2013 May Primary Bucks County League of Women Voters Guide

7/30/2019 2013 May Primary Bucks County League of Women Voters Guide

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LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF PENNSYLVANIA

CITIZEN EDUCATION FUND

NONPARTISAN VOTERS GUIDE

Municipal Primary Election May 21, 2013

(C) Copyright 2013 LWVPACEF

Polls open 7 A.M. to 8 P.M.This Voters Guide may be taken into the voting booth.

FOR ELECTION INFORMATIONContact your county Board of Elections. The League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania CitizenInformation Center also provides election information. CALL TOLL FREE: 1-800-692-7281

ABOUT THIS GUIDEThe material in this Guide was compiled by the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania-Citizen Education Fund. This material may not be altered or reprinted without the permission ofthe League. Each candidate's reply has been printed as submitted, except to use standardabbreviations and by editing from the bottom when a candidate's reply exceeded the word limit.The candidates listed are those whose names appear on the ballot as of March 27, 2013. They arelisted according to their ballot order. Additional information about judicial candidates and voterinformation including Polling Place Lookup can be found by going towww.smartvoter.organdtyping in your address and zip code. Allegheny, Delaware and Montgomery County residentswill see additional information on local candidates atwww.smartvoter.orgas well.

PURPOSE AND POLICY OF THE LEAGUE

The purpose of the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania-Citizen Education Fund is topromote political responsibility through informed and active participation of citizens ingovernment. The League is nonpartisan: it does not support or oppose any political parties orcandidates. Nothing in this guide should be construed as an endorsement of any candidate by theLeague of Women Voters of Pennsylvania-Citizen Education Fund.

ABSENTEE VOTING

Registered voters who are ill, disabled, or will be absent from the municipality on Election Daymay vote by absentee ballot. Completed applications for civilian absentee ballots must bereceived by the county Board of Elections by 5 P.M., Tuesday, May 14, 2013. Completedcivilian absentee ballots must be received back at the Board of Elections by 5 P.M. on Friday,May 17. 2013. If an emergency arises (unexpected illness or business trip) after the Tuesdayapplication deadline, call your county Board of Elections for information on emergency absentee

voting. Proof of emergency may be required. An emergency application and ballot can beobtained and voted by 5 P.M. on Friday, May 17, 2013. Any disabled voter having questionsregarding the accessibility of a polling place should consult the county Board of Elections.

WRITE-IN VOTING

Information for write-in voting will be available at the polling place.

ELECTION DAY PROBLEMS
http://www.smartvoter.org/http://www.smartvoter.org/http://www.smartvoter.org/http://www.smartvoter.org/http://www.smartvoter.org/http://www.smartvoter.org/http://www.smartvoter.org/http://www.smartvoter.org/


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If your right to vote is challenged at the polls on Election Day and the problem cannot beresolved at the polling place, the judge of elections at the polling place should telephone thecounty Board of Elections. The problem could be resolved by phone if your name appears on thecounty records. If it does not and you want to try to resolve the problem, then you can go inperson to the county Board of Elections where a judge from the Court of Common Pleas will be

on duty to resolve election problems. Alternatively you can ask for and vote by provisionalballot. If it is later determined that you were eligible to vote your ballot will be counted. Youwill be given instructions on how to determine if your vote was counted. Problems at the pollscan be reported to the PA Department of State at www.votespa.com and to the ElectionProtection Hotline, 1-866-OurVote orwww.866ourvote.org.

Forms for voter absentee ballots, emergency absentee ballots and alternative ballots can bedownloaded from the Resource Center at www.votespa.com.

IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR NEW VOTERSIf you are a new voter or if you are voting at a polling place for the first time then you must bring

your voter ID card or a photo ID such as a driver's license, student ID or some other form ofFederal or State government issued ID. Some forms of non-photo ID are also acceptable such asa firearm permit, current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, or government check. If you donot have any acceptable ID then you must be allowed to vote by provisional ballot.

ON-LINE VOTERS GUIDE

The Voters Guide and other useful information for voters can be found on the League of WomenVoters of Pennsylvania homepage:www.palwv.org. It is also posted on the League of WomenVoters of Bucks County website,www.lwvbucks.org(go to the Voters Guide Page).

*CERTIFICATION NOTE*As of the publication date of this guide, the slate of candidates listed below is accurate basedupon the Pennsylvania Department of States Bureau of Elections unofficial ballot.

JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR COURTJOB DESCRIPTION

The Superior Court is one of Pennsylvania's two statewide intermediate appellate courts. Thiscourt, which was established in 1895, reviews most of the civil and criminal cases that areappealed from the Courts of Common Pleas in the Commonwealth's 67 counties. The SuperiorCourt consists of 15 judges who serve 10-year terms. The president judge of Superior Court iselected to a five-year term by his or her colleagues.

A huge volume of appeals flow to Superior Court from the trial courts. Generally, appeals areheard by panels of three judges sitting in Philadelphia, Harrisburg or Pittsburgh. The court oftenis the final arbiter of legal disputes. Although the Supreme Court may grant a petition for reviewof a Superior Court decision, most such petitions are denied and the ruling of the Superior Courtstands.Term: 10 yearsSalary: $188,337

(Vote for 1)
http://www.votespa.com/http://www.866ourvote.org/http://www.votespa.com/http://www.palwv.org/http://www.palwv.org/http://www.lwvbucks.org/http://www.lwvbucks.org/http://www.lwvbucks.org/http://www.lwvbucks.org/http://www.palwv.org/http://www.votespa.com/http://www.866ourvote.org/http://www.votespa.com/


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Victor P. Stabile (Republican)Home address: Carlisle, PACampaign Website: http://www.vicstabile.comDate of Birth: 9/14/57Candidate for: Superior Court of PA

Education:1982, Dickinson School of Law, J.D., Member Law Review1979, SUNY Stonybrook, cum laude, B.A.

CURRENT Occupation: PartnerDilworth Paxson LLP

QUALIFICATIONS FOR THIS OFFICE: Appellate Judicial Clerk, Deputy Attorney General,PartnerDilworth Paxson LLP, 30 years trial and appellate experience, 10 years local electedofficial, significant community and pro bono service.

QUESTION: What three suggestions do you have to improve court procedures and efficiency? Increased use of alternate dispute resolution alternatives Streamline procedural rules Increased use of technology to reduce court costs and administration

Joseph C. Waters, Jr. (Democrat)No response received

Jack McVay, Jr. (Democrat)Home address, Pittsburgh, PA 15232Business address: Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas, Pittsburgh, PA

Email [email protected] of Birth: June 28, 1956Candidate for: Superior Court Judge

Education: Duquesne University School of PharmacyBachelor of Science 1980University of PittsburghSummer classesDuquesne University School of Law - Juris Doctorate 1984

CURRENT Occupation: Allegheny County Common Pleas Judge, Family Division

QUALIFICATIONS FOR THIS OFFICE: Assistant County SolicitorAllegheny County 1984-1992 1997-2007 Assistant City SolicitorCity of Pittsburgh 1995-1998 Allegheny County Housing Authority 1993-1995

Highly Recommended by the Allegheny County Bar Association; Recommended by thePennsylvania Bar Association.QUESTION: What three suggestions do you have to improve court procedures andefficiency?
http://www.vicstabile.com/http://www.vicstabile.com/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.vicstabile.com/


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Utilize technologic advances like video conferencing, Skype and other innovations tomake court more accessible.

Expand hours to evenings and weekends to accommodate working families. Extend the rule apply to the appellate courts that Pennsylvania trial judges in the lower

courts must follow in cases involving children requiring action with 30 days when their

decisions are appealed.

BUCKS COUNTY ROW OFFICES

BUCKS COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEYJOB DESCRIPTIONThe District Attorney is the chief criminal law enforcement officer and public prosecutor in the county.He or she prepares and prosecutes all criminal cases and argues appeals in state appellate and federalcourts. The District Attorney signs all bills of indictment and prosecutes all criminal cases for the state.He/she appoints assistants, detectives, and clerks to assist in criminal investigations and trials. The DA iselected by the public every 4 years, and is considered a row officer.

Term: 4 yearsSalary: $172,271

Unopposed

QUESTION: What goals do you have for the District Attorneys office and what makes you the

best candidate to fulfill this position?

David W. Heckler (Republican)Hometown: DoylestownDOB: March-47Education: GraduateCentral Bucks H.S., Yale University, University of Virginia School of LawOccupation: District Attorney of Bucks CountyQualifications: 7 years Deputy DA, 7 years Counsel to Pa. District Attorneys Association, Legislator,

Bucks County Judge; served as Chairman Pa. Sentencing Commission and last year chaired the Pa. TaskForce on Child Protection.Answer to question: During my first term, a lifetimes experience plus a talented senior staff enabled meto assemble and lead a highly effective team of prosecutors, investigators and support personnel. Wehave done our basic job of protecting the public by working with police to solve crimes and convictcriminals. We have also made significant innovations, including establishing the most successful DrugTake-Back program in Pennsylvania - over 8 tons collected to date, initiating a Veterans TreatmentProgram and a County Crash Investigation Team. We have also established a much-needed ToxicologySection in our Crime Lab, striven toward digitalized office operations and partnered in the FBI RegionalComputer Forensic Laboratory. Our greatest challenge going forward is retention of experiencedprosecutors despite low pay.

