The following contested races will appear on the general election ballot.

Channel 4 sent questionaires to every candidate on the ballot, and received these replies. They are presented verbatim as they were received.

Scroll down past the ad to read about the candidates in contested races for Florida House and Senate races in northeast Florida.

FLORIDA SENATE - District 1

District stretches from the old core city of Jacksonvlle to the southeast into central and western St. Johns County, western Flagler county and a tip of northern Volusia County.

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Tony Hill Sr. Candidate Survey

Anthony C. "Tony" Hill Sr.

PARTY: Democratic

AGE: 51

FAMILY: Wife: Pat; Children: Anthony,Cicely, Tiffany, Eryn; Grandchildren: Shawn, Dari'elle, Justice, and Raekwon

OCCUPATION: Service Employees Int'l Union (SEIU)

EDUCATION:

Jean Ribault High School, Jacksonville, Fl; Lincoln University,Lincoln, Pa.; Nat'l Labor College, Silver Spring, Maryland, B.A. Degree in Labor Studies, Honorary Doctorate, Edward Waters College. Senator Hill's education and service extends throughout his labor career. He began his labor career in 1975 as a Longshoreman with ILA Local 1408, Jacksonville. He is the former Secretary-Treasurer of the Florida AFL-CIO, having been first elected in 1995, and subsequently re-elected; he served until 2001. In April of 2001, he was honored with the esteemed position of Secretary-Treasurer Emeritus with the Florida AFL-CIO.

In September of 2001, because of his extraordinary commitment and service to the labor movement, Tony Hill was inducted into the AFL-CIO's Florida Labor Hall of Fame and presented with the A. Philip Randolph Award. He is the first African-American to receive this prestigious honor.

He considers his 30 year membership at the Macedonia Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Florida to be one his greatest learning experiences. Currently he teaches a class for adults about faith.

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE:

Tony Hill was elected in 1992 to the Florida House of Representatives, Dist.14, and subsequently re-elected, unopposed, for three consecutive terms. He served on several House committees, including Environmental Protection, Regulated Services, Civil Justice Council, Health and Human Services Appropriations.

Senator Tony Hill was elected to the Florida Senate in November 2002, and re-elected without opposition for a four year term in 2004. During the 2004 election he served as Florida's Statewide Co-Chair for the Minimum Wage Initiative (Amendment 5).

SENATE COMMITTEES: Community Affairs, Domestic Security, Regulated Industries (Vice Chair), Transportation and Economic Development Appropriations and Joint Legislative Auditing Committee.

While serving as Vice Chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Senator Hill worked with the Florida Department of Agriculture and the Florida Conference of Black State Legislators to create an African American Awareness Campaign. This campaign is committed to raising the awareness of obesity related health problems among African Americans and other minorities and encourages a lifestyle which includes a healthy diet and exercise. He is the first Florida legislator to receive the prestigious Black Legislator Award from the Conference of Black State Legislators.

Senator Hill continues to work on behalf of workers’ rights. An example: Senator Hill, along with many of his colleagues, passed legislation to ensure the protection of migrant farm workers from harmful pesticides and unfair labor practices. The successful legislation made a huge difference in labor practices. Now migrant workers no longer must work in fields just sprayed with pesticides, an unthinkable practice.

Senator Hill currently serves as a Community Organizer for the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). He was the Chair of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators' Labor Round Table, and Vice Chair of the Florida Conference of Black State Legislators.

Hill has been honored with such prestigious awards as the NAACP Adam Clayton Powell Civil Rights Award, Rainbow/PUSH Coalition Freedom Fighter Award, Florida Democratic Party's Ron H. Brown Award, A. Phillip Randolph Achievement Award, Rosemary Barkett Award from the Florida Academy of Trial Lawyers, and the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists' Cleveland Robinson Award. In December of 2000, he was honored as Chairman-Emeritus of the Labor and Management Committee of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators. In January of 2002, Hill was the recipient of the Lincoln-Douglass Emancipation Proclamation Association's Eartha M. White Service Award and the National AFL-CIO's Government Service Award, making him the first labor member in Florida to receive the honor. He has been selected twice as the Omega Citizen of The Year by the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and is the Co-founder of the Florida Omega Psi Phi Fraternity's Annual Political Action Summit. In 2004, the Sierra Club honored him as the Environmental Legislator of the Year. Since then, he has received other prestigious awards.

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?

