by Chatham County Line Staff
Alfreda “Freda” Alston
Q: Who are you?
My name is Alfreda Alston (Freda). I have lived in Pittsboro for 66 years. I have two children and two grandchildren. I retired from the Department of Social Services with 31 years of service. I have coached, umpired and refereed for over 40 years in Chatham County and surrounding areas. I currently work in the Chatham County School System and have for 10 years. I also teach at CCCC teaching a class in Human Services. I also have been on the Pittsboro Planning Board for 20 years.
Q: Why are you running for Town Board?
I am running for Town Board because I see a need to continue my service beyond the Planning Board. Pittsboro is growing and the citizens of Pittsboro are important and I want to be that person for them. I feel the need to continue my work for the people of Pittsboro and to be more of a help I will need to move on from the Planning Board. With the citizens of Pittsboro’s help I can do that.
Q: What will you do for the citizens and stakeholders of Pittsboro if you are elected on Tuesday, November 4th?
If I am elected on Tuesday, November 4th I will be there for the citizens and stakeholders of Pittsboro. I will fight for them and do all I can to assure they are heard and will make the best decision that will benefit the people of Pittsboro. It is very important to listen to the citizens and stakeholders to see and hear what they want and need in the Town of Pittsboro and the best decision will be made. I will be here for them.
Alex Brinker
Q: Who are you?
My name is Alex Brinker and I have been a resident of Pittsboro since 2016. My wife and I have 4 children, 2 who have graduated from Northwood, and 2 that currently attend Pittsboro Elementary. I am an active member of the community and have met many of you while coaching youth football with ECC, refereeing for NFL Flag Football, cheering on our Northwood Chargers, or partnering with local businesses to support our annual Chatham County Toys for Tots Campaign.
I have spent my adult life dedicated to serving others. After nearly 22 years of service in the United States Marine Corps, I transitioned into civilian life and applied the leadership skills I developed in the military to the manufacturing industry, serving in leadership roles at GKN Automotive in Sanford, NC. I felt called to do more and now proudly serve as a Middle School Social Studies Teacher.
Q: Why are you running for Town Board?
I have decided to run for this position because I have seen tremendous growth in Pittsboro, and I have been lucky enough to continue to raise my children here. I want my 6-year-olds to grow up with the same experience of small-town charm, safety, and strong community spirit that we have had since moving here almost 10 years ago. Additionally, I believe leadership decisions need to be made in a timely manner with transparency and the utmost integrity. Over the years, I have seen my own taxes rise and home costs soar. With this, I want to hear the voice of the people when it comes to development and preserving future opportunities for our children so that they can reach the American Dream of home Ownership.
Q: What will you do for the citizens and stakeholders of Pittsboro if you are elected on Tuesday, November 4th?
If I am elected as Town Commissioner, I will listen to the voice of the people and pursue the concerns of the community. I will speak up when things are wrong, and ask questions where clarification is needed. I will focus on the financial burdens of the community, and ensure environmental concerns are addressed. You can count on me to focus on overcoming challenges like cost of water and sewage, healthy drinking water, storm water solutions, and future infrastructure to support growth. Additionally, I believe we must continue to serve our small businesses, maintain a safe and healthy community, and support our well-funded, fully staffed Police and Fire departments. Ultimately, I want to foster a community that embraces change but maintains our small-town charm and character.
Corey Forrest
Q: Who are you?
I’m Corey Forrest, a husband, father and Marine Corps veteran. I grew up in the small town of Bristolville, Ohio, and served in the United States Marine Corps immediately following high school, including a deployment to Afghanistan. In 2018 my wife and I moved to Pittsboro and quickly knew that it was where we wanted to plant roots. I am a Land Surveyor and currently serve as the Chairperson of the Pittsboro Planning Board.
Q: Why are you running for Town Board?
My motivation to run is a desire to see thoughtful, balanced growth in Pittsboro. I think that is a shared sentiment throughout the community. During my short time on the Planning Board, and years now as a professional land surveyor, I’ve gained a deep understanding of the development processes, and I want to use that experience to help guide development in a way that protects the character of Pittsboro and sincerely benefits the community.
