Macomb Chronicle | Published October 12, 2022
In the Chronicle’s coverage area, voters will elect candidates vying for various federal, state, county, judicial and school board seats on Nov. 8.
Below are profiles submitted by the candidates. Candidates were asked, in 75 words or fewer, to state their top goal(s) if elected. If a candidate went over the word limit, (…) replaces the rest of the answer. The answers are printed verbatim.
Governor
Six candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for the position is $159,300 plus benefits.
Democrat
Gretchen Whitmer
Age: 51
Occupation: I have served as Michigan’s 49th governor since 2019.
Municipality of residence: Lansing, Michigan
For how long: I have lived in Ingham County since 1989, after moving there from Kent County.
Online campaign information: www.gretchenwhitmer.com
Education: Michigan State University (BA, 1993), Detroit College of Law at Michigan State University (JD, 1998)
Previously and currently held elected offices: I have served as Michigan’s 49th Governor since 2019. I previously served as Ingham County Prosecutor in 2016, in the State Senate from 2006-2015, and in the State House of Representatives from 2001-2006.
Top goals: I am focused on the fundamentals: cutting costs for families, improving education, creating good-paying jobs, building resilient infrastructure, and supporting small businesses.
I will continue fighting to cut taxes for seniors and working families, grow our economy, and protect the fundamental rights of Michigan women.
Despite all the challenges of the past few years, we have brought people together to get things done, and I will build on that momentum to continue moving Michigan forward.
Republican
Tudor M. Dixon
Age: 45
Occupation: Former steel sales executive and small business owner, mother of 4
Municipality of residence: Norton Shores, Muskegon County
For how long: 20+ years
Online campaign information: TudorDixon.com
Education: Psychology degree from University of Kentucky
Previously and currently held elected offices: None.
Top goals: I am running for governor to improve education after Gretchen Whitmer’s lockdowns set our students back. I am running to restore law and order and declare that we will not accept spiking crime and that we support our police. I am running to improve our economy and ease the burden of regulations. I have vowed to cut 40% of regulations in my first four years so businesses can grow and Michiganders can attain good-paying jobs.
Libertarian
Mary Buzuma
Age: 65
Occupation: Retired U.S. Navy after 26 years in Naval Intelligence
Municipality of residence: Grand Haven
For how long: 12 years
Online campaign information: electmarybuzuma.com
Education: BA, Political Science
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: As the first Libertarian governor of Michigan I will work to roll back the state and restore the inalienable right to choose for all Michiganders. The right to choose how to educate their children, how to spend their hard earned money, how to best take care of their medical needs and most important how to live their lives.
U.S. Taxpayers
Donna Brandenburg
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Green
Kevin Hogan
Age: 61
Occupation: Retired Published Research Biochemist (with an Avocation of Substitute Teacher)
Municipality of residence: Dearborn Heights
For how long: No answer given
Online campaign information: Ballotpedia.org
Education: University of Michigan: Biochemistry, Western Governors University: Masters in Education (teach Chemistry)
Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer given
Top goals: Provide for Women’s Equality; LGBTQI(+) Equality, End The Gretchen Whitmer COVID19 (and its Variants) Pandemic, Fix Michigan’s broken Education System (only 10 states are worse in education than Michigan), Improve Everyone’s Standard of Living by Improving the Economy through Job Creation (including fixing the damn roads, bridges, and damns) and Ending the The Gretchen Whitmer Dictatorship (E-Cigarrettes off the market, COVID19 Lock Downs, Mask Mandates,...) and providing for Animal Rights.
Natural Law
Daryl M. Simpson
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Secretary of State
Five candidates are running for one four-year term. The secretary of state receives a salary of $112,410.
Democrat
Jocelyn Benson
Age: 44 (at this writing)
Occupation: Michigan Secretary of State, election lawyer
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: 18 years
Online campaign information: www.votebenson.com
Education: A graduate of Wellesley College, Harvard Law School, Oxford University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Michigan Secretary of State; Wellesley, Massachusetts Town Council
Top goals: If reelected, my goal will be to continue the work we’ve done since 2018, namely continuing to improve services at the Secretary of State’s Office and protect our democracy so every voice is heard and every vote is counted for Republicans, Democrats and Independents, alike. We have modernized our office so branch office visits are 20 minutes or less, and in November 2020 I presided over the safest, most secure general election in Michigan history.
Republican
Kristina Elaine Karamo
Age: 37
Occupation: Professor at Wayne County Community College
Municipality of residence: Oak Park
For how long: 4 years
Online campaign information: www.KristinaKaramo.com
Education: BA from Oakland University in Communications, Master Degree in Christian Apologetics, Biola University in CA.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate
Top goals: Ensure a politically neutral Department of State. Elections shall be operated per the rule-of-law. Car dealership and repair facility inspections along with fees and fines shall not be used to fund a bloated budget when less than 8% of what is currently generated by the SoS is needed to run the SoS. Ensure SOS branch office and vehicle related operations are customer focused, by ensuring local concerns are integral when improving administrative operations.
Libertarian
Gregory Scott Stempfle
Age: 45
Occupation: Medical Technologist, Henry Ford Hospital
Municipality of residence: Ferndale
For how long: Since 2010
Online campaign information: www.stempfle4sos.org
Education: BS Clinical Laboratory Sciences – Wayne State, 2008; MS Molecular Medicine and Genetics - Wayne State, 2012
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: I would like to streamline and automate services, when possible, without leaving those without access to technology behind. I will advocate for changes to the vehicle registration process so that car and truck owners can permanently register their vehicle rather than every year or two years. I will also advocate for changes to our election system to increase the participation of independent and third-party candidates such as ranked choice voting for state elections.
