By
ART PETERSON
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George Bridges of Waukegan was sworn in Monday as a circuit judge, the first African-American selected for that post in Lake County's 167-year history.
Illinois Supreme Court Chief Justice Robert Thomas administered the oath of justice, with Bridges' wife, Sharanne, holding the Bible. The ceremony drew a crowd that filled two courtrooms, with those next door watching on a large television screen and joining in applause.
Bridges' 11 years as associate judge and prior work as Waukegan police chief and an assistant state's attorney, plus extensive community involvement, as well as his character, hard work and principles, drew praise from a host of community leaders.
The great-great-great grandson of a slave, Bridges said, "I am truly blessed. I came from a gang-infested community in Chicago. I had the prayers of my mother and father, and I had God surrounding me."
Becoming a circuit judge is "humbling," Bridges said. "But for the grace of God, and support of family and friends, I could be standing in front of a judge instead of being one."
Closing the program was the Rev. Walstone E. Francis, pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church in Waukegan, who thanked God "for this historic, momentous, tremendous day. We will remember 12/18 for the great act of justice you have done in Lake County."
State's Attorney Michael Waller said the county judiciary "has made progress" from days when it was a bunch "of old white guys," but "still has a long way to go. Diversity in the judiciary should reflect society as a whole."
