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Candidate Bios

Candidate Bios

The Seminole County Supervisor of Elections office has provided county and city-level candidates with the opportunity to post information about their campaign on this site. We have limited them to a photo, website, email address, phone number and short statement. We have not edited any of the content on the statements, and have not endorsed the content of any candidate's websites.

More information about state and federal candidates, as well as a customizable sample ballot are available through the Orlando Sentinel's online voter guide HERE.

The Carroll McKenney Foundation for Public Media has audio of many of the local candidate forums. Below are links to their latest editions relative to the Seminole County ballot:

Florida Constitutional Amendment

Judicial Review Meet the Candidates

Meet the School Board candidates

Meet the State Representative candidates


2010 Candidates

State House - Representative District #25

Rick Joyce (Republican)

PO Box 1681
Tavares, Florida 32778
Telephone: 407.697.6156

Rick Joyce is a longtime resident of Central Florida. As a mediation attorney and former CEO of the Dixon-Ticonderoga Company, he's qualified to lead the charge on restoring growth to Florida's economy. Rick's campaign will focus on economic policy aimed at helping to change the culture of government so that it's smaller and more responsive to its citizenry.

Larry Metz (Republican)

P.O. Box 57
Yalaha, Florida 34797-0057

Larry Metz is a lifelong Republican, former U.S. Marine, current business owner and private practicing attorney, and current Lake County School Board Member. He is a qualified and committed conservative who will fight to keep Florida a low tax state while fostering job creation, public safety, individual responsibility, strong traditional families, and equality of opportunity for citizens legally residing here.

State House - Representative District #33

Jason Brodeur (Republican)

400 Palmetto Ave.
Sanford, Florida 32771

As a business owner and conservative Republican, Jason Brodeur is seeking the State House District 33 seat. His priorities include improving our economy and attracting higher paying jobs, rejecting tax increases, improving schools by empowering parents, and defending our time-honored American values.

Leo Cruz (Democratic)

Telephone: 407.902.9853

Leo's experience in education and planning provides him valuable insight into the challenging issues facing Central Florida. He will work with business, community and environmental leaders to help reshape our economy toward a sustainable future and develop policies encouraging responsible development. He believes in making education a priority, to ensure the success of our children and our community.

James DeCocq (Republican)

1906 Torchwood Dr.
Orlando, Florida 32828
Telephone: 407.285.1776

Because there's No Time for On the Job Training: 15 Years Public/Private Government Creation and Administration; Thrice Assistant City Manager, Twice City Manager in Southeast Florida; Held Steady or Lowered Tax Rates throughout Tenure, while Bolstering Reserves and Expanding Services; Aided Administration of 150 Special Taxing Districts; Actively Managed 52 Community Development Districts with Cumulative Budgets of over $100 Million.

Franklin Perez (Libertarian)

4250 Alafaya Trail, #212-170
Oviedo, Florida 32765

Vote for REAL change in the Florida State Legislature! Vote for Franklin Perez! Libertarian and Independent! Not Beholden to Party Politics!

Alice Sterling (Republican)

I have lived and worked in this district for 20 years. I am committed to improving Florida's future. I feel confident that the voters in district 33 will recognize that I am a proven leader with a heart for service. It is time to take a new look at Florida's future.

State House - Representative District #34

Steve Barnes (Democratic)

400 West Crystal Drive
Sanford, Florida 32773

Steve is a small business owner, a former teacher and journalist and a long-time community volunteer. He fought against higher taxes and water bills and is working to bring new, good-paying jobs to Florida. A political outsider, Steve has the courage to stand up to the special interests and the integrity to represent this district with honor.

State Senate - Senator District #20

Alan Hays (Republican)

PO Box 2270
Umatilla, Florida 32784

It has been my privilege to serve in the Florida House since 2004. It is my desire to continue to serve the citizens of Seminole County in the Florida Senate. We need to reduce government spending to fit within our income and NOT raise taxes. Our government needs to encourage economic growth, quality education and security for our population.

State Senate - Senator District #22

David Simmons (Republican)

I am proud to have represented you in the Florida House of Representatives from 2000 - 2008. During this time I had a personal impact improving our education system, cutting taxes, and bringing jobs to Florida. I would like to continue this commitment to service as your State Senator.

State Senate - Senator District #24

Thad Altman (Republican)

6767 North Wickham Rd. #104
Melbourne, Florida 32940
Telephone: (321)622-6978

Government should live within its means just like everyone else. If revenues decline government should balance its budget by cutting spending, becoming more efficient and looking toward the private sector to provide services. Excessive government spending is one of the reasons we are facing economic problems today. It is important that we not unfairly burden Florida residences and businesses.

Bart Carmichael (Republican)

342 Carmel Drive
Melbourne, Florida 32940
Telephone: (321) 536-4924
I cannot stand by and watch an out-of-control government squander our children's future. I am a businessman, not a career politician. I have an undergraduate degree from the Wharton School of Business, University of Pennsylvania, a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Miami, Florida, and 25 years of business experience.

