Election Selection 2020

ELE CTIO N S E L E C T I O N

A POLITICAL GUIDE TO THE GENERAL ELECTION FOR SOUTHWEST COLORADO AND NORTHERN NEW MEXICO

VOTE VOTE

SALKA SALKA LA PLATA COUNTY COMMISSIONER, DISTRICT 3

Building Bridges: Building Bridges: I bring a younger

VOTE

Political Divides Across Across Political Divides PERSPECTIVE to office.

Generations Across Across Generations I’m 41 years old with a young family. I personally the challanges younger people are facing toknow a Renewed Economy to a Renewed Economy when making La Plata County home. to Affordable Housing to Affordable Housing

SALKA

Building Bridges: I bring hands-on

Across Political Divides | 970-444-2210 VOTE mattsalka.com EXPERIENCE. mattsalka.com | 970-444-2210 Across Generations

SALKA

Paidfor forCounty

by Matt for County Commissioner, Matt Salka, Registered Agent AsCommissioner, Mayor of Bayfield accomplished: The Mill Street d for by Matt MattI Salka, Registered Agent

to a Renewed Economy Revitalization Project that attracted new businesses through public and private partnerships, better broadto Affordable Housing band access, safer roads, improved water treatment, and better recycling.

Building Bridges:| 970-444-2210 mattsalka.com

Across Political Divides I build BRIDGES. Across Generations I will work across political and generational to a Renewed Economy divides, to deliver a renewed economy, and to Affordable Housing affordable and attainable housing options.

YOUR COUNTY

YOUR VOICE

Paid for by Matt for County Commissioner, Matt Salka, Registered Agent

VOTE

SALKA

salka2020 @matthewsalka

mattsalka.com | 970-444-2210 Building Bridges: mattsalka.com | 970-444-2210

Paid for by Matt for County Commissioner, Matt Salka, Registered Agent

Across Political Divides Paid for by Matt for County Commissioner, Matt Salka, Registered Agent Across Generations to a Renewed Economy

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Douglas Bennett

05 LE T T E R F ROM THE EDITOR 06 P O L LI N G LOC ATIONS 07 LI ST O F C ANDIDATES 08 F R E Q U E NTLY A S K ED QUESTIO N S 10 H OW TO R EG ISTER TO VOTE 11 VA LI D IDENTIFIC ATION 12 CO LO R ADO BA LLOT ME AS URES 13 NE W M E XICO BALLOT ME A S U RES

ELECTION S E L E C T I O N

14 CAN DIDATE Q&A La Plata County Commissioner District 2 Jack Turner Marsha Porter-Norton

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE

15 CAN DIDATE Q&A La Plata County Commissioner District 3

Charly Minkler Matt Salka

Tad Smith

16 CAN DIDATE Q&A Montezuma County Commissioner District 3 Rebecca Samulski 17 CAN DIDATE Q&A Archuleta County Commissioner District 1 Warren Brown Matthew Witt 18 C EL EBRATIN G 1 00 YE ARS OF WOM EN ’S SUFFRAGE

Carrie Cass EDITORIAL

Hunter Harrell special sections editor

DESIGN

manager of creative services

Gary Markstein Bridget Williams A DV E RT I S I N G

Jamie Opalenik director of multimedia sales

Amy Baird, Tana Bowen, Kelly Bulkley, Cole Davis, Aly Nelson, Joe Nelson, Shell Simonson, Chandler Sommerfeldt PRODUCTION

Ryan Brown

production manager

Ballantine Communications uses reasonable effort to include accurate and up-to-date information.

However, all information comes from a variety of sources and may change at any time for any reason. To verify specific information, refer to the organization or business noted. To view the online version of this guide, visit: www.durangoherald.com

Paid for by Committee to Elect Barbara McLachlan

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ELECTION SELEC TI ON

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

The power of choice “Somewhere inside all of us is the power to change the world.”

- roald dahl

Politics can be a polarizing topic; at the same time, many Americans believe voting is an important civic duty. Holding democratic elections encourages community engagement and places the power in the hands of the people.

Stan Lee’s words resonate with me regularly “with great power there must also come – great responsibility!” When it comes to voting, I feel this personal responsibility increases tenfold. My choice in an election will affect friends, neighbors and visitors.

How do we wield this power responsibly to move toward positive outcomes for ourselves and others? It starts with education. According to poet Elizabeth Bishop, “democracy in the contemporary world demands, among other things, an educated and informed public.”

To that end, voters in the Four Corners should have confidence in their choices. So, Ballantine Communications is proud to present the 2020 Election Selection, a free publication that serves as a comprehensive guide to the general election in November for residents of Southwest Colorado and Northern New Mexico communities.

Review polling locations, the list of candidates and voter’s registration information. Learn more about the different measures on this year’s ballot and how they might affect our communities. Get acquainted with county commissioner candidates in the Q&A section.

Regardless of affiliation, this publication is a tool to help super citizens hone voting powers and exercise responsibility with their right to vote. For more election coverage, subscribe to The Durango Herald or The Journal.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world: indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

- margaret mead

Freedom of the Press is essential to democracy.

Support local journalism, become a subscriber today.

970.375.4530 | subscriptions.durangoherald.com | subscriptions.the-journal.com VOT E 2 0 20

EL EC T ION S E L E CT I ON

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P O L L I N G L O C AT I O N S

CO LO RA D O LA PLATA COUNTY

MONTEZUMA COUNTY

ARCHULETA COUNTY

LA PLATA COUNTY

MONTEZUMA COUNTY

ARCHULETA COUNTY

NE W M E X ICO SAN JUAN COUNTY

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ELECTION SELEC TI ON

VOTER SERVICES & POLLING LOCATIONS La Plata County Clerk & Recorder’s Office Bayfield Town Hall La Plata County Fairgrounds Fort Lewis College Community Concert Hall Southern Ute Cultural Center and Museum Montezuma County Clerk & Recorder’s Office Dolores Public Library Mancos Public Library Ute Mountain Ute Recreation Center Archuleta County Elections Office 24-HOUR DROP BOX LOCATIONS La Plata County Clerk & Recorder’s Office Bayfield Town Hall La Plata County Administration Building Farmers Fresh Market Fort Lewis College Community Concert Hall Montezuma County Clerk & Recorder’s Office Dolores Town Hall Mancos Town Hall Tribal Complex Building Cortez City Hall Archuleta County Courthouse TARA Community Center

ADDRESS 679 Turner Drive, Suite C, Durango 1199 Bayfield Parkway, Bayfield 2500 Main Ave., Durango 1000 Rim Drive, Durango 503 Ouray Drive, Ignacio 140 West Main St. Suite 1, Cortez 1002 Railroad Ave., Dolores 211 W. First St., Mancos 495 Sunset Blvd., Towaoc 449 San Juan Street, Pagosa Springs ADDRESS 679 Turner Drive, Suite C, Durango 1199 Bayfield Parkway, Bayfield 1101 E. Second Ave., Durango 535 Goddard Ave., Ignacio 1000 Rim Drive, Durango 140 W. Main St. Suite #1, Cortez 420 Central Ave., Dolores 117 N. Main St., Mancos 124 Mike Wash Road, Towaoc 123 Roger Smith Ave., Cortez 449 San Juan Street, Pagosa Springs 333 Milton Lane, Arboles