U.S. Taxpayers
Christine C. Schwartz
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Green
Larry James Hutchinson Jr.
Age: 49
Occupation: Artist and author
Municipality of residence: Lansing
For how long: 10 years.
Online campaign information: Facebook
Education: Associates of Arts in psychology, Mott Community College, and studied Anthropology and Political Science at University of Michigan - Flint
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My top goals all fly under the umbrella of campaign finance reform. We need publicly funded elections and for election day to become a state holiday. I’d love to see 100 percent voter participation, but that is not likely. Publicly funded elections can. I sign the waiver and requested that any candidate that has taken money to please return it. Election day becoming a state holiday is a no brainer. Thx and Vote Green.
Attorney General
Four candidates are running for one four-year term. The attorney general receives a salary of $112,410.
Democrat
Dana Nessel
Age: 53
Occupation: Michigan Attorney General
Municipality of residence: Plymouth
For how long: I was elected in 2018.
Online campaign information: www.dananessel.com
Education: Graduated from the University of Michigan and Wayne State University law school.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Attorney General is my first elected office.
Top goals: I would like to continue the work of my first term, fighting for the rights of all Michiganders. I will continue prosecuting sexual assault and domestic violence. I will defend reproductive freedom and uphold the will of the voters. I will pursue consumer protection and go after price-gouging, including when special interests like Big Pharma charge exorbitant prices for life-saving medications. As the People’s Lawyer, I will defend the most vulnerable among us.
Republican
Matthew DePerno
Age: 52
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Kalamazoo
For how long: 24 years
Online campaign information: www.depernoformi.com
Education: Undergrad from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Juris Doctorate from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law in 1994, and master’s degree in Taxation Law (LL.M.) from New York University School of Law in 1995.
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My top goal is to restore Michigan to the great state it once was. I will fight to lower the skyrocketing crime, clean up government corruption and fight for parents rights in schools. Michigan was once a leader in business and education and a place we were proud to call home. I will fight to make this a reality again. I kindly ask for your support.
Libertarian
Joseph W. McHugh Jr.
Age: 44
Occupation: Financial Advisor & Fitness Coach
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: Mid-2021
Online campaign information:
LibertyStrikesBack.com
Education: BA Michigan State University, International Relations & Political Economy; MBA Babson College Entrepreneurship & Sustainability
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: We will restore our liberty and justice by partnering with attorneys and the public to accomplish the following: transparent voting systems run on open source election software, voiding vague laws, terms of service and privacy policy agreements to comply with the 1926 Void for Vagueness doctrine and due process, and enforce a No Harm, No Crime standard to restore free action, release non-violent prisoners, expunge records immediately, and provide backpay for unjustly lost time.
U.S. Taxpayers
Gerald T. Van Sickle
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
U.S. House of Representatives District 10
Four candidates are running for one
two-year term. U.S. representatives
receive a salary of $174,000.
Democrat
Carl Marlinga
Age: 75
Occupation: Retired judge
Municipality of residence: Sterling Heights
For how long: 42 years
Online campaign information: www.marlinga4congress.com
Education: Graduate University of Michigan Law School
Previously and currently held elected offices: Macomb County Prosecuting Attorney, Macomb Probate Judge, Macomb Circuit Judge
Top goals: I will introduce legislation to provide research and development money and other incentives to bring new manufacturing jobs to Michigan. We can and should build the energy saving devices the world is waiting for – things like heat pumps, fast EV charging stations, wind turbines, tidal turbines, and solar panels. We can build a booming economy AND save the planet. I will also strongly support restoring a woman’s right to choose.
Republican
John James
Age: 41
Occupation: President, James Group
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills, MI
For how long: 20 years
Online campaign information: johnjamesmi.com
Education: United States Military Academy, BS; University of Michigan, MBA; Pennsylvania State University, MS Supply Chain Management
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: Tackling rising prices, promoting clean water and quality education, repatriating manufacturing.
I will help stop reckless policies in Washington that cause more expensive gas, food and essentials. We must stop relying on foreign goods and bring our critical supply chains back to the U.S. I will prioritize investment in our futures by keeping our water clean and protecting a parent’s right to educate their children where they will be safest and most successful.
Libertarian
Mike Saliba
Age: 37
Occupation: Small Business Owner
Municipality of residence: Clinton Township
For how long: Most of my life
Online campaign information: votesaliba.com
Education: Some college
Previously and currently held elected offices: None yet
Top goals: My key promise is to vote no on any bill that does not decrease the power of government or increase the freedom of the people. I have pledged to co-sign HR 25, The FAIRtax Bill, which is already in committee in the house. I will demand our leaders seek PEACE in Ukraine. I believe in more personal freedom than a Democrat and more fiscal responsibility than a Republican. I am a Libertarian.
Working Class
Andrea L. Kirby
Age: 45
Occupation: Union Worker
Municipality of residence: Eastpointe
For how long: 10
Online campaign information: https://workingclassfight.com/
Education: College graduate
Previously and currently held elected offices: n/a
Top goals: My top priority would be to ensure that all of the wealth that is generated by the working class are used for the needs of the working class and not diverted to corporate tax subsidies and banks. Funding to be used for education, public health, infrastructure and more. Jobs for all those that want to work. Wages that grow with inflation. Promoting the unity and strength of the working class would be my top priority.
State Senate District 11
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. State senators
receive a salary of $71,685.
