2010 Primary election

Tony Albensi, 42 (Republican)
Oxford
Education: Attended U of M Flint, 1986-1988
Occupation: Software Designer for RGIS, LLC
Government-related experience:
Oxford Village Councilman, 2007 to Present
Republican Precinct Delegate, 2006 to Present
Oakland County Republican Party Executive Committee, 2006 to Present
Republican grassroots activist since 1999
Family (spouse, kids): I married my wife, Jessica, on May 29 of this year. We look forward to starting a family together.
1) I love living in Oxford, and I’ve enjoyed serving on the Village Council. This is where my wife and I intend to raise our family. The future of District 1 is important to us, and to all the people we are fortunate to count as our neighbors and friends.
2) To create a favorable environment for businesses, we need to keep government out of their way. That means keeping taxes low and eliminating unnecessary regulations. It also means maintaining the high quality of our educational institutions so that our workers will remain competitive in the global marketplace.
3) Our citizens work hard for every dollar they earn. As elected officials, we need to think carefully before taking those dollars back out of their pockets. We should not sacrifice the services that are most important to our citizens. However, government must reduce spending and live within its means.
4) Northern Oakland County has a lot to offer. The natural beauty of its waterways and green spaces, its historic landmarks and charming small towns are all priceless attractions. While it’s important to preserve these treasures, we should also showcase them so as to attract visitors and commerce.

Joe Bunting, 33 (Republican)
Oxford Township
Education: Oakland University- B.A. in political science, Schoolcraft College- Associates degree in criminal justice
Occupation: Police Officer
Government Related Experience: Oxford Township Trustee, Oxford Addison Youth Assistance Chairman
Family: Wife-Jennifer, Daughter-Emma and Son-Jake
1) I am running for Oakland County Commissioner to make sure Oakland County continues in the right direction. My goals are to focus on public safety keeping our families and communities safe. I am also determined to attract businesses and developers to make our communities successful with employed families.
2) Focus on the northern-end of Oakland County. I want to look at ways to support downtowns with resources such as gas and sewer to attract business. Also look at ways to bring people from across the county to the north-end by rail road. I want to create a working community.
3) I will not cut public safety funding. I believe pubic safety is too vital for business and our families. I will seek to find other ways to cut budgets and be fiscally responsible without tax increases. If we want more tax revenue then we need more business growth.
4) I believe we need to cut the bureaucratic attitude of holding-up business and create an open door for business growth. I plan to work with the communities in the 1st district so we can succeed together. We need people employed to solve our problems. More info at votebunting.com

Beth Nuccio, 51 (Republican)
Brandon Township
Education: Master of Arts, Central Michigan University; Bachelor of Science, Ferris State University
Occupation: Director of Career Services, Baker College of Auburn Hills
Government-related experience: Brandon Board of Education Trustee for 15 years, currently President
Family: Married for 27 years to Joe. Children: Chris married to Berryl (expecting child), Troy and Mikki
1. I am running for County Commissioner because we need elected officials that will listen and represent the people they serve, ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and fight to reduce government redundancy. My proven record of public service demonstrates my ability to listen, learn and represent the people I serve.
2. To improve the county’s economic condition, Oakland County must provide a business friendly environment, so that business can create jobs. Incentives, lower taxes, incubators, technology services and education, are important components of this environment. I support continued investment in economic growth sectors and providing an attractive environment for business.
3. Taxpayers cannot afford any more taxes. The county needs to continually look at restructuring the way it does business. Offering retirement incentives, limiting capital purchases, competitive bidding of contracts, hiring freezes and technology enhancements are efforts I support.
4. As commissioner I will fight for our tax dollars being spent on services that we use. I support a waste management plan that incorporates conservation, recycling and composting- not landfills. I support the efforts of the local municipalities and will provide a strong voice for the residents of District #1.

