I have been operating a convenience store in East Spencer for several years, and I have to mention that Alderman Tony J. Hillian has been a big part of our success.

Tony cares about this community and it is evident in all of his activities. Tony frequents my store several times per week and is consistently questioned by citizens about different issues. He handles the citizens with care, always taking the time to listen and explain how things could be worked out. He is very effective at negotiation and making the necessary contacts with other influential people.

An example is that I have been trying for some time to get my wife a visa to join our family here in North Carolina. I spoke with Tony and he communicated my needs to several people. Within three months, the government contacted me and informed me that the visa was being processed. Tony gets the job done.

If you have been paying attention to the activities in East Spencer over the last two years, you have to acknowledge that Tony is the one driving all the action. The Soul Food Festival was a success because it was basically engineered by Tony.

Tony understands the needs of the people here. He understands their frustrations, and he works hard to ensure that we take pride in being here in the 28039, as he affectionately calls it.

New leadership is needed. I feel confident that Tony has excellent leadership, management and the ability to govern. He is on several boards and demonstrates his leadership across the county.

People must vote to make him our mayor and leader of the future.

— Nasr Mohsen Al Shaman

East Spencer