Letter to the editor: Zellers for district judge

Time for change in the Valley! Better options cannot be overlooked when opportunity arises. Leslie Uncapher Zellers is that better option for magisterial district judge.

When she served the citizens of Westmoreland County as a prosecuting attorney with the district attorney’s office, we prosecuted many cases together. I came to respect her as very smart and reasonable; her no-nonsense approach made prosecution smooth and fair. She became my “go-to” assistant district attorney for advice, regardless of the crime.

A proud, third-generation attorney in the same firm her grandfather opened nearly 100 years ago, she’s helped countless families navigate family/orphans’ court, criminal and civil court through likely the most difficult times in their lives. Family court judges have confidence to regularly appoint her to represent the best interests of children.

Her passion for community service is most admirable. Helping others, her staple in life. Her work with kids as Kiski Area High School mock trial coach is unparalleled, as well as volunteering and pro bono work for police and veterans. The Officer Brian Shaw Memorial Scholarship Fund and the Fallen Officer Food Drives she founded are very close to my heart.

With 25-plus years as a trooper in the Valley, I know what it takes to be a good magisterial district judge: service, dedication, compassion, intelligence, fairness and common sense. Leslie Uncapher Zellers is the whole package. Being your magisterial district judge is one more way she will serve the community. Make the best choice on May 16!

Dale Gabriel

Salem

The writer is retired from the Kiski Valley Pennsylvania State Police.