Bonham -- With the general election just over two weeks away, most candidates took advantage of the Bonham Business & Professional Women's Candidate Forum to address a crowd of approximately 75 residents that gathered at the Fannin County Courthouse South Annex October 16.
The forum, skillfully moderated by local attorney Spanky Carter, offered valuable insight for voters and questions from the audience were also presented to candidates.
Uncontested candidates addressed the crowd first. 336th District Judge Lauri Blake, Fannin County District Attorney Richard Glaser, Fannin County Sheriff Kenneth Moore, Constable Craig Nichols, Constable Bob Clemons and Constable Tammy Nichols Woods all spoke briefly.
Glenn Melancon, a
"I got into this race right after Hurricane Katrina," Melancon said. "We all watched on the news as Americans went hungry and without water."
Melancon cited recent crisis in financial markets, the ongoing struggle to find out why Americans pay more that any other country for a health care system that ranks in the middle of the pack, and the failure to develop a competitive energy market as key issues in the days leading up to the November 4 general election.
"I want to know who is going to bail us out." Melancon said. "Who is going to bail out hard-working Americans? Oil is down to $69 a barrel--1/2 of what it was. Is it half the price at the pump? I don't think so."
In Melancon's view, national security would be better served if
"There is nothing wrong with
State Rep. Rick Noriega, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate was unable to attend, however Lisbeth Echeandia read a prepared statement from Rep. Noriega thanking
In particular, Noriega said the time spent with H.G. Dulaney discussing the career of former U.S. Speaker Sam Rayburn was memorable.
State Representative Larry Phillips, often credited by both parties for being a highly effective voice in
"It has been an honor to serve this District for six years, Rep. Phillips stated. "Six years ago, you welcomed me; you didn't always agree with me, but you respected me. We need to think about people, not parties. The last six years, we've seen some good things happen.
Phillips expects the fact that
Sixth District Judge candidates spoke next.
"Thirty-five years ago when I came to Bonham, I never thought I'd have the honor to stand before the people as a candidate for District Judge," Democratic candidate David Turner remarked. "A Bonham man hasn't held this position since Judge Albert Broadfoot retired in 1961. I want to give something back to the people that have been so good to me."
Republican candidate Eric Clifford stressed his experience, particularly in the specific field of real estate.
"I have practiced all types of law in
Candidates for Fannin County Judge took the podium next.
"My main concern," stated Republican candidate Eileen Cox, "is saving the county money without reducing valuable services."
Ms. Cox is a local attorney that also serves as the attorney for the City of
Democratic candidate George "Butch" Henderson feels his strong background in administration makes him the right person to elect as the chief executive officer of the county.
Mr. Henderson touted his 10 years of experience in local government as a true benefit for a county facing difficult, long-term decisions. He served as the Leonard City Manager before being appointed Fannin County Judge in 2007.
"That was given to me 14 months ago,"
The three candidates vying for Fannin County Commissioner Precinct 1, Steve Edwards, Gary Whitlock and Dale McQueen were up next.
Mr. Edwards feels his 12 years of experience working with the people, roads and bridges in Pct. 1 gives him valuable working knowledge of the concerns facing residents in the Precinct.
Mr. Whitlock said his experience in financial matters and time spent as a heavy equipment operator would benefit the Precinct.
Mr. McQueen noted that, in addition to his background in farming and chemistry, his background includes managing up to 30 people at a time.
Candidates for Fannin County Commissioner Precinct 3 were the last speakers.
Democratic incumbent Dewayne Strickland said he takes pride in the improvements made to roads on Pct. 3 during his time at the helm.
"I'm going for my fourth term," Mr. Strickland pointed out.
In addition to a career in the Coast Guard, Mr. Blaine has 30 years of experience in construction. He currently holds licenses in real estate and as a journeyman electrician.
