n/a ehiggins@ec.rr.com Personal Statement: During my tenure on the Board of Education, I have attempted to be the voice of reason. My years as an attorney taught me that the best way to accomplish a goal is often to seek common ground for compromise. I believe I have served the children, parents, and taxpayers of New Hanover County well. No specific endorsements other than that the citizens of New Hanover County have previously elected me 5 terms to the board. Bruce Shell (R) Tom Gale (D) Occupation: Realtor Age: 38 Website: TomGale.us Tom@TomGale.us Personal Statement: My wife is a teacher in Brunswick County. My daughter is in first grade and my son will be attending our schools, so I know the challenges facing our educators and I have a personal interest in making sure our schools are the best they can be. I will bring a fresh perspective and new energy to the board. Elizabeth Redenbaugh and Nick Rhodes, both of whom are former members of the NHC Board of Education.

9 Chris Meek (D) Occupation: Teacher Age: 48 Website: electchrismeek.net Personal Statement: Our children need and deserve the very best that Public Education has to offer. We are obligated to provide that for them. New Hanover County schools are great places for learning. The students need us to recruit and retain excellent teachers to insure that excellent education. We need to advocate locally to ensure the best for our schools and our children. New Hanover County Association of Educators Emma Saunders (D) COUNTY SHERIFF Jason Vaughn (R) Occupation: 16 years law enforcement, now Attorney Age: 41 Website: JasonVaughnforSheriff.com Personal Statement: My training, experience, and education far exceeds the other candidate. This county needs a strong, dependable leader and my ability to lead men and women in uniform began at a young age as a United States Marine. I have 16 years in the Law Enforcement arena with a vast understanding of the law and its practical application and enforcement... Numerous former and current law enforcement officers Ed McMahon (D) Occupation: Sheriff of New Hanover County Age: 54 Website: edmcmahonforsheriff.com chiefmcmahon@gmail.com Personal Statement: My mission is to protect and serve the citizens of New Hanover County by vigorously enforcing the law to the best of my ability. I am committed to the doctrines of Professionalism, Responsibility, Accountability and Integrity in the performance of my duties while looking for ways to turn the challenges that we face into opportunities to serve. n/a NON-PARTISAN JUDICIAL RACES Judges have tremendous power in our state. In many cases, they have the final say over policies that affect your life. The NC Constitution gives voters the power to elect judges. They run without party labels. Choose one candidate for each seat. NC SUPREME COURT CHIEF JUSTICE Mark Martin Occupation: Chief Justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court Age: 51 Website: mercedesauger@bellsouth.net Personal Statement: Experience Matters. No person has ever been elected as Chief Justice who did not first serve on the NC Supreme Court. I am the only candidate in this race who has served on the NC Supreme Court or written an appellate decision. I have served on the Supreme Court for almost 16 years and authored over 400 appellate decisions. Favorite Endorsements (1) Five former NC Chief Justices from both political parties (2) The NC Association of Educators (NCAE) (3) The North Carolina Advocates for Justice (NCAJ) Ola M. Lewis Occupation: Senior Resident Superior Court Judge, District 13 B Age: 49 Website: ola@votejudgeola.com Personal Statement: I am committed to fairness, impartiality, an independent judiciary and abiding by the Constitution. I will lead the Court by setting a standard of transparency, people-centeredness, and dedication to the rule of law. The Supreme Court will work more efficiently to answer substantial issues of Constitutional law. I respectfully ask for your prayers, your support and your vote. Favorite Endorsements n/a Page 9

10 NC SUPREME COURT ASSOCIATE JUSTICE (SEAT 1) Bob Hunter Occupation: Supreme Court Justice Age: 67 Website: Personal Statement: My judicial philosophy is to be fair to all who appear before me and do justice in the decisions I render. I am currently a Justice on the Supreme Court, after serving on the Court of Appeals and practicing law. I would appreciate your vote in November. Find out more about me at my website. n/a Sam J. Ervin IV Occupation: Judge, NC Court of Appeals Age: 58 Website: Ervin@ErvinforSupremeCourt.com Personal Statement: The law is the glue that holds society together. However, the legal system cannot work properly without fair, impartial, and independent judges. My tenure on the State Utilities Commission and the Court of Appeals demonstrates that I can decide the cases before me fairly and impartially without political or