Kenneth J. Quisenberry, 51 (Democrat)
Village of Ortonville
Brandon High School / Oakland University / Oakland Police Academy
Private Investigator / Retired Lieutenant-Oakland County Sheriff Dept.
Current Village of Ortonville-President, 8 years School Board Treasurer (and past president), 25 years of Law Enforcement Service-County of Oakland
I am Married (Nicole), I have two adult children (Sean & Shannon)
1. Born and raised in North Oakland County. I’ve led a long and rewarding career in law enforcement, being privileged to serve the communities where I live. Continuing on with 2 terms as School Board Treasurer, now serving as Ortonville President. I will ensure North Oakland County the best possible representation.
2. A mandatory balanced budget and continued efforts to enhance a positive climate for both large and small businesses, without tax increases. With innovative new ideas and technology resources Oakland County will continue to lead the region and the state.
3. This one is simple. Expenditures should never exceed Revenue, however I believe that the quality of services does not need to be compromised. I strongly believe that loss in revenue can be off-set by improving efficiency in government and programs.
4. Let’s make sure our voices are heard. District #1 communities pay taxes to Oakland County, and should expect improved infrastructure and the delivery of quality services. (roads, public health, public safety, and support services) North Oakland has long been an extraordinary blend of quaint small-town life, and rural splendor.

James R. Porritt, Jr., 62 (Republican)
Oxford
Education: Lake Orion High School – 1966; Oakland University – 1970; Wayne State University Law School – 1973
Occupation: Attorney, Real Estate Broker
Political Experience: Past President -Kiwanis; Past President Parents Association; Past Chairperson – College Republicans; Past Chairman Real Estate Committee – Oakland Co. Bar Assoc.; Past Member Grievance Commission – NOCBOR; Chairman – Chili Challenge; Director – OACC
Family: Married 41 years to Christine; 5 Children; 4 Granddaughters and 1 Grandson expected
1) In response to clients? complaining about members of municipal bodies we have appeared before, I have repeatedly said that if we are not willing to step up, we can’t complain. The next several years will present tremendous challenges and I feel a duty to offer my services.
2) Beyond supporting initiatives like Automation Alley and Energy Sectors, I recognize that we can collaborate to launch lifestyl- oriented programs similar to the rails-to-trails. Two of my children were drawn to out-of-state metropolitan areas by their stimulating atmospheres. How about a county-wide co-ed kickball league?
3) Michigan law restricts Counties from increasing revenues. Raising millage is not an option and offers no solution. Aside from reduction of the number of employees through retirements, we will have to turn to privatization and reduction of services.
4) Communities in District 1 have traditionally been governed by fiscally responsible leaders. Their no-frills budgets leave little tolerance for the deep cuts in revenues they will have to absorb. I will support higher contributions to tri-party agreements to help finance needed road improvements.

Steve Porter, 61 (Republican)
Addison Twp.
I have a BA from Spring Arbor University in Elementary Education and graduate work at Oakland
University in School Administration.
I am a small business owner (Porters? Contracted Services, Inc. and Great Lakes Restoration Solutions, Inc.). I have been the Pastor of Leonard Community Church for 24 years.
I have served Addison Township as Deputy Treasurer, on the Zoning Board of Appeals, and on the Library board.
I also serve as Chaplain for the Oxford Police Department.
My wife Jan and I have been married for 40 years. We have two sons, Jason 31 and Andy 29. Jason and his wife Danyelle have given Jan and myself two wonderful grandchildren. Drew 4 and Audrey is 22-months-old.
1.) I am running for County Commissioner to serve the people of my district. I am well qualified and have experienced first-hand what the present economic pressures are doing to small businesses. I understand the need for small government, local control and fiscal responsibility.
2. ) I believe we must remove the personal property tax and the small business tax to stimulate the business environment. We must also support the Downtown Development Authorities to help attract the mom-and-pop stores in our communities.
3.) We must cut spending in our county. Focusing on small government is vital. Ruth Johnson has done an outstanding job as county clerk in using technology to help keep her staffing needs low. All governments at all levels must take a closer look at their number of employees.
4. One of my highest priorities as the commissioner of District #1 will be to stay in contact with the elected officials of each community and township in order for me to know the struggles they are facing. cannot help fix the problem if I am not aware of it.

