Endorsement: Wade Padgett, Chief Magistrate

Editor:

I support Wade Padgett for the chief magistrate judge in Columbia County. There are the obvious reasons and then there are the reasons that many who do not know Wade need to know. First, the most obvious, Wade Padgett has been the assistant chief magistrate judge for the last ten years. He reported directly to David Huguenin who is retiring. Wade's experience for the last 10 years has no doubt prepared him for this next step. We all know what an excellent teacher experience is and the wisdom we gain by it. Wade has that wisdom.

On a professional level, in the past, I worked as a claims adjuster. Wade's reputation was impeccable. He did what was right for his clients, but he did it respectfully and in fairness. I never heard the legitimacy of one of his claims questioned by my peers, nor was his integrity ever questioned.

I am also a neighbor of Wade's. I have seen him as an attorney, husband, father, son-in-law, neighbor, coach and friend, and he is consistent. I have never seen him out of character. Based on what I know, if you have ever met Wade, then met have met the real Wade Padgett.

Too, it should be noted that Wade has been a football and basketball coach, he is involved in his church, and is involved in other organizations in our community. He has done this long before ever running for the chief magistrate judgship. Based on what he has already contributed to our community, it is obvious he has our community's best interest at heart.

Finally, the wise King Solomon said, "a good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold." Wade has both a good name and loving favor. That is why on July 20, when it comes time to vote for chief magistrate judge, I will vote for the man who has experience, wisdom, integrity and has shown by his actions, his love for this community.

Dwayne Hooven

Evans