1. ECONOMY AND JOBS
   Let's utilize Florida Resources to create new jobs! America is paying a price at the pump for refusal to produce a modern alternative energy market. We face the staggering economic reality of life in an age of expensive oil. But high prices at the pump mean that Floridia has a unique opportunity! Now is the time to win Florida’s citizens over to fun Florida vacations, using the wholesome, exciting system of Florida’s State Parks. We’ll create jobs and increase revenue. My plan:
   (a) People travel from around the world to vacation in Florida. Now, with the increase in gas prices, more Floridians are taking advantage of Florida’s award-winning park system. We must seize this moment! This year 20 million people visited Florida’s Parks System. I have a vision to develop Florida’s exciting recreation resources for Florida Green Vacations, including Florida Historic and Cultural Vacations. I propose a Florida Trails Program which could include a Nature and Health Trail, an Indian Cultural Trail, and an African-American Trail. Each of these would produce a living, breathing history of Florida’s exciting past. Development and management of the heritage trails would create thousands of good jobs. Florida’s Green Lodging properties could be located conveniently along the way.
   (b) I propose that Florida have a Florida Secretary of Tourism and Hospitality to expand tourism programs, create new jobs, and increase state revenue. Agriculture and tourism are Florida’s top money makers. We have a Secretary of Agriculture. It makes sense to have a Secretary of Tourism focused on developing and promoting innovative tourist attractions, especially for Florida’s citizens. We must seize this opportunity and encourage Florida citizens to vacation here in Florida.
   According to Florida’s tourism research team, Florida is the top travel destination in the world. Tourism in Florida currently employees about a million workers and has a multi-billion dollar economic impact. We’re only seeing the “tip of the iceberg.” With focused leadership under a Secretary of Tourism, I believe we can produce millions more in revenue for our state while creating new jobs.
   (c) Develop Florida’s Cultural and Historic Trails. We cannot let Florida tourism deteriorate to a second class industry. Opportunity is knocking at our door! More people are discovering “ancestry vacations” to learn about family or cultural histories. A Florida African American Heritage Trail would present an incredibly comprehensive, positive, and realistic “ancestor heritage” experience for our youth and for travelers from around the world. Another great vacation experience could be a Florida Indian Heritage Trail. It also would preserve the history of a determined people who survived incredible odds. Live reenactments of historic events would tell a fascinating story. Today’s youth should know this heritage, identify with it, and be inspired by it.
   Let’s envision a Florida African American Heritage Trail. It would stretch through Florida’s award-winning state park system. It begins with our northern-most hills and wetlands, continues through central Florida, and travels to Florida’s southern tip. Under the supervision of Florida’s Department of Parks and Recreation, it would encompass many of Florida’s historic jewels such as the Kingsley Plantation, American Beach, Fort Mose (in 1738 was a settlement for freed Africans), and Eatonville with its lively stories of writer Zora Neale Hurston. This rich African American experience would travel to exciting events and sites in Tampa, Miami, and the Keys. Along the way, artist renderings, museums, and live stage events would highlight this great history. From south Florida, visitors could connect to the Caribbean Islands, Bermuda, or other African American historic destinations. State management of the historic trail would “keep it green.”
2. HEALTH CARE, EDUCATION, AND JUVENILE JUSTICE – OVERCOMING THE REAL ISSUES OF CRIME
   We choose our choices, but we can’t choose our consequences. We must utilize every resource to ensure that our troubled children have a chance for a positive lifestyle. Florida’s state park system offers exciting outdoor programs that can be used to teach our youth about nature with walking tours designed for fun and education. As children learn about nature, history, and culture in real life settings, they will learn more about this awesome world and how it relates to their lives. They also will learn about healthy natural foods and the importance of a nourishing diet. Outdoor hikes will strengthen them in body and mind. Perhaps the park system could partner with the school system to provide students with nature and history classes and hikes.
   Such “partnering” is the answer to reaching so many children. We must rescue our troubled youth and cut the rate of recidivism! We need a comprehensive “lifeline for at-risk children and teens.” We can link health care agencies, state park systems, churches, fraternities, Masonic families, the Mayor’s office, state and federal agencies, community leaders, and private foundations to a common “rescue” goal. Why not have a “1000 Friends of Florida’s At-Risk Youth?” It will take a lot of people working hard to turn around the desperation of many of our youth. Recently the renowned editor and author Susan Taylor announced that she is leaving Essence Magazine to build a National Mentoring Movement which she founded as Essence Cares. Essence Cares is a program to encourage black adults to mentor at-risk youth while advocating a better education system. Right here in Florida, we need such programs; and we need to strengthen or reinstate partnerships that work for our youth.
   Through leadership, advocacy, and hard work, we can provide the necessary resources to mentor our youth and secure our communities. Access to excellent health care is vital for teens, as it is for all our citizens. The growing number of teens with sexually transmitted diseases is alarming, especially in black communities. Unhealthy teens are in desperate need of good health care and health care education. Working together, we can give our youth hope and a new direction. We can teach them about the importance of good heath and healthy lifestyles. We can teach them to treat their bodies with respect and not to harm others.
   Education is another vital key for successful communities. Our over-burdened school system must partner with other organizations so that at-risk students can meet their full potential. When their grades began to drop, they need immediate access to knowledgeable tutors and counselors. Some of our brightest students likely leave school early, discouraged and dismayed, because they have no mentors except those on the street. They take to the streets before they are able to envision a legitimate, successful life for themselves. This must stop. It is a cycle of poverty and violence that destroys portions of our communities and lowers state-wide productivity.
3. FORECLOSURES AND LENDING INSTITUTIONS
   Most states have their own foreclosure laws, and this is true of Florida. In general, the foreclosure process happens when the homeowner misses a payment or two. The bank then notifies the homeowner that they now are in the foreclosure process. The bank or other lender files suit in a Florida court and the home is sold, generally at a much reduced price. The homeowner is stuck with paying back the larger loan amount.
   In this current foreclosure disaster, lenders need to back up and back off. To date, the foreclosure process greatly favors the lender. New laws need to be written favoring the customer (homeowner.) Florida’s “30 day grace period” should be extended in law to 60 or 90 days. We must reassess property values and establish the lower home price for the benefit of the homeowner. This is known as “moderation.” Homeowners should be familiar with this term and be able to restructure loans accordingly.
   Transparency and clarity in the process is needed for clear and honest processing of loans. The customer should be required to take a brief “buying a house” course acquainting the customer with confusing words and phrases in contracts used by lenders and brokers.

HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
I've battled for Florida workers for over three decades. Voters trust my experience, my deep faith, and my unwavering commitment to creating good jobs that benefit Florida workers and families. My vast experience gives me a multifaceted view of our challenges and how to solve them. Florida’s workers and families are my passion; I fight for them daily. Now, in changing times, I’m joining new ideas to past experience. My dedication to “Green Initiatives Industries” will make Florida a leader in new systems, technologies, and processes while providing great jobs for local and global markets. Growing our tourism industry will bring greater revenue to Florida. We must not let tourism slip to a second rate Florida industry.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
I want to be remembered as a voice in the Florida House of Representatives and in the Florida Senate for working families. I want to be remembered as a voice for those who had no voice, for creating good jobs, and for representing the rights of workers, families, and our at-risk population. Daily, I’m reminded of that parent who takes the early bus, works all day, and arrives home to care for children. My job is all about helping people.

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: under construction

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Louis Tart

PARTY: Constitution

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.louistart.com

WJXT/News4Jax.com has not received a response from this candidate.

FLORIDA SENATE - District 3

District stretches from Baker and northern Columbia counties southwest to the Gulf of Mexico and south to Levy and Citrus counties.

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Charles Dean PARTY: Republican Incumbent

Suzan L.R. Franks PARTY: Democratic

WJXT/News4Jax.com has not received a response from either candidate in the District 3 race.

FLORIDA SENATE - District 5

This district covers most of Nassau County, western Duval County and Mandarin, northern Clay County and northwestern St. Johns County.

George Anthony Lovenguth

PARTY: Democratic

WJXT/News4Jax.com has not received a response from this candidate.

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Stephen R. Wise

PARTY: Republican

AGE: 66

FAMILY: Married 45 years 2 daughters Kelly, Tara and 4 grandchilren

OCCUPATION: Retired State of Florida 1993 and now own Stephen Wise Consulting Inc.

EDUCATION: BS. Florida Southern College, 1963; M.Ed Middle Tennessee State University, 1968. Ed.D. University of Alabama, 1970

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: 1988-2000 elected to the Florida House; 2001 - present elected to the Florida Senate

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?

1. Education
2. Health Care
3. Taxes

HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
There is an element of experience that I have obtained over the years. In the early 70's I interned in Congressman Bennett's office in Washington D.C. and learned not only how public servants delivered constitutent services in a timely fashion but how to determine what can be changed and what is not possible to change. Most ideas or laws that I have initated were a direct result of constitutent requests or issues that the constitutents had that made no logical sense but were being blindly adminstered because it was the law or a department rule. I follow the Golden Rule... If that constitutent's problem was happening to me, what would I expect my representative or senator to do?

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
That I provided constitutent services for individuals that were having difficulties with government red tape and worked to resolve their issues fairly. That I proposed and passed legislation to create the Personal Care Attendent program for the disabled, created the Marchman Act which was the development of the current drug laws for both juveniles and adults and lastly the creation of the ABLE trust that provides funding for disabled individuals that want to be trained and who want to obtain employment or need assistance in obtain work.

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: electstevewise.com

FLORIDA SENATE - District 7

This district stretches from southern Clay and eastern Putnam counties into parts of Marion and Volusia counties.

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Evelyn Lynn Candidate Statement

Evelyn J. Lynn

PARTY: Republican

AGE: DOB 2/2/30

FAMILY: Widow, two grown children

OCCUPATION: State Senator

EDUCATION: New York Public Schools; Queens College, N.Y., B.A.; Stetson University, M.A.; University of Florida, Ed.D.