ideological bias, which is what citizens deserve and should expect. Favorite Endorsements NC Association of Educators Fraternal Order of Police Former Chief Justices Henry Frye, Burley Mitchell and Jim Exum. NC SUPREME COURT ASSOCIATE JUSTICE (SEAT 2) Eric Levinson Occupation: Superior Court Judge Age: 47 Website: Info@LevinsonforJustice.com Personal Statement: I have a unique combination of trial and appellate court experience because I have served as a Judge of the (1) District/Family Court; (2) Court of Appeals; and (3) Superior Court. I served as the Justice Attache to Iraq for the U.S. Department of Justice. My record demonstrates commitments to consistency; judicial restraint; and impartial adherence to the law. N.C. Fraternal Order of Police Hon. I. Beverly Lake, Jr., Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of North Carolina (ret.) Robin Hudson ; Associate Justice, North Carolina Supreme Court Age: 62 Website: info@robinhudson.org Personal Statement: B.A., Yale. J.D., UNC-CH. Over 38 years legal experience. Elected to Supreme Court 2006, to Court of Appeals First woman elected to the appellate bench without being appointed first. I ve decided thousands of cases fairly and impartially, without political or personal agenda. I always apply laws as enacted, if constitutional. Married, two adult children, one granddaughter. North Carolina Association of Educators North Carolina Police Benevolent Association North Carolina Association of Women Attorneys The Bottom Line: Vote! Photo courtesy of Appalachian Voices When weak regulation resulted in 30,000 tons of toxic coal ash spilling into the Dan River earlier this year, politicians finally took notice. But the General Assembly still let Duke Energy escape full accountability. It ordered Duke to clean up just 4 of its 14 leaking coal ash sites and let the company seek rate increases to pass the costs onto its customers rather than its stockholders. Political decisions affect your pocketbook, your health, your community. Vote! Page 10

11 NC SUPREME COURT ASSOCIATE JUSTICE (SEAT 3) Mike Robinson at Law in Private Practice for 34 years Age: 58 Website: www. votemikerobinson.com Personal Statement: Our State s highest court should have at least one member who has spent over three decades representing small businesses and businessmen and women. I will enforce the laws of this State consistent with our State and Federal Constitutions. I have been a servant leader both locally and state-wide. I appreciate your vote. Former North Carolina Supreme Court Chief Justice I. Beverly Lake, Jr. Fraternal Order of the Police Former North Carolina Supreme Court Associate Justice Robert Orr Cheri Beasley Occupation: Associate Justice, NC Supreme Court Age: 48 Website: JusticeCheriBeasley@gmail.com Personal Statement: It is an honor to serve on the Supreme Court of North Carolina since I am the only candidate for this seat with ANY judicial experience. With your support, I will continue to serve justice by applying the law fairly and impartially without undue favor as well as make decisions based upon NC law, the US and NC constitution. NC Association of Educators NC Police Benevolent Association NC AFL-CIO NC COURT OF APPEALS (SEAT 1) - Vote for 1 Because of a late vacancy, 19 candidates are running against each other to fill Seat 1 on the NC Court of Appeals. Marion Warren Occupation: District Court Judge Age: 48 Website: www. JudgeWarren.com Judgemarionwarren@yahoo.com Personal Statement: When starting my legal career twenty three years ago, I swore to defend the Constitution. I have never lost sight of this obligation and believe the rights and liberties of the individual must be protected. Always, I have worked to see the law applied fairly. Judges should be guardians of the rights and liberties guaranteed by due process of law. n/a Chuck Winfree Occupation: Self-employed attorney, owner of law firm with five employees- Age: 54 Website: n/a Personal Statement: Our best judges are the ones that remember that they are servants of the parties who come into their courts seeking relief. Judges who forget this undermine the public s confidence in and respect for our legal institutions. My professional career and service on the State Board of Elections have demonstrated diligence and fairness that would serve our citizens well on the Court of Appeals. n/a John M. Tyson Occupation: Judge of the North Carolina Court of Appeals ; Recall Judge, NC Court of Appeals, & 2014-present; Emergency Superior Court Judge, & 2014-present; Adj Professor, Campbell University School of Law, 1987-present.; Chairman of the North Carolina Ethics Commission Age: 61 Website: judgtetyson@embarqmail.com Personal Statement: I was elected to and served on the NC Court of Appeals for eight years, the only judge with this judicial experience. I promise to uphold the Constitution & apply the laws fairly and impartially. I do not believe in judicial activism, where judges create laws in rulings. I request your vote to return me to the Court of Appeals. 1. North Carolina Fraternal Order of Police 2. Supreme Court Justice Edward Thomas Brady 3. City of Fayetteville Mayor Nat Robertson Page 11