BUCKS COUNTY SHERIFFJOB DESCRIPTION

The sheriff, as an officer of the court, serves writs, warrants, summonses, and other judicial documents.The sheriff also executes sheriff's sales and carries out orders of the county court. In some counties,deputy sheriffs provide courthouse security and transport prisoners. The sheriff is responsible for issuinggun permits.Term: 4 yearsSalary: $ 82,250

(Vote for 1)


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QUESTION: What changes, if any, would you implement in your office to better serve the citizens

of Bucks County?

Edward Duke Donnelly (Republican)No Response Received

Tom Lingenfelter (Republican)Hometown: DoylestownDOB: Aug-38Education: B.A. (History) Kings NY, 30+Masters degree credits at Temple U (Education-Psychology). Military Intelligence (CIC) SchoolOccupation: Business/HistorianQualifications: Top Secret Special Agent for USA Counter-intelligence. Expert in all Military rifle andpistol competitions. Historical Investigations/researcher, Misc. investigations. BusinessCorp. Pres.Educator and lecturer re: Declaration of Independence, US Constitution, historic guns, election law, etc.Answer to question: Restore the Constitutional and historic functions of the Sheriff as the Chief LawEnforcement Officer of the County. Implement: educational programs related to gun permits, Rights of

debtors in sheriff sales, volunteer school safety programs. Restore respect for the Office of Sheriff bydemanding professionalism from ALL deputies. Political cronyism will not be tolerated. I believe inpreventing problemsnot creating them!

Dennis McCauley (Democrat)Hometown: DoylestownDOB: Oct-57Education: Master's Degree in Criminal Justice Administration from VillanovaOccupation: Director of Security at Bucks County Community College; Retired Abington Policedivision commanderQualifications: Three decades of police and public safety leadership experience; Currently serve as vice-president and Public Safety Chairman for Doylestown Borough Council; Member of Bucks County Police

Chiefs AssociationAnswer to question: I will bring law enforcement managerial expertise, energy, integrity and vision tothe Sheriff's Office. I will rebuild the Sheriff's Office into a public safety agency that Bucks County canbe proud of. I will rid the office of scandals, mismanagement and divisive politics. For those serving asdeputies, I will be a full-time leader, not a political figurehead. I will modernize the Sheriff's website anduse social media to better inform and serve citizens.

BUCKS COUNTY PROTHONOTARYJOB DESCRIPTION

The prothonotary is a clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, administering the records of civil proceedings.Some additional duties include processing naturalizations papers and issuing passports.Term: 4 yearsSalary: $ 82,250

(Vote for 1)


of Bucks County?

Michelle Christian (Republican)Hometown: HollandDOB: Jul-74


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Education: B.S. Criminal Justice, St. Johns University, 1995. J.D., Seton Hall University School ofLaw, 1999Occupation: AttorneyQualifications: I am a practicing attorney with an office in Bucks County and I handle cases in manyPennsylvania counties. My experience has provided me with knowledge of the best practices used inProthonotarys offices.

Answer to question: Introduce electronic filing, thereby allowing individuals to file remotely andeliminate the need to travel to the Courthouse with multiple paper copies of the filing. I would alsoinitiate acceptance of credit card payments for filing fees. These improvements would expedite the filingprocess, increase efficiency, and decrease human error which saves taxpayers money. The office will becurrent technologically, cases will be handled efficiently, and people will be treated with courtesy andprofessionalism.

Patricia L. Bachtle (Republican)Hometown: NewtownDOB: Nov-39Education: Gwynedd Mercy CollegeOccupation: ProthonotaryQualifications: 20 years experience doing the job and protecting taxpayers: professionally managing alarge staff and implementing new technologies to save taxpayers more than $130,000 per yearall whilecutting the size of my staff, cutting costs, and always working full-time in the job.Answer to question: The next four years in the Prothonotarys office are critical for taxpayers which iswhy Ill work full-time, every day, as I always have. Im prepared to successfully transition to the newjustice center which will allow for improvement technological improvements and efficiencies in the wayour office operates. We will build on our already existing innovative case management system as well asexpand our pay-per-page services which save taxpayers money.

Ronald J. Smolow (Democrat)Hometown: Upper MakefieldDOB: Jan-50Education:Occupation:Qualifications: I have practiced law in Bucks County for 38 years sincegraduating from Penn State and Temple Law School. During this time, Ive handled a wide range of legalmatters with a focus on litigation and consumer issues. This experience has given me first handknowledge of the Prothonotarys office.Answer to question: I will replace the Prothonotarys old-fashion paper system with a cost efficient E-Filing system. This will provide better service at less cost to tax payers. It will enable lawyers, judgesand the public to file/retrieve documents electronically while substantially reducing the cost of handlingpaper files. I will add Saturday morning hours to make the office more convenient for obtainingpassports. I will provide better oversight to avoid misuse of subpoenas and other official documents.

BUCKS COUNTY RECORDER OF DEEDS

JOB DESCRIPTIONThe Recorder of Deeds maintains the record of real property in the county, including titles and liens onproperty. The recorder also keeps records of military discharges.Term: 4 yearsSalary: $ 82,250

(Vote for 1)


of Bucks County?

Joseph Szafran (Republican)


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No response received

Alex Lipton (Democrat)No response received

BUCKS COUNTY COUNTY CONTROLLERJOB DESCRIPTIONThe controller gathers budget information, prescribes accounting systems to be used in county offices,approves all bills, audits books of all county officers, and makes financial reports at the end of the year.Term: 4 yearsSalary: $ 82,250

(Vote for 1)


of Bucks County?

Raymond F. McHugh (Republican)No response received

John Jordan (Democrat)Hometown: CroydenDOB: Jul-64Education: Bachelors in MarketingOccupation: ConsultantQualifications: 21-year Banking veteranAnswer to question: I am a 22 year Banking Veteran. I am also a Community Leader with a verifiabletrack record of success in activism, economic and community development. In these difficult financialtimes, it is time to ensure our taxpayers that all their tax dollars are appropriately utilized by holding allcounty departments accountable. I am no stranger to hard work I spent most of 2012 fighting the attackson Voting Rights with the Voter ID Law in PA.

MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT JUDGESJOB DESCRIPTION

Magisterial District Justices represent the first level of the court system. They have jurisdiction over suchoffenses as traffic violations, landlord/tenant matters and civil actions involving less than $8,000, andthey preside over arraignments and can fix and accept bail in criminal cases not involving murder orvoluntary manslaughter. Those justices who are not lawyers must complete a course of instruction andpass an examination before taking office.Term: 6 yearsSalary: $ 86,639

(Vote for 1)

QUESTION: What goals and recommendations do you have to improve the administration of

justice in Bucks County?

DISTRICT 07-1-02

Frank W. Peranteau, Sr. (Republican/Democrat Cross-Filed)Hometown: BristolDOB: Mar-49Education: West Chester University, B.S. Degree Criminal JusticeOccupation: Magisterial District Judge


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Qualifications: Elected Magisterial District Judge for over 11 years. Certified By PA Minor Judiciary.28 year Career in Law Enforcement retiring as Chief of Police.Answer to question: Continue to safe guard the rights of the residents in Bucks County. This is done byproviding fair, timely and equitable handling of their concerns. We must also take advantage of theincreasing technology will make the contact that individuals have with the courts an easier, lesscomplicated experience.

DISTRICT 07-1-03

Joanne V. Kline (Republican/Democrat Cross-Filed)No response received

DISTRICT 07-1-07

Daniel Baranoski (Republican/Democrat Cross-Filed)Hometown: HulmevilleDOB: Jul-65Education:Occupation:Qualifications: Daniel Baranoski earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in

Criminal Justice from Temple University with Magna Cum Laude honors in 1987. He attended WestChester University and the University of Phoenix in pursuit of a Master of Science Degree inAdministration. He was a police officer and detective for 24 years.Answer to question: Baranoski began his first term as Magisterial District Judge in 2008. He feels thathaving an opportunity to influence peoples lives through his position as MDJ early in their involvementwith the court has been most rewarding to him. He believes addressing risky behaviors like underagedrinking, drug use, and truancy at an early period in a persons life may help stop more serious problemsin the future. He takes the time needed to address each defendant individually.

