Editor,

I have known Brad Bates for many years, as a friend and a fellow Rotarian. Most know that Brad was mayor for eight years. Some will recall that his daughter Augusta and he were the driving force behind the planning, fundraising and building of the Children’s PlayPark at Donnelly Park.

Brad was also the concept originator and promoted the idea for Turlock’s first dog park at Sunnyside Park, and that became a very successful Turlock Rotary project. Other Rotary projects I worked on with Brad included painting at Jessica’s House, Turlock Together and others.

Brad has been involved in making Turlock better not just as a political leader, but as a volunteer. A motto of Rotary International is “Service above Self,” and I believe Brad is a good representation of that principal.

If elected again as mayor, I know that Brad will continue to serve Turlock in providing a high quality of life, always striving for our community to reach our highest potential.

Please join me in supporting Brad Bates for Turlock mayor this Tuesday.

— Lawana Earl