Judge Stella Tsai, who is a candidate for Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court, speaks to attendees of the Clinton County Democrats summer picnic in Riverview Park. PHOTO PROVIDED

PHOTO PROVIDED
Judge Stella Tsai, who is a candidate for Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court, speaks at the Clinton County Democrats summer picnic in Riverview Park.

LOCKPORT — The Clinton County Democratic Committee hosted its summer picnic on Friday, July 18, at Riverview Park, bringing together Democrats from across the county for an evening of conversation, civic engagement and community building.

Attendees had the opportunity to enjoy good food and great conversation all while hearing from one of Pennsylvania’s leading judicial candidates.

Judge Stella Tsai, currently serving on the Court of Common Pleas and a candidate for Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court, was the featured speaker. She is highly recommended by the Pennsylvania Bar Association.

Judge Tsai emphasized the importance of a fair and impartial judiciary.

“As a member of the Commonwealth Court, I will work tirelessly to deliver justice without fear or favor. The courts should be accessible to all, and not political,” she stated.

Born in the United States to immigrants from Taiwan, Judge Tsai shared how her parents’ experiences under martial law in 1960s Taiwan shaped her commitment to justice. She discussed her motivations for becoming a lawyer and later a judge, underscoring her belief in equal access to fair and unbiased courts.

Judge Tsai also voiced her support for Judge Brandon Neuman, candidate for Pennsylvania Superior Court and the only candidate in his race also highly recommended by the PA Bar Association, and highlighted the importance of voting “YES” on the retention of five statewide appellate judges this November.

Additional speakers reinforced the importance of judicial retention for Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justices David Wecht, Christine Donohue and Kevin Dougherty; Superior Court Judge Alice Beck Dubow and Commonwealth Court Judge Michael Wojcik. They stressed the need to keep Pennsylvania’s appellate courts non-partisan so that every citizen — regardless of political affiliation, economic background or geographic region — can expect sound, objective and constitutional rulings.

Barb Masorti addressed the group to explain why she is running for reelection to Lock Haven City Council, addressing some of the major issues facing the city.

Chair Bre Brannan read a statement from Megan Houser, candidate for Keystone Central School Board, expressing her request for support. Megan was unable to attend the picnic but is enthusiastic about becoming a member of the school board to support our students.

Brannan also promoted the “Dems Get Things Done” monthly campaign in support of a local non-profit. July’s campaign is in support of providing hydration through donations to the Dunnstown Fire Station. She also recognized Roxanne Embick for her work in support of the Contest Every Race grant.

The Clinton County event was one of nine stops across a three-day weekend tour that also included events in Centre, Clearfield, Elk, McKean, Warren, Cameron, Potter and Tioga counties.

For more information about the Clinton County Democratic Committee, email clintoncountypademocrats@gmail.com.