This election is like few others we’ve seen. With so many voters fed up with the course of governing — and with so many candidates struggling to tap into this palpable anger — 2010 brings a new strain of the old throw-out-the-bums electoral fever. There’s demagoguery out there, too, in this season of discontent. So it’s hard to know who’s telling it straight and who’s trying to exploit our body politic at a vulnerable moment.
When and Where to Vote
Election day November 2, vote in your neighborhood polling place from 7am to 8pm. Lost your polling place? Find it at www.mdelections.org.
In our 2010 Electoral Educator, we attempt to push candidates beyond the sound and the fury. We asked them to talk to you succinctly and directly about issues that touch us where we live: the quality of life in our communities and protecting and restoring Chesapeake Bay.
Here’s our question:
Tell us two of your ideas, being as specific as you can, for improving the quality of life for your constituents and returning the Chesapeake Bay to good health.
Many responded. Some, as you’ll see, couldn’t be bothered.
We hear the pundits describe this as a wave election because of the potent sentiment charging it. We’re hoping that the waves you keep in mind as you read these responses are those rolling in from Chesapeake Bay.
Who’s Here and Why …
Our 2010 Electoral Educator brings you the responses of candidates running for executive and legislative office from U.S. Congress to the Maryland Statehouse to Anne Arundel County’s executive and county council and Calvert County’s Board of Commissioners.
In the main, we surveyed candidates you’d chosen in the September Primary Election. That decision — taken pragmatically but reluctantly because of the enormity of the full role of candidates — means that most third-party candidates were excluded. The exceptions are third party candidates running closest to home (and therefore offering lively challenges): for Anne Arundel County executive and Calvert County commissioner.
Our questionnaire was mailed in late September, as soon as the results of the Primary Election were certified. Reminder telephone calls were made before and after our requested deadline, and many second and third questionnaires were mailed.
U.S. Congress, District 1
The Eastern Shore plus parts of Baltimore, Harford and Anne Arundel counties. In Anne Arundel, the First District balances one foot on the Pasadena peninsula, another on the Broadneck peninsula and a hand on Severna Park, Severn, Crownsville and Odenton.
As well as the main contenders, First District voters will find Libertarian James Richard Davis on the ballot. Independent Jack N. Wilson is also seeking write-in votes.
Andy Harris (R)
53-year-old resident of Cockeysville in Baltimore County. Two degrees from Johns Hopkins. Practicing obstetric anesthesiologist. Served 17 years in the U.S. Naval Reserve, with active duty in Desert Storm. American Legion Commander. Three-term conservative, low-taxes, small-government Maryland state senator seeking promotion to the U.S. Congress. In that quest, ousted seven-term Congressman Wayne Gilchrest in 2008 Republican Primary. Now trying a second time to beat Democrat Frank Kratovil.
Rated A (but not endorsed) by the National Rifle Association. Endorsed by Gun Owners of America, the Trust in Small Business and the National Taxpayers Union.
www.andyharris.com
The main way we can protect the quality of life is by protecting our children and grandchildren from the horrendous amount of debt Congress has placed upon them. If we do not stop Congress from its out-of-control spending, future generations are going to have to bear the burden of our mistakes. Congress needs to stop its out-of-control spending, instead of continuing to spend trillions on legislation that doesn’t create jobs or improve the economy. We need to work towards a balanced budget by actually cutting spending and paying off our debt. To do less is to fail our children and grandchildren by burdening them with mountains of our debt.
Maryland is not solely responsible for the Chesapeake Bay’s condition. The states in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed bear a strong load in preserving and protecting the Bay, and we cannot expect Maryland to be solely responsible for a problem it did not solely create. To restore the Bay, we need a regional approach, working with all the Watershed states, federal agencies and regulatory bodies to create a comprehensive, effective plan.
Frank M. Kratovil Jr. (D) incumbent
45-year-old resident of Stevensville in Queen Anne’s County. Degrees from Western Maryland College and University of Baltimore. Former prosecuting attorney. Served six years as Queen Anne’s County state’s attorney before winning election to Congress by less than one percent of the vote in 2008. Now the Blue Dog Democrat is trying to hold onto his seat in Congress.
Endorsed by the Maryland and District of Columbia Credit Union Association, the Veterans of Foreign Wars PAC, the Maryland Fraternal Order of Police, The National Rifle Association and the United States Chamber of Commerce; and by the Harford County newspaper The Aegis.
www.kratovil.com
The most important step toward improving the quality of life for my constituents is accelerating our economic recovery. I have focused on policies that create stability in our economy, cut taxes on small businesses and create jobs. Getting our federal budget under control is also essential to our long-term economic growth. I have fought for common-sense budget reforms like Pay-Go, a Balanced Budget Amendment and cutting wasteful programs. I have even introduced a bill that would cut discretionary spending by two percent over the next three years.
After more than two decades of largely unsuccessful initiatives to clean up Chesapeake Bay, we can and must do more. We must pursue a balanced approach that recognizes both the economic importance of a healthy Bay and the economic importance of our agriculture industry. We cannot improve water quality simply by unfairly targeting Maryland’s farmers. I have fought for proposals that encourage farmers to implement environmentally sustainable practices; helped secure the resources that we need to clean up Chesapeake Bay; and backed the landmark American Clean Energy and Security Act, which would help end our reliance on foreign energy, spur the development of clean, domestic energy sources and create jobs.
U.S. Congress, District 5
Maryland’s Fifth District includes Southern Anne Arundel, all of Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s, and parts of Prince George’s.
As well as the main contenders, Fifth District voters will find Libertarian H. Gavin Shickle on the ballot.
Steny H. Hoyer (D) incumbent
71-year-old resident of Mechanicsville, St. Mary’s County. Degrees from the University of Maryland and Georgetown University Law Center. After 12 years in the Maryland Senate — the last four as Senate President — has served 14 terms in Congress, most recently as No. 2 Democrat in the U.S. House. Known for constituent services and staying in close contact with district voters and interests, including funding Chesapeake Bay restoration.
Endorsed by local and national defense leaders, the Maryland and District of Columbia Credit Union Association, the Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO.
www.hoyerforcongress.com
Many Maryland families are struggling in this difficult economy, so my top priority will continue to be restoring our economy and creating jobs. In Congress, I have spearheaded the Make It In America agenda to increase manufacturing in the U.S. and create middle class jobs; provided tax credits to small businesses to expand; and helped stop jobs from being outsourced. I’m also working to ensure equal pay for women doing the same jobs as men, make college affordable for working families and ensure seniors and veterans receive the benefits they’ve earned — all critical issues in this economy.
I have been a longtime advocate for restoring and protecting Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. By working to accelerate progress toward restoration goals and targeting resources where they will have the most impact, we can protect this national treasure for generations to come. I remain committed to working with the administration and our regional congressional delegation to do our part to return Chesapeake Bay to good health.
Charles Lollar (R)
39-year-old resident of Newburg in Prince George’s County. Degrees from Emory University, Kennesaw University and Regent University. U.S. Marine on active duty in Kosovo; now an intelligence officer with the rank of major in the Marine Corps Reserves. Cofounder of Trinity World Christian Center in Douglasville, Georgia. On leave from facility services corporation Cintas, where he is a general manager in Prince George’s County. The conservative Tea Party sympathizer is a first-time office seeker in Maryland, though the Fifth has been in his sights for at least four years; in 2006, he ran the successful Republican Primary campaign of Collins Bailey — who he defeated this year for the Republican nomination.
www.lollarforcongress.com
Many too often take for granted that our quality of life rests solidly on our political and economic freedoms. As Ronald Reagan said, “They are what links life inseparably to liberty, what enables an individual to control his own destiny, what makes self-government and personal independence part of the American experience.” Defending our cherished constitutional freedoms is an unwavering commitment for me.
Returning Chesapeake Bay from years of abuse, toxic runoff and silting may be our toughest challenge on a regional basis. We may not likely restore Upper Marlboro as a Patuxent port. However, stewardship of the creation is a sacred trust for me. We must reverse the degradation, where possible, measured by decades, if not centuries, of loss. If we focus on the Bay alone, or specific species alone, e.g. the blue crab or oyster, progress is not likely. The health of the entire watershed must be embraced. I wish I had the quick solutions and specific answers. What I will do is take counsel from organizations promoting achievable outcomes such as local land trusts and public-private partnerships with established track records. I will support and reinforce efforts, initiatives and organizations holding to sensible and regional solutions.
Anne Arundel County Executive
Joanna L. Conti (D)
53-year-old Annapolitan and Marylander since 2006; Delaware native who boated on Chesapeake with her father. Degrees from the University of Delaware (chemical engineering) and University of Colorado, Denver (masters in international business); also Foreign Service fellowship, Georgetown University. Background in product development and marketing major brands (Procter & Gamble; Campbell Soup) and entrepreneurial start-ups from foods to recipe software to international foundations. Calls herself “a manager and change-agent who specializes in creating and turning around organizations,” including her husband’s Mentor Financial Group, a company whose product is seminars in making money in real estate. Making her second race for elected office after a failed 2004 congressional race in Colorado.
www.joannaconti.com
I am truly horrified by how the health of Chesapeake Bay has deteriorated in the last 30 years. As county executive, I am committed to meeting Maryland’s 2020 Total Maximum Daily Load pollution targets two years early by making major reductions in the pollution entering the Bay from leaking septic systems, stormwater runoff and raw sewage spills.
