2011 Monroe County Voter Guide

Municipal Primary Election – May 2011 Page 1 of 69

2011 Municipal Primary Election Voters Guide League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania

League of Women Voters of Monroe County (C) Copyright 2011 LWVPA – CEF, Monroe County LWV

Polls are open 7 A.M. to 8 P.M. You may vote as long as you are in line by 8 P.M. This Voters Guide may be taken into the voting booth. FOR ELECTION INFORMATION Contact your County Board of Elections—Monroe (570) 517-3165, Pike (570) 296-3426. Or call the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania Citizen Information Center, which also provides election information. CALL TOLL FREE: 1-800-692-7281, or visit our web site at www.palwv.org. Election information, absentee ballot applications and other forms are available to be downloaded at www.votespa.com ABOUT THIS GUIDE The material in this Guide was compiled by the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania Citizen Education Fund and by the Monroe County Chapter of the League of Women Voters. This material may not be altered or reprinted without the permission of the League. Each candidate's reply has been printed as submitted, except to use standard abbreviations and by editing from the bottom when a candidate's reply exceeded the word limit—this is denoted by // appearing in the text. The candidates listed are those whose names appear on the ballot as of March 23, 2011. They are listed according to their ballot order. Additional information about judicial candidates and voter information including “Polling Place Lookup” can be found by going to www.smartvoter.org and typing in your address and zip code. PURPOSE AND POLICY OF THE LEAGUE The purpose of the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania-Citizen Education Fund /LWV Monroe County is to promote political responsibility through informed and active participation in government. The League is nonpartisan: it does not support or oppose any political parties or candidates. Nothing in this guide should be construed as an endorsement of any candidate by the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania-CEF or the LWV Monroe County. ABSENTEE VOTING/ VOTERS WITH DISABILITIES Registered voters who are ill, disabled, or will be absent from the municipality on Election Day may vote by absentee ballot. Absentee ballot applications are available at most public libraries and can be downloaded at www.votespa.com or you may call your County Board of Elections. Completed applications for civilian absentee ballots must be received by the county Board of Elections by 5 P.M., Tuesday, May 10. Completed civilian absentee ballots must be received back at the Board of Elections by 5 P.M. on Friday, May 13, 2011. If an emergency arises (unexpected illness or business trip) after the Tuesday application deadline, call your county Board of Elections for information on


emergency absentee voting. Proof of emergency may be required. An emergency application and ballot can be obtained and voted by 5 P.M. on Friday, May 13. Any disabled voter having questions regarding the accessibility of a polling place should consult the county Board of Elections by phone or online. WRITE-IN VOTING Information for writing in the name of a person who is not on the ballot will be available at the polling place. ELECTION DAY PROBLEMS If your right to vote is challenged at the polls on Election Day and the problem cannot be resolved at the polling place, the judge of elections at the polling place should telephone the County Board of Elections. The problem may be resolved by phone if your name appears on the county records. If it does not and you want to try to resolve the problem, you can go in-person to the county Board of Elections where a judge from the Court of Common Pleas will be on duty to resolve election problems. Alternatively, you can ask for and vote by provisional ballot. If it is later determined that you were eligible to vote your ballot will be counted. You will be given instructions on the process and how to determine if your vote was counted. IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR NEW VOTERS If you are a new voter or if you are voting at a polling place for the first time then you must bring your voter ID card or a photo ID such as a driver's license, student ID or some other form of Federal or State government issued ID. Some forms of non-photo ID are also acceptable such as a firearm permit, current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, or government check. If you do not have any acceptable ID you must be allowed to vote by provisional ballot. ON-LINE VOTERS GUIDE The Voters Guide and other useful information for voters can be found on the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania Homepage: www.palwv.org. *CERTIFICATION NOTE* As of the publication date of this guide, the slate of candidates listed below is accurate based upon the Pennsylvania Department of State’s Bureau of Elections unofficial ballot.

The League of Women Voters of Monroe County

Want to get involved?

Have you found this information useful? Do you believe that an informed voting citizenry is important to a healthy community, that a grassroots organization can make a difference? If so, become a member in The League of Women Voters of Monroe County. We provide an annual Government Directory listing all elected officials, provide


voter registration drives, sponsor informational and educational activities for schools, government officials and the public. We also conduct programs, such as “How to Run for Public Office” our annual Legislative Breakfast, informative workshops on Marcellus Shale, redistricting, a health department, education and school budgets. The Monroe County Chapter of the League is part of a national, grassroots, non-partisan, volunteer organization which functions at three levels: local, state and national. Lobbying is focused only on issues after members have studied the options and arrived at a consensus on government’s role in the solution or service. The LWV works to affect public policy and to encourage the participation of citizens in making decisions about their government. Membership is open to all citizens of voting age. For information on the League of Women Voters of Monroe County, call Maria Wieand, President at 570-656-1864. Questions regarding the Voters Guide should be addressed to Martha Carbone, Monroe County Voters Guide Editor, 570-236-1321. Find more information about the League on the web: National LWV Web Site: http://www.lwv.org Pennsylvania LWV Web Site: http://www.palwv.org Monroe County LWV Web Site: http://www.palwv.org/monroe Eastern Public Library web site: http://monroepl.org JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR COURT (Vote for 1) Term: 10 year Salary: $178,914 JOB DESCRIPTION: The Superior Court is one of Pennsylvania's two statewide intermediate appellate courts. This court, which was established in 1895, reviews most of the civil and criminal cases that are appealed from the Courts of Common Pleas in the Commonwealth's 67 counties. The Superior Court consists of 15 judges who serve 10-year terms. The president judge of Superior Court is elected to a five-year term by his or her colleagues. �A huge volume of appeals flow to Superior Court from the trial courts. Generally, appeals are heard by panels of three judges sitting in Philadelphia, Harrisburg or Pittsburgh. The court often is the final arbiter of legal disputes. Although the Supreme Court may grant a petition for review of a Superior Court decision, most such petitions are denied and the ruling of the Superior Court stands. QUESTION: Because of some public concern about the amount of money being spent on statewide judicial elections, would you support an amendment to the Pennsylvania Constitution changing the method of selecting statewide judges to a merit selection process? Why or why not? REPUBLICAN


Vic Stabile Middlesex Carlisle Website: http://stabileforjudge.com D.O.B: 9/14/1957 EDUCATION: 1979, SUNY Stonybrook, B.A.; 1982, Dickinson School of Law, J.D. OCCUPATION: Attorney QUALIFICATIONS: Almost 30 years trial and appellate experience; Appellate Judicial Clerk; Deputy Attorney General; Partner, Dilworth Paxson LLP; Recommended by PA Bar Assn. based upon “solid” appellate experience and “strong intellect.” ANSWER TO QUESTION: Yes, if a true merit selection process would provide fair opportunity for well qualified people to be considered for judicial office. At present, neither election nor merit selection is a panacea for selecting judges. REPUBLICAN Paula A. Patrick Ward 34 Div. 34, Philadelphia Website: www.judgepaulapatrick.com D.O.B: 1/28/1968 EDUCATION: 1993, Thurgood Marshall School of Law, J.D. 1990, Bennett College, B.A.—Political Science Magna Cum Laude OCCUPATION: Judge of the Court of Common Please—Philadelphia County QUALIFICATIONS: Common Pleas Court Judge, 7 ½ years; Trial lawyer 10 years; former adjunct faculty at LaSalle University; former instructor at the Gerry Spence’s Trail Lawyers College; 2009 Woman of the Year Award by Coalition of Hope Inner-City Empowerment; 2009 Partner of Peace Award, 2002 Preserve the Heritage Award Commitment to Community Service ANSWER TO QUESTION: No I would not support it. I believe in a democracy—government by the people and for the people. All Pennsylvanians should have the right to vote for any public official, especially judges. If there is a “merit-selection” process for choosing judges, who decides on the judges selected? It would only be a select group of politically connected individuals with very little interest in diversity or fairness. DEMOCRATIC David N. Wecht Indiana Township, Pittsburgh Website: www.wecht2011.com D.O.B: 5/20/1962 EDUCATION: 1984, Yale B.A.; 1987 Yale J.D. Summa Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa. National Merit Scholar. Notes Editor, Yale Law Journal. Law Clerk, 1987-88, U.S. Court of Appeals, D.C. Circuit. OCCUPATION: Common Pleas Judge QUALIFICATIONS : Judge since February 2003 (former Administrative Judge, Family Division). “Highly Recommended” by Pennsylvania and Allegheny County Bar Associations. Endorsed by Pennsylvania Democratic Party, Allegheny and Philadelphia Labor Councils, FOP Lodge 91, Professional Firefighters Local 1. Register of Wills, Allegheny County 1998-2003.


ANSWER TO QUESTION: Reasonable people disagree. On the one hand, appointment of judges would eliminate problems posed by campaign fundraising, especially large corporate contributions now permitted by the U.S. Supreme Court. On the other hand, our Constitution should not lightly be amended, particularly where amendment would disenfranchise Pennsylvanians. Those who would alter our Constitution carry a heavy burden. While I am not yet persuaded, I have an open mind and believe the issue merits candid and thoughtful discussion. JUDGE OF THE COMMONWEALTH COURT (Vote for 1) Term: 10 years Salary: $178,914 JOB DESCRIPTION: The Commonwealth Court is one of Pennsylvania's two statewide intermediate appellate courts. This court, which was established in 1968, is unlike any other state court in the nation. Its jurisdiction generally is limited to legal matters involving state and local government and regulatory agencies. Litigation typically focuses on such subjects as banking, insurance and utility regulation and laws affecting taxation, land use, elections, labor practices and workers compensation. Commonwealth Court also acts as a court of original jurisdiction, or a trial court, when lawsuits are filed by or against the Commonwealth. The Commonwealth Court is made up of nine judges who serve 10-year terms. The president judge is chosen by his or her colleagues for a five-year term. The court generally decides cases in three-judge panels and sits in Philadelphia, Harrisburg and Pittsburgh. QUESTION: Because of some public concern about the amount of money being spent on statewide judicial elections, would you support an amendment to the Pennsylvania Constitution changing the method of selecting statewide judges to a merit selection process? Why or why not? REPUBLICAN Paul P. Panepinto Ward 34, Div. 34, Philadelphia Website: www.judgepanepinto.com D.O.B.: 6/25/1949 EDUCATION: 1971, Villanova University, B.A.; 1979 Villanova University, M.A.; 1976 Widener University, J.D. OCCUPATION: Judge QUALIFICATIONS: Received the highest recommendation from the Pennsylvania Bar Association. Served for 20 years as a judge handling all major complex litigation cases (jury and non-jury) as well as criminal and family court matters. ANSWER TO QUESTION: Merit selection limits the involvement of the people to choose their judges. The present system gives everyone the chance to participate. This process


has problems but I believe candidates should be able to run without raising money. They should do so on their own and with the support of the media and a public debate to spread the message to voters who would then be more informed about the candidates. REPUBLICAN Anne Covey Upper Makefield Twp. New Hope Website: www.coveyforjudge.com D.O.B.: 11/04/1959 EDUCATION: 1981, University of Delaware, B.A. with Departmental Honors; 1984, Widener University School of Law, J.D. Cum Laude OCCUPATION: Attorney, Law Firm Founder QUALIFICATIONS: Extensive Commonwealth Court experience. Clerked for President Judge Craig. First woman Pennsylvania Labor Relations Board Member. Practice labor and employment law. Written extensively, including book The Workplace Law Advisor. ANSWER TO QUESTION: I believe Pennsylvania residents should continue to have the right to select appellate court judges. There is no assurance that an appointive process will not include the kind of political negotiation and dealing most Pennsylvanians oppose. I have full confidence in the Pennsylvania voters to carefully consider each candidate’s qualifications and make the best judgment. Pennsylvania need not replace elections with back-room deals, but rather rigorously enforce a strong code of ethics and conduct. DEMOCRAT Kathryn Boockvar Doylestown Twp. D.O.B.: 10/23/1968 Website: www.boockvar.com EDUCATION: 1993 American University, Washington College of Law, J.D.; 1990 University of Pennsylvania, B.A.; 1996 Lancaster Mediation Center. OCCUPATION: Attorney QUALIFICATIONS: Advancement Project, Senior Attorney, 3 years; Boockvar & Yeager, Partner, 11 years; Legal Services Attorney, 3 years; Only Democratic Commonwealth Court candidate recommended by the Pennsylvania Bar Association; Rising Star—Super Lawyer. ANSWER TO QUESTION: Having spent the last three years working for the voters of Pennsylvania, I believe voters deserve a say in who represents them in every branch of government, including the judiciary. I support campaign finance reform, including limits and greater disclosure. I would also like to see a better system for educating the public about candidates, the courts, and why these courts matter in peoples’ lives, and will affect the lives of their children and grandchildren. DEMOCRAT Barbara Behrend Ernsberger Pittsburgh Website: www.ernsbergerforjudge.com D.O.B.: 8/16/1951


EDUCATION: 1973, University of Pittsburgh, B.A. cum laude; 1976, Duquesne University School of Law, J.D. OCCUPATION: Lawyer QUALIFICATIONS: I am a practicing attorney in workers’ compensation, consumer, election and zoning law. (34 years). I have won landmark cases for injured workers and consumers. I was Commissioner, Pittsburgh City Planning, 4 years ANSWER TO QUESTION: I would not support merit selection because elections involve the public and also educate the aspiring judge. When I ran for the Commonwealth Court in 2009, I learned about Marcellus Shale in Clinton County, public safety issues in Philadelphia, and concerns about bias in the Courts across the state. The participatory and educational value of the electoral process outweighs the public concern about the money being spent on Judicial Elections. JUDGE OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS (Vote for not more than two) QUESTION: Do you have specific suggestions for improving the administration of justice in Monroe County? All candidates for Judge of the Court of Common Pleas are cross-filed under both the Republican and Democratic Party. Biographical information and response to the question appear according to the order candidates will appear on the ballot under the Republican Party slate. Only candidates’ names appear under the Democratic Party slate in ballot order. REPUBLICAN David Williamson Stroudsburg Website: www.WilliamsonForJudge.com D.O.B.: 5/16/1969 EDUCATION: 1991, DICKINSON COLLEGE, B.A.; 1995, WIDENER UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW, J.D. OCCUPATION: ATTORNEY QUALIFICATIONS: 16 YEARS LEGAL EXPERIENCE IN CRIMINAL & CIVIL JURY AND NON-JURY TRIALS, ALL AREAS OF FAMILY COURT, REAL ESTATE, MUNICIPAL & ZONING MATTERS, AND APPEALS TO PENNSYLVANIA COMMONWEALTH, SUPERIOR & SUPREME COURTS. PROVEN COMMUNITY DEDICATION THROUGH INVOLVEMENTS. ANSWER TO QUESTION: I WOULD LIKE TO SEE A REORGANIZATION OF FAMILY COURT MATTERS WITH THE DEDICATED ASSIGNMENT OF ONE JUDGE TO A PARTICULAR FAMILY SO THAT ALL OF THE LEGAL MATTERS THAT COME BEFORE THE COURT AFFECTING THAT FAMILY MAY BE HEARD BY THIS SAME JUDGE, IF POSSIBLE. I WOULD, ALSO, LIKE TO SEE THE CREATION OF AN


