ARA Rubyan, Author at BR Votes™

Bernadette Thomas

ARA Rubyan — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 22:05:06 +0000

Ranked Choice:

I support programs that replace traditional and/or remedial courses with advanced and/or college level courses in our district.
Neutral

I believe that the racial demographics of the school districts should equitably represent the population of Baton Rouge.
Agree

I support the creation of a separate school district for St. George.
Strongly Disagree

Family poverty levels affect student test scores, therefore we need a system that takes overall school poverty level into account in order to give a more accurate measure of student performance.
Strongly Agree

The school district should have the authority to mandate vaccines for children in public schools.
Strongly Disagree

The school district should provide curriculum that is sensitive to race, gender, and culture.
Agree

Recess time should be required in both elementary AND middle schools.
Strongly Agree

Short Answer:

What is your relationship with the public school system? (Did you attend, did/are your children/grandchildren attend(ing)). Have you attended school board meetings in the past? How would your presence improve the board?
I attended public schools and my family. I have attended school board meetings in the pass. We need a change of board members. Because if your not part of the solution your part of the problem. The schools been having problems for a long time so we need change.

What role does a school board member play in addressing the local challenges concerning teacher retention and hiring? How will you address the district’s teacher shortage?
The school board members play a big roll in address the local challenges. For one you should pay them there worth and offer them a package deal that offer to pay off their student loans. They should have 15 students in the classroom with an aide.
The Industrial Tax Exemption Program gives exemption of property tax to industry.

What is your criteria for approving or denying ITEP exemptions for the school board portion of the tax?
No industrial should have tax exemption. Because we need them to pay their part so that our school system could get what’s need.

Would you like to clarify any of your ranked choice responses?
Its all about the children and their well being. They come first because they’re the future

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Beau Higginbotham

ARA Rubyan — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 21:58:40 +0000

Website: beauhigginbotham.com

Short Answer:

What should voters consider when choosing their Judge for Appeals Court?
Trial Experience: I have spent nearly two decades in the courtroom, everyday learning and experiencing what happens in jury trials. The Appeals Court is a court that reviews trial court decisions to determine if error has occurred or not. Without this nearly two decades of trial experience, how would one know how to review a case for error? You can’t. My experience cannot be replaced or replicated. My judicial philosophy is conservative. Honesty and transparency-I have been an outspoken advocate for judicial transparency and my judicial career has been one of promptness, preparation, and courtesy to all parties.

How have your legal experiences prepared you to work in the Appeals Court system and deal with cases from a variety of backgrounds?
Having practiced civil, criminal and family law and spent two decades in the courtroom, I feel that I am uniquely qualified to serve on the Court of Appeal because of my extensive trial court experience. As an attorney in private practice and engaged in real estate business, I have a solid foundation in the issues of business, tort and complex litigation. As a former prosecutor, my experience has afforded a clear vision on tackling criminal matters. My 8 years as a criminal court judge, I have directly dealt with the changes in our society and have built a reputation as a strong, consistent and fair judge as it relates to criminal matters.

What issues will impact your decisions regarding adoption and custody rights case?
The law. Judges must enforce to rule of law, uphold the Constitutions, follow the prescriptions of the legislative body and do what the people’s representatives decide. They are not to legislate from the bench.

How has the War on Drugs been effective and ineffective? What is your view on mandatory sentencing for non-violent drug offenses?
It has been more ineffective than effective. It has been effective by forcing the issue of illegal drugs into the public spotlight. However, it has failed in slashing the demand for drugs in our society which has led to the explosion of violence on our streets. Generally, all illicit drug use and drug trafficking are violent crimes. While use of drugs is an individual decision, the marketing and distribution of illegal drugs are a violent action against society and, particularly, young people. Mandatory sentencing for “non-violent” drug offenses has failed in part, but this should not be deter holding persons responsible for their actions, especially drug distribution. Dealers and drug kingpins must be arrested and fully prosecuted from the bottom to the top. Drug users must be dealt with sternly in an effort to insure rehabilitation opportunity, but frequency of arrests and a long criminal record provides clear evidence that incarceration is an alternative to insure rehab.

