Northwest Georgia Politics

Meetings | Candidates | Candidate events | Financial reports | Dixon & Clemons

Upcoming meetings

>Friday-Saturday/GOP state convention, Columbus. Agenda: Elect statewide delegates and alternates to the Republican National Convention.

>May 24/Floyd County GOP Breakfast Club, Western Sizzlin, 801 Martha Berry Highway, 8 a.m.

>June 5/Post-legislative breakfast sponsored by chamber: Updates on the recent legislative session are set for 8:30 a.m. Thursday, June 5, at The Catering Co. at the Palladium, sponsored by the Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce. Scheduled to attend: Sen. Preston Smith and representatives Rick Crawford, Katie Dempsey, Barry Loudermilk and Barbara Massey Reece. Cost: $10 per person. For more, go to www.romega.com

Who's in for primary, general election

>For a look at statewide candidates and other legislative and congressinal districts, click here: Secretary of State's Office

U.S. House, District 11:

>Republican, Phil Gingrey

>Democrat, Bud Gammon

U.S. House, District 9:

>Republican, Nathan Deal

>Democrat, Jeff Scott

State Senate, District 31:

>Republican, Bill Heath

>Democrat,  Tracy Bennett

State Senate, District 52: Unopposed

>Republican, Preston Smith

State Senate, District 54: Unopposed

>Republican, Don Thomas

State House, District 11:

>Democat, Barbara Massey Reece

>Republican, Betty Brady

State House, District 12:Unopposed

>Republican, Tom Graves

State House, District 13:

>Democrat, Bob Puckett

>Republican Katie Dempsey

State House, District 14:

>Republican, Barry Loudermilk

>Democrat, Rick  D'Arezzo

State House, District 15 (Primary July 15):
>Republican, Jeff Lewis

>Republican, Paul Battles

State House, District 16:

>Democrat, Rick Crawford

>Republican, Bob Culver

Floyd County Sheriff

>Democrat,  Tim Burkhalter

>Republican, Steve Hulsey

District Attorney

>Demorcat, Leigh Patterson

>Republican, Dan Morgan

Tax Commissioner

>Republican, Kevin Payne

>Democrat, Ron Morris

Clerk of Courts (Primary July 15)

>Democrat, John Harkins

>Democrat, Barbara Penson

Probate court Judge

>Democrat, Steve Burkhalter

>Republican, Barry Smith

Chief Magistrate Judge Unopposed

>Democrat, Chris Mathis

Coroner Unopposed

>Democrat, Barry Henderson

County Commission, Post 2Unopposed

>Republican, Garry Fricks

County Commission, Post 3

>Republican, Irwin Bagwell

>Democrat, Jerry Jennings

County School Board, District 2 Unopposed

>Republican David Cox

County School Board, District 3

>Republican, Brian Barcomb

>Democrat, Bryan Shealy

County School Board, District 5 Unopposed

>Democrat, George Bevels

Candidate events

All items in Candidate Events must be open to the public in order to be listed.

May 13/Penson campaign bowling tournament set: The Friends of Barbara Penson for Clerk of Superior Court will host a fund-raiser couples bowling tournament on Tuesday, May 13, at 7 p.m. at  Classic Bowling Lanes in West Rome. $35 per person or $70 per couple. Prizes for both best and worst bowlers. Details: 706-290-0924 or 770-877-0869, or go to  www.barbarapenson.com.

May 17/Republican sheriff's candidate Steve Hulsey will have a fund-raiser golf tournment at Kraftsman Golf Course.  The four-person scramble will begin at 2 p.m.  Cost is $50 per person or $200 per team. 

June 7/The Friends of Barbara Penson for Clerk of Superior Court will host a fundraiser at the VFW Hall on U.S. 27 from 7 to 10 p.m. (doors open at 6:30). The theme: A sock hop. Scheduled to perform: "Young Elvis and the Blue Suedes." Details:  www.barbarapenson.com.

What's next in Campaign 2008:

Here's a look at the elections calendar for the rest of 2008:

>June 16: Last day for new or lapsed voters to register to vote in the July 15 primary.

>July 7-11: Advance voting begins for the state primary.

>July 15: State primary.

>July 28-Aug. 1: Advance voting for primary runoff (Aug. 5).

>Aug. 5: Primary runoff.

>Sept. 8-12: Advance voting for special election (SPLOST).

>Sept. 16: Special election (recommended date for latest Floyd County SPLOST projects proposal).

>Oct. 6: Last day for new or lapsed voters to qualify to vote in the November election.

>Oct. 27-31: Advance voting for Nov. 4 general election.

>Nov. 4: Election Day.

