ABOUT ME

THE LONG STORY

I have been married to my wife, Dianne Zurisko Karaica, for 18 years.  Dianne and I were both born and raised in the Magisterial District, and we have lived in the Cheswick/Springdale area for all but 3 years of our lives.  We are committed to our community not only as active residents, but as homeowners, taxpayers, and devoted supporters of local community organizations through the donation of time and resources.  I have also had the privilege of serving on Springdale Borough Council in various capacities, most recently resigning as Council President to pursue this critical position.  Simply put, I am from the District and for the District, as a lifelong resident, proud graduate of Springdale High School, and dedicated member of the community.

Professionally, I’ve spent my career helping to power our communities with Genon Energy (formerly Duquesne Light), in addition to serving 20+ years as a Union Representative for IBEW Local 29, where I have held multiple appointed and elected positions.  These positions have not only provided me with years of training in helping workers and their families through issues at home and at work, but also valuable experience in dealing with disputes, negotiations and arbitration hearings, as well as expansive and applicable skillsets in contract/law interpretation, attentive listening and proactive problem solving. 

In the time since the primary election, I have successfully PASSED the intensive certifying course of instruction and associated exam offered by the Minor Judiciary Education Board of PA.  Given this recent certification, I am now not only eligible and fully qualified by the Commonwealth to take the seat of Magisterial District Judge on day one if elected, but I am also specifically certified in the day-to-day knowledge and duties that comprise the exact role of MDJ.  Completing this certification in Harrisburg required me to take a month away from my home, my family and my current full-time job, without any promise of being elected – but I can only hope that my decision to proactively pursue this qualification not only attests to my level of commitment, but also my competency for the position. 

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Aside from my passion for this community and my qualifications, I am a hard worker and man of character, who is humble, transparent, and takes great pride in sticking to the facts and doing the right thing, who will remain steadfast in a position of impartiality.  If elected, I will wholly dedicate myself as a full-time Magisterial District Judge and an impartial servant to the community, with continuity of the current staff and evening hours for accessibility. 

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I hope to have the pleasure of meeting you at your doorstep while I continue to walk neighborhoods this Fall, and I would be so appreciative of your consideration when casting your ballot for Magisterial District Judge on November 7th.  COUNT ON KARAICA for authentic COMMITMENT to our community, QUALIFICATIONS specific to the role, and CHARACTER to ensure due process and uphold the integrity of the office.