ACTIVE CASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM THAT ADVANCES CIVIL CASES MORE EXPEDITIOUSLY, INCLUDING ADDITIONAL TRIAL TERMS, IF NECESSARY. REPUBLICAN Janet Marsh Catina Hamilton Township Website: WWW.CATINAFORJUDGE.COM D.O.B.: 4/7/1962 EDUCATION: 1984 Muhlenberg College, BS Political Science and Accounting; 1987 Dickinson School of Law, J.D.; 2010 Lehigh University, MBA OCCUPATION: Prosecutor – Monroe County District Attorney’s Office; Law Office of Janet Marsh Catina QUALIFICATIONS: Prosecutor/Assistant District Attorney 10 years; Private practice of law 24 years; Glifford Gilliam Leadership Award; United Way Campaign Chair; Mediator ANSWER TO QUESTION: Yes, I do. Currently, criminal and family law matters consume much of the Court’s time. Streamlining the process by early assignment of judges to matters would provide better opportunities for case management and increase efficiency by having one judge familiar with the matter handle all facets of the case. Additionally, the judiciary has many underutilized technological tools available which would create efficiencies in the administrative aspects of case management. REPUBLICAN Gerard J Geiger Stroud Township No response REPUBLICAN Joseph McDonald Stroudsburg Website: www.facebook.com/JosephMcdonaldforJudge D.O.B.: 8/10/1957 EDUCATION: Bloomsburg University BA ’79; University of Akron JD ‘86 OCCUPATION: Private Practice Attorney since 1986 QUALIFICATIONS: President—Monroe County Bar Association 2006; Solicitor: Chestnuthill Township – Since 1992; Wilson Borough Zoning Board – Since 1989; Numerous alternate solicitorships; Leadership Positions: Greater Pocono Chamber of Commerce; Fitzmaurice Community Services; Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Gilbert; // ANSWER TO QUESTION: Growth in criminal and civil actions (2,141 and 12,683 in 2009 respectively) present challenges and opportunities to timely decide cases. As one of the two most junior judges, I would welcome the priorities set by the new President Judge and recommend the following: 1. A daily Motions Court Judge who could make same day decisions on uncontested motions and contested motions where no lengthy hearings are required. 2. A case management system where all pre-trial pleadings, discovery and motions deadlines are determined from the outset. //


REPUBLICAN Steve Higgins Hamilton Township Website: [email protected] D.O.B.: 7/15/1962 EDUCATION: 1985, Seton Hall University, B.A.; 1991, Seton Hall University School of Law, J.D. OCCUPATION: Attorney-at-Law QUALIFICATIONS: 20 years experience in broad range of law most often heard in our courts. 10 years as a family court judicial hearing officer. 5 years as a Special Public Defender. Solicitor for several local agencies and non-profit organizations. // ANSWER TO QUESTION: By continuing to modernize court services, the administration of justice will be improved to allow for more transparency. The public needs easy access to court records and proceedings. A computerized calendar system will keep cases on schedule avoiding backlogs. Where possible, cases should be submitted to mediation instead of trial. The One Family, One Judge, approach where family cases are presented in a single court will allow the same judge to hear all matters involving a particular family. DEMOCRATIC Candidates are cross-filed. See info under Republican Party slate. Steve Higgins David Williamson Joseph McDonald Janet Marsh Catina Gerard J Geiger COMMISSIONER (Vote for not more than 2) Term: 4 years JOB DESCRIPTION: Three County Commissioners (no more than two elected from the same political party) supervise: voter registration and elections, assessment of real estate property, human services, veteran affairs, juvenile detention facilities and prisons, and land use planning. They can establish housing and redevelopment authorities and conduct community development programs. They maintain homes for the aged and may support libraries and community colleges. They set county tax rates and adopt budgets for county offices and local Courts of Common Pleas. QUESTION: What do you consider the most serious problem in Monroe County and how would you propose solving it? REPUBLICAN


John Moyer Shawnee on Delaware Website: www.moyerforcommissioner.com D.O.B.: 2/14/1947 EDUCATION: 1968, Bloomsburg State University, B.S.; 1970, 1974, The Pennsylvania State University, M. Ed., Ph.D OCCUPATION: President, Bannerstone Management, LLC a property management consulting firm. QUALIFICATIONS: More than twenty years experience managing eleven homeowner associations with 100+ employees and budgets in excess of $10 million. Responsible for budgeting and all immediate and long-term operating and financial decisions. ANSWER TO QUESTION: The county needs new businesses and high paying jobs to keep taxes in check. I will champion development of the necessary infrastructure and work with area business people and elected officials at all levels to streamline the permitting process for new and expanding businesses. Meanwhile, the county needs a leader with common sense and business experience who can make the difficult financial and administrative decisions that have been ignored for the past few years. REPUBLICAN Joan Berdela East Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 4/22/1956 EDUCATION: 1978, Montclair State University, NJ, B.S. Business Administration-Accounting OCCUPATION: Self-employed Accountant/Tax Consultant QUALIFICATIONS: 32 years of accounting/tax experience - Kirk, Summa & Co., CPA, George Royle, Consumers Land Abstract, Young & Haros, & others; volunteer past/present - St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, Stroudsburg Little League, YMCA, Shepherd’s Maternity House; President - PHL-Pocono Chapter// ANSWER TO QUESTION: The ballooning county debt of over $90 million is definitely the most serious problem. Monroe County keeps borrowing money to pay its liabilities. Imagine borrowing money to pay your credit card bill. Eventually, it catches up with you. This irresponsibility cannot continue without the “Taxed Enough Already” taxpayers ultimately bearing the burden. I would tighten our belts, return to 2008 spending levels, and pay down the debt. The commissioners must be responsible stewards of the taxpayers’ money. REPUBLICAN Charles A Garris East Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 9/15/1937 EDUCATION: East Stroudsburg University 1964- B.S. Education OCCUPATION: Manufacturer Representative QUALIFICATIONS: Mayor of East Stroudsburg; Member of East Stroudsburg Borough Council; Pocono Medical Center Board of Directors; Pocono Medical Center Board Chairman; Pocono Health Systems Board Chairman


ANSWER TO QUESTION: Taxes- As a Commissioner, run the Monroe County Government at the lowest possible cost. Water & Sewer- I serve on the Brodhead Creek Regional Authority which serves Eastern Monroe County to help make the much needed improvements to our water & sewer systems. REPUBLICAN Rodney Yetter Saylorsburg Website: www.Rodneyyetter.com D.O.B.: 5/4/1948 EDUCATION: Pen Argyl High School, 1966; USMC, Vietnam Veteran; East Carolina University, Two years Accounting OCCUPATION: Production Engineering and Quality Control, Independent Consultant QUALIFICATIONS: Owner/Operator of two Apparel Manufacturing plants, 18 years; Stroudsburg School Board, Past President, eight years; Hamilton Township Auditor, serving second six-year term; Contract Negotiator/Arbitrator for Employers ANSWER TO QUESTION: Problem: Heavy tax burden on residents without a sufficient tax base to support it The solutions are: 1. Eliminate tax increases; 2. Reorganize/Restructure county government to cut spending and decrease incurred debt; 3. Work with state legislature for property tax relief for property owners and seniors; 4. Market the Poconos great recreational resources to increase tourism and support businesses throughout the county; 5. Recruit labor intensive businesses to bring new jobs to the county for positive economic growth REPUBLICAN Ed Kmetz Stroudsburg Website: www.edkmetz.com D.O.B.: 12/17/1960 EDUCATION: 1983 Drexel University, B.S. Materials Engineering. Post-graduation courses including Japanese, HR, finance, teaching, system design, business networking. OCCUPATION: High-Tech Small Business Owner, 8.5 years. QUALIFICATIONS: 28+ years experience in engineering, sales, executive management locally, nationally, internationally. Proven ability to lead & work productively with others of all backgrounds, beliefs, strengths, opinions. www.edkmetz.com ANSWER TO QUESTION: Our staggering county debt approaching $100,000,000 including $24,000,000+ in scheduled interest is the most serious problem. As county commissioner, reducing debt will be my absolute priority, freeing dollars currently wasted as interest for constructive use instead. I will introduce “Economic Gardening,” a 100% successful solution in other municipalities, empowering county government to deliver corporate-caliber business tools to help grow existing businesses at little cost… which increases the tax base from within… and reduces county debt. REPUBLICAN


Jim Becker East Stroudsburg Website: www.electjimbecker.com D.O.B.: 4/6/1955 EDUCATION: Graduated 1973, Stroudsburg High School; 1977, York College, B.S. Criminology and Police Science OCCUPATION: President Access Office Technologies QUALIFICATIONS: Local Employer, 31+ Years,; NFIB (National Federation of Independent Business) Pennsylvania Leadership Council, 2 years (Currently Serving); Greater Pocono Chamber of Commerce Businessperson of the Year, 2007; Elected President Rotary Club of the Stroudsburgs, 2007 ANSWER TO QUESTION: The answer to our county’s most serious problem…is not following our taxpayer approved business plan. I will address this problem by implementing economic development policies that will: Pursue the retention and expansion of existing Monroe County companies by recognizing infrastructure and other economic needs. Demand a balanced tax base to fairly support financing public works and services. Recycle vacant buildings and sites with access to existing infrastructure. DEMOCRATIC Suzanne F McCool Stroudsburg Website: http://www.merlimccool.com D.O.B.: not given EDUCATION: BS Education – Mansfield University; MS Counselor Education – University of Scranton; 45 additional Graduate credits from Marywood and ESU in administration CURRENT OCCUPATION: Monroe County Commissioner QUALIFICATIONS FOR THIS OFFICE : Stroudsburg Boro Planning Commission for over 30 years; Monroe 2020 Task Force; Hamilton, Stroud, Pocono, Stroudsburg Regional Planning Committee; Democratic Committee woman for over 20 yrs. (Before present position); // ANSWER TO QUESTION: Fast growing Monroe County presents many unique challenges, exerting enormous pressures on our infrastructure, schools, Human Service Agencies, resulting in problems balancing growth, providing jobs, educational opportunities, and social needs of our citizens. Upon re-election, I’ll continue to fight for our fair share from Harrisburg and Washington to keep our Human Service programs afloat which have been seriously cut. I’ll advocate for balanced growth, open space, clean water and air, affordable housing, expansion of NCC Monroe Campus, // DEMOCRATIC Theresa Merli Swiftwater Website: http://www.merlimccool.com D.O.B.: 6/10/1952 EDUCATION: 1974, Georgian Court University, B.A. OCCUPATION: Monroe County Commissioner


QUALIFICATIONS: Monroe County Commissioner 4 years; Paradise Township Supervisor 5 years; Paradise Township Auditor 6 years; Citizen of the Year Paradise Township; Brodhead Watershed Association Board of Trustees Past President ANSWER TO QUESTION: Achieving balance between the desire for jobs, and development for homes and businesses while protecting the natural systems we cherish and ultimately depend on is THE challenge for our community. Progress does not demand degraded surroundings and loss of Quality of Life in Monroe County. Development is inevitable, but the destruction of community character and natural resources that too often accompany growth is not inevitable. We can protect our Assets AND plan for the Future! CONTROLLER (Vote for one) Term: 4 years JOB DESCRIPTION: The controller (or three auditors) gathers budget information, prescribes accounting systems to be used in county offices, approves all bills, audits books of all county officers, and makes financial reports at the end of the year. QUESTION: Do you have specific suggestions for improving the administration of the office for which you are a candidate? REPUBLICAN Marlo A Merhige Cresco D.O.B.: 4/6/1968 EDUCATION: Graduated Cum Laude, College Misericordia, B.S. in Accounting OCCUPATION: Monroe County Controller QUALIFICATIONS: I became Controller in 2000 and have been overseeing all aspects of the Controller’s Office since 1997. With my leadership skills and on-the-job training, I am a strong advocate for the people of the County. ANSWER TO QUESTION: As the current Controller, I will continue to work with state and local officials to keep our financial system one of the best in the state. The experience in my office enables us to keep up with the changing times, resulting in a savings to all. Monroe County cannot afford to undo the powerful checks and balances that have been implemented into the financial system and continue year to year under my leadership. DEMOCRATIC Hector Cintron No response