>Dec. 2: General election runoff (if needed)

First quarter financial reports

Sheriff Tim Burkhalter:

-Contributions as of March 31: $35,672, including $7,600 raised from Jan. 1 to March 31. Expenditures to date: $2,286. Cash on hand: $33,376

-Contributors: $1,000 each: Nancy Y. Smith; $300 each: William Stoll (attorney); $250 each: Anderson & McFall law firm; Big Time Products; Capitoline Products; former state Rep. Buddy Childers; Cook & Connelly law firm; Corgroup (Zaxby's); Curtis Doyle; Easy Money (pawn shop); Bob Finnell (attorney); Hoyt Firm (law firm); Joe Howell Motors; John Ivester (Realtor); Mary Louise Lever; Brian McWhorter (attorney); Gail Miller; James Owens; Nicholas Powers; Sherold Salmon; State Mutual Insurance; Thomas Tarpley; Rome City Commissioner Buzz Wachsteter; $125 each: Bo-Rome Inc. (Bojangles franchise);

-Expenditures: Mostly supplies, rentals, mailings (stamps), etc.

Steve Hulsey, Republican candidate for sheriff

>Contributions: $1,220. Expenditures: zero. In the bank: $1,220  

>Contributors: Jack Brown, $500 Tommy Dunagan, $300 Hoyt Brown, $120   Rest under $100

Floyd County Tax Commissioner. Kevin Payne

>Contributions: Two contributions of $1,000, one from Mary Louise Payne and from state Sen. Preston Smith; $500 from Paul  Smith's campaign fund, from Lee Treadway and from Jim Little; $250 from former Commissioner Jim Ford and from Will Enloe; $150 from County Commissioner Chad Whitefield and from Commissioner Eddie Lumsden and county School Board member Teresa Lumsden.

>Expenditures: $550 to ABC Design (campaign consulting); $300 to Pregnancy Center (dinner).

>Other: Payne, a Republican, has no opposition at this time.

Floyd County Commission:

>Jerry Jennings, chairman: $504 in his account as of March 31. Jennings, of Post 3, is a Democrat.

>Garry Fricks, Post 2: No contributions or expenditures as of March 31

Floyd County Board of Education:

>Bryan Shealy, chairman, District 3:  Cash on hand: $80.

>Mark Hufstetler, District 2: No contributions, expenditures; no new term.

>George Bevels, vice chair, District 5: No contributions or expenditures.

Sen. Bill Heath, R-Bremen: Through March 31, the west Georgia senator reported total contributions of $76,541, including $4,900 raised between Jan. 1 and March 31. Expenditures were at $10,981, leaving Heath with $65,561 in his campaign account> Heath | Contributions | Expenditures

Sen. Preston W. Smith, R-Rome, reports having $101,747 on hand as he begins his fourth Senate campaign. Contributions as of March 31: $121,633 including $8,975 collected between Jan. 1 and March 31. Expenditures: $19,886. Contributions  | Expenditures

State Sen. Don Thomas of Dalton has $65,617 in his campaign account. Thomas reported contributions of $270,606, including $19,800 given between Jan. 1 and March 31, state records show. His expenditures for the period: $205,089 including $11,502 this period. Contributions | Expenditures

Rep. Rick Crawford, D-Cedartown: Between Jan. 1 and March 31, the Cedartown Democrat received $1,300 in contributions and posted $140 in expenditures. He had $7,160 in his campaign account as he seeks a second term> Crawford | Contributions | Expenditures

Rep. Katie Dempsey, R-Rome: She had $9,184 in her account as of March 31, in part thanks to $1,800 in contributions between Jan. 1 and March 31. Dempsey's major expenditures this quarter most were for Web design and related services> Dempsey  | Contributions  | Expenditures

Rep. Tom Graves reports $45,673 in campaign account: State Rep.  Tom Graves, R-Ranger, showed $6,550 in contributions between Jan. 1 and March 31 while expenses were set at $8,614. All old, he has $45,673 in hand as of March 31.> Graves. | Contributions | Expenditures

Rep. Jeff Lewis has nearly $120,000 in bank for re-election bid: State Rep. Jeff Lewis has $119,736 in his campaign account as he seeks a new term in the state House. Lewis reported contributions of $131,278, including $31,725 given between Jan. 1 and March 31, state records show. His expenditures for the period: $11,542. Contributions   |   Expenditures

State Rep. Barry Loudermilk had $22,697 in his campaign account for a third run to the House District 14 seat as of March 31. Loudermilk, R-Cassville, posted $8,383 in contributions between Jan. 1 and March 31 and $35,336 overall. His expenditures for the quarter: $1,738. (Corrected)

>Loudermilk  | Contributions  | Expenditures

State Rep. Barbara Massey Reece, D-Menlo: Reported $250 in contributions (Temple-Inland) this period. Cash on hand: $5,982. Expenditures: Mostly on reimbursements for legislative duties> Reece | Contributions  | Expenditures

District Attorney Leigh Patterson: Contributions of $7,797 include $4,800 this period (Jan. 1-March 31). Expenses: $21. Cash on hand: $7.776. Contributors: Harry Pierce, $2,000; State Mutual Insurance, $2,300; Robert Walther, $500.

> Patterson | Contributions |

Dan Morgan, Republican, running for district attorney: Morgan reported $4,390 in contributions and $591 in expenditures between Jan. 1 and March 31. He had $3,799 in the bank.

