I have known Joe Smith for more that 50 years and have been intimately involved with his ministry program, YCAP, for over 15. On Nov. 8, the folks of District 3 have the opportunity to elect a true leader and representative to fight for them on the County Commission.
Joe Smith has been married to Paula Smith for 41 years; they have two children of their own, and together they have taken in 19 foster children. Joe is a member of the community for folks to be proud of. Joe is a bridge builder. He does not know how to turn his back on anyone, and can make friends out of the worst of enemies.
Over the past 18 years, leading the YCAP ministry “Jabbin for Jesus”, Joe has taken a $40,000 budget and turned it into a $750,000 budget, opening three locations - one in Hamilton County, and two in Bradley County. This program has changed the lives of countless children and it has been
a family affair for the Smiths.
I ask that you vote Joe Smith to be your next county commissioner through early voting Oct.
19-Nov. 3 and on election day, Nov. 8.
Charles Hunt
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Although most letters relate to a very troubled national election, you can actually feel sure you are making the right choice in our local election by voting for Joe Smith. He is running as an independent for the County Commission seat vacated by Marty Haynes.
Joe cares about people, not politics. He is a conservative who believes he can accomplish his greatest wish - to improve the schools and continue to save the young people of Chattanooga, just like he has been doing for the past 15 years as originator and facilitator of YCAP, the organization that has saved hundreds of young people who are headed in the wrong direction.
Now you can make a difference. Vote for Joe.
Marcia Biggs
Hixson
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For many years, a champion for youth and families had valiantly served among us...both in District 3 and Greater Hamilton County/Chattanooga. His dedication to serve, fueled by his faith and genuine love, have awakened him in the wee hours of the morning to leave the safety and comfort of his home (a home shared with more than 20 foster children) to speak truth to an angry teen or drunken father. His dinner table has been a reprieve for many in need of food for their souls and stomachs. This champion is a man among men...DK Joe Smith.
Joe's faithfulness in all affairs attests to his leadership, impartiality, vision and wisdom. From coach to substance abuse counselor to youth pastor to regional director of YMCA's YCAP to Olympic boxing manager to much in between...Joe Smith has served with grit, grace and gusto. His creative, flexible thinking overcomes obstacles and conflicts to find solutions and build bridges.
Throughout my 16 year friendship with Joe and Paula Smith, I have met no other couple who transcend their commitment to "live" love within our community.
District 3, cast your vote for a champion with grit, grace and gusto...elect Joe Smith.
Amy Pearson
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Everyone should support Joe Smith for District 3 The decisions the Commission makes affect everybody in Hamilton County, not just one community.
We need strong leadership and a unified commission and Joe Smith will work to accomplish that not putting personal ambition ahead of anything else.
Ralph Miller
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Thank goodness for the Times Free Press. I was really concerned about our District 3 commission race, I opened the paper and Joe Smith had not just got one endorsement but that man got both sides of the paper.
I know how rare that is. Thank you, Free Press, for making this an easy decision. How could we vote for anyone else? By what I saw and read in the paper, if I truly want to be a part of and know I have a commissioner truly representing me and all the people of District 3, my choice is easy.
For me and my friends Joe Smith has our vote and support. Thanks again.
Daved Senters