Andrew Potter, 47 (Republican)
Ortonville
Education: Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) – University of Michigan, Bachelor of Science Criminal Justice ? Ferris State University, Grand Haven High School.
Occupation: Police Officer ? Retired
Government-Related Experience: Pension Board Trustee, Treasurer Oak Park Police Officers Association, Extensive Labor and Contract Negotiation Experience, United States Air Force- Military Police, and Fire Fighter I and Fire Fighter II certified.
Family: Resident of Brandon Twp -17 years, married 17 years, 1 child.
1.) I am running because I am concern for our state of affairs in reference to fiscal shortfalls and reckless spending of our finite tax dollars by those currently in office. By electing me, I will challenge the status quo and the excessive benefits enjoyed by our elected officials.
2. ) To save our job loss rate and our tax base, small business must be given assistance. This can be accomplished through nonfinancial assistance through the use of enterprise zones, tax incremental financing (TIF), and tax stabilization programs. These programs would also encourage new technologies to move into the area.
3. ) I am strongly opposed to any and all tax increases. Tax increases now would further cripple our fragile economic condition. As our economy continues to contract, so too must our governments size and its spending. Resource sharing with other government entities would save jobs and money.
4.) For most communities, keeping what we have is the challenge of today and tomorrow. To improve our district, I would simply stop spending on frivolous projects focusing on maintaining what is already here through resource and labor efficiency; thus, saving our infrastructure and millions of dollars for tomorrow and beyond.

John Roshek, 30 (Republican)
Oxford Twp.
Education: Some College
Occupation: Banker
Government-related experience: None
Family (spouse, kids): Wife, Jessica
1.) I decided that I am tired of sitting by and watching politicians run this country and nothing would ever change unless someone finally stood up and did something about it.
2.) Tax breaks and incentives for new businesses to move in to the community. Encourage entrepreneurship and small business owners within my district.
3.) I am strongly opposed to raising taxes. I feel that America has been taxed to death and I will not support any legislation that calls for tax hikes! Government like its citizens MUST learn to work within its budgets and cut unnecessary spending in order to survive.
4.) I would work hard every day to keep the citizens of district 1 working and to encourage new growth. I would fight to protect the rights of all of our citizens and to be the voice of the people. The citizens give us the power to work for THEM and I promise to uphold that value!

Bradford Jacobsen, 54 (Republican)
Oxford
Education: K-12 Oxford Schools, James Madison College of MSU 1979
Occupation: Florist – Small Business Owner
Government-related experience: 16 years Oxford Township Trustee (1984-2000) and Oakland County Commissioner District 1 (2006-present), various committees and boards
Family (spouse, kids): Wife of 30 years, Teri 30; 3 kids – Lauren, Emily, and Bradford
1) We need to get our state back on firm financial ground which will bring about more and better jobs to stabilize our families. Michigan’s been a great place to work, play and raise a family. I want to get us back on track.
2) Michigan has been struggling far too long. Lansing continues to apply band-aids. Budget reductions and lower taxes will put more money into our pockets. This should increase retail sales and allow businesses to stay and expand creating jobs.
3) Cut spending immediately. All revenues are down and will continue in that trend. We cannot continue to spend what we don’t have hoping that the dollars will magically appear. Tax cuts should quickly follow to free up dollars for both consumer spending and business expansion.
4) Set the state budget in July so the school systems know what to expect in funding. Consider consolidation of school districts. It makes no sense to have costly duplication of services. Privatization of services need to studied. In today’s economic situation all expenditures need to be reviewed.

