George Lewis to hold Presidential Forums

Responding to critics who suggest that his office is not listening to the people, Ho-Chunk Nation President George Lewis has scheduled a series of Presidential Forums that will allow members to learn more about the responsibilities and limitations of the Executive Branch.

Because he believes that Area meetings are held to allow legislatures to meet with their constituents on concerns and issues that affect one specific area and not on issues involving the OOP, Lewis has been reluctant to attend these meetings.  He added that the Presidential Forums would be a good opportunity for members “to ask me anything.”

Concerned that not all members understand the “Separation of Powers” as outlined in the Ho-Chunk Constitution, Lewis stated the Forums provide him with an opportunity to outline the powers and limitations of his office.

He is confident that many of the issues currently facing the Nation and its members can be clarified if the people and elected officials take the time to work together.  “I like fixing things,” Lewis stated.  Though he cautioned that on some things “there is not an immediate fix,” he is confident that by the time his two full terms expire, the Nation will be better able to address and correct both short term and long term concerns.

Presidential Forums have already been held in Chicago, Wisconsin Dells, Black River Falls, Tomah and Madison.  The next Forms are scheduled to held:

• May 24-Milwaukee Branch Office 2-6 p.m.

• May 25-St.Paul Branch Office 2-6 p.m.

• May 25-Green Bay-11 a.m.-1 p.m. Wittenberg Branch Office 3-5 p.m.

     Members are also welcome to schedule individual or group meetings with the President by calling 1-800-726-7509.