We enthusiastically look forward to voting for Deborra Garrett for Superior Court Judge on our mail-in ballot due Aug. 7.

We have known Deborra since we were sworn in with her to practice law in this county more than 30 years ago. From the beginning, Deborra demonstrated an ethic of service that is remarkable. Her community service ranges from being on the Bellingham Planning Commission to pro bono counsel to the YWCA and Womencare Shelter. She has coached the Meridian High School Mock Trial team for more than a decade. The list of her volunteer contributions is too long for this letter.

As a professional, Deborra is a lawyers' lawyer in that she has the respect of her colleagues for her ethical standards, her intelligence, and her good judgment. She has the highest possible grade of "AV" from the most respected and oldest organization that independently rates lawyers. She has long and significant experience in Superior Court, representing plaintiffs and defendants, a background, which will serve her well as a judge. Deborra knows what it is like for a citizen to have to come to court. She will give all parties a chance to be heard and then apply the law carefully and correctly.

In sum, Deborra has both a good heart and a good head, and we need each in our judges.

Join us in voting for Deborra Garrett.

Mary Swenson and Hal Thurston

Bellingham