INTRODUCING YOUR DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES FOR ELECTED OFFICE IN MUSKEGON COUNTY!
As a service to our members, local Democrats at large, and everyone who values good government, Muskegon County Democrats have created this Candidate Profiles page featuring write-ups from our local candidates’ own pens. Profiles are listed alphabetically by surname. Check back regularly, as we will continue to add profiles as we receive them.
CANDIDATES, SUBMIT YOUR PROFILE: Open to all Democratic candidates for all elected offices in Muskegon County. There is no deadline, but the sooner you submit, the more chances constituents have to learn something about you here.
Here is what we need:
Length: About half to three-quarters of a page
Format: Paste the verbiage directly into your email. Include:
– Your name and the title of the office/position/community
– Your profile (we encourage you to share your background, skills, and personality.)
– A photo (jpg or png please – a photo from your phone will work perfectly)
– Email to [email protected]; Subject line: “Candidate Profile”
CANDIDATES
Name: JESSICA COOK
Candidate for: MUSKEGON COUNTY COMMISSIONER, DISTRICT 6 (INCUMBENT)
As a lifelong community servant with decades of experience, Jessica is a strong voice for District 6 and Muskegon County.
Currently in the second year of her first term as Muskegon County Commissioner, Jessica is vice-chair of the Board of Commissioners and chair of the Ways and Means (budget and personnel) and Community Development and Strategic Planning committees. The board has made many gains over the last two years, and Jessica will use her experience and relationships to continue to help guide our county government with an eye on fiscal accountability, sound governance, and fair and equitable representation.
Jessica has lived in Muskegon County for over 20 years. She and her husband Tait have two children in North Muskegon Schools, and love their community!
In addition to her work as a county commissioner, she works in donor development for an international humanitarian organization. Jessica works hard to create strong connections and listen to her constituents and community stakeholders by staying active in her community, attending city, township and neighborhood meetings, and talking to community members.
Name: JEANNE DAY-LA BO
Candidate for: PRECINCT DELEGATE, BLUE LAKE TOWNSHIP
38 years State of Michigan (Retired)
— Transportation small business / contracting /civil rights specialist
— Highway construction surveying, inspection, & management
— First responder/ trainer, CPR & first aid
— Administrative support
MILegalize, Office Manager /Jack of All Trades
— Michigan’s successful recreational marijuana ballot initiative
Certificate in Project Management, George Washington University
Masters in Public Administration,Western Michigan University
— Emphasis budget & public finance
Bachelors in French, Michigan State University
— Emphasis Spanish, Economics & Psychology
University of Aix-Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, France
— Studied International Economics
— Certificate, French Language & Culture
Name: BRUCE FROELICH
Candidate for: MUSKEGON COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 1
We have lived here since 2010. Marquette University was where I graduated from law school, after undergraduate at Western Michigan. One set of great grandparents lived in Fremont; another set in Muskegon. My family lived in Hart until I was 10. Retiring here was like coming home.
Thirteen years ago, brave and well-trained Montague Fire and Coast Guard personnel risked their lives to rescue me after capsizing in Lake Michigan. When that happens, you must pay back to the community, in whatever way you can.
Local public board experience began in 2012: I served 2 years on the county-wide library system (MADL) board; next came 4 years on Montague Fire District board; and since 2017 as vice-chair of White Lake Ambulance Authority. In 2013, I was elected to Montague City Council, and re-elected in 2017, serving as Mayor Pro-tem in 2021. These 21 cumulative years on public boards informed me about local values, service, and governance issues. My close attention to budgets and financial audits produced results: tax levy by WLAA and City both were reduced. New executives were hired at all 4 boards during my tenure. I listen to peoples’ concerns and work closely with others to solve problems.
Quality of life here is high. I am active in Dirt Dauber Garden Club, White Lake Chorale, White Lake Area Historical Society, Montague Friends of the Library. Currently I am trustee of the church we attend, and previously served 3 years as Board Secretary and 6 years as Treasurer.
