HAVE YOU EVER HELD ELECTIVE OFFICE? - Yes

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN APPOINTED TO SERVE ON A BOARD OR TASK FORCE? - YES -

Executive Board of the North Central Regional Planning Commission, Salina/Saline County Health Board, Salina Housing Authority Board, President of the Salina Symphony, Board of Directors 6 years and member of the symphony for 18 years playing trumpet, Salina Area Chamber of Commerce and past Ambassador of the Year two consecutive years, Salina Chamber Leadership Task Force 12 years, Salina Chamber Junior Leadership Chairman for Business and Industry 10 Years, Salina Public Library Board Member 8 years serving as President 3 years and Treasurer 4 years, Smoky Hill River Festival Co-Chair 15 years, Salina Municipal Band Board Treasurer 12 years and Band member 19 years, Kansas State Republican Party Constitution and Bylaws revision committee, Parliamentarian for the Big 1st Congressional District Republican Committee and previously at Kansas Republican Party State Committee Meetings, 2008 Kansas Electoral College Voter, past Executive Director Hugh O’Brian Nebraska Leadership Seminars, Eagle Scout.

POSITION STATEMENT:

Kansas is a very diverse state, representing a variety of interests on any given subject. One of the most prevalent areas of discontent among lawmakers is education finance. With the 2013 session rapidly approaching, education funding has once again become a primary point of dialogue between members and their constituents. Unfortunately, information widely distributed by outside parties has been inaccurate and served to add additional confusion and frustration to education finance discussions.

In an effort to bridge the gap, Chairman Rhoades has provided refresher information on the action taken by the Legislature on education funding during the 2012 session. Below you will find the facts and figures on the state budget and education funding:

• During the 2008-2009 school year, under the Sebelius administration, the BSAPP was $4,400;
• During the 2009-2010 school year, under the Parkinson administration, the BSAPP was lowered to $4,012, representing a $388 cut per pupil from the previous year;
• The largest single cut to Base State Aid Per Pupil (BSAPP) was $157 per pupil during the Parkinson administration. Multiple cuts were made in the same year resulting in a final BSAPP cut of $388 per pupil;
• During FY 2010 and FY 2011, under the Parkinson administration, the BSAPP went from $4,012 per student to $3,937 per student – representing a three year BSAPP drop of $463 per student;
• The FY 2012 budget dropped the BSAPP from $3,937 to $3,780, under the Brownback administration, to balance the budget without raising taxes on Kansans for the second year in a row (budget for FY 2011 relied on sales tax increase);
• For the current fiscal year, FY 2013, the Legislature added $40 million to the BSAPP. School districts will receive an additional $60 per student as a result

There is no question Kansas public education is among the highest priorities of the Legislature. Our schools offer a wide range of programs, taught by some of the best educators in the nation and we realize the importance of ensuring this proud tradition continues. Over the past two sessions, the Kansas House has remained focused on keeping education a priority by striking a delicate balance between conservative, pro-growth economic policies while ensuring Kansas schools continue to thrive.

Over the past two sessions, the primary focus of the Kansas House of Representatives has been creating jobs and strengthening the state’s economy. One of the best ways we could encourage job and economic growth was through passing broad scale tax policies aimed at reducing the tax burden on Kansas taxpayers. Increased revenues and a return to responsible budgeting practices resulted in a significant balance in the state bank account, providing us with the opportunity to give Kansans back some of their hard earned money.