DISTRICT 07-3-01

Maggie Snow (Republican/Democrat Cross-Filed)

Hometown: BuckinghamDOB: Apr-60Education: Pennsylvania State University, Bachelor of Arts, 1982; University of Denver College of Law,Juris Doctor, 1988Occupation: Magisterial District Judge District Court 7-3-01, 2008-presentQualifications: Chief Deputy District Attorney, 1988-2001, Bucks County criminal prosecutor, jury trialsGuardian Ad Litem, 2001-2007, child advocacy for at risk children and foster children.Answer to question: Establishing a Youth Aid Panel in Buckingham has been one way I have been ableto improve the administration of justice since I took office. Working closely with our local schools toeliminate truancy has also been a priority to ensure our children get the best opportunities to succeed inlife. I strive to treat everyone who appears in court with dignity, fairness and respect.


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Municipal Primary Election May 21, 2013

(C) Copyright 2013 LWVPACEF

School Directors4 Year Term

LWVPA description: The School Director as a member of the Board of School Directors shallequip, furnish and maintain the public schools in the District. Principal duties include appointingand/or dismissing superintendents, principals and teachers; levying and assessing school taxes;purchasing land; locating new buildings; adopting textbooks and courses of study; fixing salariesof teachers and other appointees of the Board.

All candidates for School Director were asked:What do you consider the two most important issues facing your school district and how

would you address them?

BENSALEM TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT

SCHOOL DIRECTORTerm: 4 years

(Vote for 4)

LWVPA description: The School Director as a member of the Board of School Directors shallequip, furnish and maintain the public schools in the District. Principal duties include appointing

and/or dismissing superintendents, principals and teachers; levying and assessing school taxes;purchasing land; locating new buildings; adopting textbooks and courses of study; fixing salariesof teachers and other appointees of the Board.All candidates for School Director were asked:What do you consider the two most important issues facing your school district and how


REPUBLICAN/DEMOCRATIC

Jason B. Harris (Cross-filed)No response received

Bill Nazzaro (Cross-filed)Hometown: BensalemCampaign Website: http://www.restoreintegrity.org/DOB: DEC 1974Education: MM, New England Conservatory of Music, 2001Occupation: Business analyst and system supporter, Novo Nordisk Inc.
http://www.restoreintegrity.org/http://www.restoreintegrity.org/http://www.restoreintegrity.org/


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Qualifications: Graduate of Bensalem public schools (Belmont Hills 1985, Armstrong 1988,BHS, 1992) Sunday School teacher, Bensalem Presbyterian Church (BPC); Chair of FinanceCommittee and Ruling Elder (BPC)Answer to Question: The job of the school board is oversight, and the board has been seriouslylax. Time card scandals, no show jobs, who knows what elsewe need to pay attention to

where our tax money goes and not allow hundreds of thousands of dollars to be stolen. I amrunning to ensure our tax dollars are put to proper use, to educate the children of Bensalem, notto pad the pockets of criminals.

Jennifer Ryan (Cross-filed)No response received

Peter R. Waitz (Cross-filed)Hometown: BensalemDOB: NOV 1939Education: Graduated Suffolk University 1962. Majored in Mathematics. Minors in Physics

and HistoryOccupation: RetiredQualifications: After volunteering in Bensalem schools, grades 4-7, it became obvious thatusing new math was the wrong way to teach our children math. Our students arent failing; our

method of teaching math is failing.Answer to Question: The most important issue facing all schools is the need to discontinueusing new math programs and to return to the basics. The new math is at the core of why we as anation, are 25th in the world teaching our kids math and science. New math is both expensiveand ineffective.

Eric Stern (Cross-filed)Hometown: BensalemCampaign Website: http://www.restoreintegrity.org/DOB: JUL 1960Education: B.A. , Temple University, 1982 (Psychology Major); M.S., Drexel University, 1986(Management Major)Occupation: V.P. / Senior Technology Officer, Hopewell Valley Community BankQualifications: Twentyfive year resident of Bensalem and all three of my children attendedand graduated from Bensalem school district. I started my career working in the fieldsVocational Education and Vocational Rehabilitation before moving into corporate positions.Answer to Question: I am running on the mantra of accountability, responsibility andtransparency. We need to be accountable and insure that proper controls and oversight are putin place to prevent future theft. We need to be responsible to the taxpayers and make sure thatfunds are well spent without adding to residents tax burdens. We need to be transparent and

encourage the public/parents to be more involved in both spending and educationalprogramming.

Kiran Patel (Cross-filed)Hometown: BensalemDOB: OCT-1966
http://www.restoreintegrity.org/http://www.restoreintegrity.org/http://www.restoreintegrity.org/


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Education: Mechanical Engineer (B.S.)Occupation: Self EmployedQualifications: Own and operate various small Businesses, former BankerAnswer to Question: School District Budget Deficit. I believe in the public school system. Mychildren attend Bensalem public schools, and I see firsthand the quality of the education they are

receiving. I am also a small business owner here in Bensalem, so I appreciate the importance ofholding the line on our school property taxes, and understand budgeting and eliminating wastefulexpenses. I believe in job-oriented education that will help students to get jobs in this verycompetitive job market.

Kim J. Rivera


DEMOCRATIC

Rizwan Khalid


BRISTOL BOROUGH

SCHOOL DIRECTOR4 Year (Vote for 4)


Danielle Webb (Cross-filed)No response received

John DAngelo (Cross-filed)

Education: MBA, Investment Management, Drexel UniversityOccupation: Financial AnalystQualifications: 25 years of broad Finance experience working for Fortune 100 Corporations; 12years serving on Bristol Borough School Board.Answer to Question: The cost of Special Education is clearly the most important issue facingthe Bristol Borough School District. It threatens our survival. Over the last several yeas, wehave experienced an enormous increase in our Special Education costs. With NO control overthese costs, we are forced to cut programs for all of our students to satisfy these unfundedmandates. My plan is to keep more Special Ed students within our district and meet their IEPs

internally. Ultimately, the state must provide increased Special Ed funding, which often is over$50,000 per student. I propose a tax on Natural Gas Drillers as a viable source of Revenue for

this purpose.

Kelly Cochran (Cross-filed)Education: Masters Degree in Education from Cabrini CollegeOccupation: Special Education Teacher, Owner ofNonas Loving Care Learning CenterQualifications: Fifteen years as an educator, served as a PFT Union Rep, served on the Board ofDirectors of N.E. Philadelphia Chapter of Parents Without Partners, served on both SchoolCouncil and Discipline Committees.


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Answer to Question: The most important issues facing our school district are the rising costs ofeducation and the decreased funding from Harrisburg. As a board member I will investigateways to fund our schools that would not increase the financial burden on our taxpayers. I wouldalso tirelessly petition officials in Harrisburg to reinstate lost funding. Decisions for our schoolsmust be in the best interest of our children and be economically acceptable for our residents.

Jason Lichter (Cross-filed)No response received

Mark R. Bartuska, Sr. (Cross-filed)No response received

David Chichilitti (Cross-filed)Education: Graduate of Mercer County Community College, Degree in Mortuary Science.Trained at Medical College of Pennsylvania for Pathologist Assistant.Occupation: Pathologist Assistant, Drexel University College of Medicine. Self employed

Embalmer.Qualifications: Served on School-board for 23 years. Positions held, President (9years), VicePresident (7 years)..Answer to Question: Maintaining the schools identity and existence without raising taxes.Keeping the high school open is my highest priority. With my 23 years of experience andworking with the administration. I would like to bring back some special education students thatare transferred out, as well as charter school students. This cost our district over 1 milliondollars. Work to expedite the development of Riverfront North, this would generate over$400,000 in school taxes.

DEMOCRATIC

James Kirk


Ralph DiGuiseppe, III


James Adamson


BRISTOL TOWNSHIPSCHOOL DIRECTOR4 Year (Vote for 4)


Katherine N. Bachman (Cross-filed)Hometown: LevittownDOB: DEC-1946


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Education: Graduate from Bristol Township School District. 12 credits, Bucks CountyCommunity CollegeOccupation: Retired from Bristol Township school District. Thirty years of service.Qualifications: On the school board now. Fourth year of service. Attended several conferenceson education in Hershey Pennsylvania and at the Bucks County Intermediate unit; Finance,

Curriculum, Operations, and Crate Arts Gala committees for Bristol Township schoolsAnswer to question: My issues in the district are to maintain and improve the districteducational programs and develop a sustainable, long term budget. Also give the besteducational experience for Bristol Township students. And retain and enhance the skills of thehighest quality teachers and staff and ensures that employees compensation is appropriate.School safety: we are all like a village from parent, teachers, staff, administrators, school board

members, and EMS, so that we have a policy plan

Wayne Turner (Cross-filed)No response received

James E. Baker Jr. (Cross-filed)Hometown: LevittownWebsite: http://www.bristoltwpdems.comDOB: JUN-1954Education: Woodrow Wilson High School graduate and trade schoolOccupation: Electrician (retired)Qualifications: I am a first term School Board member. My work history as a tradesman hasgiven me knowledge of operational and mechanical systems. I graduated from Bristol Townshipschools and have four grandchildren attending our school system.Answer to question: Bristol Township is challenged with aged, inefficient, highmaintenanceschool buildings eating up scarce dollars. Obsolete systemsnotably electrical andemergencyimpact educational quality and even safety. The other members and I are workingon ways to renovate, consolidate and replace old buildings with new (but fewer) buildingswithout raising taxes. Were exploring ways to save precious tax dollars and have already saved

millions through renegotiation of insurance, consolidation of bus routes, and curtailing low-demand programs.