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Florida Senator, 6 years; State Representative, 8 years; Ormond Beach City Commissioner, 3 years

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?

1. Economy/jobs
2. High property taxes and insurance rates
3. Funding for education-K-12 and higher education.

HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THAT THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
At a time when Florida is in a severe economic downturn, it is imperative to have a State Senator with budgeting experience, proven leadership and a record of accomplishments. I have a legislative record of making difficult but wise decisions in challenging times.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
Constituent Service. Leadership in education K-20. Advocacy for substance abuse prevention and for the arts

CAMPAIGN CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.evelynlynn.com

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Richard Paul Dembinsky

PARTY: No Party Affiliation

Candidate declined the opportunity to make a video statement and returned WJXT/News4Jax.com's candidate survey with "refused submittal" to each question and the following two statements:

"You are not authorized to post any information about Richard Paul Dembinsky.

"The Preamble of the State of Florida Constitution "guarantees equal civil and political rights" This means if someone wants to place there name on the ballot there is absolutely no newspaper or televison station that can do anything about it. The voters should decide without being negatively impacted by media filtered words and media wordturns that only support incumbents."

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: onballot.com

FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES - District 10

This district covers Hamilton, Madison, Taylor and parts of Alachua, Columbia, Dixie, Franklin, Jefferson, Levy, Wakulla counties.

Leonard Bembry

PARTY: Democratic

AGE: 60

FAMILY: rarried 40 years to Susan Register Bembry of Jasper,Fl We have 3 children and 8 grandchildren

OCCUPATION: 37 years as a business owner/General Manager of University Homes, Tallahassee,Fl 35 years as a farmer of cattle, timber and row crops in Greenville, Fl

EDUCATION: received AA degree from North Fl. Community College in Madison Fl. and attended Florida State University

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: [No response]

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?

1. Good and positive economic growth suited for our area in the 10th district.
2. More and better jobs for our area so that we can maintain our young people in our local communities. They are our greatest asset.
3. Protect our educational access and opportunities from budget cuts and tax restructuring.

HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
I have owned and currently operate a retail business and a farming operation. I understand budgeting and good conservative business decisions. I consider my greatest asset to be my ability to negotiate with people and build consensus in a committee environment. I feel this will serve us well in the Fl House of Representatives.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
That I worked hard to represent the people at every oportunity and reflected the values of our district. And that I always cared deeply about the concerns of the people in District 10 and always represented them well.

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.LeonardBembry.com

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Don Curtis

PARTY: Republican

AGE: 53

FAMILY: Married to Michele for 28 years; 2 sons - Ray (26), Clayton (24)

OCCUPATION: Forester

EDUCATION: BS Forest Resources - University of GA

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Appointed by Governor Crist to the Governing Board of the Suwannee River Water Management District; Appointed by Agriculture Commissioner Doyle Conner to be the Assistant Director of the Florida Division of Forestry; President of The Forestry Company, which provides forestry services to landowners across Florida; Former Manager at Procter & Gamble, Buckeye Cellulose

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?

1. Job creation
2. Fuel prices - biofuels development
3. Work Force Development (Education

HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THAT OTHERS RUNNINF FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
By utilizing my legislative experience gained as Asst. Director of the FL Division of Forestry.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER YOU LEAVE OFFICE?
Being a help to regular working folks.

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.curtis4house.com

FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES - District 11

District covers parts of Alachua, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Lafayette and Suwannee counties.

Debbie Boyd

PARTY: Democratic

AGE: 50

FAMILY: Married to Tommy Boyd, 32 years

OCCUPATION: Legislator. Realtor (inactive). University of Florida, IFAS, research technician, 30 years retired.

EDUCATION: A.A.S. (Building Construction Management), Santa Fe Community College, 2003. A.A., General Education, Santa Fe Community College, 1990.

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: State Representative, District 11, 2006-2008. Commissioner, City of Newberry: elected 2002, re-elected 2004.

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?

1. Economics (with correlation to gas prices).
2. Education.
3. Health Care.

HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
I am a consensus builder with a proven record of working across party lines to effectively represent those who elected me. I am a sixth generation Floridian from our area, a member of a farming family, and have personally been involved in agriculture all of my life. This along with my diverse background and education helps me understand the needs and concerns of our families and businesses.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
Being honest, fair, & respectful and making the best decisions possible to effectively represent the citizens of District 11 and the State of Florida.

