Voices to be heard

Twenty-four candidates representing Bates and Cass Counties appeared before a crowd at the Drexel Community Center last Thursday evening for a showdown of sorts. Each candidate received five minutes to try to earn your vote in the November 4th election. Those candidates and incumbents appearing were: Cass County South Commissioners Bill Cook (R) and Terry Wilson (D); Bates County North Commissioners Joyce Haynie (D) and Randy Pike (R); State Senators (District 31) Chris Benjamin (D) and David Pearce (R); Cass County Sheriff Dwight Diehl (R) and Bill Hughes (D); Bates County Sheriff Doug Mullenix (R) and Chad Anderson (D); State Representatives (District 120) Kristi Kenney (D)and Scott Largent (R); Cass County Assessors Bob Huston (R) and Danny Powell (D); Bates County Assessor Roger Pruden (D); State Representatives (District 125) Barney Fisher (R) and Carla Keough (D); Cass County Treasurers Steve Cheslik (R) and Sandra Riley (D); Bates County Collectors/Treasurers Harold Kershner (R) and Jim Platt (D); Cass County Public Administrator Karen Meador (D); Circuit Judge (Circuit 17 Division 2) Lynn Stoppy (R) and Mike Wagner (D); and State Representative (District 124) Jim Danner (R).
Following the forum, candidates and voters mingled to discuss hot topics all while enjoying refreshments. Many candidates also provided literature and signs for their supporters.
PHOTOS: State Senator candidate David Pearce (R), speaks to the crowd on his views and objectives if elected, and Carla Keough (D), candidate seeking the seat as State Representative (District 125), speaks to Charlene Varns of Drexel on her top priority issues.
Photos by STACY RICE