One way to measure the success of an organization is by the dedication, enthusiasm and efforts of its members. Our Association is rightfully perceived as successful because of the positive attitude and hard work of so many of you. Several recent Bar events illustrate much about what is right with the BCBA. However, by singling them out does in no way suggest that the work of any committee is considered to be more important than another.

Hats off to Joel Berger and the members of the ADR Committee for their efforts in promoting and supporting an ADR initiative, which will affect certain types of civil cases in the District Curt. Joel, and his counterpart in The Bar Association of Baltimore City, have been working with the administrative judges of the Baltimore County and Baltimore City district courts, respectively, as well as with the Honorable Martha F. Rasin, Chief Judge of the District Court of Maryland. I was encouraged by the collaborative spirit of the BCBA and the Baltimore City Bar Association to partner with each other in dealing with this issue. My first President’s Message last July expressed a desire for such efforts in working with our fellow bar associations and to overlook geographical considerations in dealing with matters of mutual interest. It only makes sense for our respective organizations to pull on the same oar and combine our resources to promote such efforts. Last month, the ADR committees of both associations co-sponsored a breakfast meeting at the Cross Keys Inn to discuss this District Court project. Chief Judge Rasin was the featured speaker and provided us with a history of the project as well as an outline for its implementation. I thank the Honorable Michael L. McCampbell for attending the breakfast, which lent even more credibility to this innovative initiative.

I also thank and recognize the hard work of the Young Lawyers Committee for their very enjoyable and successful annual Bull Roast, which was held on March 4. Despite the threat of the so-called “storm of the Century,” hundreds of people braved the elements and attended this hallmark event. Although I was “working” that day on the entertainment (hopefully!) side of things, I could see from my on stage vantage point that everyone was having a great time. The Young Lawyers Committee planned and executed a well-run event, which included a fabulous band (couldn’t resist), clown (no, not part of the band), gaming wheels, raffle, and a silent auction with more than thirty donated items. Our charitable beneficiary, The Delrey Development Center, came through with the purchase of dozens of tickets, which helped make the event a great success. One of the highlights of the afternoon was the presentation of a plaque of appreciation to the BCBA and the Young Lawyers Committee by Mimi Wang, the Principal of Delrey. It will be proudly displayed in the Bar Office.

I thank all of you who attended the Bull Roast, bought raffle tickets, played the wheels, etc. I ask that the next time you hear or read about yet another lawyer bashing story, think of the generosity of the members of the Bar and our Benches who, without hesitation, continually give of their time and financial resources to support worthwhile causes without the expectation of recognition. This is the stuff of which we are truly made.

Switching gears now, after a formal vote, which will be held at our next Stated Meeting in June, the Honorable Alexander Wright, Jr. is expected to become the newest member of the Executive Council. Judge Wright has been an active member of the BCBA for many hears, long before becoming a judge. By way of example, in reviewing old issues of The Quarterly for an upcoming event, I noticed that Judge Wright was the Law Day Committee Vice-Chair in 1989. He has served on a number of our committees and has been a visible presence at most of our Bar functions for as long as I can remember. Although perhaps premature, I extend my congratulations to Judge Wright, who will be a welcome addition to our Executive Council.

By the time you receive the next issue of The Advocate, winder will be behind us and we will be gearing up for spring and the many Bar activities that are being planned. Please plan to attend our Law Day Breakfast and noontime ceremonies, which will occur on Tuesday, May 1. The breakfast will be held at the Holiday Inn Select in Timonium, beginning at 7:30 am. The featured speaker is Susan Reimer, a regular columnist for The Sun. Ms. Reimer writes of family matters about which many of us can relate. She has a forthright, direct, and somewhat tongue in cheek style of writing which I’m sure will translate well in her planned remarks. The Honorable Paul E. Alpert is the Law Day honoree at our noon ceremony. As most of you know, Judge Alpert has been a judge of the District Court, Circuit Court, and Court of Special Appeals. Even though he has retired, Judge Alpert continues to hear cases as a specially assigned Circuit Court judge. He has been a very supportive member of our Association. I am delighted that he will receive this honor. Please also make plans to be present at this ceremony, which, as always, will take place at the plaza of the County Courts Building, rain or shine. Bring a lunch or, better yet, plan to buy lunch there, as food will be available. Hope to see you there.