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.electdebbieboyd.com

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Elizabeth Porter

PARTY: Republican

AGE: 43

FAMILY: Husband-Andrew, Daughter-Erin(12), Son-Drew(8)

OCCUPATION: Former Columbia County Commissioner

EDUCATION: A.A.-Lake City Community College. B.A.,Communications-Florida State University

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: County Commissioner, Columbia County - 2004 to 2008. Commission Chair, 2006-2007. Republican State Committeewoman, Columbia County. Columbia County REC Chair

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?
For House District 11, I believe the top three issues are:

1. Fuel costs
2. Employment/Industry Recruitment
3. Water issues, i.e. the health of local springs/rivers, bottled water plants, transfer of water to other areas, water available for agri-business.

HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
My work ethic and accessibility, which I was known for on the Columbia County Commission, combined with my extensive business and political experience will enable me to more fully represent the constituents of District 11 with a stronger voice.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
I want to be remembered by the people of District 11 as being a tireless champion of their interests and the best interests of the District while always staying firmly anchored to home, faith and family.

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: voteelizabethporter.com

FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES - District 12

District covers Baker, Bradford, Union and part of Clay, Duval and Nassau counties.

Janet Adkins

AGE: 42

FAMILY: Husband Doug; children Emily & Douglas

OCCUPATION: School Board Member

EDUCATION: Graduated Valedictorian, Trinity Christian Academy; AA Florida Community College at Jacksonville; BS in Information Science from University of North Florida; MBA from University of North Florida

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Nassau County School Board Member since 1998. Republican State Committeewoman for Nassau County since 2000.

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?

1. Create a business climate that will spur small business owners to invest, innovate and become more competitive in rebuilding Florida’s economy.
   We need to reduce regulations that compromise the ability of our small businesses to compete. We need to create strategic empowerment zones as incentives for new and emerging businesses. We need to expand our focus on Florida’s role in the global marketplace. We need to improve our education system so that we will have a competitive and innovative workforce, and we need to use technology to bring down the cost of healthcare.
2. Reform Education - We need to increase the role of technology and consumer preferences in delivering education especially in middle and high schools and community colleges. We must fundamentally rethink our approach to education and how we fund it.
   Expanded use of technology and Internet-based systems will permit students to access better sources of information more rapidly without having to add new buildings and staff.
3. Reduce cost of health care - My direct involvement in my family-owned, assisted-living facility and my service as chair of the local community alliance which dealt with foster care, Medicaid reform and community-based services has given me a unique perspective on the factors that affect healthcare costs. I believe we need to rethink how we fund care, and we need to expand our use of technology in managing health information.

HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
My experience on the School Board and in the private sector has given me a unique perspective on the need for workforce education. It is the key to our ability to compete in the global economy.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
For being a part of the team that got Florida's economy moving again.

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.janetadkins.com

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Damon Fernandez Write-in candidate

Robert Scott Ziefel Write-in candidate

WJXT/News4Jax.com has not received a response from either write-in candidate in the House District 12 race.

FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES - District 14

This district contained in northwest and western Duval County.

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Mia Jones Candidate Statement

Mia Jones

PARTY: Democratic

AGE: 40

FAMILY: Parents: Lawrence and Hannah Jones. Single. No children.

Occupation: Elected Official

Education: She was educated in the Duval County Public School System and graduated from William M. Raines Senior High School (Class of 1986). She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and an MBA in Human Resource Management, both from Florida A & M University (FAMU).

Political Experience: Twice Elected to the Jacksonville City Council

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?

1. Crime Prevention - I have worked with state juvenile justice officials and local law enforcement to ensure the reopening of the Juvenile Assessment Center (JAC). As State Representative, I will support this program and work to ensure that children will receive the necessary evaluation and direction to help them make better life choices. I will support targeted funding for job training based on workforce forecasts, apprenticeship programs and continuing education for Florida's workforce. This will help strengthen our economy and reduce crime.
2. Public Education - I recognize the importance of ensuring that all students receive a quality education. As State Representative, I will work to reduce the significance of the FCAT in grading schools and students. I will also focus attention on the need to increase the allowable drop-out age from 16 to 18 and I will work to increase the VPK Program from four hours to six hours to make a greater difference in preparing little ones for kindergarten.
3. Health Care & Insurance - I believe preventative evaluations are critical to improving healthcare on a long term basis. As State Representative, I will develop a plan to create a Small Business Health Tax Credit which will enable more of Floridians to be covered by health insurance.

HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
I can help the voters because I have already laid the foundation needed for legislative service by building relationships with our current delegation and other legislative members around the state. This puts me in a unique position to bring Jacksonville and North Florida issues to the forefront. Additionally, I have worked to bridge the relationship between local, state and federal entities in order to maximize resources and better serve the needs of my constituents. The fact that I am a consensus builder, will allow the voters that I represent to be heard rather than ignored.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
When I leave office I want to be remembered for my commitment to making positive improvement in my community. I want to be remembered as one who did not seek glorification or notoriety but as one who worked well with others to resolve the problems within our community. Finally, I want to be remembered as one who was persistent even in the face of adversity and driven to succeed on behalf of those who may not have a voice.

