League of Women Voters - Voter Guide - Statewide Races

7/31/2019 League of Women Voters - Voter Guide - Statewide Races

1/15

State Board of Education 8-Year Term Vote for TWO (2)Questions (625 characters each):

QUESTION 1

Describe your background,

experience and qualications

or the State Board o

Education and the reasonsthat you are running or

this ofce.

QUESTION 2

What are your views about

charter schools and cyber

schools and their role in

improving studentachievement and reducing the

education systems cost?

QUESTION 3

What are the most press

issues acing the State B

o Education and wha

actions would you takregarding them?

The State Board o Education has eight members

nd has leadership and general supervision respon-

ibility over all public education, including adult

education and instructional programs in state in-

titutions, except institutions o higher education

granting baccalaureate degrees. It shall serve as the

general planning and coordinating body or all pub-

c education, including higher education, and shall

dvise the legislature as to the nancial require-ments in connection therewith. It shall appoint a

uperintendent o Public Instruction who shall be

esponsible or the execution o its policies.

TODD A. COURSER,Republican

Did Not Respond in time or publication

MELANIE A. KURDYS,RepublicanCampaign Website:

www.melaniekurdys.com

Occupation / Current

Position: Education activist,

math tutor, mom

Education: University oMichigan 1977 B.S. Mathematics

As an active education volunteer and math tutor since

1992, I am rustrated and worried about declining

student achievement and unresponsiveness o the in-

stitutions to meet childrens needs. No one group is to

blame. Te system as a whole is not able to respond

to the individual nature o student learning. Even as a

trustee on the Portage Public School Board, I was not

satised with the level o change implemented to meet

the needs o all children. I believe circumstances arecritical and timing is right or a reorm minded board

to change the nature o the education system in Michi-

gan or each and every child

Research shows engaged parents and excellent teach-

ers are key to every single student learning. Choice o-

ers opportunities to create a system that meets unique

needs o each child. Parents must know their child is

learning and making sustained progress. I not, they

need alternatives. eachers must have the reedom to

teach proessionally, working in a supportive environ-

ment. No single alternative will be a silver bullet, but

a system o choices will meet many diering needs.Choice creates competition, which can help manage

cost. Michigan education is well unded but how we

spend must be reassessed.

Te implementation o Common Core S

Assessments is inappropriate use o time a

Tis must stop. Eorts must be redeploye

and inorm parents and support teachers in

to teach all children. eacher preparation a

proessional development must be a top p

eorts underway to implement teacher eva

tems must be directed to evidence based pr

improve student learning. Integration oprograms into K-12 must be monitored to

current successul models are not negativel

Te State Board must be accountable.

MICHELLE FECTEAU,DemocratCampaign Website:

Facebook:Michelle Fecteau

or State Board o Education


Position: Executive Director

o the WSU Chapter o the American Association

o University Proessors-AF

Education: Dual undergrad degree in Employment

Relations & Political Science, Tematic in Womens

Studies, Michigan State U 1983; Masters in Labor

& Industrial Relations, Michigan State U 1986

Ive been a community & labor activist or over 20

years. Ive worked as an educator at Wayne State and

as executive director o the organization representing

WSU aculty & academic sta. Im the mother o 7 &

wie o a public school special ed teacher. My experi-

ence as a parent provides a unique perspective on our

school system. I have 2 children by birth. My oldest has

autism. My husband & I have been oster parents to 9

children, 5 we adopted. All attended public schools &

aced a variety o challenges. I wi ll advocate or a strong

& responsibly unded system where parents & educa-

tors voices are respected.

I am very cautious about seeing them as a cure to the

ills o public education & I opposed removing the caps

on both. Ive not seen evidence that charters or cybers

are better than traditional area schools. Although a ew

charters have impressive graduation rates & college ac-

ceptance, but weak test scores. From personal experi-

ence Ive not ound any charters that would accept my

son with autism & Im concerned they may lter out

students with greater, & more expensive needs, leaving

traditional schools with an unair nancial burden. Cy-

ber schools are unproven.

It appears the governor would like to revise t

structuring o state education. I am concern

may lead to urther cuts in education und

outcomes are uncertain. I will work to ensu

with independent expertise are included in

tion o proposals and do whatever I can to

grass-root level organizations interested in e

well as those at the grass-root level potentia

LUPE RAMOS-MONTIGNY,Democrat


CANDACE R. CAVENY,GreenCampaign Website: candace-

caveny.org---Youube, enter

Green Party o Michigan

Occupation / Current Position:

emi-retired physician/co-chair

Flint Area Greens

Education: Public schools; AB, Univ o Caliornia;

DO, Chicago College o Osteopathic Medicine;

Board certication, Phys Med & Rehab afer Resi-

dency completed at Wayne State Med School, Detroit

As a ormer certied elementary school teacher inChicago, my children attended public schools & I have

been interested in opportunities or education, both

within & outside schools. Our high school grads need

to know the employment stats or programs. A ew

yrs ago while walking on the streets o Atlanta GA as

a tourist, a young man approaching rom the opposite

direction called out to me, What does innovative

mean? So I called back, it means trying new ideas,

& we passed each other without stopping. Tis is an

example o what I term the University o the streets,

which is a orm o net-working.

Charter schools are Public Schools, unded by tax-payer dollars, plus any addtl grant monies that might

be awarded. Each school is chartered by a college with

a degree-granting education dept. In Lapeer, our Bd

o Educ has retained oversight & has NO hired an

outside or-prot company to administer the unds-

--admission is thru names drawn by lot. Lapeer has

opened its rst cyber-school now & will evaluate its

results; Cyber school may provide a benecial alterna-

tive to expelling students or inractions w/out turn-

ing them onto the streets (I am a ormer Juvenile Court

caseworker in Chicago .)

All teachers want to prevent students rom dwork WRONG & I see new opportunites

appropriate computer programs to make su

are practicing spelling, matching words to

CORRECLY. Carrolton Schools have wo

4-yr leasing program to put these programs

classrooms. Doing more with ewer tax dol

our schools to ofen share curriculum d

between school districts. Bldgs are being cl

ered or sale & we may need to have campu

classroom trailers o mixed grades. Anti-bu

grams are required by law, at last.

DWAIN REYNOLDS III,Green


ANDY LeCUREAUX,Libertarian


KAREN ADAMS,US Taxpayers


GAIL M. GRAESER,US Taxpayers


26 H LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOERS OF MICHIGAN2012 NONPARTISAN VOTER GUIDE


2/15

University of Michigan Board of Regents 8-Year Term Vote for TWO (2)Questions (625 characters each):

QUESTION 1



or the university board

and the reasons that you arerunning or this ofce.

QUESTION 2

Is a college degree still worth

the high price students and

their amilies pay? Can you

suggest ways to keep costs tostudents down?

QUESTION 3

What are the most pres

issues acing the univer

today and what actions w

you take regarding the

The Universi ty Board has eight members and

has general supervision o the university and the

control and direction o all expenditures rom

the institutions unds. The board shall elect a

university president who shall be the principal

executive ofcer.

DAN HORNING,RepublicanCampaign Website:

Horningorregent.com


Position: Regent Emeritus,

Te University o Michigan.

Managing Director,

Northwestern Mutual.

Education: Graduate, Te University o Michigan

I had the distinct honor to serve the citizens o Michi-

gan as a member o the Board o Regents rom 1995-

2002. I chose not to seek re-election (2002) to spend

time with my amily and ocus on my business. Afer

10 years, Ive watched tuition nearly double, university

salaries and benets continue to escalate and students

who cannot understand the oreign language their pro-

essor or teaching assistant is speaking. ENOUGH IS

ENOUGH! Im prepared to challenge the status quo!

YES, a college degree is well worth it! HOWEVER, its

critical that we nd ways to lower costs and not sim-

ply allow students to borrow more money! Its also

very important the University o Michigan continues

to promote more opportunities or in-state students.

We need our students to remain in Michigan afer

they graduate. Discounts should be available to those

students who complete their studies early, and also to

those who remain in Michigan afer graduation.