William J. Keenan (Cross-filed)No response received

Craig Motyka (Cross-filed)No response received

Angela M. Nober (Cross-filed)Hometown: LevittownDOB: JUL-1961Education: BS Penn State UniversityOccupation: Oversee daily operations of 20 medical practices including family practice andspecialty practices. Manage 67 employees and 39 physicians.


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Qualifications: I believe I have the skills to analyze, collaborate, communicate and thinkcritically. I am knowledgeable and willing to continue to learn more about public education.Answer to question: Special Education. All children deserve an equal opportunity to reachtheir full potential. State policymakers must provide school districts relief from state mandatesand address state policies that add costs to our District that wants to provide the best educational

opportunities possible to their students. I will advocate for the development of a new specialeducation funding formula allocating state funds based upon the actual number of students withdisabilities enrolled in each district.

Frederick R. BlackNo response received

Jeannine M. Mancuso


CENTENNIAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

SCHOOL DIRECTOR

Region 1

4 Year (Vote for 1)

LWVPA description: The School Director as a member of the Board of School Directors shallequip, furnish and maintain the public schools in the District. Principal duties include appointingand/or dismissing superintendents, principals and teachers; levying and assessing school taxes;purchasing land; locating new buildings; adopting textbooks and courses of study; fixing salariesof teachers and other appointees of the Board.All candidates for School Director were asked:What do you consider the two most important issues facing your school district and how



Kati Driban (Cross-filed)No response received

Flemming Godiksen (Cross-filed)No response received

Region 2

4 Year (Vote for 1)

REPUBLICAN/DEMOCRATICBetty Huf(Cross-filed)Hometown: WarminsterDOB: MAY 1937EDUCATION: Graduate Centennial Schools, took classes at Penn State, Abington Campus


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OCCUPATION: Lead Communication Specialist-completed leadership classes AbingtonMemorial HospitalQUALIFICATIONS: PSBA advanced and master boardsmanshipANSWER TO QUESTION: Student and School safety-We have installed a new identificationscanning system in all schools and we have fortified our vestibules with a locking system.

PSERS financial burden on our Taxpayers, We need to revamp the whole system so it isreasonably friendly and not so heavily in dept. To provide the best education to all studentswhile keeping the budget under control by looking at the most economical process to enhanceour programs.

Mark Greiner (Cross-filed)Hometown: WarminsterDOB: JUL 1966EDUCATION: Bucks County Community CollegeOCCUPATION: Small Business Owner-Aquatic TechnicianQUALIFICATIONS:Ive been active in local politics in Bucks County for 22 years and have

been a resident ofthe Warminster community for over 12 years. Ive been involved withbusiness finance/budgeting for 26 years.ANSWER TO QUESTION: Centennial School Board has been criticized by the districtresidents for its lack of real oversight and transparency, this at a time when basic governmenttrust is at a historical low. I will be a strong advocate for our entire Centennial Schoolcommunity, its students, teachers and taxpayers.

Region 3

4 Year (Vote for 2)


Michael Hartline (Cross-filed)Hometown: WarminsterWebsite: http://www.WarminsterGOP.orgDOB: MAY 1967EDUCATION: BBA, Temple University, Fox School of Business, Philadelphia, PAOCCUPATION: Self-Employed; Electronic Asset RecoveryQUALIFICATIONS: Chair of Centennial Finance Committee; President Bucks IntermediateUnit #22; Member Pennsylvania School Boards Associations (PSBA); PSBA Legislative

Platform Committee; Nominated to PSBA Assistant Region Director for the BuxMont Region,

Area Six; Member, Keystone State Education CoalitionANSWER TO QUESTION: Student Security: At Centennial I have voted to put in theRapture Security System, fortified our existing vestibules and placed GPS Tracking on buses.Additionally, I plan to vote in favor of retraining our security team. Education: I haveconsistently voted to upgrade our curriculum and incorporate 21st century learning intoclassrooms this must continue to afford our students the tools to succeed. Retirement Reform: Iwill continue existing dialog for reform with our legislators.

Jane Schrader Lynch (Cross-filed)Hometown: Warminster


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DOB: DEC 1937EDUCATION:Temple University, St Josephs University, Bucks County Community CollegeOCCUPATION: Montgomery County Library System, Web Master & MarketingQUALIFICATIONS: 10 year Board Member, Chair of Education & Land Use Committee; PastPresident, Finance, Operations, Labor Relations, Committees.40 years Service to Warminster

Township; Supervisor, Park & Recreation, Zoning, Library Board.ANSWER TO QUESTION: 1. Public Employees Pension Crisis contribution rates willincrease: 2013-14 12.36% 2014-15 21.31%, 2015-16 29.15%. These huge increases are notaffordable to the Centennial Community and will reflect in Tax Increases to the public. Thisproblem was caused in 2001 when Act 9 was created by the State that did not require aproportional employee match. Centennial School Board has sent a Resolution to the Statedemanding reform and relief. (First in the State).

DEMOCRATIC

Jim Brickman


Herbert R. Utain

Hometown: WarminsterDOB: AUG 1936EDUCATION: Temple UniversityOCCUPATION: Sales & Marketing- Run my own business-18 years-IndependentQUALIFICATIONS: My communication skills-Motivational speaking- Organize and developnon-profit, non-political events for Bucks County-Organized and run job fairs with Career Linksand area of Aging. Ran Cancer Awareness with Abington Hospital. Write articles forcommunity newspaper. Officer , Bucks County Coalition of Seniors.ANSWER TO QUESTION: (No response received)

CENTRAL BUCKS SCHOOL DISTRICT

SCHOOL DIRECTOR

Region 4

4 Year (Vote for 1)


Jerel P. Wohl (Cross-filed) (Unopposed)No response received

Region 5

4 Year (Vote for 1)


Paul B. Faulkner (Cross-filed)No response received


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Michael St. John (Cross-filed)No response received

Eric Kieschnick (Cross-filed)

Hometown: ChalfontDOB: JUN 1977EDUCATION: I attended University of Tennessee.OCCUPATION: I am a contractor conducting background investigations for federal securityclearances.QUALIFICATIONS: I am a concerned father and district taxpayer with a passionate interest inthe good governance of our schools. My expertise is in research and creative problem solving.ANSWER TO QUESTION: I want to keep Central Bucks as an elite district in the country,benefitting property values and attracting employers. I will scrutinize recent Middle Schoolchanges and their cost to our childrens enrichment. I will empower teachers to nurture our

childrens success beyond standardized tests and resist recent efforts to inject politics into the

classroom. We must innovate to control costs, leveraging size as the third largest PA district,rather than jeopardizing quality through outsourcing.

Region 7

4 Year (Vote for 1)

REPUBLICAN

Stephen A. Corr (Unopposed)No response received

Region 9

4 Year (Vote for 1)

REPUBLICAN/DEMOCRATICJohn Gamble (Cross-filed) (Unopposed)No response received

COUNCIL ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT

SCHOOL DIRECTOR

Region 3

4 Year (Vote for 1)


Edward W. Farling, III (Cross-filed)Hometown: HollandDOB: JAN 1964EDUCATION: Rider University, Bachelors Degree in accountingOCCUPATION: Controller--Accounting


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QUALIFICATIONS: Oversee large capital and expense budgets; Conduct public meetings;Operate under PA public officials ethics and sunshine laws; Public service through communityand church organizations; Manage DB pension and self-insured health care plans; Extensivecontract administration.ANSWER TO QUESTION: The issue: Ensure taxes are held to acceptable levels, and that

taxpayer dollars are spent effectively. My professional experience has taught me the importanceof spending and investing limited resources effectively. My service on the Northampton, BucksCounty, Municipal Authority board reinforced my high regard for open and transparent publicpolicy making; and using care in spending other peoples money. I will bring this unique

combination of experiences to bear on the job of school director.

Denise Brooks (Cross-filed)Hometown: RichboroWebsite: http://ww.electdenisebrooks.comDOB: NOV 1962EDUCATION: BA, Brandeis University,

OCCUPATION: Research DirectorQUALIFICATIONS: I have 19 year of business experience with expertise in finances, criticalthinking, data analysis. For 16 years Ive held leadership positions in PTOs, CR committees and

community education groups, giving me exceptional knowledge of the district and demonstratingmy commitment to the community..ANSWER TO QUESTION: The most important issue is ensuring a quality educationalprogram during difficult economic times. Ill carefully scrutinize expenditures to secure the best

value for our tax dollars. Also important is the need for comprehensive long term planning. Iwill analyze priorities in areas such as investigate issues and make decisions in consideration ofall stakeholders.