>Contributors: $1,000: Fred Taylor; $1,000 inkind, Caldwell Printing; $540 inkind, Old Havana Cigar Co.; $500, Fred Simpson and Joe Baldwin; $400, Virgil Haney; $400 Joe Angebrandt; $400, James Satcher; $100, Steven McDowell.

>Expenditures: $549, Uncle John's BBQ.

>Morgan

John Harkins, Democrat, running for clerk of Superior Court: Total contributions of $13,708 including $11,822 collected between Jan. 1 and March 31. Expenditures: $374 (Babcock Agency and for rent of civic center). Cash on hand: $13,334.

>Contributions: $2,000 from Harry Pierce of Big Time Products; an in-kind contribution of $2,276 from State Mutual Insurance for hosting his kickoff event; $555 in kind from the candidate (stamps, envelopes, etc.); $500 from Blackstone/OTR LLC and $500 from John Ivester; $250 from Bo-Rome and from former state Rep. Buddy Childers; $200 from Gurnett Cobb, Simpson, Hoyt Firm, Leroy Matthew and Ronnie Kilgo; $500 from Yevette Kilgo; $125 from Janice McClelland; $234 in-kind from Sally Jo Barnett; $100 from Marian Baird and $100 from Michael Baird.

-Announced competitors: Barbara Penson, also a Democrat. Another Democrat is expected to enter the race. Republicans might not challenge this race.

Superior Court Judge J. Bryant Durham has filed his first quarter campaign report; Durham is up for re-election this year. Durham posts $1,031 in previous contributions and none between Jan. 1 and March 31 of this year. He also reports no expenditures, giving him $1,031 in his campaign account just a few weeks before qualifying begins. Click Durham

Dixon & Clemons: Your Hometown Political Connection. Click D&C

Candidate declarations

Republican Betty Brady running for District 11 House seat

(Campaign release) Betty Brady, licensed Real Estate Broker , has qualified for the office of GA. House seat 11. She  will face incumbent Barbara Reece in the November general election.  Ms. Brady has qualified as a Republican.

Ms. Brady has been a resident of Chattooga County since 1977. She is a small

business owner/operator.  She serves on the Georgia Commission on Women, having been appointed by Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue in 2005, becoming the first resident of Chattooga County ever to be appointed to a statewide commission. Ms. Brady's efforts and passion for fighting Georgia's escalating drug problems had caught high-level attention, resulting in theappointment.

Ms. Brady co-founded the Chattooga County Citizen's Meth Task Force, a

non-profit organization which has been instrumental in raising awareness and prevention through community billboard signage, and various educational materials to benefit Chattooga's youth, as well as others. Ms. Brady authored a resource book in 2005, titled  "Meth Survivor-Jennifer's Story," which has been widely circulated and focuses on recovery hope for drug addiction victims.

She was appointed by Chattooga Commissioner Mike Dawson in 2008 to represent Chattooga County in Region One MHDDAD, which studies regional needs and reports to the state panel for the purpose of improving our state resources.

Ms. Brady is married and the mother of two. She has one grandchild and

several 'heart-adopted' children.  If elected, Ms. Brady pledges to be readily available to the citizens and to work closely with other officials to bring more industry to our area and to improve our standards of living. She is particularly concerned with drug problems and  its overall impact on family and state resources.

She can be reached at bbrady0553@windstream.net or at 706.859.7875.

Jerry Jennings to see new term on County Commission

(Campaign release) Jerry Jennings, Chairman of the Floyd County Board of Commissioners announced his intention to seek the approval of Floyd County citizens to be re-elected to his fourth term on Post 3, Floyd County Commission, citing his experience in the prudent management of the taxpayers’ dollars while providing exemplary services.  Jerry promises to continue that course for the citizens of Floyd County. Among his accomplishments Jerry cited the following:

• Since 1999 the county commission reduced the millage rate for seven years. The current millage rate is the lowest it’s been in 14 years.
• Effective management/oversight of the Floyd County water department.
• Development of the Northwest Georgia Regional Water Resources Partnership.
• Development of the Floyd County Crisis Management Team.
• Creation of the Floyd County strategic plan with department goals reviewed annually.
• Involvement of the County in economic development initiatives – Aviation and Avionics Program – Coosa Valley Technical College, purchase of industrial park real estate, industrial recruitment and industrial expansion support.
• City/County partnerships and teamwork on a variety of projects: State Mutual Stadium, Floyd County Health Center, road projects, Town Green, Chief John Ross Pedestrian Bridge and recreation projects.
• Environmental concerns: renewed comprehensive plan, greenspace purchases, bike/walking trail expansions.
• Development of Judicial Services committee with an emphasis on improved efficiency through information sharing.
• Improved relations with local, state and federal elected officials.
• Development of leadership training for department heads and emerging leaders in Floyd County.
• Responsive to citizen concerns and complaints

Jerry intends to continue these initiatives with a special focus on water resources, improved effectiveness of county government operations, responsible use of taxpayer dollars, continued improvement of the economic vitality of Floyd County and providing services for those who need assistance.