My campaign platorm has been based on t

mon goals. FIRS, to increase enrollme

Michigan high school students. Ive witnes

many out-o-state and international stu

are being granted admission to the UoM

wonderul and very qualied Michigan h

students are being lef behind. SECOND,

mand that the UoMs admissions policies b

academic merit and not on minority quotas

I will request an immediate 5 year reeze

housing rates and student ees. Its param

lower costs trump massive student loan deb

ROB STEELE,RepublicanCampaign Website:

www.drrobsteeleorregent.com


Position: Practicing

Cardiologist, ull time. Former

Clinical Asst Pro Univ O Mich Med School, 20 years

Education: Univ o Michigan AB, MD 1981(age 23).

Univ o Cincinnati Internal Medicine. Washington

University/Barnes Hospital Fellowship Cardiology. Board

Certied Int Med, Cardiology, Interventional Cardiology

Over a dozen UM degrees in amily including Grand-

mother 1924(Chair, Cont Ed or Women UM, National

Co-Chair rst UM Endowment Campaign 1964,and

Grandather 1925-UM Football 1920-24, Collegiate

AD Hall o Fame. Father/Grandather each spent 40

yrs in public education. Founding member o private

cardiology practice, grew to >300 employees, Chair o

Finance/Benets. Former Board Member o Club Wol-

verine and major Healthcare Non Prot. 4 o 6 Billion

in UM budget is Medical. I have > 25 yrs experience in

business operations, medical practice, medical educa-

tion and clinical research. 7/8 Regents have law degree

Higher Ed remains valuable, but the relative benet o

many college degrees has shrunken with escalating tu-

ition. For many degrees the investment is no longer au-

tomatically a good one. Te solution is not more loans,

debts and subsidies. Te student/amily need rm goals

when determining what type o higher ed is required-

where it will be obtained and nature o degree. Better

use o the physical plant-oer discounts or Summer

credits-students get degree earlier,start earning sooner

and university increases revenue and spreads xed

capital costs. Use endowment as the source o student

loans rather than ed $.

As a public Univ, UM must play a greater r

ing secure Michigans uture. Te >150 y

appropriation to UM served as the Vent

that allowed creation o the $7.8 Billion e

Te state needs a better return on investm

ed Michigan HS grads must be a priorit

residents, though we must continue to recr

best out o state students. Until the broken

is xed domestic students should have den

over oreign students. SEM degree gradu

be encouraged to stay in Michigan via tui

program unded by the endowment.

MARK BERNSTEIN,DemocratCampaign Website:

www.MGoBernstein.com


Position: Attorney

Education: University o

Michigan, B.A., University o Michigan, J.D.,

University o Michigan, M.B.A.

Mark Bernstein is a proud product o Michigans pub-

lic education system - rom kindergarten to earning

three degrees rom U-M. Bernstein is r unning to make

college aordable...o stop skyrocketing tuition and

control crushing student debt. He is uniquely qualied

to serve as a U-M Regent. At the White House, Mark

worked in the Clinton Administration - helping to pro-

mote an agenda that produced the largest economic

expansion o college opportunity since the GI Bill. In

business, Mark helps businesses drive innovation and

growth. In courtrooms and communities, he ghts to

make sure everyone gets a air shake.

Higher education has never been more important or

more EXPENSIVE. Skyrocketing tuition is pushing

college out o reach, while crushing student debt bur-

dens amilies and slows our economic recovery. Mak-

ing college aordable requires 1) Voting against tuition

increases, 2) Controlling costs (utilities, health care,

operating expenses, salaries, etc.), 3) Increased utiliza-

tion o aculty/acilities, 4) Adoption o digita l platorm

or revenue and cost eective delivery o content, 5) Is-

suance o Go Blue Bonds - low or no interest student

loans issued by U-M to students, 6) Fight to increase

higher education unding.

College OPENS many doors, but the door

are CLOSING or Michigans working am

rocketing tuition (up 121% since 1997) an

student debt (up 74% over past decade) are

two most pressing issues acing U-M (and

universities) today. Te path through excep

lic schools to extraordinary public univer

be protected or every Michigan amily.

DO BEER. o stop skyrocketing tuition

ght tuition increases. o control student

will promote Go Blue Bonds (U-M bon

brains at a very low (or zero) i nterest rate

SHAUNA RYDER DIGGS,Democrat


JAMES LEWIS HUDLER,Libertarian


GREGORY SCOTT STEMPFLE,

Libertarian


Remember to vote on November 6.

Continues on

LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOERS OF MICHIGAN2012 NONPARTISAN VOTER GUIDE H


3/15

University of Michigan Board of Regents 8-Year Term Vote for TWO (2)

Questions (625 characters each):QUESTION 1



or the university boardand the reasons that you are

running or this ofce.

QUESTION 2



their amilies pay? Can yousuggest ways to keep costs to

students down?

QUESTION 3



today and what actions wyou take regarding the

The Univers ity Board has eight members and



he institutions unds. The board shall elect a


executive ofcer.

JOE SANGER,US TaxpayersCampaign Website:

www.VoteJoeSanger.com


Position: Retired Certied

Public Accountant. For prior

work history see www.VoteJoeSanger.com.

Education: St. Marys School, Rockwood, MI

943-1951; Slocum ruax High S chool, renton, MI951-1955; BA (Economics) University o Michigan

une 1958; MBA (with high distinction) University o

Michigan 1966.

When I was a reshman at the University o Michigan

in 1955 the ull time (12-18 credit hours) resident un-

dergraduate tuition rate at the College o Literature,

Science and the Arts was $100 per semester. For the

rst semester o the 2012-2013 academic year the

comparable charge is $6400 per semester an increase

o 6300%. At the same time, the price index as mea-

sured by the Federal Reserve Bank o Minneapolis has

increased rom 26.8 to 232.4 an increase o 767% Over

the past 57 years, University o Michigan tuition has

increased by 8.21 times the rate o ination. A totallyunconscionable price increase.

1. Videotape and place on line all classes so that stu-

dents may save money by learning at home and report-

ing only twice a semester on campus or at testing sites

in major cities to take a mid-term and a nal exam. 2.

Operate the University ull time or 3 semesters each

year to reduce the time required to earn a bachelors

degree to 2 years and 8 months or those who wish to

expedite the learning process. 3. All required courses

should be available on-line or all students at all times

so that no student is required to attend an extra year

to complete required courses. 4. Encourage vigorousanti trust action.

1. Out o control costs (o cite just one ex

cording to Michigan Capitol Condential, t

sity pays up to $30,000 per year in energy

or its Presidents mansion). 2. Out o con

increases. We call or vigorous ederal an

tion against all o our major universities an

i necessary to roll back tuition to inatio

1955 levels. 3. Federal and state law should b

o the Financial Aid Form which permits U

to determine the maximum amount they

rom each student and parent. 4. See my weVoteJoeSanger.com

GERALD T. VAN SICKLE,US Taxpayers


NIKKI MATTSON,

Natural Law


ERIC BORREGARD,GreenCampaign Website:

https://www.acebook.com/

EBorregard

Occupation / CurrentPosition: President EB

Graphics LLC

Education: Broadcasting Major Madonna University

Associates Applied Science, OCC

Im small business owner and I have taught at the high

school level and seen rsthand the changes in our pub-

lic schools. I am also a student at Madonna University

so I know the plight young people ace today trapped

in our university system. I have a son who attended the

U o M so I know what its like or the parents and citi-

zens who are being ripped o by the school. Ive writ-

ten and lecturer on educational issues and debated on

the topic many times. As a television producer I have

produce a variety o public interest broadcasts. In 1998

l was the Reorm candidate or the State Board o Edu-

cation

Te degree is worth it but what the schools are charg-

ing or it is not. Im highly optimistic about the cost o

education dropping dramatically over the next decade.

Everything is going online. In 10 to 20 years expensive

inecient brick and mortar universities like the U o

M will be history, so take as many classes as you can

online. For the University o Michigan the choice is

clear, become a leading innovator in the global online

revolution or go the way o the dodo bird. Tey could

still catch up with the industry leaders like Phoenix

and Kaplan, but the train is pulling away rom the sta-

tion ast.

Te biggest issue is prosecuting waste,

abuse. Te Board o Regents spends pub

like the Pentagon. Te U o Ms assets tota

lion, including 7.8 billion in endowment a

billion in capital assets, 2.9 billion hospital &

Students tuition goes to a 1. 8 billion genera

und including 270 million in state aid, thou

cent are non-resident students. Tis is light y

than any other state university or even scho

has. By contrast Detroit Public Schools ass

billion 90 cents out o every state aid dollar

327 million debt.

