Miami Lighthouse Blind Babies Holiday Toy Drive

On Sunday, December 4, the Miami Lighthouse for the Blind will host a great event at the Learning Express Toy Store in Pinecrest (9529 South Dixie Highway) featuring the very popular, Ziggy the Clown! Please bring your kids to enjoy Ziggy the Clown while you shop for your holiday gifts and get 10% off your purchases from 11:30am - 1:00pm. The Learning Express will generously donate 10% of all purchases to Miami Lighthouse's Blind Babies program.

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6 Associates Join Holland & Knight in South Florida

MIAMI – November 29, 2011 – Holland & Knight is pleased to announce that six new associates have joined the firm's South Florida offices.

Melanie M. Fernandez, based in Miami, is part of the firm's Litigation Section. She received her B.B.A degree in International Business at Florida International University in 2008 and her J.D. degree from the University of Miami School of Law in 2011.

Shanna N. Ford, based in Miami, has joined the firm's Business Law Section and focuses on international and cross-border transactions. She received her B.S. degree in Biochemistry at the University of the West Indies in 2000 and her J.D. degree from the University of Miami School of Law in 2011.

Kevin M. Hall, based in Fort Lauderdale, has joined the firm's Business Law Section and focuses on international and cross-border transactions. He received both his B.S. degree in Business Administration in 2007 and his M.S. degree in Accountancy in 2008 at Wake Forest University and his J.D. degree from the University of Florida Levin College of Law in 2011.

Nicole M. Maron, based in Fort Lauderdale, has joined the firm's Business Law section and focuses on public companies and securities law. She received her B.S. degree in Psychology from the University of Florida in 2007 and her J.D. degree from Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad Law Center in 2011.

Dustin M. Robinson, based in Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, is part of the firm's Litigation Section. He received both his B.S. and M.S. degrees in Accounting in 2008 at the University of Florida and his J.D. degree from the University of Florida Levin College of Law in 2011.

Jonathan D. Stratton, based in Miami, has joined the firm's Litigation Section. He received his B.B.A degree in Economics and Legal Studies from the University of Miami in 2008 and his J.D. degree from the University of Chicago Law School in 2011.

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Steven Ellison Honored by Arthur I. Meyer Jewish Academy

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.; November 29, 2011 — Broad and Cassel is pleased to announce that Steven Ellison was honored by the Arthur I. Meyer Jewish Academy for his years of service, support and dedication to the Academy and the overall Jewish community in the Palm Beach area. Mr. Ellison is a partner in the West Palm Beach office of Broad and Cassel and is a member of the Commercial Litigation and Special Assets Practice Groups, and devotes a substantial portion of his practice to Consumer Financial Services Litigation.

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Patricia Lebow Named a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.; November 29, 2011 — Patricia Lebow, managing partner of the West Palm Beach office of the Florida-based law firm Broad and Cassel, was recently elected to The Fellows of the American Bar Foundation in recognition of her outstanding dedication to the welfare of the community, the traditions of the profession and the advancement of the objectives of The American Bar Association. 

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Joshua Brown Receives Board Certified in Intellectual Property Law by Florida Bar

ORLANDO – Joshua Brown, an associate at Rumberger, Kirk & Caldwell, has been recognized by the Florida Bar as an expert in intellectual property law. A Registered Patent Attorney, Brown represents national and international clients in patent, copyright, trademark, and trade secret litigation and has prosecuted patents and trademarks before the United States Patent and Trademark Office. By earning his Board Certification in Intellectual Property, he has proven a level of expertise limited to fewer than 130 attorneys practicing in Florida.

Brown currently serves as Chairperson of the Intellectual Property Law Committee of the Orange County Bar Association. He earned his doctorate of jurisprudence, graduating second in his class from the University of Florida Levin College of Law in 2004.

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Michael J. Ringelheim Joins Carlton Fields

Miami, Fla. – November 29, 2011 – Carlton Fields is pleased to announce that Michael J. Ringelheim joined the firm’s Miami office as an associate and practices in the firm’s Corporate, Securities & Tax practice group.

Ringelheim was a 2010 Carlton Fields summer associate working in the firm’s Miami office. He passed The Florida Bar exam in September 2011. Prior to work at Carlton Fields, he served as a legal intern at the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office and as a legal intern for the Honorable Judge Dorothy Eisenberg in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District of New York.

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Educate Tomorrow will hold its I Love the 80’s Gala January 14, 2012

Educate Tomorrow will hold its I Love the 80’s Gala on January 14, 2012 at a gorgeous Private Bay Front Estate located at 17575 Old Cutler Road from 7pm – 12 am. VIP Rooftop Reception from 6pm-7pm.