• Under the new tax policy every hardworking Kansan who gets a paycheck will see an increase in their take home pay in January;
• Because of the doubling of the “Head of Household” standard deduction (from $4,500 to $9,000), 20,000 single parents will pay no state income tax;
• 98% of Kansas businesses employee 100 employees or less. Eliminating the state income tax on small business owners will leave them more to invest in their workers, machinery and communities;
• Nearly 96% of small business owners in Kansas make less than $200,000. Breakdown of 191,000 small business owners:
• About 53% of small business owners report less than $50,000 federal adjusted gross income;
• 70% report less than $75,000 in federal adjusted gross income;
• 82% report less than $100,000 in federal adjusted gross income;
• 95.5% report less than $200,000 in federal adjusted gross income; and
• 4.5% report more than $200,000 in federal adjusted gross income;
• The median Kansas tax return uses the standard deduction, has annual income of $65,430, and is filed married jointly with one child. This family will see a state income tax reduction of $572.43 per year, plus savings from the 6/10 of a cent sales tax sunset already in statute.
• A typical head of household tax filer with annual income of $20,000 and one child will see a state income tax reduction of $43.75 per year, plus savings from the 6/10 of a cent sales tax sunset already in statute.
• A typical single tax filer with annual income of $17,600 and no child will see a state income tax reduction of $27 per year, plus savings from the 6/10 of a cent sales tax sunset already in statute.
• The Governor had said he will protect funding for the state’s core services including K-12 education, Medicaid and public safety. However, there are things agencies can do to reduce costs and streamline their offices without impacting services. The administration has asked state agencies to prepare contingency budget plans should something happen to the country and world economies beyond our control;
• As in previous years, agencies are submitting 3 budgets: current spending; enhancements and spending reductions. The administration is preparing for all scenarios. Sequestration is a real possibility. Those automatic federal spending cuts will impact Kansas. Federal economy continues to struggle. Europe economy continues to hang by a very thin thread. If it falls off the cliff, Kansas will feel the impact.
• Total state funding for schools in FY2013 is at the second highest level in state history.

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HAVE YOU EVER HELD ELECTIVE OFFICE? - Yes

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN APPOINTED TO SERVE ON A BOARD OR TASK FORCE? - YES -

U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy, Judge

Kansas Republican Party, Executive Committee Member

Kansas Young Republicans, Chairman

Young Republican National Federation, Campaign Committee Member

Partnership for Technology Innovation, Advisory Board Member

Small Business Coalition for Equitable Health Insurance, Communication Director

Small Business Coalition for Tax Equity, Communication Director

POSITION STATEMENT:

The 69th District of Salina is where I was born and raised and it would be an honor to serve as your State Representative. I’m J.R. Claeys and I’m a fifth-generation Kansan. I graduated from Salina Catholic Schools and Kansas State University. While working my way through college I worked here in Salina for KSAL News and Hassman Termite & Pest Control.

Mark Hassman taught me about how a small business works and the long days and hard work it takes to be successful. My career has been in business advocacy, working for the National Small Business Association and with the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy. I’ve testified on behalf of small businesses before Congressional Committees and Commissions in Washington, D.C. I’m also endorsed by the Kansas Chamber of Commerce for my work on behalf of small businesses in Kansas and across the country. We cannot tax ourselves into prosperity. I believe in reducing the tax burden on working families and small businesses.

My mother is a first-grade teacher, my brother, a school psychologist; I come from a family of educators in both public and private schools; K-12 and post-secondary educators. My commitment to Salina’s public schools and our Universities is strong. As a businessman, I know that an educated and qualified workforce is vital to a growing economy and the future of our state.

I currently serve as a member of the Kansas Republican Party State Executive Committee and as the Chairman of the Kansas Young Republicans. In 2011, I graduated from the Kansas Republican Leadership Series. I’ve also worked in fundraising for the Republican National Committee.

I’ve received the endorsements of the Kansas Chamber of Commerce and Kansans for Life. I’m a gun owner and member of the NRA.

I pledge to work hard for you every day as your representative, to listen to your concerns and advocate for the city of Salina first. Learn more about me at JoinJR.com.

I’d appreciate your vote for J.R. Claeys for State Representative on August 7th.

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HAVE YOU EVER HELD ELECTIVE OFFICE? - No

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN APPOINTED TO SERVE ON A BOARD OR TASK FORCE? - Yes -

City of Salina Building Advistory Board

POSITION STATEMENT:

I am Diana Dierks, your republican candidate for the Kansas House of Representatives for the 71st District.