Michigan State University Board of Trustees 8-Year Term Vote for TWOMELANIE FOSTER,RepublicanCampaign Website:

www.osterormsu.com


osition: President o

einhold Landscape-20 years.

urrently manage a personal real estate portolio.

ducation: Michigan State University,

.S. Ornamental Horticulture

It has been my privilege to serve on the MSU Board

o rustees or the past 7 years. I am the current Vice

Chair o the Board and I also serve on the MSU Foun-

dation Board. For 20 years I owned and operated a

commercial landscape rm with oces in 4 states,

and have experience in budgeting, stang and project

management. My business background and experience

in public higher education have enabled me to provide

sound scal oversight, and serve as a leader and v ision-

ary. I am committed to maintaining the ounding land

grant values o MSU as the University grows to meet all

o todays academic and research needs

College graduates typically make more in lietime

wages than non-graduates, which points to higher ed-

ucation being a sound investment. Fewer than hal o

MSUs students graduate with debt, which is 17% less

than the national average. MSU is ranked by U.S. News

and World Report as one o the top 50 b est value public

universities in the nation. As state unding has dimin-

ished by over 27% over the last decade, it is dicult

to maintain academic quality without raising tuition.

o balance increases I advocate or reducing admin-

istrative costs and requiring employee concessions so

students dont bear the burden alone.

Michigan tax dollars support MSU, and e

numbers must overwhelmingly avor Mic

dents. Over 80% o MSUs undergraduate st

rom Michigan, but there is pressure rom th

istration to raise out o state and oreign e

numbers to generate higher revenue. Higher

costs need to be reigned in across the board

to rise at a rate higher than the CPI. Since t

o the Michigan Civil Rights Initiative, I hav

the will o the voters in not using armitav

admissions policies, and insist that MSU ad

Michigan Constitution.

Continued from pg. 27



4/15

Michigan State University Board of Trustees 8-Year Term Vote for TWQuestions (625 characters each):

QUESTION 1



or the university board and

the reasons that you arerunning or this ofce.

QUESTION 2





QUESTION 3





JEFF SAKWA,RepublicanCampaign Website:

http://www.JeSakwa.com


Position: President o Noble

Realty Inc. I specialize in bro-

kerage, development, consulting and home building.

Education: Graduate o Michigan State University

with a degree in accounting

Afer graduating MSU, I built a real estate company,

lead an anti-bullying eort, and volunteer at my chil-

drens school. Im running or MSU rustee so I can

help ensure that the university prepares our students to

excel in a rapidly changing world. I have grown com-

panies, managed construction projects and balanced

budgets. I know how important it is to invest or the

uture, stay competitive, and be accountable to cus-

tomers. With tuition increasing, MSU must continue

to grow and improve while also living within its means

so education can remain aordable.

Yes, depending on the quality o education and the

students educational goals. Statistics show that college

degrees lower unemployment rates and increase me-

dian earnings. Online learning can expanded to save

on campus and commuter costs. Lectures and course

content can be housed online or ree, and sel-study

programs can be implemented. Community colleges,

too, are a great and aordable rst step toward our uni-

versities. Michigan State should enact sensible reorms

in how it administers its budget in order to keep costs

down, including privatizing services.

Besides cost, preparing students to compete

challenging economy is a top issue. I wou

ensure that our curriculum is world class

ine our course oerings and proessors, u

bottom-up review to lay a benchmark or ou

and invite leaders rom academia, govern

the private sector to oer their insights. I

seek partnerships with businesses so studen

quality experience in the proessional world

in the classroom. Finally, I would measure

so we know whether we have made progr

proving outcomes or our students.

JOEL FERGUSON,DemocratCampaign Website:

n/a

Occupation / Current Position: Developer

Education: BA in Elementary Education rom

Michigan State University

I eel my 24 years o service on MSU Board o rustees,

elected the last 6 years as Chair by my ellow rustees,

has given me the opportunity to directly impact the d i-

rection o MSU. My experience and decisions are cali-

brated in such a way that combines my own personal

background o public service along with my business

experience and credentials have increased both the

prole and the stature o MSU nationally and across

the world as a top-tier research university. I am dedi-

cated leader and advocate or MSU and Higher Educa-

tion, I eel my accomplishments reect my success as a

member o the B oard o rustees at MSU.

A college education is one o the best values in a per-

sons lie. I know this because I mysel worked my way

through MSU by working midnights at Oldsmobile, so

I truly understand why students are concerned with

the costs o a college. Tis is my most important con-

cern as a trustee. Te ability to demonstrate an edu-

cated mind with reasoning skills, the ability to problem

solve and manage ones abilities eectively are critical

or success. I will continue to work with both State and

Federal governments to ensure air and equal unding

at MSU to provide equal access or all students rom all

incomes and backgrounds.

Our most pressing issue is to ensure mana

ition rates through air and equal State a

unding levels to allow or every student th

ed and applying to MSU be able attend.

tinue to ght or more State monies, as Mich

48th out o 50 or per student unding. As

role as trustees is to continue to manage

tional responsibilities and costs in such a w

balanced, air and equitable. Tis includes

current expenditures and increasing our MS

ment und. I will continue to work hard

reputation as a world class university.

BRIAN MOSALLAM,DemocratCampaign Website:votemosallam.com

Occupation / Current Position: Financial Advisor

Education: B.A. Engineering Arts

I am an MSU graduate, I was Cum Laude with a B.A

in Engineering Arts and a three-year letter winner and

Co-Captain o the 1996 MSU ootball team. I am in my

16th year as a Financial Advisor or AXA-Advisors outo roy. I am one o the top producers in the country

as well as a 2008 inductee into the AXA Hall o Fame.

I am concerned that higher education is b ecoming out

o reach or middle class amilies due to high cost o

tuition. We need to control costs and make sure that

MSU is maximizing its ability to turn research dollars

and the classroom experience into jobs and busines-

sess throughout Michigan.

I will use my experience as a nancial advisor to thor-

oughly review the MSU budget. As a rustee, I will be

personally involved in raising money or the Univer-

sity, especially to assist in scholarship unds. Long termthe cost o a college degree is worth the cost, but it is

putting our working amilies in a very dicult nan-

cial situation.

Te two most pressing issues are the spiral

tuition and the need or more job creation.

be able to control rising costs at the unive

also making tuition aordable or Michiganamilies. We also need to make sure that MS

mizing its ability to create jobs and busin

benet every region o the state. Te researc

the university in the elds like physics and

should be used as a job creation engine or

state.

MICHAEL H. MILLER,Libertarian


BILL MOHR II,US Taxpayers


STEPHEN J. YOUNG,US TaxpayersOccupation / Current

Position: Facilities Manager

Education: Military and

commercial Electronics

echnician, Nuclear Power

echnician, Senior Reactor Operator USNRC.

Ordained preacher.

Military and commercial instructor in the nuclear, re-

rigeration and electrical elds.

No, most degrees are over priced and students are un-

der educated. Cut salaries o collage sta. Cut sports

programs and stick to education.

Socialism / humanism being taught as the

ciety and seems to be included in every d

gram. Cut unds on worthless programs.

LLOYD CLARKE,

Green







executive ofcer.



5/15

Wayne State University Board of Governors 8-Year Term Vote for TWOQuestions (625 characters each):

QUESTION 1





QUESTION 2





QUESTION 3










executive ofcer.

MICHAEL BUSULTO,RepublicanOccupation / Current

Position: Clinical Associate

Proessor, Wayne State Uni-

versity School o Medicine

Education: B.S. University o

Michigan - 1976 M.D. Wayne

State University School o Medicine - 1981

I have been on the clinical aculty at the WSU School

o Medicine since 1988 and I work with WSU students

on a daily basis and understand their problems. I have

been actively involved in governmental aairs at the

school or several years. I am running or this oce

because o my loyalty to the school, but, more impor-

tantly, I have 6 children and I want to contribute to

improving higher education in the Detroit community

or their sake and the sa ke o their generation.

