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SEMO DECIDES

2012

2

3The Month in Review

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It was a good month for Congresswoman Jo Ann Emerson, She has not only ran another aggressive

campaign, but has ended up being a big help to the Libla for Senate effort.

It was a bad month for Senator Claire McCaskill, the entire state offered the senator

condolences on the loss of her mother Betty. While McCaskill remains the only reasonable choice of fathers, sons, and brothers for Senate, but she will have to finish the campaign with a very heavy heart.

It was a good month for Poplar Bluff Schools. They introduced an informational email

entitled the e-Mule. Now if you don’t know what is going on at poplar bluff schools it isn’t because the information isn’t available.

It was a good month for area law enforcement. With the kidnapping of a

young girl every law enforcement organization from the FBI, Highway Patrol, Sheriff’s Department, and Police Department sprung into action and before the day was over the girl was returned to her parents, and her abductor was in custody.

It was a good month for Heartland Express. Our friends over at Heartland Express held a beer tasting

with some of the beers geared toward fall. They invited our SEMO TIMES readers to join them and you came out in droves. Nearly 100 friends of the TIMES turned out and we all had a lot of fun. Kudos to our friends at Heartland Express.

It was a bad month for the St. Louis Cardinals. While being one game

from the World Series would be considered a great year for most teams, Cardinals fans wanting #12in12 were disappointed by their loss to the Giants in the NLCS.

1.Who do you have for President, Obama orRomney?

2. Where do you find the best steak in SEMO?

DarronMoore

CassyHancock

MarkSullivan

1. Obama

2. Colton’s

‎1. Romney

2. Rather have a burger.

1. Romney

2. Texas Road-house

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BONUS QUeStION: Do you still know anyone who isnt for marriage equality?Answers on the SEMO TIMES facebook page

Cover Story SEMO Times4

SeMO deCIdeS

2012Staff Reports

Poplar Bluff, MO - As SEMO voters prepare to go to the polls next week we decided to ask a few questions that may be on your mind heading into election day. We focused on the three races generating the most discussion: Congress, 25th State Senate seat, and Butler County Sheriff.

We organized them beginning with the largest officies and by who is first on the ballot.

U.S. Congress

Democrat Jack RushinWhy are you running for Congress? I have long been interested, but I am very devoted to my profession. I have been very active in the Missouri Chiropractic Association for many years in fact I had meetings with Bill Emerson over Medicare when he was in office. I just do not feel that we have advanced as a society over the last 25 years as we should have?

Do you see government as a way to facilitate that advancement? As I have spoke to different groups and said that I am not for smaller government I am for leaner government. When disasters like a New Madrid earthquake a small government isn’t goint to be able to help. That is what I told the Tea Party in Rolla.

What was the Tea Party’s reaction to your candidacy?

You know they never booed me or heckled me and were very polite to hear every view. I explained that both Jo Ann and Paul Ryan were front and center for the Bush years and inherited a surplus and left a debt.

What is the most important issue facing the 8th District?

Our extremely low level of economic growth, and I believe a Member of Congress could get rid of these trade deals that have killed these small factories throughout the 8th district. We now rely on agriculture in our district, and agriculture alone will not support the district we need manufacturing.

What is your position on gun control?I believe a citizen should have the right to own any firearm they choose even an assault rifle, but I believe we should address how many shells fit into the magazine.

What is your position on abortion? I am definitely pro choice, but I am pro choice for a reason. I cannot in good conscious ask a 12, 13, or 14 year old girl to take a child born form incest to term.

What is the one thing you would like to tell voters before they head to the polls? I think the electorate needs to be more patient, more responsible, and they need to learn.

Republican Jo Ann EmersonWhy did you decide to run for re-election? Serving the Eighth Congressional District is the greatest honor of my professional life. I love the people I work for every day, and we have a lot of challenges I know we can overcome with the right leadership. It requires us to put people before politics, to work together, and to advance commonsense conservative solutions not just for Missouri, but for our nation. I have a record of that kind of success in Congress, and I think it is important to continue the strongest possible representation of our district.

What do you feel is the most pressing issue facing southeast Missouri? Jobs. Our rural economy depends on the freedom to innovate, freedom from onerous government regulations, freedom to keep more of what we earn, and freedom to do what is best for our communities. That means investing in infrastructure, passing permanent relief from the Death Tax and other taxes, limiting the power of the federal bureaucracy over our lives, and promoting free markets. We have the most talented, hardest-working people in the world in Southern Missouri, and we have a bright future.

What is your position on abortion? I am pro-life, endorsed by Missouri Right to Life.

What is your position on gun control? I am pro Second Amendment, endorsed by the National Rifle Association.

What was the most rewarding day of your last term? I dropped the gavel to pass a comprehensive repeal of ObamaCare in the U.S. House of Representatives, just a few days after the Supreme Court ruled on the law’s legality. I was very honored to chair that vote. It is a symbol of the will of the American people to stop ObamaCare and prevent its many taxes and expansions of government authority.

