Patricia Brown is a smart lady, and she’s a mother, too, so, of course, Happy Mother’s Day to Mrs. Brown.
We know she’s intelligent because of the guidance she’s offered her daughter, Janine, one of four magistrates in Ohio County who, in fact, is a mother herself. So, yes, Happy Mother’s Day to Janine, as well.
Now, no one is talking about the usual guidance “stuff” that mothers and daughters discuss. Nothing about boyfriends – or husbands named Joe – and not necessarily about children, either. Those conversations took place, sure, but it was during one of those life-advice consults when Momma Brown taught Janine to be sure to love wholly, to never give up, and to fight with grace when combat is the only option.
So, that’s exactly what Varner did when an anonymous coward filed a complaint against her with the state Judicial Investigations Commission in September 2019 because the New Jersey native was graduated from a vocational institution rather than a regular high school. The JIC admonished her, and Varner resigned, but there was a window-to-make-it-right chance during which she had to pass the Mountain State’s equivalent to the common GED test.
So, Varner refused to surrender and she fought as-politely-as-possible for the magistrate’s position because of how much she loved the job, her family, and her community, just like her mother taught her daughter to do.
So, Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers, and a particular thank you goes out to Momma Brown for raising a daughter who now is spreading a special kind of goodness to those who need it most.
Who is your favorite comic book character of all time?
Honestly, I’ve never really been into comic books. If I had to choose a favorite superhero, I guess Batman, and Wonder Woman.
What is the biggest difference between your hometown in New Jersey and the Upper Ohio Valley?
I love New Jersey, my hometown of Point Pleasant. I was blessed with an amazing childhood growing up playing on and working at beaches and boardwalks along the Jersey Shore. The Upper Ohio Valley has been very kind to us, my family, for 31 years now. I believe there are so many things to do for so little money here.
The difference is the people.
The community vibe is so strong here, it really is. This is such a small town really, and whether it be folks that I’ve met through our children or jobs that I’ve had, I can proudly say I have special bonds that still hold true today with so many. I love that so much. I could drive around New Jersey for hours without seeing a familiar face, but here, I drive around with one hand on the wheel, one hand waving to people. It’s awesome.
What advice have you offered the most as a magistrate?
Magistrates have to abide by many canons according to the rules of judicial conduct so we are very limited in what we can say. Sadly, we see a lot of drug charges.
I often tell folks during their first appearance if in front of me, that they are better than what they are dealing with, that they deserve a happy and sober life and just wish them luck. It is not often, but it does occasionally happen where we do see a very happy ending, and I always think that deserves a hug. I have been out and about somewhere with someone coming up to me and thanking me and updating me on their progress and lives … that’s always way cool and makes my heart smile.
This position I hold now is at times the most stressful yet rewarding (if that makes sense) I’ve ever had in my life.
What song from the 1980s do you love the most and why?
Oh, I’m my opinion I believe the 80s was the best decade and I absolutely love love, love music. Oh my gosh, there are so many great songs. It is so hard to choose just one.
I would have to say the soundtracks of my youth, the songs that can throw me back, make me smile, and bring me to good reminiscing tears would be anything by Bruce Springsteen, Bon Jovi & throw in some Van Halen/Hagar, too (giggling).
What is the biggest lesson you have learned from your Mother?
Oh, my goodness, there are so many, she is just an amazing, beautiful inside and out woman.
My mom will be turning 80 years young in June. My mom has an amazing outlook on life and very strong faith. She has taught us to always, always be kind, to do what’s right, to accept flaws, to always look for silver linings, to always look for and believe in signs, to work hard and prove ourselves, to take of others including taking care of ourselves, to see three sides of a story, to love wholly, to never give up, to fight with grace.
Just to name a few lol I always get choked up and am so grateful when I am told I resemble her … it is an amazing compliment.
We are miles apart, phone calls and Facebook messages away, but always, always connected by our hearts … I love my Mom so much.
