taught me that helping others with their struggles is what makes all of us better . Some might even say it is the Lord ’ s work !
6 . Family is Everything ! Having a good one is the foundation for all things positive in life . If you were not born into a good one , the good news is you can still make one . Drug court taught me family does not have to mean by blood . In fact , getting away from blood family can sometimes improve your chances . A drug court participant once told me that “ family ” means anyone who loves you and that you love back . It can be a teacher , a co-worker , a pastor , a friend , and yes , even a drug court team . Create a family that loves you !
7 . It ’ s Who is on Your Team ! As a drug court judge , I was only as good as the team around me . Drug court taught me to surrounded myself with people who were passionate about improving lives . People who were patient and willing to work tirelessly , carrying more of the load when necessary . People who wanted to be part of something and understood how important relationships could be . It was the strength of the team that allowed us to show people they were worth more than their situation . It created the buy-in needed for improvement and recovery .
I want to thank Judge Bruce Romanick and Judge Gail Hagerty for allowing me a chance to find my passion for drug court . They allowed me on to their teams and encouraged me along the way . I also want to thank Judge Pamela Nesvig who took over the South Central Juvenile Drug Court and embodies all of the lessons above . In my new role as North Dakota ’ s first Judicial Outreach Liaison , my drug court work will continue , just in a different way . I will be working with all of the trial court judges , looking to improve process and outcomes with regard to impaired driving cases . Much like Kevin Bacon ’ s seven degrees of separation , you would be surprised what can be connected to impaired driving and making the roads safer for all of us . If you have an idea , don ’ t hesitate to reach out . Peace on your hearts !
Matthew J . Bunkers , Ph . D . | 605.390.7243
Certified Consulting Meteorologist ( CCM ) What does a CCM do ? Check out : https :// npweather . com / forms / CCM-article . pdf
• 27 + years of weather / forecasting experience
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• Specialties : forensic meteorology , weather & forecasting , radar , satellite , severe storms , rainfall & flooding , fog , winter weather , fire weather , applied climate & meteorology , ag weather , education & training , and technical editing
https :// npweather . com | nrnplnsweather @ gmail . com
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