Jerry is completing his 35th year as a professor of psychology at Berry College and his 27 year as a licensed professional counselor. He is a consultant to business, industry, educational and non-profit organizations assisting them in leadership development, teamwork, strategic planning and communications skills training. Jerry is on the Board of Directors for the Boys and Girls Club of Northwest Georgia, and the Coosa Valley Regional Development Center. He serves as a Disaster Mental Health volunteer with the Red Cross and on the advisory board of the Coosa River Basin Initiative.

Steve Hulsey qualifies to run for Floyd County sheriff

(Campaign release) Steve Hulsey is a lifelong resident of Floyd County growing up in the Rome area.   In 1976, he joined the United States Air Force and specialized in law enforcement.  While in the military, Steve met his wife, Melissa.  They have been married for 27 years and have three children and three grandchildren. 

After serving 6 years in the military, Steve and his family returned to Rome in 1982.  He continued his career in public safety by joining the Floyd County Sheriff’s Department. During his tenure with the Sheriff’s Department, he worked his way through the ranks from Jail Officer to Jail Administrator, performing duties in all areas of the department.  His accomplishments while at the department are extremely important to him and his family. They include:

• P.O.S.T. certified as a Jail Officer

• P.O.S.T. certified as a Deputy Sheriff

• Worked for and achieved the rank of Sergeant

• Worked for and achieved the rank of Jail Administrator

• P.O.S.T. certified in Jail Management

• P.O.S.T. certified Instructor in Defensive Tactics

• P.O.S.T. certified Instructor in General (basic law enforcement)

In 1990, Steve decided to put his education and knowledge to use at a higher level.  He transferred to the Floyd County Water Department as the Utilities administrator.  In his 17 years as administrator, Steve has had the responsibility to oversee a multimillion-dollar system and a yearly operating budget of 5 million dollars.  Under his guidance, the department received the highest bond rating in its history.  During this time, Steve has received repeated recognition from the current and former County Commissioners for outstanding budget control and efficient, effective management of the department; thus, saving the residents of Floyd County dollars.

Steve has continued to stay active in law enforcement during his many years with the water department.  From 1990 through 1995, Steve served with the City of Rome Police Department Reserve Unit as the Assistant Commander. He then joined the Sheriff’s Department Reserve Unit in 1995 until November 2004 as a Sergeant.  In 2005 he went to work part time for Rockmart Police Department where he is currently employed.

Using his experience and unique leadership qualities, Steve will:

• Get back to the basics

• Implement tighter control on spending and accountability to stay within the allotted budget approved by the County Commissioners

• Continue his “hands-on” work ethics and department involvement.

Hulsey says he looks forward to this campaign, which will be run on "truth, facts and record."

Loudermilk seeking third term in District 14

(Campaign release) In 2004, when businessman Barry Loudermilk announced his run for State House District 14, he stated that he would stand on principles, not politics. His campaign centered on the idea that “people” should be the focus, not “power.” During his four years in office, Loudermilk has held strongly to these ideas.

In 2005, Loudermilk hit the ground running as a freshman legislator from northwest Georgia, by introducing and passing several key pieces of legislation, including repealing the requirement to submit fingerprints to get a Georgia drivers license, a measure which had been unable to be repealed through either chamber during the previous 10 years.

Loudermilk has continued to stand on key conservative principles such as less government, lower taxes, personal responsibility and liberty and justice, throughout his four years in the State House. Co-founder of the conservative 216 Group, he is recognized as one of the top conservative leaders under the Gold Dome. Loudermilk has sponsored legislation to protect private property rights, protect privacy rights of citizens, provide more accountability of government and reduce the tax burden on the citizens of Georgia.

During the 2007 session, Loudermilk worked closely with the Georgia Supreme Court to give more accountability and oversight of children under the custody and care of the Department of Children and Family Services (DFCS). This legislation protects the rights of parents and ensures that DFCS operates in the best interest of the welfare of the child, not the government.

In 2008, Loudermilk worked to pass a bill that officially recognizes February 12 as “Georgia Day,” the official birthday of our state.  On the 275th anniversary of our State, February 12, 2008, Governor Sonny Perdue signed Loudermilk’s bill into law, creating the first official Georgia Day.

The 2008 session also produced legislation that significantly overhauls Georgia’s law regarding the use of red light cameras. Loudermilk’s long battle to protect the Constitutional right of due-process culminated in a joint effort between Representative Loudermilk and Lt. Governor Casey Cagle working together on House Bill 77.

While standing firm on principles has resulted in key pieces of legislation making their way to the Governors desk, it has also had its price. Loudermilk was forced to give up his position as Deputy Majority Whip in 2007 when he would not compromise on certain legislative issues. His open opposition to Speaker Richardson’s Great Plan also had its price under the Gold Dome. “The principles of a legislator are more defined in what he opposes than in what he passes,” stated Loudermilk, about his principled opposition to legislation supported by leadership.