Democrat
Veronica Klinefelt
Age: 58
Occupation: County Commissioner
Municipality of residence: Eastpointe
For how long: 30 years
Online campaign information: Veronicaklinefelt.com
Education: Macomb Community College 2 years
Wayne State University BS in Criminal Justice
Previously and currently held elected offices: East Detroit School Board 6 years, Eastpointe City Council 8 years, Macomb County Board of Commissioners almost 10 years (currently serving)
Top goals: If elected I would like to see more investment in our local communities. I support a robust infrastructure program to modernize our aging buildings, roads, and water/sewer infrastructure. I believe in strong investment in our local public school systems. All children should have access to early childhood learning. Every child should be well prepared to enter kindergarten. I support quality of life and recreational programs for seniors and our youth.
Republican
Mike MacDonald
Age: 42
Occupation: State Senator
Municipality of residence: Macomb
For how long: Lifelong resident of Macomb County
Online campaign information: www.electmikemacdonald.com
Education: Graduated from De La Salle High School, studied at Macomb Community College before earning my Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science from Western Michigan University, a master’s degree in business administration from Oakland University and a doctoral degree in health administration.
Previously and currently held elected offices: I have only held the office of State Senator, 10th District.
Top goals: I am running to be your next state senator because I understand the issues that matter to our community including reducing inflation and creating a business environment where we can better provide for our families.
So far, I have secured $72 million for Macomb water infrastructure, $32 million Mound Road improvements, $25 for the Macomb County Health Department, $8.1 million to enhance Selfridge Base and will keep fighting for Macomb’s fair share.
State Senate District 12
Two candidates are running for
one four-year term. State senators
receive a salary of $71,685.
Democrat
Kevin Hertel
Age: 37
Occupation: State Representative
Municipality of residence: St. Clair Shores
For how long: 12 years
Online campaign information: KevinHertelforSenate.com
Education: Attended Michigan State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: State Representative 2017-current
Top goals: My goal is to break through the political noise and get things done for our communities. I will work to lower costs by reducing taxes for families, ending the pension tax and making prescription drugs more affordable. I will also prioritize our public schools to ensure our children have the best opportunities to succeed. Working together we will protect Lake St. Clair, support small businesses and make sure first responders have the resources they need.
Republican
Pamela Hornberger
Age: 54
Occupation: State Representative, Former Educator
Municipality of residence: Chesterfield Twp
For how long: 24 years
Online campaign information: www.pamelahornberger.com
Education: MS. Ed, Saginaw Valley State University, B.S. Michigan State University, Teacher Certification, Wayne State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: State Representative District #32, 2016-present, L’Anse Creuse Board of Education 2010-2016
Top goals: Inflation, Infrastructure and Education. Our economy is in the gutter. Families are struggling to fill their gas tanks and buy groceries. I will continue working to cut taxes and provide economic relief for families and job providers, as well as champion student and parent’s rights in education. Small businesses provide 75% of MI jobs. Quality education and work ethic in partnership with our small businesses leads to stronger communities and a stronger economy.
State House of Representatives District 59
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. State representatives receive a salary of $71,685.
Democrat
James Diez
Age: 57
Occupation: Retired, Executive in Manufacturing and Global Supply Chain in automotive and aerospace industries
Municipality of residence: Shelby Township
For how long: 12 years
Online campaign information: www.voteforjames.net
Education: Masters of Science in Engineering Management, University of Missouri, Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Lawrence Technological University, Graduate of Darden University Executive Training Program
Previously and currently held elected offices: none
Top goals: I’m standing up for old school American values and rights. I am Pro Choice, Pro Gun Safety, and Pro Voting Rights. I’m exhausted by the hate, division, and gridlock. We can have differences, yet we should still listen and treat each other with respect. As your State Representative, I vow to do so. The State House makes the laws, who you vote for will impact in the upcoming months. Any questions please call me 586-884-1143.
Republican
Douglas C. Wozniak
Age: 75
Occupation: Elder Law Attorney
Municipality of residence: Shelby Township
For how long: 30+ years
Online campaign information: www.dougwozniak.com
Education: Law degree from Detroit College of Law at Michigan State University, Bachelors degree in math from University of Michigan
Previously and currently held elected office: State Senator, 2021-present; State Representative, 2019-2021; Shelby Township Trustee, 2008-2018
Top goals: I want to continue my work protecting the rights of seniors. I also want to strengthen our state and regional economy. We need to reduce taxes on our residents to counter the rising costs of inflation on everyday goods and services. Most importantly, we need to ensure our elections are secure so that every vote is counted and protected against voter fraud.
State House of Representatives District 60
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. State representatives receive a salary of $71,685.
Democrat
Linda Rose Clor
Age: 63
Occupation: No answer given.
Municipality of residence: I live in the southern area Macomb Twp, zip code 48044
For how long: I have lived at this residence since September 1998.
Online campaign information: Facebook, Linda Clor for State Representative.
Education: I have a Master’s Degree from Wayne State University in Clinical Social Work Interpersonal Skills.
Previously and currently held elected offices: I do not presently hold elected office.
Top goals: My top goal as an elected official will be listening to my constituents and their concerns. I support sustaining democracy, women having freedom of reproductive choices, gun control for safe schools, accessible in person comprehensive mental and physical healthcare services, support to small business, education for job success, good roads and infrastructure, clean water, air and soil and American independence of daily products and services. I will be a Democrat for all people.
Republican
Joseph Aragona
Age: 35
Occupation: Deputy Supervisor in Harrison Township
Municipality of residence: Clinton Township
For how long: I was born and raised in Macomb County
Online campaign information: JosephAragona.com
Education: B.S. in Biomedical Diagnostics from Oakland University & MBA from Michigan State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: I was a Trustee in Clinton Township 2016-2022
Top goals: When I’m elected, I want to protect our senior population, defend the police and fully fund public safety, use surplus dollars for road repairs, and help small business by reducing regulations. I want to make sure we are fiscally responsible and conservative with our tax dollars WITHOUT raising taxes.
