2/2/2010
TIM UNRUH
Petri Hawkins Byrd sees no difference between Judy Sheindlin, a former family court judge in New York, and “Judge Judy” on reality television.
They’re the same person.
“When she’s on the bench, that’s all Judy,” Byrd said.
He should know, having seen both sides of the opinionated judge, serving as her bailiff in regular court and television court.
“There’s a tough-mindedness, a fairness, that permeates her entire being,” Byrd said.
As for him, Byrd said he’s different as a bailiff on TV.
“I’m a little more quiet and reserved on ‘Judge Judy’ than I am in person,” said Byrd, 52, of Sacramento, Calif.
The real Petri Byrd is a singer and songwriter, and a community activist.
Folks in Salina have a chance to meet the real person Saturday night. Byrd is the keynote speaker for the Salina NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet at the Salina Bicentennial Center. A reception, with an opportunity for autographs and pictures, is 4:30 to 6:15 p.m. The buffet dinner and program begins at 6:30.
Tickets are $35 each. For reservations, call Cora Williams, 827-6955, or Earle Bess, Jr., 820-8399. Tickets are also available at the door.


Read the rest of this story in Wednesday's Salina Journal.