Dempsey seeks second term representing Greater Rome

(Campaign release) Noting her commitment to provide “quiet, principled and professional leadership for Rome,” Rep. Katie Dempsey announced Saturday she is seeking re-election to the Georgia House of Representatives.

Dempsey is seeking her second term representing the 13th District, which includes all of the City of Rome as well as a small part of unincorporated Floyd County. 

Dempsey’s opponent started his campaign several days ago with a stinging attack against current Georgia government.  Dempsey quietly brushed aside his attacks by noting that Governing magazine named Georgia one of the best-managed states in the country.

“Some people run for political office to protest about the things that bother them,” said Dempsey.  “I believe that the most effective representative is one who works with quiet, patient resolve to get something done for the community. 

“Georgia has the highest test scores in our state’s history and we appropriated the most money ever for public education this year.  We are leading the nation in efforts to control illegal immigration.  We have passed a landmark local transportation financing bill that will provide over a billion dollars in new road funding by the middle of the next decade.  And just this year, we passed the most sweeping reform of healthcare in a generation,” said Dempsey. 

Dempsey noted the well-publicized disagreements at the Capitol about a handful of key issues such as tax reform.  She said there were many more areas of agreement than disagreement but she also said it was clear the state’s leadership learned valuable lessons moving forward.

“We accomplished a great deal this session: we passed the State Infrastructure Bank to fund local transportation; for the first time, we provided money – over $60 million – to support trauma centers in Georgia, while dramatically overhauling the healthcare Certificate of Need rules to make healthcare more accessible and cost less; we provided millions in property tax relief and sales tax holidays while providing the highest school funding in Georgia history,” said Dempsey.

“However, the leadership also experienced real growing pains this year, and all three learned hard-but-good lessons.  One of those is that no politician’s agenda – be it Speaker Richardson, Governor Perdue or Lt. Governor Cagle – is more important than the people’s needs.  I quietly but strongly disagreed with leadership when they put forward items like the Water Plan or the first draft of the Speaker’s tax plan, both of which endangered Rome’s interests.  I have also joined the call for a return to a more professional tone,” said Dempsey.

“I do not agree with my opponent who is trying to overplay this situation and use it to convince Romans that the way to move forward is to throw the baby out with the bathwater, ignore the remarkable reforms and changes since 2004, and return to the failed policies of the past,” said Dempsey.  

“We will return to a quieter tone in Georgia government, but we will not return to the failed policies of the past that left Georgia last in SAT scores, first in traffic congestion, and with one of the worst illegal immigration problems in the country.  We will keep Rome and Georgia moving forward.

“This is not a 40-day-a-year job.  It is a 365-day-a-year commitment. I pledge to continue to do the work of the next eight months to serve as your elected representative and to begin the journey that will lead to another term as your Georgia State House Representative.”      

Puckett running for House District 13 seat, representing Greater Rome

(What follows is Bob Puckett's announcement speech Monday afternoon in front of Rome City Hall) Citizens of Rome and Floyd County, the failure of the state legislature to address the critical needs of our community and the state is well documented.

The question before the voters is: Do you believe that Georgia can and must do better?  If so, will you support those seeking public office who share your belief?

I believe it is time to return to leadership that puts the advancement of community over political opportunity. There must be a return to leaders who view public service as an obligation to help lift everyone up, and move everyone forward.

Georgia can and must do better.

In announcing my candidacy for state representative District 13, it is my intention not only to make that statement, but to act upon it.

As a people, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment in our history.

We have abundant resources, if properly managed; we have tremendous potential, if properly educated; and our people have a will to work, if their jobs are protected and their enterprising spirit unleashed.

Unfortunately the barriers we face now have been erected by those who should be in the forefront of assisting us.  What passes for government in Atlanta these days is the advancement of personal political pursuit at the price of public good.

During the coming months, I will offer my views on the issues we face together, but there will be none more important than this; if elected, I will be committed to the support of any idea that makes Georgia a better, more secure place to live, provides people a better life, and offers our children more hope.

I can also assure you that I will not sit idly by and allow the Georgia House of Representatives to be abused without protest. To allow any legislative body to become so dominated undermines not only the purpose of the institution, but threatens public trust and confidence in it.

An element of leadership that in my judgment has been sorely lacking is the willingness to speak truth to power. If elected I intend to speak with both the good manners my mother taught me and the courage I see everyday in the lives of the people of this community.

I believe that the time to act is now. I believe that Atlanta must stop being a place where good ideas go to die.

If you believe that Georgia can and must do better, then join us and let’s bring about a brighter future for everyone.

Photo from Puckett's campaign announcement, taken by one of his team members. The campaign is being managed by Ruth Demeter of Rome.

State Sen. Preston Smith to seek fourth term

(Campaign release) State Sen. Preston W. Smith, R-Rome, announced his intention to qualify and run for re-election to a fourth term in the Georgia Senate for District 52. Smith, who has represented the district since first being elected in 2002, said that he looks forward to continuing to talk with the voters and running on a record of proven results.