Macomb County Executive
Two candidates are running for one
four-year term. The Macomb County executive receives a salary of $175,061.
Democrat
Mark A. Hackel
Age: 60
Occupation: County Executive
Municipality of residence: Macomb Township
For how long: 19 yrs. Macomb Twp.; Lifelong resident of Macomb County
Online campaign information: www.markhackel.com
Education: Sterling Heights High School; Wayne State University; Central Michigan University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Macomb County Sheriff; Macomb County Executive
Top goals: It is my priority to provide trusted leadership for Macomb County. For the past twelve years as Macomb County Executive, I have developed an ambitious strategy to raise the County’s profile and enhance our quality of life. We are committed to developing innovative and impactful ways to modernize our infrastructure, strengthen our economy and cultivate a welcoming and safe community for all.
Republican
Nicholyn Brandenburg
Age: 76
Occupation: Retired
Municipality of residence: Macomb County, Macomb Township, Michigan
For how long: 41 years
Online campaign information: Not Available
Education: Utica High School, Diploma, Medical Technologist Elkhart University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Macomb County Commissioner, Macomb County, MI
Top goals: Having an 18-year background as county commissioner allowed me to work with many government officials and we were able to get things done without litigations or lawsuits. As your County Executive, I would implement zero based budgeting, lower taxes, fight crime, and corruption at every level with an emphasis on neighborhood watch programs, create programs to attract new business development, support and create programs for senior and veterans, and support clean water initiatives. I will …
Macomb County Board of Commissioners District 4
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. Macomb County commissioners receive a salary of $35,704. The board chair, elected by the commissioners, receives a salary of $91,809.
Democrat
Gary E. Cynowa
Age: 74
Occupation: Retired L’Anse Creuse Teacher for 36 years
Municipality of residence: Macomb Twp.
For how long: 46
Online campaign information: Contact: gcynowa@comcast.net
Education: Graduate of Utica High School, 1965; BA from Oakland University, 1968; M.Ed. from Wayne State University, 1972.
Previously and currently held elected offices: precinct delegate, former nominee for state representative
Top goals: 1. Advocate for a balanced, prioritized budget using current tax rates, pursuing added funding from stated and federal grants and programs, and working to share costs and building space with local township and city partners to provide excellent services for our residents.
2. Realign more infrastructure dollars to focus on safer water and sewer systems.
3. Merge/coordinate mental and physical healthcare services where possible.
4. Hold frequent community forums on citizen concerns.
Republican
Joe Sabatini
Age: 46
Occupation: County Commissioner
Municipality of residence: Macomb Township
For how long: 17 years in Macomb Township & Lifelong Macomb County Resident
Online campaign information: Sabatini4Macomb.com
Education: Bachelor of Science-Double Major in Accounting & Finance from Oakland University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Macomb County Commissioner-District 13 from 2011 to 2016, 2021 to Present
Top goals: My top priority in the next term will be to determine what ARP funding dollars should be specifically spent on and how that will benefit Macomb Township. This is a large amount of money that must be used on infrastructure, public safety, public health, and other items as stipulated by the federal government. I have the experience making touch decisions that are necessary to ensure our financial stability and keep us safe.
Justice of Supreme Court
Five candidates are running for two eight-year terms. Justices
earn a salary of $165,000.
Richard Bernstein
Age: 48
Occupation: Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court
Municipality of residence: Birmingham
For how long: 23 years in Birmingham and lifelong resident of Michigan
Online campaign information: TheBlindJustice.com
Education: Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of Michigan and earned juris doctor from Northwestern University School of Law
Previously and currently held elected offices: Former member of the Wayne State University Board of Governors and current Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court
Top goals: The greatest need in Michigan’s justice system is increasing access to justice so all people have an opportunity to participate and navigate the justice system without getting left behind. The Michigan Supreme Court’s Justice For All Task Force is committed to working towards 100% access to justice in the civil system and I applaud the effort to make Michigan courts more accessible to all people statewide.
Kyra Harris Bolden
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Paul Hudson
Age: 40
Occupation: Lawyer
Municipality of residence: Kalamazoo
For how long: 10 years
Online campaign information: www.hudsonforjustice.com
Education: Cornell University, B.A. in Government and Philosophy, 2003; Georgetown University Law Center, J.D., cum laude, 2006
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: As a Supreme Court Justice, my top goal is to be the fiercely independent, nonpartisan, and fair-minded judicial umpire that Michigan voters deserve. A good judge, much like a good umpire, doesn’t make up the rules or change them mid-game. A good judge just calls balls and strikes, faithfully applying the rules as written - fairly, consistently, and without favoring one side or the other.
Kerry Lee Morgan
Age: 67
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Redford Township
For how long: 40years
Online campaign information: https://www.martindale.com/attorney/kerry-lee-morgan-2161158/
Education: Michigan State University, B.A.; Regent University, M.A.; Detroit College of Law, J.D.
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: The Supreme Court needs Justices who will apply the law as written, not as it should be written in the mind of the Judge. The restoration of this purpose is my top goal.
Brian Zahra
Age: 62
Occupation: Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court
Municipality of residence: Northville Township
For how long: 24 years
Online campaign information: Zahra4Justice.com
Education: JD, University of Detroit School of Law (1987); BGS, Wayne State University (1984)
Previously and currently held elected offices: Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, January 14, 2011 to present. Elected in 2012, re-elected in 2014. Judge of the Michigan Court of Appeals, December, 1998 to January 13, 2011. Elected in 2000, re-elected in 2006. Judge of the Wayne County Circuit Court, December 1994 to December 1998. Elected in 1996.