REGISTER OF WILLS/ RECORDER OF DEEDS (Vote for one) Term: 4 years JOB DESCRIPTION: The Registers of Wills probates the wills of county residents, collects state inheritance taxes, and maintains records related to wills and fiduciary accounts. The Recorder of Deeds maintains the record of real property in the county, including titles and liens on property. The Recorder also keeps records of military discharges. QUESTION: Do you have specific suggestions for improving the administration of the office for which you are a candidate? REPUBLICAN Helen Diecidue Stroudsburg D.O.B.: not given EDUCATION: Educated in New York schools—Bay Ridge HS—attended real estate and title insurance courses. On going continually education for both offices. OCCUPATION: Register of Wills/Recorder of Deeds QUALIFICATIONS: Presently Register of Wills/Recorder of Deeds for 11 years; Oversee activities for both offices with staff of 13 employees; Conducts hearings for Wills Dept. // ANSWER TO QUESTION: As the current Register of Wills/Record of Deeds, I have modernized and upgraded many aspects of each office while assuring that money was not being frivolously wasted within the offices. The staff continues to uncover delinquent real estate transfer tax and forward document to Dept. of Revenue for review and collection. Staff continues to scan and index documents making documents available on the internet. Presently scanned back to 1948. In the future will scan back to 1924. // DEMOCRATIC John Kahwaty East Stroudsburg Website: www.johnkahwaty.com D.O.B.: 4/2/1961 EDUCATION: Connecticut School of Broadcasting OCCUPATION: Vice-President, JN Entertainment; Sales and Marketing, Wyndham Vacations QUALIFICATIONS: I am an active member of the community with strong business experience. I believe my exceptional interpersonal skills, as well as my desire to serve my neighbors, will be a strong asset as I strengthen community/office interaction. ANSWER TO QUESTION: The Office of Register of Wills/Recorder of Deeds is one of the most important county unsung heroes. It has a stake in many of the biggest moments of our lives, from buying a home to saying final goodbyes to loved ones. The


Register/Recorder must have empathy and approachability to interact with our community as the need arises. I will bring fresh zeal, positivity and the willingness to serve to this office with your vote. PROTHONOTARY AND CLERK OF COURTS (Vote for one) Term: 4 years JOB DESCRIPTION: The Prothonotary is a clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, administrating the records of civil proceedings. Some additional duties include processing naturalization papers and issuing passports. The Clerk of Courts is the chief clerk and record keeper for the criminal proceedings of the Court of Common Pleas. QUESTION: Do you have specific suggestions for improving the administration of the office for which you are a candidate? REPUBLICAN George Warden Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 4/24/1958 EDUCATION: Stroudsburg High School; Penn State University; Majored in Facilities planning. OCCUPATION: Monroe County Prothonotary, Clerk of Courts & Clerk of Orphan’s Court QUALIFICATIONS: 2000 to Present Prothonotary and Clerk of Courts; 1990-2000 owner of a quality inspection company; director of conference services for Lehigh University. Nineteen years of volunteering and board memberships on many community organizations. // ANSWER TO QUESTION: It has been an honor to serve you the people of Monroe County. I brought my business experience, computer expertise, and principles of customer service to these offices, whose major functions are to ensure that all vital court documents are properly filed. I am proud of the work we have done to help victims of domestic violence, improved customer services, the applications of front line technologies to better service the Court System and people of Monroe County. SHERRIFF (Vote for one) Term: 4 years JOB DESCRIPTION: The Sheriff, as an officer of the court, serves writs, warrants, summonses, and other judicial documents. The sheriff also executes sheriff’s sales and


carries out orders of the county court. In some counties, duty sheriffs provide courthouse security and transport prisoners. The sheriff is responsible for issuing gun permits. QUESTION: Do you have specific suggestions for improving the administration of the office for which you are a candidate? REPUBLICAN Stroud Township Todd Martin D.O.B.: 5/22/1959 EDUCATION: East Stroudsburg University – Sociology/Criminal Justice – 1977-1980; Nation Sheriff’s Academy – Colorado – 1996; United States Marshalls Service – Glenco, GA; PA Deputy Sheriffs Academy OCCUPATION: Sheriff QUALIFICATIONS: Sheriff since 1995; Chief Deputy – 1988-95; Sergeant – 1985-88; Corporal – 1983-85; Past President of State Sheriff’s Assoc; Past President of Fraternal Order of Police ANSWER TO QUESTION: Over my past 28 years, we have experienced a lot of change due to today’s society and the influx of population; especially since the “9-11” attacks. We have continued to maintain our efficiency & effectiveness in the Office, even with limited resources and staffing We could better “serve & protect” our constituents with better cooperation, support, communication and respect from the County Administration for the duties we perform daily without regards for our own safety! DISTRICT ATTORNEY (Vote for one) Term: 4 years JOB DESCRIPTION: The District Attorney signs all bills of indictment and prosecutes all criminal cases for the state. He/she appoints assistants, detectives, and clerks to assist in criminal investigations and trials. QUESTION: Do you have specific suggestions for improving the administration of the office for which you are a candidate? REPUBLICAN David Christine Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 4/24/1957 EDUCATION: Stroudsburg High School-1975; Lafayette College-1979; Southwestern


University School of Law, Dean’s Scholar-1981 OCCUPATION: District Attorney of Monroe County QUALIFICATIONS: Assistant District Attorney 1982-1987; Elected Assistant District Attorney 1988-1991; Assistant District Attorney 1998-2003; Elected District Attorney 2004-2011 ANSWER TO QUESTION: The District Attorney’s office can best be improved by maintaining leadership honed and developed through decades of experience in prosecuting criminals. Currently, I have 24 years of experience as a criminal prosecutor, and thirty years of total experience as an attorney. The significant crime problem Monroe County continues to face can best be attacked by ensuring that the District Attorney has career wide experience and a commitment to public service, as I do. MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT JUDGE (Vote for one) Term: 6 years QUESTION: Do you have specific suggestions for improving the administration of justice in Monroe County? All candidates for Magisterial District Judge are cross-filed under both the Republican and Democratic Party. Biographical information and response to the question appear according to the order candidates will appear on the ballot under the Republican Party slate. Only candidates’ names appear under the Democratic Party slate in ballot order. District 43-2-02 (East Stroudsburg Boro) REPUBLICAN Michael R Muth East Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 12/28/1950 EDUCATION: 1972 Ohio University, B.G.S. cum laude; 1975 U. Of North Carolina Juris Doctor OCCUPATION: Magisterial District Judge QUALIFICATIONS: Judge since 2006, Assistant Professor Criminal Justice ESU, Lawyer since 1975, Former Chief Public Defender, Former partner Muth & Zulick ANSWER TO QUESTION: Much of what needs to be done has to originate in Harrisburg, from either the Administrative Office of Pa. Courts or the Legislature. We have just started taking guilty pleas to 1st offense DUIs. I would like to see MDJs be able to place Defendants into the ARD program for misdemeanors. This would lessen the burden on the Common Pleas Courts. However, statutory authorization must first come from the Legislature.


DEMOCRATIC Candidate is cross-filed. See info under Republican Party slate. Michael R Muth District 43-3-01 (Coolbaugh Township; Mt Pocono Boro) REPUBLICAN Anthony D Fluegel Tobyhanna D.O.B.: 5/27/1954 EDUCATION: 1972 Graduate Pocono Central Catholic High School; Attended East Stroudsburg State College; 1979 Graduate Pa. State Police Academy; 2004 District Justice Certification Judicial Training Center CURRENT OCCUPATION: Magisterial District Judge QUALIFICATIONS FOR THIS OFFICE: Police Officer 28 years, Chief of Police 1985-1997; Appointed Governing Board of Chiefs Monroe Cty. Drug Task Force; // ANSWER TO QUESTION: none given DEMOCRATIC Candidate is cross-filed. See info under Republican Party slate. Anthony D Fluegel District 43-3-02 (Stroud Township) REPUBLICAN Robert M Maskrey, Jr Stroudsburg Website: www.maskreyfordistrictjudge.com D.O.B.: 3/10/1951 EDUCATION: Washington College, 1973, B.A. (magna cum laude); 1978, Dickinson Law School, J.D. OCCUPATION: Attorney QUALIFICATIONS: 32 Year legal career, emphasizing civil litigation and family law. Served as Judicial law clerk, assistant district attorney, public defender, custody master/conciliator, divorce master, juvenile master, arbitration board chairman and municipal zoning solicitor. ANSWER TO QUESTION: All family, dependency and juvenile law matters concerning one family should be considered by the same judge, with hearing decisions rendered within a month. Rules should be established countering abuses in the civil discovery process, reducing litigation expenses. Parental responsibility for juveniles should be mandated to reign in youthful offenders. Status conferences in civil litigation matters should be periodically held with a judge specifically assigned to the case, setting time


tables to expedite dispute resolution. REPUBLICAN Dan Higgins Stroud Township Website: www.higginsforjudge.com D.O.B.: 5/26/1967 EDUCATION: 1985, Notre Dame High School; 1989, Villanova University, Bachelor of Science in Accountancy; 1995, District of Columbia Law School, Juris Doctor OCCUPATION: Attorney-at-Law specializing in civil cases and criminal cases QUALIFICATIONS: Personally litigated hundreds of criminal cases and civil cases before all Monroe County Magisterial Courts since 1996; Special Solicitor for Monroe County Children & Youth Services, 4 years; // ANSWER TO QUESTION: As a Magisterial District Judge, I could help administer justice to Stroud Township residents and other litigants by ensuring that hearings are scheduled and heard promptly. Further, as Judge I would give litigants in civil cases an opportunity to schedule their cases after five o’clock p.m. so their claims could be decided without having to miss days from work or lose vacation time to go to a hearing. I also intend to have an open line of communication between my office and the general public; // REPUBLICAN Keith G Albert Stroudsburg Website: facebook.com Keith G Albert for Magisterial Dist. Judge D.O.B.: 4/9/1966 EDUCATION: 1984 – East Stroudsburg High School; 1993 – Lackawanna Jr. College Act 120 Police Academy; 1998 – Kromerhaus Kennels Police K-9 Academy OCCUPATION: Director of School Safety and Emergency Operations Stroudsburg Area School District QUALIFICATIONS: Certified by the Minor Judiciary Education Board to be District Judge – Harrisburg, Pa; Stroud Area Regional Police Commission Member – Stroud Twp. Representative; // ANSWER TO QUESTION: I will be fair and impartial as your next Magisterial District Judge in Stroud Township. My community involvement runs deep in our Township. My occupation with the Stroudsburg Area School District, coaching Stroudsburg Little League, and 5th & 6th grade football all keep me “connected to our community” on a daily basis. I have completed the certification course that is required to be your next Magisterial District Judge. REPUBLICAN Richard B Wolbert Stroudsburg Website: http://RichardWolbertForDistrictJudge D.O.B.: 9/11/1958 EDUCATION: Graduated 1980 Kings College B.A. Criminal Justice. Graduated 1981


Allentown Police Academy. OCCUPATION: Homicide Detective Criminal Investigator Stroud Regional Police QUALIFICATIONS: Extensive body of work in law enforcement. All types of trials and hearings, testified in criminal, traffic and civil cases. 30 years as a Police Officer one dozen homicide convictions. ANSWER TO QUESTION: Educate the public about the purpose of the Magisterial District Court and the legal process. That it is the people’s court where small claims, traffic court, preliminary hearings, arraignments, township ordinances and quality of life issues are handled. Endeavor to move cases through in a timely manner. Attempt to schedule cases at the most convenient times possible. Attempt to influence students from preschool to college by teaching them about personal safety and crime prevention. DEMOCRATIC Candidates are cross-filed. See info under Republican Party slate. Richard B Wolbert Dan Higgins Keith G Albert Robert M Maskrey, Jr District 43-3-03 (Pocono Township) REPUBLICAN Steve Garvey Pocono Township D.O.B.: 7/25/1960 EDUCATION: June-2011 Magisterial District Judge Course; 2003-2010 PA Bar Institute-various legal courses; 1993 Chartered Financial Consultant- American College; 1984 B.A. -William Paterson University; 1983 U.S. Army Officers School- Ft Benning, GA; 1980 U.S.M.C. NCO Academy- Parris Island, SC OCCUPATION: Accountant/ Notary/ PENNDOT DMV Messenger QUALIFICATIONS: Magisterial District Judge Course (6/11); PA Bar Institute- various legal courses ANSWER TO QUESTION: Yes! The PA Judicial Code- Section 152D, states that when a defendant is found guilty of a summary offense, the District Judges are permitted to sentence the defendant to community service. When elected as district judge, I will attempt to establish a community service program in Pocono Township that includes picking up litter on our roads, graffiti removal, and other community services, to the various non-profits agencies within Pocono Township. This in turn will benefit all the residents in Pocono Township. REPUBLICAN Tom Olsen Tannersville D.O.B.: 6/14/1954


EDUCATION: High School Graduate; Certified by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania to hold the office of Magisterial District Judge OCCUPATION: Magisterial District Judge – 17 years. QUALIFICATIONS: Magisterial District Judge – 17 years – 1994 to present; Pocono Township Police Officer – 17 years – 1977-1994; The only candidate certified to hold this judicial office. ANSWER TO QUESTION: No, however, I would point out voter awareness is essential to maintain the quality of justice in Monroe County. In my experience as a sitting District Judge, I will continue to maintain the same work ethic and dedication to justice as I have in the past 17 years. And, I will make every effort to enhance the judicial service whenever possible as the law allows. DEMOCRATIC Candidates are cross-filed. See info under Republican Party slate. Tom Olsen Steve Garvey District 43-3-04 (Chestnuthill Township; Jackson Township) REPUBLICAN Debby York Saylorsburg Website: facebook Vote Debby York D.O.B.: 7/18/1954 EDUCATION: 1972- Graduated from Pleasant Valley; 1987- Completed and passed the certification to be a magisterial district Judge; 1988- to Present re-certified every year; 1990-1991 Attended ESU for physicology OCCUPATION: Magisterial District Judge 23 years QUALIFICATIONS: Magisterial District Judge 23 years; superior audits continousley; being able to make an independent ruling on the facts presented on each case, // ANSWER TO QUESTION: none given REPUBLICAN Colleen Mancuso Saylorsburg Website: colleenmancuso.com D.O.B.: 2/15/1966 EDUCATION: 1993, Ohio Northern University School of law, J.D.; 1988, University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, B.A. OCCUPATION: Partner, Mancuso & Mancuso, PC; Assistant district attorney for Monroe County QUALIFICATIONS: Attorney practicing for 17 years; Assistant district attorney for 10 of 17 years; Civil lawyer for 14 of 17 years ANSWER TO QUESTION: The present eligibility requirements for District Judges


allows non law trained District Judges. This should be changed. Law trained judiciary will improve the quality of the judicial decision making of our district courts thereby reducing appeals and easing the workloads of the court of common pleas. This will allow for easier access to the courts for people, greater flexibility for scheduling cases, expanded jurisdiction and an increased confidence by the public in our court system. DEMOCRATIC Candidates are cross-filed. See info under Republican Party slate. Debby York Colleen Mancuso District 43-4-01 (Delaware Water Gap Boro; Middle Smithfield Township; Smithfield Township) REPUBLICAN Brian Germano Marshalls Creek Website: facebook.com/ judge brian germano D.O.B.: 9/9/1959 EDUCATION: J.D., City University of New York Law School @ Queens College.; Dean’s letter, moot court, law journal.; M.A., University of Connecticut.; A.B., Syracuse University. Phi beta kappa, magna cum laude, Dean’s list. OCCUPATION: Magisterial District Judge. Adjunct Professor. QUALIFICATIONS: Judge, 5 years.; Professor, Constitutional Law and Criminal Justice, 5 years.; Attorney, 12 years. ANSWER TO QUESTION: “As a … person specially learned in the law,” the supreme court says, “a judge is in a unique position to contribute to the improvement of the law, the legal system, and the administration of justice.” I suggest strengthening district courts by increasing their jurisdictional limit, using default scheduling, and expanding plea and rehabilitation programs, thus making the district courts more accessible and helpful to working people. I have implemented some of these measures and continue efforts to achieve the others. REPUBLICAN Fred Cutaio East Stroudsburg Website: CutaioforJudge.com D.O.B.: 10/3/1965 EDUCATION: 2004, Rutgers-Newark School of Law, J.D.; Rutgers University- University College, New Brunswick, B.S.; Mercer County Community College, A.A. OCCUPATION: Monroe County Assistant Public Defender QUALIFICATIONS: Law Clerk 2 years; Assistant Public Defender 5 years ANSWER TO QUESTION: More cases need to be settled at the Magisterial Court level. First offense DUI pleas can now be taken and ARD is available in summary cases. These options need to be used to help alleviate the growing case load in Monroe


