Thursday, April 02, 2009

Augusta lawsuit filed ... residents thank Francis Chester

Francis Chester at the Highland County Maple Festival March 21. He is pictured in the Cestari Farm booth in McDowell selling wool-related products.

Churchville attorney Francis Chester followed up on his promise to file suit in Augusta Circuit Court, representing 10,466 signatories on 1,200 pages of petitions that had been circulated throughout Augusta County since the end of January.

After leaving the Courthouse, Mr. Chester heard from area folks the remainder of the day ... folks who were thanking him for filing the lawsuit, who thanked him for taking a stand "for the people," and thanked him for following through at a time when some thought it would just go away.

While in the Augusta Farm Co-Op store, one gentleman approached Mr. Chester, shook his hand, and enthusiastically thanked him on behalf of his wife, his children, and himself. He then said he would be happy to offer his help in any way if ever needed ... "even if it's just picking up rocks in the field."

Mr. Chester, ever the farmer, laughed and told him, "I just may take you up on that one!"

Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive from residents throughout Augusta County. As I have watched this man research law books, field numerous phone calls, and work with folks who stop by his office, I have been amazed at his energy and enthusiasm but, most of all, his optimism. He definitely sees the glass as half full, not half empty.

This man works six days a week in his law practice as well as oversees and works on his sheep farm, the wool mill, and retail outlet. He also does pro bono work for his church and others in the community, and helps serve mass at his church several times a week. He is dedicated and patient ... but he is no pushover.

Hours and hours and hours of time went into researching before the lawsuit was filed Wednesday. He is happy to do it and said he wants to help the people. A man of simple beginnings, Francis Chester has a heart as big as Augusta County ... and a determination to match. He made a promise to the people ... and he intends to see it through.

Photo by SWAC Girl
Lynn Mitchell
March 21, 2009

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