VOTER SERVICES & POLLING LOCATIONS ADDRESS Aztec Masonic Lodge 1020 NE Aztec Blvd., Aztec Cedar Hill Fire Station 4 Road 2343, Aztec SJC Fire Operations Center 209 S. Oliver Drive, Aztec Blanco Fire Station 7372 U.S. Highway 64, Blanco Bloomfield City Hall 915 N. First St., Bloomfield Bloomfield Cultural Center 333 S. First St., Bloomfield Farmington City Hall 800 Municipal Drive, Farmington Farmington Civic Center 200 W. Arrington, Farmington Farmington Museum at Gateway Park 3041 E. Main St., Farmington Farmington Public Library 2102 Farmington Ave., Farmington McGee Park 41 Road 5568, Farmington Pinon Hills Community Church 5101 No. Dustin Ave., Farmington Pinon Hills Seventh Day Adventist Church 5001 Foothills Drive, Farmington Sycamore Park Community Center 1051 Sycamore St., Farmington Flora Vista Fire Station 2 Road 3275, Flora Vista Brooks/Isham Performing Arts Center 540 Road 6100, Kirtland Kirtland Youth Association 39 Road 6500, Kirtland La Plata Community Center 1438 NM Highway 170, La Plata CCSD Business Office South of U.S. Highway 64, Shiprock Phil L Thomas Performing Arts Center U.S. Highway 64/West of Shiprock High School Beclabito Chapter Facilities Road 9064 Crystal Chapter Facilities 1/3 mile north on N12 from junction N12 and N134 Gadii’ahi Chapter Facilities 11 miles northwest on Road 9100 Huerfano Chapter Facilities 536 Road 7150 Lake Valley School 13 Road 7750 Nageezi Chapter Facilities 11553 NM Highway 550 Nenahnezad Chapter Facilities Between Road 6675 & N36 Newcomb Fire Station U.S. Highway 491 - mile marker 56.5 Sheep Springs Chapter Facilities 1/4 mile west of Sheep Springs Store Tiis Tsoh Sikaad (Burnham) Chapter Facilities 12 miles east of U.S. Highway 491 on Navajo Route 5 and .5 miles south on Navajo Route 5080 Tse alnaozt’i’l (Sanostee) Chapter Facilities 9 miles west of U.S. Highway 491 on Indian Service Route 34 Two Grey Hills Chapter Facilities Junction of N19 and N5000, 3 miles south VOTE 20 20

C A N D I D AT E S CO LO RA D O General Election Candidates NATIONAL OFFICES PRESIDENTIAL ELECTORS

Joseph R. Biden, Kamala D. Harris democratic Donald J. Trump, Michael R. Pence republican Don Blankenship, William Mohr american constitution Bill Hammons, Eric Bodenstab unity Howie Hawkins, Angela Nicole Walker green Blake Huber, Frank Atwood approval voting

Jo Jorgensen, Jeremy “Spike” Cohen libertarian Brian Carroll, Amar Patel american solidarity

Mark Charles, Adrian Wallace unaffiliated Phil Collins, Billy Joe Parker prohibition Roque “Rocky” De La Fuente, Darcy G. Richardson alliance Dario Hunter, Dawn Neptune Adams progressive Princess Khadijah Maryam Jacob-Fambro, Khadijah Maryam Jacob Sr. unaffiliated Alyson Kennedy, Malcolm Jarrett socialist workers Joseph Kishore, Norissa Santa Cruz socialist equity Kyle Kenley Kopitke, Nathan Re Vo Sorenson independent american

Gloria La Riva, Sunil Freeman socialism and libertarian

Joe McHugh, Elizabeth Storm unaffiliated

Brock Pierce, Karla Ballard unaffiliated

Jordan “Cancer” Scott, Jennifer Tepool unaffiliated Kanye West, Michelle Tidball unaffiliated

Stephan “Seku” Evans unity Raymon Anthony Doane libertarian

REPRESENTATIVE TO THE 117TH UNITED STATES CONGRESS – DISTRICT 3

Lauren Boebert republican Diane E. Mitsch Bush democratic

John Ryan Keil Critter Milton

libertarian unity

STATE OFFICES STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION MEMBERS CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 3

COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 3

Joel Ira Stevenson republican Rebecca Samulski unaffiliated

ARCHULETA COUNTY OFFICES COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 1

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 59

COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 2

Marylin Harris republican Barbara McLachlan democratic DISTRICT ATTORNEY 6 TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

Christian Champagne

Ronnie Maez republican Natalie Carpenter unaffiliated COUNTY SURVEYOR Ron Sutcliffe unaffiliated

STATE OFFICES STATE SENATOR DISTRICT 1

William E. Sharer republican

STATE SENATOR DISTRICT 2

Steven P. Neville

republican

STATE SENATOR DISTRICT 3

Arthur Pierce Allison republican Shannon Dawn Pinto democratic

DISTRICT COURT JUDGE 11th JUDICIAL DISTRICT DIVISION 4

Susan E. Aguayo republican Benny Shendo Jr. democratic STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 1

Rodney D. Montoya

republican

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 2

James RJ Strickler

republican

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 3

JUDICIAL RETENTION

PRESIDENTIAL ELECTORS

colorado supreme court justice

Howie Hawkins, Angela Nicole Walker green Jo Jorgensen, Jeremy “Spike” Cohen libertarian Joseph R. Biden, Kamala D. Harris democratic Sheila “Samm” Tittle and David Carl Sandige constitution Donald J. Trump, Michael R. Pence republican Gloria La Riva, Sunil Freeman

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 5

socialism and libertarian

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 69

colorado court of appeals judge

Ted C. Tow III

colorado court of appeals judge

Craig R. Welling

district court judge district

6th judicial

Suzanne Fairchild Carlson district court judge 6th judicial district

Todd Parker Norvell

UNITED STATES SENATOR

LA PLATA COUNTY OFFICES

Bob Walsh libertarian Mark V. Ronchetti republican Ben R. Lujan democratic

COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 2

UNITED STATES REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 3

Marsha Porter-Norton democratic

democratic

Matthew Salka democratic Charly Minkler unaffiliated

Alexis M. Johnson republican Teresa Leger Fernandez democratic

republican

STATE SENATOR DISTRICT 22

George K. Munoz democratic Angela R. Olive republican

P. Mark Duncan republican Anthony Allison democratic

Carlos A. Samour Jr.

Stephen P. Curtis libertarian Shammara H. Henderson

STATE SENATOR DISTRICT 4

NATIONAL OFFICES

colorado supreme court justice

JUSTICE OF THE COURT OF APPEALS POSITION 2

JUSTICE OF THE COURT OF APPEALS POSITION 3

Matthew Gregory Margeson Melissa Hart

Barbara V. Johnson republican Zach Ives democratic party

Gertrude Lee

T. Ryan Lane

DISTRICT ATTORNEY 22 ND JUDICIAL DISTRICT

JUSTICE OF THE COURT OF APPEALS POSITION 1

democratic

N E W M E X I CO

democratic

COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 3

VOT E 2 0 20

Kent Lindsay republican

Mayling Simpson democratic Joyce Rankin republican

Jack Turner unaffiliated

Cory Gardner republican Daniel Doyle approval voting

COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 2

Warren M. Brown republican Matthew T. Witt unaffiliated Clifford Lucero unaffiliated

UNITED STATES SENATOR

John W. Hickenlooper

MONTEZUMA COUNTY OFFICES

republican

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 4

Doreen Wonda Johnson democratic

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 9

Patricia “Patty” A. Lundstrom democratic

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 65

Derrick J. Lente democratic Phillip D. Salazar republican Harry Garcia democratic Roy Randall Ryan republican JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT POSITION 1

