First Monday in October

It's the start of a new Supreme Court term, the Roberts Court.

Abortion regulations concerning partial birth abortions, and race-based public school enrollment plans are among major national issues facing them.

Also on the docket, a case examining the scope of government regulation to fight global warming, and whether large punitive damage awards violate the Constitution's due process requirements.

Will it be the last term for Justice Stevens?

At 86, he is the oldest member of the Court and leader of the fiberals.

This fall's elections will have a say in who the next appointee will be.

Justice Kennedy moves into the swing seat, vacated by Sandra Day O'Connor.

The conservative side is anchored by Justices Scalia and Thomas.

I'm hoping President Bush's additions of Roberts and Alito will strongly side with them.

Time and the cases will tell.