“We have accomplished a lot in the last six years but we have even more to accomplish in the future,” Smith said upon his announcement. “I will continue to work to reduce the size of government, cut taxes and be an independent thinker for the hardworking people of Bartow, Floyd and Gordon counties.  Now, more than ever, we need a strong leader who is not afraid to fight for our district and be an independent voice for our citizens."

In 2002, Smith defeated incumbent Democrat Richard Marable by 54% to 46%. In 2004, Smith was re-elected with 64% of the vote. In 2006, Smith was re-elected to a third term with 64% of the vote.

Senator Smith serves as Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, and Secretary of the Retirement Committee.  He is a member of the Appropriations and Health and Human Services Committees as well as the Reapportionment and Redistricting Committee and the Legislative Services Committee. He served as Gov. Sonny Perdue's Administration Floor Leader in the State Senate in his first term in office. 

Sen. Smith has been appointed as the chairman of the legislative oversight committee of the statewide Public Defenders Standards Council overseeing Georgia's new criminal defense system for the Indigent. He is the also chairman of the Appropriations subcommittee overseeing the budgets of the judicial agencies.  

Active in community affairs, Sen. Smith has served on several non-profit boards including the Northwest Georgia Sexual Assault Center and DisABILITY Link and has taught courses as an adjunct instructor at Georgia Highlands College.

Sen. Smith is a graduate of Leadership Georgia and a graduate of the Coverdell Leadership Institute.  In 2004, Senator Smith was named by Georgia Trend magazine to their "40 Under 40" list of the 40 most influential Georgia leaders under the age of 40.  In 2005, the Atlanta Business Chronicle recognized Sen. Smith on their list of "Who's Who" of Georgia leaders in the fields of law and business. In January of 2006, Sen. Smith was named to the list of the "100 most influential Georgians" by Georgia Trend magazine.  In 2007, Sen. Smith was again named by Georgia Trend magazine to their list of ‘most notable’ Georgians.

For more information about the Smith campaign, visit PrestonSmith.org.

Burkhalter lauches re-election bid for Floyd sheriff

(Campaign release) Floyd County Sheriff Tim Burkhalter launched his campaign for re-election with “Dinner and A Movie” at MB’s on Tuesday. Guests enjoyed barbecue and fixings at the western- themed event; 3:10 to Yuma was the featured movie.

The event, which netted more than $15,000, was sponsored by 60-plus supporters. Prior to the event, the Committee to Reelect Tim Burkhalter had $33, 375 on hand.

Burkhalter spoke to a full house about his four years of service and the campaign promises made and fulfilled during his term. In addition to his constitutional duty to serve warrants, run the courts and the jail, he has made good on the promise to improve the professionalism in the sheriff’s office. Burkhalter has significantly reduced staff turnover which is now under 10 percent. The office has been state-certified and is now working toward national accreditation. Once accomplished, the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office will be a member of an elite few. Approximately 4 percent of sheriff’s offices around the country reach and attain national accreditation. Burkhalter has been under his allotted budget all four years of his term.

Burkhalter also promised during his campaign to make the office more positive in the community. He has established programs designed to help the community. Staff members volunteer their time at night and on the weekends to help make these programs a success. He gave credit for the success of his administration to a “fine” command staff and the support of the community.

Burkhalter stated he is looking forward to serving Floyd County for another four years and hopes the voters will continue to place their confidence in him and his office.

Barcomb running for District 3 seat on Floyd County Board of Education

(Campaign release) Brian Barcomb, a Coosa resident, announces his candidacy for the District 3 position on the Floyd County Board of Education. Barcomb is in the process of filing the necessary paperwork with the state and county. He will run as a Republican.

Barcomb, 36, graduated from West Rome High School in 1990. Barcomb attended Shorter College on an athletic scholarship and, upon graduation, Barcomb began a career in the insurance industry. He has been employed, in various capacities, for the same Fortune 500 Company for more than 10 years.

Barcomb is married to Lindsey Abrams Barcomb who's employed by Ear, Nose, and Throat of Northwest Georgia. They have 2 daughters, Bailey and Kileigh.

The Barcombs are members of First Baptist Church Lindale. He is the director of the youth T-ball, basketball and flag football leagues at First Baptist Church Lindale.

He is also a member of the Floyd County Republican Party and the Rome/Floyd County Young Republicans.

Barcomb cites the following reasons for his desire to serve our community:

• to bring a new face and fresh ideas to the public school system.
• to bring more community involvement into the county schools.
• to promote more student involvement in extra-curricular activities.
• to foster better communication between the school board and parents, teachers, and the community.
• to find alternative ways to obtain and provide vital resources for county schools.

“I am committed and dedicated to being a new voice to the Floyd County Board of Education. As the parent of two children, I share many of the same beliefs and concerns as other Floyd County parents," he said.

"I want all students to grow into well round adults. This starts inside and outside the classroom. I believe it will take a collaborative effort of the school board, schools, and parents to determine the role we take for the future of our children. I look forward to sharing my vision and values with the people of Floyd County.  