I saw a recent news story that ollowed the nancial

security o a student who graduated with a B.S. rom

Harvard vs. a high school graduate who works or the

Caliornia prison system. Extrapolating through re-

tirement, the prison guard was more successul than

the Harvard graduate when analyzing or nancial se-

curity. Tis warrants an evaluation o return on invest-

ment in a college degree. o keep costs down I believe

that institutions o higher learning must re-evaluate

costs on a line by line basis, consider more on-line in-

struction and re-evaluate the tenure system and associ-

ated cost to benet ratios.

Rising tuition costs and the ailure to retain o

est students in the state are major issues toda

that there needs to be a stronger cooperatio

the business community in the state and co

grams that prepare or the proessions an

careers. I more internships and externshi

developed in the business community or ou

businesses might be willing to aid in coverin

tuition in return or loyalty and retention.

SANDRA HUGHES OBRIEN,

DemocratCampaign Website:

www.acebook.com/

obrien4wsugovernors


Position: Mrs. OBrien is the

principal owner o the OBrien Law Oce, PLLC,

ocated in Northville, Michigan

Education: J.D. (Juris Doctorate) Detroit College o

Law at Michigan State University (August, 1998); B.S.(Bachelor o Science) Grand Valley State University

(April, 1990)

As the product o public education rom kindergarten

to college, I am keenly aware o the opportunities that

a public education opens or all people, regardless o

who you are and where you come rom. As an attorney,

I advocate or the public on a daily basis. Tose advo-

cacy skills will assist me on the Board o Governors as I

advocate or aordable tuition, college accessibility and

improvement o retention and graduation rates.

Yes. Nothing opens the door o opportunity like a col-

lege education. Most amilies realize this; however, our

State legislators have shifed their priorities away rom

public education and along with that shif goes proper

unding or our public education institutions rom

K-12 to higher public education. Michigan spends

more State budget dollars on corrections and medicaid

than public education and our students suer as a re-

sult. Increased state aid along with University Admin-

istrators commitment to run as eciently as possible,

will go a long way in reducing the high price students

and their amilies pay.

Increased opportunity and access; aordab

With State unding or higher public educa

decline, our public universities have becom

dependent upon student tuition. Tese cuts

or students. In act, Michigan students ca

heavier load than other states. Students su

goes up in order to ll the gap in univers

and theyre orced to take on increasing d

crease their time to complete their degrees

work their way through school. I would a

State adoption o a revenue system that i

stable and air.

SATISH B. JASTI,

Republican

Did Not Respond in time or publicaton

KIM TRENT,DemocratCampaign Website:

http://www.trent4wsu.com


Position: Student

Recruitment Manager or

Michigan Future Inc.

Education: Wayne State University: Bachelors o

Arts (Journalism and Aricana Studies), Masters o

Arts (Communications). University o Cape own

(South Arica): Post Graduate Diploma, AricanStudies.

I am running or the Wayne State University Board o

Governors because I am passionate about the need to

prepare Michiganders to compete in the knowledge-

based economy. In my current proessional lie, I work

closely with college preparatory high schools and my

career has included stints as an aide to high-ranking

Michigan elected ocials and as a political reporter

or a major newspaper. Tose roles have exposed me

to opportunities to closely monitor and analyze higher

education policies in Michigan and understand the po-

litical climate in Michigan that has led to the disinvest-

ment that has stymied schools like WSU.

Tere is little doubt that a college degree is one o the

best investments a student and government can make.

A recent Georgetown University and Lumina Foun-

dation study ound that even in the worst days o the

recent recession, the economy added 200,000 jobs or

workers with a bachelors degree. College degree hold-

ers earn an average o $1.3 million more over a lietime

than those without a degree. As a member o the WSU

Board, I will work with the administration to keep the

schools budget lean and nimble. I will also use the bully

pulpit to push state leaders to invest more in WSU to

help keep tuition costs in check

I am very concerned about Wayne State

student retention and graduation rates. I

cate or expansion o the universitys partn

high-quality community colleges to provid

oundation or students who enter college

or the academic rigor o a our-year institu

WSUs absymal six-year graduation rate

black students, I also support the developm

demic support systems or students o colo

concerned about tuition aordability and w

more state investment in the university.

ROBERT GALE,US TaxpayersOccupation / Current

Position: Sel Employed Businessman

Education: I attended MCCU and MSU.

I attended MCCU and MSU. Sel employed business-

man. Business and management backround. I am run-

ning or the WSU board to make a dierence. I am a

taxpayer and not a politician like my opponents the

Democrats, Republicans and Green party candidates.

Te price o a college degree is spiraling out o control.

I support lowering costs to students by eliminating all

contributions to politicians with university, taxpayer or

student money! As your WSU Governor I will get more

support rom business and labor.

Tere are to many special interest groups pr

own issues. I will support reviewing all d

and programs and taking appropriate action



6/15

Wayne State University Board of Governors 8-Year Term Vote for TWOQuestions (625 characters each):

QUESTION 1





QUESTION 2





QUESTION 3








he institutions unds. The board shall elect a


executive ofcer.

MARC J. SOSNOWSKI,US TaxpayersCampaign Website:

www.acebook.com/marc.

osnowski.committee


Position: Sel-employed in

guest service operation o a corporate housing

program; and also rep in Youngevity.

Education: MBA, 2009, Cornerstone University,

Summa cum Laude. Baccalaureate, 1978,

UM-Dearborn, Environmental Studies. Diploma,1974, Detroit Catholic Central High School.

From a 30-year business background, I bring cost-

benet concepts to planning o University programs.

Change and growth do not necessarily mean just

adding to what we already have. From a 30-year ex-

perience in bio-ethics, I bring values that transcend

cost-benet analysis. Cruelty can never be accepted

in research animals, nor can mutilation be accepted in

medical studies or medical practice, in our University.

From a 30-year experience as a taxpayer, I have a say,

along with the 7 million other adults in Michigan, in

the operation o the University, according to the State

Constitution.

Education is priceless. Paying or education, though,

has become a pain. o reverse the trend o ever-in-

creasing tuition rates, consider supply and demand.

Decrease the demand or revenue-spending programs,

with the supply o sources or revenue remaining the

same, and the price will go down, as represented as

tuition. Tis is particularly true in the Restricted Bud-

getary items o government grants. Te supporting evi-

dence is that tuition has not decreased as government

grants have increased. Could it be that accountability

is missing?

Te rising cost o tuition needs to be addre

cally not sentimentally, so some things will

lined or privatized to be accountable in

Quality o research needs to b e preerred ov

o research, with proessors seeking recog

advancement, so that unnecessary progra

avoided, such as inhumane treatment o res

mals. Most importantly, the WSU Mission

is just plain wrong, to create knowledge.

knowledge, and truth, are sel-evident as in

ration o Independence. ruth is not created

MARGARET GUTTSHALL,GreenCampaign Website:

www.margaretguttshall.org


Position: Retired law

ibrarian / Writer

Education: University o Chicago, Roosevelt

University, Wayne State University: Masters in

Library Science

When I rst worked at WSU Law School opening and

sorting mail, I imagined WSU as part o a system o

public education ree to everyone rom kindergarten

through a Ph.D. When I came back to WSU, working

on a Masters in Library Science and as a reerence as-

sistant, I imagined even more. Te U.S. government

stops bombing our neighbors and spends our tax

money on things people need in the U.S. and every-

where. I like what I imagine to come true. Tis is a big

struggle. I would like WSU to be one o the centers o

this struggle. Tis is why I am running or the Board.

Studying is a wonderul thing to do. College degrees

are an indication o what you have studied. We need

to spend our tax money on a ree public education sys-

tem, instead o on personnel, planes, ries and bombs

to kill our neighbors. We can oer the world so much

-- water, ood, sanitation acilities, housing, healthcare,

education, transportation, science, engineering, art,

music, dancing. Tink about what we can oer instead

o bombs!

Students debts and money are the most p

sues. I would like to pass legislation to orgiv

debts. We also need money to pay people w

tuition, or new buildings and equipment.

the people and education, not the billionair

and war!

LATHAM REDDING,Green

Did Not Respond in time or publicaton

Writein Candidates

To writein the name of a person not on the ballot and have yourvote count:I you want to write in the name o someone who is not on the ballot, you may do so in the space

provided. Write-in votes will be counted only i that person has led a declaration o intent to be awrite-in candidate as required by law.

