Sheriff is 'good man, good leader, best-qualified'

Editor:

... Before you go to the polls on July 20, do some research. Think about these facts: Since Clay Whittle took the position of sheriff of Columbia County in April of 1995, there has been a 26 percent reduction in overall crimes in spite of the fact that our population has grown by 17 percent.

There have been 330 drug busts in our county. More than $200,000 in cash and 20 vehicles have been ceased during these arrests.

Whittle formed a special squad called JCAT (Juvenile Crime Abatement Team) which consists of one supervisor and four individuals trained specifically to handle crimes against our children.

Isn't it great to feel safe and secure in your home town? Aren't we lucky to live in a country allowing us to vote for those we want to lead us?

Please vote July 20. Don't think that because it's just a primary your vote doesn't matter. It's probably more important than the November vote. This will decide your local government. This will decide your safety.

Think about it and, after you've decided, be sure to vote. I hope you will vote Whittle back into office. He's a good man, a good leader and the best qualified for the job.

Pat Fickle

Martinez