A fantastic slate

To the editor: I am writing to inform the voters of Pike County about the fantastic slate of candidates the Republican ticket offers in the upcoming Nov. 6 election. From top to bottom the ticket is stacked with genuine people who either wish to serve or wish to continue to serve the good people of Pike County. At the top, voters will see the names of Harry Forbes and Rich Caridi as candidates for Pike County Commissioners. Both have served flawlessly together as they continue to be dedicated to keeping taxes low, and getting more money via state and federal grants coming to Pike County. For Pike County Judge, Greg Chelak’s varied experience in law will serve him, and us well in that position. Down the ballot, the names may not be as easily recognized. But, the sterling qualities which the top offers are nonetheless the same. For the position of Treasurer, voters will see the name of John Gilpin. Gilpin has served as president of the Pike County Tax Collector’s and currently serves as Acting Treasurer. His background in Finance and Management has allowed him to hit the ground running since taking over the duties of Treasurer, and he will undoubtedly keep that pace going. For Prothonotary, Clerk of the Courts, and Clerk of the Orphan’s Court, Denise Fitzpatrick deserves your vote. Her experience as Deputy Prothonotary under Joyce Helms will serve Pike County well, especially with the expansion of the court. For Register of Wills and Recorder of Deeds, a vote is due Sharon Schroeder. Her unique background in business having worked in the field of title searching will allow for a smooth transition come next year. For District Attorney, the choice is clear. Ray Tonkin, currently the First Assistant District Attorney, has proven himself in the courtroom time and time again. He has fought for the victims and delivered results. Again, with the expansion of the courts along with a growing population, the people of Pike County need someone who will head a District Attorney’s office which will be able to prosecute an expanding and demanding caseload; Ray Tonkin fits the bill. For the position of Coroner, voters will see a familiar name, Kevin Stroyan. Stroyan has selflessly devoted himself to the county as its Coroner, receiving calls any time of day and any day of the week. He has earned your vote. For Auditor, Tom Foran and Ann Seaman have provided capable management of accounting records for the county and oversaw the transition from paper to computer. When you go out to vote on Nov. 6 and are asked to vote Republican, don’t think of that as a partisan vote. The candidates all the way down the ballot are genuine public servants dedicated to the common good. Vote Republican on Election Day, Nov. 6. Zachary Pearce Westfall