I there is a race in which a candidate whose name is printed on the ocial ballot or the electiondies or is otherwise disqualied on or afer the Wednesday immediately beore the election, no delaration o intent is necessary. In such a case, the board o election inspectors will count all write-i

votes or the write-in candidates or the oce sought by the deceased or disqual ied candidate.

To declare yourself as a writein candidate:You must le a declaration o intent to be a write-in candidate with the ling ocial or the oceyou seek on or beore 4 p.m. on the second Friday immediately beore the election (or the November 6 general election, that would be Friday, October 26).



7/15

Michigan Supreme Court Justice - 8-year term Vote for up to TWO (2)Questions (625 characters each):

QUESTION 1

Describe your background, ex-

perience and qualications or

the Michigan Supreme Court

and the reasons that you are


QUESTION 2

What are your views regarding

the ndings o the bipartisan

Michigan Judicial Selection

Task Force which recommend-

ed ull disclosure o campaign

unding, nominations to Su-

preme Court by nonpartisan

primary, and an advisory

commission or gubernatorial

appointments?

QUESTION 3

What is your vision or t

uture o our judicial syst

What changes would you

vocate and why?

DOUG DERNOccupation / Current

Position: Attorney

Education:

BA Oaklahoma University. JD Tomas Cooley

My background is in General practice and Bankruptcy

law.As bankruptcy law touches every area o law and

increases qualication beyond a normal background.

I am running or the Supreme Court because I have

no loyality except to justice. I am not a an o specialinterests or PACs and I accept no unds rom either.

I am aligned with justice. I have seen so many ruling

coming out o the Court that I think were policitally or

religously driving. I think a justice needs to look at the

past the present and uture and listen to the acts with

no political agenda. It makes it tough when Judges are

elected.

It think it is a step in the right direction. I mean ull

disclosures helps keep special interests rom inuenc-

ing or legal system. Tat is a dicult task.

My vision is to maintain the current justice

the Constitution o thie State. Michigan i

State and my mission is to protect what we

I think there has been a drindling o our

in recent years and I have seen some decithink are geared to supress certain classes. A

a job to protect the basic rights o all. I t

times certain justices spend to much time o

and orget what it like in the real world. I w

the resh blood with new ideas to get the cu

system back in line.

Judicial Candidates appear in the NONPARTISAN section of the ballot

The Michigan Supreme Court is the states highest

court and makes the nal determination and inter-

pretation o Michigans laws. It supervises all other

state courts.

CONNIE MARIE KELLEYCampaign Website:

www.conniekelleyorjustice.

com


Position: I am a judge in the

Family division o t he Wayne

County Circuit Court.

Education: I received a BA rom University o

Michigan, and my juris doctorate rom Wayne

State University Law School.

As a Wayne County Circuit Court judge, I preside over

amily cases, including divorce, custody, child support,

and parenting time issues. I was instrumental in the

creation o a domestic violence prevention court as

well as a mentoring program or at-risk high school

girls. Beore I was elected to serve as a judge, I was a

lawyer or 27 years, practicing in courts throughout the

state o Michigan. I am seeking a seat on the Michigan

Supreme Court to bring my 31 years o experience as alawyer and a judge, protecting amilies and children, to

the highest court in Michigan.

I applaud the eorts o this great bipartisan group to

nd solutions to the problems in the current system

o electing the members o the Supreme Court. I en-

thusiastically support reorm measures which require

ull disclosure o all campaign donations so the voting

public is aware o each candidates nancial supporters.

I also support eorts to make the selection o Supreme

Court Justices less partisan, which would increase the

publics condence that the decisions made by theCourt are based on the law and not on any political

point o view.

I would like to see a Court that issues opini

based on the law, and not repeatedly makin

along party lines, or based upon the money

ence o powerul special interest groups. I

the Court to have the condence o the pub

be above the politics o the day. Tis requ

who are principled, respectul, thoughtul,

to hear both sides o every case, and who

the legal precedents which have been well over the years.

STEPHEN MARKMANCampaign Website:

www.MarkmanForJustice.com


Position: Justice, Michigan

Supreme Court

Education: BA, Duke

University, 1971; JD, Univer-

sity o Cincinnati Law School, 1974

I have served on the Court since 1999. Beore that, I

served in private practice in Detroit; as the ederal pros-

ecutor in Michigan; and as Assistant Attorney General

in the Justice Dept. I was bipartisanly conrmed by the

Senate or the latter two positions. I have been part o

a Court that has: (1) strengthened the criminal justice

system within our state; (2) reduced levels o litigation

by rendering the law more clear and predictable; and

(3) restored traditional notions o personal responsibil-

ity to our civil justice system. I would like to continue

this work on behal o a air and responsible judiciary.

I agree with some proposals o the ask Force and dis-

agree with others. I agree that ull disclosure should

be required or all contributions and outside expendi-

tures. I also agree that there should be public debate

concerning what I see as the greatest current threat to

the integrity o the Court, the perception by members

o the public that ever-more costly campaigns are im-

pacting judicial decisions. I do not agree with propos-

als that would skew the selection process in avor o

lawyer control and inuence, or that would make it

more dicult or candidates lacking avored surnames

rom competing or the Court.

My vision is that o a Court in which ev

decision is the product o the equal rule

describes a Court in which there are no thu

scales o justice, no politics by another n

courtroom, no partisan decisionmaking, a

cial constituencies. Tis also describes a Cou

decisions are made according to the law, an

basis o the personal inclinations or sympat

and dislikes o the judge. Our great constitu

tage is the rule o law, in which all stand e

that law, and not the rule o individual judg

BRIDGET MARYMcCORMACKCampaign Website:

www.mccormackforjustice.com


Position: Proessor and Asso-

ciate Dean o Clinical Aairs,

University o Michigan

Education: Undergraduate in political science and

philosophy at rinity College, graduating in 1988

with highest honors. JD rom New York University

School o Law.

I am the oldest o three children. My dad, a Marine

Corp veteran, ran a small business. My mom was a so-

cial worker. My younger siblings are actors.I attended

rinity College in Hartord, C, and NYU Law School.

Upon graduating law school, I worked as a Legal Aid

lawyer in NYC. I taught at Yale or two years beore

I came to Michigan in 1998 and joined the aculty o

the UoM Law School. I am now the Associate Dean

or Clinical Aairs. I am committed to making sure

Michigans judiciary protects us all with integrity, and

to improving our judiciary so that it can be a positive

example or others in the country.

I wholeheartedly support these reorms and am grate-

ul or the taskorces work. Judicial campaigns in

Michigan are some o the most expensive in the nation,

and 2012 will likely break previous campaign spending

records.Tat coupled with partisanship in the process

is devastating to public condence in the entire system.

Reorms in each o these areas will serve the public. I

am committed to working to enact these reorms no

matter the outcome o this election. Justice Marilyn

Kelly has has endorsed me as the candidate she would

like to see replace her and I intend to support her con-

tinuing reorm eorts.

Our judiciary has to work or all citizens. P

undermines the public condence in our

that condence level is at an all time low.

supposed to be the branch o governmen

ing right is more important than being po

people need to see the Supreme Court op

way to restore condence in its actions. A

essor I teach students about this importa

court plays in a constitutional democrac

lawyer practicing in our state and ederal

supervising students in court as they learn

how politics undermines this goal.



8/15

Michigan Supreme Court Justice - 8-year term Vote for up to TWO (2)Questions (625 characters each):

QUESTION 1


perience and qualications or

the Michigan Supreme Court



QUESTION 2


the ndings o the bipartisan

Michigan Judicial Selection







appointments?

QUESTION 3

What is your vision or

uture o our judicial sys

What changes would yo

dvocate and why?

KERRY MORGANCampaign Website:

ttp://www.martindale.com/

Kerry-Lee-Morgan/2161158-

awyer.htm


osition: Kerry Lee Morgan

O Counsel to the law

rm o Pentiuk, Couvreur, & Kobiljak, P.C.

ducation: B.A., Michigan State University, 1977;

D., Detroit College o Law, 1980; M.A., Regent

University, 1985.

Te Supreme Court needs Justices who will apply the

law as written, not as it ought to be written in the mind

o the Judge. My background in the law or over thirty

years has taught me the importance o this purpose.

