Kankakee Valley Post, Volume 14, Number 21, DeMotte, Jasper County, 7 April 1944 — WILLIAM A. SOMERS SEEKS JUDGE POST [ARTICLE]

WILLIAM A. SOMERS SEEKS JUDGE POST

Attorney William A. Somers of Rensselaer Wednesday filed a declaration of candidacy with the state secretary’s office for the Republican nomination for the office of Judge of Jasper Circuit court, subject to the decision of the voters at the Primary election to be held Tuesday, May 2. Attorney Somers was born in Remington, February 24, 1905, # the son of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Somers who now live in Monon. He came to Rensselaer during his fifth grade year and was graduated from the local high school in 1923. Following that he studied at Purdue University, University of California, and Columbia University’s School Of Law in New York City. He received the LL.B. degree from the latter institution in 1936. Immediately following receipt of his legal degree he came here and established a law practice in the offices of Halleck and Halleck. Since 1936, with the exception of the May 1, 1941, April, 1942 period when he was in the armed service he has been in continuous practice here. During the 19231936 period aside from his schooling in law he held an important position in Washington, D.C., and during vacation periods from time to time was engaged as a newspaper reporter. lie is married. Mrs. Somers is the former Miss Lucile Iliff, daughter of the late George Iliff of this community. In 1943 he was elected Adjutant of the local American Legion post, from which position he resigned W ednesday in compliance with Post rules that an officer or candidate for office shall not hold an executive post in the organization. He is the Rensselaer Civilian Defense chairman, of the current Red Cross fund campaign, chairman of the Rensselaer War Finance committee and city chairman. He also serves as Rensselaer city attorney. Attorney Somers in announcing his candidacy said he feels his experience and background qualify him for the office and that if he is elected he will conduct the duties of the office impartially. He asks your consideration when you go to the polls May 2.