What is a judge’s responsibility regarding the growing problem of overcrowding in Louisiana’s prison system?
Judges bear no responsibility with the overcrowding of Louisiana’s prisons. Judges enforce the laws enacted by the Louisiana Legislature. Judges cannot control the crime, they can only address the crime that comes before them. Should we not punish crime because of an overcrowding problem? Crime is responsible for the overcrowding. A judge’s responsibility must primarily be to protect society from violent criminals. Period. Overcrowding cannot be an excuse for failure to protect society from such individuals. A revolving door of incarceration for violent criminals does not work. A judge must be aware if the incarcerated are being treated humanely but this does not ensure a “country club” mentality. Overcrowding in prison is dangerous to the prisoners as well as the guards and prison
personnel.

Do you believe all citizens have adequate access to legal assistance and the appeals system? How can this access be improved?
Clearly, not all citizens have adequate access to legal assistance, especially the poor. Public funding to finance such assistance is part of our system, but the public provides the money through taxes. Thus, there must be a more aggressive explanation made to the public about this matter. This is a matter for public policy, at this point, and funding must be left in the public domain of the legislature.

What makes a good temperament for a judge?
Consistency. Preparation. Courtesy. Honesty. Fairness. Each of these components must be found in a judge. The consistency of process ensures every litigant understands what the judge expects and respects the judicial process. Preparation by the judge ensures an efficient administration of justice and timely decisions. Courtesy must be afforded both sides in litigation. Honesty speaks to the lack and/or reduction of any possible conflict of interest on part of the judge and this is essential. If all of the above are adhered, then, fairness will be the result plus the judge must take time to take into account the place, position and disposition of the each party to fashion a fair result.

The post Beau Higginbotham appeared first on BR Votes™.

Adam Kwentua

ARA Rubyan — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 20:25:34 +0000

Website: kwentuaforjudge.com

Short Answer:

What should voters consider when choosing their Judge for the 19th Judicial Court? What makes a good temperament for a judge?
Voters should consider integrity, impartiality, transparency, organization and efficiency when choosing their Judge for the 19th Judicial District Court. The Judge controls the culture of the courtroom and the goal is to create an environment that voters can trust when required to come to court. A good temperament for a Judge is one that maintains order in the courtroom but encourages dialogue and communication between all parties. Establishing standards and expectations for the court early on will help with taking the guesswork out of what’s appropriate for court and encourages attorneys to be zealous advocates while remaining focused on efficiency.

What is your personal experience with pro bono work? Do you believe all citizens have adequate access to legal assistance and the legal system? How can this access be improved?
My work as an Assistant District Attorney limits some of the pro bono opportunities that I would be able to help with but I prioritize volunteer work and pro bono services whenever possible. I believe all citizens have the right to adequate access to legal assistance and to the legal system but in practice, there are many that fall through the cracks because of the volume of cases and the financial burdens involved with acquiring legal assistance. I believe this access can be improved by encouraging a court culture that supports mitigation and alternative programs for lower level offenses to allow a greater focus for legal assistance on violent crimes and serious felony cases. I also believe that within reason, setting timelines for the life of a case in court can help with lowering the volume of court matters and help with better managing court resources to focus on citizens that really need the attention.

What factors do you consider in granting and setting bail amounts for defendants? What do you believe is the primary consideration?
The factors I consider in granting and setting bail amounts for defendants models the factors established by the Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure: 1) The seriousness of the offense charged, (2) The weight of the evidence, (3) Prior criminal record, (4) ability of the defendant to give bail, (5) nature and seriousness of the danger to person or the community, (6) voluntary participation in a pretrial drug testing program, (7) drug usage
(8) currently out on bond, (9) probability of appearance, and (10) type or form of bail. Primary consideration for me is the seriousness of the danger to person or community if the individual is released. I believe prior criminal history patterns can help with understanding the risk of release beyond just the facts of the incident.