In compact areas such as Edgewater Beach where there are many failing septic systems, it probably makes more sense to convert the entire community to sewer than to convert individual septic systems to enhanced nitrogen-removal systems. We will identify communities where spending $3 to $5 million to upgrade to sewer is cost-effective, eliminate those whose residents are not receptive to sewer and seek federal and state funding to cover some of the cost of this work.
Raw sewage spills from wastewater treatment plants predominantly occur for two reasons: storm surges overwhelm the capacity of the plant, and back-up generators don’t work. We need to eliminate the mixing of stormwater and sewage, invest in better maintenance of our generators and move from ridiculously small ($100-$1,000) fines to zero tolerance of sewage spills into our rivers.
John R. Leopold (R) incumbent
67-year-old resident of Pasadena. 30-year state legislator in Hawaii and Maryland, where he served two terms. National Republican Legislators Association Legislator of the Year, 2005. In first term as Anne Arundel county executive, protected crucial areas and expanded open space purchases despite tight budgets and with no tax increases. In seeking a second term, defeated four candidates in the Republican Primary while defending himself against continuing claims of workplace sexual harassment.
Endorsed by AFSCME; former governor and candidate Bob Ehrlich; and Maryland League of Conservation Voters Anne Arundel Chapter.
www.johnrleopold.com
The most important way that the quality of life for Anne Arundel County’s citizens can be improved is through a comprehensive approach to future development. Such an approach requires a well-founded General Development Plan, consistent comprehensive rezoning and a strong determination to adhere to that Plan. My first term saw the enactment of the General Development Plan, which preserves the rural quality of South County and focuses growth at transit-oriented locations. While our Planning and Zoning Office reviewed over 400 requests for rezoning through the comprehensive rezoning process, I refused to approve any “spot zoning” requests from developers. When it comes to zoning and development plans, my policy is to do it right, not do it fast. If re-elected, my commitment is to continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure that county growth occurs in a comprehensive way.
To restore Chesapeake Bay to good health, I have approved over $80 million in sewer pumping station upgrades and over $19 million in sewer line rehabilitations. Since so much of our county is not on public sewer lines, I have aggressively sought Bay Restoration Funds to provide grants to county citizens seeking to upgrade their septic systems for enhanced nutrient removal. Anne Arundel County now leads the state in using these grants to reduce Bay pollution from private septic systems.
Mike Shay (Green Party)
60-year-old, 25-year Marylander living in Shady Side. Degree in business management from California State University at Long Beach. Small business owner in construction and river touring. U.S. Coast Guard 100-ton licensed captain of a skipjack and the restored 110-passenger motor cruiser Richard Lee. Community activist and co-founder of Southern Anne Arundel Chamber of Commerce, WRYR, a low-frequency FM radio station; and South County Citizens for Responsible Development, SACReD, which took to the streets and the media to beat back large-scale development in sensitive resource areas in Southern Anne Arundel County.
www.electmikeshay.com
The health of our local economies depends on the health of the Bay. Tourism, restaurants, marinas and recreational and commercial fisheries all depend on the reputation of the Chesapeake Bay brand. If we keep getting advisories from the county telling people to avoid contact with the Bay after it rains, our brand is tarnished and our economic model is gone for good.
I will immediately initiate a Change for the Bay program that will finally solve this crisis by creating a stormwater management utility that will cost most households less than $5 per month, loose change relatively speaking. I know from successes in other regions that residents will support the program when they feel engaged in the process and that people will feel proud of the tangible results when goals are achieved through community effort.
Our few remaining natural areas are at risk from irresponsible development and lax enforcement of critical area laws. There has been a weakening of adequate facilities laws requiring developers to expand school capacity, public safety and other services to support their new development. The county’s giveaways to developers amount to an unsustainable policy that encourages sprawl and degrades our quality of life.
I will enforce both the critical area laws and adequate facilities laws — and I will make polluters pay for the clean-up when they damage Chesapeake Bay.
Anne Arundel County Council, District 1
Daryl Jones (D) incumbent
No Response
John E. Moran IV (R)
No Response
Anne Arundel County Council, District 2
John Grasso (R)
No Response
Dan Klosterman (D)
66-year-old resident of Millersville. Graduate of Brooklyn Park High School and University of Baltimore (degree in accounting). Certified Public Accountant; small business owner of Klosterman & Associates. Former assistant county auditor (1975-’82). Board member and vice president of business & finance, YMCA of Anne Arundel County. 30 years experience on citizen boards, including advising on county spending levels and volunteering for non-profits. Seeking to return to county council after a single term (1998-2002), when he supported the property tax cap and council term limits.
Endorsed by the Teachers Association of Anne Arundel County.
www.danklosterman.com
Anne Arundel County is fortunate to be situated close to the many natural resources that Mother Nature has provided for our personal enjoyment and in many cases our livelihood. We have the magnificent Chesapeake Bay, numerous rivers and access to the Atlantic Ocean. Use of these resources, however, comes with a burden that requires each of us to nurture and safeguard those assets for our children and for future generations of this county.
I am no stranger to the environmental issues that face our county. I served on the County Council from 1998 to 2002 and during that time I either supported or introduced legislation protecting our environment. I introduced a resolution supporting Queen Anne County, asking the state of Maryland and the Port Authority not to dump in the Bay. I supported legislation that strengthened stormwater management standards and stricter laws for building in the Critical Area. I also supported funding for agricultural preservation (buying development rights from large farms), the Magothy Greenway and purchase of property on Jug Bay. In 2002, the Sierra Club endorsed my candidacy because of my voting record on environmental issues.
There is still much to be done if we are to return the Chesapeake Bay to good health.
Older sewer facilities that are continually failing and polluting our streams, our rivers and ultimately the Bay need to be replaced or upgraded to prevent this type of pollution.
We need to develop or strengthen legislation that would control runoff into the Bay. This includes over-development in the critical area, strengthened stormwater management practices and controlling the pesticides and lawn chemicals that end up in the Bay, eventually strangling the ability of vegetation to grow and oyster beds to develop.
Anne Arundel County Council, District 3
Derek Fink (R)
No Response
Charlie Parks (D)
No Response
Anne Arundel County Council, District 4
Jamie Benoit (D)
39-year-old resident of Crownsville, born and raised in the Fourth Council District and educated in Anne Arundel public schools. Degrees from St. Mary’s College, University of Baltimore School of Law and Georgetown University Law School. Former Army officer (1990s) and practicing attorney. Entrepreneur and small business owner, heading Federal Data, an IT company specializing in complex technology and IT security solutions for military organizations. Seeking second term in county council, to which he was elected in 2006 with over 60 percent of the vote.
Endorsed by the Anne Arundel County Fraternal Order of Police; the Teachers Association of Anne Arundel County; the Anne Arundel County Firefighters; Maryland Votes for Animals; Maryland Sierra Club; and Maryland League of Conservation Voters, Anne Arundel Chapter.
www.jamiebenoit.com
As a lifelong resident of the district I represent, I know this community better than anyone else seeking the seat. My lifetime of experience serving the community prior to seeking office demonstrates my commitment to the people who live here. I served with distinction in the United States Army and understand the defense community, which gives me a unique perspective relative to the growth at Ft. Meade and NSA. I am formerly a practicing attorney, which trained me to draft legislation with a careful eye. I own and have owned several businesses, which has given me deep understanding of the struggles employees and business owners face in the current economic climate.
If reelected this fall, I will continue to build upon my record as the Anne Arundel County Council’s leading environmental advocate as well as a champion of our public schools. In my first term, I honored my campaign promise to preserve the Naval Academy Dairy Farm. I also passed into law a number of tax incentives for residents who adopt renewable energy technology such as solar and geothermal. I proposed and fought for comprehensive stormwater legislation to increase the health of the Chesapeake. And in the County Council’s final act, we passed a bill I sponsored that gives purchasers of LEED-certified homes a $3,000 tax credit.
I will build upon that legacy in my second and final term. I have no doubt that if the residents of West County elect me to a final term in office, I will finish my tenure on the Council with the most comprehensive pro-environment record of any member ever to serve in our county government.
Charlotte K. Weinstein (R)
44-year-old resident of Millersville. Degrees from University of Baltimore (J.D. and Jurisprudence); George Washington University (M.A. in Criminal Law). In private practice of family law. Former assistant state’s attorney for domestic relations. Member of Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys’ Association. Holds Certificate of Appreciation from YWCA Domestic Violence Services. Won her Primary race with 56 percent of the vote.
