SHAMOKIN - Ten local Democrats who are candidates in the primary election presented their political platforms at a "Meet the Candidates" night held Thursday at the Knights of Columbus.
The event, sponsored by the Shamokin Area Democratic Women, gave candidates an opportunity to polish their remarks in a friendly atmosphere ahead of the May 21 primary. Candidates were allowed three minutes to present their plans for improving the area and their office, if elected.
Speaking at the event were Shamokin City Councilmen William Milbrand and R. Craig Rhoades, who are vying for the Democratic nomination for mayor. The current mayor, George Rozinskie Jr., who has held the position since 2010, is not seeking another term. The winner will face Republican Dan McGaw in November.
R. Craig Rhoades
Rhoades said he has a lot to offer the city, even though financial struggles have left it on a "thin line." He embraced Northumberland County's Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area, saying the community must look past a time when Shamokin had large industries that supported the city.
"We have been doing better in the past few years," Rhoades said of the financial situation. "I have served on council for 23 years. I enjoy this community. I love this community."
William Milbrand
Milbrand expressed pride in Shamokin and pledged to move the city forward by getting everyone on the same page.
Owner and operator of Catawese Coach Lines, Milbrand said his proudest day as owner was when he placed the words "SHAMOKIN, PA" on the sides of his buses.
"We need to get everyone on the right track and have a positive attitude toward the community," Milbrand said. "My sense of civic pride will help me carry the office of mayor."
Scott Anderson
Scott Anderson, a newcomer to the political scene, is the sole Democrat running for one of two seats on Shamokin Council. He acknowledged his non-experience when it comes to politics, but expressed interest in learning from his running mates.
"I am not a very political person," he said. "I want to take this opportunity to reach to out to you for your advice."
Other speakers
Additional speakers included Brenda Scandle, Shamokin City treasurer; James F. Kelley, county coroner; Craig Fetterman, Coal Township commissioner; Edward Griffiths, Shamokin Area School Board member; Diane Serafin, Shamokin Area School Board candidate; Meg Bartos, candidate for prothonotary, and Christopher Grayson, candidate for controller.
Griffiths said he is there for the students and that it takes the board as a whole to get things accomplished.
Serafin was a guidance counselor at Shamokin Area since 1980, and more recently, a social studies teacher. She pledged to provide an educator's perspective on the school board.
Register by Monday
The Shamokin Area Democratic Women do not endorse any candidates in the primary, but will put the full weight of the organization behind them in the general election, president Peggy Ferrari said.
"This was an opportunity for candidates to present what they have to offer to the public," she said. "Whoever is nominated we will back."
Pennsylvania is one of just 13 states that does not allow voters to participate in primary elections unless they are registered as Democrats or Republicans. Monday is the deadline to register to vote.