My roots run deep in Kasnas soil. My great, great grandparents where some of the first pioneers to arrive in the Marquette, Kansas area. I met my husbandm Heinz, in Sailna while my father was working at Schilling Air Force Base. We were married here at the University Methodist Chruch in 1961. I love my hometown and appreciate the chances to serve it citizens.

As as Salina real estate broker for 13 years, the focus of my career has been helping others achieve their goals. Durniing my business career, I have done my best to build my clients' trust in making one of the most important decisions in their lives, buying a home. As your representative, I want to continue to build that trust by doing what is in the best interests of my constituents and the state of Kansas.

I have held serveral leadership positions during my career. Past President of the Salina Board of Realtors - Past President of the Salina MLS Board - 2012 President of the Kansas Chapter of the Council of Residential Specialists (top 8% of realtors) - Vice Chair Saline County Republican Party - City of Salina Building Advisory Board - Awarded Salina's Civitan of the year

I have always given my complete commitments and service to those I represent. I will continue to do so as your representative. I believe in responsible government. I pledge to you that I will give my full dedication to the job of representing the 71st district and will be available to my constituents. I believe the key issues in the upcoming 2013 session will be: taxation, the budget and k-12 eduction. With your support, I am prepared to meet the challenges ahead.

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HAVE YOU EVER HELD ELECTIVE OFFICE? - Yes

I have served on the USD 306 Southeast of Saline School Board for 7 years

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN APPOINTED TO SERVE ON A BOARD OR TASK FORCE? - YES -

I am currently a board member for Schools for Quality Education, a small school advocacy group; I have served in the past on the boards of the Salina Public Library, the Salina YWCA, and the Domestic Violence Association of Central Kansas.

POSITION STATEMENT:

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HAVE YOU EVER HELD ELECTIVE OFFICE? - Yes

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN APPOINTED TO SERVE ON A BOARD OR TASK FORCE? - YES -

President of the Womens Shriner's 2011 to 2012

Secretary/Treasure for the State of Kansas for LULAC for 2009-2010

United Way board 2010 to present

Greater Salina Community Foundation 2011-2012

Planning Commission 2006-2010. The Truancy board 2005-2010

Lady in Black

Salina citizen 2011

POSITION STATEMENT:

Before I decided to run for Commissioner I knew many years prior I had to learn how Saline County operated. That is why I became involved with the Planning Commission to see how each department intertwines with each other. My other passion in Salina is keeping children in school. So I got involved with the Truancy board to help in that area working along side teachers, principals and counselors. Being involved with the many organizations have shown me that we have a community that gives back to one another. Running for County Commissioner I can continue to give back the way my fellow Saline County residents do. If elected I would first like to put on the agenda a pay cut for the County Commissioners. The Salina Commissioners make $3,600 a year versus $39,000 while the Salina Commissioner run a budget 3x's that of Saline County. This will help balance the budget, fix a road for our farmers or any other expenditure we see fit. Serving as County Commissioner would be an honor and I would be there to listen and care. I would appreciate your vote in August and November.

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HAVE YOU EVER HELD ELECTIVE OFFICE? - No

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN APPOINTED TO SERVE ON A BOARD OR TASK FORCE? - No -

POSITION STATEMENT:

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HAVE YOU EVER HELD ELECTIVE OFFICE? - Yes

Elected to Extension Council ex. Board

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN APPOINTED TO SERVE ON A BOARD OR TASK FORCE? - YES -

4-H Program development Fund

POSITION STATEMENT:

As a fourth generation Kansan I have a great appreciation and understanding of rural Saline County. My great grandparents and grandparents owned and worked farms in the Falun area. My dad owned a grocery store in Falun and my mom cooked at both the Falun and Smolan Grade Schools. I learned at an early age the importance of hard work and diligence to the bottom line.