Ned S. Fuller republican Shannon Bacon democratic

JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT POSITION 2

Kerry J. Morris republican David K. Thomson democratic

Thomas C. Montoya republican Jane B. Yohalem democratic Curtis R. Gurley

republican

DISTRICT COURT JUDGE 11TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT DIVISION 5

R. David Pederson

democratic

DISTRICT COURT JUDGE 11TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT DIVISION 1

Robert (Rick) P. Tedrow republican

MAGISTRATE JUDGE DIVISION 6

Stephen M. Wayne unaffiliated Stacey D. Biel republican

JUDICIAL RETENTION JUDGE OF THE COURT OF APPEALS

Jacqueline R. Medina 11TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT JUDGE

Division 1 Bradford J. Dalley Division 2 Louis E. Depauli Jr. Division 3 Sarah V. Weaver Division 6 Dalene Ann Marsh Division 7 Robert A. Aragon Division 8 Karen L. Townsend

COUNTY OFFICES COUNTY CLERK

Riccardo Damian Artalejo democratic Tanya C. Shelby republican COUNTY TREASURER

Carol B. Taulbee

COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 3

Steve D. Lanier

republican

COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 4

Terri D. Fortner

republican

COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 5

John T. Beckstead

republican

EL EC T ION S E L E CT I ON

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V O T E R I N F O R M AT I O N

Answers to frequently asked questions When election time rolls around, staff members at your county clerk’s office field a plethora of questions about voter registration and ballots. Here is a list of the most common questions from voters and the answers they seek.

WH AT I F M Y NA ME AN D/OR ADDRE SS H AS CHAN GED? Please update your voter registration. See page 10 for more information about how to register to vote and update voter registration in your state.

WH Y DO YOU NEED TO KNOW WH ER E I LIVE? Precincts and districts are assigned based on your residential address.

WH E N WI L L I R ECEIVE MY BALLOT BY MAIL? Ballots will be sent by Oct. 9. If you don’t receive a ballot within a week, call your local clerk’s office. Staff will confirm voter registration information and mail a replacement ballot.

I F I WI L L B E OUT OF TOWN WH E N BAL LOTS AR E MAILED, H OW C AN I RE CEIVE A BALLOT ?

Ballots are in the county clerk’s office, or voters may complete a Voter Registration Application to receive an absentee ballot.

WHAT IF I MA K E A MI STA K E , DAMAGE O R LOS E MY BA LLOT ?

Call your local county clerk’s office and request a replacement ballot. One will be mailed to you provided the request is received no later than Oct. 26. Otherwise, you may request a replacement ballot in person at a Voter Service and Polling Center until 7 p.m. on Election Day.

WILL MY BA LLOT B E CO UNT ED I F I D O N’ T VOTE ON A LL C A ND I DAT ES A ND ME A S UR ES ?

Your ballot will be counted for all voted races.

DO I HAV E TO R ET UR N MY VOTED BA LLOT BY MA I L? No, you have the choice of mailing your ballot or returning it to any designated ballot drop site or voter service and polling center location. Ballots should not be mailed after Oct. 26.

IS POSTAGE R EQ UI R ED TO MAIL THE VOT ED BA LLOT ?

A standard first class stamp is necessary to return a voted ballot by mail. If you return a ballot to a 24-hour drop box or voter service and polling location, no postage is needed.

CAN I MA I L MULT I P LE BA LLOTS IN ONE R ET UR N ENV ELO P E? No. Only one ballot may be returned per signature envelope.

WHEN MUST T H E BA LLOT B E R ET UR NED? The voted ballot must be received by 7 p.m. on election night. Postmarks do not count.

WILL ANYO NE K NOW H OW I VOTED O NC E I MA I L MY BA LLOT ?

All ballots are separated from the return envelope before ballots are inspected. This process ensures confidentiality.

CAN THE P UB LI C WATC H THE ELEC T I O N P RO C ESS ?

All steps of the process are open to the public for observation.

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C O N TA C T If you still have questions about voting in the 2020 general election, please contact your local county clerk’s office.

COLORADO

L A PL ATA COU NTY C L E R K & R E CORDE R’S OFFI C E 679 Turner Drive, Suite C, Durango (970) 382-6296 regular hours:

Monday-Friday Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 3

7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

8 a.m. - noon 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

MONTEZUMA COUNTY CLER K & R ECOR DER’S OF F ICE 140 West Main St. Suite 1, Cortez (970) 565-3728 regular hours:

Monday-Friday Oct. 24 Oct. 31

8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

ARCHULETA COUNTY CLER K & R ECOR DER’S OF F ICE

NEW ME XICO

S A N JUA N CO UNT Y C LER K ’S O FFI C E 100 S. Oliver Drive, Aztec (505) 334-9471 regular hours:

Monday-Friday Oct. 17-31 Monday-Friday Saturday

7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

449 San Juan St., Pagosa Springs regular hours:

Monday-Friday Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 3

8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

8 a.m. - noon 8 a.m. - noon 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Ol d F ir e Dog s f or S amul s k i As the summer skies fill with smoke from wildland fires, we here in Montezuma County can feel relieved that we have a candidate for county commissioner who understands wildfires, Rebecca Samulski. Samulski served as the Montezuma Coordinator for FireWise of Southwest Colorado for nearly 8 years before becoming director of Fire Adapted Colorado. She helped residents with defensible space plans for their private properties and secured federal and state funds to carry out risk reduction projects throughout the area. Wildfires in recent years have tested her efforts which helped save homes, outbuildings, and possibly people’s lives from wildfires. What a breath of fresh air it will be if Samulski is elected as a new, knowledgeable, capable, and independent county commissioner.

“Over the years it’s been frustrating to hear one of our commissioners complain about the alleged misguided wildland fire policy of our local land management agencies. The National Fire Plan and Cohesive Strategy for Wildland Fire Management focus on managing fires for the best benefit, incorporating the best available science and making safety of firefighters and the public the top priority. It emphasizes the Wildland Urban Interface, the creation of defensible space around homes to help our communities better prepare for, respond to, and recover from wildfires. Rebecca understands and works toward communities that can live safely with fires.” – Fred Bird, retired National Wildfire Operations Specialist, Department of the Interior “I’ve known Becca since she was a young girl living in Mesa Verde National VOT E 2 0 20

Park. When we planned hazardous fuels reduction in the headquarters area, many of the residents, including Becca, were opposed to the project. In subsequent years, four wildfires threatened the area. These events changed Becca’s perspective. She became an advocate for fire prevention and fuels mitigation. Last fall, she responded with Dolores Volunteer Fire to a fast moving fire in my neighborhood. This time she was the one with the chainsaw.

Becca has spent nearly her entire life in Montezuma County. She understands the core beliefs and values of its residents. I have always known her to be impartial and objective in her analysis of a problem or situation. For these reasons I believe Becca is the best candidate.” - Tim Oliverius, retired Fire Management Officer, Mesa Verde National Park 1990-2001 “I first met Becca Samulski at a Montezuma County Fire Chiefs’ meeting and we coordinated on projects when she ran the FireWise program. Her foresight, perseverance, and high ability to build a consensus have left Montezuma County far more prepared for wildfire emergencies. I wholeheartedly recommend Becca. Her fresh perspective will serve us well.” – Steve Underwood, retired Fire Management Officer, Mesa Verde National Park 2011-2017 “As the FireWise Coordinator for Southwest Colorado and with her other work across the county, Becca has proven that she has the professionalism and leadership skills to be an outstanding county commissioner.” - Allen Farnsworth, retired Fire Management Officer, Mesa Verde National Park 2007- 2010” Paid for by Old Fire Dogs for Samulski EL EC T ION S E L E CT I ON

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V O T E R R E G I S T R AT I O N

Prepare for the general election by updating personal information Voting is one way an individual can affect change on a larger scale. In order to participate in local, state and national elections, it is important to be registered to vote under the correct address. In Colorado and New Mexico, residents can register to vote in person, online or by mail.