Region 6

4 Year (Vote for 1)


Mark Byelich (Cross-filed)Hometown: IvylandWebsite: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mark-Byelich-for-Council-Rock-School-Board/499330440110393

DOB: MAY 1968EDUCATION: BA Lesley UniversityOCCUPATION: Financial ConsultantQUALIFICATIONS: My experience in law enforcement and finance put me in a uniqueposition to look at the issues from several points of view. As a Council Rock graduate, I have adeep commitment to the district and its taxpayersANSWER TO QUESTION: Providing the best education possible for the most affordable costis the delicate balance we must manage. Important issues such as school security, decreasingenrollment and shifting populations, increased pension obligations, and maintenance of olderbuildings are immediate issues that must be prioritized and managed in a fiscally responsible
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manner. With my expertise in strategic financial planning, I will work closely with theadministration and the other board members to maintain this balance.

Edward Mayer (Cross-filed)Hometown: Churchville

Website: www.MAYERFORSCHOOLBOARD.comDOB: NOV 1958EDUCATION: Temple University School of Law, J.D./Doctorate in Jurisprudence; HolyFamily University, B.A./ Management Information Systems; Summa cum laudeOCCUPATION: Director, Business & Information Technology, CignaQUALIFICATIONS: CRSD experience (M.M. Welch, RMS, CR South) Sound fiscalstewardship (balanced multi-million dollar budgets); Leadership and Service (U.S. Navy, provenbusiness leader, NonProfit Board Service.ANSWER TO QUESTION: The most important issues facing CRSD: (1)providing qualityeducation at a reasonable cost by attracting the best teachers and implementing fiscally soundbudgets; (2) sustaining our high academic standards by continuously improving and evaluating

our programs; (3) managing facilities including a systematic phase out of trailers and aginginfrastructure; (4) enhancing the safety and security of all of our schools and facilities; and (5)communicating openly and transparently between all Northampton stakeholders and CRSD.

Region 8

4 Year (Vote for 1)


Theodore Caputi (Cross-filed)Hometown: New HopeWebsite: www.CaputiForSchoolBoard.comDOB: AUG 1994EDUCATION: Senior at Council Rock North; will attend University of Pennsylvania WhartonSchool of Business (class of 2017) study finance and public policyOCCUPATION: Student, Part-time Research Assistant at Treatment Research InstituteQUALIFICATIONS: Treasurer of Bucks County Drug and Alcohol Commission ($7millionbudget), Founder/President 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization focused on developing studentleadershipANSWER TO QUESTION: CR faces two major challenges: Controlling costs and improvingeducation outcomes. As the only candidate with experience managing public dollars, I willnavigate through tough financial times while preserving services. Secondly, average PSSAscores in the Central Bucks School District have surpassed ours and theyve done it whilespending $3000 less per student. We owe it to students and taxpayers to identify transferable andefficient practices that can help our district regain its competitive edge.

Diana Nolan (Cross-filed)Hometown: New HopeWebsite: www.nolanforcr.comDOB: MAR 1965EDUCATION: B.S.N. from Holy Family University
http://www.mayerforschoolboard.com/http://www.mayerforschoolboard.com/http://www.caputiforschoolboard.com/http://www.caputiforschoolboard.com/http://www.nolanforcr.com/http://www.nolanforcr.com/http://www.nolanforcr.com/http://www.caputiforschoolboard.com/http://www.mayerforschoolboard.com/


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OCCUPATION: Upper Makefield Resident 12 yearsQUALIFICATIONS: Mother of fine C.R. graduates, one current student. Regularly attendedC.R. Board meetings the last five years and am cognizant of the issues. Co-Chair Sol Feinstonespring fair, Girl Scout leader, CCD teacher, Project HOPE volunteerANSWER TO QUESTION: School taxes have gone up in seven of the past eight years.

Changes in pension funding requirements will substantially increase labor costs over the nextseveral years. Combined with a bloated bureaucracy and excessive capital spending, we arelooking at the likelihood of large tax increases in the future. We need to start making thedifficult decisions that will allow us to provide our students with a high quality education thatour taxpayers can afford.

Andy Block(Cross-filed)Hometown: Washington CrossingWebsite: www.ANDYBLOCKFORSCHOOLBOARD.comDOB: OCT 1969EDUCATION: B.S.Economics, The Pennsylvania State University

OCCUPATION: Sales and General ManagementQUALIFICATIONS: 20 + years of professional experience managing large budgets, complexorganizations & facilities across a range of industries and geographies. I have led efforts in mycommunity to improve services and minimize costs to taxpayers.ANSWER TO QUESTION: Escalating costs outpacing revenues: a. State-mandated pensionfunding, b. Healthcare, c. Staff compensation, d. Capital Improvements: $121 M needed forfacilities and safety. I would address this by directing the administration to complete acomprehensive Strategic Plan for facilities, by proactively engaging our partners to develop asolution for escalating staff costs; and helping to develop a culture that measures and valuesreturn on investment.

Region 9

4 Year (Vote for 1)


Le Sheppard (Cross-filed)Hometown: NewtownWebsite: http://www.LeSheppard.comDOB: MAY 1956EDUCATION: I attended University of Tennessee.OCCUPATION: I am a contractor conducting background investigations for federal securityclearances.QUALIFICATIONS:Were all qualified to be a parent, tax payer, andhave a voice on the School Board. Owning TSG creations, being a Digital Artist, my arteducation, and my experiences in the music industry are not why I am running. I bringan dedication to awareness, people, and to public educationANSWER TO QUESTION: Without process, all issues fail. That process is about all of us. In2008 I was labeled an "Open government activist" .That is my philosophy of government. Schooltaxes are
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the biggest part of our property tax burden. We need "Everything on the table and everyoneinvited to the table". I strongly believe in public education. We must work as a community ofparents and empty nesters to maintain our excellent school district.

Kyle McKessy (Cross-filed)


MORRISVILLE BOROUGH SCHOOL DISTRICT

SCHOOL DIRECTOR

4 year term (Vote for 4)

DEMOCRATIC/REPUBLICAN

Ivan ColonNo response received

Joe Gilleo

Hometown: MorrisvilleDOB: June-1973Education: Pennsylvania Electrician ApprenticeshipOccupation: Electrical SupervisorQualifications:N/AAnswer to question: We need to find a balance between whats in our childrens interest

educationally, and whats in our neighborhoods best interest economically.

Jon Perry

Hometown: MorrisvilleDOB: May-1964Education: B.S. Mechanical Engineering, Penn StateOccupation: Senior Project Manager for a Global Environmental. Consulting FirmQualifications: Im a parent, homeowner, and taxpayer actively engaged with the School Boardfor many years. My business profession involves working in teams on complex technicalprojects for various customers, and managing staff, budgets, schedules, and communications.These skills are valuable in being an effective School Board member.Answer to question: The biggest challenge facing the School District is providing a qualityeducation for our students at a cost our community can afford. As a School Board member, Iwant to make informed, balanced decisions about education and taxes, and be fair and open-

minded about ideas to deliver strong educational offerings in innovative ways, save money, andkeep taxes under control.

Ronald Stout


Daniel Dingle

Hometown: Morrisville


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DOB:

Education: Monmouth UniversityOccupation: Hospital DirectorQualifications: In addition to my work experience where I have operational oversight forseveral departments and a multi-million dollar budget I am a current Morrisville School Board

Treasurer/Member and a member of Morrisville Opportunity Educational Foundation Board ofDirectors.Answer to question: Our school district is currently faced with issues surrounding its financialsustainability and the educational offerings of our students. We need to work on solutions thatprovide a balance which can strengthen Morrisville overall. Since strong schools make bettercommunities we need to seek alternative sources of funding for our schools; use tax dollarswisely; and improve on the educational opportunities the district can provide to all students.

NESHAMINY SCHOOL DISTRICT

SCHOOL DIRECTOR

Region 014 year term (Vote for 1)


Scott E. CongdonNo response received

Region 02



Mike Morris


DEMOCRATIC

Doug SuesseggerHometown: LevittownDOB: October-1983Education: B.A. Magna Cum Laude, Drew University; Bill Gates Millennium ScholarOccupation: Sales Executive

Qualifications: Possess 10+ years of governmental experience serving a Governor,Congressman, State Assembly members, and was chief of staff for a Mayor where I worked ondeveloping and managing a $90M+ budget that improved services while holding down taxes.Answer to question: With plummeting PSSA scores, contract impasses, and a diminishedreputation, Neshaminy leaders must not use their position to play politics. I will re-focus thebusiness of the board on strengthening our community, not dividing it. I will dedicate the energyneeded to elevate the quality of education without needlessly burdening taxpayers. Its time for a


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forward thinking leader to ask the hard questions and make the difficult decisions necessary toput Neshaminy back on trace.

Region 3



Irene Boyle

Hometown: LanghorneDOB: none givenEducation: MA in Public Administration (Kent State)Occupation: Retired Financial Manager, Temple UniversityQualifications: 30 years administrative experience in academic/fiscal issuesAnswer to question: Most important issue facing the school district is the settlement of theNFT contract. As a member of the negotiating committee for five years, I feel that continuity of

that committee is the most efficient way of bringing this conflict to a successful completion.Another important issue is school consolidation. Working with the Administration and citizencommittees, centralization of elementary schools will enable us to manage existing fundsefficiently.