Q: What will you do for the citizens and stakeholders of Pittsboro if you are elected on Tuesday, November 4th?
If Elected I will work to make sure Pittsboro sees responsible growth that protects the small town character that we currently enjoy. I’ll listen to residents, increase transparency in decision making, and ensure that development is balanced with the infrastructure, services and environmental protections that we need. My goal is for citizens and stakeholders of Pittsboro to feel supported and heard.
Ashley Gross
Q: Who are you?
I am a mom who loves this little corner of the world we call home. My husband and I have lived in many parts of North Carolina, but when we had our son, we knew that choosing where to raise him would be one of the most important decisions we would ever make. We found that place here in Chatham County. It is a community where you know your neighbors, the local bakery greets you by name and remembers your coffee order, you can still pick up a newspaper at the corner store, and the farmers market is the best around. I am committed to keeping it a place where families can thrive, neighbors feel connected, and every child has the chance to build their future right here.
Q: Why are you running for Town Board?
I see the blend of people who have called Chatham County home for generations and those who, like my family, are new to this special place. I believe our differences are not barriers but opportunities to learn from each other. My greatest strength is sitting down with people, even when we see things differently, and finding the common ground we share. As a researcher and an experimenter, I have learned that the most successful communities are built when people unite around shared interests and work toward shared goals. My background in technology has taught me the value of thoughtful, data-informed planning that puts people first. I want to bring that approach to serving Chatham County with respect, transparency, and collaboration.
Q: What will you do for the citizens and stakeholders of Pittsboro if you are elected on Tuesday, November 4th?
For me, unity starts with making sure families have the resources and opportunities to thrive right here in Chatham County. I will work to create good paying local jobs, expand broadband so every home and business can connect to the opportunities of the modern economy, support small businesses with tools to grow, and attract employers who align with our community’s values.
I will champion strong schools with STEM opportunities, partnerships with universities, and training programs for all ages so our workforce is prepared for the jobs of tomorrow. I will ensure fiscal responsibility by improving how the government works, planning carefully during times of growth, and making decisions based on facts and results.
Public safety will remain a priority, with modern emergency response systems, smart traffic solutions, and preparation for the weather risks we face so residents feel secure. I will also focus on senior services like telemedicine and transportation options that keep families connected across generations.
My leadership style is simple. Listen first, work together, and use common sense to guide decisions. Throughout this campaign, I look forward to listening to the concerns, hopes, and ideas of Chatham County residents because this is our home and its future belongs to all of us. Every choice I make will be guided by a simple question: will this keep our families safe, connected, and thriving. At the end of the day, I am a mom who believes Chatham County is at its best when we work as one community, where families stay close, opportunities grow here, and every neighbor feels they belong.
Candace Hunziker
Q: Who are you?
Inspired by Mr. Rogers’ reminder to “look for the helpers,” I’ve spent my life serving others. For over 30 years I’ve been involved in animal rescue, advocacy, and social and racial justice.
Born and raised in Sandy Hook, Connecticut, I spent 20 years in Atlanta where I worked in both residential and commercial construction and later as a magazine publisher’s assistant. That background gives me a strong understanding of development, its impact on people, and our environment.
In 2015 after a severe injury I moved to Pittsboro, to be closer to family (my parents, my 98-year-old grandmother, and my brother’s family).
During COVID, I helped keep my neighborhood connected—organizing food trucks, porch concerts, and holiday caravans. As HOA president, our team addressed stormwater restoration, launched a website, and built stronger connections helping our neighborhood earn “Best Neighborhood” in Chatham County.
Today, I manage four chiropractic clinics, including one in Pittsboro.
Q: Why are you running for Town Board?
At heart, I’m not a politician—I’m a neighbor. I care deeply about Pittsboro: its historic downtown, its people, its environment, and the small-town character that makes this place special. I see Pittsboro as one big neighborhood—growing, yes, but still a neighborhood. I don’t want us to lose that sense of community as we grow.
