Ohio Supreme Court Justice Judith French was the featured speaker recently at the regular meeting of the Darke County Republican Women's Club (DCRWC). French was appointed as the 155th Ohio Supreme Court justice by Governor John Kasich on December 20, 2012. She was appointed to begin serving the unexpired term of Justice Evelyn Stratton and began serving Ohio on January 1, 2013.

French spoke about some of the experiences during the appointment process and said this is a great time for women in the legal/court system, particularly with this being the first time the Chief Justice of Ohio has been a woman.

"The beauty of the building literally brought tears to my eyes, the first day I entered." explained French. She said that information is provided regarding the court, the judicial system, and the education center on the web at http://www.courtnewsohio.gov/ Proceedings of recent cases of interest are archived there. Additionally, the court proceedings may be watched on line live on the Ohio Channel.

French detailed the procedure followed by the court from receipt of a case through issuing their final decision. There are over 1,000 cases submitted annually and they issue 100-120 opinions a year, with 30-50% being criminal. The cases they decide to hear are "of great public interest" with cases being prioritized by those involving decisions that conflict between other Ohio courts.

French took numerous questions from the audience following her presentation.

DCRWC will hold its next regularly scheduled meeting at 6:30 p.m. on May 13 at the St. Clair Mansion.  The program will feature Ohio Federation of Republican Women's Club President Jean Turner and some VERY special surprise entertainment.

Dinner is available by prior reservation, at a cost of $8.00 per person ($ .50 of which goes to the Caring for America Project, "Honor Flight". Anyone wishing to join the group at 6:30 p.m. for dinner, may place reservations by calling or emailing Wavelene Denniston before noon on May 9. Reservations placed are expected to be paid. Wavelene's phone is (937) 547-6477 or she may be emailed at: DCRWReservations@darkegop.org. 

As this will be a special meeting, all attendees are expected to dine with the group.

The club is currently on a membership drive and welcomes new members interested in the Darke County community and promoting Republican leadership. Additional information may be obtained by phoning President Sally Zeiter at (937) 423-2391 or she may be emailed at: DCRWPresident@darkegop.org.