Annapolis has been voted among the top-10 most picturesque cities in the U.S.A. by several travel magazines, yet many of our residents are continuing to pollute the Bay. This is being done by flushing our toilets via pipes running directly into storm drains, along with gray water from dish and clothes washers flowing directly and blatantly down gutters into storm drains.
I have been approached by several concerned residents who have called the health department many times over the last four years to report these violations. Since the gray water and toilet flushing into the storm drains has continued, it’s obvious nothing is being done.
How often have our residents hesitated to allow their children to swim or engage in water sports on our rivers because of the fear of bacteria levels? We are so fortunate to have such a precious gift of the Chesapeake and its tributaries, yet we not only take it for granted but also destroy it for selfish reasons: Let’s save a few dollars by not using our septic system, or Let’s vote against city sewage.
I would suggest heavy fines for those who knowingly destroy the purity of our Bay and rivers.
A volunteer task force of concerned citizens could be used to investigate complaints and also to check for gray waters in communities that are on septic. The only cost to the county would be phone service.
I would also try to get a program into our school system teaching the children to value our Bay and also to understand how wrong it is to see adults doing things that pollute our waters.
I suggest this as the non-smoking teachings have done a great deal of good with children now putting pressure on their parents to quit using cigarettes. Why not use young minds to take this environmental issue to the same level as smoking?
Anne Arundel County Council, District 5
Dick Ladd (R)
70-year-old longtime resident of Broadneck and Anne Arundel’s Fifth District. Degrees from Bowdoin College (A.B. Mathematics); Tulane University (M.B.A.); U.S. Air Force Command & Staff College. Served 20 years in the Army as Vietnam-era helicopter pilot and Deputy Undersecretary of the U.S. Army; awarded four Bronze Stars and 16 Air Medals. Founded defense consulting company; taught college- level business management. Member of Army Science Board. Hospice of the Chesapeake volunteer, two-term president of Hospice Cup; Guardian of the River, 2007.
www.electdickladd.com
Anne Arundel County has a large, unfunded backlog of construction and maintenance requirements already identified. Meeting these needs plus new school, environmental protections and transportation improvements are all based on a healthy budget. The Number One priority for the next council and county executive will be to get the county’s financial house in order — without tax increases.
With respect to District 5, we must stop or otherwise address the county sewage leaks that are polluting our streams, rivers and Bay. To the extent possible, I would place additional funding priority on stormwater runoff management. I would also look for additional ways to make it easier (less onerous) for property owners to do what is right for the Bay, their property and homes.
Paul G. Rudolph (D)
74-year-old resident of Severna Park. Degrees in electrical engineering and physical oceanography. Retired Westinghouse engineer. 10-year member Anne Arundel County Board of Education. In 2006, ran unsuccessfully to represent 33A in the House of Delegates. Says his current job is “keeping myself informed.”
Improving the quality of life and maintaining it for our children is my primary issue. I will clean up the Bay, control sprawl, alleviate congestion, keep the state green and increase open spaces with public access. I will mitigate the cost of electric power, provide affordable health care, provide opportunities for people to lift themselves out of poverty, provide a quality and balanced education for all students.
Anne Arundel County Council, District 6
Doug Burkhardt (R)
No Response
Chris D. Trumbauer (D)
35-year-old Annapolitan resident of Tyler Heights, backpacker, nature-lover and family man; lifelong Marylander. Executive director of West/Rhode Riverkeeper; defeated appointed incumbent Chuck Ferrar in first run for elected office “to end business as usual on the County Council.” Graduate University of Maryland (chemistry) and Leadership Anne Arundel; former vice president of South River Federation; chair, Annapolis Mayor Cohen’s Environmental Transition Team; former DNR biologist.
Endorsed by the Teachers Association of Anne Arundel County, NARAL Pro-Choice Maryland, Maryland Voters for Animals; the former councilman to whose seat he aspires, now Annapolis Mayor Josh Cohen; Progressive Maryland; Maryland Sierra Club and Maryland League of Conservation Voters, Anne Arundel Chapter.
www.christrumbauer.com
The Chesapeake is an important driver of our local economy and is a critical component of our quality of life. To bring back a healthy, safe and clean Bay, we must reduce the amount of pollution entering our waterways. To help achieve this, I propose to:
1. Follow smart, strategic land-use policy to focus growth where we have existing infrastructure and away from our environmentally sensitive areas. We must make sure developers pay their fair share of the cost of development, and we must protect the character of our communities. Better transportation options (bike/pedestrian and mass transit) would also help connect our communities and get cars off the road.
2. Institute a stormwater utility to fund stormwater management restoration projects. Stormwater pollution, the chief pollution source in our area, is responsible for much of the harmful bacteria in our rivers. Restoration projects provide local design, engineering and construction jobs and would reduce stormwater pollution right here in our communities.
Other ideas include strengthening enforcement of our existing environmental laws to deter illegal behavior that impacts the health of our waters; and investing in our sewer infrastructure to prevent leaks and overflows.
Anne Arundel County Council, District 7
Torrey Jacobsen (D)
51-year-old resident of Gambrills. Business degree from Dominican College. Small businessman: 20-year owner of Jacobsen Insurance Agency. Community activist with a record of energizing communities for smart land use and development as private citizen and as executive director of the Joint Labor Management Fund. Local community campaigns include building of Crofton Library and Crofton Meadows Playground and Gambrills’ Nantucket Elementary; significant renovations or expansions at Anrundel High School, Crofton Elementary and Crofton Middle schools; stopping construction of a Wal-Mart on Rt. 3 in Crofton.
Endorsed by Anne Arundel County Firefighters; Anne Arundel County Public Employees Union; Baltimore Council, AFL-CIO; Progressive Maryland; Maryland Chapter, Sierra Club; and Maryland League of Conservation Voters.
www.torreyjacobsen.com
In District 7, as in most of the county, we have old infrastructure or none, and we have new development that tries to blend in. Any old stormwater management systems in the communities need to be fixed so that the damage to the Bay is reversed. These communities are located throughout the entire district and are not in any one place. We need to continue to push for the best new stormwater management for all new development and revitalize the old with new ideas.
I have pledged that you will have a say in all zoning matters down the street from your houses. I pledge that with me as county councilman, the citizens will be in charge — not the developer. The first thing the new council will do is a complete rezoning of the county. So protect your rights as a voter and support me as I will support you. Nobody will work as hard for you as I will.
In our county there are few places to get on the Bay through a county-run public outlet. We have miles of waterfront land and few places to launch kayaks and boats. We need to fix this issue with help from private/public agencies. The more people who use the Bay, the higher the respect it will get from the citizens at large and the better respect the Bay will get from all.
Jerry Walker (R)
No Response
Maryland State Senate, District 30
Anne Arundel County, Shady Side to Annapolis. Voters elect one.
John C. Astle (D) incumbent
67-year-old Annapolitan. Degree from Marshall University. Retired Medivac helicopter pilot. U.S. Marine Corps, 1966-’75; helicopter pilot, flying combat in Vietnam and for the president. Awarded the Legion of Merit, two Purple Hearts, the Meritorious Service Medal, 31 Air Medals and the Presidential Service Badge. Served in the Marine Corps Reserves for 21 years, including active duty in the Persian Gulf; retired after 21 years in 1996. Member, Marine Corps Association; American Legion; Veterans of Foreign Wars; Disabled American Veterans; National Rifle Association; Safari Club International Member of the Maryland Tourism Development Board and an active member of the Maryland Military Installation Council.
Seeking fifth term in the Maryland Senate, where he is a member of the Maryland Veterans Caucus and Maryland Military Installation Council as well as chair of Anne Arundel’s Senate delegation and vice-chair of the powerful Finance Committee.
Endorsed by the Maryland and District of Columbia Credit Union Association and Maryland League of Conservation Voters.
www.johnastle.com.
I am proud of my support for the Capital City Safe Streets Program, a partnership program between local, state and federal agencies to better cooperate and coordinate law enforcement efforts. Capital City Safe Streets has improved quality of life in our communities by drastically lowering crime and violent crime: 32 percent in its first year. I’m proud to have worked with Speaker Mike Busch to provide support for this important priority, and I will work to continue it and similar law enforcement programs in the future.
The Chesapeake is Maryland’s greatest natural resource. As a trustee of the Chesapeake Bay Trust, I strongly support efforts to reduce nutrient runoff, improve stormwater management and restore the native oyster population. Although there are no easy answers to improving the health of Chesapeake Bay, I believe there are positive steps that we can take every day. I am a strong supporter of oyster restoration — a single oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water in a day — and have supported funding to promote restoration efforts. I also support tough enforcement of oyster sanctuary laws. Illegal poaching on oyster sanctuaries undermines critical efforts to restore natural Bay ecosystems.
Ron Elfenbein (R)
36-year-old Annapolitan. Emergency room physician at St. Mary’s Hospital, Leonardtown. Degrees from The Johns Hopkins Hospital Residency Training Program, SUNY College of Medicine, Cornell University. NASA Aerospace Medicine Clerkship at Johnson Space Center. Former sailing instructor and captain. Founding member of the Red Cross, Anne Arundel Chapter and chair of Blood Drive Committee. Baltimore Ravens physician and member, U.S. Secret Service Emergency Services Response Team.