When my husband, Glenn, and I were married he was in the Air Force and we traveled and lived in many towns and cities the size of Salina, so I also understand the needs of urban city dwellers. After twenty five years of military life and raising our family, we chose to return to Saline County. It was, and always will be, our home.

I understand the importance of fiscal responsibility and daily attention to every dollar earned and spent. I believe that family security and well being comes first. This means protecting the ability to own and work your own land, insure a good education for your children and secure a well paying job. We can do this with the right leadership. As a Saline County Commissioner I will focus on protecting our tax dollars and overseeing the proper expenditures for the most important and needed programs. I will work to cut costs without cutting core services, starting with County Commissioners salaries. Being a commissioner is about serving the people, not having a part time job, that at the current rate pays more than some residents make with their full time jobs. This is not responsible leadership.

Government is funded through taxation. We all pay taxes of some sort. Either state and federal income taxes, property taxes or sales taxes. With the new state mandated reduction of income taxes, our property and sales taxes will surely be increased if we are to maintain our roads and bridges and other necessary services. Our school districts and medical services will be receiving less state funding. We will all have to work together to help one another, to continue to care for our people and our community. I believe that I can bring new and innovative ideas to help promote our economic growth and well being. With a vibrant economy more families and businesses will be attracted to Saline County, and because of that, our taxes will be kept at a minimum.

I will be privileged and honored to serve you and the citizens of Saline County. Thank you for your vote.

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HAVE YOU EVER HELD ELECTIVE OFFICE? - No

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN APPOINTED TO SERVE ON A BOARD OR TASK FORCE? - No

POSITION STATEMENT:

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HAVE YOU EVER HELD ELECTIVE OFFICE? - Yes

Past President of Kansas County Clerks and Election Officials Association

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN APPOINTED TO SERVE ON A BOARD OR TASK FORCE? - YES -

Federal Election Assistance Commission Standards Board, Federal Technical Guidelines Development Committee for elections in conjunction with the National Institute of Standards & Technology; Secretary of State task forces for SAFE Act Implementation for ID and Election Voter Information System (ELVIS)

POSITION STATEMENT:

When I was appointed to this office in January of 2000 by Governor Graves, I set a goal of making the Saline County Clerks office the best in the state. With the great staff in the Clerk’s office I believe I have attained that goal. My whole career has been in customer service and I strive to give the best customer service possible, and wish to continue that. I have conducted 25 successful elections since being appointed in 2000. I selected and implemented new voting machines in 2006 and have used them since that time in every election. I have done many voter outreach presentations in the past several years, such as Heusner Elementary with 67 2nd graders, Lakewood Middle School with voting machines ( 700 students), South High School Homecoming Queen elections, Constitution Day at KWU and Brown Mackie, Adult Education programs, and Central high School

The Clerks duties are wide and varied and are outlined 992 times in Kansas statutes

wish to continue as the County Clerk and Election Officer and ask for your vote on Nov. 6 Thank you for your vote and continued confidence

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HAVE YOU EVER HELD ELECTIVE OFFICE? - Yes

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN APPOINTED TO SERVE ON A BOARD OR TASK FORCE? - YES -

Convention & Tourism Committee for 10 years

POSITION STATEMENT:

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HAVE YOU EVER HELD ELECTIVE OFFICE? - Yes

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN APPOINTED TO SERVE ON A BOARD OR TASK FORCE? - YES -

POSITION STATEMENT:

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HAVE YOU EVER HELD ELECTIVE OFFICE? - YES

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN APPOINTED TO SERVE ON A BOARD OR TASK FORCE? - YES -

I have served on the Domestic Violence Association of Central Kansas board, the Central Kansas Foundation (CKF) board, Saline/Saline County Local Emergency Planning board, the 12TH & 28TH Judicial District Community Corrections advisory board, Salina/Saline County Law Enforcement Advisory Committee, Salina Municipal Credit Union board, Crisis Hotline board, District Chairman for Three Rivers District of Boy Scouts of America, Babe Ruth Baseball League, Coalition for Prevention of Drug Abuse, Salina/Saline County Crime stoppers board, Salina/Saline County E-911 board (Communications), the I-135/I-70 Drug Task Force board, Education Planning committee for Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center representing Kansas Sheriff’s Association and District #2 Alternate for the Kansas Sheriff’s Association Board of Directors.

