Published: July 11, 2006 11:52 pm         

Local candidates speak on issues

After those seeking state positions were given their three minutes to speak at Tuesday’s Republican rally, candidates for state House District 41 and county commissioner also were afforded the chance to speak.

District 41 candidate Mike Reed opened by saying he was not a native Oklahoman but was in the state “by choice.”

Reed said he believes in protecting children from all sorts of predators. He also said he is “against abortion.”

“I love Oklahoma,” Reed said. “It’s now my state, my chosen state.”

Paul Denny opened by saying he’d been asked to run about six weeks ago.

“Our teachers have been lied to too often,” Denny said.

Citing education as a major issue, Denny demanded there be more credibility in the Legislature.

“We need to get more credibility in our Legislature,” he said. “We need to do it by saving our teachers.”

Tim Vanover, agriculture education instructor at Waukomis, said he’d listened to those he met while campaigning and knew what they wanted.

“I’ve listened. To be a good educator you have to listen.” Vanover. “I will continue to fight for more roads and bridges. I will provide technology in their children’s classrooms.”

John Enns quickly cut tensions as he wheeled near the stage.

“You might notice something different about me than the other candidates,” Enns said, gesturing to his wheelchair. “I’m going bald.”

The room erupted with laughter.

A farmer and former educator, Enns said his stubbornness and tenacity would suit him well for the District 41 position.

“I will fight for education. I will fight for the farmer,” he said. “I will fight for you.”

District 3 County Commissioner Scott Savage said in his term as a commissioner, $3.3 million has been spent on roads and bridges in Garfield County.

“Zero percent of that money came from county funds,” Savage said. “We’ve far exceeded our expectations. We’ve built our 198-bed jail, and our fairgrounds are running well.”

Danny Milacek, who is challenging Savage for the seat, said he believes county roads and bridges still need more work, despite the progress Savage touted.

“Garfield County needs to strive on new businesses,” Milacek said, arguing road and bridge improvements could bolster the county’s economy.

“We need money to help the county and help the cities out,” he said. “I feel I have the quality and effort to support you.”