Making second run for elected office after failed race for House of Delegates, District 30, in 2006. Campaign appearances include free blood pressure screenings at Annapolis-area grocery stores. Endorsed by Anne Arundel County Professional Fire Fighter’s Local 1563 and former governor and current candidate Bob Ehrlich.
www.electronelfenbein.com
We must create jobs by lowering taxes for all, repealing the recent largest tax increase in history and cutting spending. We must protect education, emergency services and promised obligations budgets while reducing spending to 2008 levels. Most other departments must make do with less.
We should tap into the largest natural gas reserve in the country, just beneath us, in an environmentally friendly way without using unnecessary and detrimental hydro-fracturing techniques. This will create thousands of high-paying jobs, generate hundreds of millions of tax dollars and provide an environmentally friendly energy source that can also be utilized for transportation.
Stormwater runoff needs to be managed, as it kills everything the Bay needs to thrive and silts in our waterways. Coastal plains outfalls — meandering streams that run stormwater through a series of stepped pools and winding paths — are an ingenious, cost-effective and even picturesque way to do this, We need to provide tax credits to older communities to upgrade to these. We should form public-private partnerships by seeking grant money from Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Sierra Club, etc. to pay for this. New development should be required to put these in. Similarly, we need to encourage expansion of existing public-private partnerships that further water-column aquaculture oyster growing. We need to restore the oyster population.
Maryland House of Delegates, District 30
Anne Arundel County, Shady Side to Annapolis. Voters elect three.
Michael E. Busch (D) incumbent
63-year-old Annapolitan. Elected to House of Delegate in 1986 and as Speaker of the House in 2003. Graduated from St. Mary’s High School — where he later taught and coached — and Temple University (B.S. in history). High school and college football player recruited for NFL until an injury ended his career. Remains active in youth and community athletics; day job is assistant to the director at Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation and Parks.
Ranked 100 percent on Maryland Humane Scorecard. Endorsed by Clean Water Action, Maryland Farm Bureau League, Maryland Chapter of the Sierra Club and Maryland League of Conservation Voters, which honored him as its environmentalist of 2010. “Speaker Busch’s many accomplishments include protection of our waterways, oyster restoration, protection of critical areas and allowing citizens the ability to have their voices heard through changes in Environmental Standing Laws,” said Fred Hoover, chairman of the Board of the Maryland League of Conservation Voters, in making the award. “He is willing to tackle complex budget issues that benefit all of us, and through his efforts Maryland has become a national leader in the fight against climate change and air pollution.”
www.speakerbusch.com
As speaker of the House, I have made improving the health of the Bay — Maryland’s crown jewel — one of my top priorities. From advocating for a healthy oyster restoration program to fighting for increased funding for the Chesapeake Bay Trust Fund, a healthy environment is one of the best gifts we can give future generations. In fact, I was just recently awarded the John V. Kabler Memorial Award by the League of Conservation Voters because of my continued work for conservation and a clean environment.
During this next term, I will continue to be a strong voice for the improved health of the Bay, funding oyster-restoration and cover-crop programs; encouraging environmentally friendly practices for new building across Maryland; and cracking down on polluters to fully restore the Bay to its majesty. I am encouraged that Maryland is moving in the right direction as the steward of Chesapeake Bay and that we are getting help from our sister states on ensuring the future of the Bay.
Virginia P. Clagett (D) incumbent
67-year-old resident of West River. Graduate of Smith College. Lawmaker for 36 years: Anne Arundel County councilwoman for five terms and delegate since 1995, serving on Environmental Matters Committee. Supporter of land and water stewardship, protector of farmland, instrumental in creating Jug Bay Wildlife Sanctuary.
100+ voter on Maryland Humane Scorecard. Endorsed by Clean Water Action, Maryland Farm Bureau, Maryland State Education Association and AFL-CIO; NARAL Pro-Choice Maryland; Equality Maryland; Maryland Chapter of the Sierra Club; Maryland League of Conservation Voters.
www.virginiaclagett.com
As a county councilwoman and state delegate, I have always believed that to save our wonderful life in Anne Arundel County and protect the Bay, we must first protect the land around our waterways. I, therefore, will continue my long history of supporting land-use policies such as Critical Areas legislation, as well as wise land-use acquisition through fully funding the Open Space, Rural Legacy and Agricultural Land Preservation programs.
At the same time, we must include our neighbors, Virginia and Pennsylvania, whose actions equally affect the water quality of our areas. I am glad to be a commissioner on the Chesapeake Bay Commission, where we work together to solve the region’s environmental problems. We are now working to achieve pollution reduction by implementing the EPA’s strict water-quality rules. This is a challenge that must be met by all states and counties with determination and cooperation. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to work with all of my constituents toward these and other goals.
The ability to work together with civility is the answer to our future.
Ron George (R) incumbent
No Response
Seth Howard (R)
No Response
Judd Legum (D)
31-year-old Annapolitan lawyer, in private practice. Chaired the Market House and City Dock committees for Mayor Josh Cohen’s transition team. Represents the city on the Severn River Commission. Former research director for Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign and the Center for American Progress. Degrees from Pomona College (in public policy analysis) and Georgetown University Law Center.
In first campaign for elected office, won endorsements from Maryland AFL-CIO, SEIU, Clean Water Action, Maryland Votes for Animals, Maryland Chapter of the Sierra Club and Maryland League of Conservation Voters.
www.juddlegum.com
The 25-year, multi-billion-dollar effort to restore the Bay has been a failure. If we don’t act quickly, we face an economic and environmental disaster. I will work to tighten pollution limits — then enforce those limits — establishing tough penalties for those who break the law.
Two specific ideas I support to help clean up the Bay:
1. Power plants fueled by chicken litter. Agriculture remains the top source of nutrient pollution in the Bay. Poultry waste, in particular, pollutes our waterways and has caused fish kills. A bio-fuel powerplant on the Eastern Shore could turn chicken litter into green energy.
2. Eliminating taxpayer subsidies to polluters. Maryland produces 60 percent of its energy from coal, which pollutes our air and water. Yet, thanks to special-interest lobbyists, Maryland taxpayers still spend millions each year subsidizing coal. I’ll fight to put an end to these subsidies and invest in renewable energy sources.
I believe special interests are standing in the way of the progress we need to make cleaning up the Bay. That’s why I’m the only candidate for state delegate not accepting any campaign contributions from state lobbyists or political action committees.
Herb McMillan (R)
52-year-old Annapolitan. Naval Academy graduate, former director of admissions for the Western U.S. and leadership instructor at the Academy (until 1991). 26-year Navy/Navy Reserve veteran. PTA president, middle school tutor, youth football coach; member of the South River Federation. Works as B-737 captain for American Airlines and president of the Maryland Taxpayers Association.
Elected to Annapolis City Council in 1997; ran unsuccessfully for Annapolis mayor in 2001. Elected to House of Delegates in 2002; ran unsuccessfully for State Senate in District 30 in 2006.
Endorsed by the National Federation of Independent Business and former governor and current candidate Bob Ehrlich.
www.herbmcmillan.com
To improve our quality of life and return the Bay to good health we must:
1. Establish regional/national pollution standards. Maryland shares the Bay and air with other states. The Bay’s health won’t improve if we pollute less and they pollute more. Going it alone is not an option. We must establish a regional compact with stronger air- and water-pollution standards to return the Bay to good health.
2. Establish measurable, attainable goals and take a scientific approach to cleaning the Bay and our air. Legislation that calls for an unattainable improvement in Bay quality 20 years after passage simply allows politicians to look like they’re environmentalists while they dodge accountability. That’s why after 40 years and billions of dollars, the Bay is still in bad shape. Legislation must require annual measurements of progress.
Additionally, we need to focus our resources toward reducing the biggest sources of nitrogen pollution first, so that we get a bigger, quicker, bang for our buck. Curtailing nitrogen runoff from farms is critical.
I’m proud to have voted for the Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund and the Healthy Air Act, but we must do more. Working together we will return our Bay to good health.
Maryland State Senate, District 31
Anne Arundel County north. Voters elect one.
Edward P. ‘Ned’ Carey (D)
Lifelong resident of Brooklyn Park, living in the Fifth Avenue house where he was born. Degree in urban planning from the University of Maryland. Former two-term president, Anne Arundel County School Board; also serves on the boards of the Maryland Association of Boards of Education, Chesapeake Arts Center and Harbor Hospital. Works at BWI-Thurgood Marshall Airport as the deputy executive director of the Maryland Aviation Administration.
www.ned2010.com
Improving quality of life starts with maintaining the quality of our state education system. A good education is a paramount building block to success in life. As a state senator, I’ll make an unfailing commitment to concentrate state funds in the classroom with the students and in effective programs that ensure student success. I’ll work to ensure that teachers have the tools necessary to clearly put forward the lessons that they have to teach our children. I’ll also advocate for environmental education programs to show our young people the necessity of the responsible stewardship of our natural resources.