County. Raising the monetary levels in civil cases could also alleviate cases. More juvenile cases should be handled in Magisterial Court, including truancy. And lastly, the use of the internet for more court business. DEMOCRATIC Candidates are cross-filed. See info under Republican Party slate. Fred Cutaio Brian Germano District 43-4-03 (Eldred Township, Hamilton Township, Polk Township, Ross Township) REPUBLICAN Jolana Krawitz Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 1952 EDUCATION: Certified 1993, Pennsylvania Supreme Court; Northampton Community College OCCUPATION: Magisterial District Judge QUALIFICATIONS: Three terms, Magisterial District Judge; 22 years judicial Service; “Exemplary” audits, PA Supreme Court, 1994 – 2009; Continuing education—Minor Judiciary Education Board, District Attorney’s Office, Administrative Office of PA Courts, Women’s Resources, Special Courts Judges Association ANSWER TO QUESTION: The county should apply for grants to establish a central court for preliminary hearings. Grants have been secured to open a central booking center at the jail, which will streamline the processing and arraignment procedures. State Police citations are e-filed, and District Court computers now interface with Common Pleas computers. Likewise, a central court, utilizing available technology, would allow police more time to patrol and save taxpayer money and resources. REPUBLICAN Dawn Bartholomew Saylorsburg WEBSITE: http://www.dawn4dj.com DOB: 7/17/1959 EDUCATION: Certifying course of instruction for prospective Magisterial District Judges held by the Minor Judiciary Education Board, 2005 CURRENT OCCUPATION: Therapeutic Foster Parent QUALIFICATIONS FOR THIS OFFICE : Worked with Attorney Michael Corcoran on court cases at the MDJ, Common Pleas and Appellant Court levels; Invested in our community and the safety of our neighborhoods ANSWER TO QUESTION: I will make the District Court user friendly insuring that all parties have an understanding of their “day in court”. Evening hours will be offered to accommodate those who are working, at school or otherwise unable to conduct business during normal daytime hours. I intend to promote public knowledge of the


District Court through education and publications. “Keeping our community safe and preserving the family values, which makes our community a great place to live”. DEMOCRATIC Candidates are cross-filed. See info under Republican Party slate. Dawn Bartholomew Jolana Krawitz District 43-4-04 (Tobyhanna Township, Tunkhannock Township) REPUBLICAN Richard S Claypool Pocono Pines D.O.B.: 12/23/1965 EDUCATION: Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. State required Magisterial District Judge Certification. Magisterial District Judge re-certification 1994 to present. OCCUPATION: Magisterial District Judge Tobyhanna/Tunkhannock Township QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice. Magisterial District Judge Certification. Magisterial District Judge 17 years, hearing over 85,000 cases. ANSWER TO QUESTION: None given DEMOCRATIC Candidate is cross-filed. See info under Republican Party slate. Richard S Claypool EAST STROUDSBURG AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT QUESTION: What do you consider the most serious problem in your school district and how would you propose solving it? All candidates for ESASD School District are cross-filed under both the Republican and Democratic Party. Biographical information and response to the question appear according to the order candidates will appear on the ballot under the Republican Party slate. Only candidates’ names appear under the Democratic Party slate in ballot order. SCHOOL DIRECTOR AT LARGE (Vote for not more than five) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN


Audrey Bailey Hocker East Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 3/16/1942 EDUCATION: 1980 Graduate of Fordham University, Maj. Social Science & Minor in Political Science; 1990 - 1992, Completed Required Courses for Masters Program in Science Education, have not Received my MS.; Have also, taken courses in Conflict Resolution, Complete an extensive 3 year program, in Cooperative Learning as well as Education in Human Values. OCCUPATION: // QUALIFICATIONS: (word limit exceeded) ANSWER TO QUESTION: I see the major problem, in our district to the need to improve and ensure a quality education, commensurate with the large amount of tax dollars that our taxpayers have committed to education. With academic improvement, we can increase the number of students gaining entry to 4 year colleges. Moreover, I believe these improvements can be done, without any additional strain to our Taxpayers. REPUBLICAN William Searfoss East Stroudsburg D.O.B.: not given EDUCATION: GRADUATE STROUDSBURG HIGH SCHOOL OCCUPATION: Records Systems Administrator/Sergeant Monroe County Correctional Facility QUALIFICATIONS: SMALL BUSINESS OWNER 20+ YEARS; 2 CHILDREN IN ESASD; 24 YEAR CAREER IN CORRECTIONS; CO-FOUNDER OF ESTBG NEIGHBORHOOD CRIME WATCH; ADVOCATE OF ‘THRIFTY AND WISE’ SPENDING; COMMITTED TO ECONOMIC STABILITY IN THE DISTRICT. ANSWER TO QUESTION: Lack of funding resulting in tax increases: Responsible fiscal management is something that happens all year long and not just at budget time. While a board member cannot vote “NO” on all expenditures, each expense needs to be scrutinized for its educational value. Having two children in the district and a house full of their friends gives great insight into the needs and problems faced by students everyday and the effect of the boards actions. REPUBLICAN Devin Day East Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 12/6/1951 EDUCATION: Maryville University- St. Louis, Masters of Science in Management; Technical Education: USMC Comm/Elect Schools OCCUPATION: National Sales Manager. QUALIFICATIONS: More than 30 years of management experience with P&L responsibility. Helped establish 2 local religious non-public schools. Served on PSSA roundtable comittees during establishment process. ANSWER TO QUESTION: We can do better. Taxpayers and students are in a trap.


High taxes. No infrastructure for industry. Bottom of the barrel SAT Scores. Decentralize: Institute school-based management. Create college in high school program. Institute private school curricula in the ESASD, such as Calvert School Program. Withdraw from MCTI. Take savings and give scholarships to professional trade schools. Will compensate for district debt service with interest of $344 million until 2040. Per capita debt of $5,500. REPUBLICAN Antonette Valentino No response REPUBLICAN Eileen H Featherman East Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 1/19/1940 EDUCATION: East Stroudsburg University – B.S. 1975; East Stroudsburg University – M.S. 1984 OCCUPATION: Retired Nurse QUALIFICATIONS: School Nurse – employed for 25 years at Pocono Mt. School District. ANSWER TO QUESTION: The financial squeeze between lower state reimbursements and the decline in lower local source of funding. Solutions: 1.) Exploring funds for the Tocks Island land.; 2.) leasing school buses rather than purchasing them.; 3.) Doing a needs assessment of our schools and staffing. REPUBLICAN Marjorie James East Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 2/15/1944 EDUCATION: 1966, Bloomsburg University, B.S.; 1983 East Stroudsburg University – Certification in Elementary Education. OCCUPATION: Retired QUALIFICATIONS: Resident taxpayer; Three children that graduated from the District; 25 years teaching in East Stroudsburg School District; Grade level chairperson for District; 2 Outstanding Teacher of the Year awards; I’m a hard worker and a team player ANSWER TO QUESTION: We need to work together! I am a strong advocate for children and their right to a good education. The current economy is increasing pressure on our District to solve funding problems when we formulate a budget. Parents, educators and politicians need to focus on the educational needs of the children. As a united team, let’s step back, see where we are, and set our goals as to where we want to be. REPUBLICAN Jim Brunkard East Stroudsburg


D.O.B.: 8/16/1949 EDUCATION: I am a high school graduate with three years of college credits… OCCUPATION: homemaker QUALIFICATIONS: I am an incumbent School Board Director and have served our community, among other places, on the Tannersville Cranberry Bog Committee and the Fine Arts Discovery Series. ANSWER TO QUESTION: Public education needs to be further appreciated and treasured. The time and money we commit through our educators to our student body deserves recognition for its worthwhileness. Schooling is not simply childcare or career preparation. Education actualizes and enhances the mental capacities of our population, improving society. We need to focus our efforts and resources on increasing content and quality without fearing failure. Our schools certainly fail when we “teach to the test”. REPUBLICAN Bet Hays No response REPUBLICAN Roy Horton Tamiment Website: ROYRHORTON.COM D.O.B.: 8/13/1971 EDUCATION: Long Beach High School, Long Beach NY General Diploma 1993; United States Naval Machinist Mate School, Great Lakes, Ill, 1993 OCCUPATION: General Manager Sears Holdings Corp. Whitehall, Pennsylvania QUALIFICATIONS: General Manager of Sears Responsible for 30+ million a year in sales; 300+ employees, Profit & Loss Statements, and all functions of Running the business and budgeting for the business. ANSWER TO QUESTION: increasing taxes; I will balance the school budget the same way my wife and I balance our check book. We don’t spend more than we have. This will help keep taxes in line. In addition I will dive into school spending and expenses and look for other ways to save money. increased taxes is forcing families to leave the Pocono’s. We must find other ways to save and control our spending. REPUBLICAN Ronald D Bradley East Stroudsburg D.O.B.: not given EDUCATION: University of Illinois; Baruch College Major: Marketing, Business Management; Minor: Public Relations, Law OCCUPATION: Retired: wking with disabled vets, and the disadvantaged QUALIFICATIONS: Military/Federal Law Enforcement; Personnel Recruitment, Brokerage; Finance. Consultant. Entrepreneur; Community BD of Directors. Rules and Regulations Committee.; Leadership award by Principal Financial Group ANSWER TO QUESTION: They are low test scores, taxes and spending. The quality


of our childrens education needs to be our primary focus and the Boards and every effort made, to challenge our educators and children to be the best they can be! Taxes, ever rising, are creating foreclosures, which are eroding our tax base, and creating hardships. I will promote responsible spending and. create iniatives that will create an atmosphere of austerity, quality education, transparency, and accountability. REPUBLICAN Michael Mike Meachem Taimiment D.O.B.: 1/1957 EDUCATION: not given OCCUPATION: not given QUALIFICATIONS: During my past 8+ years as an everyday Pike County citizen within E.S.A.S.D., my monthly school board meeting attendance rate is better than 90%. Abilities I can share include: problem-solving skills with a focus on fiscal responsibility and directness, while communicating candidly and directly with teams to understand all viewpoints. ANSWER TO QUESTION: ‘Improvement Areas’ best identifies our school district. Current treatment of the PUBLIC suggests WE are unimportant. Returning ’The PUBLIC’ to Public Education can happen through the elimination of selective practices; the recognition and integration of the entire community: North and South, Longstanding Citizens and Recently Relocated, Commuters and Resident Workers - EVERYBODY! Our elected Board and its Administration must realize: The ’PUBLIC’ is not an imposition on their day - We are the reason for it! DEMOCRATIC Candidates are cross-filed. See info under Republican Party slate. Michael Mike Meachem Antonette Valentino William Searfoss Devin Day Eileen H Featherman Jim Brunkard Audrey Bailey Hocker Ronald D Bradley Marjorie James Roy Horton Bet Hays SCHOOL DIRECTOR AT LARGE (Vote for one) Term: 2 years REPUBLICAN Michael Mike Meachem


Taimiment D.O.B.: 1/1957 EDUCATION: not given OCCUPATION: not given QUALIFICATIONS: During my past 8+ years as an everyday Pike County citizen within E.S.A.S.D., my monthly school board meeting attendance rate is better than 90%. Abilities I can share include: problem-solving skills with a focus on fiscal responsibility and directness, while communicating candidly and directly with teams to understand all viewpoints. ANSWER TO QUESTION: ‘Improvement Areas’ best identifies our school district. Current treatment of the PUBLIC suggests WE are unimportant. Returning ’The PUBLIC’ to Public Education can happen through the elimination of selective practices; the recognition and integration of the entire community: North and South, Longstanding Citizens and Recently Relocated, Commuters and Resident Workers - EVERYBODY! Our elected Board and its Administration must realize: The ’PUBLIC’ is not an imposition on their day - We are the reason for it! DEMOCRATIC Candidate is cross-filed. See info under Republican Party slate. Michael Mike Meachem POCONO MOUNTAIN SCHOOL DISTRICT QUESTION: What do you consider the most serious problem in your school district and how would you propose solving it? Most candidates for Pocono Mountain School District are cross-filed under both the Republican and Democratic Party. In this case, biographical information and response to the question appear according to the order candidates will appear on the ballot under the Republican Party slate. Only candidates’ names appear under the Democratic Party slate in ballot order. For candidates who are not cross-filed, the information will appear under the party slate for which the candidate filed. SCHOOL DIRECTOR- Region 1 (Vote for one) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Meg Dilger Cresco D.O.B.: 9/30/1955 EDUCATION: 1977, St. Francis College, BS Business Administration OCCUPATION: Dental Assistant/Office Manager