12 NC COURT OF APPEALS (SEAT 1) - cont d Elizabeth Davenport Scott Occupation: Litigation Partner with Williams Mullen Age: 54 Website: elizabethdavenportscott.com campaign@elizabethdavenportscott.com Personal Statement: Close to thirty years of experience in the practice of law will guide me in reaching sound and fair decisions that are grounded in the rule of law. My experience representing parties in commercial and business disputes will be particularly helpful in reviewing important legal issues affecting business and industry in the State. Please vote for me on November 4. Keith Kapp, Immediate Past President, NC State Bar Former U.S. Senator Lauch Faircloth My former law partner Tom Ellis State Auditor Beth Wood Tricia Shields at Hedrick Gardner Kincheloe & Garofalo Age: 54 Website: shieldsforjudge@yahoo.com Personal Statement: My service as law clerk to Chief Judge Hedrick at the NC Court of Appeals, and 27 years practicing law in our trial and appellate courts, has taught me that justice is served when judges apply the law fairly to everyone, regardless of background, wealth, political affiliations, race, gender or personal views. I have been endorsed by the North Carolina Association of Defense Attorneys (civil defense attorneys organization), as well as by the Past Presidents of that Association. Jody Newsome Age: 42 Website: newsomeforcoa@gmail.com Personal Statement: Proud son of retired U.S.C.G. officer and elementary schoolteacher. Former librarian and police officer. Law Clerk on both N.C. Appellate Courts. Attorney (14 years) for individuals, small businesses, and non-profits. Trial and appellate litigator in State and Federal Courts. Signed NCBA Resolution, agreeing to conduct campaign with professionalism and civility. Won t accept endorsements or contributions from PACs or interest groups. n/a Page 12 Marty Martin Age: 62 Website: ElectMartyMartinJudge.com Info@ElectMartyMartinJudge.com Personal Statement: Diverse legal and life experiences have prepared me to serve as a North Carolina Court of Appeals judge: Martin Law Firm - est See: MartinLegalHelp.com Wake County District Attorney s Office - Prosecutor North Carolina Court of Appeals - Law clerk - John Webb, Associate Justice N.C. Supreme Court who taught me about a judge s integrity, judgment, independence, toughness, and gentle humanity. Nan E. Hannah, Past President Wake County Bar Association and Tenth Judicial District Bar Walter E. Brock, Jr. Past President Wake County Bar Association and Tenth Judicial District Bar Hunter Murphy Age: 33 Website: HunterMurphyForJudge.com huntermurphy2014@gmail.com Personal Statement: Judges should not be politicians and politicians should not be judges. My wife, Kellie and I have four-year-old twins, Brayden and Eden and we are active members of Pinnacle Church. I am a Constitutional Conservative running to protect the role of the Judiciary and bring my diverse education and experience to the Court of Appeals. Thank you! Curtis Cochran, Republican Sheriff of Swain County Keischa Lovelace Occupation: N.C. Industrial commission deputy commissioner Age: 39 Website: lovelaceforcourtofappeals.com lovelaceforcourtofappeals@gmail.com Personal Statement: N.C. citizens deserve fair, impartial and competent judges who serve with integrity. As a Deputy Commissioner, I judge workers compensation cases and State tort claims. In my courtroom, everyone has a fair opportunity to present their cases and they are treated with dignity and respect. My decisions are based upon the law. Please visit my website for more information. North Carolina Advocates For Justice

13 NC COURT OF APPEALS (SEAT 1) - cont d Ann Kirby Occupation: Assistant Public Defender Age: 56 Website: n/a Personal Statement: Having served as a prosecutor and public defender, I recognize the importance of an objective understanding of both perspectives. I will review all aspects of each case to which I am assigned in order to make a correct, fair and impartial ruling based upon the facts and the law, without regard to status, wealth or position of the parties. n/a Abe Jones Age: 62 Website: campaign@voteabejones.com Personal Statement: Experience counts. I have served as both a prosecutor and defense attorney in criminal cases. I have also represented both plaintiffs and defendants in civil cases. For 17 years, I served as a Superior Court judge. Fairness, honesty, intellectual capacity, a working knowledge of the law, and a strong work ethic are qualities that I value and possess. Congressman G.K. Butterfield Rufus Edmisten, Former Attorney General of NC Don Vaughan, former