In addition to working to maintain and enhance our education system, I’ll work to protect the health of our environment. I plan to search out innovative and effective ideas to solve our most pressing environmental problems including the reduction of stormwater runoff. I’ll promote programs like treating and containing highway stormwater runoff at or near the road surface. This process prevents pollution from ever reaching nearby rivers and most importantly Chesapeake Bay. I’ll also work to ensure that critical infrastructure improvements including wastewater treatment programs and watershed and estuary management programs, are implemented. As a state we have no choice but to increase our emphasis on the preservation of our environment, and as a state senator, I’ll make it a top priority.
Bryan W. Simonaire (R) incumbent
No Response
Maryland House of Delegates, District 31
Voters choose three. As well as the three Republican and three Democratic winners of the September Primary, also on the ballot are Constitution candidate Cory Fause Sr. and Libertarian Joshua Matthew Crandall.
Jeremiah Chiappelli (D)
32 years old; raised in Maryland, graduated Chesapeake High School and living in Pasadena. Eagle Scout. Degrees from Saint Mary’s College of Maryland (political science and theater arts); and the University of Maryland School of Law. Former Hollywood extra and Congressional intern with Wayne Gilchrest. Lawyer and principal of Chiappelli Law Firm, focusing on legal problems that affect “the average person.” Environmentalist, small business owner and volunteer.
www.votechiappelli.fatcow.com
Two specific ideas which I would like to bring before the General Assembly and which I believe will help improve the quality of life for my constituents:
Pass the legislation necessary to allow residents to install clean power on their properties and sell the excess power back to the grid. We are already in the process of doing this, and many parts of the legislation are already in place. When we get it right, green power will boom in Maryland. Because if there is money to be made, I trust that the people will get on board, regardless of ideology. And a decentralized energy grid has the added bonus of making us safer and creating more jobs.
Deregulate the cemetery business to reduce the entry costs for new cemeteries and, hopefully, stimulate more green funerals and create an industry that would profit by preserving open spaces.
Don Dwyer Jr. (R) incumbent
52-year-old resident of Glen Burnie; graduate of Glen Burnie High School. Delegate since 2003, seeking third term. Executive Director, Institute on the Constitution. Director, American College for Cultural Studies. Extreme social conservative dedicated to narrowly defining marriage in law or by Constitutional amendment.
Gun Owners of America 2006 Legislator of the Year. Endorsed by the National Federation of Independent Business and Maryland Right to Life.
delegatedwyer.com.
For the past several years, I have been working to reveal the real problems with our rivers, creeks and, naturally, Chesapeake Bay. I cannot begin to express my frustration as I investigated three creeks in my legislative district that have been closed to public use over 30 years. Marley, Furnace and Rock creeks have been closed while the local and state authorities cite impervious runoff along with dog and cat manure as the source of the pollution.
The fecal bacteria that plagues these creeks was at one time determined to be coming from failing septic systems. Twenty-eight years ago, those areas were converted to public water and sewer. Yet today creeks remain closed due to the same bacteria.
I will work to impose strict regulations on wastewater pumping stations and treatment plants within Anne Arundel. There are too many sewage overflows in the county.
Secondly, I will work to see that statistical and real-time monitoring is implemented whenever and where ever there is a sewage overflow in Anne Arundel County. The high volume of overflows in Anne Arundel County is simply unacceptable. We must get serious about cleaning our waterways.
Robert L. Eckert (D)
No Response
Nicholaus ‘Nic’ R. Kipke (R) incumbent
31-year old, lifelong resident of Anne Arundel County; elected in 2006 as Maryland’s only current delegate living in Pasadena. Advocate for families of children with special needs; supported creation of the Maryland Commission on Autism. Fiscally conservative; environmentally conscious; chaired Anne Arundel County Workgroup on Clean & Healthy Creeks
Managing partner of an independent factory-representative firm. Endorsed by the National Rifle Association and the Maryland Farm Bureau, State Education Association, National Federation of Independent Business and Right to Life.
www.kipke.com.
Maryland’s best opportunity to have a meaningful impact on the restoration of our Bay is the continued support of the Bay Restoration Fund that is rebuilding our sewage and wastewater infrastructure.
Anne Arundel’s largest sewage treatment plant, located on Ft. Smallwood Road, is undergoing a complete rebuild that will make it the most environmentally advanced in our country. This $150 million investment will reduce the amount of nitrogen and phosphorus that is destroying our Bay. The other major opportunity to protect our Bay is with expanded investment in stormwater management. I will continue to support stormwater management capital projects.
Steve Schuh (R) incumbent
No Response
Justin M. Towles (D)
No Response
Maryland State Senate, District 32
Voters elect one.
Larry Barber (R)
53-year-old resident of Severn. Retired from U.S. Army Signal Corps after 21 years. Six years handling real-world communications in service of U.S.AID. Current security escort at National Security Agency. Member and former county commander of American Legion. Herald Harbor Fire Department administrative member. Making first run for political office to improve treatment of veterans in the Maryland General Assembly. Ran unopposed in the September Primary. Endorsed by Bob Ehrlich.
www.barberlistens.com
Reduce pollution to streams and other waterways by installing riparian buffers. This is the planting of trees along waterways. Having more trees is always good, and this solution deals with two problems with one solution.
The second idea is to reduce pollution from stormwater runoff and from existing wastewater treatment plants. I have read that 14 wastewater treatment plants have been upgraded, but that 53 more, statewide, have not. This should be a priority to continue the upgrades on the remaining 53 treatment plants. Improvements to stormwater runoff systems should also be made a priority.
Both these areas have been addressed, and it has been suggested that fees be raised to pay for these improvements and upgrades. I dislike the idea of increasing fees simply to fund a project. I have learned where county- and state-funded programs receive funds only to have them diverted to general funds. If fees to constituents are to be raised, it must be stated without question that those fees will only be used for the intended project in addition to other funding already in place.
These are areas I would make priorities. Then we can also work on land development projects, making efforts to reduce future pollution and also agricultural runoff.
James Ed DeGrange (D) incumbent
No Response
Maryland House of Delegates, District 32
Anne Arundel County north. Voters elect three.
Pamela Beidle (D) incumbent
Lifelong resident of Anne Arundel County living in Linthicum. Degrees from Anne Arundel Community College and Towson State University. Small businesswoman: president of Beidle Insurance; director, Arundel Federal Savings and Loan. Served two terms on Anne Arundel County Council, supporting legislation to build and improve North County schools and revitalize communities. Elected in 2006 to Maryland House of Delegates, where she is a member of the Environmental Matters Committee and seeks a second term.
Endorsed by Maryland League of Conservation Voters.
www.pambeidle.com
The two areas of greatest concern for me that affect Chesapeake Bay are the raw sewage that continues to be dumped into the Bay by public sewage plants and continued stormwater run off from older stormwater devices.
I think that all jurisdictions that are part of Chesapeake Bay should be required to update their sewage treatment plants. The flush tax has funded some of these upgrades. However the issue also includes the states of Pennsylvania and Virginia. Maryland State has legislated that private septic systems in critical areas be upgraded and provided funding.
My second concern is stormwater runoff. Counties and municipalities need help improving their older, less effective stormwater devices. Federal funds should be available for these projects with stimulus money.
Stephanie A. Hodges (R)
No Response
Mary Ann Love (D) incumbent
70-year-old resident of Glen Burnie. Board member, North Arundel Hospital, Hospice of the Chesapeake, Partners in Care, Providence Center. After a career in county government, appointed to the Maryland House of Delegates in 1993; elected in 1998 and every four years thereafter; now seeking fifth term. Chair of Anne Arundel Delegation and member Economic Matters Committee. Endorsed by Maryland League of Conservation Voters
www.mdarchives.state.md.us
Education is an important key to improving the quality of life of our constituents and Chesapeake Bay. The state of Maryland is fortunate to have easy access to the Bay and all the recreational activities it offers. Crabs, oysters and a variety of fish can be fresh to our dinner tables. The marshes surrounding our waters provide a habitat to both birds and animals.
While as citizens we can enjoy the Bay, we must always be vigilant to ensure that we continue to move forward to safeguard and improve the delicate balance between man and nature. By educating all those who live, work and just enjoy this world-renowned body of water on how to accomplish this task, we are improving the quality of life for all Marylanders.
Wayne Smith (R)
No Response
Theodore Sophocleus (D) incumbent
71-year-old lifelong Marylander living in Linthicum. University of Maryland graduate. Retired pharmacist and pharmacy owner. Appointed to the Maryland House of Delegates in 1993; elected in 1998 and every four years thereafter; now seeking fifth term. Endorsed by Maryland League of Conservation Voters
Two ideas for improving the quality of life of constituents and returning Chesapeake Bay to good health:
l. Top Priority: Proper utilization of funding (budget) and increase that funding as best we can for the health of Bay.