Ron Rudy

Hometown: Middletown (Langhorne)DOB: September-1955Education: Associate Degree Bucks County Community College (1977)Occupation: Construction ContractorQualifications: Self-employed businessman for 30 years; Middletown Republican Chairman forthe last 5 years; Election Committee Chairman for Republican Neshaminy School Boardcandidates. Campaigned on behalf of Republican candidates for Neshaminy School Board forthe past 20 years.Answer to question: The primary issues facing Neshaminy continue to emanate from theunresolved NFT contract. While unlikely to be resolved by the efforts of one Board member, Ican provide the assurance of my support of the present Boards very generous offer and urge the

NFT to accept as is and without a past practice clause. Students programs, which mightotherwise have to be eliminated, should take precedence over providing perks entirely unique toNeshaminy teacher retirees.

NEW HOPESOLEBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT

SCHOOL DIRECTOR



Neale Dougherty

Hometown: LumbervilleDOB: February-1968


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Education: University of Pennsylvania, B.A.Occupation: Insurance MarketingQualifications: Having owned and consulted with successful businesses, I will bring to theschool board the leadership, communication and management skills that distinguish effectiveorganizations. I have a clear vision of how to improve the districts quality, for your children

and mine.Answer to question: The most important issues facing the district are the need to improveacademic standards and the responsible allocation of taxpayer money. Taxpayers should feelconfident that tax dollars are utilized in the most effective way toward teaching students in theclassrooms not funding special interests. Students, teachers and parents should feel secureknowing resources have been maximized so students will have the opportunity to learn in anenvironment with an effective student-teacher ratio.

Adrienne Deussing

Hometown: SoleburyDOB: not given

Education: not listedOccupation: not listedQualifications: Actively participate in the school district, serving as Vice President of NHSHome & School Association and weekly volunteer in activities at both the Lower and UpperElementary Schools over the last 5 years. Prior professional career at CPA.Answer to question: Making educated and fair decisions as School Director that are fiscallyresponsible are essential to consistently improving the quality of education for all our students.Inspiring more of our children into math and sciences. Retaining highly qualified faculty andstaff, and maintaining the highest level of safety and standards in our district.

Tracy Keyes

Hometown: New HopeDOB: May-1970Education: M.S. Child DevelopmentOccupation: College Professor of Elementary EducationQualifications: Background in education. Experience serving on committees and in leadershiproles. Published in educational journals. Presented at national conferences.Answer to question: Ineffective board leadership is beginning to change our district. As aboard member, I will keep the district headed in the right direction. As a parent, I will beconservative, transparent and ensure every tax dollar spent in the district directly impactsstudents. As a college professor, academic excellence and data-driven decisions are my goal. Iam grateful my children attend an exceptional public school district; eager to offer professionalexperience and skills to benefit students and taxpayers.

Sandra Heath Weisbrot

Hometown: New HopeDOB: March-1980Education: B.S. Exercise ScienceOccupation: Stan-at-home MotherQualifications: Graduate of New Hope-Solebury and life-time resident


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Answer to question: No Response

John Vaughn


Amanda ElefanteHometown: New HopeDOB: June-1967Education: B.S. Electrical EngineeringOccupation: Director of RecruitingQualifications: Passionate about quality education, accountability to taxpayers, andpartnerships with our community. President for the past 15 months, collaborating with fellowBoard members to accomplish these key initiatives: Spanish K-5, Chinese 9-12, budget at indexof 1.7%, reduced one administrator position, academic audit of K-12 Math & K-12 Science.Answer to question: Implementing improvements for K-12 Math and K-12 Science, asidentified in the independent academic audit. Support the restructure of leadership within

curriculum development. Continuing to move the district forward in the face of continuedeconomic adversity, remains a challenge. New policies have been created that facilitatedonations from the community. Actively communicating the needs of the district and seekingout donations is the next step, while continuing to keep taxes at or below the index.

Marlene Panzica


Alison Kingsley

Hometown: New HopeDOB: May-1948Education: BS West Chester UniversityOccupation: RealtorQualifications: 50 years living, working, volunteering as President of the CommunityAssociation, New Hope Auto Show, Community School, Solebury Recreation Program,founding President of Friends of the Library, founding Vice-President of the National HepatitisB Foundation. Extensive contacts, networking and vision aimed at bringing the school andcommunity together.Answer to question: The biggest challenge facing all schools today is managing the delicatebalance of finances and the increasing costs associated with employee entitlements and salariesagainst the academic/activity/technology needs of the students and the rising concerns taxincreases by the voters. Creative initiatives to build public private partnerships, revenue sharing,divesting unused facilities, restructuring debt at current interest levels and involving thecommunity in problem solving have already yielded savings.

PALISADES SCHOOL DISTRICT

SCHOOL DIRECTOR

Region 01


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REPUBLICAN

James HallowellNo response received

DEMOCRATIC

Amleto A. Pucci, Jr.

Hometown: ErwinnaDOB: April-1949Education: PhD. In Mechanical Engineering from SUNY @ Stony Brook. independentOccupation: Practice as an independent consultant.Qualifications: My career began as a secondary school science teacher and later I was anenvironmental engineering professor. I administered the County Bureau of EnvironmentalHealth and many private sector engineering projects.

Answer to question: It is critical for our communities that schools help youth grow and realizetheir interests and find direction. Nothing is more important to sustaining our communities.Education has an important role to giving perspective in the quickening world of networking andconstant diversion. A real priority for the educators and board is to manage the public educationsystem effectively enough that development and realization can happen. It appears populationdeclines may require reductions in force.


Scott Freeman

Hometown: Upper Black EddyDOB: August-1971Education: CollegeOccupation: RealtorQualifications: Previous supervisor Nockamixon Planning Commission; served on budgetcommittee for River Valley Waldorf School; currently a council member of Upper TinicumLutheran Church; certifications in negotiations, management, investing, construction & realestate; owner/operated Freemans Bicycle Shop.Answer to question: I consider the most important issue facing our school system to be thebalancing act of maintaining a cutting edge education system while not increasing the tax burdenon our property owners. I believe this can be achieved through careful planning, spendingoversight, skillful negotiating and a willingness to face difficult decisions with an open mind.

Region 02 School Director

4 year term(vote for 1)


David F. Haubert

Hometown: Upper Black Eddy


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DOB: February-1970Education: Temple University B.A.Occupation: Business OwnerQualifications: As owner of Colonial Woods Family Camping Resort, I have experience inmanaging budgets, leading staff, setting policies and priorities. I was previously employed as a

Federal Law Enforcement Officer for the United States Customs Service. Im also an ArmyVeteran of the Gulf War.Answer to question: The most important issue facing Palisades School District is finding a wayto maintain a superior educational experience for the children in our community while workingwithin a fiscally responsible budget. School Districts are dealing with decreased federal andstate funding while locally trying not to overburden residents. Utilizing my business experience,I would ensure that all actions or policies support the primary goal of enhancing the educationalexperience of our children.

REPUBLICAN

Robert deGrootHometown: RevereDOB: March-1943Education: One Year CollegeOccupation: MerchantQualifications: Have been a School Director for 11 years. Have lived in the School District for68 years.Answer to question: Fiscal ResponsibilityAll School Districts will be hit harder in the nextfew years, with the pension spike years 2013-2014, the rate for pension will be 16.93% of yourschool salaries. This will be going up to 25+%.


4 year term (vote for 1)


Edward W. Ruisz

Hometown: RiegelsvilleDOB: July-1955Education: Masters Degree, Kutztown University, 1983Occupation: Retired Palisades Social Studies Teacher: Current President Ed Ruiszs SpeedAdvantageTraining Inc.; Co-Head Strength Coach, Lehigh UniversityQualifications: With thirty-four years in public education I have experience in how to preparestudents for success after graduation while avoiding programs that do not work and wastevaluable financial and human resources.Answer to question: I believe it is vital that we graduate students prepared to meet thechallenges of college or the world of work. Competition for positions is now global and ouryoung people must be able to critically think, write intelligently, and access information as wellas anyone else in the world. The Palisades School District must be focused on these goals anddiscontinue programs and methods that do not address them.


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DEMOCRATIC

Bruce WhitesellNo response received

PENNRIDGE SCHOOL DISTRICT

SCHOOL DIRECTOR



Suzette Schmidt

Hometown: PerkasieDOB: February-1964

Education: BA MarketingPennsylvania State UniversityOccupation: HomemakerQualifications: 13 years of volunteer experience with the Pennridge School DistrictAnswer to question: The most important issues facing any school district today is the challengeof controlling finances while providing students with a quality education. How to get the mostfor your money while maintaining programs but also without placing that burden on taxpayers.Nobody has the perfect answer but with responsible spending and allocation of resourcesavailable, this goal can be accomplished. We need cohesion among the board and open-mindedthinking to move forward and progress toward these goals.