Mayor of Greensboro Sabra Jean Faires Age: 58 Website: sabrajeanfairesforjudge.com sjfcommittee@gmail.com Personal Statement: My pledge to you is simple: I promise to treat everyone who comes before the court fairly, consistently, and only in accordance with the application of the law to the facts. Fairness and equal treatment have been the hallmarks of my 30+ year career that includes legislative, administrative, and private practice. I would be honored to receive your vote. Senator Fletcher Hartsell Senator Joel Ford Daniel Patrick Donahue Candidate did not respond J. Brad Donovan Occupation: Deputy Commissioner, NC Industrial Commission Age: 60 Website: Education and Training: Juris Doctor, jbdonovan2014@gmail.com Personal Statement: I have been a member of the bar for 25 years. Every day I have spent in public service. I spent 8 years on Staff Counsel of the Court of Appeals, writing over 600 proposed opinions for the Court. For the last 12 years, I have been hearing cases across the state, being assigned cases for the Commission. n/a Lori G. Christian Occupation: Wake Co. District Court Judge Age: 53 Website: ElectJudgeLoriChristian.com n/a Personal Statement: I have been a district court judge since 2007 and have served in every courtroom except the juvenile courts. However, as a lawyer, I represented juveniles in delinquency court and Wake County in abuse and neglect court. My excellent reputation and the fact that I m a highly rated judge clearly demonstrates that I have the ability to learn new and different areas of the law with ease. n/a Jeffrey M. Cook Betsy Bunting John S. Arrowood Age: 57 Website: John.S.Arrowood@gmail.com Candidate did not respond Candidate did not respond Personal Statement: My experience in the public and private sectors make me uniquely qualified to serve as a Court of Appeals Judge. I served on the Court of Appeals in 2007 and 2008 and authored 118 opinions. I have also severed as a Superior Court Judge. I have 23 years of experience in private practice in Charlotte primarily doing civil litigation. North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE); Equality N.C. Action Fund the PAC for Equality North Carolina; N.C. AFL-CIO Page 13

14 Valerie Johnson Zachary Age: 52 Website: Personal Statement: In 1987 I graduated from Harvard Law School cum laude and joined Kennedy Covington Lobdell & Hickman (now K&L Gates) in Charlotte. For the last 25 years I have practiced law with my husband Lee Zachary in rural Yadkin County, near Winston-Salem. I have had a wide breadth of legal experience and bring a different judicial perspective to the Court. n/a NC COURT OF APPEALS (SEAT 2) Bill Southern Occupation: District Court Judge Age: 34 Website: SouthernforJudge@gmail.com Personal Statement: My experience as a trial court judge and prosecutor provides me the valuable real world perspective needed on the Court of Appeals. I believe the role of a judge is to decide cases based upon what the law is and not what the law should be and that the efficient, predictable administration of justice is critical to North Carolina s economy. North Carolina Fraternal Order of Police Lucy Inman Occupation: Special Superior Court Judge Age: 53 Website: info@judgelucyinman.com Personal Statement: I am running for the Court of Appeals to make sure that every judge in our state treats every person fairly and with respect. As a trial judge, I see first-hand how courts affect families, individuals and businesses. I apply the law consistently, impartially, and with no political agenda. In every case. Citizens deserve no less from our courts. NC Association of Educators; NC Police Benevolent Association; AFL-CIO NC COURT OF APPEALS (SEAT 3) Donna Stroud Occupation: Judge Age: 50 Website: info@donnastroud.com Personal Statement: Unopposed for re-election. Professional background: Judge, Court of Appeals, elected 2006; Adjunct Professor, Campbell University School of Law, 2008 to present; District Court Judge, Wake County, ; Private practice of law, Education: Duke University School of Law, LL.M., Judicial Studies, 2014; Campbell University School of Law, 1988, J.D., magna cum laude; Campbell University, 1985, B.A., Government, summa cum laude. I appreciate all of the individuals and groups which have endorsed me and I cannot name favorites. NC COURT OF APPEALS (SEAT 4) Paul Holcombe Occupation: District Court Judge Age: 45 Website: judgeholcombe@gmail.com Personal Statement: As an elected District Court Judge, I have presided over thousands of cases over the last six years. I am the only candidate in this race who has presided over a criminal court, domestic court, child support court, domestic violence court or traffic court. I have the experience necessary to serve in this important role. I would appreciate your support. North Carolina Troopers Association Mark Davis Occupation: Judge, NC Court of Appeals Age: 48 Website: judgemarkdavis@gmail.com Page 14 For an online version of this guide, visit Personal Statement: Undergraduate, law degrees: UNC-Chapel Hill. Appeals Court judge since Decided approximately 600 extremely varied cases. Almost two decades previous legal

