Coffee & Conversation Forum This Saturday!

11/14/2006

COFFEE AND CONVERSATION FORUM THIS SATURDAY! 

The topic of this month’s Coffee and Conversation Forum is:

DO JUDGES AND POLITICS MIX? THE CHANGING MINNESOTA LANDSCAPE

WHEN: Saturday, November 18, 2006, 8 - 10 a.m.

WHERE: Heintz Center, HB117 (Use the H Entrance Door)
Rochester, Minnesota

Minnesota’s rules for conducting judicial races have been struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court. Previously, judicial candidates could not speak about controversial issues, attend political gatherings, or actively raise campaign funds.  Mr. Greg Wersal, a Minnesota attorney, took his concerns all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court and won.  He states that there will now be greater accountability to the voters and allow first-time judges to be elected rather than appointed.  Many members of the judiciary and the state bar are concerned about the potential of these changes for changing the impartiality of and politicizing the judiciary. 

What are the pros and cons of changing judicial elections?  What will be the impacts on the Minnesota judiciary? Are there alternatives that could be considered?  Will the Legislature consider this issue next year?  Former Governor Quie is heading up a Commission that is expected to make some recommendations to the Legislature and the Judiciary in early December.

PANEL:

We will start the session with a panel presentation. Panel members:  Golden Valley attorney Greg Wersal, former Chief Justice Sandy Keith, and retired District Court Judge, Andy Morse, will share their perspectives on this issue. They represent different points of view about the topic and we expect to have a lively discussion.

COFFEE AND CONVERSATION:

Following the panel presentation, there will be an opportunity to further discuss the issue in small groups. 
Enjoy a cup of Dunn Bros coffee and talk to your neighbors about the issue.  Elected officials are invited to attend to listen to your views on this timely and important topic.

Audience

This forum is free and open to the public.  This is an opportunity to be part of the democratic process and share views on issues facing our state and community.

Co-Sponsors

This community issues forum is sponsored by a partnership of community groups to promote citizen dialogue and engagement. 

Rochester Community Education
League of Women Voters of Rochester
RNeighbors
Rochester Area Council PTSA
Rochester Area Foundation
Rochester Community & Technical College
University of Minnesota Rochester
Winona State University Rochester

For more information please contact Michon D. Rogers at (507) 287-7141 or .