Daniel Myslakowski, 58 (Republican)
Orion Township, 23 Years
Family: Married 30 years to wife Dee in August. Sons Daniel and Ryan. Strong family values. Right to Life Candidate.
Education: Master’s Degree Public Administration, Central Michigan University; Bachelor of Science, Business Administration, Ferris State University.; Associate’s Degree Dental Technology , Ferris State University; H.P. UNIX Technical Certification; Microsoft Windows Technical Certification; Michigan Builder’s License.
Occupation: Project Manager Professional; IT Project Manager, certified in UNIX, Microsoft and ITIL
Small Business Owner
Worked my way through college at Dodge Main Car Assembly Plant for 4.5 years.
Government-related experience: Elected Macomb County Commissioner
Organizations: Crew Team member for Friendship Park Playground Project; Orion/Oxford Soccer Coach; Coach at Roller Hockey at Basketball America, Lake Orion; Former Recording Secretary for Knights of Columbus, Council 3257; Knights of Columbus Muscular Dystrophy Fundraiser volunteer; St. Joe’s, Lake Orion Boy Scouts of America Volunteer; St. Joe’s Eucharistic Minister and volunteer; Support to Christ the Redeemer, Catholic Church; Support to Look for the Good, Lake Orion; Support to the Lake Orion Fireworks Fundraisers; Support to Race for the Cure and the Komen 3-day race against Cancer;Support to St. Jude’s Hospital for Children;Previous Board member for Keatington Home Owners and Beach Manager;Worked on Several Keatington Ecology water and land projects; Helped on several Polly Ann Trail B.S.A. Eagle Scout Beautification Projects; Successful Stock Market investor
1.) I am running to bring 35 years of successful private, and public sector skills to fix a broken Lansing which is so politically hamstrung, and beholding to Special Interests that both political parties COULD NOT even start a budget process on time for the last 2 years!
2.) To attract and retain jobs Michigan has to be better than other states, and countries. We have to target, and develop top-notch resources, to support a job friendly environment where Government helps its business partners to be successful, profitable! I will lead with my experience!
3.) Michigan cannot maintain the current levels of state programs and services, therefore, all expenses need to be reviewed, evaluated for the value they bring in relation to available resources! A multi-year plan to review, prioritize necessary projects, services needs to be implemented A.S.A.P.! I will make the hard, tough decisions!
4.) Most everyone agrees that a good education is necessary to get a good job. However, the way to get a good education is the area of great debate! Fact, for every new dollar allocated for public education less than 30 cents finds its way into the classroom! This MUST CHANGE!

John Garfield, 60 (Republican)
Rochester Hills
Education: Highland Park High 1967, Univ. of Maryland 1973 communications
Occupation: Retired U.S. Army, former Electrical Engineer/Estimator
Government related experience: Michigan Agent Orange Commission 1991-1992, Oakland County Commissioner 1993- 2002, State Representative 2003-2008
1.) Best experienced, Qualified, candidate. I have more experience on all of the issues, than all other candidates combined. Twice as effective as anyone running. I was Chairman of Military, Veterans Affairs, and Homeland Security. Energy and Technology, Subcommittee Chairman of Technology. My committee wrote the Michigan Telecommunications Act of 2007.
2.) It’s time to let the private sector do it. Eliminate the MBT Surcharge. Cut business taxes in half. Streamline licensing and permitting policies so projects can get underway without government red tape. Emulate the top 5 business friendly states.
3.) The state doesn’t need tax increases. Or fee– or fine increases. The state overspends based on ‘Projections?, instead of ‘Actual Revenue? to cover expenses. Mortgage foreclosures, loss of income tax’s from job losses, and income from sales are all down. It will take years of recovery. Cut spending.
4.) Consolidate school districts where we can. Privatize services, and purchasing efforts. Stop redistribution of the wealth to poorly managed districts. We continue to reward failure. Just look at Detroit’s school system. Our kids shouldn’t be shortchanged. Reform benefit, and retirement so employees match private sector contributions.

Lois Golden, 59 (Republican)
Rochester Hills
Education: Community College – no degree. Technical education related architectural design and graphic arts; Later ongoing education related to public service.
Occupation: Currently self-employed; Images by Golden – Web Design and consulting.
Government-related experience: Rochester Hills City Council 1998 – 2003; 100 million+ budget; Older Persons? Commission – 1998-2003 ; Paint Creek Trailways Commission; Public Safety Chair; Financial Services Board; Save Open Space Founding Member (Proposed as Council Member; Served on Volunteer Committee)
Administrative: Polly Ann Trailway Manager 2004-2006 Lake Orion Downtown Development Authority Executive Director – 2006 -2009; Oakland County Trails Advisory Council & Former Vice-Chair (as Trail Manager); Lake Orion Farmers? Market Founder (as Director and volunteer to present)
Citizen Volunteer/Government: Rochester Hills Historic Districts Commission Chair; Festival of the Hills Founding Member: Rochester Area Heritage Festival Board since 2001 – present. Rochester Hills Local Development Finance Authority – partnership with Oakland University Business Incubator 2003 – present
1) Though I respect my fellow candidates, very few have the experience to do the job. The learning curve for newcomers is long. I have the three components of experience needed to address serious budgetary concerns ? governmental administrative, legislative and economic development experience and a demonstrated commitment to my community.
2) New revenue is the key to Michigan’s fiscal health, not tax increases. I will use my economic development experience to duplicate prior successes with business attraction and retention. We must utilize business incubators like Oakland University’s to support the development of new technologies during this time of Michigan’s transition.
3) I DO NOT support tax increases or any additional taxes that will crush this economy further. We must put more money in the hands of the consumer to recover. This is based on my observations and experience administering a governmental budget. Priorities must be shifted to essential services and not frills.
4) Excellent education is essential and must be maintained. Many inequities exist despite the shift of funding from property tax revenue to sales tax revenue. I remain convinced we can prioritize and address problems without increases. I do not fault our unselfish teachers. Fifty words are not enough for this question.