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.miajones.org

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Sarah Lovett Candidate Statement

Sarah Lovett

PARTY: Republican

AGE: 31

FAMILY: Wife to Gerorge "Justin" Lovett, Mother to Chloe Marie (5) and George "Zane" (3)

OCCUPATION: SAHM, Owner First Coast Doulas, Coordinator Jax Natural Foods

EDUCATION: 1990-1994 Gibbs Senior High School; 1994-1996 Florida A&M University Associates Degree; 1996-1998 Florida State University B.S in Real Estate

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Precinct Committeewoman- Duval County REC; Political Action Chair- Joseph E. Lee Republican Club; Member-Concerned Taxpayers of Duval County; Legislative Chair-Florida Friends of Midwives; Member-Republican Liberty Caucus of Florida; Director, Acting Secretary-Republican Liberty Caucus of North Florida

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE? I believe the leading issue is the economy which directly correlates to crime rates. Additionally, educational programs need to be tailored to meet District 14's needs.

HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
I believe I offer a fresh perspective on the role of government in our lives and that general pragmatism and common sense will be the solution to many of the issues facing Florida. My background in appraisal and business and my understanding of the economy will go a long way to ensuring Floridians are once again prospering. Our legislators function is actually to inspire leadership and protect the citizens’ freedom to prosper and live their lives.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
After the primaries I will be unveiling my Florida First initiative. Essentially, Florida First is a common sense way to move toward energy independence via energy diversity. It will take the use of home rule to accomplish such a task but I am confident our representatives are up for such a challenge. I want to be remembered as the legislator that inspired Floridians to reinstate their sovereignty which ultimately turned their economy around, bettered education and reduced crime.

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.sarahlovett2008.com

FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES - District 17

This district covers Arlington and North Jacksonville.

Lake Ray Candidate Statement Lake Ray PARTY: Republican

Regina Young Statement Regina Young PARTY: Democratic

John Rosso III Write-in candidate.

WJXT/News4Jax.com has not received a response to our candidate survey from either candidate in the House District 17 race.

FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES - District 18

This district that covers southeastern Duval County, the beaches and northeast St. Johns County.

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Ronald 'Doc' Renuart Statement

Ronald "Doc" Renuart

PARTY: Republican

AGE: 44

FAMILY: Wife: Jackie (Married 20 years); Children: Jennifer, 18, Scarlett, 17, and Ronnie, 13

OCCUPATION: Internal Medicine Physician and Colonel with the Florida Army National Guard

EDUCATION: University of Florida, Bachelor's Degree and Florida Studies Certificate(1986); Nova Southeastern University, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (1990); University of Florida, Internal Medicine Residency (1994)

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Appointed by Gov Jeb Bush to the State Medicaid Pharmaceutical and Therapeutics Committee (2005-2008)Republican Executive Committee of St. Johns County, past president and board member of the Republican Club of Ponte Vedra, Ambassador for the Presidency IV Republican Party of FL.

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?

1. The economy and jobs: We have to get past just worrying about the economy and do something about it:
   - Build needed transportation projects now to kick-start the economy
   - Invest more of the $140 billion state pension fund here at home
   - Cut taxes to make more money available for taxpayers to spend
   - Streamline government regulation that bogs down job-creating businesses
   - Bring property insurers back to Florida to create competition
2. Less government: Government is too big, too complicated, and too expensive.
3. Property taxes and insurance: - Plug the “fees” loophole in tax limits
   - The state took on $28 billion of the insurance companies’ risk, concentrating it here in Florida. We need to spread that risk back out into the global reinsurance market.
   - Bring insurance companies back into the state so we’ll have healthy competition.
   

HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
I’m not a career political insider. As a doctor I spend my days talking to real people with real-world concerns. My views haven’t been shaped by lobbyists and bureaucrats. Like most people in the 18th District, I'm a Ronald Reagan conservative. While I respect other points of view, I am deeply rooted in conservative values. There are many health care and medical issues that the legislature faces every year. My experience and expertise in health care will be invaluable to the State while in office.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
Politicians are too concerned about prestige. I don’t need to be remembered, I want to get the state’s economy moving and solve our transportation problems.

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.VoteDocRenuart.com

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Dave Smith

PARTY: Democratic

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.davesmithforstaterep18.com

WJXT/News4Jax did not receive a response to its questionnaire.

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Daniel (Walshie) Walsh

PARTY: No party affiliation

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: None found

WJXT/News4Jax did not receive a response to its questionnaire.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES - District 19

This district includes parts of Clay, Duval, and St. Johns counties.