Steve Edmonds (NPA)

I have been a community activist for over a decade. I have been your voice on the Oviedo LPA. I was elected to the Seminole Soil and Water Conservation District. I served on Seminole County's Natural Lands Committee. It is time to make your voice heard in Tallahassee. The people of State Senate District 24 are my special interests.

County Commissioner - District 2

John Horan (Republican) QUALIFIED 2010-06-16

P.O. Box 623114
Oviedo, Florida 32762-3114
We are in extremely difficult economic times and we don't know what the future holds. However, we can meet our challenges if we elect leaders who are capable and competent and who really care about making local government more efficient and effective. I believe I am highly qualified to serve and I have the skills to make the Commission better.

Michael J. McLean (Republican) QUALIFIED 2010-06-14

378 Woldunn Circle
Lake Mary, Florida 32746

I am a Seminole County resident of more than 22 years. I have been awarded "Public Servant of the Year" in 2009 by the Seminole Regional Chamber and twice awarded "Small Business of the Year." I am focused on job growth, keeping taxes low and your services high. I encourage you to visit my website and ask for your vote.

County Commissioner - District 4

Win Adams (Republican) QUALIFIED 2010-06-14

646 Fellowship Drive
Fern Park, Florida 32730

Win Adams was a Seminole County Commissioner, 1994-98. During Win's tenure and leadership, we experienced major job and office building expansions near I-4. This new construction and capital investment increased the business property tax base percentage while lowering the residential property tax base. This provided additional funding for our Seminole County public schools, the best in Central Florida. Experience counts!

Donald Epps (Republican) QUALIFIED 2010-06-14

144 Peacock Drive
Altamonte Springs, Florida 32701
Telephone: 407-834-0728

Dedicated to Listening and Serving.

Carlton Henley (Republican) QUALIFIED 2010-06-14

1627 Orlando Avenue
Longwood, Florida 32750
Telephone: 407-260-0852

Carlton Henley has been Chairman of the Commission five times. Formerly, he was principal of Lyman High School for 31 years. He serves on the LYNX Board, Commuter Rail, Congress of Regional Leaders, and Tourism Development Council. During his tenure the county has been recognized for the lowest millage rates in the region.

School Board Member - District 1

Diane Bauer QUALIFIED 2010-06-16

423 Eagle Circle
Casselberry, Florida 32707
Telephone: 407-695-3552

The single most important vote we make as citizens is the vote we cast on behalf of a candidate running for school board. When we elect a candidate to represent us on the school board we are electing someone in whom we place the guardianship of our children. Thank you for your consideration, I ask for your vote.

Jesse Kamm (DID NOT QUALIFY)

P.O. Box 180205
Casselberry, Florida 32707

School Board Member - District 2

Paul J. Ackerman QUALIFIED 2010-06-15

1634 Tiverton Street
Winter Springs, Florida 32708

Karen Almond QUALIFIED 2010-06-14

P.O. Box 180006
Casselberry, Florida 32718

Involved, Informed, Invested. Let's put my 21 years of community service to work for you. My promise: "Back to basics" customer service that meets your expectations; expanded professional community involvement and partnerships; clear, relative and timely communication.

As your school board member, I will work hard and tirelessly, with a focus on current needs and a vision for the future.

School Board Member - District 5

Tina Calderone QUALIFIED 2010-06-15

P.O. Box 953491
Lake Mary, Florida 32795-3491
Telephone: 407-509-2346

Dr. Tina Calderone is a professional businesswoman with a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Florida. She has in-depth knowledge of how the school district operates with leadership and experience as a devoted parent and community leader. Her long-term commitment to the advancement of academics is seen through her progressive achievements and dedication with myriad boards of directors.

Becky Erwin QUALIFIED 2010-06-15

P.O. Box 952855
Lake Mary, Florida 32795

Becky will bring a business perspective and fresh leadership to our school board. As a business owner, Becky understands the processes of budgeting, employee retention and fiscal accountability. She wants to implement zero based budgeting and to push administrators to justify expenditures every year. Becky will not only be a vote, but a voice for protecting classrooms and fiscal responsibility.

Jeanne Morris QUALIFIED 2010-06-15

1921 Wingfield Drive
Longwood, Florida 32779
Telephone: 407-782-6592

Experience is critical, especially in difficult times when decisions made today will change our children's lives forever. I have been serving on the School Board and guided our district through many crises to become the A-rated school district it is today. I am a 36 year resident of Seminole County and I care passionately about the quality of life here.

Circuit Court Judge -- 18th Judicial, Group 16

Jeff Dowdy

720 W. SR 434
Winter Springs, Florida 32708

Jeff has 20 plus years as a lawyer in Seminole County and throughout the State of Florida. He has extensive litigation and trial experience while at the same time managing his private law practice. Jeff's wife, Darla, and their two children are deeply involved in their community. Experience, and years of it, is the answer to what makes a good judge for you, your family and your community.

