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Grensky taught well

Ron Grensky's teachers taught him well. He understands that he should give back whatever he can to the community that supported him all the years of his childhood. He has used his considerable ability to serve us in the Senate, and now is offering to continue to serve as our judge.

Most of us are not able to do much for the hometown on a personal level, but we too can serve by voting for Ron Grensky for judge.

-- Larry L. Dickson, Eagle Point

Arnold's the best

Phil Arnold is the best choice for circuit court judge. He has been my friend since 1984 and I know Phil to be a man of good character who treats people fairly.

As we saw when Phil was on the Ashland City Council, Phil can clarify the facts and then arrive at good decisions. I encourage everyone to vote for Phil, because he is the best choice.

-- Richard E. Haveman, Ashland

Fine lawyer

I may not get to vote for a judge again for a long time, so it is great to be able to do it this year. I will vote for Ron Grensky. I like him. He is a fine lawyer and will be a terrific judge.

-- Jeremiah Nisdet, Phoenix

Community service

The election of a judge is not a patrician decision, but one to be made in keeping with fairness, experience and the ability to be objective in applying the law. It is not a popularity contest based upon political agendas or his supporter's political affiliation.

Judge Arnold's record of service to the community and the law is to be taken into account. The governor in appointing Judge Phil Arnold determined (after interviews and reviews of many candidates) -- that he has the balance and integrity to fill this most honored position.

The support of his peers (the bar), who most consistently observe his work and work with him, speak to his credibility and integrity. The choice is clear!

-- Phillip and Chris Mason, Medford

High standards

I have lived in Central Point for 45 years. For the past 27 years I have had the pleasure of being a teacher in this district. Our high standards for children in our district are well known throughout Southern Oregon.

The school construction levy on the ballot on May 19 will help us maintain those high standards for our kids. In the 1940s the buildings at Central Point Elementary were moved in from Camp White to provide "temporary" classroom space -- they are still in use!

Many of our classrooms are overcrowded. At times we are forced to bus students from their home school to neighboring schools because of this overcrowding. These are but two examples of the need to pass the bond levy.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the patrons of District 6 for their support in the past and ask them to please be there for our kids on May 19.

-- Ann Britt, Central Point

Education & calamity

H.G. Wells once said that human history more and more has become a race between education and calamity. This seems to be as true today as it was when he first spoke these words. Education is expensive; the only thing more expensive is ignorance. The District 6 bond issue to be decided May 19 is critical to the health of our schools in this area.

Dilapidated buildings and dangerous playgrounds need to be upgraded to give students in our area an equal chance to succeed. I hope everyone understands the long-term consequences of funding and supporting education. Join me in voting yes for the District 6 bond measure.

-- Patrick Walden, Gold Hill

Ron cares

I've known Ron Grensky for many years and have used him for legal advice. No matter how busy Ron was, he always made time for me, even when I would just drop in to see him.

He always listed patiently and gave me sound advice, which more often than not he didn't even charge me for because he knows I can't afford it.

I don't know much about how to pick a judge, I admit, but I do know Ron cares about people and tries to help people who need it, like me. I'm very grateful for all of his help and I'm proud to vote for him for judge.

-- Paul D. Andrade, Phoenix

Harris' spirit

Last fall Dan Harris was appointed by Gov. Kitzhaber to replace Loren Sawyer as a circuit court judge for Jackson County. His commitment to fairness, willingness to listen with an open mind and desire to improve the justice system qualified him for that appointment and those same qualities continue to qualify him for election.

In addition to his expansive legal background at the local and state level, Judge Harris brings insight gained through community involvement. From little league coach to scoutmaster to school board member, he has shown a sincere commitment to our community.

His unique blend of professional expertise and community spirit make Dan Harris an excellent choice for Jackson County circuit judge. I invite you to join me as I cast my vote for him in the coming election.

-- Edwin Bennion, Medford

Great judge

I'm writing to join everyone who is supporting Ron Grensky for judge. I know he's a man with strong values who wants to do what is right as a judge just as he's done as our state senator, judge pro tem and attorney. Personally, I admire anyone who will take a cut in pay to serve the people. Ron Grensky will make a great judge.

-- Ladya Holy, Medford

Recommends Frank

I can highly recommend Larry Frank for state representative. Larry is a mature, long-time resident of Jackson County where he has been involved in the local school board and where he has served his peers in his professional organization as well.