Join Mistress of Ceremonies Jackie Nespral, Emmy Award Winning Anchor NBC Miami News, and your friends and colleagues for a wonderful evening of fun for a great cause. Enjoy an extraordinary selection of wines and liquor, delicious food from Miami’s hottest restaurants, raffle prizes, including a Bahamas Cruise for Two, a silent auction featuring an amazing selection of items including jewelry, exceptional works of art, cruises, vacation getaways, fine wines, sporting goods, and gift certificates, prizes for the best 80’s costumes, and 80’s Tunes from The Click! Educate Tomorrow’s missions is to create independence for disadvantaged and foster youth through education, mentoring and life skills training. 

Regular Tickets: $150. VIP Tickets: $250. 

For sponsorships:

Please contact Educate Tomorrow’s Executive Director Shawn Joost at 305/374-3751 or joost@educatetomorrow.org . 

To purchase tickets please visit http://www.educatetomorrow.org or contact Shawn Joost.

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Christopher Cavallo and Christopher Horton Join Broad and Cassel

Horton

Cavallo

SOUTH FLORIDA, Fla.; November 28, 2011 — The Florida-based law firm Broad and Cassel is pleased to announce the addition of two new associates to the firm’s Commercial Litigation Practice Group: Christopher Cavallo joins the Miami office and Christopher Horton joins the Fort Lauderdale office.

Cavallo previously served as a summer associate at Broad and Cassel, where he worked in the Commercial Litigation and Real Estate Litigation Practice Groups. Prior to joining Broad and Cassel, he interned as an assistant to the chief financial officer of the Miami Art Museum.

Cavallo graduated magna cum laude from Siena College in 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. He then received his juris doctor from the University of Miami School of Law in 2011. During that time, he was a Charles C. Papy, Jr. Moot Court member and served as vice president. He also won the 1L Moot Court Competition and was a semifinalist in the Spring Advanced Moot Court 2010. Cavallo actively volunteers with the HOPE (Helping Others Through Pro BonoEfforts) and VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) foundations.

Horton previously served as a summer associate at Broad and Cassel. Prior to joining Broad and Cassel, Horton served as a judicial intern to the Honorable John J. O’Sullivan in Miami, Fla. He graduated cum laude from Jacksonville University in 2008, where he was the captain of the football team for two years. He received his juris doctor from the University of Miami School of Law in 2011. During that time, he served as the managing editor of University of Miami Inter-American Law Review, served as the vice president for the Phi Delta Phi honor fraternity and was honored with the C. Clyde Atkins Fall Advanced Moot Court Competition Best Brief.

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R. LEE BENETT AWARDED HENRY CRAGG VOLUNTEER AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS TO JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT

R. Lee Bennett

ORLANDO, FL – November 28, 2011 – R. Lee Bennett, a shareholder in the Orlando office of GrayRobinson, P.A., was awarded the Henry Cragg Volunteer Award, given to those who have gone above and beyond expectations in furthering the work of Junior Achievement. Bennett has been involved with Junior Achievement—the world’s largest organization dedicated to educating young people about business, economics and free enterprise—for 15 years serving as an active member to the executive, advisory and strategic planning committees. 

“Lee has always been and continues to be an integral member and true advocate of Junior Achievement,” said GrayRobinson President Byrd F. “Biff” Marshall, Jr. “His commitment to bettering the community and its citizens is demonstrated though both his leadership and volunteer work.”

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10th Annual International Litigation and Arbitration Conference

CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE

February 23-24, 2011
Miami, Florida


Location: J.W. Marriott Marquis in Downtown Miami. You can view the venue at this link.

If you are interested in joining helping with ILAC, please contact Committee Co-Chair Carlos F. Osorio at cosorio@aballi.com

For those interested in helping with the Pre-Vis Moot Arbitration Completion, please contact Committee Co-Chair Omar Ibrahemat omar@okilaw.com

MORE INFO AT http://www.internationallawsection.org/

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December 2011 Palm Beach County Bar Bulletin

The December issue of the Bar Bulletin is now available online by clicking here . This is a fairly large file and will take a few minutes to download. This issue contains articles on:

* Support the Bar's New Home!
* Information about nominating petitions for Board of Directors
* Board Member Profile: Jason Guari
* Bankruptcy Corner "Exemption Issues & Strategies Regarding the Timing of Filing a Bankruptcy"
* Probate Corber "Failure to Include a Residuary Clause in your Client's Will May Result in Partial Intestacy"
* Personal Injury Corner "Dismissal for Lack of Prosecution - The Final Chapter"
* Diversity Event Photos
* Lawyers Have Heart Report & Photos
* Real Property & Business Litigation Report
* Real Life Practice Article "Got an iPad? You Need These Apps"
* Securities Law Corner: "Does a 'Finder' of Corporate Financing Need to Register Under the Securities Law to be Compensated?
* Rules Corner "Rule 1.442: Proposals for Settlements"
* Technology Corner: "What are Jurors Doing on the Internet?
* Photos from Events
* 2012 Court Holiday Schedule
* Seminar Fliers for the following Seminars and Events:

• January 13 Family Law Seminar "The Psychological Dimensions of a Family Law Case"
• January 17 Solo Luncheon "What You Need & Don't Need to Run your Practice
• January 18 Substantive Law & Practical Advice from the Masters in the Litigation & Trial of Business Disputes
• January 25 "29th Annual Estate & Probate Seminar"
• January 27 "Real Estate in Tough Times - The New Norm"
• February 7 "Medical School 101 for Lawyers"
• February 13 "ADR in 2012: the Solution to the Resolution"
• February 22 Bankruptcy Seminar "The View from the Local Bench"
  
  Click here to see more information about these seminars and to register

And much more.....

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Social Media: A tool to enhance your network or Avoid Rejection

This week's question garnered some fantastic responses from across the legal community. My original draft of this posting included many of these great insights, however two comments in particular seemed to capture the conflicting motivations for jumping on the social media bandwagon so well that I have tossed the rest. I encourage you to join the conversation and look forward to your comments and thoughts on the following arguments for the emphasis on social media in your business development.

Does the virtual world of networking impact one's ability (think skill set) to network face-to-face?

Donna DiMaggio Berger, Esq. • Managing Partner, Katzman Garfinkel & Berger @CondoandHOALaw  

If used to the exclusion of personal contact, then yes, total reliance on Social Media could very well weaken your ability to network effectively when other forums become necessary. However, when used in conjunction with more traditional meetings, events, seminars, etc., "knowing" someone even if just by name and dialogue through LI and other Social Media sites can be a really effective ice-breaker. Haven't we all experienced awkward networking events years ago where you scanned the room to see if there was anyone you knew or a group you could join in discussion? These days, most folks "know" each other at least in name thanks to Social Media which makes traditional networking a much more comfortable experience.

Josh Kotler • Owner at Western Digitech, Inc.  @Josh_Kotler

There is little doubt that it does. Networking is really about business development, which is ultimately geared toward selling your professional service. This type of selling is a very personal process, or at least it should be. Networking, and the selling that it ideally develops into, brings with it a certain amount of rejection which can be hard to handle for many people. Social media networking is less personal and therefore involves less emotional risk. So people over-utilize it to avoid a more personal form of rejection. The net result is that they often fail to make the personal connection that enables trust, which enables a professional business relationship to take root. Virtual networking is a good way to create credibility and to reinforce your other efforts, but selling professional relationships has to get personal at some point. You have to put yourself out there take some risks!

Do you think most people in careers that traditionally included networking are jumping on the social media bandwagon to enhance their effectiveness or avoid rejection?




Post your thoughtful responses for possible inclusion in next week's Blog:

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South Florida Legal Events - December 5 - December 17, 2011 CLE, Networking & Charity

NOW Color Coded!!

Broward - Miami-Dade - Palm Beach

Sign up for a free Events Newsletter subscription http://eepurl.com/YSBw

Mon Dec 5, 2011

12pm Bankruptcy Lunch and Learn "Everything you Wanted to Know about the Means Test but were Afraid to Ask" http://goo.gl/eCJn9

Where: BCBA Offices, 1051 SE 3rd Ave, Fort Lauderdale

Cost: $10 Members $20 Non-Members

Contact: Traci Lewis (954)832-3618 or traci@browardbar.org

12pm Palm Beach Hispanic Bar Assn. Meeting

Where: Judicial Conference Room, Main Courthouse

Contact: dzuniga@foryourrights.com

Tue Dec 6, 2011

11:30am Miami Beach Bar Association: Installation luncheon with former U.S. Senator George LeMieux, Miami-Dade Circuit Chief Judge Joel Brown and 3^rd DCA Judge Kevin Emas

Where: Texas de Brazil, 300 Alton Road, Miami Beach

Cost: $50 members, $60 nonmembers, $10 more at the door.

Contact: (786) 462-6000

12pm The Keywords to Success: How to Generate More Business for Your Law Firm with Search Engine Optimization

Where: http://goo.gl/2E3zT

Wed Dec 7, 2011

11:45am South Palm Beach County Bar Association: Taxation Law seminar

Where: US Trust, Bank of America Private Wealth Management, 280 E. Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton

Cost: $20 members, $30 nonmembers.

Contact: southcounty@southpalmbeachbar.org

12pm Dade County Bar Association Young Lawyers Section present SOCIAL MEDIA LAW & ORDER http://goo.gl/8KVPp

Description: An interactive and entertaining multi-media CLE presentation analyzing the effect of social media and the law. Social media enthusiast, practicing attorney, and co-author of The Social Media Guide for Lawyers, Ethan Wall will introduce the major social media sites and explain how these new technologies are affecting the outcome of trials, discovery, ethics, and legal marketing.