Scott Edgell

Hometown: PerkasieDOB: May-1959Education: Master of Science in Management-Florida Institute of TechnologyOccupation: Independent Sales RepresentativeQualifications: Former teacher, parent of 13 year old student. Regular attendee at DistrictBoard Meetings. Former President of Pennridge Taxpayer Group, Member of PennridgeCommunity Education Summit.Answer to question: The Pennridge School District is facing several very difficult issues in theimmediate future: hiring a new Superintendent, negotiating a new teacher contract and supportpersonnel contract, the looming pension crisis and the implementation of an updated technologyinfrastructure and the continued integration of technology into the classroom. Addressing these

issues will take strong leadership during these slow economic times with stagnant incomes andthe increasing cost of living.

Bill Cranford

Hometown: PerkasieDOB: May-1969

Education: B.S., LaSalle University; M.G.A., University of Pennsylvania.Occupation:


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Qualifications: I have 15 years of budgeting experience that I want to bring to Pennridge tohelp my local community. While I do not profess to have all the answers, I believe I do have theexperience to ask the right questions.Answer to question: Pennridge is facing serious funding issues. We CANNOT tax our way outof our problems. We also cannot simply turn off the lights on our public schools by saying its

too hard to try. We need a balanced approach that benefits everyone. We need to find corporatepartners who are willing to help our schools and find non-taxing streams as we strategicallyreduce our costs. I humbly ask for your vote on May 21st.

Francis G. Peiffer

Hometown: OttsvilleDOB: None GivenEducation: BS Degree; MBA (Finance)Occupation: CPA; Federal Contracts AnalystQualifcations: Experienced School Director for 3 years. I am steadfast, honest, and untiringin getting the facts/. Fifty-one years in the contracting field. As a CPA for 43 years I understand

dollars and cents, i.e., where they come from and where they go.Answer to question: THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES: It takes three ingredients to producea quality education: children eager to learn, competent teachers and administration, and funding.The first two are not lacking at Pennridge. Without funding or money the first two cannot thrive.State and federal funding are decreasing not increasing. Therefore, it is critical to husband thefunding and spend it wisely,. Every dollar not spent prudently comes out of the childrens

education fund. We must all be involved in this pursuit.

Steven T. Ragomo


Barr R. CasperNo response received

Sue H. Furlong

Hometown: West Rockhill TownshipDOB: 60 Years OldEducation: Masters Business Administration: B.S. Business Management; Courses:Teachers Education Orientation, Foundation of EducationOccupation: Senior Financial AnalystFortune 500 CompaniesQualifications: Serve on Pennridge School Board4 years, PSBA conferences, researcheducationissues and PA statistics.Answer to question: Pennridge is in transition. A retiring superintendent, three principals, andtwo more next year. Retirement costs are rising millions. Support personnels contract is

expired and teachers contract expires next year. My business and ongoing board experience isvaluable. I believe in controlling costs and minimizing taxes. I voted for Reading Street, one-to-one pilot, music instrument replacements and uniforms, doubling the curriculum budget,improved security, AC in South and Central without raising taxes in two years.

Jaime Faucette


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Hometown: SellersvilleDOB: May-1958Education: B.A. in History with English minor, postgraduate studies.Occupation: Former high school English & P.E. teacher, mother of 11, parent volunteerQualifications: 24 years experience as classroom and homeschool teacher and parent of

homeschooled and Pennridge students PreK-12, volunteer reading tutor, president South MiddleSchool parent group, vocal advocate for fiscal responsibility.A B.A. in History with English minor prepared me for the roles of teaching high school English,teaching preschoolers in a fine arts program, tutoring reading as a volunteer, and teaching myown through homeschooling and assisting with Pennridge school homework. Volunteeractivities included president of the middle school SCN.Answer to question: First, parents, teachers, and professionals that hire our graduates concurthat Pennridge must strengthen the fundamentals of education: reading, writing, and mathcomputation. The Board should establish priorities and oversee the administrations efforts tochoose and implement curriculum strong in the basics. Second, the financial crisis of thelooming increase in pension commitments can only be averted by careful scrutiny of current

spending to identify cost-saving measures, reducing administrative costs rather than educationalspending.

PENNSBURY SCHOOL DISTRICT

School Director

Region 01



Simon Campbell

Hometown: NewtownDOB: August-1967Education: B.A. (Hons) Management SystemsOccupation: Independent Futures TraderQualifications: Four years experience in the position with a track record of never voting for a

property tax increase while ensuring that student test scores have improved.Answer to question: Pennsbury faces a financial crisis with the state mandated bailout of thepublic school employee retirement fund. It has the potential to cause significant property taxincreases and cuts to core educational programs. Thats why we are looking at tough but

necessary measures such as closing one of the elementary schools (under utilization of space),outsourcing some support staff functions to save $20 million over the five years, and negotiating

give backs from the teachers union.

Susan Simon

Hometown: NewtownDOB: April-1964Education: B.S., Electrical Engineering, Rutgers University; M.B.A., Monmouth UniversityOccupation: Engineer


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Qualifications: Susan worked as an Engineering Manager for Lockheed Martin. Susan hasserved on the Quarry Hill PTO Executive Board and has been Co-Chair of several committeesincluding Mother-Son Sports Night and Quarry Hills year-long 50th Anniversary Celebration.Answer to question: The budget shortfall is the biggest issue facing the Pennsbury SchoolDistrict. In the coming years, the amount of money that the district is legally required to pay into

the states public school employee retirement fund will continue to grow. We have to cut costswhile retaining quality educational programs and holding the line on property taxes. I will workto prioritize the needs of students and taxpayers ahead of the special interests.

Joshua L. Waldorf

Hometown: YardleyDOB: October-1963Education: MSB Johns Hospkins University; BA Boston UniversityOccupation: Account Manager, Active NetworkQualifications: 28 years of business and administrative expertise in private and not-for-profitsectors. Father of two children who thrived in Pennsbury Schools. Yardley Resident for 15

years. Belief that community support of public education benefits everyone with raisingproperty values.Answer to question: I am motivated to run by the serious financial challenges facing thePennsbury school district. With our districts limited resources in mind, I will balance the

educational values and quality our families demand with the concerns of the taxpayer. Solvingthe financial and other challenges including redistricting, crumbling infrastructure, outsourcing,academic rigor and safety can be achieved only by changing the tone of the Pennsbury SchoolBoard from one of contention to one of collaboration.

Debra Wachspress

Hometown: YardleyDOB: February-1966Education: M.A. in Public Policy; B.A. in Political ScienceOccupation: FundraiserQualifications: Professional with 25 years experience in fundraising and advocacy. I willwork to strike a balance between community needs and working with limited funds. I believethat better decisions are made when common sense and logic prevail over fear and zealotry.Answer to question: The current school board is bogged down with divisiveness and promotingan extreme ideological agenda at the expense of addressing important issues. We must reversethe recent decline of our statewide ranking and improve academic outcomes. To maintaincontrol over long-term costs, I oppose the sale of our bus fleet and the outsourcing of our busing.I support examining all alternative revenue streams to balance the budget.




Casey Lawrence

Hometown: YardleyDOB: May-1964


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Education: High School Diploma; BA in Film StudiesOccupation: Small Business Owner; Video Production CompanyQualifications: As a small business owner Casey will bring his passion for excellence ineducation and his fiscal budgeting skills to the position of School Board Director.Answer to question: Pennsbury taxpayers are experiencing financial hardships. At a time when

80% of their property taxes go directly to the schools, the district is 174 million in debt.Moreover, teacher compensation packages are among the highest in Pennsylvania. Outsourcingbus drivers is NOT the answer nor is raising taxes. We must better allocate the fund we have.We can retain exceptional employees, protect student programs, and represent those withchildren in the district and those without.

Allison Smith

Hometown: YardleyDOB: December-1954Education: BS Civil Engineer, UConnOccupation: Chief Engineer (youngest ever) on a Class 1 Railroad

Qualifications: Negotiated national revenue neutral labor contracts, managed billions of dollarsof construction/service contracts, reduced operating costs by 33% while improving performance300%, developed a department from being unranked to ranked 4th in the world for efficiency andeffectiveness. Developed many different funding sources, adding an additional $550 millionannually. Now retired.Answer to question: Districts scholastic ranking has dropped from 12

th to 120th; the Board isnot addressing this. Direct the Administration to provide the analysis, action plan, calendar andmonthly responsive report. Focus locally. Paying higher vendor fees, to bust the union, spendsmore money. Sign $0 cost labor contracts. Major corporations are now focusing on improvingpublic educationaccess some of the billions of dollars in grants available to help our budgetstatus and our state ranking.