Top goals: Continue to be a voice for judicial restraint, an advocate for the separation of constitutional powers, and a defender of our state and federal constitutions. Administratively, I will continue my work as Co-Chair of the Access to Justice Commission. There is no right to a lawyer in civil cases. Nonetheless, these cases involve issues critically important to Michigan families. The legal profession must step up to provide guidance to those unable to obtain legal assistance.
Judge of Court of Appeals - 2nd District (Partial Term)
Two candidates are running for one partial term ending Jan. 1, 2027. Michigan court of appeals judges receive a salary of $173,092.
Sima Patel
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Michael Warren
Age: 55
Occupation: Judge, Oakland Circuit Court
Municipality of residence: Beverly Hills
For how long: 27 years
Online campaign information: www.JudgeMichaelWarren.com
Education: Wayne State University, BA Honors History (1989); University of Michigan Law School, JD (1992)
Previously and currently held elected offices: State Board of Education (1999-2002); Judge, Oakland County Circuit Court (2002-present)
Top goals: For decades Judge Michael Warren has been tenaciously fighting for justice, the rule of law, fairness, and the Constitution. He has tried over 360 jury trials and was named Judge of the Decade. Endorsed by Sheriff Mike Bouchard (R), Sheriff Anthony Wickersham (D), and the Police Officers Association of Michigan; he co-founded Patriot Week with his then 10 year old daughter (www.PatriotWeek.org). His leadership and experience will strengthen Michigan’s Court of Appeals.
Judge of the 16th Circuit Court (Partial Term)
Two candidates are running for one partial term ending Jan. 1, 2025. Michigan circuit court judges receive an annual salary of $168,752.
Teri Lynn Dennings
Age: 47
Occupation: Family and Juvenile Circuit Court Judge
Municipality of residence: Macomb County (Specifics omitted for privacy/safety)
For how long: 21 years
Online campaign information: retainterilynn.com
Education: St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Eastern Michigan University, Wayne State Law School
Previously and currently held elected offices: Current: Judge of Macomb County Circuit Court, Family and Juvenile Division
Top goals: (1) Respect everyone, (2) Provide a non-intimidating environment, (3) Get kids on the right track, and; (4) Improve efficiency through innovation, which includes continuing Zoom access when it is desired by the litigants and appropriate for the matter. Litigants and attorneys appreciate the efficiencies and cost savings that Zoom provides. Litigants take less time off work and expend less resources on things like attorney fees, gas, parking, and child care to make routine court appearances.
Steven R. Fox
Age: 45
Occupation: Assistant Macomb County Prosecutor
Municipality of residence: Macomb Township
For how long: 16 Years in Macomb Township
Online campaign information: VoteFox4Judge.com
Education: 2002 – Juris Doctor – Wayne State University Law School – Magna Cum Laude; 1999 – Bachelor of Arts – Michigan State University – With Honors
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: As Circuit Court Judge, I will bring significant courtroom experience to the bench in Macomb County. I have dedicated my life to public safety and public service, and I will continue to do so as Circuit Court Judge. I will treat everyone with fairness and dignity, and will ensure that my decisions are based on the law as written, without any outside or political influence. Check the Box for Fox!
Chippewa Valley Schools Board of Education
Six candidates are running
for three six-year terms.
Christopher Gura
Age: 51
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Macomb Township
For how long: 15 years
Online campaign information: www.guraforschoolboard.com
Education: Juris Doctor, University of Detroit Mercy School of Law (2002); BA, Michigan State University (1994); Macomb Community College (1989-1991); Chippewa Valley High School (1989)
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals:
(1) Support teachers and staff, both professionally and with competitive wages, to maximize our ability to retain and attract qualified and enthusiastic educators, have smaller class sizes, and provide our kids with the best education and public-school experience. (2) Allocate adequate resources to make our school buildings as safe as possible with the most up-to-date technology. (3) Be a voice of common sense and reason in bridging relations between the district and the community.
Shannon King
Age: 41
Occupation: Director of Talent Acquisition
Municipality of residence: Clinton Township (Chippewa Valley Schools)
For how long: 4 years
Online campaign information: www.facebook.com/King4CVSBoard
Education: Some College
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals:
· Transparent and partnership-oriented communication. The polarization within our nation, we need individuals in place that are willing to work diplomatically to bring all sides together.
· Recruitment and retention of talented and qualified teachers and staff.
· Promoting safer schools. Policies and programs that promote student’s emotional and mental well-being. Threat assessment with safety professionals to enhance protocols and resources.
· Enrich student programs that ready them for tomorrow’s workforce.
· Increase Parent Involvement.
Lewis A. Miles III
Age: 48
Occupation: Rigger/Ironworker
Municipality of residence: Macomb Township
For how long: 4 years
Online campaign information: www.electlewmiles.com
Education: 4 year apprenticeship to become journeyman
Previously and currently held elected offices: Sergent-at-Arms; Executive Committee member, Ironworkers Local Union 25
Top goals: To make sure all students are provided a quality education by getting back to basics of math, science, writing, reading, social studies and life skills to ensure a successful transition into adulthood. To encourage parental involvement, bring back community trust and reverse enrollment decline. Safety, both inside and outside of the schools; including busing, child accountability and create / adhere to no bullying policy. Increasing teacher and staff compensation and classroom funding.
Terry Prince
Age: 56
Occupation: Program Analyst
Municipality of residence: Macomb
For how long: 8 years
Online campaign information: www.electterryprince.com
Education: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Central Michigan University, 1988
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: Restore community trust and reverse enrollment decline by increasing transparency, encouraging parental involvement, increasing teacher and support staff (subs, para-pro’s, bus drivers, etc.) compensation and classroom funding, encourage respect and equal treatment of all staff and students, and reduce debt. Ensure schools are safe and secure for all and all classrooms are safe spaces without political or agenda-driven biases. Respect parental choices. Focus on education first!