Larry has earned the respect of a wide variety of others representing management, labor, education and taxpayer groups.

Larry does not represent a narrow segment of this area or special interest groups. Instead, he has the broader interest of all at heart.

Please vote for Larry Frank on May 19.

-- Ken Lindbloom, Medford

Popular causes?

Judge Phil Arnold in his campaign to be retained as circuit judge has been attacked for representing certain persons who questioned the constitutionality of the county's jail practices. Does this mean that a lawyer is free to represent only popular causes and should reject representation of the less savory?

No political agenda

Have you wondered why the overwhelming support of attorneys and other judicial system workers, regardless of their person political orientation, is for Phil Arnold? Simple answer -- he is open-minded, even-handed, scholarly, ethical and conscientious -- an ideal judicial temperament.

He carries no political agenda. Also, he works well with the other judges, which is essential to the smooth functioning of our recently consolidated court structure.

Ron Grensky is ambitions, issue-oriented and goal-driven -- better qualities for a legislator than a judge. I am scared by Ron's introduction of political-style campaigning into the judicial selection process. The idea of an "independent judiciary" will be seriously threatened if judicial candidates have to raise campaign chests and then take office beholden to their financial backers.

I'm certain most of us would be very dissatisfied with having future judicial decisions made by "the best judges money has bought," as we now dislike having our laws passed by "the best legislators that money can (and does) buy."

-- Wm. E. Duhaime, Medford

Both judges

I work closely with both Judge Phil Arnold and Judge Dan Harris. They are fine men who work hard. They have earned the respect of this community by being intelligent, dedicated and fair. They have been subjected to vigorous examination by the legal community and the public at large.

They have been serving the public on a daily basis for the last several months. As presiding judge, I hear the criticisms and complaints. I only hear good things about these men. I support their election and urge you to do the same.

-- Ross G. Davis, Medford

Kind man

Ron Grensky is a kind man. I asked him for a sign and he brought one to my house. I'm glad that my mom and dad are voting for Ron Grensky! Thank you, Ron!

-- Chelsea Cason, Central Point

Unfair advantage

I believe that when a candidate uses his elective political offices to gain an unfair advantage over other candidates in a contested race, he should be censured.

I am amazed that Atkinson, a candidate for Congress, has not resigned from his positions as Jackson County chairman, and vice chairman of the Oregon Republican Party.

I cannot understand why candidates and party officials have not demanded his resignation. To aggregate this much political power and then to use these offices to promote his candidacy in a contested primary is not only unseemly, but in clear violation of standards of neutrality.

If Atkinson is willing to abuse the power granted him as an elected political officer of his party, there is no question that he would use his congressional office and power to promote his self-interest.

-- Layton DeZell, Central Point

Independent judge

I want to encourage everyone to join me in voting for Tom Dzieman for Circuit Court Judge. Tom Dzieman runs for this position because he thinks he is the best person for the job, and he thinks the voters should have a choice.

Having the opportunity to work for him, I found him to be professional and hard-working. He is extremely ethical and trustworthy. He has taken cases knowing that he would not receive any fee, merely because the person really needed an attorney.

I've watched him in the courtroom. He has always been thoroughly prepared and ready for the battle. Yet he is aware of the importance of the tradition and procedures. He is truly at home in the court.

Tom Dzieman has not sought the endorsements of any politicians. He wants to work for and represent you in the third branch of our government.

-- Sue Campbell, Medford

For Atkinson

For Wes Cooley to continue to use the word "Korea" with reference to his service in the Army is a disservice and insult to those who served, were wounded, died, taken prisoner or, like my husband and friends, endured the Chosin Reservoir. If it is too difficult for Wes Cooley to be honest with himself, and just use the dates or words "stateside" to validate his time and location and not even imply Korea, it's a wonder what other issues Wes Cooley is confused about.

One who chooses to willingly mislead others or use inaccurate information, even after publicly proven wrong, is not a person who is dedicated to honest service, like those who served in Korea.

When considering a candidate to represent our best interests, a person of integrity and honesty is the only choice. There's only one on the ballot: Perry Atkinson.

-- Barbara Farmer, Medford

Vote for Cain

Donna Cain is a candidate for state representative of District 46. She was raised in Southern Oregon. I have known her for many years and respect her integrity and high principles. She believes a community's strength comes from diversity of opinion, experience and culture. She believes in the power of grassroots political activism, and in a government that requires personal responsibility while protecting the worth of the individual.

