​​By Gary Wisenbaker (Blackstone, LLC.), Chamber Campaign Academy Chairman
 
Thinking about running for public office?  The Chamber wants to encourage pro-business candidates to throw their hats in the ring, and to learn about the campaign process.
 
The Chamber will once again team up with Mark Rountree, CEO of Landmark Communications, when it presents its 2018 Chamber Campaign Academy on Tuesday, February 6, 2018.
 
“Mark brings a world of experience to the table,” said Chamber President Myrna Ballard, “and we’re delighted to have him back with us.”
 
Landmark Communications is a political consulting and communications firm based in Metro Atlanta, Georgia. With more than 25 years of professional experience in more than 1,500 elections, Landmark is Georgia's most experienced political firm, according to its website.
 
“2018 looks to be a competitive year on all levels,” Rountree said, observing that both parties will be fighting hard for votes and “that means there’ll be ample opportunities for folks to serve their communities no matter which party they elect to compete in.”
 
Chamber Campaign Academy chairman Gary Wisenbaker also looks forward to working with Rountree and Landmark Communications. 
 
“Mark and I go way back to the late eighties and early nineties in the political arena,” Wisenbaker said. “His insights will certainly benefit the attendees, Republican and Democrat alike, on messaging, finding your voters, and getting them to the polls.”
 
Local political party leaders, election board staff, and elected officials will also participate and offer guidance on topics such as qualifying procedures and fees, campaign committees, fund raising, reporting requirements, and knowing what the critical campaign dates are. They’ll also talk about the time requirements one can expect as a candidate and as an elected official.
 
Elections will be held in 2018 to fill the following offices:  US House Districts 1 and 8; /State Senate District 8; State House Districts 177, 176, 175, and 174; a Superior Court Judgeship; Lowndes County Commission Districts 2, 3, and 4; and Lowndes County Board of Education Districts 1, 2, 3. Lake Park will vote for mayor and two city council seats that year as well.
 
Municipal elections will be held in 2019 to fill the post of Mayor of Valdosta and City Council Districts 1, 3, 5, and an at-large post.  Other municipal elections will be held in Hahira for City Council Districts 2 and 3; and  Valdosta City School Board Districts 1, 2, and 3 will be up for grabs. Dasher will fill two city council posts and Remerton will elect a mayor and two city councilmen.
 
For more information on the Chamber Campaign Academy, visit www.valdostachamber.com/gac-events, or call Myrna Ballard at 229-247-8100, Ext. 222.