Monica Radyko
Age: 39
Occupation: Stay-at-home mom/substitute teacher
Municipality of residence: Macomb Township
For how long: 5 years
Online campaign information: electmonicaradyko.org
Education: Oakland University, Bachelor of Science in Education, Certification Elementary Education K-8, Language Arts Endorsement.
Saginaw Valley State University, Master’s Degree Early Childhood Education, ZA Endorsement
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: To engage families in their children’s learning, build partnerships between families, teachers, and administrators. Stop declining enrollment by earning trust back from our families. Community transparency. Increase the pay of substitute teachers and support staff. Fund teachers’ classrooms with necessary supplies needed for learning. Competitive pay for teachers. Reduce classroom size. Hire more resource officers to keep schools safe. Host town halls where students, teachers and family voices can be heard. Reduce school debt.
Bruce Wade
Age: 65
Occupation: Retired Clinton Township Police Chief. Currently Commissioner on Clinton Twp. Planning Commission.
Municipality of residence: Clinton Township.
For how long: Over 30 years
Online campaign information: BruceWade 4 School Board
Education: Masters Degree from the University of Detroit. Graduate of the National FBI Academy N/A
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: As the retired Police Chief of Clinton Township my top priority will always be keeping our schools the safest they can be. As the Police Chief I demonstrated trust and transparency with the public and I will bring that to the School Board. I want to improve student academic scores and put them in the best possible position for future success. I have a proven track record of uniting people and want to bring that to the district.
Chippewa Valley Schools Board of Education
Two candidates are running for one partial term ending Dec. 31, 2026.
Kenneth A. Pearl
Age: 72
Occupation: Director of Operations, Slatkin Corporation. State of Michigan licensed builder and master electrician.
Municipality of residence: Clinton Township
For how long: 32 years
Online campaign information: www.facebook.com/KenPearlForSchoolBoard
Education: Cass Technical High School & Wayne State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: City of Fraser Councilman (served eight years), Charter Township of Clinton Trustee (served twelve years) & Chippewa Valley School Board (served eight years), currently appointed to a one year term in 2021 to fill a board vacancy.
Top goals: I believe our Board of Education’s top priorities should be focused on student achievement, re-building positive relationships throughout the school district, creating smaller class size, increasing student mental health support, providing additional school safety measures, and attracting and retaining teachers and staff. I will partner with our superintendent and our board to accomplish our shared goals. I will always support the best interests of our students.
John Wasilina
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
L’Anse Creuse Public Schools
Board of Education
Thirteen candidates are running for three six-year terms.
Don Cooley
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
John Da Via
Age: 70
Occupation: Retired Educator
Municipality of residence: Harrison Township
For how long: 33 years.
Online campaign information: FB: John Da Via for L’Anse Creuse
Education: BA Ed and MA Ed. from University of Michigan; J.D. From Wayne State University;
Ed. Specialist Cert., Wayne State University.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Secretary, Harrison Township Library Board.
Top goals: 1.Assure student safety is the best available, without turning schools into places students are afraid of.
2.Although we’re all tired of hearing about Covid, conduct an impartial survey of the
community on LCPS’s response to the pandemic. What did we do well? Not so well? What did other districts do better? That’s what learning organizations do.
3. Examine how increased funding from the federal government, state, and MISD is making its way to district classrooms.
Al Doss
Age: 47
Occupation: Servicing Representative, International UAW
Municipality of residence: Harrison Township
For how long: 24 years
Online campaign information: Facebook: Al Doss for L’Anse Creuse School Board
Education: 8000 Hour Department of Labor Millwright Apprenticeship
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My top goals are to support students through the support of teachers and our staff. Our biggest asset is our teachers. My focuses are teacher retention, safety concerns and practices, uniting our district from the north end to the south end and working to develop a more robust technical program directed at non-college bound students. Educational diversity and a highly skilled teacher pool within the district will allow our services to speak for themselves
Sandra R. Hernden
Age: 46
Occupation: Mom, Police Officer, Paramedic, Small Business Owner.
Municipality of residence: Macomb
For how long: 8 years
Online campaign information: Facebook-Sandra R. Hernden for L’Anse Creuse School Board.
Education: Roseville High School Graduate; State Licensed Paramedic; Graduate of the Detroit Metropolitan Police Academy
Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer given.
Top goals: As your School Board Member, I will provide transparency and forward thinking regarding School Safety, Curriculum, Education, and District Finance. I will listen and hear Parents and Students regarding their concerns, supporting conversations, to assist in my decision making process, always putting children first. I will strive to empower and engage our parents and community for the betterment of our District. I will be an honest, trustworthy, transparent partner to all children, families, and staff.
Nikki Knight
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Sharon M. Kohlitz
Age: 67
Occupation: Healthcare Administrator
Municipality of residence: Harrison Township
For how long: 13 years
Online campaign information: No answer given.
Education: Registered Nurse, B.S. HealthCare Administration from U of D.
Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer given.
Top goals: A strong academic foundation, promotion of the early college program, early intervention and support and enhancement of the technical /trade programs
Janell Kosmala
Age: 45
Occupation: Stay at home parent, former emergency veterinary technician
Municipality of residence: Harrison Township
For how long: 40 years
Online campaign information: https://www.facebook.com/KosmalaforSchoolBoard
Education: 1995 Graduate of LCHS, B.S. in Psychology from Wayne State University
Previously and currently held elected office: None
Top goals: I would bring calm, rational discussions of issues to the table in order to find common sense solutions. Communication is key. Safety and mental health of students are my top concerns. Quality public education is needed for our community to thrive. The additional money we’ve received from the state should go toward classroom resources, new technology, student support systems and educator pay. We need to retain our outstanding staff and attract qualified teachers.