QUALIFICATIONS: Current PMSD School Board Director (7 years) ANSWER TO QUESTION: The PMSD budget is the major concern of the taxpayers. Sitting as a current board member, I’ve been the lone “no” vote to curtail the “spiraling spending”. My focus is on academics for student achievement and improvement in public education. I am the voice of the taxpayer with conservative spending and fiscal responsibility. The solution is to present all budgets as “streamline budgets” regardless of economic times. DEMOCRATIC Candidate is cross-filed. See info under Republican Party slate. Meg Dilger SCHOOL DIRECTOR- Region 2 (Vote for one) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Mary A Zeldenrust Long Pond D.O.B.: 12/2/1960 EDUCATION: B.S. Microbiology, Arizona State University. Three Masters courses, Temple University OCCUPATION: Analytical Manager QUALIFICATIONS: Six years attendance at school board meetings and my analytical background give me a unique set of qualifications that will allow me to be an asset to the board and a strong advocate for taxpayers and students. ANSWER TO QUESTION: The current economic climate has strained district resources jeopardizing the ability to deliver a high quality affordable education. The needs of both taxpayer and student must be met. Approximately 50% of the budget is allocated to administration and 50% to instruction. We need to shift this ratio in favor of instruction by instituting lean business practices. For starters I would eliminate redundant management levels and reduce the number of fleet vehicles and cell phones. REPUBLICAN Rusty L Johnson Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 3/7/1962 EDUCATION: 1980 Pocono Mt. Graduate; 1980-81 Bloomsburg University; 1982-83 Northampton Community College OCCUPATION: Computer Programmer & System Analyst QUALIFICATIONS: Former Jackson Township Supervisor; 1994-Present owner operator of Johnson Technologies; Worked for 20 plus years in the Accounting Department of ATAS International, Inc. ANSWER TO QUESTION: #1 problem. Spending and Fiscal Responsibility. We need to examine each and every budget line item and save where we can. With our shrinking


tax base and foreclosures we need to work closely with our legislators to find other funding options than property tax. When I find myself paying more in property taxes than I do my mortgage something is broke with the system. Unfortunately there will be no quick fix but we need to address these issues immediately. // REPUBLICAN Donnie Alvarez Long Pond D.O.B.: not given EDUCATION: State University of New York at Stony Brook 1994 Social services OCCUPATION: Recreation Coordinator QUALIFICATIONS: Recreation Coordinator, A Pocono country Place POA 1 year—Create various educational and recreation programs for children and their families.; Director of Community Recreation and School Age Programs, Emerald Lakes Community Association 5 years—Create various educational and recreation programs for children and their families. // ANSWER TO QUESTION: Due to budget cuts, unsteady economy and lack of government funding the school district is struggling to provide the resources our youth need with limited funding. We need to closely examine our school district’s budget. I want to help ensure that money is well spent and there is fiscal responsibility. Budget cuts should never adversely affect our children. DEMOCRATIC Candidates are cross-filed. See info under Republican Party slate. Mary A Zeldenrust Donnie Alvarez SCHOOL DIRECTOR- Region 3 (Vote for not more than two) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Jacquelyn L Leonard Tobyhanna Website: http://www.saveourschoolspmsd.com D.O.B.: 11/26/1968 EDUCATION: 1991, Millersville University, BS; TBD, Thomas Jefferson University, MS (pending completion of thesis). OCCUPATION: Research, Sanofi Pasteur QUALIFICATIONS: Participated in Big Brothers/Big Sisters; Passionate about education for our children; Local real-estate investor and concerned about property values; Skilled at research and compiling and analyzing data to identify and solve problems. ANSWER TO QUESTION: The biggest problem is the failure of the board to direct the administration to operate within its means. I will take an active approach in researching


the validity of information provided the board in making decisions. Though I know the pressure will be intense from certain groups to do so, I will not support any spending requests that are outside either the available means without increasing taxes or the critical mission of educating our children. REPUBLICAN Michael V Gazza Mt Pocono D.O.B.: 1963 EDUCATION: Brooklyn Law School JD. 1994; East Stroudsburg University B.A. 1986 Economics OCCUPATION: Attorney QUALIFICATIONS: District resident since 1981; Two children in Elementary School; 15 year Practicing Attorney; 22 years Business & Management Experience including budgeting, planning, and Human Resource Management ANSWER TO QUESTION: The most serious problem is preserving the quality of Education with less available funding. School Boards must scrutinize administration budgets to achieve quality education without oppressive taxation. Prior Boards approved huge growth in infrastructure and human resources while consistently raising taxes. We must carefully reverse this process without harming the quality of education. I will focus on efficiency and achieving measurable results for my district. REPUBLICAN John H Davis Tobyhanna D.O.B.: 4/23/1948 EDUCATION: Pocono Mountain High School – 1966; B.A. – Adrian College- 1970; M.B.A. – University of Denver – 1972 OCCUPATION: Self-Employed QUALIFICATIONS: Business background: 50 years in heating/oil propane industry – managing small family business. Practical experience in running business, employees, benefits, insurance, payroll, legal matters, and cost-containment measures to reduce spending. ANSWER TO QUESTION: Ever-shrinking State and Federal funding threaten our public educational programs and threaten our taxpayers with ever-higher taxes. Look at all staffing, professional, administrative, support – combine classes where possible, eliminate or scale back other offerings. Reduce staff where possible without affecting program. Outsource where feasible and practical. Sell off or lease unused/idle buildings or space. Work with State Representatives for additional funding, push for new funding via 1% state sales tax increase. DEMOCRATIC These candidates are cross-filed. See info under Republican Party slate. John H Davis Michael V Gazza Jacquelyn L Leonard


DEMOCRATIC Sylvia Mitchell Tobyhanna D.O.B.: 5/29/1960 EDUCATION: 1982- New York University (BS- Finance) OCCUPATION: Property Manager QUALIFICATIONS: 18 years experience as a on site Property Manager for multi million dollars housing complexes. Prepared all budgets & worked closely with CFO. 26 years experience working with the public sector. ANSWER TO QUESTION: The most serious problem affecting the Pocono Mountain (West) School District is the reduction in the teaching staff & extra curricular activities being reduced. A different approach strategy to revising the budgets will enable teachers to remain on the Board, student teachers to continue to offer additional guidance to the students. And continue to offer activities to the students. The old approach of increasing taxes is just not the solution. Other measures must be implemented to resolve this matter. DEMOCRATIC Kieran Adair No response PLEASANT VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT QUESTION: What do you consider the most serious problem in your school district and how would you propose solving it? All candidates for PVSD School District are cross-filed under both the Republican and Democratic Party. Biographical information and response to the question appear according to the order candidates will appear on the ballot under the Republican Party slate. Only candidates’ names appear under the Democratic Party slate in ballot order. SCHOOL DIRECTOR AT LARGE (Vote for not more than five) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Dominick J Sacci Effort Website: facebook.com/DominickJSacci D.O.B.: 7/25/1975 EDUCATION: Currently pursuing a degree in Business Management from Northampton Community College.


OCCUPATION: President of Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Wilkins & Associates. QUALIFICATIONS: Responsible for operating the most successful real estate company in NE PA within its budget & the challenges of a retracting real estate industry. ANSWER TO QUESTION: The Most serious problem is our increasing property taxes. As a Real Estate Professional for almost two decades, I know what high taxes and rumors of a deteriorating shool district does to our property values. I would plan to stabilize taxes by cutting costs, eliminating waste, & increasing efficiency. REPUBLICAN Linda S Micklos Effort D.O.B.: 10/25/1952 EDUCATION: 1994, Northampton College, A.A.S. OCCUPATION: Registered Dental Hygienist QUALIFICATIONS: PV School Director – 10 years; American Dental Hygienist Academy Member (15 years); Joint Operating Committee Member of Monroe Career and Technical Institute (8 years) ANSWER TO QUESTION: Balancing the Budget: Providing a quality education for all P.V. students while implimenting cost effective measurers will be a challenge. Given the difficult economic times, all areas within the budget need a critical evaluation. Justification and determining necessity of expenditures are paramount. Taxpayers provide a basis of revenue and their interests need to be respected and valued. REPUBLICAN H Charles Hoffman Brodheadsville D.O.B.: 6/15/1934 EDUCATION: Chestnuthill H.S. 1952 OCCUPATION: Farmer, Truck Drive QUALIFICATIONS: P.V. School Director - 20 yrs; Life long resident; Monroe Career & Technical Institute - 10yrs JOC member ANSWER TO QUESTION: Provide a quality education with the new government proposed budget cuts while keeping in mind, the taxpayers dollars at current levels The saying “Do more with less” needs to be the motto. REPUBLICAN Susan A Kresge Saylorsburg D.O.B.: 3/29/1957 EDUCATION: Graduate of Stroudsburg High School OCCUPATION: Co-owner Mt. Effort Service Station; Association Manager for the Pennsylvania State Women’s Bowling Association QUALIFICATIONS: Member of the PV School Board since 1998. Understand all aspects of school district management. Attend PA School Board seminars and convention. Care about the students and residents in our community.


ANSWER TO QUESTION: The drastic proposed decrease of state funding for the 2011-2012 school year. Fortunately we have been proactive and closed a small school, reduced staff and made program adjustments. We have been fiscally responsible in the past and can use some of our fund balance. We have frozen the 2010-11 budget only allowing essential purchases. We have involved staff in cost-cutting ideas and have re-evaluated all line items in the 2011-12 budget. REPUBLICAN Steve Borger Kunkletown D.O.B.: 8/14/1959 EDUCATION: 1977 Graduate of Pleasant Valley High School and Monroe County Vo-Tech school OCCUPATION: Project supervisor for Leonard M. Borger, Inc. Construction and Well Drilling QUALIFICATIONS: 17 years as Eldred Township Supervisor, Chairman for 15 years, member of Monroe 2020 Committee, 34 years involvement with local, family owned business. ANSWER TO QUESTION: I feel the major challenge is to minimize local tax increases without sacrificing the quality of education and other school programs. While this position may not be popular, I believe that as student enrollment declines staffing levels need to be adjusted in all areas from the top down. I can apply my experience in construction to building and grounds issues and, in turn, assist other board members in making informed decisions on these matters. REPUBLICAN Russell A Gould Brodheadsville D.O.B.: 12/17/1958 EDUCATION: Graduate of Pleasant Valley High School 1976 OCCUPATION: Farmer QUALIFICATIONS: Life time member West End Fire Co. with 20+ years; School Director for the past 7+ years; Member of Monroe County Agricultural Land Preservation Board.; Life time resident of Pleasant Valley School District ANSWER TO QUESTION: School Taxes: With the Government cuts to public education and existing mandates in addition to potential new legislation, my responsibility as a school director is to examine and question how our tax dollars are being utilized. Considering the current economic times we must be as frugal as possible when it comes to spending each and every tax payer dollar. Our students deserve the best quality education. These students are our future. REPUBLICAN John M Sabia Brodheadsville D.O.B.: 8/7/1953 EDUCATION: Dean Jr. College, Franklin, MA; Assoc. Degree in Science/Bldg. Mngmt.


OCCUPATION: Construction Supervisor/Carpenter QUALIFICATIONS: Served on PV School Brd. 17 yrs.; 7 yrs. Monroe County Vo-tech Inst. (2 yrs. Pres.); Worked in Construction 40 yrs.; Community Member 34 yrs.; Member of Queen of Peace Financial Committee ANSWER TO QUESTION: There are several issues to be considered. First and foremost, the Governor’s budget and the restrictions involved. Secondly, the loss of enrollment and lastly the budget increases. Solving these issues would entail working with the non-mandated listed programs issued by the Governor. I will continue to work with staff and administration as well as support staff to ensure an agreeable new contract with wages and benefits within our means. Hopefully with my support we can continue to offer our students the highest level of education possible. DEMOCRATIC Candidates are cross-filed. See info under Republican Party slate. Linda S Micklos Steve Borger John M Sabia H Charles Hoffman Russell A Gould Susan A Kresge Dominick J Sacci STROUDSBURG SCHOOL DISTRICT QUESTION: What do you consider the most serious problem in your school district and how would you propose solving it? All candidates for SSD are cross-filed under both the Republican and Democratic Party. Biographical information and response to the question appear according to the order candidates will appear on the ballot under the Republican Party slate. Only candidates’ names appear under the Democratic Party slate in ballot order. SCHOOL DIRECTOR AT LARGE (Vote for not more than five) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Bill Martin Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 9/24/1944 EDUCATION: Racocas Valley H.S., Mt. Holly, N.J. 1962; Business Mgt. Courses Northampton Community College OCCUPATION: Retired from Metropolitan Edison Co. 2001. 31 yrs.