How has the War on Drugs been effective and ineffective? What is your view on mandatory sentencing for non-violent drug offenses?
Drugs charges can be difficult to assess depending on if the individual is a user or seller of narcotics and the individual’s willingness to address the root of the behavior if given the opportunity (and whether a support system is in place to encourage addressing the root of the behavior). Sentencing requires having the flexibility to assess the prior history, the current case facts, the danger to the community, the support structure and other factors in order to determine the appropriate resolution.

What is a judge’s responsibility regarding the growing problem of overcrowding in Louisiana’s prison system?
Overcrowding in Louisiana’s prison system is a documented issue that requires the work of all parties to make the change. Overcrowding should be a consideration for the judge when sentencing but should be evaluated on a case by case basis. When the law and facts of a case allow for alternative sentencing, the Judge has a responsibility to be open to alternative measures when it’s possible without compromising the safety of the community. When the law and facts of a case support incarceration, the Judge has a responsibility to implement harsher punishments. I believe one area that a Judge can control that directly impacts overcrowding is to set a timeline for cases to avoid unnecessary incarceration prior to conviction. Risk assessments during bond setting could also be a helpful tool to support the focus on overcrowding.

The post Adam Kwentua appeared first on BR Votes™.

Aaron Sigler

ARA Rubyan — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 19:45:30 +0000

No survey response from candidate.

The post Aaron Sigler appeared first on BR Votes™.

Bradley McMorris

ARA Rubyan — Sat, 15 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Website: BradMcMorris.com

Survey Response

Ranked Choice Answers:

I support women’s access to reproductive healthcare, including abortion services.
Strongly Disagree

I support an increase in the federal minimum wage.
Strongly Disagree

Congress should place a price cap on life-saving medications like insulin.
Strongly Agree

I support a background check on every gun sale.
Strongly Agree

The United States of America has an obligation to accept asylum seekers.
Strongly Disagree

LGBTQ individuals and families should be protected from discrimination in the workplce, housing, and public accommodations.
Strongly Agree

The United States should be more involved in the Russo-Ukrainian War.
Strongly Disagree

Short Answer:

What do you envision is the role of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in regulating business and protecting the environment?
They are doing a good job as is. We can not do much about protecting the environment until we can get China, India, etc. to start to care about it. I am the only person running for Senate who could do this.

How would you describe the status of civil rights in the US today?
Perfect

What will you do to expand access to affordable, accessible housing for low-income people in the United States?
Create a loan program for low-income individuals.

Would you like to clarify any of your ranked choice answers?
No

The post Bradley McMorris appeared first on BR Votes™.

Brian Belzer

ARA Rubyan — Sat, 15 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Website: BelzerForChange.us

Survey Response

Ranked Choice Answers:

I support women’s access to reproductive healthcare, including abortion services.
Neutral

I support an increase in the federal minimum wage.
Disagree

Congress should place a price cap on life-saving medications like insulin.
Agree

I support a background check on every gun sale.
Agree

The United States of America has an obligation to accept asylum seekers.
Neutral

LGBTQ individuals and families should be protected from discrimination in the workplce, housing, and public accommodations.
Agree

The United States should be more involved in the Russo-Ukrainian War.
Disagree

Short Answer:

What do you envision is the role of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in regulating business and protecting the environment?
The EPA should only regulate laws that are created by Congress. The EPA is not a lawmaking entity nor is it a judicial entity. If it finds a company in violation of any laws created by Congress, then it should act as the agency it is, and investigate the issues with full cooperation from the business and full disclosure to the American people. No fines or shutdowns should be allowed until ALL information is gathered, both sides have had their say, and ALL rights of the business to defend itself against ANY accusations are brought before a panel of legitimate, non-partisan mediators. Too many times government overreach has allowed businesses to be shut down for reasons later found to be false or misleading.

