Maryland Court of Appeals Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera visited the District Court of Maryland locations in Catonsville and Essex on September 17. The visit was hosted by Judge Alexandra N. Williams, Administrative Judge for District Eight (Baltimore County).
Judge Barbera's tour of the Towson court location earlier this year is part of her ongoing efforts to familiarize herself with each court facility since being appointed by Governor Martin O'Malley in July 2013.
"It was such a privilege to welcome Chief Judge Barbera today," said Judge Williams. "These locations are busy and relatively large, and our judges and their staff work very hard to serve the people in our community. It was wonderful to be able to introduce the chief judge to these dedicated professionals and have their hard work recognized by the leader of the state’s judicial branch. Chief Judge Barbera made sure to talk with each person individually. She was genuinely warm and interested in knowing what each person’s role was. This visit was a tremendous morale booster for all our employees, and a reminder of why we all do what we do."
The chief judge began her day at the Catonsville court before moving on to Essex in the afternoon. Administrative Clerk Mike Esposito noted that she visited every area of the courts, from holding facilities to judges’ chambers. "Chief Judge Barbera wanted to see what people do and what resources they need to do their jobs better. She was very down-to-earth and introduced herself to everyone," Esposito said. "How she interacts with people is tremendous. It is obvious that she cares about them and how they do their jobs."
During her visit, Chief Judge Barbera met with several judges including Marsha L. Russell, Kimberly M. Thomas, Steven D. Wyman in Catonsville; Stacy A. Mayer, Norman R. Stone III; and observed proceedings before Michael T. Pate in Essex.
"Each person I met today is a vital part of our Judiciary, and I welcomed the opportunity to meet and thank them personally for their service," Chief Judge Barbera stated. "I was pleased to be able to thank Judge Williams in person for her excellent leadership. These judges and talented court professionals in Baltimore County are wonderful representatives of Maryland’s court system. I have learned a lot today."