POSITION STATEMENT:

As Sheriff I believe the agency has continually improved during the years of my administration by staying abreast of technological changes and implementing what we could into the operation of the agency. I believe the Sheriff’s Office provides the services that our citizens expect and deserve. My door is always open for citizens to drop in and visit or to discuss a concern/problem they have.

The philosophy I hope I have imparted to the employees of the Sheriff’s Office is that when a citizen asks for our assistance we do everything possible to help them resolve their problem or concern and find the information for them that they a seeking. Never tell a citizen who is asking for our help that it is not our problem, help them find a solution and give them guidance as to where they can go to get the proper help. Our mission is to serve the citizens of this area in a professional manner, provide security and safety and always provide a mechanism for them to ask for help.

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HAVE YOU EVER HELD ELECTIVE OFFICE? - No

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN APPOINTED TO SERVE ON A BOARD OR TASK FORCE? - YES -

President of MLK Child Development Center

POSITION STATEMENT:

My name is Johnna Vosseller and I am running for Saline County Treasurer. I attended Kansas State University and received a B.B.A. in Accounting and Finance and a minor in Economics. My husband and I own Don’s Hobby Shop. I am a CPA and currently work at Swindoll, Janzen, Hawk, and Loyd, LLC and have previously worked at Kennedy and Coe, LLC.

As a current resident and business owner in Saline County, I have a vested interest in making our county the best it can be. I am an experienced CPA, with an extensive accounting and bookkeeping background that includes small business, not-for-profit, governmental and fund accounting. I have the necessary experience that the Treasurer's office requires, including reconciling accounts, preparing budgets, and tax and regulatory reporting. I have developed my leadership skills as President of MLK Child Development Center’s Board of Directors and owning our own business and helping others run and manage their businesses. Leading audit teams and managing my own tax clients has developed my time management and supervisory skills. I will serve Saline County with independence and integrity, in a fiscally conservative and resourceful manner.

There are two big issues facing the treasurer’s office. First, as local budgets have grown tighter and school districts face mounting financial challenges, the responsibility of the Saline County Treasurer has multiplied. The County Treasurer faces growing pressures from local districts to expedite the tax collection process and increase efforts to collect on delinquent taxes. In essence, the faster the Treasurer collects and accounts for revenue, the faster the districts receive the funds.

To speed up this process, as Treasurer, I will expand and promote the Treasurer’s escrow program for property tax payments. This will help those who have paid off their homes to have a monthly payment plan for their property taxes, instead of the large bi-annual payments. This will speed up the payment process and cut down on delinquent taxes.

The second issue facing the Saline County Treasurer is managing the county's reserve funds. These reserves are a source of revenue for the General Fund. As a result, the County Treasurer is continually balancing the security of these investments with pressures from County Commissioners, School Board Members and others to maximize the return on the investments.

As Treasurer, I will draw on my independence and integrity to uphold the rules laid out by the State of Kansas for municipal investing. I will invest these reserves in a conservative manner maintaining the highest possible return on investment and will not be swayed by any good intended pressures. Maintaining increased returns on investments could mean potential tax savings for Saline County residents.

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HAVE YOU EVER HELD ELECTIVE OFFICE? - Yes

10 years as a Board of Education member of the U.S.D. #305 School District, Republican Committeeman in the 28th Prescient.

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN APPOINTED TO SERVE ON A BOARD OR TASK FORCE? - YES -

Salina Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

POSITION STATEMENT:

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