"My campaign will represent the average students and parents that are the families which make up the Floyd County School System. I believe our community should work together to maximize all resources which will give our children a better tomorrow.”

Note: Board Chairman Bryan Shealy currently holds the District 3 seat and he plans to seek a new term.

Cox to seek District 2 set on the Floyd  County Board of Education

(Campaign release) David Cox of Shannon announces his intentions to seek a seat on the Floyd County Board of Education.  “For many years, the Model district has been represented by outstanding school board members.  Today, I am announcing my candidacy for a seat on the Floyd County Board of Education representing the Model district,” stated Cox.

Cox is running for the Model/Johnson seat being vacated by Mark Hufstetler. He is still deciding whether he'll run as a Democrat or Republican.

Cox, 54, is a retired educator who worked in both secondary and postsecondary arenas, most recently at Coosa Valley Technical College.  He possesses 17 years of experience working in public schools as a teacher and coach in Northwest Georgia and over 12 years as an administrator at the technical college.  Dr. Cox earned a Bachelor of Science, Master of Education, and Specialist in Education degrees from Jacksonville State University.  In 1996, Dr. Cox completed his Doctor of Education degree from the University of Georgia.

Dr. Cox and his wife, Glenda, are the parents of Judson and Jason Cox both 1996 graduates of Model High School.  Dr. Cox and Glenda have five grandchildren who will attend Floyd County schools this fall.  The Coxs are members of Enon Baptist Church.

Dr. Cox intends to qualify for the Floyd County Board of Education election on April 28th. For more information about David Cox’s campaign, please fill free to contact him at (706) 234-0467.

Bagwell officially 'in' Floyd County Commission Post 3 race

(Campaign release) Irwin Bagwell is officially announcing his candidacy for the Post 3 seat on the Floyd County Commission in the 2008 election. Bagwell has filed the necessary paperwork to begin fundraising and forming his campaign committee. He will run as a Republican.

A native of Floyd County, Bagwell has extensive business experience and will use that experience as a Floyd County commissioner.   A fifth-generation Floyd County farmer, he currently is in business with his brother, Charles. They grow corn and soybeans on more than 1.500 acres in Vann’s Valley near Cave Spring. Previously, with their father, John, they operated Bagwell Dairy, which began in Floyd County in 1930. The Bagwells ceased the dairy operation in 2006.

Bagwell’s platform: Be fiscally responsible; governmental transparency; and listen to the citizens of Floyd County

Bagwell was elected to serve on the Floyd/Polk County U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Administration Committee from 1989 through 2007.  He often served as chair or vice chair.  Bagwell is a member of numerous trade organizations related to the profession of  agriculture.

Bagwell served on the original Unified Land Development Code citizen

committee that met from 1996-1998.

Bagwell served on the Rome/Floyd Planning Commission from 2002 through

2007.  In 2007, he was vice chair. While on the Planning Commission, he chaired the Rome/Floyd Comprehensive Update Committee.

Bagwell was an honor graduate of Darlington in 1980. In 1984, he obtained a

Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Georgia. He has been married to Susan White Bagwell for more than twenty years. Susan is employed as a kindergarten teacher in the Floyd County School System. Their children, John and Will, attend Floyd County schools. The Bagwells are members of The First Baptist Church of Lindale.

Harkins officially enters Floyd Clerk of Courts race

(Campaign release) John Harkins is announcing his candidacy for the office of Clerk of Floyd Superior Court for the 2008 election.  Harkins, a Floyd County native, has been busy campaigning since filing his paperwork with the election office in October.  However, he made it official last Thursday night at a reception/fundraiser held in his honor at the State Mutual Insurance Co. corporate offices.

“I have served the citizens of Floyd County for 32 years and have served in a supervisory and administrative capacity during the majority of my career. During my tenure with Floyd County, I have developed a good working relationship with the staffs of all the offices within the Courthouse and have also been closely associated with the Clerk of Court’s Office. I am knowledgeable in the operation of the Clerk’s Office, its responsibilities, and the impact the office has on the operation of our court system,” Harkins told the crowd of about 100 supporters.

 If given the opportunity by the voters, Harkins will strive to:

• Continue the tradition of accurately maintaining the records of the Superior Court of Floyd County.
• Keep the Clerk’s Office efficient and helpful to the people.
• Be fiscally responsible with the taxpayers’ dollars.
• Bring the office into a new era of attentive, courteous, and professional customer service.

“If you will honor me with your vote, I will repay that honor with my best. I look forward to serving you,” stated Harkins.

Harkins’ campaign committee has hit the ground running, raising in excess of $13,000 thus far in his bid for Clerk of Court.  With two additional fundraisers planned for April, Harkins’ committee is still hard at work.  A golf tournament at Stonebridge Golf Club is scheduled for April 8 and a party/fundraiser featuring the local band, Flashback, is set for April 25th at the Rome Civic Center.   

In addition to his experience with Floyd County, Harkins also has been a licensed real estate agent since 2003. He is a member of the Greater Rome Board of Realtors, the Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce, the Noon Optimist Club of Rome, the Floyd County Democratic Association, and he is also a Scottish Rite and York Rite Mason.