Muskegon County has wonderful people, waterways and beaches, forests and trails. We live in paradise and must do what we can to preserve and improve it. My goals:
— Environmental sustainability to cope with climate change
— Oversight of county millages to serve Veterans and Seniors
— Responsibility to balance county budget
— Difficult lessons of Covid pandemic: infrastructure is more than roads, wires and pipes; it includes county funding and oversight for Public Health and Mental Health.
You can leave voice message to reach Bruce at 231-203-6512. Checks can be mailed to CTE Bruce Froelich, 5150 Brookwood Circle, Montague 49437 or online to Act Blue and search for Bruce Froelich to contribute.
Name: MARGOT HAYNES
Candidate for: PRECINCT DELEGATE, CITY OF MONTAGUE
Retired Community College Professor, Delta College, English Division (23 yrs), with experience teaching reading, composition, French, and ESL, including 6 years early in my career in Taiwan (Republic of China) 1972-78.
I’ve hung out by Lake Michigan for 65 years, mostly in White River Township. I inherited property from family in 1998 and it still belongs in the family, though we purchased a house in the city of Montague in 2008.
I like writing and have served as secretary for a number of organizations as well as writing publicity for them in the White Lake Beacon.
Name: DANIEL HESS
Candidate for: DALTON TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE
I was born in Muskegon and lived for a short time near where the Reeths-Puffer High School is currently located. My parents, after having six children, moved us out to Conklin, Chester Township in Ottawa County. I attended and graduated from Coopersville Public Schools. I then attended Grand Rapids Junior College, Muskegon Community College and received my Bachelor’s degree from Grand Valley State University in Law Enforcement.
Chester Township was and still is a farming community. When I wasn’t working in the cafeteria during high school, I was baling hay for the dairy farm a mile away or picking blueberries in Coopersville. Both sides of my family had blueberry fields, one side in Muskegon County the other up north. My life is deeply rooted in a rural and agricultural background.
I met my wife Kathy in 1992 and married her in 1994. We moved to Dalton Township in 2002 with our two children. I ran for Trustee and was elected in 2016. The reason I ran then was to improve the roads, which was requested by the residents. A lot of the township roads were improved those four years, roads in Twin Lake, Riverwood Subdivision, and Eklund Subdivision.
I also brought the right to keep animals in some of the residential areas after hearing that one of the residents was planning on selling their property because they couldn’t have ducks.
My goals now are keeping the roads in good shape, trying to lower the tax rate more, finding ways to get more input from the community and getting the township government out of the way so people can do what they want as long as they don’t impede on the rights of others. I also believe that the Township should do basic maintenance on the parks and lakes. If people want to improve on those, they can start some type of community foundation and seek donations for those projects.
Name: MARGIE KELLEY
Candidate for: DELEGATE FOR 3RD PRECINCT, CITY OF MUSKEGON
Hello. My name is Margie Kelley and I am running to be the Democratic Party delegate for the 3rd precinct in Muskegon.
I first started to attend democratic party meetings during the 2020 election. As in the 2020 election, I believe it is imperative that we elect democrats to office.
I have lived in Muskegon since the fall of 2018. I lived, worked and raised my son in Ann Arbor, and then spent 10 years in Alabama with my mother.
I have an Associate Degree from Washtenaw Community College in General Studies and made my living housecleaning and in retail sales.
I look forward as precinct delegate to answering any questions voters might have or introducing them to someone who can answer their questions.
Name: LOIS MAASSEN
Candidate for: MICHIGAN HOUSE DISTRICT 89
Lois Maassen was born and raised in West Michigan, the daughter of a pastor and a public school teacher. Her corporate career taught her about strategy, collaboration, and the importance of accurate information; in raising three kids to adulthood, she developed empathy and patience. She is a long-time community volunteer, from leading a Girl Scout troop to chairing nonprofit boards.
It was her 8-year-old granddaughter who inspired Lois to run for office.
“I couldn’t imagine her growing up with fewer rights than I had as a young woman. I’ll do what I can to assure that she can grow up in a functioning democracy, on a livable planet, and in a community that recognizes the full humanity and citizenship of all of its members.”