First, review the qualifications to register based on your current residency.

WHO CAN VOTE COLORADO QUALIF ICATION S: • You must be a citizen of the United States.

• You must be a resident of Colorado for at least 22 days preceding the election.

• You must be at least 16 years of age to register to vote. You may be at least 17 and turning 18 years of age on or before the date of the next general election to be eligible to vote in a primary election, and at least 18 to vote in other elections.

• You must not be serving a sentence of detention or confinement for a felony conviction.

NE W M E X I CO Q UALIF ICATION S: • You must be a citizen of the United States.

• You must be a resident of the state of New Mexico.

• You must be at least 18 years of age at the time of the next election.

• You must not have been denied the right to vote by a court of law by reason of mental incapacity.

• You must have completed all conditions of probation or parole, served the entirety of sentence or have been granted a pardon by the Governor if convicted of a felony.

HOW TO REGISTER IN PER SO N

There are several locations where residents can register to vote in person. Visit the county clerk and recorder’s office in your community, or any state office, including the Driver’s License Office. Applications must include proper identification, so remember to bring a valid form of identification to one of the following locations.

Colorado also allows in-person registration with valid identification on the day of the election. However, the deadline to register to vote in the 2020 general election for New Mexico residents is Oct. 6.

ONLINE Colorado and New Mexico both offer online registration.

Register to vote in Colorado using the form online at www. sos.state.co.us. New Mexico residents can register online at www.sos.state.nm.us. Online registration for each state requires individuals to have a valid driver’s license, social security card or state-issued ID card from the Department of Revenue.

The deadline to register online is Oct. 6 in New Mexico and Oct. 26 in Colorado.

BY MAIL To register by mail, download and print a voter registration form or pick up a form at the county clerk and recorder’s office. Complete the registration form and return to your local election office by the state’s deadline (listed above).

UPDAT ING INFORMATION

To receive your ballot in the mail, it’s important to update voter registration information. To update your information with ease, go online to www.sos.state.co.us for Colorado registration or www.sos.state.nm.us for New Mexico registration. Residents may update their address and party affiliation as well as verify other information.

BALLOT TRACKER Now, individuals can track more than packages and pizza. With BallotTrax, voters can choose to receive a call, email or text to stay up-to-date with the status of their ballot during elections. To sign up for ballot tracking, go to www.ballottrax.net/voter. La Plata County residents can sign up at www.laplatavotes.com.

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VOTE 20 20

VA L I D I D E N T I F I C AT I O N : • A valid driver’s license • A valid U.S. passport

• A paycheck from a government institution or private company

• A valid identification card issued by the Department of Revenue

• A certificate of degree of Indian or Alaskan Native Blood

• A valid military identification card with photograph

• A valid Medicare or Medicaid card issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services

• A valid pilot’s license • A valid employee identification card with a photograph issued by any government entity • A copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck or other government document that shows the name and address of the individual • Documentation from a public institution of higher education in Colorado containing name, date of birth and legal residence address. This includes the following bullet points in the next column:

• A certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate • A valid student identification card with a photograph issued by an institute of higher education • A valid veteran identification card with photograph issued by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

It’s time for a commissioner who understands both rural AND urban citizens.

• A valid identification card issued by a federally recognized tribal government certifying tribal membership note:

In order to vote in person, electors must have one of the above forms of identification.

Voters that are unable to provide a valid form of identification at the time of voting will be allowed to vote using a provisional ballot.

JOHN J. HERNANDEZ CANDIDATE FOR EMPIRE ELECTRIC BOARD DISTRICT #4

Maintaining Balance Between Board and Members EXPERIENCE COUNTS...AND SO DOES YOUR VOTE! Paid for by John Hernandez

VOT E 2 0 20

EL EC T ION S E L E CT I ON

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COLORADO BALLOT

State ballot measures for the 2020 election PROPOSITION EE: TOBACCO AND NICOTINE TAXES

This year, voters across the state of Colorado can expect to cast their votes to approve or deny ballot measures.

The outcome of the election will affect things like future elections, health care and taxes. These ballot measures include initiatives led by citizens and the state legislature. Here’s a quick round up of the issues included on the 2020 ballot.

If approved, this measure will tax nicotine products used for vaping equally to other tobacco and nicotine products, which will be incrementally raised to 22% of the listed manufacturer’s price. This measure will also increase the cigarette tax by up to 9 cents per cigarette.

PROPOSITION 113: NATIONAL POPULAR VOTE In 2019, citizens led an effort to put this issue on the 2020 ballot to overturn a bill that was passed and signed in 2019. If approved, this ballot measure will allow the state of Colorado to cast electoral votes for the winner of the national popular vote instead of the winner of the state popular vote.

AMENDMENT 76: CITIZEN QUALIFICATION OF ELECTORS

PROPOSITION 114: REINTRODUCTION OF GRAY WOLVES

AMENDMENT C: CONDUCT OF CHARITABLE GAMING

If approved, this measure will change wording in the Colorado State Constitution to ensure that only citizens can vote in elections and prevents cities from allowing noncitizens to vote in local elections.

If this initiative is approved, the measure would task Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission with developing a management plan to reintroduce gray wolves starting in 2023.

If approved by voters during the general election, this ballot measure will not only reduce the length of time an organization must be in business before obtaining a charitable gaming license, but also allow charitable gaming license holders to hire people to operate and manage games.

PROPOSITION 115: BAN ON ABORTIONS AT 22 WEEKS If approved, this ballot measure will make it illegal to perform an abortion beginning at 22 weeks in a pregnancy, with an exception if a mother’s life is physically threatened.

PROPOSITION 117: VOTER APPROVAL REQUIREMENT FOR FEE-BASED ENTERPRISES This measure, if approved, requires voter approval for the creation of any new state program with projected or actual revenue expected to exceed $100 million in its first five years.

AMENDMENT B: GALLAGHER AMENDMENT REPEAL The 1982 Gallagher Amendment set residential and commercial property tax rates in the state constitution. If the measure to repeal the 1982 Gallagher Amendment is approved, it will allow the Colorado State Legislature to freeze property tax assessment rates at the current rates and provide future property tax assessment rate adjustments through state law.

PROPOSITION 116: STATE INCOME TAX RATE REDUCTION If approved, this measure would cut the state’s income tax rate from 4.63% to 4.55%.

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ELECTION SELEC TI ON

PROPOSITION 118: PAID FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE

EL E C T I ON S E L E C T I O N

This measure will create a statewide program through the collection of insurance premiums from employers and employees if approved to allow an individual to take paid family medical leave for up to 12 weeks a year.

AMENDMENT 77: LOCAL CASINO BETTING LIMITS This amendment will allow voters to change the gaming limits in their gaming districts if approved.

VOTE 20 20

Your ticket OUT of 2020!

Local: Local:

or Marsha Porter-Norton, La Plata County Commissioner, District 2 Vote f ! marshaporternorton.com BOTH

National: National:

Matt Salka, La Plata County Commissioner, District 3 mattsalka.com

hickenlooper.com

Diane Mitsch Bush, US House

Barbara McLachlan, CO House District 59

dianeforcolorado.com

Christian Champaign, CO 6th Judicial Court

LEARN MORE ABOUT BALLOT MEASURES!