2. Work with counties for the prevention of septic unit spills and assist to relieve homeowners regarding nitrogen-removal cost.
In addition, review current laws and making adjustments necessary regarding Critical Areas.
David P. Starr (R)
30-year-old, lifelong Anne Arundel Countian living in Linthicum. Degrees from Anne Arundel Community College and University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Experienced worker in small and large business, as sales associate, maintenance technician and mechanical engineer. Mechanical engineer at Kop-Flex (a division of Emerson Electric) in Hanover. Making his second run for the House of Delgates after winning the primary, but not the general, in 2002.
www.electstarr.com
I will fight to lower taxes, produce a sustainable state budget, cut the continued wasteful spending, protect our individual rights, and protect our Chesapeake Bay. I will fight to repeal the increased $1.3 billion tax increases instituted by our current delegates to help put more money back into your wallet. Our state spending is out of control and is unsustainable. Our current delegates balanced previous budgets using billions of dollars in federal stimulus money that we will no longer receive. We must prepare for the future and create a sustainable budget that allows us to prepare for many upgrades to the state’s infrastructure and the clean-up and preservation of Chesapeake Bay.
I will pursue innovative, cost-effective, non-partisan solutions to clean and restore Chesapeake Bay. Our delegates have allowed the continued destruction of the Bay. I will fight for upgrades to sewage treatment plants, I will demand the enforcement of laws on nitrogen pollution, and I will work for more stormwater runoff regulations. I learned firsthand what the bacteria Vibrio will do to a man’s body when my father-in-law, a Maryland waterman, became infected this summer. I will fight to clean up and restore our Chesapeake Bay.
Maryland Senate, District 33
Republican Reilly runs unopposed. There is no Democrat on the ballot.
Edward R. Reilly (R) incumbent
Unopposed
Maryland House of Delegates, District 33A
Anne Arundel County west. Voters elect two.
Madonna Brennan (D)
Resident of Maryland for four decades and Gambrills since 2001. Graduate of the University of Maryland in Paralegal Studies. Neighborhood and community activist, helping Crofton turn away Walmart, raising awareness of the dangers of fly ash, making safe passage for pedestrians and fighting crime. Her career has been in labor, and she is now administrator of benefits for the Laborers’ International Union of North America.
Endorsed by Maryland State and District of Columbia AFL-CIO; Progressive Maryland; Maryland Chapter of the Sierra Club and Maryland League of Conservation Voters.
www.madonnabrennan.com
I have tried to be a voice for my community, and if elected will continue to do so.
Since a large number of my constituents live in or around the Route 3 corridor, I make a pledge to see that Maryland Department of the Environment finalizes and issues appropriate regulations for the beneficial uses of fly ash. The private wells of many in Gambrills have been permanently damaged by a substance that had previously been considered safe. Recent events continue to prove this false, and with the EPA moving forward so should Maryland. I will press MDE and our federal legislators to ensure that protections and regulations are finally in place.
As a legislator, one of my goals will be to work proactively to limit the possibility of further catastrophic sewage leaks into Chesapeake Bay and its rivers and streams. This will include both commercial and private systems. Aging and deteriorating systems need to be upgrades or replaced. Personal septic systems need to be moved to public sewer faster. This will require more assistance; in some cases community grants could be used as a means to speed up this process.
I ask for your vote on November 2.
Tony McConkey (R) incumbent
No Response
Cathy Vitale (R)
46-year-old Severna Park resident; degrees from University of Maryland (BA in government and politics) and University of Baltimore (JD). Senior member of law firm Henault & Sysko, Chartered. Ending a unique third term as councilwoman for 5th District, having won election twice (in 2006 with 75 percent of the vote) and appointment once. Won a five-way Republican primary with 31 percent of the vote. Honored with Fannie Lou Hammer Humanitarian Award for contributions to the advancement of women. Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Commissioner. Elected vice chair, Anne Arundel County Republican State Central Committee; chair, AA County Republican Party; secretary, Maryland Republican Party. Endorsed by the Maryland Farm Bureau.
I believe that quality of life comes from a combination of good schools, safe communities and a good economic environment. As a teen, growing up on the Magothy River was one of the special benefits of living in Anne Arundel County. Today, our children find themselves staying away from the waterways for fear they will catch an infection. What a sad state of affairs when we have to tell our children that they cannot swim or play in the waters.
My two ideas are:
1. I will seek to introduce legislation that will broaden the use of septic upgrade funds to permit entire communities, not just individual property owners, to convert from septic systems to public utilities. If we can address communities as a whole, rather than individual properties, we will see a greater benefit.
2. As a member of the Critical Area Commission I have spent more than five years working on regulations to address waterfront development. I believe that a clear understanding of what is permitted, along with education of property owners, will allow for less violations and greater adherence. As I have said before, I believe that most property owners want to be good stewards; they just need to understand what and how to do it. A perfect example is the Winchester on the Severn project that was just completed by the community. The rain garden, with rocks stair-stepping runoff, will offer a filtration system that will aid in sediment removal and will have an immediate and positive reaction in the Severn River.
Maryland House of Delegates, District 33B
Anne Arundel County south. Republican Costa runs unopposed.
Bob Costa (R) incumbent
Unopposed
Calvert County Board of Commissioners
The top vote-getters don’t always win election to Calvert’s Board of Commissioners, which is both legislative and executive for the county. That’s because three candidates win by geography and two more by plurality.
No matter how the vote falls, one commissioner must be elected from each of the county’s three districts: District 1 in the south, District 2 in the middle, and District 3 in the north. Satisfying this requirement can mean that higher voter-getters are swept aside.
Two more commissioners are elected based solely on their high vote totals.
Voters pick five — or not. Limiting your vote to candidates you especially favor means fewer votes for their competitors.
Calvert County Board of Commissioners, District 1
Gerald W. ‘Jerry’ Clark (R)
57-year-old resident of Lusby. County Commissioner since 2002; since 2006, vice president of the Board of County Commissioners, where he is seeking a third term. Businessman with over 30 years experience in a variety of commercial endeavors, including real estate and retail. Owner of Port of Call Wine and Spirits in Solomons, Jerry’s of Solomons and Duke Street L.L.C. Board member of Calvert Marine Museum and the Tri-County Council of Southern Maryland.
www.clarkforcalvert.com
Pertaining to improving the quality of life, my idea has never changed: to competently fund the education system and the public safety and public works departments of Calvert County without increasing the tax burden on the citizens.
As to the health of Chesapeake Bay, Calvert County has recently adopted the stringent stormwater management regulations mandated by the state along with our dedicated participation in the grant process with the state to install nitrogen-removal septic systems in as many homes within the critical area as possible. One of the other things that we need to look into is regulating the types of fertilizers that are used on household lawns to help mitigate nitrogen that is released into the waterways. We also need to continue with a strong program urging recreational boaters to use septic pump-outs provided in various locations up and down the Bay.
V. Charles Donnelly (Independent)
67-year-old resident of Solomons. Degrees from Frostburg University, University of Maryland and University of Maryland School of Law. Works as an attorney in private practice. Former attorney to the Calvert County Board of Appeals and as second counsel for the Calvert County Planning Commission. Also former teacher and assistant counsel to the House Ways and Means and Senate Budget and Taxation committees. Interned in both the Maryland General Assembly and U.S. Congress. Former College Park City Councilman. Running as an independent because, he says, “the people’s interests and common-sense practical solutions to our problems ought to take precedence over political parties and ideologies.”
www.checkyesforcharlie.com
Two key components to returning the Bay to good health are improving water quality and preserving habitat. On the larger level, we need regional cooperation plans with common-sense, practical solutions developed by a real partnership of state and county governments, Bay organizations, watermen and private citizens. In particular, the waterman’s voice on the issues should be the starting point for planning. Scientists and watermen must be the keys in the partnership to save the Bay, not government bureaucrats. Watermen bring to the table practical day-to-day observations about the Bay, plus a wealth of stored historical data and information about Bay changes, its habitat and its inhabitants.
What can individuals do who live on or near the water? A couple of suggestions:
1. Waterfront lot owners should be offered, on a voluntary basis, a free Health of the Bay Checkup for their property with suggestions for voluntarily actions that could be taken to restore portions of clear-cut or lawn area to native shoreline to improve wildlife habitat and reduce harmful lawn fertilizers and other pollutants from flowing directly into the water.
2. Support the Marylanders Grow Oysters programs, such as Southern Maryland Oyster Cultivation Society (www.smocs.org.) that gets waterfront owners to raise young oysters that are then returned to native reef habitats in the Bay and its tributaries. The oyster once kept Bay waters at a high quality. With our individual help, maybe the oyster in greater numbers can do it again.
Kimberly Mackall (D)
38-year-old raised and living in Lusby after returning to Calvert in 2004. Graduate of Calvert High School and Morgan State University (marketing). Former traveling catastrophe supervisor for Farmers Insurance. Now works as both supervisor with Chubb & Son Insurance Company, Baltimore and minister at Calvert’s Greater Mount Zion Church. Commissioner, Calvert County Housing Authority; board member, Concerned Black Women of Calvert County.
