Editor's Note: This is a paid political ad. James Phillips is an alderman candidate in the May 21 Kingsport Municipal Election. Early voting is currently underway in Blountville. Growing up in Kingsport with parents who were actively involved in community service, James Phillips learned early on the importance of giving back to your hometown. “My goal has always been to leave things better than I found them,” James began, “and being on the Board of Mayor and Aldermen is a way for me to do that.” With his level of community experience, his interactions with people from all walks of life, and his keen interest in making Kingsport a thriving and vibrant community, James Phillips offers newfound energy to the BMA. As a University of Tennessee graduate with a degree in advertising, James pursued his career at one of the largest advertising firms in the south located in Greenville, South Carolina.