How would you describe the status of civil rights in the US today?
We are ALL Americans! Every Law for civil liberties are there for ALL Americans! I feel the Federal Government is and has been tromping on our civil rights for decades! This current administration has gone even further by trying to pass legislation to curb free speech, destroy the Second Amendment, and force law abiding citizens to lose their jobs and companies by draconian measures like forced mandates and closures!

What will you do to expand access to affordable, accessible housing for low-income people in the United States?
The Federal Government is allowing the states, which are the ones that are the problem with affordable housing, to abuse the system with no accountability. The money that is being sent to the states for housing and help for low income Americans is being wasted and spent on companies and entities that are more worried about their own pocketbook than the Americans pocketbook! I will work to stop the widespread, rampant corruption in state and local governments that abuse their power with this money and start holding those that need to be held accountable just that… ACCOUNTABLE!!!

Would you like to clarify any of your ranked choice answers?
I put neutral on the women’s healthcare because that is a loaded question! I am Pro Life and Pro Women’s health! I do not agree with getting an abortion just because you don’t feel like having a baby! Rape, incest or if the mother’s life is at stake, or having major health issues will be the only way I will agree to an abortion! The Federal Government has no Constitutional Duty to enforce abortion. The Federal Government can only do what the US Constitution allows it to do! PERIOD!! That is why there is a Tenth Amendment in the Bill Of Rights. To guarantee unto the States the rights not guaranteed to the Federal Government under the Constitution!
I also agree there should be a background check for every new or used gun purchased from a dealer. But that is already the law. Law abiding citizens are not the problem but they are being punished for criminals actions. That needs to stop and I will make sure law abiding citizens are given all their second amendment rights as guaranteed!

The post Brian Belzer appeared first on BR Votes™.

Caleb Seth Kleinpeter

ARA Rubyan — Sat, 15 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

No survey response from candidate

The post Caleb Seth Kleinpeter appeared first on BR Votes™.

Carla Powell

ARA Rubyan — Sat, 15 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Website: VoteCarlaPowell.com

Ranked Choice:

I support programs that replace traditional and/or remedial courses with advanced and/or college level courses in our district.
Disagree

I believe that the racial demographics of the school districts should equitably represent the population of Baton Rouge.
Strongly Agree

I support the creation of a separate school district for St. George.
Disagree

The school district should have the authority to mandate vaccines for children in public schools.
Agree

The school district should provide curriculum that is sensitive to race, gender, and culture.
Strongly Agree

Recess time should be required in both elementary AND middle schools.
Strongly Agree

Short Answer:

What is your relationship with the public school system? (Did you attend, did/are your children/grandchildren attend(ing)). Have you attended school board meetings in the past? How would your presence improve the board?
I attended East Baton Rouge Parish Schools from Kindergarten through 12th grade. My son is currently a student in East Baton Rouge Parish Schools. I attend school board meetings. As a lifelong Baton Rouge resident, a parent of a student in the district, and a certified Social Studies teacher, I bring a unique perspective to improve the decisions of the school board.

What role does a school board member play in addressing the local challenges concerning teacher retention and hiring? How will you address the district’s teacher shortage?
A school board member serves as the voice of the local community in correspondence with the school district and the superintendent. School board members may assist in researching efforts to increase teacher recruitment and retention. A taskforce of stakeholders should be created with plans of surveying current employees needs and reasons for remaining employed by the district. The taskforce may also consider visiting school districts nationally who are thriving in the area of teacher retention then work to implement similar practices within our school district. And, assist as needed to maintain success.

The Industrial Tax Exemption Program gives exemption of property tax to industry. What is your criteria for approving or denying ITEP exemptions for the school board portion of the tax?
We need viable jobs for students upon graduating from high school. We also need funds to support our schools and school staff. Negotiations of exemption percentages is needed to confirm that all stakeholders benefit from the ITEP arrangement.

Would you like to clarify any of your ranked choice responses?
N/A

The post Carla Powell appeared first on BR Votes™.