Norman Kuchenmeister
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Jody Lesinski
Age: 51
Occupation: Business Owner
Municipality of residence: Chesterfield
For how long: 18 years
Online campaign information: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082413505867
Education: Bachelors Degree
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: I believe parents need a voice on the board. A voice is needed to put kids and learning first and fight for academics over activism. I believe a return to common sense decision making in academia needs to take place and parents need to be a part of it. Politics and divisive rhetoric have no place our schools. An emphasis on fundamentals and academic integrity. Hiring based solely on quality of candidates.
Michelle Ropp
Age: 48
Occupation: Paraprofessional and Substitute Teacher for L’Anse Creuse Public Schools
Municipality of residence: Harrison Twp
For how long: 20 years
Online campaign information: Facebook: Michelle Ropp for L’Anse Creuse School Board
Education: BA in Science with a concentration in Psychology and Sociology from Wayne State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer given.
Top goals: Safety of our staff and students. We need more training and safety updates in our buildings.
Updates on buildings and technology. Many of our buildings are older and need a lot of repairs and updates.
Staff retention, pay and treatment: as in ALL staff! It is our staff that takes care of our students, so if we want the best of our students, we need to start with the staff.
Robert Ross
Age: 68
Occupation: Retired: UPS, Retired: US Navy, US Air Force
Municipality of residence: Chesterfield Township
For how long: 24 years
Online campaign information: FB: Sharon McTavish Ross (sharing my wife’s page)
Education: Associate Degree, Engineering. Air Force Aviation Resource Management School; Navy: Advanced Aviation Anti-Submarine Warfare School, Helicopter Combat Search and Rescue Training
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: Quality education: Teach facts and critical thinking skills. History taught as it happened. Focus on reading, writing, and arithmetic. In-person instruction is the key to learning.
Parent’s rights: They are your children.
Local control: The State should be our partner in education, not our dictator.
Student safety: Paramount. Stay the course on the cutting edge of systems and policies.
Continued financial integrity: We’re in sound financial shape, continue responsible decisions.
Sharon L. McTavish Ross
Age: 64
Occupation: Retired
Municipality of residence: Chesterfield Township
For how long: 24 years
Online campaign information: FB: Sharon McTavish Ross
Education: Associate Degree, Medical Transcription Certification
Previously and currently held elected offices: Current: L’Anse Creuse School Board 2013-present, Board Secretary 2015-present
Top goals: Teaching reading, writing, arithmetic, and history, as it happened. Continue giving all of our students a world class education, making the hard decisions (i.e. during the pandemic to keep school open), local control, and parent’s rights. L’Anse Creuse has been leading in student safety for years and always will. Continue expanding our incredible CTE programs. Michigan just passed a finance class requirement for graduation, which I have been advocating for years.
Dustin M. Walker
Age: 40
Occupation: Mortgage Loan Officer
Municipality of residence: Chesterfield Twp.
For how long: 16 years
Online campaign information: https://www.facebook.com/Dustin-Walker-for-LAnse-Creuse-School-Board-107969601941987
Education: BA Western Michigan University 2004
Previously and currently held elected offices: I’ve previously never held any elected office
Top goals: I’m running for a spot on the school board to bring professionalism back to the board. As a father of three and a wife who is an educator, I would love the opportunity to help improve the district for all students, teachers, and staff. I work well with others, treat everyone with respect, work hard, and show up on time. The three items I will focus on are transparency, safety, and athletics.
Macomb Community College Board of Trustees
Five candidates are running for two six-year terms.
Joseph A. Backus
Age: 58
Occupation: Math/Science teacher at Eastpointe Community Schools
Municipality of residence: Roseville, previously St. Clair Shores
For how long:10 yrs. in Roseville, 40 yrs. in St. Clair Shores
Online campaign information: NA
Education: Master’s in Educational Leadership
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct and State Delegate from St. Clair Shores and Roseville for about 30 years.
Top goals: I am most interested in three things: 1) making higher education affordable. 2) expanding education with technology as the last several years have shown us, 3) preserving the face to face interaction between educators and students.
Robert Boccomino
Age: 58 years old
Occupation: Senior Housing Clerk for the City of Warren
Municipality of residence: Warren, MI
For how long: 23 years
Online campaign information: https://onyourballot.vote411.org/candidate-detail.do?id=4185682
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Central Michigan University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Warren City Councilman, 2007-2019.
Top goals: My primary issue is keeping Macomb Community College affordable while offering top quality instructional programs for everyone. My focus is on promoting student success, strengthening programs and partnerships with businesses, and enhancing academic experiences. By working with all local and state legislators, businesses, community leaders, and parents, my role as a Trustee is to ensure Macomb Community College continues to provide a high quality educational experience at a reasonable cost for everyone.
Kristi Dean
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Katherine Lorenzo
Age: 74
Occupation: retired Macomb Community College Professor
Municipality of residence: Clinton Township
For how long: 30 years
Online campaign information: NA
Education: A.A Macomb Community College, B.A. (Psychology/English) Wayne State, M.A. (Psychology) Wayne State, Post Grad
Previously and currently held elected offices: Macomb Community College Board of Trustees Chairperson.
Top goals: 1.To continue working to position the College as a leader in higher education, workforce development, and enrichment.
2. To ensure support of our veterans and diverse populations, our free Dental Clinic, the mitigation of cybersecurity threats, and retention of a vibrant workforce.