Harkins and his wife, Robbie, live in the Kingston Road area of Floyd County, and Robbie is a kindergarten teacher with the Floyd County School System. They have two children, Karen and Scott. Karen is a student at the University of Alabama School of Law and Scott is a student at Georgia Highlands College.

>Candidate's Web site

Penson seeking Floyd clerk of courts post

Barbara H. Penson is running for the office of Clerk of Floyd Superior Court as a Democrat. An employee of the Floyd County school system, Penson was born, raised and educated in Floyd County and attended Armuchee schools while living in Texas Valley.  Her family moved to Bartow County and she attended the junior and senior year there, graduating from Cass High.

She began her career with Southern Bell Telephone Co., Credit Bureau of Rome, and the Georgia Department of Labor. Since 1979, she has worked with the Floyd County Schools Superintendent’s office. She also worked for 28 years at Sears.

She graduated from Shorter College with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. She was married for 40 years to the former Rev. Donald Wayne Penson (deceased 2005), who pastored Rehoboth Baptist Church in Cave Spring, Snow Springs Baptist Church in Adairsville, Live Oak Baptist Church in Cave Spring, Community Chapel Baptist Church in Rome, Connesena Baptist Church in Adairsville, Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in Kingston.  The couple had three children and six grand children.

An active member of Shorter Avenue Baptist Church for more than 20 years, Penson joined the Rome Noon Optimist Club in 1998 and has served on several committees since. She also has served as president of the Floyd County Association of Educators, and is a member of the state and national associations.

Melissa Pyle is serving as treasurer of the Campaign to Elect Barbara H. Penson.

Rome pilot Bud Gammon, a Democrat, challenging Gingrey

Pilot Bud Gammon of Rome is planning to run against U.S. Rep. Phil Gingrey for the 11th District seat in Congress this fall. Gammon informally announced his intention to run at a meeting of area Democrats. The next step was his announcement on the Webcast radio show "Kudzu Vine." (Hear the show archive: Listen)

His campaign Web site, www.budgammon.us, continues to come together. The "About Bud" page shows Gammon just turned 57 on Sunday (the day he declared his candidacy on Kudzu Vine). He's a 1969 graduate of East Rome High and was a won a congressional nomination to the U.S. Air Force Academy. He spent more than six years on active duty with the Air Force and 2.5 years on reserve duty.

Gammon lists these issues on his site: "Iraq, bring them home; economy, immigration, health care" with more updates to come. The site also has a number of presets for contribution, how to volunteer, social networking and related information.

Gammon is the only opponent from either party to announce a bit to oppose Gingrey. The Marietta Republican is completing his third term in Congress and is running fourth a fourth two-year term.

Payne announces candidacy for Floyd tax commissioner

(Campaign release) Kevin Payne, who recently was sworn-in as Floyd County’s Tax Commissioner, is officially announcing his candidacy for the 2008 election. Payne, who took over as tax commissioner upon the retirement of Jim Ford, has filed the necessary paperwork to begin fundraising and form his campaign committee. He will run as a Republican.

“I would like to thank Commissioner Jim Ford for his leadership and service to Floyd County for the past 15 years. Having served as Jim’s Chief Deputy, I have seen the progress that has been made, and I am eager to continue to improve this office for the people of Floyd County,” Payne said.

A native of Floyd County, Payne has extensive business experience and will use that experience to make the Tax Commissioner’s office more customer friendly and fiscally disciplined.

“Growing up in the family business, Rome Seed & Feed Store, I learned many leadership and budgeting skills. After graduating from the University of Georgia with a degree in Business Administration, I managed businesses ranging from a Fortune 500 company to a small local business.

Prior to becoming Tax Commissioner, I was the General Manager for Gold Kist Inc., Rome Seed & Feed Store and Basic Materials Inc.  From all of this experience, I have learned that personal relationships and customer service are what matter the most,” said Payne.

Starting now, and if given a full-term by the voters in November, Payne’s platform will be to:

• Improve customer service and wait times of the tag and tax office.

• Create a customer friendly, safe and secure website, where taxpayers can access tax information as well as make online payments.

• Allow taxes and fees to be paid with credit cards, pending approval by the city and county.

• Continue to work with the city and county school boards and board of commissioners to improve the tax collection and assessment process to benefit the people of Floyd County.

• Improve the parking and accessibility of the Tag/Tax office for our customers.

Payne is an active member of the Rome community. He is a member of the Seven Hills Rotary Club, Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce, West Rome Baptist Church and the Floyd County Republican Party. He is a graduate of Leadership Rome, a United Way Cabinet Chairperson and a mentor in the Rome City Schools. Payne is also a member of the Georgia Association of Tax Officials.

Payne is married and has one son. 

“I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve the community where I grew up. This community has entrusted me with so much, and I am proud to be able to give some back. My door is always open, and I look forward to working with the citizens of Floyd County as our county continues to grow and prosper,” stated Payne.