QUALIFICATIONS: Member Hamilton, Pocono, Jackson Township Open Space Commission, 4 years U.S. Air Force, Deputy Sheriff Monroe County, 66 years of Common Sense ANSWER TO QUESTION: Taxes: We cannot continue to rely on property owners and renters (indirectly) to fund 52 percent of our School Budgets! Taxpayers also supply the funds Harrisburg contributes to Local School Budgets, thus a double taxation. Applying a 1/2 of 1 percent sales tax in Pennsylvania, would fund all School Districts in our State. A dedicated sales tax would equalize taxation, eliminate property taxes, and assure a steady funding source. REPUBLICAN Rachel A Cardelle Stroudsburg Website: http://www.believe-in-better.net/default.html D.O.B.: 3/27/1963 EDUCATION: 1986, University of Colorado, B.A.; 1993, Johns Hopkins University, M.A. OCCUPATION: Ph.D. candidate, Penn State, Higher Education QUALIFICATIONS: School Board Director, 3 years; Committee Member, United Way, 1 year; Committee Member, Pennsylvania Advocates for Nutrition and Activity, 3 years; Stroudsburg Area School District Accreditation For Growth, 3 years ANSWER TO QUESTION: Harrisburg underfunds our school district. Stroudsburg receives roughly 20% of its budget from the state while the state average is 35%. The heavy reliance on property taxes is inequitable and pits the needs of our senior citizens against the educational needs of children. Emphasizing the search for new funding sources, in 3 years on the school board I have worked with fellow board members and found over $27 million in new funding. REPUBLICAN John Jake Jakobsen Sciota D.O.B.: 8/2/1968 EDUCATION: US Army Military Police OCCUPATION: Police Detective for Stroud Area Regional Police – Business Owner Pa Mobile Advertising QUALIFICATIONS: Current Stroudsburg School Board Member; Currently serving on several non-profit Organizations ANSWER TO QUESTION: The most serious problem is the lack of financial support from the state Government. I have helped to solve this problem by spending many hours researching and ultimately bringing a solar energy company to the district for the implementation of a project that will save the district at least 6 million dollars in electricity costs! I will continue to review ways to save the district money while still maintaining opportunities offered to our students. REPUBLICAN Judith A Magann


Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 6/29/1960 EDUCATION: Stroudsburg High School 1978; Penn State / NCC; Temple University School of Dentistry 1988 OCCUPATION: Dentist QUALIFICATIONS: Stroudsburg Area School Board. Director 2007-2011; Chair / Co-Chair of the Building and Grounds Committee; Personnel and Athletic Committee; United Way Board, Monroe County Children & Youth Board; Cancer Society, Monroe County Dental Society ANSWER TO QUESTION: The reduction in state funding is increasing financial burden on local taxpayers. It is forcing our community to choose between quality education and opportunities for our youth or taxing property owners to the hilt. Unfunded mandates by the state should be eliminated. If the state expects the services, it must be the source that funds it. Pennsylvania’s “hold harmless clause” has never redistributed funds for districts based on current needs. Stroudsburg’s has been shortchanged while other districts with stagnant populations receive more dollars. // REPUBLICAN Cindy Blake Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 1/1/1962 EDUCATION: 1979 – ESHS, 1980-1981 ESU OCCUPATION: Preschool Teacher at ABC Daycare and Preschool. QUALIFICATIONS: Supervisor, 6 years; Guest Services, Secretary,18 years; at Shawnee Mountain Ski area. PTA President, 7 years; officer for 10 years; in the schools for 11 years; Lifetime PA PTA member; regularly attend Stroudsburg School board meetings. ANSWER TO QUESTION: It has to be the budget. The budget of our schools should drive everything we do. If you can’t afford it, you must prioritize. We must strive for a solid foundation in the budget in order to support education. We have to effectively manage our money better than the previous “PRIDE” board had. We have a responsibility to budget within all our means. Our annual budgeted expenses shouldn’t require overburdening tax increases year after year. REPUBLICAN Brian A Caufield Delaware Water Gap Website: facebook.com/Brian Caufield for School Board D.O.B.: 9/15/1976 EDUCATION: 1998- Seton Hall University, B.S.; 2001- Touro Law Center, J.D. OCCUPATION: Labor Relations Attorney QUALIFICATIONS: As a management-side labor relations attorney I negotiate collective bargaining agreements and try arbitration and unfair labor practice cases. Human Resources Committee Chairman, Greater Pocono Chamber of Commerce. Member of the Planning Commission of Delaware Water Gap. ANSWER TO QUESTION: Spending. It is the single most pressing issue because it


directly leads to increased taxes. We must find common ground solutions to eliminate excessive spending. I propose meeting with each education Department Chair, and their extracurricular counterpart, to first determine where excessive spending has occurred and work to eliminate it without undermining effective education. This can be done by streamlining and making better use of available resources, such as electronic means of educating. REPUBLICAN Bruce Stewart Stroudsburg Website: www.stewartforschoolboard.com D.O.B.: 9/8/1965 EDUCATION: 1990, Penn State University, BS. OCCUPATION: Account Manager QUALIFICATIONS: Land O'Lakes/Purina.- Field Sales Manager; Worked with entrepreneurs on long and short term business plans.; Service- Church board, finance committee, board for Christian pre-school.; Coach YMCA and Little League; USMC; Married to Maggie, father of Brenna, Kayleigh and Faith. ANSWER TO QUESTION: Problem: Out of control spending.; Taxes increased almost 26% in the last 3 years.; Spending increased $17M from 2007-2008 to 2010-2011.; $93 million building project when our student enrollment is declining; Challenge current building project spending; Lack of accountability; Solution: Elect a board that represents the interests of the students, community and teachers.; Work with teachers; Accountability for the administration; Reduce tax increases, live within our means.; Understand budgets and contracts before approving them. REPUBLICAN Robert Yarnall East Stroudsburg Website: http://www.believe-in-better.net/default.html D.O.B.: 10/5/1968 EDUCATION: 2005, ESU, B.A., Summa Cum Laude OCCUPATION: Social Studies Teacher, MCTI; Recently Retired Master Gunnery Sergeant, Marines, 25 years service QUALIFICATIONS: Stroud Township Zoning Board, 6 years; Monroe County Bar Association Liberty Bell Award; Awarded for Leadership and Service by U.S. Marines, MS Society, Salvation Army, ESU, & Chapel of Four Chaplains ANSWER TO QUESTION: Unfunded mandates imposed by Federal and State Governments. These mandates push the financial responsibility for schools onto already overburdened local tax payers. As a board member, I will balance the necessity for quality education with the fiscal responsibility the community needs and expects given the current economic climate. I will pursue alternative funding opportunities while at the same time scrutinize spending to ensure we are getting positive educational results for every dollar spent. REPUBLICAN


Merlyn John Clarke Stroud Township Website: www.ClarkeForSchools.org D.O.B.: 11/20/1940 EDUCATION: BA, Utah State University; MA, Penn State; completed Ph.D. course work, Penn State. OCCUPATION: Retired QUALIFICATIONS: Professor, 35 years, Political Science, ESU; Five children, all graduated from Stroudsburg schools; Currently, member, County Planning Commission; Countywide Monroe 2020 Update Task Force; Volunteer instructor, The Older Adult Learning Center; Local arts activist/advocate. ANSWER TO QUESTION: The viability of public education is at risk because the current cost exceeds the willingness of the public to pay for it. While costs must be reigned in, simply cutting programs and staff indiscriminately will undermine quality at a time when American students struggle to compete in a global economy. Education reform is the issue of our time. We must revamp the way we educate to rationalize scarce resources while improving our children’s educational opportunities. REPUBLICAN Bradley A Strasser Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 8/1957 EDUCATION: 1981 PSU BS in Science; 1981-1988 USAF Captain, Aircraft Commander B-52 OCCUPATION: Captain, American Airlines since 1988 QUALIFICATIONS: Leadership skills attained from 30 years of commanding, instructing and evaluating various crews spanning the globe. Responsible for the safe and successful operation assorted but distinct missions encompassing our most important assets. ANSWER TO QUESTION: Leadership is missing inside the school board whose assigned responsibility is to know the community and school district well enough to help lead our children to find and attain their highest individual potential without bankrupting the community. My intention is to help lead the current school board and administration back in the direction and operation more aptly reflected by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Constitution demand the “efficient and thorough” education of our children. REPUBLICAN Eloise C Laubach Saylorsburg D.O.B.: 9/7/1951 EDUCATION: B.S. ESU 1973 OCCUPATION: Director of Services for Pleasant Valley Ecumenical Network QUALIFICATIONS: 12 yrs. on the board; Served as Treasurer, V. Pres. & Pres.; Currently Pres. ANSWER TO QUESTION: School Districts in Monroe County continue to be under


funded by the state. With Gov. Corbett’s proposed cuts to education this makes a greater problem. As a board member I work to offer a quality education without making cuts to programs. I will continue to advocate to the Gov. & legislators that public education funding needs to be a priority for all students. DEMOCRATIC Candidates are cross-filed. See info under Republican Party slate. Bill Martin Robert Yarnall Bruce Stewart Merlyn John Clarke Cindy Blake Eloise C Laubach Bradley Strasser Brian A Caufield Rachel A Cardelle Judith A Magann John Jake Jakobsen TOWNSHIP and BOROUGH OFFICES- Monroe County (see pa rts of Pike at end of Guide) Municipal offices are listed in alphabetical order according to borough/township. Only candidates for Township Supervisor or Borough Council Member were asked to complete the LWV questionnaire. For all other municipal candidates, only their names are listed as they appear on the ballot. QUESTION: What do you consider the most serious problem in your municipality and how would you propose solving it? BARRETT TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for not more than two) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Ralph G Megliola No response DEMOCRATIC Loree Gutherie Canadensis


D.O.B.: not given EDUCATION: ESU – B.A., B.S. Marywood – M.A. ESU – M.S. Temple – Edoctorate OCCUPATION: adjunct prof for Wilkes University – part-owner / operator of Middlebranch Farm QUALIFICATIONS: retired educational leader (assistant superintendent) ANSWER TO QUESTION: Our most serious problem is lack of money and initiatives to revitalize our community. The primary goal to revitalization efforts is to improve the livability and quality of life in a community by expanding and attracting employment and shopping and social activities. To successfully do this, a community must have a long-term plan, some financial backing, and commitments from properly and business owners, local residents, and most importantly, local government officials; an additional key to success is the ability to be innovative. AUDITOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years No Candidates CONSTABLE (Vote for one) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Thomas H Kreckman CHESTNUTHILL TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for not more than two) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Chuck Gould Gilbert D.O.B.: 2/20/1957 EDUCATION: 1975 P.V. Graduate OCCUPATION: Farmer QUALIFICATIONS: Employing Burnley clients at our recycling center, allowing residents to recycle nearly 40 items at no cost. Merging Sun Alley and West End Vol. Fire Depts. saving tax dollars while increasing service. Working with our residents to protect over 2000 acres of open space. ANSWER TO QUESTION: Traffic on state owned Routes 715, 115, 209 and improving the commercial districts on those road. Continue to plan and implement new roadway


projects to help ease the congestion on state Rts 715, 115 and 209. Continue to work with Monroe County Planning Commission and Natural Lands Trust to create model ordinances for commercial re-development. Continue to work with developers to find ways to have positive impacts on traffic, jobs and the environment. REPUBLICAN Alberto Gomez No response DEMOCRATIC Joseph F Kowalczyk Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 9/2/1977 EDUCATION: 1996 Pleasant Valley Graduate 2004 Allentown Business School, Graffic design Diploma OCCUPATION: Union Glazier QUALIFICATIONS: 14 years experience as: Project manager; Job Foreman; Crew Supervisor; Budget management for Multi-million dollar projects ANSWER TO QUESTION: The lack of a strong tax base due to depriving our township of new business is a growing problem. Our residents are forced to take on the burden of picking up the bulk of our taxes. A healthy Tax base can be restored to Chestnuthill township by allowing and inviting new business to prosper in Chestnuthill Township. This will create much needed jobs and help stimulate our current economy. COOLBAUGH TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for not more than two) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Juan John Adams Tobyhanna D.O.B.: 2/3/1960 EDUCATION: 2001 John Jay College B.S. OCCUPATION: Legislative aside for State Representative Mario Scavello QUALIFICATIONS: Legislative aide 5 yrs. ANSWER TO QUESTION: There are two top concerns that I see which need the townships attention: 1. Family sustaining jobs – I will work with the Industrial Development Authority to help attract companies that will pay higher than minimum wage. 2. Community Center – I will work with other building municipalities to check viability of a community center. This center can serve our seniors and children through the year. Finally, I will look to combine services with other municipalities to reduce cost. REPUBLICAN


Frederick Pope Tobyhanna D.O.B.: 7/17/1964 EDUCATION: 1982 Pocono Mountain Sr High School Scotrun PA; 1983 Ohio Diesel Tec. Inst. Cleveland Ohio; 2005 Paccar Institute for Managerial Leadership OCCUPATION: Vice President/General Manager Kenworth of Pennsylvania QUALIFICATIONS: I have been in leadership role for past 12 years at truck dealership. ANSWER TO QUESTION: The Most serious problem in our municipality and our count is “leadership”. Everyone has opinions how to make improvements. Implementation and results are what count. Implementation and results takes leadership. That is what I have to offer. DEMOCRATIC Eileen Mercado Tobyhanna D.O.B.: 2/23/1963 EDUCATION: Interpreter Certification - Pennsylvania Courts (2000); Computer Operations Degree, Fiorello-LaGuardia Community Colleges (1984); William Cullen Bryant HS (1981) OCCUPATION: Production Controller/ Supply Technician -Tobyhanna Army Depot; Contractor (2007 to Present); Budget and financial monitoring of program revenue and expenditures QUALIFICATIONS: 20 Years Business Experience in Budgeting and Computer Operations; Bilingual Interpreter ANSWER TO QUESTION: I consider the most serious problem in our municipality is transparency. Our township needs to explore new ways to communicate and publicize township issues, services and events. This could be accomplished by working with the many property owners associations to update residents with a Township website for Supervisors to reach out to our community for their views on today’s challenges with our economy. I would strongly monitor township budgets to tightly control increases in expenditures. DEMOCRATIC Lynn Kelly Tobyhanna D.O.B.: 2/4/1958 EDUCATION: 1980 Keystone College - Accounting/Business Major, graduated magna cum laude ; 1976 Pocono Mountain High School OCCUPATION: Accountant QUALIFICATIONS: Vice-Chairman Coolbaugh Board of Supervisors; Pocono Mountain Regional Police Commission, 3 years; Pocono Mountain Regional Emergency Medical Services, 2 years; Coolbaugh Township Auditor, 2 years; Vice-Chairman Coolbaugh Township Parks and Recreation Commission, 2 years ANSWER TO QUESTION: The most pressing issue for Coolbaugh Township is the financial challenge of providing quality services to our residents with a reduced revenue base due to the economic recession. We must work together to eliminate wasteful


spending and improve the efficient delivery of the services we provide to the community. Budgets need to be carefully analyzed to ensure we are making the best possible use of our tax dollars so that tax increases are not necessary. AUDITOR (Vote for One) Term: 6 years No candidates DELAWARE WATER GAP BOROUGH COUNCILMEMBER (Vote for not more than three) Term: 4 years DEMOCRATIC Wayne MacWilliams No response CONSTABLE (Vote for One) Term: 6 years No candidates EAST STROUDSBURG BOROUGH - 1st Ward CONSTABLE (Vote for One) Term: 6 years No candidates EAST STROUDSBURG BOROUGH - 2nd Ward COUNCILMEMBER (Vote for one) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN William T Reese East Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 12/23/1946


