MCDANIEL Blacksburg businessman Tracy McDaniel said Wednesday that he will seek the Republican Party nomination in the special election for the District 7 seat on Cherokee County Council.

McDaniel said, "I know that by my workforce experience, education, community service, managerial skills and Christian ethics, I am well qualified to be a responsible, effective, and conservative representative for the people of Cherokee County."

McDaniel and his wife, Karen, are lifelong residents of Cherokee County. They were raised in the Hopewell Community. Mrs. McDaniel is a teacher at Blacksburg Primary School while McDaniel works in the family construction business which was founded in 1966. They have two children: Jordan who is a college sophomore and Hunter who is a high school student.

McDaniel is a graduate of Blacksburg High School and Limestone College where he received a BS in Business Management and Administration. "I gained valuable experience in my work as a branch manager at First Piedmont Federal and in my present position as vice president and chief financial officer of McDaniel Construction, Inc.

McDaniel is a member of Hopewell Baptist Church where he served as Deacon, member of the financial committee, teller, and choir member. He has been president of the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, president of the Blacksburg Rotary Club and a member of the local Salvation Army Advisory Board.

"I have been urged by numerous people to seek this seat. After much thought and consideration, I have decided to enter this race as a Republican candidate. I can assure you that I will always look for better and more economical ways to approach the problems of our county and take a proactive stance in providing the best service in the most sensible way for our county and its people."

Barry Hamrick of Gaffney states, "I have known Tracy McDaniel for many years. He is a person of integrity and impeccable character. Trace is a well-qualified candidate. I believe he will do an excellent job in representing the people."