To the Editor:

My name is Eric Warner and I am running for St. Lawrence County Coroner Nov. 5 on the Democratic and Independent lines. I want to introduce myself to the constituents of St. Lawrence County.

I was born and raised in Heuvelton, son of John and Diane Warner. I graduated from Heuvelton Central School in 1999. In 2007, I married Kiera Cilley, and in 2011 we had our son, Kain. I currently live in Lisbon and run a Clydesdale horse farm. I am running for coroner under three basic principles: experience, compassion, and dedication.

I began working for Allen-Denesha and Allen-Nichol funeral homes in 1999 as a senior in high school. In 2003, I graduated with my mortuary science degree and became a full time funeral director. On top of over 10 years of being a funeral director, I am also required to complete 12 hours of continuing education biannually. Two of these hours must be state laws and regulations. Therefore, I have had both training and experience in the aspects required of coroner.

The main reason I became a funeral director was the opportunity to interact with people. This is both difficult and rewarding. Everyone grieves differently, and everyone’s needs are different during these difficult times. I have learned how to help people cope through all the stages of grief. As coroner, I will be able to provide the right level of compassion at the right time.

I am most looking forward to serving as coroner because I am dedicated to serving the county where I was born and raised. I have always been and continue to be involved in many organizations. I am a board member of the St. Lawrence County Draft Horse Club, the director of ProMusica, chair of the DePeyster Festival, parade chairman of the Heuvelton Labor Day Festivities, and secretary/treasurer and head assigning judge of the Northern New York Parade Music Judges Association. I have previously been involved with the Macomb Grange, Heuvelton Lion’s Club, and Canton Goldenaires.

I also have a history of religious service. I began playing church organ when I was 16 years old. I am currently playing for both the Heuvelton Presbyterian Church and St. John’s Episcopal Church of Ogdensburg. I have provided musical ministry for church services, Sunday school programs, weddings and funerals. I have also served as a trustee, president of administrative council, and choir director. This history gives me an advantage in providing sympathy and kindness.

On Nov. 5 please go and vote Eric Warner for coroner!

Eric J. Warner

Lisbon