The other day, I was reading the Athens Banner Herald and learned that Michael Stipe of REM had been rejected for jury duty. Stipe responded to a jury summons, thus proving that even internationally known rock stars are just local citizens when it comes to the county court system. In this case, Stipe got called for the trial of a local fellow who cornered a middle-schooler in a school bathroom and tried to molest her. Fortunately, other students heard the commotion and alerted the school counselor who thwarted the attack.
In the jury interviews, Stipe said that he did not feel that he could offer impartial judgement in the case because he had had negative experiences with stalkers. He didn't say, but I'm sure was thinking, that his impartial judgement would also be negatively influenced by the fact that he's a human being and the fellow in question is just sick. Anyway, Stipe was dismissed. The paper did not say if he sang, signed autographs or posed for pictures with fans. I would guess that he did not. I'm also guessing that this may be one of the very few times that other Clarke County residents were actually glad that they responded to their jury summons.
So, here's to Michael Stipe. Good for you for demonstrating your commitment to the democratic process and standing as a good example for everyone - in contrast to other famous people who shall remain nameless (and pantyless).
In case you're wondering, the court made quick work of the case and handed down a life sentence.
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