EDUCATION: 1969, W. Va Wesleyan BS; 1972, ESU - BS-Phys. Ed.; 1975, ESU Masters - Phys. Ed OCCUPATION: Retired Teacher 35 yrs. QUALIFICATIONS: Councilman 2nd Ward-E. Stbg., 28yrs. ANSWER TO QUESTION: Maintain the services we provide in the Borough. Budgeting and spending in a prudent manner. Don’t overspend, no deficit spending. CONSTABLE (Vote for One) Term: 6 years No candidates EAST STROUDSBURG BOROUGH - 3rd Ward CONSTABLE (Vote for One) Term: 6 years No candidates EAST STROUDSBURG BOROUGH - 4th Ward COUNCILMEMBER (Vote for one) Term: 4 years No candidates CONSTABLE (Vote for One) Term: 6 years No candidates EAST STROUDSBURG BOROUGH - 5th Ward COUNCILMEMBER (Vote for one) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Pete Begley East Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 7/19/1963


EDUCATION: Curtis High School, Staten Island, N.Y. College of Staten Island (one year, did not attain degree, majored in electronics.) OCCUPATION: Musician QUALIFICATIONS: Currently the Committeeman for the 5th district, Republican Party. ANSWER TO QUESTION: Balance the budget without increasing taxes. Reduce spending. DEMOCRATIC Victor Brozusky East Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 9/20/1977 EDUCATION: 2000, Bloomsburg University B.S. Business Admin. OCCUPATION: Sales Rep for Morite Embroidery in Mt. Pocono QUALIFICATIONS: Council member 4 years – Past President Kiwanis Club of the Stroudsburgs – Member Zion United Church of Christ Stroudsburg Consistory Board – Past Secretary Lions Club of Stroudsburg – Youth Group Advisor Zion UCC Stroudsburg ANSWER TO QUESTION: I feel the most serious problem in East Stroudsburg is the growing number of state & federal mandates with less & less financial support from the commonwealth and federal govt. I prupose fixing this issue by continuing to work with local & state leaders to make East Stroudsburg an attractive area for responsible industrial growth. This will allow for tax reveur growth without putting more burden on our current residents. It will also allow for the availability of better jobs for our residents. CONSTABLE (Vote for One) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Robert Edinger EAST STROUDSBURG BOROUGH - 6th Ward CONSTABLE (Vote for One) Term: 6 years No candidates ELDRED TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years


REPUBLICAN Sharon F Solt Kunkletown D.O.B.: 8/7/1950 EDUCATION: 1975, Kutztown University, B.S. PSATS classes OCCUPATION: Township secretary-treasurer QUALIFICATIONS: Township Supervisor 5 1/2 yrs., Planning Commissioner 3 yrs. Planning Commission Secretary – 8 yrs. continually enrolled in classes relating to supervisors and leadership responsibilities. ANSWER TO QUESTION: As electricity, petroleum products, machinery, tools, paving and other necessary expenses continue to rise, the township needs to maintain our high quality of service to our residents without raising taxes. In our budgeting process, this always remains a serious concern. Many residents are on a fixed income; to raise taxes would place an undue burden on them. I’ll always strive to maintain our current high standard of service without creating a hardship for our residents. AUDITOR (Vote for One) Term: 6 years No candidates HAMILTON TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Jeff Desind No response DEMOCRATIC Alan L Everett Saylorsburg D.O.B.: 11/18/1955 EDUCATION: Stroudsburg High School OCCUPATION: Township Supervisor Road Crew QUALIFICATIONS: Current – Chairman of the Board – President, Pocono Mountain Council of Governments – Twenty three years Township Supervisor. Past – Six years PSATS Executive Board – Chairman Monroe County Farmland Preservation program – Vice Chair Monroe County Planning Commission – President PA Assoc of Council of Government


ANSWER TO QUESTION: The Biggest job we need to complete is the adoption of the zoning and subdivision and Land Development ordinances. We intend to accomplish that this year. The most serious problem was the rapid residential growth that we already addressed several years ago with the implementation of the buildable acre lot size. Township taxes are not a issue because at one mil, they are the second lowest in the county. DEMOCRATIC Leon Clapper Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 3/10/1960 EDUCATION: H.S. Diploma from Stroudsburg High School; Certificate for Backflow Prevention Testing OCCUPATION: Owner of Leon Clapper Plumbing, Heating & Water Conditioning, Inc. 30 years QUALIFICATIONS: 25 years serving Blue Ridge Hook & Ladder F.C. #1 as Chief; 30 years as a member of the Better Business Bureau ANSWER TO QUESTION: A large concern of mine is that our township does not have a comprehensive plan. I would like to see a plan set forth so that we have focus for the future. One area that needs to be focused on are our roads. I also believe that there are grants available that we can get to meet our goals and not cost additional tax money from our residents. In addition, I will not be taking any of the salary that comes with this position. // AUDITOR (Vote for One) Term: 6 years DEMOCRATIC Dennis W Deshler JACKSON TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Donald C Kresge, Sr No response AUDITOR (Vote for One)


Term: 6 years No candidates MIDDLE SMITHFIELD TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Mike Dwyer Middle Smithfield Website: http://www.DwyerforSupervisor.com D.O.B.: 8/26/1964 EDUCATION: New York University- Certified Construction Cost Estimator, 1994; USGLC- Green Real Estate Specialist, 2010 OCCUPATION: Partner/Principal: Construction Consultant (1989 – present) Professional review of design, financials, zoning and legal for large construction projects. QUALIFICATIONS: Uniquely Related Professional Experience; President, Lake of the Pines; Township Volunteer; coach, EMT, CPR Instructor ANSWER TO QUESTION: Our township Supervisors lack respect for their residents. I intend to rely on my educational and professional experience, reinstate committees/authorities, and return volunteerism to our community while saving substantial expense. I admit that I do not have all of the answers, but I am humble enough to seek community input, professional guidance, and I will respect the office that I am elected. One man is not a township; Community First. REPUBLICAN Scott R Schaller East Stroudsburg Website: www.re-electscott.com D.O.B.: 7/1/1960 EDUCATION: 1978 Stroudsburg High School Graduate; 2005 PASATS Training, Supervisor Training OCCUPATION: 1. Toll Collector Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Comm.; 2. Middle Smithfield Township Supervisor Chairman Treasurer, Administrative Director QUALIFICATIONS: 25 – years Labor Union Business Agent Printers Union; 4 – Middle Smithfield Township Zoning Board; 5 – years Middle Smithfield Township Planning Board; 6 – years Chairman Middle Smithfield Township Supervisors ANSWER TO QUESTION: The hardest task as a supervisor over the past six years has been to get people to accept change. As taxes continue to Increase, the improvement of our infrastructure is important in helping with the tax burden. Bringing new business to Middle Smithfield is the only way to soften this tax burden. Development of our roads and byways will attract business to the corridor of Route 209.


Change is an important part of our future. DEMOCRATIC John Petrizzo East Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 1/22/1953 EDUCATION: Graduated East Stroudsburg High School 1970. Attended Northampton Community College. Graduated from Pennsylvania Municipal Training Course for township auditors, Monroe County Vo-Tech Fire Fighter Training Course, Serve Safe Load Safety, PA Dept. of Transportation CDL. OCCUPATION: Small Business Owner QUALIFICATIONS: I’m the best qualified for this position for a number of reasons. // ANSWER TO QUESTION: Outrageous school taxes & poor quality jobs. I would address the density issue and stem the tide of rising school taxes and work vigorously to attract high paying jobs to help eliminate the massive commuter situation. If elected Chairman of the board I could keep the meetings focused on these prevalent issues. DEMOCRATIC Donald E Halterman East Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 8/27/1952 EDUCATION: East Stroudsburg area High School OCCUPATION: Equipment operator / truck driver QUALIFICATIONS: no response ANSWER TO QUESTION: There are so many things that are serious problems in Middle Smithfield Township. If you read the Pocono Record or watch TV you know about them. I want to change a lot of things that go on but first is road Maintaince the Roads should come before other work. Second is the golf coarse that should be Run by a private firm. Work on Roads has to come first before work at golf coarse by Road crew. // DEMOCRATIC Annette Atkinson East Stroudsburg Website: www.ElectAnnette.com D.O.B.: 12/25/1962 EDUCATION: Management professional with Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Long Island University, C.W. Post Campus; BA from Adelphi University. OCCUPATION: Self-employed business and marketing consultant QUALIFICATIONS: Senior-level business experience, Fortune 500 as well as small business environments; strong focus on new business development and company growth. Skilled community organizer; leading movement to keep strip clubs off 209/away from residences ANSWER TO QUESTION: Along with lack of family-sustaining jobs and eroding home values, Middle Smithfield excludes citizens’ participation. Decisions should not be made


in a vacuum. The disbanding of the Sewer Authority and all committees has caused the residents to lose faith and trust in their local government. I would bring transparency, collaboration, and experienced, non-partisan management, create advisory panels and re-instate committees consisting of talented people with longstanding ties to the community. AUDITOR (Vote for One) Term: 6 years DEMOCRATIC Margaret Law AUDITOR (Vote for One) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Gary Summers DEMOCRATIC Jay E Huffman MT POCONO BOROUGH COUNCILMEMBER (Vote for not more than four) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Shelli Angle No response REPUBLICAN William Jabara No response REPUBLICAN Roy J Gross Mt Pocono Borough D.O.B.: 4/24/1933 EDUCATION: Graduate East Stroudsburg High School 1951; MO of Penn State Ext. courses on Borough Government; and police education


OCCUPATION: Carpenter Allen Gross Const. Cresco; PA QUALIFICATIONS: Comstable 6 yrs, Boro Councilman 28 yrs Pres. & Vice Pres.; Chairman Muncipal Autharty 5yrs; Member Pocono Mountain Regional Police Commision 17 yrs chairman 12 yrs. ANSWER TO QUESTION: Mt. Pocono Boro. Treasure is in financial distress Reasons 1. Coast of health ins. As gone up 15%-20% in the last no. of yrs. 2. Income from property transfer tax has droped of the charts. 3. EIT has gone down because of fewer people are working. Solutions 1. Have Boro employes share coast of there health ins. 2. Keep Boro employe’s wages as low as possible. 3. Try to create more jobs by having more bismess locate in and around Boro of Mt. Pocono. REPUBLICAN Michael Oser Mt Pocono D.O.B.: 9/21/1953 EDUCATION: B.S. – History E.S.U. 1992 OCCUPATION: Site Acquisition Agent QUALIFICATIONS: voter in the district for the elected office ANSWER TO QUESTION: The most serious problem is the complacency of the current borough council which has lead to selective enforcement of the zoning ordinances and laws; lack of oversight for this mismanagement of the Mt. Pocono Municipal Authority and the possible $30 million correction to its operation and the lack of recreational facilities for the residents. To resolve-stronger oversight of the committees and authorities and use recreation taxes for recreation and property near the Council President. DEMOCRATIC Frederick T Courtright No response CONSTABLE (Vote for One) Term: 6 years No candidates PARADISE TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Reda Briglia No response


AUDITOR (Vote for One) Term: 6 years DEMOCRATIC Joyce Raczko AUDITOR (Vote for One) Term: 2 years No candidates POCONO TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Dennis Schmoyer No response REPUBLICAN Ridgley Werkheiser No response DEMOCRATIC Donald Simpson No response AUDITOR (Vote for One) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Bruce Kilby DEMOCRATIC John Bramley


POLK TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years DEMOCRATIC Michael D Hurley Kunkletown D.O.B.: 10/6/1959 EDUCATION: High School Deploma, 2 yrs tech school OCCUPATION: Director of Security for Blue Ridge Communications QUALIFICATIONS: 8 yrs Planning Commishion; 3 yrs Zoneing Hearing Board; 2 yrs Township Supervisor; 12 yrs Chair or CoChair West End Relay For Life ANSWER TO QUESTION: In Polk Twsp. There are no real problems. The Tswp workes well together are meetings are peaceful and Discussions on matters are fair. I would like to maintain the relationship we have with the residents, which is very good. AUDITOR (Vote for One) Term: 6 years DEMOCRATIC Leona Smith PRICE TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years DEMOCRATIC John F Brush No response AUDITOR (Vote for One) Term: 6 years DEMOCRATIC Terri L Cramer


CONSTABLE (Vote for One) Term: 6 years DEMOCRATIC Mark Pugh ROSS TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Russell Butch Kresge No response AUDITOR (Vote for One) Term: 6 years DEMOCRATIC Therese A Doll AUDITOR (Vote for One) Term: 2 years No candidates SMITHFIELD TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Brian E Barrett Shawnee on Delaware D.O.B.: 8/26/1942 EDUCATION: University of Scranton 1960 – 1963, 1965-Major: Bus. Administration OCCUPATION: Supervisor QUALIFICATIONS: Township Supervisor 6 years; 30 year career in Public Services


with Pa. Dept. Labor & Industry working with local citizens, community organizations & businesses ANSWER TO QUESTION: My concerns are somewhat the same as when I was first elected, sustainable growth, preservation of our historic community, it environment and retention and creation of employment opportunities. We must revisit our ordinances and update, strengthen them. We need to place the right projects in the right places. We need to look for open space, recreational opportunities, utilize cost saving alternate energy sources, geo thermal, solar, that will reduce the carbon impact on the environment. AUDITOR (Vote for One) Term: 6 years DEMOCRATIC John Siptroth STROUD TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Paul J Porter Website: www.facebook.com/paul porter for stroud township supervisor D.O.B.: 6/30/1963 EDUCATION: 1981-1983, attended ESU, Computer Science; 1938-1981 East Stbg Area High School OCCUPATION: PA DOT Temp Equipment Operation; Self employed residential construction contractor QUALIFICATIONS: 47 yrs lifelong resident; 30 yrs Residential construction and Heavy Equipment Operator; 2 yrs Assistant Zoning Officer Middle Smithfield Township PA DOT temp equipment operator ANSWER TO QUESTION: The most serious problem in Stroud Township is when there is a problem on Route 80 such as a traffic accident. The re-direction of traffic then flows all through the Stroudsburgs causing all kinds of problems. Kelly Lewis as State Representative started Safe 80, had the speed limit reduced to 55, and was able to enforce it. We need to work with our current State Representatives and PA Dot to maintain safe traffic flow. // REPUBLICAN Christine A Scrofano Website: http://www.facebook/ScrofanoForStroudSupervisor