Donna Cain has set specific, measurable goals to work for: saving the dams, smaller government, limiting taxes, education reform and the need for strong family values. She has developed a strategy to achieve those goals and specific action steps needed to carry them out. She knows the issues that affect our lives, our children's lives and our communities.

A vote for Donna Cain is in the best interests of all of us.

-- Lois Smith, Rogue River

Dzieman listens

We are writing to express our support for Tom Dzieman. Tom has been an attorney in Medford for over 21 years. He has experience in many areas of the law, including the criminal justice system. Tom Dzieman has been both a prosecutor and a defense attorney.

He has made hard decisions in both positions, when to file charges or when to accept a plea.

In our estate planning, Tom Dzieman has taken the time to listen to our questions and concerns. He takes the time to answer our questions. He has provided us with the information we needed. He never presumed that he knew what was best for us.

We have known Tom Dzieman personally for over 15 years. We know that he is honest and hard working. He is devoted to his wife and daughter. We urge you to join us in voting for Tom Dzieman May 19.

-- Joe & Shirley Rayburn, Medford

Arnold for judge

Having served as an assistant attorney general for Oregon, as the district attorney of Jackson County and in the private practice of law in Medford for over 30 years, I learned that for our justice system to function properly it is imperative we have competent, impartial and fair- minded judges.

It is not lawyers who suffer from incompetent and partisan judges, it is their clients! In other words, the general public.

Therefore I would suggest that one should carefully consider the choice between Judge Arnold and Ron Grensky in the election for circuit judge.

I am acquainted with both gentlemen and their credentials. Based thereon, I strongly recommend Judge Arnold as the most qualified for the judgeship.

-- Thomas J. Reeder, Medford

Grensky's service

I have worked with Ron Grensky both in business and in the political arena for 10 years. Ron did a great job representing the people of southern Oregon as a state senator. He served his term. Then he stepped down, imposing his own term limit, though he could have easily been re-elected.

Judges are powerful. They make decisions that have consequences that can last a lifetime. I know Ron can do the job and serve honorably.

-- Drenon Carlyle, Medford

Wright choice

I am writing in support of Cleve Wright for county commissioner, Position 3. Through my dealings with Cleve over the past three years, I have observed that he is an extremely hard-working individual whose interests lean toward involvement in community issues and who always has the best interests of the citizens of Jackson County in mind, whether it be through his efforts to lend a helping hand to the senior citizens of this county, or through his participation in local town hall meetings.

Cleve is of the opinion that county commissioners should be held financially accountable for public funds. He also believes in listening to and representing all citizens. Cleve Wright's candidacy is endorsed by the Oregon State Police Officers Association. This is a man whose honesty and you do, make the "Wright" choice.

-- Georgia Allen, Medford

Charter serves

I am writing to encourage support of Joe Charter for county commissioner. Joe is a respected member of his profession and has been actively involved in community service in Jackson County. The voters' pamphlet indicates his participation in six community organizations, including church, social service and professional organizations in addition to service on the Medford Planning Commission.

His opponent tells us nothing about his involvement in the community. Jackson County deserves a commissioner who knows the community and has demonstrated his dedication to serving Jackson County residents. Joe Charter merits your vote.

-- Barbara Turner, Ashland

Watched both

Both Ron Grensky and Judge Phil Arnold practiced law in my court for many years before I retired in September. I also served on the court with Judge Arnold for a short time after his appointment.

After observing them in the practice of our profession there is no question in my mind that Judge Arnold is the most qualified. Contrary to his opponent, Arnold has a very even temperament, an excellent analysis of the law and a calm and informed judgment.

We are fortunate to have a person of Judge Arnold's qualifications willing to give up a practice of law and serve on the court.

Please join me and the active judges in Jackson County in voting for Judge Arnold.

-- L.L. Sawyer, Ashland

For Fahey

Mike Fahey has been devoted to improving the lives of Oregon's wage earners. He has served as executive secretary of the Pacific Coast Marine Carpenters, and is founder and director of the Carpenters Food Bank. In the Oregon House, he served on the Labor Committee. As a carpenter, he led efforts to establish the Shipwright's Apprenticeship Program. This experience taught Mike the importance of job training and continuing education for workers. As labor commissioner he intends to put this knowledge to work, designing training with high schools, community colleges, and businesses for Oregon's workers.