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Larry Jones Candidate Statement

Larry Jones

PARTY: Democratic

AGE: 46

FAMILY: Wife: Leslie, son Larry Jr. and his wife Eunice with my 1st grandchild Alexis, son Kyle, and Daughters Ashley and Lindsey

OCCUPATION: Computer Specialist with Duval County School Board

EDUCATION: AS Degree in Computer Programming and Information System and Science from Florida Community College of Jacksonville; Army System Administrator Course; Army Basic Non-Commission Officer Course; Army Primary Leadership Course

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Voting every election, watching elected officials

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?

1. BUDGET - The Florida state budget should provide for 100% accountability, because citizens have a right to know about all the interesting things going on with our tax money, and they should be able to see for themselves the budgeting and spending priorities of their state representatives. As a computer technology specialist, I know there is absolutely no reason why we can't provide the residents of Florida access to a detailed budget down to the lowest dollar lever on a public web site. Not only will this highlight legislators' spending priorities, but it will promote transparency in the budgeting process, and it will reveal turkeys that Florida Tax Watch identifies each year. For example, citing a very tight budget year in 2007, legislators balanced the state’s budget at the expense of constituencies who have little political power, such as low income residents, elderly citizens and children. State legislators skimmed money from the Sadowski Affordable Housing Assistance Trust Fund, cut funding for K-12 and college education, reduced elderly services and dipped into the reserve fund to balance the state’s general operating fund. In spite of much publicized budget cuts, Florida Tax Watch found budget turkeys worth $256 million, for which the legislature did not follow its budgeting policies and which limited “taxpayer accountability and governmental efficiency,” while benefiting a specific few or specific private organizations.
2. EDUCATION - I think Florida's education position is a disgrace. We rank in the BOTTOM FIVE of the 50 United States. In a time when we need to be better educating students in the K-12 schools, we are short changing the student instruction time by teaching how to take the FCAT, holding students back because they don't pass the test, and not providing the educational opportunities kids need to be productive adults in Florida. We need to get rid of the FCAT as a high-stakes, one-size-fits-all criterion to measure students, teachers and schools. We need to offer more instructional time for students, not less. And we need to provide more and better technical training programs to prepare students to go right to work after completing high school, as well as look at innovative plans like in North Carolina where a student can complete a year or college while attending high school, to see how we can improve the quality of our high school graduates and reduce our state's 33% dropout rate. I believe we can do much, much better.
3. ENERGY - Florida ranks third in the nation in energy consumption. Northeast Florida's energy sources include coal, gas, oil and petroleum coke, in additional to a small quantity of solar energy. Other areas of the state also use some nuclear power. These sources of power are becoming more and more expensive and output undesirable byproducts (pollution). I believe Florida should evaluate some innovative high-tech solutions such as manufacturing sugar ethanol; manufacturing and installing solar, wind and wave power equipment; and building electric vehicles here in Florida. And if the state encourages such high-tech ventures, it will also produce high-paying technical jobs that will stay here in Florida.

HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
I'm not beholden to the "same old, same old" local powers that control what is done by political officeholders, so I'm free to research and come up with pertinent and workable solutions to the problems we have. I bring knowledge of technology that I will use to evaluate technology programs and spending in Florida, and to work on making the state's budget visible to Floridians, down to the last dollar.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
I'd like to be the guy who proved that we could straighten out the budget, addressed the state's most critical priorities instead of bowing to political party priorities, and set Florida on a fruitful, long-term, sustainable path to the future.

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: http://www.electlarryjones.com

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Mike Weinstein Candidate Statement

Mike Weinstein

PARTY: Republican

AGE: 59

FAMILY: Wife Sara for 31 years, son Scott, his wife Megan, son Darwl, his wife Mandy, daughter Logan, son Stryder. Daughter Danielle.

OCCUPATION: President of Take Stock in Children Inc.

EDUCATION: B.A. Political Science. M.S. Criminal Justice Administration. A.B.D. Criminology. Juris Doctorate.

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Managed Ed Austin’s campaigns. Ran for Mayor. Public Servent for 25 years.

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?

1. Economy.
2. Education and workforce preparation
3. Government revenue, spending, and accountability.
4. Managing our resources such as water and fossil fuels.

HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THAT OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
The combination of my work experiences (Executive Director of our State Attorney’s Office, Chief Financial Officer for the City, President of our Super Bowl Committee, and Executive Director of our Economic Development Commission) and education will give me the opportunities to ensure the issues of Northeast Florida will be heard, respected and acted upon.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
Hard work and high integrity.

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: electmikeweinstein.com

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES - District 20

This district includes parts of Clay, Flagler, St. Johns counties.

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Doug Courtney Candidate Statement

Doug Courtney

PARTY: Democrat

AGE: 54

FAMILY: Wife: Rhonda Sons: Curtis, Justin

OCCUPATION: Database Designer

EDUCATION: MBA Xavier University, Cincinnati, Ohio BS University of Cincinnati,Cincinnati, Ohio

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Former Candidate, Democratic Chair Congressional District 7, State Democratic Executive Committee, Central Committee member.

