I have been a court stenographer (court reporter) for the past 32 years, 14 of them as an employee of the County of Santa Barbara. I was the official court reporter on the Michael Jackson criminal trial presided over by the Honorable Rodney S. Melville in Santa Maria in 2005. I say that not to toot my own horn, but to indicate that I know what I’m talking about.
Judicial candidate Jed Beebe was an integral part of the behind-the-scenes workings of that trial and, working selflessly and tirelessly beside Judge Melville, contributed to the seamless way that trial was conducted. He also took part in the yearlong preamble that led up to the trial, researching the law with respect to the many pre-trial motions and hearings that were held.
Let’s not forget that that trial showed not only California, but the nation what extremely competent and dedicated people can do. That one small courtroom in one small town gave the judicial system a much-needed gold star in what seemed like an endless series of black eyes. Jed was a huge part of that effort. I’m proud of him, and the voters of this county should be, too.
Demonstrate your pride on Nov. 4. Vote for Jed Beebe. He’s the guy who can do the job. He’s the guy I and many other courthouse employees want. Give him to us.
This article appears in Oct 23-30, 2008.