Every level of government is important. The state legislature can make a difference “for the people, by the people” in protecting voting and democratic participation, mitigating climate change, and in helping communities to thrive. We all need affordable housing, accessible health care, quality education, and fulfilling work.
Lois is recommended by the Michigan Education Association.
Name : TIM MEYER
Candidate for: MICHIGAN STATE HOUSE, 88TH DISTRICT
Tim Meyer grew up in Ohio, receiving his BA in Economics, Political Science, Urban Studies, and Econometrics, from the College of Wooster in 1978. He came to West Michigan as food service director at Aquinas College. He then opened Rock ‘n’ Road Cycle in Grand Haven in 1985 with additional locations in Muskegon, South Haven and Holland. He is now semi-retired, having sold the business to son, Matt.
Tim has been active in many local and national campaigns. In 2008, Tim knocked on doors for Obama in three states and led the Grand Haven Obama ‘08 canvass operation. He helped with the Mary Valentine, Sarah Howard, Rob Davidson, Chris Baker, Bob Monetza, Andrea Hendrick campaigns since, to name a few, and he personally ran for school board and state representative in 2016. He was also Vice Chair of Ottawa County Dems.
He is running to put his personal skills to work in the Michigan Legislature, and promises to be responsive to constituents, as he recently asked a couple dozen people to name their state Representative-not a single person got it right!
Thanks to the volunteers who put Proposal 2 of 2018 on the ballot, we have a new district, created by a citizens’ commission, centered on the Tri-Cities, Norton Shores and the surrounding area. Tim is focusing on flipping it blue!
He is currently a member and trustee at First Presbyterian Church of Grand Haven, is a former coach of Science Olympiad and Odyssey of the Mind, has been a member of Grand Haven’s Downtown Development Authority, and a graduate of the GH Chamber of Commerce Community Leadership Academy.
Tim states: “I’m easy to reach as a candidate, I listen, and I promise to be available to you as your Representative”.
Name : CHARLES NASH
Candidate for: MUSKEGON COUNTY COMMISSIONER, DISTRICT 5
Commissioner Charles Nash was born and raised in Muskegon. He is a graduate of Muskegon High School. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Communications from Eastern Michigan University. He has also received his Master’s and Post Master’s Degrees in Counseling from Grand Canyon University.
Commissioner Nash was first elected to the county board in 2008, where he represented District #7, which was nearly the exact same as the newly formed District #5, including both East-Muskegon and Muskegon Township.
Charles Nash is the Chairman of the Muskegon County Board of Commissioners. He is also the most experienced County Commissioner, having served 7 terms, and helped Muskegon County sustain a AA bond rating throughout a recession and a global pandemic, producing a balanced budget each year he has served.
Charles Nash looks to lead the County in collaboration with community leaders in building affordable housing, positively impacting economic development, and leading West Michigan in sustainability projects.
A Vote For Charles Nash Means
— Protecting Our Water & Natural Resources
— Continued Economic Development and Job Creation
— Protection and Benefits for Working Families
— Providing Necessary Services for Seniors
— Collaborating with Municipalities, and Community Leaders to Provide More Effective and Efficient Services to all Residents in need.
— Protecting Our Farms and Rural Communities
— Supporting Law Enforcement, Veterans, and First Responders
— Working to Build a Better Quality of Life In Muskegon Country
— Prioritizing Quality Health Care for Families and Individuals
Endorsements
— D.J. Hilson, Muskegon County Prosecutor
— Michael J. Poulin, Muskegon County Sheriff
— Tony Moulatsiotis, Muskegon County Treasurer
— Karen Buie, Muskegon County Clerk
— Muskegon County Democratic Party
— Will Snyder, 87th State Representative
— West Michigan Building and Trades Council
— U.A. Local 174
— The Lakeshore Community Labor Council AFL-CIO
— IBEW Local 275
— UAW Region 1D and Lakeshore CAP Council
— Robert Carter, Retired Muskegon County Sheriff
Name : HON. GREGORY C. PITTMAN
Candidate for: MUSKEGON COUNTY PROBATE COURT JUDGE
Judge Pittman is a lifelong resident of Muskegon County, married father of 2 adult children.
