I have the experience to serve on this court

Last Thursday, the Post-Gazette editorial board endorsed candidates for Commonwealth Court ("Split Ticket," Oct. 22). In so doing, a statement was made concerning the areas of the law helpful for serving on the court. Unfortunately, an inaccuracy was stated about my professional experience. No mention was made about my 32 years of practical experience as a lawyer successfully representing individuals in workers' compensation, unemployment and consumer protection law claims, insurance regulation issues, zoning fights, land use issues and election challenges - all of which are heard by the Commonwealth Court.

Our late mayor, Bob O'Connor, appointed me to serve as a commissioner with the City of Pittsburgh Department of Planning. As a commissioner I participated in decisions on the Rivers Casino, the August Wilson Center for African American Culture and the new ice hockey arena. The experience on the planning commission in making land use decisions along with my experience in the private practice of the law encouraged me to run for Commonwealth Court.

My interest in good government runs deeply. For 28 years I have held positions with the Allegheny County and Pennsylvania Democratic Committee, including being elected the first woman chair of the city committee. Of course, politics stop at the courthouse door, and I have resigned all political positions in order to be a candidate.

As a mother of three Eagle Scouts and the wife of my high school sweetheart, Daniel Ernsberger, I will bring compassion, caring and experience to the Commonwealth Court. My endorsements include labor, veterans and progressive groups across Pennsylvania.

 

 

BARBARA BEHREND-
ERNSBERGER

Shadyside