I’m running because I listen and I care about Pittsboro, present & future. And when I earn your vote, I will work every day to keep Pittsboro a place where people can live, work, and thrive.
Q: what will you do for the citizens and stakeholders of Pittsboro if you are elected on Tuesday, November 4th?
My goals in office are simple; build respectful relationships and make sure the right voices are at the table; developers and climate advocates, builders and affordable housing advocates and most importantly, the residents of Pittsboro. I’ll push for smart, controlled growth that puts people, Pittsboro and the environment first, while ensuring that roads, schools, water and public safety keep up. I’ll work for more transparency and better communication, protect our small-town character, and stay true to my values, listening, being open, and putting people first.
Tobais Palmer
Q: Who are you?
I am a son, a brother, a father, and a husband who grew up in Pittsboro, attended the public schools and graduated from Northwood High School where I played football and was one of the captains of my team.
I obtained two degrees at NC State University in business and sports management, played football at NC State and was one of the captains of my team at NC State as well. After graduation, I played six years in the NFL and nine total years in professional football.
I live in Chatham Forest with my family in a home one of my former football coaches, Eric Andrews, helped me find as my Realtor. I work in Apex and coach football at Seaforth High School. And I still race cars competitively on weekends when the time allows.
Q: Why are you running for Town Board?
I grew up in Pittsboro and attended Chatham County schools. This is my home. I want to ensure that Pittsboro stays affordable for all residents. For me this is an issue beyond just affordable housing. Taxes and fees should be reasonable so the entire community where I grew up can afford to live and potentially work in Pittsboro as it grows and prospers. I am the only African-American male running for Town Board and certainly one of the few in the state running with Native American heritage (I am also part Cherokee). I imagine that I am also likely one of the youngest candidates running for Town Board at age 35.
Since I filed to run for Town Board, I have learned that Isaiah E. Taylor was the first African American to serve on the Pittsboro Town Board while he was the principal of Horton High School and then Horton Middle School.
And I also learned that Mayor Pro-Tem Pamela Baldwin, who is not running again after serving five terms on the Town Board, was the second African-American elected to Town Board and first black woman elected to the Town Board in Pittsboro’s history in 2005.
If I am honored to be elected to serve the citizens of Pittsboro, I would be the first African American man on the Town Board since Isaiah Taylor left the board in 1979.
For that and many other reasons I think I bring a unique perspective that has not been on the Pittsboro Town Board in a long time which is why I am running for Pittsboro Town Commissioner.
Q: What will you do for the citizens and stakeholders of Pittsboro if you are elected on Tuesday, November 4th?
I will work to bring more entertainment options to Pittsboro for the youth, young adults and adults. And as Pittsboro grows, I will support more options for take out and sit down dining.
I will support investment in more recreational options for all ages including youth sports. To me this is an important way to connect the community, have options for young people after school and build town/community spirit. (I benefited from this spirit and made it to the NFL and I want to give it back to the next generation.)
Finally, I want to ensure that we have good clean drinking water with the move to TriRiver and that Pittsboro pays close attention to stormwater issues and the potential for flooding as our town grows and expands.
This should be a Town for all people and not just a few people and I feel my life experiences and perspectives will make Pittsboro deliver on its ideal to be a loving community of small town values with big city amenities.
Nikkolas Shramek
Q: Who are you?
Hello, I’m Nikkolas Shramek, a proud North Carolina resident for nearly two decades. Since 2010, I’ve worked in the financial industry as both a financial analyst and a cybersecurity defense engineer for a multinational firm. I’m also a licensed realtor and small business owner, with hands-on experience in budgeting, real estate development, and ethical business practices.
