Stone for Judge

The prospect of a new Superior Court judge coming from Burke County is a welcome one indeed. As one of the three counties in the Augusta Judicial Circuit, Burke has a long history of being under-represented on the court's bench.

As pointed out in this issue of The True Citizen, it has been more than 60 years since a judge from this county was elected to the office. Many here still remember the long and distinguished service of Judge G. C. Anderson. Governor Zell Miller made an effort to give the county representation when he appointed Bettieanne Childers Hart to the court. But, she was not able to withstand the onslaught from voters in Richmond and Columbia counties when she stood for election.

It would be difficult for any local candidate facing opposition from one of the two larger counties in the circuit, but we believe Jesse Stone is up to the challenge. With both a distinguished 26-year career as a practicing attorney and public service experience as Mayor of Waynesboro, we believe Stone is an outstanding candidate for the appointment.

He comes from a family with a long history of public service. His father and grandfather preceded him in the mayor's office. His intellect and temperament would serve him well as a Superior Court judge, and we hope the community will get behind the effort to secure his appointment by Governor Sonny Perdue.

There are several highly qualified candidates in the running. We just happen to think our mayor is the best choice.