February 19, 2010

Collier Names Campaign Chairman

(Mount Vernon) - Today, 19th district state senate candidate, Thom Collier announced that Jim Kelly will serve as his campaign chairman.  Kelly recently retired as public affairs manager for CenturyLink Communications.  Jim’s territory for CenturyLink (formerly Embarq, Sprint, and United Telephone) included four of the five counties in the 19th Senate District. 

Kelly served on the Ohio Economic Development Council, the Morrow County Economic Development Board, and the Area Development Foundation.  In addition, he has served on the boards of numerous Chambers of Commerce including Sunbury and Knox County where he was an Ambassador and served on the Legislative Committee. His public service includes more than 25 years with the United Way of Knox County, including a term as Chairman.  Kelly also served on the board of the American Red Cross, Knox Community Hospital Foundation Board, and was a member of the Rotary Club.

“I have known Thom and his family for more than 40 years.  I have worked with him as a business owner, community leader, and as a legislator.  I know Thom has the experience and knowledge we need to get the 19th district back on track.  I am pleased to join his senate campaign and contribute in any way I can.” Kelly commented.

Collier noted, “I am proud to have Jim Kelly step up to serve as our campaign chairman.  There are very few people who know the people and economic necessities of the area as well as Jim Kelly.  Jim will be a huge asset to our campaign. He has a great network of people throughout the 19th District. Jim shares both my values and my passion for bringing conservative leadership to the State Senate.  After 35 years in the telecommunications industry working with business leaders and economic development professionals, Jim knows that Ohio can’t afford to continue losing jobs and people to states with a better tax climate.”

Kelly resides in rural Knox County with his wife, of 43 years, Rose.  They have five adult children; Beth, of Tarrytown, NY; Erin, of Chicago, IL; Rob; Tom; and Meg, all of Columbus. The Kelly’s have eight grandchildren.

Collier’s senate campaign continues to gain momentum after outstanding grassroots fundraising efforts in 2009. At his website, ElectCollier.com, Collier has outlined the core values he believes are necessary to best serve the needs and the people of the 19th District.