By Tyler Pruett
tyler@southerntorch.com
RAINSVILLE, Ala. — Tina Pike attended nine different schools in the area growing up, ending at Fyffe High School. Pike got pregnant her senior year, and was encouraged to quit school and get her GED. Pike would get her GED, but would also complete nursing school in the same year. Her nursing graduation came on the same night as her high school graduation. Tina got her first job at age 13 at the College Corner Restaurant, and has served the public for 41 years. Pike and her husband Steven have five children and seven grandchildren between them. Steven made his support known for his wife’s candidacy in a heartfelt Facebook message:
“Time after time I have seen her put others needs' above her own and their is absolutely NO doubt that she would do the same for the citizens of our great city regardless of their social or economic background,” Steven said.
Pike serves on the board of directors of Addicts 4 Christ and also manages the charity thrift store. Their mission is to give hope and support to those that are struggling with addiction. She is also active with other charitable organizations such as Food to Families and Lighthouse of Hope.
Tina decided to run for office after a sermon one Sunday. The pastor made the remark, “We have a duty to vote, and pray for elections.” Tina took this as a sign of what she should do in life, but still argued with God for two years before choosing to run.
If Pike wins the election, she plans to focus on needed renovations to city properties. One of these renovations is improvements to city hall and bringing the building up to standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Mrs. Pike raised her concerns at a previous council meeting.
“I want to make sure that city hall and the police department is up to government standards. At the meeting they were about to vote on new security measures without thinking of handicap accessibility,” Pike said.
She also supports open door policies in terms of city council meetings as well as mandatory attendance policies for city council members.
“You can’t consult with the citizens that elected you behind closed doors,” Pike said.
“I understand that there are unexpected events in our life that will take us away from responsibility, but when you commit to something, you should be dependable if at all possible,” Pike explained.
Pike will be on the ballot against incumbent councilman Joey Graham and fellow challenger Marshall Stiefel for the August municipal elections. There could be other challengers to join the race before the qualifying deadline on July 5.
