Stanley Steines for Circuit Judge

We want to start with the fact we have never been publicly political before. We've never had a political sign in our yard. We've never marched in a parade or shown any support for a political candidate before. And we've never written a letter to the editor under any circumstance. We are independent voters who vote for the best person for the job, not according to their political affiliation. But we feel enthusiatic that Attorney Stanley Steines should be the next Circuit Judge in Whiteside County.

We've known Stanley for more than 10 years. We met him through an independent group that wanted to see improvement in the parks of Morrison that had been neglected for many years. Even though Stanley was yet to be married or have a family, he was already interested in making Morrison better. He volunteered his time and his legal skills to set up charitable organizations for Friends of the Parks, April House (the child advocacy center for Whiteside County), and the Children's Art Preservation Association (CAPA). He cares for the people of Whiteside County.

Helping others and the community has always been an important part of Stanley's life. Every year he represents the Rotary in handing out scholarships to deserving high school seniors at MHS. His love of running prompted him to participate in the Torch Run for Special Olympics in Whiteside County. And he is the most dedicated father to his daughters and their needs we have ever witnessed.

Professionally he has been an Assistant State's Attorney for Whiteside County for more than 5 years as well as a private attorney for the last 17 years. His job is to prosecute some of the worst criminals in the county that have carried out felonies, misdemeanors, along with severe traffic offenses like DUI's including drug dealers and perpetrators of domestic violence. Stanley is tough on crime, keeping Whiteside County safe, and he always takes the time to sit with the victims of crimes and he listens to their stories. He's never too busy to listen. And with no prior experience as a judge he is "Recommended" by the Illinois State Bar Association for Circuit Judge.

Stanley Steines is also the civil attorney for Whiteside County entrusted with advising the County Board and all the county agencies including prosecuting violations of county ordinances, but with compassion and patience.

Among attorneys, his co-workers, and all who have had the chance to work with Stanley, he is very well liked and he is also very diplomatic, an important attribute for a judge. Stanley is smart, a good listener, and cares about other people; but is still tough on criminals. His varied background in both civil and criminal law makes him a great choice for the next Whiteside County Circuit Judge. His personality makes him an even better choice. We endorse Stanley B. Steines for the next Whiteside County Circuit Judge and please get out on November 7 and vote for him.

Phil & Barb Benson

(by Barb Benson, Guest Columnist)