What was the most frustrating day of your last term? When Congress rubber-stamped a measure to actually increase federal spending for the first six months of FY 2013. I had written a bill to cut a billion dollars from the IRS, enact deep reforms at several federal agencies, and eliminate some agencies and programs, and I was very frustrated to not see

all of those commonsense savings put in place for taxpayers.

Could you describe to our readers who may not follow government that closely how your seniority in Congress helps you represent the district? First, my seniority means I know our district extremely well. I have visited thousands of families, small businesses and community groups in our district during my service to Southern Missouri. I carry all of their stories with me when I go to Congress, and I am fortunate to often vote with a specific example in mind of someone who has written me a letter on the subject or a business I have visited or a veteran I have met who is directly affected by the legislation.

I chair a subcommittee where we have been central to reforming government by limiting funding, preventing the expansion of government intrusion into Americans’ lives, and exposing waste and abuse. We provide a key

check against the powers of the Obama Administration, and that is a major responsibility these days. In the next two years, I hope to have to opportunity to put more accountability measures in place.

What is the one thing you would like to tell voters of the 8th district before they go to the polls? This election is a key turning point for our country and our economy. We are selecting leaders, but we are also choosing a vision for our future. I want Southern Missouri, and America, to have a future full of economic success, opportunity, and

>>SEMO Decides, on page 9

Staff Reports

semotimes.com 5

SWINGERDR TERRY

STATE SENATE 2012

Terry Swinger IS the State Senate Candidate

Endorsed By:

Paid for by Citizens for Swinger Delila Swinger, Treasurer

Delila and I appreciate where we’re from and the tremendous sense of community that makes up Southeast Missouri, and the Bootheel. We’re thankful for the help of many and encourage all to vote. As always I very much appreciate your support. Terry Swinger

8

9freedom. That is what I have worked for in Congress, and that is the vision I hope to pursue in the coming term.

State Senate 25th District

Democrat Terry SwingerWhy did you decide to run? There is much to be done to further economic development and create jobs throughout Southeast Missouri. Each year the Missouri Farm Bureau awards its Friend of Agriculture recognition, I’ve received it because of how we’ve responded to agribusiness needs and of our continuous work on commerce issues; I am proud to be the Farm Bureau’s endorsed candidate in this year’s election, that says a lot about the state lawmaker I have been and the senator I will be for this area. They recognize my commitment to addressing rural Missouri needs, and my ability to get things done and be an effective voice for the people I represent.

What do you feel is the most pressing issue facing southeast Missouri? When it comes to our future, economic development in Southeast Missouri understandably relies upon agribusiness and commerce, as well as greater investments in area education; Kansas City and St. Louis get too much already. Last week I was with the governor, at a factory in my state representative district that has stepped up barge manufacturing in order to meet growing demand. This is just the beginning, and the development to be had will not only help counties along the river, but also counties, like Butler and Stoddard. Indeed, even new counties added to the 25th Senate District, Mississippi, Shannon and Carter counties stand to benefit as well.

What is your position on abortion? I am proud to be the endorsed candidate of Missouri Right to Life in this race. I have spent the last nine years advocating for and supportive of legislation that protects the unborn, elderly and societies most vulnerable. My proven record is something that life advocates and those with Missouri Right to Life recognize and support. It is particularly important that voters not be confused by attempts by my opponent to mischaracterize my record in recent weeks as the election nears, his attempt to confuse

voters is upsetting not only to those familiar with my strong life record in Southeast Missouri, but is also troubling to Missouri Right to Life whose side I was on when casting those votes, proving I am the life

candidate in this race. I am grateful for their endorsement and support in setting the record straight.

What is your position on gun control? I am the NRA endorsed candidate in this race. Sportsmen and women know that I will continue to fight to support their Second Amendment Rights. I grew up respecting firearms and the rights we have as Americans to own them for sport and protection. As a hunter myself, I am committed to seeing that measures that would restrict the sale and use of guns by law abiding citizens are met with strong opposition, I have a record of opposing such actions in the legislature and will continue to oppose such actions in the Missouri State Senate.

What is the one thing you would like to tell voters of the 25th district before they go to the polls? I’ll never forget what it was like to walk outside our Caruthersville home after the tornado hit in 2006, kids and the community left without a high school, many without homes, businesses damaged. With hard work we were able to get a new high school built, and move our students out of FEMA trailers, but not before pushing back against Kansas City lawmakers who tried to add a swimming pool project for their area into the legislation. That is the kind of thing that sets me

off and I’m sure it does taxpayers as well. You’ll be happy to know Southeast Missouri won out as a result of our efforts..

Republican Doug LiblaWhy did you decide to run? I feel like our country and state are going in a direction that the American Dream and opportunities are becoming out of reach for many of our young folks and families. We need more people in the state legislature with business experience, who have balanced budgets and met payrolls. I’ve owned and operated businesses for 41 years. While a lot of politicians talk about creating jobs, I have done so. This job requires full time work and I plan on serving all citizens, including our seniors and veterans, with all of my energy.