Cathy Carmichael

ARA Rubyan — Sat, 15 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Website: CathyCarmichael.com

Ranked Choice:

I support programs that replace traditional and/or remedial courses with advanced and/or college level courses in our district.
Strongly Agree

I believe that the racial demographics of the school districts should equitably represent the population of Baton Rouge.
Strongly Agree

I support the creation of a separate school district for St. George.
Strongly Disagree

The school district should have the authority to mandate vaccines for children in public schools.
Strongly Agree

The school district should provide curriculum that is sensitive to race, gender, and culture.
Strongly Agree

Recess time should be required in both elementary AND middle schools.
Strongly Agree

Short Answer:

What is your relationship with the public school system? (Did you attend, did/are your children/grandchildren attend(ing)). Have you attended school board meetings in the past? How would your presence improve the board?
I attended public schools from kindergarten all the way through university. All three of my children are current EBR public school students. I served four terms as a PTO President, lead numerous fundraising efforts for new school equipment, and continue to serve as an active volunteer. I have attended most EBR school board meetings over the last two years. At those meetings, I make my voice heard during the public comment period.
I want to bring a different perspective to the School Board. I am a frontline stakeholder. I would improve the board by holding my fellow board members and the Superintendent accountable for actions that prevent our schoolchildren from thriving.

Do you support the creation of more charter schools in Baton Rouge? What criteria would you use to determine whether to approve them? What solution would you propose to address the growing budget deficits as charters receive more dedicated funds from the general budget?
Baton Rouge is super-saturated with charter schools that duplicate education environments already provided by traditional public schools. The growth of charters has undermined local public schools and communities without producing any overall increase in student learning and growth. Charter schools have opaque finances, making it hard to tell how our tax dollars are being spent. Most worryingly, charter schools are not accountable to the EBRPSS school board or Superintendent. If a parent or student has a serious problem with their charter school, they may not have a democratically elected official that they can call on for help.
I believe that any newly proposed charter school demonstrate two things: 1. that it is filling a unique educational niche that EBRPSS is ill-equipped to fill, and 2. that filling this niche will enhance educational outcomes for a group of currently underserved students.

What role does a school board member play in addressing the local challenges concerning teacher retention and hiring? How will you address the district’s teacher shortage?
The first thing we need to do is stop calling this crisis a “teacher shortage.” We do not have a “teacher shortage.” What we have is a shortage of respect, dignity, support, and pay for teachers. All the problems we have recruiting and retaining teachers flows from that. EBRPSS teacher pay has been appallingly low for decades. Even before the pandemic, they had a huge and stressful workload; then COVID forced them to re-make their entire profession over and over again and deal with a host of additional stressors. Teachers had to endure forced reassignment to different schools and divisive stipends that pitted teachers against support staff.
As a school board member I would advocate for reversing the Superintendent’s many mistakes that have led to an exodus of teachers. They need fair pay, support, resources and time for planning at a time of extraordinary educational needs in Baton Rouge.

The Industrial Tax Exemption Program gives exemption of property tax to industry. What is your criteria for approving or denying ITEP exemptions for the school board portion of the tax?
The EBR School Board has been stuck on a ridiculous ITEP merry-go-round for many years. A big business hints that if it doesn’t receive an ITEP exemption, it won’t go through with its proposed job-creating business enhancement, thus putting pressure on school boards to approve every exemption for the sake of job creation. Every time an ITEP exemption is granted, public schools lose out on the tax revenue that they need to function. Enough is enough. ITEP exemptions should not be an everyday occurrence. They should be exceptional, and should only be granted when the project is truly transformational. We need to start thinking in this kind of long-term fashion and get out of our narrow-minded, “jobs vs. schools” mentality currently governing individual ITEP requests.

Would you like to clarify any of your ranked choice responses?
–

The post Cathy Carmichael appeared first on BR Votes™.

Dadrius Lanus

ARA Rubyan — Sat, 15 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Website: Vote4Lanus.com

No survey response from candidate.

The post Dadrius Lanus appeared first on BR Votes™.