First African Amercian woman to run for Calvert County commissioner. Second-highest Democratic vote-getter in her first race for political office, the September primary, where she would have won with any number of votes as the Democrats’ only candidate in District 1. Endorsed by AFL-CIO Tri-County Committee on Political Education; Calvert Education Association; Calvert Association of Educational Support Staff; The Calvert County Recorder.
www.kimberlymackall.com
We can improve the quality of life for constituents by diversifying our local economy, empowering our small businesses by being friendlier and focusing on controlled growth in the town centers. Small businesses employ our youth, give to nonprofits and provide a tax base to the county. When businesses do well, families are doing well.
We have put all of our eggs in one basket with Constellation Energy. In addition, the county may have to take on teacher pensions and address the reduction of property taxes. Possible solutions are to implement an aggressive buy-local campaign, focus on tourism, light manufacturing, green technology and possibly attracting federal departments to fill the empty office space. As a result, we will continue to fund our top-rated school system and maintain services.
Controlled growth in our town centers for entry-level professionals, teachers, nurses, officers and families ensures a viable economy as well as an exceptional school system.
As county commissioners, we should work wholeheartedly with our state delegation and our Southern Maryland neighbors to return the Bay to good health. Local government should continue to work with farmers, developers, homeowners and focus on awareness and citizen stewardship.
Calvert County Board of Commissioners, District 2
William J. ‘Bill’ Phalen (D)
No Response
Susan Shaw (R)
62-year-old resident of Huntingtown. Two-term Calvert County Commissioner, seeking third term. Educated (Masters plus) as a clinical social worker/psychotherapist, now volunteering in Critical Incident Stress Management for fire/EMS/police; former small business owner.
www.ImChoosingSusan.com
Businesses of all kinds are struggling due to the economy. Yet many of us no longer know where to shop locally for specific items without driving around or leaving the county. We resort to Internet purchases because it is easy. What if it were easy to log on with a phone or other device and find the item or service you need locally, supporting our local businesses with the same convenience? What if the access address was posted in large letters at every entrance to the county on a Visitor’s Center? www.ShopCalvertFirst.com has been launched.
Secondly, mentoring around a fun, outdoor, environmental project, in a BIG way, involving every school child and as many adults as possible in achieving one BIG project a year. Perhaps a stormwater management project in a public space, as one example, where the new environmental site design techniques can be learned and used to clearly reduce and filter runoff into the Bay. Stormwater management is a huge problem for the Bay and for landowners. The ethic of community responsibility for Bay restoration is learned and children’s lives strengthened through the relationship with their mentors, while Chesapeake Bay benefits.
Steve Weems (R)
39-year-old resident of St. Leonard. Graduate of Calvert High School and Frostburg State University. Member of Calvert County Chamber of Commerce and president of St. Leonard Business Association. General manager of Wemyss Liquors. Third top vote-getter in first run for political office, the September primary.
To improve the quality of life of constituents and return the Chesapeake Bay to good health under the confines of my position as a County Commissioner would encompass:
1. Facilitating pro-business initiatives to expand the tax base to offset declining future revenues from income and property taxes within the context of our current Comprehensive Plan. If elected, I pledge to re-examine our current expenditures through the prism of a small business owner and ask, Do I need this product or service?
2. Continue to apply pressure on our state and federal governments to provide the necessary funds to combat unhealthy environmental practices; dire financial straits in the short-term will stymie these efforts. In the interim, I would seek out local departmental heads to inform me of their needs and concerns as it pertains to conservation and nutrient management plans, the installation of erosion control practices, the improvement of water quality and our nationally recognized land preservation program.
Calvert County Board of Commissioners, District 3
Rich Falcone (Libertarian Party)
42-year-old resident of Chesapeake Beach. Bachelor and Master’s degrees in management. Nearly 20 years in parks and recreation, most for a local government in Virginia. Over five years in private sector property management, which included residential, commercial and non-profit.
As a Libertarian, believes in people’s individual liberty to make their own choices and small, unobtrusive government, free-market capitalism with minimal government intervention. “I am running,” he says, “to give the people an option to vote for a candidate that represents a party of principle.”
With the county and everyone else experiencing a high degree of financial uncertainty, we need to tighten our belt and shoot for zero net government growth in Calvert County in upcoming years. Doing more with less is not a new concept; the private sector has always done this, and the government can, too. I realize there may be situations in which government may have to make additions in one area out of absolute necessity; in those cases we need to make cuts in other areas or departments to offset them. I don’t believe in raising taxes because this punishes the hard workers and shrinks the tax base.
We also have to remember that we are a very small county that is bordered by two precious resources, the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay. Thus, any sudden and drastic changes in zoning and regulations must be thought through thoroughly to prevent further and irreversible harm to these revenue generators and precious resources.
Kelly D. McConkey (D)
42-year-old resident of Dunkirk, where he owns and operates Kelly’s Nursery. Small business owner for 26 years. Member of Dunkirk Area Concerned Citizens Association, Owings Area Community Association and Maryland Farmers Association. Attended Charles County Community College on a baseball scholarship. Fourth highest vote-getter in the September Democratic Primary, his first race for political office.
www.KELLYMCCONKEY.com
I will work closely with former Sen. Bernie Fowler to help clean up the waterways that flow into the Bay. He is an expert whose experience and diligent work with cleaning up the Bay is unsurpassed. I will follow his leadership in his venture of restoring Chesapeake Bay to good health.
I will build a relationship with state and federal environmental groups to ensure that all of Calvert County citizens are represented and their voices heard, making sure that what is happening in their neighborhoods is environmentally safe and that that their way of life is not affected.
Wilson H. Parran (D)
60-year-old Calvert County native, living in Huntingtown. Degrees from Columbia Union College (B.S. in organizational management) and George Washington University (M.S. in information systems); additional training in leadership and managing local government. Former vice president at Bell Atlantic and chief information technology officer for industry, two Maryland state departments and Calvert County. Former member of the Calvert County and Maryland State Boards of Education and president of the Maryland Association of Boards of Education. Vietnam-era veteran, U.S. Air Force.
Works as chief of information technology with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Member and former president of the Maryland Association of Counties. Calvert County Commissioner (president of the Board since 2006) seeking his third term. Highest Democratic vote-getter in the September primary.
www.wilsonhparran.com
As your commissioner, I will continue to make environmentally sound decisions that lead to improvements in Chesapeake Bay and the quality of life for Calvert County residents. I have the experience to make the tough decisions while being mindful of the implications for future generations.
In Calvert County, all streams eventually lead to the Bay. We must continue to install nitrogen-removing septic systems where there is no public sewer and to monitor our tributaries to determine how we can improve the quality of the water headed to the Bay. I support efforts to improve the Bay.
I continue to support our effective local and state land preservation programs. I support enhancing watershed planning to include more environmental education and outreach with emphasis on all age groups. I support the necessary changes to zoning that will protect our environment and strengthen the land preservation program.
In addition, the following are essential to maintaining our quality of life in Calvert County: managing residential growth; funding our school system; developing solutions to our traffic challenges; attracting environment-friendly businesses; finding viable workforce housing solutions; supporting our volunteer fire and rescue and public safety organizations; and being fiscally responsible for your tax dollars.
Evan Slaughenhoupt (R)
57-year-old resident of Dunkirk. Retired from U.S. Air Force and Department of Defense at Fort Meade in 2002; works as an aerospace systems engineer. Degrees from the University of Maryland and National Defense Intelligence College (Masters in Strategic Intelligence). Served on Calvert County Ethics Commission; Dunkirk Area Concerned Citizens Association president since 2006. Top Republican vote-getter in the September Primary. Pronounce his name Slog’-n-hop.
www.evanslaughenhoupt.com
To improve the quality of life for the citizens of Calvert County, I believe that a balanced and healthy local economy produces sufficient tax revenue to fully fund local government including our public schools. Maintaining a proper balance, we will have a civil society, provide local businesses equitable incentives to improve our economy, protect our natural landscape and respect individual property rights. To restore Chesapeake Bay into better health, a most recent report indicates that using blue-green algae grown in a sluiceway has promise to actually clean water. Additionally, oyster restoration appears to be gaining popularity.
Barbara Stinnett (D)
No Response
Maryland State Senate, District 27
Vernon R. Hayes Jr. (R)
No Response
Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr. (D) incumbent
67-year-old native Marylander with business and law degrees from the University of Maryland; family roots in Prince George’s County, at home on the Calvert County shore of the Chesapeake; representing both counties in the Maryland Senate since 1975 after a single term in the House of Delegates. Elected Senate president every year since 1987. Chairman Emeritus, Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee. Member, Maryland War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission.
