Access To Democracy

One of society’s biggest problems is how to manage and improve our system of juvenile justice. Statistics overwhelmingly indicate that being able to intercede in young lives earlier is essential to society. Michael Belton has served in many capacities, from a guard to an administrator, a mentor and a teacher. He discusses with guest host Chris Crutchfield not only his life and background, but where we are falling down in our efforts in the juvenile justice system and what is needed to improve it.

Ann Bailey, President of DARTS, the Dakota County service which offers services for seniors, the elderly and the needy, who was previously a guest on our show, is interviewed by guest host Michele Engdahl. Ms. Bailey urged eligible Dakota County residents to familiarize themselves with the many services available to them, including transportation, and avail themselves of those services which will make their lives easier and more comfortable.

Prof. Richard Logan, is a retired anthropologist from the University of Wisconsin, who spent several years in the Middle East, teaching and furthering his academic skills. Logan, who is known as Doctor Safari to some, is interviewed by guest host Dane Smith about his very interesting life. Born the son of a Methodist Minister, Logan went on to become the President of Or Emet, the Minnesota Humanistic Jewish congregation. From there, he was elected President of the International Society for Humanistic Judaism.

Hon. Paul Anderson, who retired from the MN Supreme Court upon reaching the age of 70, has been both a guest and guest host on Access to Democracy program for two decades. He and Alan frequently have spirited conversations about the law. Justice Anderson is particularly concerned about the practice of the “shadow docket” employed by the US Supreme Court, and they discussed the recent Pardon decision by the MN Supreme Court, the reversal of the 3rd degree murder conviction in the Mohamed Noor case, and other relevant and controversial aspects of the law.