The Judge graduated from Muskegon Heights Public Schools in 1979, Michigan State University in 1983, Indiana University Maurer School of Law in 1987…and has been elected as Muskegon County Probate Judge from 1998-present.
The Judge’s professional experience has included two years with the Michigan Department of Commerce, staff attorney with the Kent County Public Defender’s Office, and private practice with the Muskegon law firm of Williams, Hughes, Corwin & Sinninger. Judge Pittman also served 18 months as Magistrate of the 60th District Court, as well as, adjunct faculty at Muskegon Community College, Baker College, and the Michigan Judicial Institute.
Currently serving as Chief Judge Pro Tempore of the 14th Circuit Court and Probate Court. for Muskegon Co. and as Chairman of the Muskegon County Election Commission, which maintains oversight of elections in Muskegon Co. (2016-present).
Served, by appointment of the Michigan Supreme Court (MSC), as Chief Judge of the 14th Circuit Court and Probate Court for Muskegon County. (2022-2024), MSC Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Committee, which was specifically tasked with enhancing Michigan’s One Court of Justice accessibility for all Michigan citizens.(2021-2022), and as “Mentor Judge”, to newly seated Judges (2017-19).
Served, by appointment, as Co-Chair of the MDHHS Michigan Children’s Welfare Improvement State Task Force. (2021-23).
Served by appointment of both Gov. Granholm and Gov. Snyder, as Member of Governor’s Task Force for Children’s Justice (2006-12)
Judge Pittman has received numerous awards and recognitions, for his stellar career of professional and community, and is endorsed by the UAW.
Name: MICHAEL POULIN
Candidate for: MUSKEGON COUNTY SHERIFF
I participated with the United Nations Development Program and the State of Kuwait, in support of implementing a “National and Integrated Traffic and Transportation Strategy”.
I have helped to build designated crash investigation units and assisted in the establishment of Kuwait’s National Traffic Safety Guidelines. In November 2018, I traveled to Doha, Qatar and presented at an International Traffic Safety Conference, assisting that country with preparations for the 2022 FIFA World Cup Soccer Tournament.
During my first two terms as Sheriff, staff numbers have improved for both the Law Enforcement and the Corrections Division. It will always be our goal to see that our community is served professionally, with a focus on community needs and customer service. Even with an increase (23.06%) of calls for service handled by deputies and investigators of the Muskegon County Sheriff’s Office, we were able to directly impact our community in a positive way.
Investigators continue to increase solve-ability rates, which speaks volumes of the professional work and direct focus of assisting our community and obtaining results for the victims of crime.
— 113.43% reduction in residential breaking and entering complaints
— 81.75% reduction in larcenies
— 87.45% increase in residential property checks
— 9.07% reduction in Aggravated/Felonious Assaults
— Implemented body worn cameras for all uniformed staff
— Upgraded weapons systems
— Built 1st ever chapel in the Muskegon County Jail
— Increased uniform staffing
— Cruiser technology upgrades
— Increased inmate programming
— Introduced the “Polar Patrol” ice cream truck for community engagement
Name: KENDRAH ROBINSON
Candidate for: MUSKEGON COUNTY PROBATE COURT JUDGE
Kendrah is mother to 3 children, and married to a Proud Big Red for nearly 15 years. Her heart of service was instilled at a very young age through her parents. Her mother was a teacher and her Pastor for more than 31 years. Her father was a steel worker from the South and shared the importance of family and never forgetting where you came from.
Kendrah is Public Defender in Muskegon County 14th Circuit Court, fighting every day to protect the rights of Muskegon’s most at-risk children and criminal defendants. She also remains active in numerous community and non-profit organizations, including Mediation and Restorative Services, the Child Abuse Council of Muskegon, Fruitport Public Schools, the Women’s Division of the Chamber of Commerce, and “Aspiring Ladies of Law” – a youth mentoring group she created at Muskegon High School.
Robinson has the unique experiences and diverse legal background to demonstrate that, as a judge, her decisions will be guided by her strong morals and core philosophy. Her goal will always be to use her fresh, diverse perspective to seek justice and fairness while enforcing the law.