Mike's opponent, incumbent Jack Roberts, fought raising the minimum wage and advocates making labor commissioner a political appointment not accountable to voters. Mike believes workers should have a voice in deciding this important position.

Oregon's workers and employers deserve a committed, hard working labor commissioner.

Elect Mike Fahey commish!

-- Jacob Crabtree, Ashland

Likes Atkinson

At the ripe old age of 15, inspired by the efforts of Bob Smith, I became politically active. While in college, I served as an intern in his district office. Bob Smith is the man who inspired me to get involved.

So, you can imagine my dismay when I heard of the congressman's endorsement in the race to replace him. How could he turn his back on his own legacy by campaigning for a man so significantly to the left of himself?

Perry Atkinson is an honorable man. He is approachable and sincere. Yet despite his personable demeanor, Perry is tenaciously committed to his principles. Perry not only has the right message, but he can deliver it effectively on our behalf.

Despite my fondness for Mr. Smith, I am joining thousands of other 2nd District Republicans in exercising our renowned independence. Perry Atkinson will serve us well in Congress. I am standing with him.

-- Tim Caswell Jr., Medford

Vote for Grensky

I have been an active observer of the political letters to the editor over the last couple of months. Many of them have taken a negative tone, and I want mine to be an exception. I don't know Phil Arnold. Therefore, I have nothing negative to say about him.

On the other hand, I do know Ron Grensky. Not only has he been my close, personal friend for over a decade, but I had the privilege of running his Senate office during the latter part of his term in office. This is to say, that I know Ron personally and professionally and have nothing but the utmost respect for him on both counts.

Forget about political rhetoric and look carefully at the resume of a man who has excelled at every level: attorney, senator and now, hopefully, judge. Join me in voting for Ron Grensky on May 19.

-- Brad Hicks, Central Point

Walden colleague

It was my pleasure to serve with Greg Walden for six years in the Oregon Legislature. Greg has demonstrated his abilities as a leader and consensus builder. He is able to bring all sides of an issue to the table and work out a satisfactory resolution to an issue.

I know that Greg has the best interests of Oregonians at heart, and will work hard to represent all constituents in this district. His integrity, character, and leadership are qualities that I want to represent Oregon in Washington, D.C.

I respectfully ask Oregonians to join me on May 19 and vote for Greg Walden for Congress.

-- John Watt, Medford

Arnold best

I have worked as a lawyer in Jackson County for 15 years. I have had cases with Phil Arnold as the opposing counsel and he has been the judge on cases where I have been one of the lawyers.

As a lawyer, he advocated for his clients. As a judge, he listens carefully, is courteous to parties and attorneys and is fair and impartial in making decisions.

Phil Arnold has the support of the legal community because he has shown himself, as a lawyer and a judge, to be highly competent and qualified. He earned our respect, we did not give it to him.

We have a legal system that works best for our clients when the judge is respected by the lawyers and the lawyers respect the judge making decisions. We deserve the best person as judge and that person is Phil Arnold.

-- Colette Boehmer, Medford

Willing to serve

I've had the pleasure of knowing Ron Grensky for many years. I know that he loves Southern Oregon and wants to maintain this great quality of life we have here and protect those values which are important to each of us. I also know he is a very hard worker who will always give 150 percent to anything he works on.

He will have to give up his lucrative law practice to be a judge, but I know he's willing to take a cut in pay to serve in that position just as he did when he served in the Senate. What I don't know is why someone would criticize him for a willingness to serve us diligently. I don't think you know him. I do, and I'm voting for Ron Grensky for judge.

-- Naomi Smith, Medford

Humble husband

If Rosemary Cooley and Mylene Walden can extol the virtues of their husbands, I also can applaud the virtues of my husband, Tustin Ellison, Republican candidate for Jackson County commissioner.

Honesty? I have never heard Tustin even tell a little white lie. You can depend on what he says. His mother's words: "Tustin is good all the way through."

Obedience of laws? In 47 years of driving, one speeding ticket, at age 21.

Humility? You won't hear him bragging. Vindictive? Never.

Patriotism? Tustin fought in World War II, the only person in his squad to survive. He has often wondered just what the Good Lord had in store for him, and he doesn't yet think he has fulfilled that special obligation.

If you desire a commissioner who is honest, will obey the county charter, listen and put the people's will first, vote for Tustin Ellison.

-- Gayle Ellison, Applegate

Opinion of lawyers