My experience in the practice o law beore judges hastaught me that judges are reluctant to simply apply the

law as written. I can bring a balanced respect or the

written law and the Constitution in particular, to the

bench so that Justice may be done.

Te ask Forces recommendations are a sham. Te

Democrat and Republican parties have joined orces in

an eort to orce primaries upon the voter. Tis elimi-

nates competition rom Libertarian and other Party

candidates in the General election. Te ask Forcecomplains that too much money is spent but ails to

note that primaries will increase expenditures. Repub-

lican and Democrat nominated Justices currently ac-

count or 99 percent o those expenditure. Te people

o this State deserve better than the snake oil o such

bipartisan manipulation designed to increase major

party control o the Supreme Court.

Te uture o the judicial system is or the

decide, but that uture must recover a soli

ment to the rule o law, not the law o judg

gan Lawyers must also be reed rom the

State Bar o Michigan, by elimination o itsory membership requirements. Te Supre

should be leading this ght. Instead, it side

Bar in compelling lawyers to pay money to

the propagation o ideas with which they d

well as denying lawyers the reedom to volu

their dues to other legal organizations wh

they would avor.





state courts.

COLLEEN OBRIENampaign Website:

ww.colleenobrien.org

ccupation / Current

osition: Circuit Court

udge, Oakland County

ducation: University o

Michigan, 1978; Detroit Col-

ge o Law, 1981

My background includes 14 years as Oakland County

Circuit Court Judge, 17 years in private practice & sev-

eral years teaching law. I have held leadership positions

in judicial groups, lawyers associations & community

organizations. However, it is my experience as a judge

in one o Michigans busiest trial courts that has best

prepared me or service on the Michigan Supreme

Court. I have seen rsthand the impact that the Courthas on the lives o each litigant that comes into my

court. I pledge, that i elected, I will apply the law with

an even-hand to every party, regardless o my personal

views or preerences.

Michigan already requires public disclosure o all cam-

paign contributions to judicial candidates. Te stated

motivation or a nonpartisan primary was to remove

money rom the process. I believe it would have the

opposite eect: there would be no limit on the number

o people running, it will attract those with the most

money & most amous names, and it would result in two

statewide elections, rather than one. We must be care-ul not to take Michigans electorate out o the process

o determining who judges are by giving this important

responsibility to an unaccountable commission.

o meet the needs o our citizens in the ace

ing resources, our judicial system must bec

ecient through the use o better techno

improved resource allocation. We must ens

to the courts or all o our residents, inclu

gent litigants, regardless o where they live

a critical nding o the Governors Indigen

Commission on which I served. I would alsoproblem-solving courts including those de

substance abuse, domestic violence, mental h

BOB RODDISCampaign Website:

ttp://roddisorjustice.com/


osition: Attorney

ducation: Ferndale High

chool 1969; M.S.U. - B.A. in

olitical Science 1974; Detroit

College o Law - J.D. 1980; Wayne State University

chool o Law - LLM 1984

I am a lielong resident o metropolitan Detroit and an

attorney since 1980. I am a strong advocate o the Aus-

trian School o Economics as exemplied by the Nobel

Prize winner in economics Friedrich Hayek and by

Congressman Ron Paul, who has been an inspiration

to me. I believe that individuals have a constitutional

and natural right to personal liberty and nancial lib-

erty. I am running or justice o the Supreme Court

because our government is out o control in both our

personal and economic lives and must be reigned i n by

judges who understand the limitations placed on gov-

ernment by the Constitution.

While I have no objection to disclosure o campaign

unding, I rigorously object to the other recommen-

dations o this task orce. Tese ltering procedures

would ensure that no judicial opponents o the sur-

veillance/welare state will ever reach the Michigan

Supreme Court. With these lters in place, only rub-

ber-stamped advocates o our present unconstitutional

living constitution who have supported the judicial

evisceration o the constitution guaranteed protections

o private property, reedom o contract, sound money

and limited government will ever nd a seat on the

court.

My vision or the uture is that judges mi

stand and enorce the written Constitution

one example, the Constitution clearly states

shall make any Ting but gold and s

a ender in Payment o Debts. I this pro

been properly enorced, there would hav

unconstitutional creation o the Federal R

Great Depression, no recent housing bubb

unconstitutional bailout o Fannie, Freddie

Further, the limited powers granted to the

ernment do not include control o the enti

industry with legislation such as Obamacare

on November 6.Bring a friend!



9/15

Michigan Supreme Court Justice - PARTIALterm to 1/1/15 Vote for ONE (

Questions (625 characters each):QUESTION 1


perience and qualications orthe Michigan Supreme Court



QUESTION 2


the ndings o the bipartisanMichigan Judicial Selection







appointments?

QUESTION 3

What is your vision or

uture o our judicial sysWhat changes would y

advocate and why?

MINDY BARRYCampaign Website:

https://www.acebook.com/

MindyBarryorMichiganSu-premeCourt


Position: Visiting Assistant

Proessor, University o

Detroit, Mercy School o Law. Attorney.

Education: Georgetown University, J.D., 20 03;

Georgetown Journal o Law & Public Policy; Senior

Writing Fellow; Legal Research & Writing Fellow.

Colgate University, B.A. International Relations,

991

Former Chie Counsel, U.S. House o Representatives

Judiciary Committee; Counsel, U.S. House o Repre-

sentatives Subcommittee or the Constitution; MI Su-

preme Court Law Clerk. I b elieve there should be more

than two parties: more candidates create more discus-

sion, which educates the electorate which, in turn, con-

strains politicization o the judiciary. In my career, I

have learned the wisdom o the law, the diculty o

judicial restraint, & the b eauty o our government &

hope to apply my background & education to advance

these values or the people o the State o Michigan.

I have a unique view: I grew up in a state in which

judges are appointed. My dad & his colleagues were

competitively selected, &, while not awless, having

proessional associations screen candidates is eec-

tive in minimizing incapable, but charismatic, judges

dierently than political nominations &/or elections.

I also investigated misconduct by ederal judges who,

obviously, are appointed. So I am aware o the tempta-

tion to inuence outcomes even by judges who need

not worry about undraising or campaigning. I support

improvements through public disclosure & account-

ability o campaign (mis)representations.

I would like to see the ethics and proess

dards o the judiciary heightened. Te leg

the judiciary and, thus, societys willingne

ply with its outcomes depends equally on

lectual competency and honestly o its jud

are the gatekeepers or the system and, ther

be its standard-barer. I would like the elect

to cause more questioning about proession

ity so the people o the State become more

literate and expect the same competency r

as we expect surgeons or auto workers to h

respective elds.





state courts.

SHELIA JOHNSONCampaign Website:

www.JudgeSheliaJohnson.com


osition: Judge o the 46th

District Court

ducation: Kingswood

chool Cranbrook

secondary education); Dartmouth College,

A.B. with distinction; University o Michigan L aw

chool, J.D.; ormer judicial Law Clerk U.S. District

Court, W.D. Michigan.

Prior to being elected to the 46th District Court in

2002, I was an associate at a major law rm in the com-

mercial litigation practice group and in private prac-

tice or approximately 18 years, representing average

people, protecting their rights in both criminal and

civil litigation, ofen woking pro bono to ensure citi-zens had access to justice. I am seeking oce to bring

a resh, diverse, common sense, judicially independent

perspective and practical experience to the Court. I in-

tend to applying the law as written, bringing balance,

airness and integrity and restoring condence to the

legal process.

Tere should be reorm in the way that judges are se-

lected. Te current system allows unrestricted unding

rom unknown sources in judicial races, which aects

the integrity o the judicial process. Te nomination

o justices to the non-partisan ballot through the po-

litical party process leaves the appearance that justicesare beholden to special interests and serves to erode

the public trust and condence in the judicial system.

Nominations should be non-partisan. Te people

should elect judges, but with screening to educate the

electorate and also or gubernatorial appointments to

preclude pure partisan avorism.

I envision a system where everyone, no m

background or resources, has equal access

I would advocate or changes in the cour

counsel system, to ensure indigent perons

and eective representation; changes in

rules to ensure that pro se litigants have aderstanding o procedure and thus equal ac

system; accessible online education in cou

unrepresented persons navigate thru the sys

language resources to ensure that oreign lan

gants understand the process thereby resulti

air and just results.

