The GOP tour bus pulled up just a little after 8 a.m. last Wednesday morning as the Republican grassroots campaign made its way through Crenshaw County.

Five candidates who will be on the Nov. 4 Republican ballot stopped at the Crenshaw County Courthouse and greeted a large crowd. They were welcomed by Crenshaw County Republican Party Chairman Suze Butts and the county party’s secretary, Judge Terry Butts.

“We have worked with all of these people both professionally and personally, and we would be proud to have them represent us,” Judge Terry Butts said.

Twinkle Andress Cavanaugh, who is running for Public Service Commission President, is originally from Honoraville, while Judge Bill Thompson, who is seeking re-election to the Court of Civil Appeals Place 1, has ties to Crenshaw County.

“I can remember coming here during the summer and visiting Mr. Joe Ed (Horn’s) store,” Thompson said, smiling. “It was always hot in there.”

Thompson’s parents were also present in the crowd.

Beth Kellum is running for Court of Criminal Appeals Place 1. She said that based on her past public service record and experience, she had “plenty of on the job training” for the new position.

Also scheduled for the tour but absent last Wednesday was Judge Greg Shaw, who was in Birmingham due to his father’s having surgery. Shaw is running for the Alabama Supreme Court.

Mary Windom is running for Court of Criminal Appeals Place 2.

“America needs John McCain and Sarah Palin in the White House,” an impassioned Windom said. “People in the media are making fun of Palin’s small town, but America needs to hear from more small towns just like Wasilla, Alaska.”

Windom is the wife of Steve Windom, Lieutenant Governor of Alabama from 1999 to 2003.

“This court needs someone with strong ethics, and I believe that I’m the person for that position,” Windom said.

Chairman Suze Butts also thanked outgoing Crenshaw County Republican Party Chairman Jimmy Lester and Secretary Rene Lester for the job they have done for the county’s party in the past.

The GOP grassroots campaign continued through the county, making a stop in Brantley around 9 that morning.