15 experience: private practice, Special Deputy Attorney General, General Counsel to the Governor. Proven record of fairness, independence. I treat all people equally. I follow the law with no political agenda. I oppose outside political money in NC judicial elections. North Carolina Association of Educators North Carolina Police Benevolent Association North Carolina Association of Women Attorneys NC DISTRICT COURT JUDGE - DISTRICT 5 (SEAT 1) Lindsey McKee Luther Occupation: Assistant District Attorney Age: 31 Website: lutherforjudge.com lutherforjudge@gmail.com Personal Statement: I have prosecuted a vast array of cases and managed a district court docket daily as a prosecutor. As a judge, I will continue to address cases fairly, with compassion, and an acute awareness of what cases mean both to victims of crime and to defendants. Every person entering the courtroom will be treated with my courtesy, respect, and consideration. Fraternal Order of Police - Lower Cape Fear Chapter Lodge 58 Kent Harrell in private practice Age: 44 Website: kentharrellforjudge.com kent@kentharrellforjudge.com Personal Statement: i have been practicing for eighteen years and have experience in every area of the law dealt with in District Court, not just one. District Court covers misdemeanor criminal cases and traffic tickets, all civil disputes involving less than $25,000.00, appeals from small claims court, custody, child support, property distribution, alimony, divorce, DSS Court, juvenile delinquency and restraining orders. Endorsed by the North Carolina Association of Women Attorneys. Highest ranking of contested candidates in the N.C. Bar Association survey of attorneys ( Recognized by the Pender County Board of Commissioners as the 2013 Pender Citizen Volunteer of the Year and recognized by North Carolina Lawyers Weekly as a 2014 Leader in the Law. NC DISTRICT COURT JUDGE - DISTRICT 5 (SEAT 2) Charles (Duke) Lineberry Age: 55 Website: dukelineberryforjudge.com duke@lineberrylaw.net Personal Statement: Over my 29 year career, including 14 years as an Arbitrator and Family Law Mediator, I ve successfully tried hundreds of cases in every division of District Court, particularly family law. Accordingly, I have the technical skills, knowledge, and temperament needed to be an effective judge. As Judge, I will render decisions that are fair and impartial to all parties. Lower Cape Fear Republican Women s Club New Hanover County Republican Party Melinda Crouch Occupation: District Court Judge Age: 56 Website: n/a melindacrouchforjudge@gmail.com Personal Statement: I pursued a law degree because I was inspired by teachers especially my high school social studies teacher. I loved learning about the law, and history and politics. I believe that being a lawyer is one of the most honorable professions one can pursue. I pursued becoming a judge because it would allow me even greater opportunity to serve my fellow man... North Carolina Association of Women Attorneys No Photo NC DISTRICT COURT JUDGE - DISTRICT 5 UNCONTESTED RACES Seat 3- James H. Faison III Candidate did not respond Seat 4 - Chad E. Hogston Candidate did not respond Page 15

16 Democracy North Carolina 1821 Green Street Durham, NC Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No Durham, NC Independent, Non-partisan Voter Guide For Voters In New Hanover County EARLY VOTING TIMES AND LOCATIONS 1. The Elections Training Center 230 Government Center Drive, Suite 38, Wilmington Oct & Weekdays 8:00 am - 8:00 pm Oct. 25 Saturday 8:00 am - 8:00 pm Nov. 1 Saturday 8:00 am - 1:00 pm 2. Main Library 201 Chestnut Street, Wilmington 3. Senior Resource Center 2222 South College Road, Wilmington Additional locations: 4. Northeast Library 1241 Military Cutoff Road, Wilmington 5. Carolina Beach Town Hall 1121 N. Lake Park Blvd., Carolina Beach Oct Monday - Friday 10:00 am - 7:00 pm Nov. 1 Saturday 8:00 am - 1:00 pm DO I NEED A PHOTO ID TO VOTE? NO! When you go to vote, an elections official will ask if you have one of the kinds of photo IDs that will be required in 2016, but you do not need to show it this year. The new law is being challenged in court. Until 2016, the only voters who need to show ID at the polls are the new or first-time voters in a county whose registration could not be finalized because of some incomplete information on the registration form. When they go to the polls, voters may show any photo ID or a non-photo ID document, such as a utility bill with the voter s address, a bank statement, or a notice, permit, or letter from any government agency. It s generally smart to carry a ID document with you.