BRIAN ZAHRACampaign Website:

www.zahraorjustice.com


osition: Justice o the

upreme Court

ducation: University o

Detroit Law School, Juris

Doctor, 1987 : Wayne State University, Bachelor o

General Studies, 1984

I have been privileged to serve the people o Michigan

or 18 years; 4 years as a circuit judge; 12 years as Judge

o the Court o Appeals; and 2 years as Justice o the

Supreme Court. Troughout this time, I have been an

advocate or the rule o law. Rule o law means that a

persons case should rise or a ll exclusively on the legal

merits o the claim and not on a judges subjective view

o which party is more sympathetic or deserving. Tis

is the only way to ensure equal justice under law to allwho use the courts. Tis is also the best way to ensure

an objective and balanced approach to the interpreta-

tion o laws.

I preer an appointment system only i the Governor

has unettered discretion to appoint. When the people

elect a governor, they will have to be cognizant o the

types o judges the governor will appoint. I disavor an

appointment system that uses an advisory commission

to limit the Governors discretion. Backroom politics

will control the commission and ultimately control

who becomes a judge. I we have elections, I avor

eliminating party nominations or Supreme Court. Idisavor requiring a primary in judicial elections be-

cause they require additional undraising. Judicial un-

draising should be kept to a minimum.

Te judicial system is technologically o

party should be able to e-le their pleading

electronic access to public records. Tese

are mainly due to the way we und our Co

government pays or the Courts support. T

a vast dierence in unding. Larger counti

ecient e-ling system that saves money or

and makes money or the court. Smaller co

the resources to have vendors provide theservices. Within 5 years we need to creat

state e-ling system that will make the judi

more ecient and user riendly.

Vote on Tuesday, November 6Polls open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.



10/15

Court of AppealsNo candidate or Court o Appeals has opposition on the ballot.

Thereore, questionnaires were not sent to candidates or the Court o Appeals.

Court of Appeals Districts by County1st District 3rd District 4th DistrictBranch Allegan Kent Alcona Delta Keweenaw OgemaHillsdale Barry Mason Alger Dickinson Lake OntonagKalamazoo Berrien Montcalm Alpena Emmet Lapeer OsceolaLenawee Cass Muskegon Antrim Gladwin Leelanau Oscoda

Monroe Calhoun Newaygo Arenac Gogebic Livingston OtsegoSt. Joseph Eaton Oceana Baraga Grand raverse Luce Presque Wayne Ionia Ottawa Bay Gratiot Mackinac Roscomm

Jackson Van Buren Benzie Houghton Manistee Saginaw2nd District Washtenaw Charlevoix Huron Marquette SanilacGenesee Cheboyan Ingham Mecosta SchoolcrMacomb Chippewa Iosco Menominee ShiawassOakland Clare Iron Midland St. Clair

Clinton Isabella Missaukee uscolaCraword Kalkaska Montmorency Wexord

1st District Judge of Court of AppealsIncumbent 6-year term

Vote for up to TWO (2)

KIRSEN FRANK KELLYMICHAEL RIORDAN

2nd District Judge of Court of AppealsIncumbent 6-year term

Vote for up to THREE (3)

ELIZABEH L. GLEICHERKAHLEEN JANSENDEBORAH A. SERVIO

3rd District Judge of Court of AppealsIncumbent 6-year term

Vote for up to THREE (3)JANE M. BECKERINGBILL MURPHYDOUGLAS B. SHAPIRO

3rd District Judge of Court of AppealIncumbent Partial term ending 1/1/2015

Vote for ONE (1)

MARK . BOONSRA

4th District Judge of Court of AppealsIncumbent 6-year term

Vote for up to TWO (2)

SEPHEN LEOPOLD BORRELLOPEER D. OCONNELL

4th District Judge of Court of AppealsIncumbent Partial term ending 1/1/2015

Vote for ONE (1)

AMY RONAYNE KRAUSE

VOING FOR JUDICIAL CANDIDAESJudges are dierent rom other elected ocials; their role is to upholdthe law, not represent voters. Tis dierence can make it challengingto make decisions in a judicial election. o help you make an inormeddecision consider:

What should you expect rom judicial candidates? Campaign conduct consistent with judicial rules and ethics Impartiality Commitment to the law, rather than public opinion

What should you look or in a judge? Experience demonstrated exposure to legal issues, and substantial

& diverse experience with the justice system Integrity- high moral character, honesty, industry and diligence Proessional Competence intellect, knowledge o the law, writing

& analytical ability, judgment, and courtroom & trial experience Judicial emperament unbiased, courteous, open-minded,

understanding, air and committed to the rule o law Service demonstrated commitment to justice or all.



11/15

Statewide Proposals

OFFICIAL BALLOT LANGUAGE with PRO and CON STATEMENTS

DISCLAIMER:Te Pro and Con statements or the six statewide ballot proposals refect the views o their major proponents and opponents as expressed on their websites and other supporting documreerenced. Te inclusion o the views o the various groups is solely in the interest o public service. Te League o Women Voters takes no responsibility or the views or acts o the gr

Ocial Ballot Language - PROPOSAL 12-1

A REFERENDUM ON PUBLIC AC 4 OF 2011 HE EMERGENCY MANAGER LAW

Public Act 4 o 2011 would:

Establish criteria to assess the nancial condition of local government units, in-

cluding school districts.

Authorize Governor to appoint an emergency manager (EM) upon state ndingo a nancial emergency, and allow the EM to act in place o local governmentocials.

Require EM to develop nancial and operating plans, which may include modi-

cation or termination o contracts, reorganization o government, and determi-nation o expenditures, services, and use o assets until the emergency is resolved.

Alternatively, authorize state-appointed review team to enter into a local govern-ment approved consent decree.

Should this law be approved? YES NO

YESPA 4 o 2011 was passed by the majority o the Michigan Legislature and signed byGovernor Snyder in order to update the ormer emergency nance manager law, PA 72o 1990. Per the Michigan Constitution, local governments are creations o and subor-dinate to the state and thus, the state can pass laws governing their operations.

Under PA 4, emergency managers gained new power to deal with nancial emergen-cies including having authority previously vested in local elected ocials and to reject,modiy and terminate contracts and collective bargaining agreements. Supporters citethe need or emergency managers to have more powers than under the old law in orderto deal with the current nancial crisis that impacts local cities and school districts.

Te Governor is responsible or appointing an emergency manager afer declaring a -nancial emergency. A consent agreement is another option. Emergency manager mustsubmit action plan to State reasurer and hold a public meeting on it.

Emergency managers are seen as a needed alternative to ling or bankruptcy in orderto protect the credit o the state.

YES vote puts the Emergency Manager Law, PA 4 o 2011, into eect.Note: Website not available at this time.

NOStand Up or Democracy and others oppose PA 4 o 2011 and see it as a power grab bythe Governor and Michigan Legislature. Opponents recognize the need to have inter-ventions available when there is a nancial crisis, but they argue that locally elected o-

cials should still have power and previously agreed upon contracts should be enorced.Some believe PA 4 may be unconstitutional, particularly regarding abrogation o con-tracts and voter disenranchisement o the local community. Opponents argue thatthe broad powers given the Emergency Manager such as eliminating the role o locallyelected ocials, altering contracts, ring employees, suspending collective bargainingagreements, outsourcing, merging cities or school districts, and selling assets go too ar.

Many believe PA 72 o 1990, the Emergency Financial Manager law which PA 4 re-placed, is adequate or dealing with nancial crisis and blame reductions in state rev-enue sharing or causing the crisis. Because o the reerendum, Flint, Benton Harbor,Ecorse, Pontiac, Detroit Public Schools and Highland Park Schools, are being operatedunder PA 72 o 1990.

NO vote repeals the Emergency Manager Law, PA 4 o 2011.

For more inormation go to http://standup4democracy.com


A PROPOSAL O AMEND HE SAE CONSIUIONREGARDING COLLECIVE BARGAINING

Tis proposal would:

Grant public and private employees the constitutional right to organize an

gain collectively through labor unions.

