Thomas, Spangler highlight rally

Sandra ClarkUncategorized

You can learn a lot from how a man climbs on a box to speak to 400 or so rowdy Republicans at Powell Auction’s baloney cutting.

Bob Thomas, candidate for county mayor, didn’t acknowledge the box. Box? What box? After his introduction by WIVK Radio DJ Gunner, Thomas jumped on the box behind the microphone and started talking.

A former radio announcer himself, Thomas is a polished speaker. He said government service is like planting a tree. The planter may not enjoy the results, but “we’re working today for our children and grandchildren.”

Tom Spangler, candidate for sheriff, first acknowledged the obvious. “Now I’m going to give you something to laugh about,” he said before stepping up on the box. And then he reflected on how life goes for folks of “regular height” in a world of tall podiums and microphones left pointing skyward.

Spangler is a cop’s cop. He acknowledged loyalty to the employees of the office he seeks. “After spending 30 years there, it has become a second family.” But he added: “It’s not just about the sheriff’s office. It’s about the community. You deserve the best law enforcement and you will get the best. Period.

“Strong and transparent leadership is more than a promise,” he said. “It’s what I have done and will continue to do.”

Retired Capt. Don Jones introduced Spangler, talking about his qualifications to be sheriff. He was named chief deputy by former Sheriff Tim Hutchison. When Jimmy “J.J.” Jones became sheriff, he kept Spangler as chief deputy. “I don’t know of another chief deputy for two sheriffs,” said Jones.

Don Jones cited Spangler’s background in law enforcement training, his work on the city-county metro drug taskforce and his experience with domestic violence and child abuse.

After the rally, we found Howard Phillips to suggest he build a ramp to the box so future candidates didn’t have to jump. The tall, lanky Phillips was huddled with his son Kenny, trying to get Knox TN Today installed on his cell phone. He wanted to see the replay of the Ciderville band playing “Rocky Top.”

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