What do you feel is the most pressing issue facing southeast Missouri? The most pressing issue is the need for more quality, family-sustaining jobs and opportunities. I’m proud to be the only candidate in this race with a track record and experience of creating hundreds of family-sustaining jobs in our area through our businesses. I’m eager to use that experience in Jefferson City to remove barriers and needless regulations that burden our family farms and businesses. I will work hard to improve education and will support common sense policies such as Right-To-Work and tort reform to make our region and state a more attractive place to create and retain jobs.

What is your position on abortion? I am 100% pro-life, and will fight to protect life in our State Capitol. This is one of the key reasons I’m proud to be running as a Republican, as our party’s platform supports right to life and opposes abortion. Electing me to the Senate will keep a pro-life Republican majority in that chamber.

What is your position on gun control? I am 100% pro-second amendment and 100% against gun control. As a lifetime member of the NRA, I believe the government has no right to regulate the lawful use of firearms, whether for hunting, other outdoor sports, or personal and home protection. I’m proud of our hunting heritage and will strive to protect our access to all of the streams and hunting areas. As your State Senator,

I will protect your gun rights and will be part of the current Republican pro-gun majority in the Senate.

What is the one thing you would like to tell voters of the 25th district before they go to the polls? My business experience and community involvement will be an asset in the Missouri Senate. Since my retirement from family owned Mid Continent Nail in February, the company has added over 100 additional jobs. We need more of this job creation and economic development in the 25th district, and I am the best candidate to achieve this goal. I am ready to take my knowledge and work ethic to Jefferson City to promote and attract more jobs, reduce burdensome regulations on our family farms and businesses, and improve education and job skill training. I would greatly appreciate your vote and support on Election Day.

Butler County Sheriff

Democrat Van RhodesWhy are you running for Sheriff? Because of my law enforcement training and 20 years of emergency experience. We had two guys squabbling and I was a neutral party to all of that. The first thing I did was announce that if I am elected I would keep everyone on staff.

What is your experience? In my job as a firefighter I work with law enforcement everyday. Whether its accidents, dismantling meth labs, or searching for the girl that was missing last week I work with law enforcement every day.

News SEMO Times 11

What are the differences you see between you and the incumbent? I am more of a people person. I will be approachable and keep open communications with the public.

There was recently a change in Emergency Management, did you support that change? I was at the meeting, but remained neutral. I felt it was the commissioner’s decision to replace Sliger or not. If I am elected Sheriff the sirens will work.

What was your proudest day as a firefighter? Probably when I got hired and become part of the force. It was a very competitive job to get, over 300 people put in for that job and I came out on top.

Do you feel you will be able to effectively work with the County Commission? Of course I think we will work together fine. We will set a budget and stay in that budget?

Four years from now how will the public know you have done a good job? If when they call they are satisfied with our response?

You have also been a community leader standing up for your neighbors in north Poplar Bluff regarding the 8 Points Development. In America when you work hard and buy a piece of property its yours. Eminent domain is not American and its not right.

What would you like to tell the voters? If you call me I will respond. If you want a Sheriff you can come talk to I will be that Sheriff. My family knows what its like to be a victim of a crime. In 2002 my daughter was attacked by a sexual predator and nearly killed, I can empathize with families who have been victims and I know they want justice. I will be relentless on apprehending, investigating, and making sure we get the job done.

Republican Sheriff Mark DobbsWhy did you decide to get into law enforcement? I entered law enforcement due to a sense of duty to help protect our nation and our communities

What was the best day of your previous term? The day young Abigail Bertolf was found and returned to her family

What are the most significant ways law enforcement has changed since you began your career? The most significant changes have came in the form of new case law as well the

expanded duties of law enforcement through unfunded mandates .

You were very vocal in your support in a changes in the Emergency Management Office. Are you pleased with the current direction of the office? I am pleased with the direction of the E.M.A

and its interim director . Marked improvements could be seen from day one as the agency was in as poor of shape as any public service agency has ever been .

What would you like voters to be thinking about as they enter the polls next week? The physical and financial security of the nation, the state of Missouri and Butler county . Moreover who is the best candidate to insure said security while being able to preserve personal liberty .

Staff ReportsPoplar Bluff, MO - Just a few hours before voting begins we caught up with Dave Spence after touring a business in Poplar Bluff. A couple things we noticed right away were that Spence seems pretty calm about the election and still has his sense of humor in tact after a year on the campaign trial.

SEMO TIMES: What is the last week of the campaign like?Spence: I have a quite calm. Ev-eryone expects me to be out of my gourd or lose my sense of humor, but we are right there in the polls and I’m confident about where we are.

SEMO TIMES: Tell a conservative Butler County voter who may have a hard time finding a problem with Nixon, why they should vote for you.

Read the rest of the piece at www.semotimes.com

Spence Tour Poplar Bluff Hours Before Voting Begins