Invalidate existing or future state or local laws that limit the ability tunions and bargain collectively, and to negotiate and enorce collective baring agreements, including employees nancial support o their labor un

Laws may be enacted to prohibit public employees rom striking.

Override state laws that regulate hours and conditions of employment extent that those laws confict with collective bargaining agreements.

Dene employer as a person or entity employing one or more employee

Should this proposal be approved? YES NO

YESProtect Our Jobs asserts:

Proposal establishes peoples rights to organize, join or assist unions and to bcollectively with public or private employers regarding wages, hours and other emment conditions.

It prohibits employers rom retaliating against employees or exercising those rprohibits state and local governments rom interering with those rights, and progovernment rom blocking agreements respecting employees nancial support tounion. It grants State Civil Service employees collective bargaining rights while arizing the State to restrict or prohibit public employee strikes. It protects currenestablishing minimum wages, hours and working conditions.

Te proposal doesnt add any rights workers dont already have. It doesnt orce pto join unions. It doesnt require anyone to pay dues. It simply prevents those whoto eliminate workers rights rom being able to do it. Corporate special interesspend millions to mislead voters about the proposal so they can pass Right to legislation prohibiting agreements between unions and employers on membershdues payment.

Collective bargaining gives workers a voice at work and a seat at the table with mament, protecting Michigans amilies and allowing workers to negotiate air wagbenets.

For more information go to http://protectourjobs.com

NOProtecting Michigan axpayers asserts:

Tis proposal enshrines the agenda o Washington D.C. union bosses in Mich

Constitution, resulting in higher taxes, a undamental lack o airness and eweIt would take away local control and eliminate the ability o our elected represento make decisions that move Michigan orward.

Government workers would receive higher pensions and better benets even dtough economic times, causing lawmakers to roll back recent tax cuts that are uMichigans turnaround.

Nearly 80 laws would be overturned, jeopardizing the states progress so ar. Ouity to remove bad teachers would be gutted, shortchanging our childrens educatwould be dicult to pass laws to urther improve education, protect public saetstrengthen our economy.

Just as no one should be orbidden rom joining a union, workers should not be to join a union or pay dues to a political organization they dont support. Its a sinterest power play. Dont let them hijack our constitution.

For more information go to http://protectingmichigantaxpayers



12/15

Statewide Proposals




A PROPOSAL O AMEND HE SAE CONSIUIONO ESABLISH A SANDARD FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY

Tis proposal would:

Require electric utilities to provide at least 25% of their annual retail sales ofelectricity rom renewable energy sources, which are wind, solar, biomass, and

hydropower, by 2025.

Limit to not more than 1% per year electric utility rate increases charged to con-sumers only to achieve compliance with the renewable energy standard.

Allow annual extensions of the deadline to meet the 25% standard in order toprevent rate increases over the 1% limit.

Require the legislature to enact additional laws to encourage the use of Michiganmade equipment and employment o Michigan residents.


YESUtilities are on track to meet the old standard o 10% renewables by 2015. Tats no lon-ger good enough as over 30 other states, including the Midwestern states o Ohio, Illi-nois, Iowa and Minnesota have passed new standards o 25% renewables by 2025. Tesestates have not seen signicantly higher energy rates and this proposal limits increasesto no more than $1.25 a month. Tis is a small cost or Michigan energy, Michigan jobsand cleaner air and water.

Tis proposal would help us build a clean energy industry by oering stability andcommitment to renewable energy growth. Te growth will create thousands o jobs or

Michigan workers and attract $10 billion in new investments in our state.

Using more wind and solar energy will reduce pollution and give Michigan cleaner andhealthier air and water, protect the Great Lakes, reduce asthma and lung disease, andultimately save lives.

Te Michigan constitution has granted two mechanisms to create law, our legislatureand by popular vote. Our present legislative impasse necessitates going to the people toensure we dont all behind.

For more inormation, go to www.MiEnergyMiJobs.com .

NOA ballot proposal to require 25% o all energy to be produced rom the sun or windby 2025 sidesteps our Legislature and the proper way to make laws. It allows millionso dollars worth o wind turbines and solar generation all over Michigans landscape,without any proo that such a tremendous investment can be utilized or will even be

needed afer its installation.

Current law requires 10% renewables by 2015. Tat is a more reasonable, aordable andattainable approach than cluttering the Constitution. Te marketplace is the most e-ective way to develop Michigans renewable energy industry and the legislative processis the most ecient way to set standards. Te current law, which was passed afer twoyears o thoughtul debate and with bipartisan support in 2008, should be ully imple-mented and its benets ully analyzed and evaluated beore any changes are discussed.

Te Michigan Jobs and Energy Coalition, which includes Michigans major utilities,electrical cooperatives, major business organizations, industrial customers and eco-nomic development interests and which helped pass the 2008 renewable energy law,opposes this amendment which decreases exibility. A special interest group should notbe allowed to amend our Constitution.

For more inormation, go to www.careormich.com

Ocial Ballot Language - PROPOSAL 12-4A PROPOSAL O AMEND HE SAE CONSIUIONO ESABLISH HE MICHIGAN QUALIY HOME CARECOUNCIL AND PROVIDE COLLECIVE BARGAINING

FOR IN-HOME CARE WORKERSTis proposal would:

Allow in-home care workers to bargain collectively with the Michigan QHome Care Council (MQHCC). Continue the current exclusive represent

o in-home care workers until modied in accordance with labor laws.

Require MQHCC to provide training for in-home care workers, create a re

o workers who pass background checks, and provide nancial services ttients to manage the cost o in-home care.

Preserve patients rights to hire in-home care workers who are not referred

the MQHCC registry who are bargaining unit members.

Authorize the MQHCC to set minimum compensation standards and term

conditions o employment.


YESCitizens or Aordable Quality Home Care, a bipartisan coalition o senior advodisability rights groups, veterans, clergy, law enorcement ocials and commleaders, supports the Keep Home Care Sae proposal to establish Michigan QHome Care Council (MQHCC).

An eleven-member council appointed by the Governor will establish a registry toeligible recipients obtain Home Help services. Te registry will pre-screen wodo background checks and provide critical job training so workers can better cathose needing assistance. Te home care workers will have collective bargaining rbut are not State employees. Medicaid pays workers, but patients are responsib

hiring and ring the home care workers.

MQHCC enables seniors and people with disabilities to choose sae, quality ctheir own homes as an alternative to expensive institutional care. According tAnderson Economic Group report, Michigan saves $47,000 annually or each pusing home services rather than being in a nursing acility. A similar Michigan QCommunity Care Council (MQC3) established in 2004 was eliminated by the Gnor and Michigan Legislature in 2012. By monitoring unemployment claims by seproviders, MQC3 saved the state $1,100,000 in unemployment benets over our

For more inormation go to www.keephomecaresae.org

NOTis proposal would amend the Michigan Constitution to allow the unionizatihome-based caregivers as state employees. I passed the Constitutional amendwould override Public Act 76 o 2012. PA 76 amended the Public Employees RelAct (PERA) to exclude in the denition o public employees persons who re

a government subsidy in their private employment and prohibit the recognitionbargaining unit o individuals who are not public employees.

Elected ocials passed PA 76 to eliminate the Michigan Quality CommunityCouncil and stop collecting dues or the Service Employees International Uniobehal o home care workers. Citizens Protecting Michigans Constitution (Copposes Proposal 4 arguing that home care workers are not employed by the staby their clients, and, thereore, should not have collective bargaining rights andunion dues.

CPMC states that the ederal Home Help Program is already in existence to alloniors and disabled people to receive care at home instead o at a nursing acility. seniors in the program use amily members to provide the services. CPMC arguethis proposal would hijack the Michigan Constitution to allow unionization o caers as state employees.

For more inormation go to www.handsofourconstitution.co



13/15

Statewide Proposals




A PROPOSAL O AMEND HE SAE CONSIUIONO LIMI HE ENACMEN OF NEW AXES BY SAE

GOVERNMEN

Tis proposal would:

Require a 2/3 majority vote o the State House and the State Senate, or a statewidevote o the people at a November election, in order or the State o Michigan toimpose new or additional taxes on taxpayers or expand the base o taxation or

increasing the rate o taxation.

Tis section shall in no way be construed to limit or modiy tax

Documents

League of Women Voters - Voter Guide - Statewide Races