3. To respond quickly to the ever-changing needs of the county.
4. To serve students and all residents with the support of my fellow Trustees.
Louise Strong
Age: 59
Occupation: Homemaker
Municipality of residence: Clinton Twp.
For how long: resident for 30 years
Online campaign information: I do not have any online campaingn site.
Education: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct delegate for Republican party in my district
Top goals: Promoting veterans and first responders free or low cost education. I have been a volunteer at Macomb Veteran Support Center since 2011. I’ve developed a special appreciation for those who sacrificed for us. I’d also like to see a program for the spouses and children of those veterans and first responders to get a discounted tuition rate. Setting up a future employment program for students attending MCC, maybe give tax incentives to the perspective employers.
Statewide proposals
Proposal 22-1
A proposal to amend the state constitution to require annual public financial disclosure reports by legislators and other state officers and change state legislator term limit to 12 total years in legislature.
This proposed constitutional amendment would:
• Require members of legislature, governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, and attorney general file annual public financial disclosure reports after 2023, including assets, liabilities, income sources, future employment agreements, gifts, travel reimbursements, and positions held in organizations except religious, social, and political organizations.
• Require legislature implement but not limit or restrict reporting requirements.
• Replace current term limits for state representatives and state senators with a 12-year total limit in any combination between house and senate, except a person elected to senate in 2022 may be elected the number of times allowed when that person became a candidate.
Should this proposal be adopted?
Proposal 22-2
A proposal to amend the state constitution to add provisions regarding elections.
This proposed constitutional amendment would:
• Recognize fundamental right to vote without harassing conduct;
• Require military or overseas ballots be counted if postmarked by election day;
• Provide voter right to verify identity with photo ID or signed statement;
• Provide voter right to single application to vote absentee in all elections;
• Require state-funded absentee-ballot drop boxes, and postage for absentee applications and ballots;
• Provide that only election officials may conduct post-election audits;
• Require nine days of early in-person voting;
• Allow donations to fund elections, which must be disclosed;
• Require canvass boards certify election results based only on the official records of votes cast.
Should this proposal be adopted?
Proposal 22-3
A proposal to amend the state constitution to establish new individual right to reproductive freedom, including right to make all decisions about pregnancy and abortion; allow state to regulate abortion in some cases; and forbid prosecution of individuals exercising established right. This proposed constitutional amendment would:
• Establish new individual right to reproductive freedom, including right to make and carry out all decisions about pregnancy, such as prenatal care, childbirth, postpartum care, contraception, sterilization, abortion, miscarriage management, and infertility;
• Allow state to regulate abortion after fetal viability, but not prohibit if medically needed to protect a patient’s life or physical or mental health;
• Forbid state discrimination in enforcement of this right; prohibit prosecution of an individual, or a person helping a pregnant individual, for exercising rights established by this amendment;
• Invalidate state laws conflicting with this amendment.
Should this proposal be adopted?
Macomb County Veterans’ Millage
If approved, this proposal will renew for four (4) years, 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026, the current 0.069 mills levied by Macomb County that expires in 2022. This will continue funding the financial aid and services for Macomb County veterans and support the administration of the Macomb County Department of Veteran Affairs and Macomb County Veteran Affairs Commission.
Shall the 0.069 mills, (6.9 cents per $1,000 of taxable value), be renewed for four (4) years, 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026 inclusive, to be levied by Macomb County on taxable real and personal property for the purpose of providing financial aid and services for Macomb County Veterans and to support the administration of the Macomb County Department of Veterans Affairs and Macomb County Veterans Affairs Commission? It is estimated that a levy of 0.069 mills will raise approximately $2,403,108 in the first calendar year of the levy. For example, on a property having a residential market value of $100,000 (estimated taxable value of $50,000), 0.069 mills would be $3.45 of levied tax annually.
Macomb County Public Transportation Millage
This proposal represents a reduction in previous years’ millage rate. If approved, this proposal will assess .95 mills for the years 2022 through 2026, for the purpose of providing continued support for the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) and its public transportation services for the elderly, the disabled, and the general public within Macomb County. For the purpose of providing funds in support of public transportation serving the elderly, disabled, and general public, shall the limitation on the amount of taxes assessed on taxable property located within Macomb County, be established at .95 mills for a period of five (5) years, 2022 through 2026? It is estimated that this millage rate would raise approximately $31,188,115.32 in the first year.
Macomb Intermediate School District
Counties of Macomb, St. Clair and Oakland
State of Michigan
Special Education Facilities Improvement Bond Proposal
Shall the Macomb Intermediate School District, Counties of Macomb, St. Clair and Oakland, State of Michigan, borrow the sum of not to exceed Ninety-Seven Million, Four Hundred and Sixty-Five Thousand Dollars ($97,465,000) and issue its general obligation unlimited tax bonds, in one or more series, for the purpose of paying for the cost of the following capital projects:
• Serving special education students, including infants and toddlers, throughout Macomb County, with disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, cognitive impairments and emotional disabilities by:
• Acquiring sites and erecting special education buildings, acquiring buildings for special education, erecting additions to existing school buildings and other facilities and preparing developing and improving sites at school buildings and other facilities for special education; and
• Remodeling, equipping, re-equipping, furnishing, re-furnishing school buildings and other facilities for special education; and purchasing school buses for special education students?
• The maximum number of years any series of bonds may be outstanding, exclusive of refunding, is not more than Twenty-four and one quarter (24.25) years; the estimated millage that will be levied to pay the proposed bonds in the first year is 0.17 mills (which is equal to $0.17 per $1,000 of taxable value); and the estimated simple average annual millage that will be required to retire each series of bonds is 0.15 mills annually ($0.15 per $1,000 of taxable value). The tax levy to pay the proposed bonds in the first year for a