◀

barbaramclachlan.com

maylingforschools.com

joebiden.com

John Hickenlooper, US Senate

State: State:

Mayling Simpson, CO Board of Education

Joe Biden, President Kamala Harris, Vice President

laplatadems.org/voter-info/2020-ballot

Your Future. Your Voice. Your Vote.

Paid for by the La Plata County Democrats, Carol Cure, registered agent, not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee.

NEW MEXICO BALLOT

Five initiatives to review for the 2020 general election New Mexico citizens can expect to approve or deny a short list of proposed legislation this year. How individuals vote on these initiatives led by citizens and the state legislature will primarily affect future elections, legislation and public services. Here’s a quick round up of the amendments and bond issues on the 2020 ballot.

B O N D Q UE ST I O N B : PU BL I C L I BR AR I E S

A MENDMEN T 2 : E LE CTIO N A ND TERM S OF O FFICE HOLD E R S

If this amendment is approved, it would allow for laws that adjust the date of election and term for non-statewide office holders.

If approved, this amendment would change the number of members of the Public Regulation Commission from five to three. It would also allow those members to be nominated by the governor and chosen from a list instead of being elected from districts.

BOND Q UEST ION C: P U B LI C ED U CAT IO N

B O N D Q UE ST I O N A: SE N I O R C I T I Z E N S FAC I L I T I E S

This initiative issues $156.3 million in bonds for public higher education institutions, special public schools and tribal schools.

VOT E 2 0 20

This initiative issues $9.7 million in bonds for public libraries.

AM E N DM E N T 1 : PU BL I C R E G U L AT I O N CO MMI SSI O N

This initiative issues $33.3 million in bonds for senior citizen facility improvements.

EL EC T ION S E L E CT I ON

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LA PLATA county

COMMISSIONER

JACK TURNER

DURANGO UNAFFILIATED jack@electjackturner.com (970) 903-0813 P.O. Box 1151, Durango 81302

DURANGO n DEMOCRAT marshaporternorton@gmail.com (970) 403-5680

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT CHALLENGES ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT TO ADDRESS? AND HOW DO YOU PLAN TO ADDRESS THOSE ISSUES?

WHAT IS YOUR MOTIVATION FOR SEEKING THIS POSITION?

I aspire to change the role of commissioner from being a political office won through party politics, to a service-oriented role open to all citizens’ voices.

We must ask more from commissioners, but we must also ask more of ourselves. We can be better, but the first order of business is to do a better job of getting along. The work of the people is best accomplished through respect, collaboration, thinking, and putting in the hard work to achieve great works and thrive through the challenges that come our way, whether the issues are economic, social, or a result of nature.

WHAT CHARACTERISTICS OR QUALIFICATIONS DO YOU BELIEVE MAKE YOU A GOOD FIT FOR THIS POSITION?

Independence, fairness, inclusion, common sense, creativity, an open mind, listening, judgment, experience (both successes and failures), tenacity, a high pain threshold, and six generations of Durango family history that’s grounded me both personally and professionally.

When I say, I will listen and serve without obligation or favor to any political party or special interest group, I mean it. I have no political debts to pay.

And I have a sense of humor – sorely lacking in these times. It’s supposed to be fun to live in La Plata County.

TELL US A LITTLE MORE ABOUT YOURSELF.

I’m left-handed. That may be unusual to state here, but left-handed people learn to live in a world built for right-handed people.

We adapt as needed because it’s impossible to demand our own preference at all times. In my case, I’m ambidextrous for many tasks.

The point is that I’ve always been a person to adapt, reinvent, seek new ways, and get along with others that aren’t just like me. Cooperation and compromise, when needed, are a way of life for lefties. It’s an art that’s been lost, especially in today’s world of party politics.

My website has a list of my life experiences, work, accomplishments, and even a few failures. Learn why dishwasher, carpenter, athlete, Olympic official, author, network television commentator, entrepreneur, filmmaker, expedition leader, historian, cryptocurrency technical writer, muckraker, dad, husband, and friend are on the same resume.

Send an email, phone call, or text me if you have comments, suggestions, or questions.

IMPORTANT TO ADDRESS? AND HOW DO YOU PLAN TO ADDRESS THOSE ISSUES?

WHAT IS YOUR MOTIVATION FOR SEEKING THIS POSITION?

I will work for healthy communities and a strong economy. During these challenging times, I offer voters proven leadership and an ability to bring people together.

WHAT CHARACTERISTICS OR QUALIFICATIONS DO YOU BELIEVE MAKE YOU A GOOD FIT FOR THIS POSITION?

I am a professional meeting facilitator with 28 years of experience in mediating public conflict and helping diverse groups find common solutions. This, along with volunteering on 10 nonprofit boards and commissions, has prepared me to address complex issues the county faces such as water, land use, wildfire, human services, infrastructure, budgets and more. I have facilitated over 1,300 meetings with 100 groups.

In my work, I facilitated the Hermosa Creek Workgroup, a bipartisan effort for the Hermosa Watershed Protection Act of 2014 that balanced ecology, the economy and recreation, and conserved 107,886 acres.

I served as the first coordinator for Firewise Southwest Colorado (now Wildfire Adapted Partnership) and helped start the Neighborhood Ambassador Program which mobilizes for wildfire safety.

For six years, I led a regional nonprofit, Operation Healthy Communities, which created the State of Colorado’s first localized livable wage index. We also helped get more primary health care services here.

My leadership and skills in building partnerships have been recognized by Leadership La Plata, Boys and Girls Club, Axis Health System and the Colorado State Forest Service.

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT CHALLENGES ARE THE MOST

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ELECTION SELEC TI ON

2

MARSHA PORTER-NORTON

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Safety and security for citizens and visitors, our economy, land use, attainable housing, employment & wages, food security (local agriculture), neighbors in need, wise use of natural resources, the environmental impact we create, financial accountability / transparency, and proactive care for our land, air, water and wildlife.

These issues can’t be addressed in short paragraphs, but you can check my website or contact me directly.

Full disclosure: I don’t have all the answers, but I’ll work with elected officials, county employees and you to chart our course.

district

Grow good jobs: I am for a thriving, diversified economy and support light industrial business park(s) and targeted jobcreation areas; improving county land use planning; obtaining more broadband services; keeping the airport and tourism strong; and diversifying the economy to renewable energy, creative arts, health services, sustainable outdoor recreation and value-added timber, food and agricultural products.

Affordable housing: We need more housing for young families, workers and seniors on fixed incomes. I will work with all stakeholders to put in place a county-wide affordable housing plan/investment strategy with measurable targets and do-able projects.

Smart growth: The county is projected to grow to 70,000 people by 2030. So, I will work to ensure the new Land Use Code is successfully implemented. We must minimize sprawl and keep La Plata County special while also honoring neighborhoods, private property rights and supporting agriculture.

Infrastructure: I will work hard to keep the county’s largest asset, its roads and bridges, in good shape, safe and ready for the future.

COVID-19 response: I will stand up for small businesses, public health and the provision of vital services since counties are central to pandemic response. Also, County Commissioners must advocate for residents whenever necessary as we move to COVID-19 stabilization and eventual recovery.

TELL US A LITTLE MORE ABOUT YOURSELF.

