Forums on draft slated

Ecumenical Christian Ministries at Kansas University this month will present two forums on the military draft.

The events were designed in response to a currently stagnant piece of federal legislation introduced in 2003 that would make some form of military or civilian service mandatory for Americans.

The first forum, titled “Military Draft or Universal Conscription: Pro vs. Con,” will feature discussion by KU political science professor Philip Schrodt and two military veterans. It will be at 7:30 p.m. Sunday at Plymouth Congregational Church, 925 Vt.

Schrodt will also take part in the second forum, “Conscientious Objection: Reality vs. Rumor,” and will be joined by KU public administration professor Charles Epp. The second forum will be at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24 at the ECM building, 1204 Oread Ave.

The events are free and open to the public.

Crime

Closing arguments set in statutory rape case

Jurors will hear closing arguments Tuesday in the case of a 36-year-old Lawrence man charged with having sex with his children’s 13-year-old baby sitter.

The trial in Douglas County District Court so far has lasted five days. Friday afternoon, both the prosecution and defense had finished presenting their cases and were preparing to make closing arguments.

The courts will be closed Monday for Columbus Day.

The man is charged with having physically unforced sex with the girl in spring of this year. Sex with a child under 14, regardless of consent, is classified as rape under Kansas law.