D.O.B.: 9/12/1970 EDUCATION: 1988 Graduate Stroudsburg HS; Pocono Real Estate Academy Salesperson/Broker license; Graduate Leadership Pike OCCUPATION: Sr. Vice President/Associate Broker QUALIFICATIONS: Stroud native; 20 year Real Estate Career, Property and Office management; Stroud Township Zoning Hearing Board Alternate; Chair Social/Planning Committee PMAR; Past Director & Community Service Chair, PMAR ; Past- President Kiwanis Delaware Valley ANSWER TO QUESTION: While taxes are on everyone’s agenda, it starts with the budget. Controlling spending and making cuts, where cuts are needed without detrimentally affecting our community is important to me. Large expenditures should have a second look. Look at area’s within the Township that could possibly be rezoned to allow for more attractive development that will help expand our tax base/jobs. Look closer at our resources, to get the most out of them we can. REPUBLICAN Brian McCartney Analomink D.O.B.: 8/18/1962 EDUCATION: Cliffside Park High School 1980; ASE: Master Certified Auto/Truck Technician OCCUPATION: Owner MacMobile Vehicle Repair, Mount Bethel PA QUALIFICATIONS: Director Of Operations, S&N Paterson, NJ 15 years; Board of Directors, Penn Estates Property Owners Assoc., 2001 – 2003; Pennsylvania Business Owner, 2003 – present; Treasurer, Stroud Township Volunteer Fire Department, 2007 – Present ANSWER TO QUESTION: Doing more with less: Reduced or eliminated funding from government sources, leaves little alternative except to restructure or reduce cost, while still providing the quality service residents expect. To lessen the impact on local budgets emphasis should be put on grant procurement, all the while partnering with local businesses for employment and tax base expansion. DEMOCRATIC John D Christy Website: [email protected] D.O.B.: 6/11/1957 EDUCATION: 1982 Gannon University; B.A/A.S OCCUPATION: Owner O.M. Christy, a construction consulting company that represents owners in dealing with local government and vendors QUALIFICATIONS: Current member Stroud Township Planning Commission; Past member of Monroe County Railroad Authority Architectural Review Committee; Member for Developments: 1994 - present ANSWER TO QUESTION: Stroud Township has reached the maximum it can tax its residents. Our community pays more per mile for road maintenance than any other. Savings must come from within, by not using the most expensive materials and limiting equipment purchases to that which we need, not want. We need to emphasize job


opportunities and commercial development where zoned. The township needs to value our environment and open space to keep the beauty of the Pocono’s DEMOCRATIC James Decker Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 2/5/1957 EDUCATION: Stroudsburg High School Graduate 1975; Attended Moravian College, Bethlehem PA; Attended Northampton County Community College, Bethlehem, PA OCCUPATION: Stroud Township Roadmaster QUALIFICATIONS: Township Supervisor 18 years; Life member Stroud Tow. Vol. Fire Dept.; Stroud Twp Emergency Management Coordinator – 3 years; Awarded Sterling Schooloven Award for Community Leadership October 2002. ANSWER TO QUESTION: The most serious problem in our municipality is the rate at which our road and bridge network is failing. While most local township roads and bridges are in good condition, the costs associated with maintaining our transportation system is skyrocketing. I have always believed in sound planning and in budgeting appropriately to protect and preserve our infrastructure. I believe in creative financing to manage our assets, and I will continue to promote and support forecasting 5-10 year construction and budget plans. // AUDITOR (Vote for One) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Arthur F Schwedler DEMOCRATIC Anne Fetherman Aaron Charles Didonato STROUDSBURG BOROUGH COUNCILMEMBER- All Wards (Vote for not more than four) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Neil L Allen No response REPUBLICAN Kim Diddio


Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 3/1/1970 EDUCATION: 2000, Widener University School of Law, J.D.; 1993, East Stroudsburg University, B.S. OCCUPATION: Attorney QUALIFICATIONS: Stroudsburg Borough Council, 2004-Present; Jacob Stroud Corporation, Board of Directors, 2004-2007; Stroud Area Regional Police Commission, 2005-2006; Salvation Army Advisory Board, 2009-Present; Timmy’s Town Center Children’s Museum, Board, 2008-Present ANSWER TO QUESTION: Stroudsburg Borough is the most densely populated municipality in Monroe County and is nearly “built out.” Stroudsburg has limited resources insofar as vacant land which poses a unique challenge in encouraging job creation and expanding the tax base. As with most municipalities, our expenses continue to rise, however, the Borough Council must increase our tax base through new business development rather than looking to existing property owners to fill the budget gap. REPUBLICAN Joanne Kochanski Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 12/15/1951 EDUCATION: Kutztown University 1969-1971; Easton High School 1969 OCCUPATION: 19 years Sr. Program Coordinator American Red Cross of the Poconos QUALIFICATIONS: Stbg Councilman- 12years; Stbg Planning Commission 20 yrs; 35 yr member Jr. Womens Club of Stroudsburg; 3 yrs Selection Committee Habitat for Humanity; 20 yrs treasurer Cub Pack 86 ANSWER TO QUESTION: Safety of the residents is a serious problem. We must continue to work with police to provide better protection and response time. We must make sure our vol. firemen have the necessary equiptment to meet the needs of rthe community. We must care for our neighbors and work together as a community to ensure that people will want to live, work and shop in Stroudsburg. REPUBLICAN Eric D Scelza No response CONSTABLE- 3 rd Ward (Vote for one) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Hermann Vollmer


CONSTABLE- 4 th Ward (Vote for one) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Gary Delicati TOBYHANNA TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for not more than two) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN John E Kerrick Pocono Lake D.O.B.: 4/9/1959 EDUCATION: Pocono Mountain 1977 OCCUPATION: Department of Public Works Director; Tobyhanna Twnshp Supervisor; Owner/Proprietor: John H. Kerrick Builder Inc, Hi-Tech Helicopters, Inc QUALIFICATIONS: Life long resident. Dedicated over 30 years public service to township. Business skills extend from storm water management, paving, construction & aviation to communication, management & budgets. 2010 Citizen of the Year–Pocono Lions Club; // ANSWER TO QUESTION: The most serious problem is dealing with the ever increasing amount of federal and state regulations. Local municipalities must voice opposition (Both individually & through organizations like the PA. State Assoc. of Twnshp Supervisors) to regulations that inhibit commercial/industrial development and restrict property owners' rights. I plan to encourage effective land development practices through performance-based regulations along with balanced utilization of natural resources which produces jobs and increases property values. REPUBLICAN Anne M Lamberton Stroudsburg D.O.B.: 11/7/1961 EDUCATION: 1980 Pocono Central Catholic High School; Attended Mt. Aloyisius College/Nursing; East Stroudsburg University/Nursing OCCUPATION: Employeed at Papillon & Moyer Excavating & Paving LLC QUALIFICATIONS: 2nd term/Tobyhanna Twp Planning Commission; Current Tobyhanna Twp Supervisor ANSWER TO QUESTION: The most serious problem is the suffocating regulations. Solution: By restructuring these regulations, we will enable property owners the ability to develop commercial property giving tax relief to the residential properties. This gives opportunities to our township without additional burden on our school. Without


commercial growth, in this current economy, we will continue to lose revenue. That loss coupled with the reduction of state funding jeopardizes the financial stability of every municipality. REPUBLICAN Troy Counterman Blakeslee D.O.B.: 2/2/1967 EDUCATION: 1985 Pocono MTN High School Graduate OCCUPATION: Department of Public Works – Tunkhannock Township QUALIFICATIONS: DPW employee for 12 years; Fire chief For Tobyhanna Township Fire Co – 12 years. ANSWER TO QUESTION: Over spending for work our DPW workers can do (i.e Hiring of Subcontractors.) I would have our own Budgeted Employees do the work to save monies for other nessesary Projects. AUDITOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years No candidates AUDITOR (Vote for One) Term: 4 years No candidates TUNKHANNOCK TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years DEMOCRATIC FRANCIS DE PIANO No response AUDITOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years No candidates


AUDITOR (Vote for One) Term: 4 years No candidates PIKE COUNTY The portions of Pike County that are in the East Stroudsburg School District are included in this guide. Specifically, the ballots for Lehman and Porter Township are listed including County offices, School Directors, and municipal offices. COMMISSIONER (Vote for not more than 2) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Richard A Caridi Website: www.caridiosterberg.com D.O.B.: not given EDUCATION: 1970 - St. Johns – B.S. Business Management; 1975 – St. Johns – MBA OCCUPATION: Pike County Commissioner QUALIFICATIONS: U.S. Marine Corps Veteran; Small Business Owner; Wallenpaupack School Director; Blooming Grove Township Suprvisor; Township/County Planning Commission; Warden – Pike County Correctional Facility; President – Pike County Prison Board; Volunteer Firefighter; Conservation Board; Red Cross Board Member; MH/MR Board; // ANSWER TO QUESTION: Growth!! Encouraging Sustainable Development. During my term of office, the concentration of my efforts have been to increase interaction between County departments and the thirteen municipalities comprising Pike County, utilizing communication, outreach, networking and education. Through fortification of the Conservation District, the Office of Community Planning, and emphasis towards enhancing volunteer emergency services, Pike County government has become a valuable resource tool for local municipal leaders to access grant dollars and professional services to benefit their constituents.

REPUBLICAN Pam Lufty No response

REPUBLICAN Matthew M Osterberg Website: facebook.com/ The Committee to elect Caridi and Osteberg Pike County Commissioner


D.O.B.: 9/4/1957 EDUCATION: 1983, Pennsylvania State University B.A. OCCUPATION: General Manager Luhrs ACE Homecenter Inc Milford Pa QUALIFICATIONS: Milford Borough Council 24 years with 20 years serving as Council President ANSWER TO QUESTION: 1) It is a combination of the 12% unemployment rate and residents that travel out of town for jobs that has me concerned. I believe that a partnership including the county, the Economic Development Authority and the private sector will draw more employers to Pike County and create local jobs for residents. I am confident that, if elected, I will be a diligent partner. We must allow our residents to live and work in this community.

DEMOCRATIC Karl A Wagner, Jr No response DISTRICT ATTORNEY (Vote for one) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Raymond J Tonkin No response

TREASURER (Vote for one) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN John Gilpin No response

PROTHONOTARY/CLERK OF THE COURTS/CLERK OF THE ORPHA NS’ COURT (Vote for one) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Denise Fitzpatrick No response RECORDER OF DEEDS/REGISTER OF WILLS (Vote for one)


Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Sharon Schroeder No response AUDITOR (Vote for not more than two) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Thomas Foran No response REPUBLICAN Ann G Seaman No response DEMOCRATIC Missi Strub No response CORONER (Vote for one) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Kevin T Stroyan No response EAST STROUDSBURG AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT See candidates previously listed Municipal offices are listed in alphabetical order according to borough/township. Only candidates for Township Supervisor were asked to complete the LWV questionnaire. For all other municipal candidates, only their names are listed as they appear on the ballot. QUESTION: What do you consider the most serious problem in your municipality and how would you propose solving it?


LEHMAN TOWNSHIP- #1 SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN John Sivick Bushkill D.O.B.: October 20th EDUCATION: GAR High School; Continuing Educational Classes from Shippensburg State College and Penn State OCCUPATION: Public Works Director / Roadmaster QUALIFICATIONS: Township Supervisor, 17 years; Training in zoning and community planning; Past President of PA Council of Government; Chairman of Pike County Road Task Force; Past member of Pike County Planning Commission ANSWER TO QUESTION: School taxes. Although I (as a township supervisor) cannot solve the school tax problem, I will continue to lobby our State Legislature to not give up on a fair-funding formula. I have worked hard to not raise local taxes while continuing to move our township forward. Another concern is protecting our water and open space, along with making necessary improvements to our roads by working with the leaders in both Monroe and Pike Counties.

DEMOCRATIC Pastor A Felder Website: www.AndreFelder.com D.O.B.: 5/1967 EDUCATION: not given OCCUPATION: Pastor / Tractor-Trailer driver QUALIFICATIONS: For many years I have held servral leadership positions in the church and the community. ANSWER TO QUESTION: The problem that I have with my municipality is being informed about township meetings. Other organizations such as the school board have advertisement of their events/ meetings, whether we choose to read it or not. However, the township does not make this information known to the community so that we can go and have a voice. I propose to solve this problem by notifying the community visa television, newspaper, email, bulletins, and flyers. AUDITOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years DEMOCRATIC Sherese Morris-Wyche


JUDGE OF ELECTIONS (Vote for one) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Joan C Bensley INSPECTOR OF ELECTIONS (Vote for one) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Elaine T Frawley DEMOCRATIC Marjorie Miranda LEHMAN TOWNSHIP- #2 SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years (see info under Lehman #1) REPUBLICAN John Sivick DEMOCRATIC Pastor A Felder AUDITOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years DEMOCRATIC Sherese Morris-Wyche JUDGE OF ELECTIONS (Vote for one) Term: 4 years


DEMOCRATIC Delores Smith INSPECTOR OF ELECTIONS (Vote for one) Term: 4 years REPUBLICAN Andrea Amorsi DEMOCRATIC Vivian Bernikow PORTER TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN William J Powell No response AUDITOR (Vote for one) Term: 6 years No candidates AUDITOR (Vote for one) Term: 4 years No candidates AUDITOR (Vote for one) Term: 2 years No candidates CONSTABLE


(Vote for one) Term: 6 years REPUBLICAN Orville R Kleppinger JUDGE OF ELECTIONS (Vote for one) Term: 4 years No candidates INSPECTOR OF ELECTIONS (Vote for one) Term: 4 years No candidates

Documents

2011 Monroe County Voter Guide