A powerful politician with keen sense of history, Miller remains omnipresent in his district, which has consistently benefited from his double role as ruler of the senate and hometown politician.
www.senatormikemiller.com
Our past, present and future are linked to the health of Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Our district touches the Potomac River on the west, Chesapeake Bay on the east and is divided by the Patuxent River. We will be judged by the next generation in large part based on our stewardship of our natural resources, which is why I am fighting to restore the Bay and protect our natural resources.
This term, we passed tough new laws curbing nitrogen and phosphorous runoff, we created the Chesapeake Bay 2010 Trust Fund and we cracked down on overdevelopment in our tidal wetlands. We passed new laws giving community groups standing to challenge development projects in environmentally sensitive areas.
This year, we created the Chesapeake Conservation Corps, an AmeriCorps-style service learning program that will create green jobs and pass the torch of environmental stewardship to the next generation.
Moving forward, we must protect the state’s investment in environmental programs that are proven to improve the health of the Bay and its watershed, and we must look for innovative ways to power the research and development projects that will help us identify new ways to protect our natural resources.
Maryland House of Delegates, District 27A
Northwest Calvert but predominantly Prince George’s County. Voters elect two.
Mike Hethmon (R)
No Response
Antoinette ‘Toni’ Jarboe-Duley (R)
No Response
James Proctor (D) incumbent
No Response
Joseph Vallario (D) incumbent
73-year-old resident of a farm in Upper Marlboro. Degrees from Benjamin Franklin University and what is now University of Baltimore School of Law. Elected to the House of Delegates every four years since 1975. Chair, Judiciary Committee for 17 years, scoring the record for the House’s longest serving chairman. Ranked by the Maryland Gazette of Politics and Business in top-20 most influential lawmakers in 2010 Defeated seven challengers in the September primary. Endorsed by Maryland Farm Bureau and the Maryland League of Conservation Voters.
Throughout my service in the General Assembly, I have strived to ensure that Prince George’s and Calvert Counties continue to be vibrant places for Maryland families. I have supported measures ensuring the preservation of Chesapeake Bay and the Patuxent and Potomac rivers. Promoting best practices among Maryland farmers and encouraging conservation and responsible development among Maryland’s residents have been important steps toward the healing of the Bay and our rivers. These tributaries provide recreation and tourist attractions and are the heart of the livelihood of Maryland’s watermen. We must strive to protect these resources for both today and tomorrow’s generations.
I am committed to increasing safety for Maryland’s families, and I have supported legislation addressing domestic violence and making Maryland’s roadways safer. I have sponsored legislation providing firefighters and police officers with the resources they need to ensure the safety of Maryland residents and supported stronger legislation to provide prosecutors with effective tools needed to prosecute gang activities. I have been a staunch proponent of legislation ensuring that Maryland’s public schools remain among the best in the nation and that our children and grandchildren are prepared for the future.
Maryland House of Delegates, District 27B
Calvert County north. Voters elect one.
Mark N. Fisher (R)
Lifelong Marylander living in Owings. Graduate of George Washington University. Entrepreneur and owner of Telecom Capital Group, supporting wireless networks with cell towers. Soccer booster and founder of Gray’s Field Foundation, preserving home field African American Baseball League’s Owings Eagles. In his first run for elected office, the September primary, defeated two competitors.
www.MarkFisherForDelegate.com
Most Marylanders believe our state is heading in the wrong direction. The economic challenges we face will continue to get worse unless we take immediate steps to implement common-sense fiscal, economic and government reforms to turn our economy around. I will promote policies to reduce the out-of-control spending in Annapolis and decrease the excessive tax burden on taxpayers by implementing zero-based budgeting and balancing the state’s budget. I will support policies to reduce the regulatory burden stifling the growth and innovation of Maryland small businesses, and ensure they have an environment that allows them to create the jobs Maryland workers must have to meet the current and future needs of their families. I will support a three-month sales tax holiday, institute job Enterprise Zones, eliminate the personal property tax and work to return the Maryland General Assembly to a citizen legislature by supporting term limits.
I recognize Chesapeake Bay as a critical landmark and economic resource for our state and region. I will support legislation that prevents the next governor and the next General Assembly from raiding the Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund — in order to protect this precious resource, ensuring its continued health and restoration.
Sue Kullen (D) incumbent
50-year-old resident of Port Republic. Degrees in education and management; trained in mediation by the Annapolis Conflict Resolution Center. Consultant, Planning Innovations; owner, The Cottages of Governors Run. First woman to represent Calvert County in the Maryland General Assembly, elected in 2006 after appointment in 2004. Chief Deputy Majority Whip; chair of the Calvert County delegation; vice chair of the Southern Maryland Delegation; president of the Women’s Caucus. Maryland Mental Health Association and Maryland Nurses Association Legislator of the Year, 2010. Rated A by National Rifle Association. Endorsed by Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO; SEIU MD/DC Council, United Transportation Union, Maryland State Education Association, Calvert Education Association, Calvert Association of Educational Support Staff, Maryland Farm Bureau, Tri-County COPE, NARAL Pro-Choice Maryland, MAJ-PAC – Maryland Association for Justice, Democratic Women’s PAC and Maryland League of Conservation Voters,
www.SueKullen.com
Failure to focus on the success and sacrifice needed to clean up the Bay is not an option. As the federal government steps in to be the bad guy for the surrounding Bay states, my first idea is to simply make sure that we are a receptive partner. Instead of fighting reform, we need to evaluate, then embrace the tough choices that need to happen. I will work with my constituents and our state to make sure we do all we can to achieve high outcomes. This is the opportunity of our lifetime.
The second idea is increasing our political strength for the Patuxent River, which drains into the Bay. We need to stop pointing fingers and begin joining hands to find the resources it will take to address the pollution sources of the river. Our Seven County Solution for the Patuxent River has begun the process of requesting a Basin Study that will identify the specific pollution sources and their potential remedies. As the study progresses, we work from a list of small and large projects around the watershed that will reduce stress on the river. As we succeed, we set the example of how it can be done.
Maryland State Senate, District 29
Roy Dyson (D) incumbent
61-year-old lifelong resident of Great Mills. University of Maryland graduate. State senator since 1994, following election first to Maryland House of Delegates (1975-1981), then the U.S. Congress (1981-1991). Senate chair, Joint Committee on Chesapeake and Coastal Bays Critical Areas; vice chair, Senate Education, Health and Environmental Affairs Committee.
Endorsed by Maryland State Education Association, Calvert Education Association, Maryland State & DC AFL-CIO, Maryland Farm Bureau PAC, Maryland Right to Life PAC, Fraternal Order of Police, Maryland Natural Resource Police Lodge 8 United Transportation Union UFCW Local 400 and Maryland League of Conservation Voters.
www.roydyson.org
Preserving the environment and the Chesapeake in general has always been a key priority of mine since I first had the privilege of being elected to public office. Without a clean Bay, a clean Patuxent River and a clean watershed, we can’t possibly properly improve the quality of life for Southern Marylanders. I have always fought for and will continue to help fight for Chesapeake Bay and its watershed.
I have consistently fought to clean up our Bay as the Senate chair of the Joint Committee on the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area and through my work as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Maryland Environmental Trust and as a member of the Task Force to Study the Economic Development of the Maryland Seafood and Aquaculture Industries as well as numerous other task forces and workgroups devoted to improving the environment.
As a member and now as vice chairman of the Senate, Education, Health and Environmental Affairs Committee, I have been successful in strengthening Maryland’s critical areas by being the lead sponsor of successful legislation that has done just that. I am also pleased to have been endorsed this year by the Maryland League of Conservation Voters.
Stephen M. Waugh (R)
No Response
Maryland House of Delegates, District 29C
Southern Calvert and northeastern St. Mary’s counties. Voters elect one of three, with Libertarian Shawn P. Quinn also on the ballot.
Chris Davies (D)
43-year-old, lifelong Marylander living in Lusby. Degrees from James Madison University and Trinity College. Eagle Scout, Boy Scout leader and coach. Officer in the U.S. Army Reserve Military Police. Teaches high school social studies in St. Mary’s County.
Makes his first run for political office with endorsements from the St. Mary’s, Calvert and Maryland Education Associations and the Maryland League of Conservation Voters.
www.daviesfordelegate29c.com
I believe Chesapeake Bay is our region’s greatest resource. Science and resource management must be at the core of all environmental and economic decisions made by Maryland (including working with Virginia). Citizens must take a more active role in Bay restoration.
I am very proud of my family’s active role in helping to improve the waters of the Patuxent River and the Bay. As creek captain, my son Calvin organized 65 homeowners along Calvert County’s Mill Creek to grow oysters for a sanctuary reef. His Eagle Scout project demonstrated how citizens, businesses and the state can work together to make a positive difference for the Bay. In June, we placed 250,000 oysters on the reef. In August we repeated the process for a second season. As part of the Marylander’s Grow Oyster’s Program, we are one of dozens of similar projects around Maryland.
As a state delegate, I will encourage future citizen and community partnerships to help improve the health of the Bay. I will also cut the red tape to make oyster farming, aquaculture, a realistic economic option for those who now make their living on the water. Together we can Save the Bay.
