Madville Times: Introductions: AAUW Candidates Forum

Russ Olson:

points out his strength against the incumbents in the 2006 election.
Energy economic development, and energy are the issues we'll face as priorities.
Feels more confident this time around, as he has spent his last two years working with school administrators.

Scott Parsley:

Economic development: SD economy in relatively good shape compared to rest of country, though we've seen an increase in unemployment
Energy is biggest issue in our future: all other issues will benefit from what we can do in energy
Neighboring states have done a lot in energy; SD lags in wind development because those states offer incentives we don't
Education will be major issue, too

Mitch Fargen:

Patricia Stricherz:

Grew up in Iowa, met husband Jay in Army; "it's his fault I ended up in South Dakota" ;-)
Running because she saw things as a "family readiness leader": veterans' families losing homes and businesses

Jerry Johnson:

Graduate of Madison HS and DSU
Agree on big issues previously mentioned
"Why do I want to run?" passion and desire to serve District 8 and state; no hidden agenda, no chip on my shoulder, not using this as "stepping stone"
Want to discuss the issues
South Dakota in good shape, just need to fine tune a few things
Six years as Madison City Commissioner, cooperation with DSU and many other organizations

Gerry Lange:

Thanks other candidates for running; no democracy without the contest
Came to DSU in 1964 after teaching English in Spain (and running with the bulls!)
"Money is like manure; it does no good unless it's spread around."
Recalls 1984 mission change at DSU, which eliminated history, government, etc.; Mundt Foundation and others helped fight to maintain those programs
"involuntarily retired" two years ago
Education being neglected: "most important thing we can do as a people is educate our children" said Lincoln
Also notes that Lincoln wouldn't find Civil War on credit, unlike today's administration.

Madville Times