Skip Tenney


Debra E. DeBlasio

Hometown: Fairless HillsDOB: May-1957Education: Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from Trenton State CollegeOccupation: Office ManagerQualifications: Experienced in budget planning and labor negotiationsAnswer to question: Pennsbury, like every school district in Pennsylvania, has heavy financialburdens in its effort to continue to maintain the best education for our students our tax dollarscan support. The current board majority has spent too much time and money looking to privatizeservices that are being done well already by staff that are members of our community. We needto deal with our financial burdens by working with our staff to come to revenue neutralagreements.

QUAKERTOWN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

SCHOOL DIRECTOR


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REPUBLICAN

Stephen J. Ripper

Hometown: QuakertownDOB: August-1947Education: Associate DegreeBCCC 1967; BFAPhiladelphia College of Art 1971Occupation: RetiredQualifications: Assoc. Prof. Fine Arts, BCCC1971-81; Designer/ArtisanArchitecturalWoodwork & Historical Restoration, Chairman of the Haycock Township Planning Commission,20 years; Zoning Hearing Board8 yrs., LecturerAnswer to question: To enable our system to deliver a well-rounded educational experiencefrom kindergarden through K12 in an efficient manor while maintaining high standards for ourchildren as they prepare for their goals in higher education and life. All parties within thecommunity must take a positive and active role from Parents, Administrators, Faculty and

Support Staff, working efficiently in their roles. Where possible and without diminishingservice, excess and inflated costs should be minimized.


Paul Stepanoff

Hometown: QuakertownDOB: October 1958Education: Masters Degree (BS in Chemical Engineering and MBA both from Penn StateUniversity.Occupation: Own a renewable energy company that designs and installs solar electric, solarthermal, wind, geothermal, etc. systems for residential, commercial, and institutional.Qualifications: 8 years on the QCSD school board. MBA (run district more like a businessthan a government monopoly).Answer to question: Tying accountability of the district, administration, and employees tostudent performance at the best value to the community. This is done by agreeing on whichmetrics best represent student performance, defining failure and success, setting measurablegoals, then rewarding based on performance to those goals.




Bob Smith




Charles Shermer

Hometown: Quakertown


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DOB: October-1956Education: Attended Moravian CollegeOccupation: Vice President, MVTS Technologies LLC, based in CarlsbadQualifications: 30 years in Semiconductor Industry, including key roles in ExecutiveManagement, Capital Procurement and Program Management

Answer to question: There are many issues facing QCSD right now. One of the major issues isspending. We need to make sure that every dollar collected is well spent for education. Thatmeans we work towards no tax increases through increased efficiencies. When a tax increase isneeded, it should not exceed the rate of inflation. We need to closely monitor our spending,progress and achieve all milestones on the High School Renovation project.




Municipal Primary Election May 21, 2013(C) Copyright 2013 LWVPACEF

TOWNSHIP OFFICES

All candidates for Township Supervisor were asked:WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER THE MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES FACING YOURCOMMUNITY AND HOW WOULD YOU ADDRESS THEM?

BEDMINSTER TOWNSHIPSUPERVISOR6 Year term (vote for 1)

REPUBLICAN

Glenn A. Wismer


TAX COLLECTOR

4 Year term (vote for 1)

REPUBLICAN

Patricia S. McVaugh

Tamatha Polichetti

BRIDGETON TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR6 Year term (vote for 1)

REPUBLICAN

Greg Gerhardt


TAX COLLECTOR



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REPUBLICAN

Pete Rosswag

BUCKINGHAM TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR6 Year term (vote for 1)

REPUBLICAN

Paul Calderaio


DEMOCRATIC

Michael Hutkin

Hometown: BuckinghamDOB: Dec-49Education: Associates Degree in Business AdministrationOccupation: Interior Decorator

Qualifications:Answer to question: Our supervisors' decisions dramatically impact our land and roads andstrong Zoning. SALDO (Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance), and innovativeenvironmental protections offer the best defense against reckless development. With theresurgence of the housing market, developers will soon follow. We all saw what happened in anearlier era when the developers seemed to be in charge of our township and has taken us years toregain control. We can't afford to lose the gains we have made.

TAX COLLECTOR


REPUBLICAN

Ann Calderaio

DEMOCRAT

Lisa Ganzer

DOYLESTOWN TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR6 Year term (vote for 2)

REPUBLICAN

Rick Colello

Hometown: Doylestown

DOB: July-1950Education: BS degree in Mathematics from St. Joseph's UniversityOccupation: Certified Financial Planner, Financial Advisor, Owner of Doylestown FinancialAdvisorsQualifications: Doylestown Township Supervisor, 2010-Present; 40 years of financialmanagement and business experience; 25 years working and volunteering with TownshipCommittees and Boards; Certified Master PlannerAnswer to question: Doylestown Township and its taxpayers face tight fiscal times but still


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need essential services and to deal with upcoming challenges. As Supervisor, I never raisedtaxes yet increased police services, improved our parks and much more. I am also proud that, asthe liaison to the Township's Sewer Committee, I have worked to address the issue of failingseptic systems head-on, to end the health risks they pose to our residents.

E. Thomas Scarborough, Jr.Hometown: DoylestownDOB: Sept-1940Education: Attended Delaware Valley CollegeOccupation: Retired Chairman Doylestown Township Board of Supervisors; Past President ofBucks County Association of Township Officials; Advisory Board Bucks County CommunityDevelopment Block Grant; Bucks County Social Services Sub-Committee; Central Bucks LandUse/Transportation Regional Planning Committee; Past Doylestown Boro CouncilmanAnswer to question: Born and raised in Doylestown, my roots go deep in this community. I'veseen this community grow and prosper. I want to utilize the skills I have gained through years inprivate industry, public and community service to forge bipartisan working relationships with

fellow supervisors to help ensure orderly, responsive and good government for the people ofDoylestown Township. My goal is to keep this township a great place to live, work and play.

Sean Sablosky

Hometown: DoylestownDOB: Dec-1964Education: Lyons TechOccupation: Real Estate BrokerQualifications: Experienced entrepreneur who has started and runs several successfulbusinesses. I know how to balance a budget, make payrolls, manage people and resources. Ialso have a lifelong history of community service.Answer to question: I'm running because I'm concerned about the increasing cost ofgovernment evidenced by the recent 41% tax increase. A family or business can't simply raiserevenue 41% to meet their commitments. A government shouldn't either. We need good peopleto bring fiscal responsibility to government at all levels. I'm also concerned about the increasingclimate of over regulation. We've lost sight of the fact that government's job is improvingquality of life for the taxpayers.

DEMOCRATIC

Larry Glick

Hometown: DoylestownDOB: Feb-1952Education: Bachelor's Degree in Business Management and graduate studies in businessOccupation: Police & Security ConsultantQualifications: Over 40 years experience in law enforcement and security. As OutreachDirector for former Congressman Patrick Murphy, my job was to listen to the public and workwith local municipalities on important issues.Answer to question: One of the biggest challenges facing Doylestown Township is developinga workable operating budget so we don't have to continually dip into the Township's reserves.


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Covering our current part-time township supervisors with full healthcare coverage of almost$19k per year per Supervisor is not feasible.Other issues include commercial and residential development, and planning for the challenges tosafe water, care of infrastructure, roads, and parks. Septic and sewer problems are not going togo away.

Ken SnyderHometown: DoylestownDOB: Jan-1953Education: B.S. Business Logistics, Pennsylvania State UniversityOccupation: Retired, Business pharmaceutical industry executive for 32 yearsQualifications: Currently serve on the Planning Commission. Successfully demonstratedthroughout my career how to manage, implement change, establish objectives and priorities andlong-term plans, make data driven decisions, embrace continuous improvement and listen. Allrequired skills.Answer to question: A critical item that has been lost over the past three years is the resident's

voice. We need to change the Board of Supervisors culture to one that truly engages residentsand ensures their voices are being heard and understood. This is critical to any successfulsolution for the township's issues today and in the future: financial stewardship (maintain taxes,increase revenue, eliminate nonessential spending), infrastructure (proactively manageseptic/sewers, bridges, roads, parks), and land development.

TAX COLLECTOR

4-Year term (vote for 1)

REPUBLICAN

Diane E. Scott

Sarah J. Tomlinson

DURHAM TOWNSHIPSUPERVISOR


REPUBLICAN

Bartley E. Millet


TAX COLLECTOR


REPUBLICAN

Patty Salva

EAST ROCKHILL TOWNSHIPSUPERVISOR


DEMOCRAT


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Gary Volovnik

Hometown: PerkasieDOB: Sep-1953Education: High School Diploma

Occupation: ManagerQualifications: 2013 is my 30th year as a Supervisor for East Rockhill Township. I alwayslisten to citizens and respond to their requests while still accomplishing goals & considering thefuture needs of the community.Answer to question: The economic downturn and unfunded Federal and State mandates haveput a strain on revenues for local municipalities. The Township looks to continue providingresidents with services they are accustomed to by looking at additional revenue sources such astower rent, higher bank interest rates, and adding a cost-effect

2013 May Primary Bucks County League of Women Voters Guide

Documents

Transcript of 2013 May Primary Bucks County League of Women Voters Guide