The Courier
News
January 8
,2014
Volume 38 ~ Number 2 News from the Heart of Idaho Camas • Lincoln • Gooding
CourierNews.webs.com
Judge Dolan Sworn in for Camas County On Friday of last week, Daniel M. Dolan was sworn in as Camas County’s fourth magistrate judge, replacing Judge Walker who has taken the magistrate position in Teton County. The magistrate position came into existence in 1971 through judicial reforms that consolidated various justice, probate, and municipal courts into the district courts. This firmly established the Idaho Supreme Court’s supervisional authority over the lower courts. In remarks leading up to the oath of office for Judge Dolan, Senior Magistrate Judge, John Varin, recounted the history of Camas County courts. Along with the normal things you might expect to see in a small town court - a couple of murders, claim jumping, and property line disputes - Camas County is noted for a number of celebrity divorces. After administrating the Oath of Office and signing the applicable documents, Judge Varin turn the podium over to the new magistrate. Having served as Camas County’s public defender for many years, Judge Dolan is no stranger to the Fairfield courtroom. He also practiced law in Blaine county for 23 years. Seven years ago, he applied for the magistrate position and has been waiting ever since to take the judge’s seat. Judge Dolan said he was excited and honored to have the opportunity to serve in Camas County. Regarding his move to Fairfield he reiterated a heart felt statement he has made several times, “I don’t have to move to Camas County; I get to move to Camas County,” Judge Dolan’s final honor of the ceremony was to have his wife help him put on the vestment of his new job - a black robe, conferring upon him the new title of “Your Honor.”
Mrs. Lari Lee Dolan helps her husband, Judge Dolan, into his new attire.
New Start For Wendell
The City of Wendell has seen a lot of challenges over the last year. Council members resigning, the election of a new mayor, major infrastructure projects, and the death of a city worker in a construction accident. On Thursday, January 2nd, Lori Swainston was sworn in as the new mayor, along with reelected council members Herb Allred and Jason Houser. The Council President, Don Dunn, was very glad to turn over the reins to Mrs. Swainston, though he will remain council president at least for the next year. Mayor Swainston said she was excited to be part of moving the City of Wendell into a new year. “We have some great projects that will help our city grow. Wendell is a great place to live, and we want to make it even better.” continued on page 2.....