Community Involvement
PUBLIC DEFENDER to thousands of Muskegon County residents
MANAGES ONE OF THE LARGEST CRIMINAL DEFENSE CASELOADS in Muskegon’s 14th Circuit Court
CREATOR AND YOUTH LAW MENTOR for the “Aspiring Ladies of Law” program at 9 Muskegon area schools. (Muskegon High School, North Muskegon, Oakridge, Reeths-Puffer, Mona Shores, Whitehall, Holton, Montague, MCEC, Ravenna)
DIRECTOR of “Get Rid of It” expungement program
ACTIVE MEMBER of Child Abuse Council, Women’s Division Chamber of Commerce, Fruitport Public Schools, and Attorney Grievance Commissioner
Name: WILL SNYDER, STATE REP, MICHIGAN’S 87TH HOUSE DISTRICT
Candidate for: STATE REPRESENTATIVE, MICHIGAN DISTRICT 87
Representative Will Snyder is serving his first term representing the 87th House District. He is a proud lifelong resident of the City of Muskegon, currently residing in the Glenside Neighborhood, and has long been dedicated to community activism in Greater Muskegon. Prior to his work as a legislator, Rep. Snyder spent six years working as legislative aide and district director for his predecessor, Rep. Terry Sabo. He also served on the Board of Directors of Read Muskegon, where he worked to break the generational cycle of illiteracy in Muskegon County.
Rep. Snyder always puts the voice of residents first. He advocates for investments in workforce training development programs to grow Michigan’s labor force by giving people access to high-paying quality jobs, and to attract businesses by having a strongly skilled workforce. He brings his Muskegon roots and Lansing experience to the Capitol as he advocates for working families, stands up for quality health care and reproductive rights, fights for top-notch, affordable education, and works for infrastructure improvements in West Michigan and the entire state. He understands that strengthening the connections between the people in local communities and the policymakers in Lansing is an essential ingredient in reinforcing Michigan’s today and investing in its tomorrow.
Rep. Snyder serves on both the House Appropriations Committee and the Regulatory Reform Committee. He is a member of the Appropriations Subcommittees on Corrections, Health and Human Services, and Chairs the Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Economic Development, and Lifelong Learning.
Name: SANDRA BOONE THOMAS
Candidate for: COUNTY COMMISSIONER DISTRICT 3
I was born and raised in Muskegon, Michigan. Dedicated to public service, I’ve spent 32 years as a high school teacher within Muskegon Public School, fostering young minds. I have been a proud member of MEA for the entirety of my teaching career. I am strong advocate for educators and union members.
My educational foundation is strong, with a BS and MA from Western Michigan University. Prior to entering the world of education, I gained valuable leadership experience as a telecommunication supervisor at Hackley Hospital for 10 years.
My commitment to the community extends beyond the classroom. I served on the City of Muskegon’ property tax review board for 2 years and made a difference as a Big Brother/Sister program participant for 10 years.
I’ve also opened my home as a foster parent, providing a safe and nurturing environment for children in need. I have also coached a 6th grade girls basketball team and mentored and tutored young people over the years.
I have been endorsed by MEA, UAW, Muskegon County Democratic Party, and several other organizations as well as individuals.
I enjoy working with people and improving their health and education, I feel that I can make an even more positive difference for our community as County Commissioner District 3.
Name: SUSAN M. VANSLYKE
Candidate for: PRECINCT DELEGATE
I was born in Shelby, raised in Montague and White River Township, completed my education at Montague Public Schools, and obtained a degree in Marketing from Baker College.
I have been engaged in various roles within the White Lake area, including employment at Del Foods, Scholl Country Travel, the White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Arts Council of White Lake. I recently retired after 21+ yrs at Goodwill Industries of West Michigan.
Currently, I am actively involved in promoting the election of Democratic candidates by serving in Campaign offices, organizing fundraising events, and mobilizing individuals who share similar perspectives to participate, provide support, and exercise their voting rights. My primary motivation for pursuing this role is safeguarding and upholding our democratic values.