I’ve built a portfolio of residential and commercial properties across the Triangle, always with a focus on transparency and long-term value. Outside of work, I’m an avid outdoorsman fishing, golfing, kayaking and exploring the natural beauty that makes North Carolina so special. Pittsboro has given me opportunity, community, and a place to grow. Now, I’m ready to give back. I’m committed to preserving Pittsboro’s charm while supporting smart, respectful growth that protects nature and strengthens our shared future. I believe in leadership rooted in trust, and in building a town where everyone can thrive.
Q: Why are you running for Town Board?
I’m running for Town Board to preserve the charm and character of Pittsboro while guiding responsible growth. I welcome newcomers, as I was once welcomed, and value those who recognize the spirit of our town. My approach, growth with grace, protects our natural environment while thoughtfully accommodating a growing population. This is the best way I can give back to the community that embraced me years ago. I’m prepared to make tough decisions on development, traffic, taxes, and environmental concerns. I’ll advocate for clean water and air, affordable housing, and fair property taxes because every dollar matters. I support expanding recreational spaces and promoting healthy, happy living for all residents. With a background in financial analysis, budgeting, real estate development, and cybersecurity, I bring the experience and integrity needed to lead with transparency and purpose. Above all, I’ll work to strengthen trust and respect so we can grow together without losing what makes Pittsboro special.
Q: What will you do for the citizens and stakeholders of Pittsboro if you are elected on Tuesday, November 4th?
If elected to the Pittsboro Town Board, I will fight to preserve the beauty, charm, and character that make our town so special. As we face unprecedented growth, I’ll guide responsible, community-centered development that protects our natural environment and honors our small-town spirit. I’ll scrutinize budgets and financials to ensure transparency, accountability, and fiscal discipline. Clean water and air are non-negotiable rights, and I’ll work to safeguard them for future generations. I’ll champion affordable housing, fair property taxes, and expanded recreational spaces to support healthy, happy living for all residents. Pittsboro is a place where tradition meets opportunity, and I believe we can grow without losing what makes us unique. Above all, I’ll work to strengthen trust and respect across our community welcoming newcomers, listening to longtime residents, and making decisions that reflect our shared values. Together, we can shape a future that’s vibrant, inclusive, and true to Pittsboro.
Tiana Thurber
Q: Who are you?
My name is Tiana Thurber, I grew up in Chapel Hill and Pittsboro, and I currently live in Pittsboro, where I own Reclamation, a vintage store that reflects my passion for sustainability, creativity, and community.
In addition to running my business, I’m actively involved in supporting Pittsboro’s growth and vitality. I serve on the Downtown Pittsboro Advisory Board, act as President of the Pittsboro Business Association, and am proud to be recognized as a Main Street America Champion. These roles have allowed me to advocate for local businesses, strengthen our downtown, and help preserve the unique character of our town.
I’m a compassionate person who’s always willing to volunteer my time and energy to make a difference. I believe in the power of community, collaboration, and thoughtful leadership to shape a stronger future for Pittsboro.
Q: Why are you running for Town Board?
I’m running for Town Board because I care deeply about Pittsboro and believe in the power of thoughtful, community-centered leadership. As a small business owner and active volunteer, I see firsthand the opportunities and challenges facing our town, from responsible growth and downtown development to protecting the unique charm that makes Pittsboro special.
Through my work on the Downtown Pittsboro Advisory Board and as President of the Pittsboro Business Association, I’ve been a consistent advocate for local businesses, smart planning, and inclusive decision-making. I want to bring that same dedication, collaboration, and compassion to the Town Board.
Q: What will you do for the citizens and stakeholders of Pittsboro if you are elected on Tuesday, November 4th?
If elected to the Town Board, I will work to support and strengthen small businesses by encouraging thoughtful downtown development, promoting local entrepreneurship, and ensuring that town policies help businesses thrive. I will advocate for smart, sustainable growth that includes responsible residential and commercial development, protects green spaces, and ensures infrastructure keeps pace with our town’s expansion. I will also address traffic and safety challenges. In addition, I will work to enhance communication between the town and its residents by creating more opportunities for meaningful public engagement in the decisions that shape our community. I am committed to listening, learning, and putting in the work needed to serve Pittsboro effectively.
