Skinner has the knowledge to serve

Steve Skinner made a great impression on me a couple of weeks ago in Antioch whenI attended the Democratic debate for the Lake County Board District 1 primary race.

I was disappointed by the low turnout since this was the first democratic debate for District 1 to ever occur. I was glad I went because there was one candidate who stood out that night, and he was businessman Steve Skinner.

Mr. Skinner was by far the most knowledgeable candidate with the experience necessary to serve on the county board. He is well spoken and he is someone who cares about the people in Lake County. Skinner has some excellent ideas and solutions to the many challenges ahead. It was great to finally hear someone tell it like it is and not make promises that are soon forgotten.

He laid out the rough road ahead, but he offered positive solutions instead of the gloom and doom that we have become accustomed toin the last few years. Skinner knows his stuff and he gave concise, well informed answers.

Skinner is also the best candidate because he's got the business and financial background we need in someone to oversee the half-billion dollar county budget. Steve has worked his way up and his diverse work experience means he understands and relates to the working men and women, as well as the business owners in Lake County.

Among the three Democratic primary candidates, Skinner is the only one with a record of public service and the only one who has held an elected office.

Mr. Skinner's openness and honesty is a breath of fresh air and he is exactly who should be our next Lake County Board member. I have no doubt who I am voting for in the Feb. 5 primary, because Steve also has the best shot at winning the election in November. Please pull a Democratic ballot and vote for Steve Skinner on Feb. 5.

John K. Van Dien

Lindenhurst