(Minneapolis, MN)  --  For the first time, a Native American has been appointed to the federal bench in Minnesota.  State Bar Association President Leo Brisbois  was named a U-S magistrate judge and will be chambered in Duluth.  In announcing the appointment, Chief U-S District Judge Michael Davis called Brisbois an experienced litigator with "an outstanding reputation for maintaining the highest ethical standards and a commitment to public service."  Brisbois replaces Magistrate Judge Raymond Erickson, who is retiring Friday.  Brisbois is a member of the White Earth band and was the first person of known Native American descent to head the State Bar Association.