Editor,

I read with interest the recent article “3 candidates vie for superior court judge,” and applaud the thoughtful — and early — attention being paid to this important position. Judicial races too often are overlooked by voters, who say they know too little of the candidates. Yet judges play the most important role in our judicial system. That’s why I hope everyone will take the time to familiarize themselves with the candidates in this race. If they do, I am convinced they will support Carolyn Cliff for Island County Superior Court judge.

Carolyn is working hard to meet as many people as possible on Whidbey and Camano Islands so they can get to know her. When they do, they will find many reasons to support Carolyn.

First, Carolyn has more judicial experience than the other two declared candidates. For two decades, she has served as a Judge Pro Tem for Island County Superior Court. She also served as a Judge Pro Tem in Island County District Court, a Superior Court Commissioner and as a Langley Municipal Court Judge. She has a reputation for being impartial, treating everyone fairly, and for doing meticulous research of each case’s applicable laws — whether a criminal or civil trial.

Second, as a successful trial attorney, she has a proven record of helping people resolve a variety of complex issues both in — and out of court, thus saving her clients’ hard-earned money. She treats everyone with respect, compassion and patience.

Third, I am impressed with her commitment to our community. She’s active at the grassroots level, and I believe we need more leaders in elective office who really care about their neighbors and the communities in which we live. That caring, community-minded spirit is an important attribute for a judge whose decisions greatly impact the lives of those before her.

As retiring Judge Vickie Churchill, commented in the article, “There are a lot of things you need to do to make the system better, and it is not all from the bench.” And she clearly believes Carolyn Cliff is the person who can do that because she has endorsed Carolyn.

If you have the opportunity to meet Carolyn when she’s out doorbelling, or by attending a meeting or joining a neighborhood coffee for Carolyn, I urge you to do so. Knowing the candidates is critical to casting your vote.

Maggie Brown

Freeland