GOP party faithful gathered for a "Soup and Sandwich" fundraiser at the Vinton County (Ohio) Community building April 10. Both local and district candidates were on hand to discuss current issues and address voter concerns. While dining on tasty chili and homemade cookies, those in attendance discussed the major hurdles facing both Vinton County and the nation. As one would expect, the recently passed Obama healthcare plan, and what, if anything could be done to repeal the measure, was a hot topic during the evening.

"Once again the United States Congress went wildly out of control with their attempt to resolve a challenge facing this nation," Republican Congressional candidate, Bob Gibbs, stated. "This bill immediately raises taxes, cuts Medicare and hurts our seniors. The notion that this bill creates jobs or decreases the deficit is simply absurd. Perhaps the most disappointing was seeing the principled stand of some members, who refused to vote for this bill if it included public funding of abortion, with an agreement to vote for it with only the assurance of an unsustainable compromise that doesn't address the pro-abortion language of the bill."

Gibbs, and his wife Jody, spent the weekend touring the southern area of the eighteenth congressional district, also making a stop to address a Tea Party gathering in Jackson and at the Hocking County National Rifle Association banquet. Mrs. Gibbs shared her concerns and support for the education of children in the district. She works in a public school cafeteria and has witnessed first hand the joys and obstacles faced by families and educators. Although surely weary from a long weekend on the road, Gibbs' spoke with residents and local elected officials at length, speaking freely about his goals, voting record and detailed plans if elected."

Zack Space cast a critical vote early on to set us on this path. His retreat from his earlier vote does not absolve him from the blame for what will now happen to our economy and to already out of control federal spending," Gibbs stated.

Vinton County is a rural area and does not have a large number of votes to offer candidates. As such, district and statewide candidates sometimes make just a single obligatory stop in the area during an election cycle. The odd design of the 18th congressional district also creates some disconnect between the northern and more urban areas and communities near the rural southern boundary. Candidate Gibbs and his wife, who have a background in agriculture, appeared immediately at ease with residents and interacted on a personal level with citizens in regards to the daily struggles faced by so many due to the struggling economy. Perhaps the Gibbs' introduction to the Vinton County community was enhanced by the support of long-time friend and professional peer, Clyde Evans.

Representative Evans has served seven years in the Ohio House representing the 87th District, and is currently running for a seat representing the 17th District in the Ohio Senate. Evans has been a fixture at community events and governmental meetings in the region for decades. Considering the thousands of local officials, party members and citizens Representative Evans has met with during his terms in office, his name recall with seemingly everyone he meets is impressive. Evans voting record and goals have deviated little during his years of public service, a testament to the tried and true method of employing a common sense approach to problem solving, responding to voter concerns and a "boots on the ground" leadership style."

Job creation and retention remain a top concern for citizens all across Ohio," Evans commented. "I have a proven track record of protecting Ohio jobs and cutting job killing governmental red tape."

Recently Representative Evans worked with local leaders and community groups to help pass a two million dollar plan to attract business and investors to rural areas. The plan include enabling rural areas with the high speed internet access necessary for modern businesses to not only survive, but thrive, while shipping or serving clients from around the world. The project also protects and builds highways and bridges to increase the opportunity for quicker and safe shipping routes."

I enjoy getting the opportunity to talk one-on-one with citizens, and hearing first hand what they are most concerned about. I have always run a positive campaign focusing on my record and plans, and don't plan on stooping to the negative ads my opponent endorses."

When asked about the barrage of negative advertisements and claims made by his opponent, Evans was more than willing to discuss the subject."

One really bizarre example is a recent advertisement about my support of a bill giving monetary support to a Ukraine museum. While the ad leads the public to believe I was in favor of sending money overseas to a museum in the Ukraine, the reality of the issue is quite the opposite. When I voted awhile back, in support of a bill, which offered funds to cultural and historic groups in the district, one that also gave funds to the Vinton County Historical Society, funds were included for a community in the district, which has a sizeable population of descendents and immigrants from the Ukraine. The museum showcased cultural artifacts and historical items accumulated from the community, similar to what is found in the local historical museum. What is really kind of funny about the whole thing, is that my opponent voted to support the "Ukraine Museum" twice," Evans shared with a chuckle.

Incumbent Vinton County Auditor, Cindy Owings helped organize the event, and spoke with residents concerning government programs, which help defray the costs of property taxes. "I always enjoy having the opportunity to discuss concerns with the voters of Vinton County." Owings said. "The deadline for the Homestead Exemption is the first Monday in June. Myself, and my staff are available to help residents determine if they meet the guidelines and complete the necessary forms."

Jeanette Moll, also a Republican candidate for the 18th congressional district stopped by the community event. Moll previously ran a failed campaign against Zack Space, and addressed party members at a local diner during her visit to the county during that campaign.

"I'm running because there is a clear need for change in Washington, From the ethics scandals in 2006 to Zack Space's continued gaffes, this district needs someone who will worry about the economy, spending, jobs, the war on terror and health care rather than getting re-elected," Moll's website introductory message states.

Resources used for this article was attendance at the event, interviews with candidates and their respective Web sites.

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