As this newsletter is written, we are still in the beginning of September, and it is somewhat difficult to predict what will be the hot topics and issues a month from now, so relevancy is not one of the major features of this space. Your Bar Association, however, unlike its President, does not rest or vacation, and the committees have geared up with programming that is hopefully relevant, rewarding and entertaining. Please take advantage of the programming that is being provided. Whatever your areas of practice there is a lot happening out there, and networking with your peers is an excellent way to stay current and maybe pick up that referral or tidbit of knowledge about some lawyer or judge that will help you out on some legal matter.

The evolution of this association has always been of some interest pertinent to where we are today. As many of you may know, this Association started as a club with a limitation as to the number of members. Its primary concerns were over judicial appointments and the setting of fees. Even into the 1960’s the Association published booklets setting required minimum fee schedules for the members. There are numerous letters in the archives advising as to appointments to the bench and to the judiciary about its appointments.

With changing times the interests of the Association’s members have changed and so have the interests of the Association. We try to emphasize legal education, conveyance of information valuable to our members and networking opportunities so that we can be as inclusive as possible. Consequently, the value of our programs is based on the participation of our members. If the programs are of interest, we hope that you will participate. If they are not of interest, please let us know.

Someone made the remark that in many respects we are still a club, and I would like to do as much in my power as possible to open up the meetings to new members, and if it is to be a club, at least anyone can join. Any organization will ultimately take on the character and the interests of those who choose to participate, which is the old theory of input hopefully results in larger returns. I would urge your attendance at events, informational, social and hopefully a bit of both. We will do what we can to listen and respond to your comments. We have over 1,400 members now, and there is certainly a diversity of interest and viewpoints, and a few of us are even outspoken about our opinions. We enjoy a reputation as one of the finest bar associations anywhere. We have as much or more programming as any local association anywhere. Please be a part of your Association and see what we have to offer.