Vote for the justices who showed up

As an attorney for almost a quarter of a century and a past president of the DuPage County Bar Association, I know something about the judiciary. I write to publicly endorse Justices Ann Jorgensen and Mary Schostok for the Illinois Appellate Court, 2nd District.

This District covers 13 counties, including DuPage, Kane, Lake, and most of northwest Illinois. The appellate court is the "court of last resort" for most litigants, as the Illinois Supreme Court only accepts about 3 percent of the cases that are appealed to it.

I point out that both of these judges are experienced and knowledgeable. The Illinois Supreme Court unanimously appointed them to fill two vacancies on the appellate court about a year ago. Recently, both candidates submitted to an exhaustive investigation and interview process conducted by the judiciary committee of the DuPage County Bar Association. Among the factors examined were legal knowledge and ability, temperament, and diligence. Both judges were found "highly recommended."

Their two opponents were invited to interview but declined to do so. Draw your own conclusions. Please vote for Justices Schostok and Jorgensen for the appellate court.

Fred Spitzzeri

Naperville

Past president, DuPage County Bar Association