Local candidates wishing their names on the 2008 General Election this fall have until noon today to file a qualifying application. Democrats qualify at the office of Joe Kunes and Republican candidates at the office of Joseph Carter. Both offices are located on Second Street across from the Tift County Courthouse.

According to the Secretary of State’s Web site, the qualifying period for nonpartisan, independent and political body candidates for the Nov. 4 General Election will begin at 9 a.m. June 23 and end at noon on June 27.

As of the end of the day Thursday, the following people have qualified for office and are listed along with their party affiliations.

• Tift County Judge of Probate Court

Suzanne Carter Johnson (Rep. - incumbent)

Ella Pettiford (Dem.)

D. Brian Walker (Rep.)

• Tift County Magistrate Court Judge

Doug Jones (Rep. - incumbent)

Clay Yelverton (Rep.)

• Tift County Commission, District 7 (Chair)

Daughtry Melton (Dem.)