To the Editor-

We are fortunate to live in a county in which so many qualified individuals seek public office.

I especially feel, from my past court experience as a social worker and my personal observations, that
Trish Baker is the most qualified to fill the office of circuit court judge. Not only does she have
extensive experience in court, including both family court and criminal proceedings, but she truly
takes the time to be part of the community.

Trish was elected to the Park Ridge Village Board to replace my husband Elmer. She also serves on the school board as did he, coming on to the board at a time of much turmoil. Other organizations in which she is active include Rotary, Community Foundation, Mid-State Independent Living Consultants, Woman’s Club and the United Way.

Her present occupation is that of the clerk of courts. It has been since her taking this office that she has
finalized the conversion of all court records to the state, CCAP system. Obviously though, if she is
elected as judge she will need to resign from other elected positions.

The importance of her varied participation in community events however is that she has come to have a true understanding of our county residents and programs. I do not believe that the other candidates for the judicial position have as much experience working with and being a part of the community as has Trish.

When I worked with her on family court matters in my 30 years with Portage County, Trish exhibited
the most creativity of all attorneys in making recommendations to help family members and in
particular in protecting the rights of the children. She cares about all people she works for and with
and will continue to do so if elected judge.

I believe Trish will look to protect the public as well as provide restorative justice for victims and defendants.

Charmian Fournier
Stevens Point