Ted Golden, 67 (Democrat)
City of Rochester Hills
Education: Medical Degree, University of Michigan, 1968
Occupation: Dermatologist
Government-related experience: Served in U.S. Navy 1972-1974, Chief of Dermatology at Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune
1.) My goals in life were to help people by being a physician and then a politician. My political goal is to alleviate government abuse of the individual. The ‘Golden Legal Oversight Amendment? will create an independently elected board to police the legal system instead of attorneys policing themselves.
2) Opposite of the Republican proposals, I support very strong action by the executive branches of state and local government to actively pursue and retain businesses. This is what successful states are doing. As your Senator I will initiate and support legislation that will improve Michigan’s business climate.
3) The first priority is to make spending cuts and then more spending cuts. Minimum levels of acceptable government provided services and state employee pay will have to be redefined to a lower level. Additional revenue maybe needed. I favor closing tax loop holes and a graduated state income tax.
4) School spending should be reduced further in order to decrease funding requirements. School districts wanting enhanced educational programs should be given options to raise additional revenue from within the district with voter approval. As a last resort state wide taxes will have to be increased to maintain basic educational programs.

Jim Marleau, 63, (Republican)
Lake Orion
Education: Certified Municipal Finance Administrator (CMFA), C.M.U.; Associates in Business Administration (ABA), University of Toledo.
Occupation: Mid-west Manufacturing Representative and Small Business Owner (Retired)
Government-related experience: Orion Township Treasurer (8 years), Republican State Representative (3 terms)
Family (spouse, children): Thea (wife), Jim Jr. (son), Cristina (daughter)
1.) I am running for the Michigan Senate because 29 of the 36 members are new due to term limits. Michigan needs the kind of experience I bring. As a business owner, township treasurer, and experience in the legislature…training wheels won’t be necessary.
2.) Michigan can be a TOP-TEN destination for job-providers. First, over taxation and regulation must go. The 3 largest budgets are schools, prisons, and welfare health care. Quality schools attract jobs. Prison spending should be cut-like BOUCHARD has done locally-and welfare recipients should NOT have better healthcare than working families.
3.) Cut Spending–our current tax and spend policies do not work. Michigan is a beautiful place to live, but job-providers and families can’t afford our great state. See what I believe we need to get Michigan working, read my 12 Steps: Cut Spending & Right Size Government at www.jimmarleau.com.
4). Proposal A reduced property taxes and assured most sales tax went to schools. But the tax system needs to match the new economy — not by raising taxes, but by closing loopholes and making sure the burden is shared. Finally, public and private employee benefits need to be aligned.

Copper Rizzo, 25 (Republican)
Rochester Hills
Education: Graduate of Michigan State University
Occupation: Small Business Owner – The Avon Consulting Group
Government-related experience: Worked for State Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop’s office.
1) To improve our business climate, reform how state government works and change the culture of Lansing where accepting a full time salary and benefits for part time work is acceptable. ‘One of my first bills will be to’dock legislator pay for missed votes.
?2) Eliminate the MBT surcharge, cut the’gross receipts tax in half, adopt new funding formulas that do not add to the structural budget deficit and embrace an economic development policy which focuses on supporting existing in-state businesses over attracting new business from outside the state.
3) Michigan has a state government that has a spending problem. Lansing refuses to do what families throughout our community have done and that is prioritize their expenditures. To find our path forward’our overall tax structure must change but we must first reign in reckless government spending.
?4) I would aligning the school budget with the general fund, limit what school districts spend on administration to 28% of overall budgets, require schools to competitively bid contracts for non-instructional services and reduce per-pupil funding for school districts that fail to consolidate and share services.