I grew up on a cattle ranch and farm north of Cortez. I am a fourth generation southwest Colorado native. In 1986, I graduated from Colorado State University and then in 1989, from the University of Denver. I have degrees in social work with an emphasis on nonprofit management and community development.

My husband John is an MAI Commercial Real Estate Appraiser and a Fort Lewis College graduate. We both moved here in our early 30s and started our own businesses from scratch. I love pets, being with my family, exploring the great outdoors, nature photography and travel.

VOTE 20 20

LA PLATA county

COMMISSIONER

CHARLY MINKLER

IGNACIO UNAFFILIATED charly@minkler forcommissioner.com

WHAT IS YOUR MOTIVATION FOR SEEKING THIS POSITION?

I love La Plata County and want our children and grandchildren to be able to live here if they choose, have the option of career employment and enjoy it tomorrow as much as we do today.

WHAT CHARACTERISTICS OR QUALIFICATIONS DO YOU BELIEVE MAKE YOU A GOOD FIT FOR THIS POSITION?

My many years of service to the community combined with my experience as a business owner, rancher and planning commissioner have enabled me to be an effective leader who will make a positive difference for our future. An agricultural perspective has been missing from county leadership for years, and my intimate knowledge of the district plans and the new land use code make me a qualified and knowledgeable candidate who will fairly represent all citizens of our county. I am fiscally conservative, but am not afraid to invest in the future of our county, especially in areas that will bring stability in housing and jobs to county residents.

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT CHALLENGES ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT TO ADDRESS? AND HOW DO YOU PLAN TO ADDRESS THOSE ISSUES?

Housing affordability, economic development and community unity. I support government funded programs and nonprofit organizations that help assist with mortgage or rent subsidies, but the better and long-term solution is to help close the wage gap to affordability. I believe this is best done by making La Plata County a more business-friendly environment. I will help

VOT E 2 0 20

TELL US A LITTLE MORE ABOUT YOURSELF.

I am a fourth generation Coloradan. I have lived in La Plata County since 1982.

My wife Katie and I own and operate Stone Peak Ranch, east of Ignacio. In addition to ranching, I have been in the residential construction business for over 30 years. I am an avid outdoorsman and love hiking, backpacking, fly fishing and horseback riding throughout our beautiful San Juan Mountains.

I have served or am serving in the following capacities: • Board of directors of Spring Creek Community Association for 22 years, Vice President for six years • Board of directors of Home Builders Association of Southwest Colorado for nine years, President in 2004 • La Plata County Southeast District Planning Committee 2018 to present • La Plata County Farm Bureau Board of Directors since 2016, President from 2018 to present • La Plata Civil Dialog core group 2018 to present • Leadership La Plata class of 2019-2020 • La Plata County Planning Commission 2015 to present

3

M AT T SA L K A

BAYFIELD n DEMOCRAT matt@mattsalka.com (970) 946-5498 www.mattsalka.com

n

established businesses grow and stay in our county, and make it an attractive place for businesses offering higher paying, career-type employment.

It has been over 30 years since a commissioner has been elected that is in production agriculture in my district, where much, if not most, of the ag production in our county takes place. It’s time to elect a commissioner who represents all citizens of the county – both rural and urban. I have worked hard to bring city and country folks together and help them understand each other in an effort to help heal the so-called urban-rural divide in our county, and I will continue to do so. I strive to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and viewpoints, and have conversations that result in decisions that make our county a better place to live, recreate and do business.

I will offer citizen-minded leadership.

district

WHAT IS YOUR MOTIVATION FOR SEEKING THIS POSITION?

The job of County Commissioner offers the opportunity of serving the community on a much larger scale. I want to work with my fellow commissioners to restore unity into solving the problems of La Plata County.

As commissioners, we need to stop thinking about party affiliation and only about the needs of the people we serve.

WHAT CHARACTERISTICS OR QUALIFICATIONS DO YOU BELIEVE MAKE YOU A GOOD FIT FOR THIS POSITION?

My experience as Mayor of Bayfield, town trustee, member of the planning commission, owner of a small business and board member of La Plata Economic Alliance, I was able to solve a range of diverse problems. As county commissioner, I would be doing this on a much grander scale. I am the only candidate with this experience.

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT CHALLENGES ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT TO ADDRESS? AND HOW DO YOU PLAN TO ADDRESS THOSE ISSUES?

COVID-19 is a dominant issue our community is facing right now. The first issue I would address is working together with our great organizations, like La Plata Economic Alliance, Region 9, BID and our Chambers throughout La Plata County ¬– get them all to the table and come up with a plan to

help assist our many businesses throughout the county. Our local businesses need our help more than ever. We need to secure the success of their future to help keep jobs in La Plata County. In turn, this will assist our many residents who work hard to earn a living here.

Come up with a plan and implement it.

Second, I would address affordable and attainable housing for first time homebuyers.

I know all too well how tight this housing market is. I believe there are ways to create affordable housing for first time homebuyers, and I want to be a part of that. My experience with Bayfield’s planning commission has helped me understand that there needs to be a better relationship between developers, landowners and government. We have many great organizations that can help assist with these important issues with housing. Without good paying jobs, we will not be able to address affordability.

Third, Infrastructure is key to smart growth! Our county roads and bridges need to stay maintained. As mayor, I helped secure a $1 million grant for a waterline replacement project, after a meeting with the Department of Local Affairs expressing how important this project was for Bayfield. We need to work on our Road and Bridge department, with a $1.5 million shortfall each year. As county commissioner, you can count on me to seek grants and strategic partnerships, and always look out for La Plata’s best interests when it comes to infrastructure. These experiences have taught me how to make real progress. I want to help keep La Plata County moving in the right direction so our current and future residents enjoy where we all call home.

TELL US A LITTLE MORE ABOUT YOURSELF.

I came to realize during my time as Mayor of Bayfield that public service is my true passion. Solving problems and thereby making people’s lives better in whatever way I can is what I want to dedicate my life to achieving.

EL EC T ION S E L E CT I ON

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MONTEZUMA county COMMISSIONER district 3

R E B E CC A SA M U L SK I MANCOS

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UNAFFILIATED

becca@samulski4montezuma.com (970) 812-8056 www.samulski4montezuma.com

MEET BECCA OPPORTUNITIES ONLINE:

WHAT IS YOUR MOTIVATION FOR SEEKING THIS POSITION?

samulski4montezuma.com and Facebook Samulski4montezuma

I love Montezuma County. I want to serve all of its people and help the area sustain us through current and future generations.

“We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.”

- Albert Einstein.

UNAFFILIATED • OPEN MIND • COMMON GROUND • A REAL CHOICE •

Paid for by Samulski for Montezuma

WHAT CHARACTERISTICS OR QUALIFICATIONS DO YOU BELIEVE MAKE YOU A GOOD FIT FOR THIS POSITION?

Colorado currently allows abortion to the moment of birth for any reason.

Consider the science…

At 22 weeks a baby… … is 11-12 inches long, weighing just over 1 pound. … perceives light and darkness. … has rapid eye movements that indicate dreaming. … is able to hear the sound of mom’s heartbeat and rumbling tummy. … is able to grab umbilical cord with a strong grip of perfect fingers. … is able to intentionally inhale and exhale amniotic fluid. … is perfectly proportioned to look like a newborn.

This child can live outside the womb.

Facts and humanity agree we must have boundaries, protecting both mother and child.

Sponsored by:

Please visit my web page at www.samulski4montezuma.com to discover how my background has led me to this moment to guide our county toward a bright future we can build together with local resources and local solutions.

