Dawn Bartholomew, longtime resident of the West End, has announced her candidacy for Magisterial District Judge for Ross, Polk, Hamilton and Eldred Townships.

"We need a District Judge that is invested in keeping our community safe and preserving the family values which make our community such a great place to live," stated Bartholomew.After years of community involvement and volunteer leadership, Bartholomew is committed to the residents of the district and views the judgeship as an opportunity to affect a positive influence in the community and in peoples' lives. Bartholomew believes that it is important to be a true public servant, not just a dispenser of justice. She plans on making herself available to the residents of the district at all times, as she believes this position is much more than a full-time job, but one that requires a 24/7 obligation.Bartholomew will appear on the ballot for the May 17 primary election on both the Republican and Democratic tickets. Grace Marks is serving as the Bipartisan Committee Chairperson.Grace Marks, Bartholomew's Committee Chair, added, "We deserve to have someone that loves our community, that can be firm, fair, understanding and compassionate, yet absolutely knows where to draw the line. We need a full-time Magistrate who is responsive to the people in their district. A District Judge who will listen to the people and give them their 'day in court.' Someone who knows that the court needs to be, for lack of a better term, user and people friendly. It means so much to all of us in the district."Bartholomew is a former small business owner and store manager who has raised many children with her husband Steve, some are adopted and foster children. Her experience includes assisting attorney Michael Corcoran with family and criminal court cases and serving on the Joint State Government Advisory Committee on services to Children and Youth appointed by Representative Craig Dally. She has also been certified by the Supreme Court in 2005 by attending and completing the required educational instruction held by the Minor Judiciary Board in Harrisburg.Her community activities include volunteering with the Pleasant Valley High School Chem. Free Graduation Party Committee, Girl Scout Leader, Operation Touch of Home (military support group), Polk Twp. and Blue Ridge Hook & Ladder Fire Company Ladies Auxiliaries.Bartholomew's website is

www.dawn4dm.com and the campaign can be reached by calling 610-381-2126 or by emailing her through her website. Facebook key words: Elect Dawn Snyder Bartholomew