Michael Rudisill

P.O. Box 471472
Lake Monroe, Florida 32747

Judge Rudisill began his career as prosecutor working with police and crime victims. Later, he defended the rights of his fellow citizens. Today, he brings his extensive litigation and trial experience to the bench in Sanford where he has handled criminal, civil, family, juvenile and probate matters. He is the only choice with proven prosecution, defense, and judicial experience.

Circuit Court Judge -- 18th Judicial, Group 24

Linda Schoonover

1301 South International Parkway, Suite 1041
Lake Mary, Florida 32746

As a Central Florida attorney for 25 years, Linda brings fresh ideas, leadership, and common sense to the bench. In addition to her extensive legal experience, she has managed her own law practice for more than 20 years. Her focus is to make the court more responsive and relevant to the needs of everyday people.

Clayton Simmons

Judge Simmons has been your Circuit Judge for 7 years and your Chief Judge for two years. Judge Simmons is the only choice in Group 24 with proven experience. Judge Simmons has been endorsed by Sheriff Don Eslingher and State Attorney Norm Wolfinger as a fair but firm judge. Judge Simmons' military and judicial leadership has served the public well.

Circuit Court Judge -- 18th Judicial, Group 3

Carsandra D. Buie

P.O. Box 2920
Sanford, Florida 32772-2920
Telephone: 321.363.3039

Carsandra has practiced law for 15 years. She graduated from Seminole High School in 1985. Carsandra received her BS degree and JD from University of Florida. She would be honored to serve as a circuit judge for the 18th Circuit. Carsandra will serve with INTEGRITY, ensure JUSTICE is blind and will be dedicated to promoting LIBERTY and JUSTICE for ALL.

Oscar Hotusing

Telephone: 321-610-8949
Fairness on the bench is a product of experience, leadership and character. My father taught me nothing is more noble than service to our country and community. As a former County Court Judge and United States Army Captain. I have dedicated my life to service, and I humbly ask that you allow me to continue to serve you.

Jessica Recksiedler

P. O. Box 471366
Lake Monroe, Florida 32747-1366
Telephone: (407) 497-2976

Born and raised in Seminole County, she is a former prosecutor and current board certified civil trial attorney, a recognized jury trial expert by the Florida Bar. As a married mother of two, the safety of the community is a priority. She is qualified, caring and committed. Her decisions will be based upon the law and grounded in experience.

County Court Judge - Group 5

Greg Hass QUALIFIED 2010-04-30

P.O. Box 5601
Longwood, Florida 32791
Telephone: 407-718-6415

I would consider it an honor and privilege to be elected to serve as your County Judge. I grew up in this wonderful community and chose to start my own family here. If elected, I will be patient, dignified, and courteous to all litigants, jurors, witnesses, and lawyers. I will perform the duties of County Judge with honor and impartiality.

Debra L. Krause QUALIFIED 2010-04-27

137 Academy Oaks Place
Altamonte Springs, Florida 32714

It is time that citizens are fairly represented in all levels of government including the judicial system. Judicial misconduct should not be tolerated. I will respect the County Judge position and respect everyone that comes before me. As a woman and mother, a vote for me is a vote for diversity, integrity and fairness. Vote DEBRA KRAUSE: "The People's Candidate."

A. A. Ladan QUALIFIED 2010-04-27

P.O. Box 195517
Winter Springs, Florida 32719-5517

I believe that "Equal Justice Under The Law" is not a mere concept, but is tangible; a breathing, living right fundamental to our way of life and to the defense of our liberty. I believe an independent judiciary is vital to defending, preserving and strengthening our republic and ensuring there is, in fact, equal justice under the law.

Fred Schott QUALIFIED 2010-04-30

2056 Hutton Point
Longwood, Florida 32779

Difficult times require judges with the necessary experience, energy and passion to keep justice paramount, to treat everyone with respect, and to understand the needs of their community. I have raised my family here and been honored to practice law here for 24 years. Please allow me to serve you and your family as our next Seminole County judge.

Winter Springs Commissioner - District 2

Rick Brown

1170 Tree Swallow Drive #311
Winter Springs, Florida 32708
Telephone: 407.341.6025

I am seeking re-election to the City Commission of the City of Winter Springs as your representative from District 2. Please visit my campaign website or call me directly to discuss any questions or concerns you may have. I thank you for your support and confidence thus far and ask for Your Vote in November.

Winter Springs Commissioner - District 4

Cade Resnick

P.O. Box 195644-5644
Winter Springs, Florida 32719

My Goal as commissioner is to maintain the excellence within the Winter Springs community that already exists. I also will do what I can to find a balance between local businesses and city residents. I believe I have the abilities to help create positive change. Please visit my website: www.caderesnick2010.com to find out more about me.