I’ve participated in and led too many community projects to list here, including work with many boards. I have worked in wildfire preparedness and response, local planning, nonprofit leadership, archaeology and local service businesses. Since graduating from MCHS, I’ve earned a bachelor’s degree. in Anthropology from Fort Lewis College and a masters in Political Science from the University of Colorado. I’m young enough to have grown up here during the information age and old enough to know the value of a handshake. I intend to serve full-time as a commissioner.

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT CHALLENGES ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT TO ADDRESS? AND HOW DO YOU PLAN TO ADDRESS THOSE ISSUES?

The comprehensive plan for Montezuma County is 25 years old and collecting dust on a shelf. It’s time to build a new, shared vision to align policies, programs, and the county budget to support our future needs and desires. This includes stewarding the land, water, and economy that sustain us.

I will strive to make our county a great place to work and support staff on their initiatives to improve department service delivery.

These are very challenging times for a lot of people in our community when it comes to jobs, food and housing security, impossible choices between staying employed versus protecting family, and fear of being admonished for wearing or not wearing a mask.

As we work our way out of the current crisis, the community deserves a leader who respects all people , will work hard and listen deeply to understand diverse perspectives and make decisions that serve the whole community.

TELL US A LITTLE MORE ABOUT YOURSELF.

My dad, Everett Whitehead, a U.S. Army and NPS law-enforcement veteran, moved us to Mesa Verde before I turned one. My mom, Sue, provided speech therapy in Montezuma and nearby Diné schools. They instilled in me the values of service to others and community involvement.

I grew up, got an education and am blessed to be raising two sons here with my husband, Joe. He keeps the kids learning and growing, the garden green, meat in the freezer, vehicles running and owns a residential inspection business. We live south of Summit Ridge in the home my parents built after moving down from the park in 1995.

On top of individual economic hardships, a projected CO2 bust cycle and public budget cuts make it essential to support local businesses and diversify industry, tourism, and agriculture.

VOTE YES ON PROPOSITION 115.by: Sponsored

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ELECTION SELEC TI ON

Sponsored by:

VOTE 20 20

ARCHULETA county

COMMISSIONER

WARREN BROWN

ARCHULETA COUNTY UNAFFILIATED

info@electwarrenbrown.com

WHAT IS YOUR MOTIVATION FOR SEEKING THIS POSITION?

Archuleta County needs a strong, central point of leadership on the Board of County Commissioners. We need commissioners to look for solution-based alternatives to leverage resources that help us overcome challenges as a community. Moreover, we need a commissioner with the courage to do things differently. I know I can fill each of these needs and help our community be a better place to live and to work.

WHAT CHARACTERISTICS OR QUALIFICATIONS DO YOU BELIEVE MAKE YOU A GOOD FIT FOR THIS POSITION?

I believe honesty and integrity is a must.

Commissioners should have education and experience in government and business, if possible. A commissioner must effectively communicate with diverse audiences and be willing to view issues from a different point of view.

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT CHALLENGES ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT TO ADDRESS? AND HOW DO YOU PLAN TO ADDRESS THOSE ISSUES?

Archuleta County’s greatest challenges are the maintenance and replacement of roadways and anchor institutions, broadband service and tax revenue.

These symptoms are largely attributed to the absence of a well-thought-out countywide, written and communicated strategic plan. If the county lacks a common direction, the tools to evaluate our performance at specific milestones and regular communication with county department heads, elected officials and local stakeholders, we will continue to get what we always get, a lot of talk and no results.

I plan to have an active role on the Board of County Commissioners, working with the VOT E 2 0 20

TELL US A LITTLE MORE ABOUT YOURSELF.

Born and raised in a small mountain town in western Colorado, I come from a blue collar family and know the value of hard work, honesty and compassion for others. I put myself through college and earned a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Columbia Southern University.

I am the proud father of three children, who are now adults. My seven-year-old granddaughter represents my family’s fifth generation in Colorado. My wife Jody Brown and I live a relatively quiet, but busy life with our dog Joey and cat Blu. My career in Public Safety began over 27 years ago. Presently, I serve the community as the Operations Commander for the Archuleta County Sheriff’s Office. In addition to working at the Sheriff’s Office, Jody and I own an Insurance Agency in Pagosa Springs.

I love working side-by-side with Jody, trying to build a successful business that serves our community. As a business owner, I support Pagosa Springs High School Booster Club, the Girl’s Choir, Pagosa Springs Youth Center, Archuleta County Special Olympics, various Rotary Club projects and the Humane Society.

Serving others is an integral part of who I am. I immersed myself in several grassroots community service projects including: • Safe School Now Team • Archuleta County Multi-Disciplinary Team • Child Protection Team • Collaborative Community Response Team • Elementary Volunteer Reading program • Archuleta County School District Funding Task Force

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M AT T H E W W I T T

ARCHULETA COUNTY REPUBLICAN

other commissioners and county staff, to set a vision for our community documented within a strategic plan and regularly communicate county-wide.

With a plan in place, we will be better suited to secure funds over and above current tax revenues, prioritize maintenance and replacement needs, and plan for the creation and installation of additional broadband resources.

Our county will be better situated to recruit companies that create and sustain a more diversified tax base to better serve residents.

district

wittforarchuleta county@gmail.com IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT CHALLENGES ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT TO ADDRESS? AND HOW DO YOU PLAN TO ADDRESS THOSE ISSUES?

WHAT IS YOUR MOTIVATION FOR SEEKING THIS POSITION?

I believe the needs of the Archuleta County residents have been sidelined, and I want to put them first again. I want their voices heard.

Population growth has caused tourists to reach numbers which are eroding our sense of community. The community that we love is being threatened by the greed of special interests, some of which do not reside in Archuleta County.

I also feel like Archuleta County is being taken advantage of by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Our hunting and fishing grounds get abused, and politicians don’t seem to care. It’s time for all that to stop.

I also want to protect our ranching and farming community, and make sure the petroleum industry is carefully checked and monitored. There are no excuses for polluting hay fields and groundwater.

WHAT CHARACTERISTICS OR QUALIFICATIONS DO YOU BELIEVE MAKE YOU A GOOD FIT FOR THIS POSITION?

My sense of community is my best qualification. The time I have spent and the thousands of miles I have traveled on the trails, rivers and slopes across the San Juan Mountains nurtured a spirit of conservation and respect for the landscape in my heart.

I have worked many jobs, including washing dishes as a starving college student, loving life as a Piedra/Upper Animas Guide, saving companies hundreds of thousands of dollars in operating costs as an on-site geologist and wrangling. These experiences have shaped my belief in community values, being fiscally responsible and conservation. I see the bad and the good in industries that are the backbone of our community.

Irresponsible development is the major issue threatening our community. If we let certain special interests have their way, we will end up with smaller elk herds and no fish in the rivers, while housing prices will remain beyond what a young family can afford, trash will become commonplace in the forest and our sense of community will be completely destroyed.

The first thing we need to do is stop using taxpayer funds to market Archuleta County.

We are at maximum capacity for visitors already. Second, we need to pass our tax burden onto the visitors. Tourists need to pay for their use and abuse of our infrastructure.

Third, our county officials need to work for the people by getting the state and federal government to provide us the funds we deserve. Fourth, we need to address the issue of affordable housing caused by the residential vacation rentals market. Working people can hardly afford to live in Archuleta County due to low wages and an inflated real estate market.

TELL US A LITTLE MORE ABOUT YOURSELF.

I stay pretty busy raising my two small children and working, but I like to get at least 30-plus days of skiing in a winter. I also try to get 10 raft trips a year down the Piedra River during snowmelt.

