Letters to the Editor

To the editor,

I had the opportunity to observe Brooke Burns practice law in my courts in the Hells Canyon Circuit, the Superior Courts of Asotin, Columbia, and Garfield counties, from 2006 until I retired in 2014. She was always well prepared, steady on her feet, and a great listener. Issue identification and analysis were second nature to her. She has a temperament that would suit her well on the bench. I highly recommend Brooke Burns for Superior Court Judge of the Hells Canyon Circuit.

William D. Acey,

Retired Superior Court Judge

Clarkston, Wash.

To the editor,

Judge G. Scott Marinella is the right choice for Superior Court Judge–Asotin/Columbia/Garfield Counties.

I have known Judge Marinella professionally for over 10 years. He possesses 36 years of combined diverse, solid judicial and legal experience. He is currently an elected District Court Judge and Superior Court Commissioner. His legal experience also includes many years as a private practice attorney and as a deputy prosecuting attorney.

In reference to an article dated July 22, 2020 in the Lewiston Tribune, Judge Marinella’s opponent made light of the duties of a District Court Judge. This is a common tactic in judicial races when the opponent cannot match the judicial experience and/or qualifications of the other candidate. To clarify District Court duties, Judge Marinella handles traffic infractions, misdemeanor/gross misdemeanor criminal cases, including all pre-trial motions, plea and sentencing changes. Many criminal cases involve domestic violence, protection orders, and anti-harassment/stalking orders. He is also responsible for impaneling a fair and impartial jury, making evidentiary decisions and managing all aspects of both civil and criminal jury trials. This does not include the additional duties as a Superior Court Commissioner.

Experience Matters. Judge Marinella is intelligent, hard-working and he is well prepared to be your next Asotin/Columbia/Garfield Superior Court Judge. He cares deeply about his family and the communities he serves. He believes all cases are important. Judge Marinella will be an excellent addition to the Superior Court bench.

Joseph M. Burrowes, Judge, Benton-Franklin Superior Court

West Richland, Wash.

To the editor,

I have been privileged to know Jim Nelson for 32 years and am honored to call him my friend.

Jim was raised in Dayton and started his public service career in Moscow Idaho as a Police Officer. Following his love of the outdoors, Jim became a Washington State Fish and Wildlife Officer and was stationed in Pomeroy in 1988, I believe. That is when I first met Jim, being his neighboring officer in Clarkston.

Although he had plenty of opportunities to promote, Jim and his wife Sue, chose to remain in Pomeroy because of their love for the community. Throughout the course of his career, Jim earned the reputation as one of the finest Fish and Wildlife Officers in the State. During most of his career, he doubled as a reserve deputy Sheriff, for the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office.

During all of those years that Jim and I worked together with Fish and Wildlife, (1988 - 2001) he could always be counted on when I needed help. He always conducted himself in a professional manner, treating others with respect and dignity.

During my 30-year career, I worked with a lot of good people, but none finer than Jim. If you were to talk to others who have worked with Jim, I am sure they would say the same.

Jim received numerous awards during his career with the Department of Fish and Wildlife, including the Award of Valor for being credited with saving the life of a young girl by apprehending the predator who had kidnapped her.

He is currently the Resource Officer for the Pomeroy School District. His dedication to his community, his honesty, integrity, and professionalism will make Jim Nelson a great Garfield County Commissioner.

Ken Woltering

Clarkston, Wash.