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?

1. Economy
2. Education
3. Healthcare

HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
Extensive background and edcuation in finance. With the current and looming budget cuts amounting to 30% of the budget increases in the last 10 years, it will take someone with a background in finance and budgets to make sure the necessary costs are covered.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
positve service to my district and state

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.doug2008.net

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Bill Proctor Candidate Statement

Bill Proctor

PARTY: Republican

AGE: 75

FAMILY: Wife - Pamela Proctor, Son - Samuel Proctor (deceased), Daughter - Priscilla Proctor

OCCUPATION: Flagler College Chancellor

EDUCATION: 1951 - Graduate, Winter Park High School; 1956 - Bachelor of Science, Education, Florida State University; 1964 - Master of Science, Education Administration, Florida State University; 1967 - Graduate Fellowship, Computer-Assisted Instruction and Systems Analysis, Florida State University; 1968 - Doctor of Philosophy, Education Administration, Florida State University

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: City Planning Commission, St. Augustine City Commission, State Legislature (2004-present)

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?

1. Economic Development
2. Education Funding
3. Property and Casualty Insurance

HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
I can better help the constituents of District 20 because of my prior legislative experience, success in passing meaningful legislation, and prior service as Chairman of legislative committees.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
Honorable and effective service.

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.VoteProctor.com

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES - District 21

This district includes Bradford, a portion of Clay and Putnam counties.

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Linda Myers Candidate Statement

Linda Myers

PARTY: Democratic

AGE: 57

FAMILY: Vernon Myers, husband; 2 children, 4 step-children; 7 grandchildren

OCCUPATION: CPA. Owner: Dunkin Donuts. Owner: Baskin Robbins.

EDUCATION: UF: BS, Science major, 1973; UF: BS, Accounting major,1989; Master of Accounting, 1991

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Putnam County Commissioner, 1998-2006; Chairman, Small County Coalition.37 counties

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?

1. The failing economy is a high priority that needs aggressive action as it is daily impacting our families and communities health; which includes spiraling costs and the need for a predictable, sustainable State budget.
2. Our public education system is a top priority, that needs our full attention.
3. The St Johns River and other water ways of Florida, how to assure potable water, protect our natural assets and have a sustainable plan for the future.

HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
Twenty five years of business experience coupled with my CPA experience gives me unique skills that are needed in Tallahassee, most especially given the current financial crisis. We will need legislators with financial experience to plan for a predictable, sustainable and accountable financial system. My 30 years of community advocacy in the district gives me an edge on understanding our communities needs coupled with eight years of public service fighting for those issues. Frankly, living, working and my family growing up in the community provides me with a unique perspective.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
Providing for our families in Florida a better place to live, work and raise a family through hard work, integrity and collaborative efforts with all parties.

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.electlindamyers.com

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Charles Van Zant Candidate Statement

Charles Van Zant

PARTY: Republican

AGE: 64

FAMILY: Married - 8 children

OCCUPATION: Architect

EDUCATION: Bachelor of Architecture; Master of Divinity; Doctorate of Theology

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Clay County Code Board and Clay County School Board

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE TOP THREE ISSUES IN THIS RACE?

1. Primary Job Creation throughout our district. The current financial struggle for basic needs is fragmenting families. This must change.
2. Reducing taxes by reducing government's size and government regulations. Currently, we have a large government that regulates its people. What we must have is a smaller government regulated by the people.
3. Drill the Eastern Gulf of Mexico for oil and gas. Florida must develop our oil and gas reserves and use the royalties and proceeds from taxes on that oil and gas to lower the tax burden for Floridians.

HOW CAN YOU HELP VOTERS IN A WAY THE OTHERS RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE CAN'T?
My legacy as part of district 21 has been ongoing since I was 7 years old. I have served our people by pastoring two of the districts largest churches, counseling with families through their struggles and interacting in our communities with a position good for our citizens. Having served in two public offices, I am experienced at providing leadership for civic change. I understand the people of our six county district and have been able to help them as one of their own.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO BE REMEMBERED FOR AFTER LEAVING OFFICE?
For meeting the needs of the common man with conservation wisdom.

CAMPAIGN WEB SITE: www.vanzant08.com

FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES - District 23

District covers parts of Alachua and Marion counties.

Charles "Chuck" Chestnut PARTY: Democratic Incumbent.

Dernie DeCastro PARTY: Republican

WJXT/News4Jax.com has not received a response from either candidate in the District 23 race.

FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES - District 26

District covers parts of Flagler and Volusia counties.

Barry Flynn PARTY: Democratic

Pat Patterson PARTY: Republican Incumbent.

WJXT/News4Jax.com has not received a response from either candidate in the House District 26 race.