Most of my friends will tell you that I talk about rocks too much, which makes sense because I have a Bachelor of Science in geology from Fort Lewis. I love field trips.

• Pagosa Springs Noon Rotary Club EL EC T ION S E L E CT I ON

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WOMEN’S SUFFRAGE

A long road to women’s suffrage This year marks the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment granting women the right to vote. Indeed, it is a landmark event, and a compelling story including over three generations of suffragists.

If results from La Plata County pointed at the state’s outcome, the referendum would have lost in 1893 as well. As one of the few precincts to vote against suffrage, the vote in La Plata County was 397 for, 791 against.

E ARLY VOTING AND ULTERIOR MOTIVES

PUSHING FOR PROGRESS

In 1870, Wyoming beat other states to the punch, granting women the right to vote 50 years before the passage of the 19th Amendment while it was still a territory.

However, this change wasn’t necessarily in support of women’s rights. According to Laramie Plains Museum docent Kim Viner, ulterior motives led to women receiving the right to vote in Wyoming. These motivations included keeping Black men away from the ballot box and increasing voter numbers to give the sparsely populated territory a better shot at statehood.

Colorado granted women the right to vote in November 1893. It was the fifth state to permit women to vote, beating the nation to it by almost a quarter of a century. The referendum was the first in the nation to pass by popular vote with an all-male electorate.

Women in La Plata County were already active in the community. Historian and Fort Lewis College Professor Duane Smith wrote “… Women stood in the forefront of various reform, cultural and educational movements, even though relegated to the position of second-class citizens with no vote,” in a Durango Herald column in November 1993.

So when it came to suffrage, these women already knew what to do.

“Durango women did not lag behind - they organized, distributed literature and worked enthusiastically for the cause,” Smith wrote.

The Woman Suffrage League held several meetings on the subject that filled local meeting rooms and the district courthouse.

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ELECTION SELEC TI ON

What happened after the 1893 victory is as important as the passage itself. The “Herald” had changed its tune by the first citywide election in April 1894, women’s first opportunity to cast a ballot.

BY A N N B U T L E R

the day,” Smith wrote. “No one of those ‘newly granted the franchise’ was denied that prerogative because of the ‘absences of the means of transportation.’ Despite its earlier comments, the ‘Herald’ proudly observed on April 4 that yesterday’s election approached a nearer full registration turnout ‘than any ever cast in this city.’”

Colorado women didn’t rest after earning the right to vote themselves. They supported passage of the 19th Amendment so women across the U.S. could have the same right, sending women to marches, mounting billboards and supporting lobbying efforts.

A LONG WAY TO GO

“They prepared by having ‘an exclusively ladies’ meeting’ where city politics would be discussed,” Smith reported in his research. “No gentlemen would be admitted.”

The “Herald” encouraged women to vote early and “avoid the rush.”

“Election coverage noted that most women went to the polls in groups,” Smith wrote, “and a few had the ‘temerity to face the judges of election alone.’ The number of women who voted surprised even those men who had ‘confidently asserted that the right would not be generally exercised.’”

Strong efforts were made to deliver women to the polling places.

“Carriages, sponsored by candidates and political parties, filled the streets throughout

The passage of the amendment didn’t end the quest for suffrage in America. Minority women didn’t gain full voting rights for decades in some cases. Native American women could head to the ballot box in 1924, although it wasn’t until 1962 that all the states enfranchised them. Asian-Americans couldn’t gain citizenship, and thus voting rights, until 1952. And even though the 19th Amendment didn’t include restrictions for black women, it wasn’t until the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that Jim Crow laws in the south and systemic racism stopped suppressing black voters with literacy tests, poll taxes and other measures.

“To this day, obstacles to voting persist, leading to a new generation of politicians, such as Georgia’s Stacy Abrams to take up the fight against voter suppression,” wrote FLC Professor Kate Smith and Kathy Fine-Dare.

WOMEN LE ADING THE WAY

Colorado women, including those in La Plata county, continue to exercise that right in force, surpassing men in both active registration numbers and votes cast in recent elections, according to La Plata County Clerk and Recorder Tiffany Parker and the Secretary of State’s published statistics.

VOTE 20 20

I am for:

Proven Leadership!

Healthy Communities and a Strong Economy Good Jobs and a Thriving Local Economy

ote

for La Plata County Commissioner

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Affordable Housing ote

Vital ote County Services ote

Public Health and Safety ote ote

Clean Energy ote ote

Smart Growth

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ote County Government plays a critical role in creating healthyotecommunities and a strong ote economy. I will bring steady, collaborative leadership during these challenging times.

Proven Experience. Proven Leadership. • 28 years as a public issues facilitator and mediator — bringing people together to solve problems • Helped launch Firewise Southwest Colorado (Wildfire Adapted Partnership)

• Managed the Hermosa Creek Workgroup to conserve 100,000 acres • Recognized for public service and leadership by: Leadership La Plata, Boys and Girls Club of La Plata County, Colorado State Forest Service, and Axis Health System

Dedicated to working together!

Marsha Porter-Norton, Democrat for La Plata County Commissioner 2020 – District 2 MarshaPorterNorton.com | Paid for by Marsha for Commissioner. Registered agent Marsha Porter-Norton.

THIS IS

Tori, Tootsie and Jack

AND THINGS ARE LOOKING UP! electjackturner.com

Your home and mine! I want to be your Commissioner because:

THAT’S A FACT

 Living here should make sense

My kids are sixth generation Durango natives in professional careers, and they tell me: “Dad, I’d love to move home, but I can’t afford to live there.” I will work to develop economic opportunity, affordable/attainable housing, livable wages, tech infrastructure for remote careers, and other initiatives to give people who call La Plata County home a chance to thrive.

 I know we need to balance growth with environmental impact

A good economy, jobs, and attainable housing are not an insurmountable conflict with responsible care for our land, air, water, and wildlife. Balance and common sense must be applied to our coexistence with nature and the responsibility to provide for our families.

 Maintaining what’s great about La Plata County means having the financial resources to do so

Local businesses, large and small, generate wealth for everyone in La Plata County. That’s how we create jobs, provide goods and services, support social programs, fund schools, and assist non-profit organizations. Our economic engines must be nurtured and encouraged, especially during difficult times.

 Food Security: Impossible? Or Impossible to Ignore?

Local agriculture cannot be dismissed or ignored. Eating local is as important as shopping local, but it’s only possible if we facilitate that opportunity. Multi-generational ranchers/ farmers, newly-minted agriculturalists, and home-based operations all have a place in our “local food chain.” There are many challenges to overcome, but the most critical is our willingness to be serious about the food supply, processing, storage, and distribution.

• 5th generation Durango native.

• Great-great grandfather, John C. Turner, elected County Commisioner (1876).

• Executive Board Member, Salt Lake Winter Games Organizing Committee.

• Content Creator — ABC, NBC, ESPN, Disney XD, Great Outdoors Colorado, U.S. Forest Service.

• 1982 Delegate, White House Conference on Small Business (appointed by Senator Orrin Hatch) • Author, Landscapes On Glass (Foreword by President Bill Clinton).

• U.S. Ski Team — Athlete, Coach, Administrator.

• Expedition Leader/Writer — TransWorld Snowboard Mag.

 And so much more

I want to help make common-sense decisions armed with the experience and insight of La Plata County Citizens. That’s why I will listen and serve without obligation or favor to any political parties or special interests. I have no political debts.

Paid by Elect Jack Turner Committee.