Views from the Linn County Auditor

Michael R. Olinger - Candidate for Director at Large - Alburnett Community School District

My name is Mike Olinger. I live near Lafayette with my wife, Corey (Duvel), and our three sons.

I was born and raised in the Alburnett Community School District. I'm part of 5 generations of Olingers who have called the Toddville/Alburnett area home and have walked the halls of our schools over the past 100 years. Corey and I are both graduates of Alburnett and our sons are very active in school here, keeping busy with academics, sports, and music.

I received my Bachelor of Arts from the University of Northern Iowa and am also a magna-***-laude graduate of the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science.

I have worked for 15 years at Murdoch Funeral Home, where I'm a licensed Funeral Director. I maintain professional memberships in both the National and Iowa Funeral Directors Associations.

I currently serve as a board member for the Alburnett Community School District Foundation. I've worked hard to establish the Foundation's PILLARS Scholarship Program, which I chair and coordinate annually.

I'm also very proud of helping to create and build the Alburnett Youth Football program, where I volunteer as a coach.

In addition, I'm involved in the Sports Boosters and help volunteer building sets for the high school music department.

I'd like the opportunity to continue to my serve my community as a school board member. I want to see practical advances in our school and to see the quality of our school district continue to improve.

Accountability is the key to success in any organization. I will insist on support and acclaim for those who excel at their job and will seek answers from those who do not.

Being affiliated with a “pro” or a “con” group would be unproductive for a candidate in our district. We need a candidate who stands up for what is best for our school and community at large, but is able to have open dialogue and to bring people together to make much needed decisions and changes.

I have always "bled purple and gold" and will do my best to make common sense decisions if elected.

I value our community's trust and would greatly appreciate your vote on September 11th!

Linn-Mar Candidate Forum

Linn-Mar Community School District Candidate Forum
5pm on September 4th
Board Room
Educational Services Center
3333 North 10th ST - Marion

Neil Matthias - Candidate for Director at Large - Central City Community School District

Hello -

My name is Neil Matthias and in order for you to make a more informed decision for the Central City School Board election on Tuesday, September 11th, I offer you my biography.

My family and I have been a part of the Central City community for over 10 years. My family includes my wife, Susan and our three children – Brianna (15), Skyler (12), and Storm (9).

Our children currently attend the Central City Community School District, so becoming an active member on the school board is important to me. I think it is important for my children, your children, or even your grandchildren to have a quality education in a positive and learning conducive environment.

I am excited about this opportunity and would invite you to call me at my home if you have questions regarding my views on any specific issue. My home number is 319-437-2621.

Reasons why I ask you to vote for Neil Matthias:

􀁀 I am a Change Agent willing to research issues to validate decision.

􀁀 I am excellent at driving team results.

􀁀 I effectively listen first and communicate second.

􀁀 I am consistent and successful in developing people, processes and procedures.

Career:

􀁀 Currently VP Finance and Accounting for Fleck Sales since 1999

Education:

􀁀 Passed the CPA exam on the first attempt.

􀁀 Graduate of the University of Northern Iowa with a bachelors in Accounting.

􀁀 Tripoli High School

Significant influential reading... Stephen Covey... Seven Habits

My strongest influence is my hard-working 85-year-old father who is the essence of the combination of pride and humility.

Personal interests include CC Rider, Mission Remarkable, two marathons, golfing, biking, fishing, hunting, and coaching kids for over 10 years.

Thank you ~ and be sure to vote on SEPTEMBER 11, 2007

Neil Matthias