Kim Russel, 51 (Republican)
Rochester
Education: BS Northern Michigan University
Occupation: Small Manufacturing Business Owner
Government-related experience: Rochester City Council

1.) I want to commit my energy and conservative values to help make Michigan one of the easiest states in which to do business. I want to restore and retain jobs by reducing the cost of doing business and cutting red tape. I want to bring lean government to Lansing.
2.) Create a one-stop shop for business licensing and permitting, repeal the Michigan Business Tax 22% surcharge, and make Michigan a right-to-work state. Reduce barriers, taxes, and red tape. Evaluate Michigan Economic Development Corporation, MEGA grants to see if they produce the jobs they announce and the actual cost per job.
3.) We must reduce spending and the size of government. I want to align public health care benefit plans with the private sector, privatize prisons services, eliminate prisoner pay, and reduce welfare fraud to save 600 million dollars. We cannot increase or expand taxes in this economy to balance the budget.
4.) Align state and school district fiscal years to improve schools ability to accurately budget. Align employee benefits with private sector to stop overspending on benefits and start reinvesting in the classroom. The largest school funding problem is the shrinking economy. Reviving business, restoring jobs will fix our school funding problem.

Gene Taliercio, 42 (Republican)
Rochester Hills
Education: 4 yrs Ferris State
Occupation: Businessman/Sales/Taliercio Bros Wholesale Food Dist.
Government-related experience: NONE!! I’m a fresh face in Lansing!
Family (spouse, kids): 1 son
1.) After 20 years of successfully running my family business, I want to help bring Michigan out of the political and financial mess we are in (i.e., $60 Billion debt). I want to bring some common sense back to Lansing.
2.) Eliminate the MBT’stop penalizing businesses for being successful. Allow businesses to expand and grow and re-hire people. I want to target 5 industries for growth: manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, energy, technology. We also need to re-educate our people with the skills to fill these new positions.
3.) Establishing the Bank of Michigan, based on North Dakota’s model. Through it we to utilize our tax revenue assets by putting them to work for us. Through the Bank we invest wisely, earn our own interest, pay our debts, build a surplus’not let Wall Street profit off our money. Which do you favor in order to deal with the states budget problems and why? We should streamline our budget and make cut-backs across the board. We’ve been spending more and more on poorer services for fewer people. We need to stop spending money we don’t have. We’re broke, and we need to roll up our sleeves and pull ourselves back on track.
4.) Re-district our schools, lower the cost of administration, and put more dollars into the classrooms. Make the schools more competitive and give more options. Stop rewarding for poor performance.

Casandra Ulbrich, 35 (Democrat)
Rochester Hills
Education: AA, St. Clair County Community College; BA, University of Michigan; MA, Wayne State University; PhD candidate (ABD), Wayne State University
Occupation: Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations, Wayne State University
Government-related experience: Member of the State Board of Education
1.) I am running because I can no longer watch as leadership is replaced by partisan bickering. As a member of the State Board of Education, I am part of a bi-partisan board that puts party aside for the best interest of our state, a philosophy I will take to Lansing.
2.) We should continue supporting entrepreneurship opportunities. We have among the best higher education institutions in the country. With 15 public universities, Michigan is in a unique position to capitalize on the cutting-edge research taking place. These innovations can be commercialized into companies that will hire highly skilled workers.
3.) Neither alone will solve our budget problems. Michigan needs to rethink the structure in which we operate. This includes re-prioritizing our spending, reforming state government to create efficiencies and evaluating corporate tax breaks to identify and eliminate waste.
4.) The State Board of Education recently engaged in a six-month process, which included public participation, to identify recommendations that will both enhance and support public education in the state of Michigan. The report, which includes a number of recommendations passed on to the legislature, can viewed at www.michigan.gov/sbe.