Gratiot County Herald

Dear Editor,

Judge Michelle Rick has served on the 29th Circuit Court since August 2007, when she was appointed by the Governor’s office to succeed Hon. Jeffrey L. Martlew. During this time she has served the people of Clinton and Gratiot Counties with fairness, expertise, and personal attention, facilitating a smooth transition from Judge Martlew’s 14 years on the Circuit Court bench. In addition to her traditional responsibilities, she has organized many projects to provide first-hand experience to local youth learning about Michigan’s judicial system. Her hard work and measured but tough policies on the bench have earned her the support of both Clinton and Gratiot County Prosecutors, members of their staff, the Clinton and Gratiot Sheriffs, as well as numerous local practicing attorneys.

Pursuant to Michigan law, Judge Rick was required to run for election in November 2008 in the first general election after her appointment, successfully earning her the right to serve out the remainder of Judge Martlew’s original term. That term expires at the end of 2010, meaning she will again be on the ballot this November and will be in need of your continued support.

We are hopeful that Judge Rick will again find herself unopposed in this year’s election, but cannot take this for granted. As members of her re-election committee, we are dedicated to ensuring that Judge Rick retains her seat so our respective counties will continue to be well served for years to come. We are, however, equally mindful of the economic challenges currently faced by many individuals and families in our communities. For this reason, we have decided to hold off on formal fundraising unless Judge Rick finds herself in a contested election. If an opponent should materialize prior to the April 27 filing deadline, we already have plans in place to immediately begin a formal campaign with events, appearances, and fundraisers, and will be asking you to join in those efforts.

We thank you for your support of Judge Michelle Rick’s 2010 judicial campaign. Regardless of whether the election is contested, Judge Rick will continue her regular participation in area events that has become an important part of her connection with the local communities in Gratiot and Clinton counties. If you have any questions or comments, we invite you to contact any of Judge Rick’s campaign committee members in person. We look forward to hearing from you and to a successful election in November.

Sincerely,

Frederick Gibbs, Shelly Beyer, Brian Madar, Erika Anderson, Steve Gobbo, Robert Andretz, Christopher Goggin, Charles Fortino, Kristin Bakker, Laura Benitez, Todd Selin