Letters to the Editor: Writers show support for sheriff's, judge candidates
Pontiac
In support of Tom Vagasky
I am writing this letter in support of Tom Vagasky, Republican candidate for Livingston County Sheriff in the June 28 primary election.
I admit to being biased against the other candidate. The public expects those wearing a badge to be above reproach and to behave at all times whether on-duty or off as an example to the rest of us.
Tom’s career spans 26 years. He has real experience in investigating homicides, drugs and financial crimes. His last assignment was supervisor of the area drug unit covering 13 counties.
Tom is the candidate with experience in budgets and grant programs. He has instructed officers in criminal law and rules of evidence.
Before you cast your vote look at the candidates based on experience, educational background and achievement. Only one candidate checks the boxes on issues that need addressed by the next sheriff. Vote for Tom Vagasky.
Robert McCarty
Pontiac
In support of Tom Vagasky
Tom Vagasky is the only candidate for sheriff that is committed to be full time, providing leadership 24/7. His opponent plans to continue to play in a band as far away as Bloomington and Seneca. Already scheduled are over two dozen dates in bars and other venues later this year. Doesn't the sheriff's salary of $148,000 deserve more than part time?
Tom has appeared, spoke, and answered questions at meet and greet events for candidates, including one sponsored by Farm Bureau and the most recent for all Republican candidates. His opponent has never appeared at these, refusing invitations. What is he afraid of? Voters deserve better.
We are fortunate to have many good officers in the sSheriff's department. Please join me to elect Tom Vagasky to provide full time the experience and leadership that they need.
Tina Molton
Hudson
In support of Amy McFarland
I retired as a circuit judge last year and Judge Amy McFarland is now vying for that vacancy. I fully support her in that endeavor.
Six years ago, myself and the other circuit judges appointed Amy as an associate judge as she was the most qualified of the 10 lawyer applicants for that position. Appointing associate judges is one of the most important obligations that a circuit judge has and it was an excellent decision that the judges made as Judge Amy has served honorably for the past six years. The lawyers who appear before her agree as well, as they have found her to be “recommended” but have found her opponent to be “not recommended.” Additionally, 13 of my retired judge colleagues have also endorsed Judge Amy.
Please join me in voting in the Republican primary on June 28 for Judge Amy McFarland.
Paul Lawrence
Hudson
In support of Amy McFarland
I support Judge Amy McFarland for election to circuit judge in the 11th Judicial Circuit. I practiced law in the 11th Judicial Circuit for more than 36 years and I am very familiar with both candidates as a result. Judge McFarland has served as an associate judge for six years and has done an excellent job. During that time, Judge McFarland has been named the presiding judge of the family division, which is a testament to her considerable leadership and administrative abilities.
Judge Amy McFarland is endorsed by 14 retired circuit judges and she is the only candidate recommended by attorneys in the judicial advisory poll administered by the Illinois State Bar Association.
I, personally, can attest that she was always knowledgeable, prepared and fair when I appeared before her.
Please join me in supporting Judge Amy McFarland for circuit judge in the Republican primary on June 28th, 2022.
Helen Ogar
Pontiac
In support of Ryan Bohm
I have been a business owner in Pontiac for the last 10 years. I have known Ryan Bohm for approximately 30 years. During the time that I have known him, I have had a great deal of contact with him around other people. He always treats people fairly and reasonably. He always has a smile on his face and a positive attitude. He is actively involved in improving our county. Please join my family in voting for Ryan Bohm as sheriff.
Tom Roe
Cornell
In support of Ryan Bohm
I am the village president of Cornell, Illinois, and have been for the last 10 years. During that period, I have become acquainted with Ryan Bohm in his capacity as a Livingston County deputy. Ryan has attended many village meetings. He is always professional and prepared and has been of great assistance to the Village of Cornell. He is very easy to get along with and work with. I highly recommend him as our next sheriff.
Steve Rapp
Fairbury
In support of Ryan Bohm
Livingston County has a choice for sheriff this year. I will be voting for Ryan Bohm. He knows the residents of this county and is also intimately familiar with the current members of the Sheriff’s Department. I have always known him to be honest, polite and professional. He is very capable of performing the duties of sheriff. We need a local person, not an outsider, as our next sheriff. Ryan Bohm has all the qualifications and has earned my vote.
Paul Augsburger
Pontiac
In support of Ryan Bohm
I have been in business in Pontiac for 20 years. I am well acquainted with Ryan Bohm. I know Ryan to be a compassionate person. He is kind and caring towards everyone. He has served our county Sheriff’s Department for almost 20 years. He knows the personnel in the Sheriff’s Department and the people of this county are his number one priority. He has earned my vote to be the next Livingston County sheriff.
Calib Baxter
Pontiac
In support of Ryan Bohm
My wife and I have been in business in Pontiac since 1988. I have known the Bohm family and Ryan since that time. Everything I know about Ryan is good. He is hard-working, honest, loyal and through his profession is dedicated to improving Livingston County. He has spent almost 20 years with the Livingston County Sheriff’s Department. He was born and raised in Livingston County. He knows what is important to the residents of our county and will make an excellent sheriff. Without hesitation, I recommend him to be our next Livingston County Sheriff.
Jerry Causer
Pontiac
In support of Ryan Bohm
I am retired from the State of Illinois. I have known Ryan since he was around 2 years old. I can’t say anything but good things about Ryan. He is honest and trustworthy. He has been known in the past to drive his tractor and snow blower into Cornell and spend hours plowing people out for no charge. That says a lot about his character. I know him to also be a dedicated law enforcement officer with almost 20 years of experience. I can’t think of a better person to be the next Livingston County sheriff than Ryan Bohm.
Kelly Jones
Blackstone
In support of Ryan Bohm
I initially met Ryan Bohm when he pulled my vehicle over as a young deputy because my license plate light was out. He treated me with great respect and could not have been more professional. As a highway commissioner, I’ve had occasion to call the Sheriff’s Department on many occasions. Ryan has handled several of those calls. He has always acted professional and fair. I have observed him being respectful of co-workers and the public in general. I believe Livingston County would be best served by electing him as our next Sheriff.
Ron Davis
Dwight
In support of Ryan Bohm
I am a long time resident and businessman in Dwight, Illinois. I have known Ryan Bohm for 25 years. Ryan has been there through thick and thin with me. I have never known him to be judgmental. He is very fair and open to everyone he meets. Ryan is the only candidate for Livingston County Sheriff who has actually worked in Livingston County. He has served the citizens of this county with distinction for almost 20 years. I am confident that Ryan will be a great leader for the Livingston County Sheriff’s Department. I will be voting for Ryan Bohm as our next Livingston County sheriff.
Craig Krug
Pontiac
In support of Ryan Bohm
I will be voting for Ryan Bohm for Livingston County sheriff. I have known Ryan since he was a child. I have been a local businessman for more than 50 years. One thing I have learned during that time is that a man’s only as good as his work and Ryan’s work has always been good. I know him to be a professional law enforcement officer and a gentleman when not in uniform. I believe he will make a great sheriff.
Stan Lee
This article originally appeared on Pontiac Daily Leader: Letters to the Editor: Writers show support for sheriff's candidates