Cost: $30 Admission Members/ $35 Non-Members | Lunch Included

Discounted Admission with Donation to DCBA YLS Homeless Outreach Toy Drive

Contact:  Adilia Hedges at ach@kubickidraper.com  or Sorraya Solages at ssolages@berklawfirm.com

5:30pm Coach & Connect Mixer

Where: Sabadell United Bank, 1111 Brickell Ave # 111, Miami

Description: Join us for a speed networking/ mentoring event! This event is an excellent opportunity to meet lawyers within and outside of your practice group and gain insight into legal issues which affect your daily practice!

Cost: ATTENDANCE IS FREE! Co-hosted by: Dade County Bar Association/ Young Lawyers Division & Caribbean Bar Association

Contact: Alison Smith at jamdehli@yahoo.com  or Schuyler Smith at ss@lydeckerdiaz.com

6pm SOUTH FLORIDA PARALEGAL ASSOCIATION'S Miami-Dade Holiday Party

Where: TBA

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Perez and Wahid Speak to Association of Pakistani Physicians about Criminal and Civil Liability

Perez & Wahid

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.; November 21, 2011 — Elizabeth Perez, Of Counsel, with the Fort Lauderdale office of the statewide law firm Broad and Cassel, and Khurrum Wahid of Wahid Vizcaino LLP recently addressed the South Florida Chapter of the Association of Pakistani Physicians on “Hot Topics on Criminal and Civil Liability for Physicians.” They spoke at the organization’s annual meeting and CME program.

Their presentation included information physicians can use to ensure their practices are in compliance with today’s complex health care laws. They discussed recent developments in the laws regarding South Florida’s “pill mills” and heightened law enforcement measures related to Medicare and Medicaid billing practices. Perez focused on physician’s due process rights in civil and administrative procedures, while Wahid spoke about the prevention of criminal liability and the importance of having a compliance program.

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Orlando Day Nursery Honors Holland & Knight as Outstanding Community Partner

Holland & Knight’s Amy Rigdon receives award
from ODN Board President Steven Kirby.

Orlando, Fla. – November 22, 2011 – Holland & Knight was recently honored as an Outstanding Community Partner by the Orlando Day Nursery (ODN) at their 90th Anniversary Celebration. The event took place on November 12 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. The firm began its partnership with ODN in 1995 and is the longest corporate sponsor of the organization.

Holland & Knight's history with the ODN includes implementing a Reading is Fundamental program that brought new books and readers to the childcare center year-round; providing Halloween costumes and an annual Trick-or-Treat party for the children; providing paper and pencils to the children to practice their writing skills at home; donating Publix gift certificates to families each holiday season; and honoring ODN grandparents by serving them breakfast. The Holland & Knight community partnership is further strengthened through the firm’s voluntary service on the Nursery’s Board of Directors.

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the Fall 2011 issue of the International Law Quarterly special Brazil issue

To all members of the International Law Section:

Download your copy of the Fall 2011 issue of the International Law Quarterly special Brazil issue here.

This issue is one of the most auspicious we have ever published. At eighty pages, it is packed with valuable information on one of the world’s strongest economies. Indeed, the authors represent some of the most respected experts in the fields of Brazilian law, trade, business and government. Special thanks go to Section members Quinn Smith and Mauricio Gomm Santos for spearheading this exceptional issue. We believe it is surely worth saving and will become the ultimate reference guide on Brazil for years to come.

On behalf of the International Law Section, we hope you enjoy it.

Alvin F. Lindsay
Editor-in-Chief

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Baker Hostetler Orlando Hires Attorney Chirag B. Kabrawala

The Orlando Office of Baker Hostetler is pleased to announce the recent hiring of Chirag B. Kabrawala, in the real estate law group.

Chirag Kabrawala practices in the area of real estate law with an emphasis on the hospitality and resort development industries. As a member of the firm’s Hospitality Industry Team, Chirag has experience in the acquisition, development, financing, franchising and disposition of hotels, restaurants, resorts, condo-hotels and related properties. Chirag also works closely with the firm’s Bankruptcy, Restructuring and Creditors’ Rights practice, where he counsels clients in the hospitality industry in the negotiation and documentation of loan workouts and restructuring of debt.

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Vivian de las Cuevas-Diaz Joins Florida Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

MIAMI, Fla.; November 16, 2011 — The Florida-based law firm Broad and Cassel is pleased to announce that Miami Partner Vivian de las Cuevas-Diaz  has been selected to serve on the Board of Directors for the Florida Chamber of Commerce. Douglas Rillstone, a Partner in the Tallahassee office, has also joined the Florida Chamber of Commerce on the Board of Governors.

At Broad and Cassel, de las Cuevas-Diaz is a member of the firm's Banking and Institutional Lending, Real Estate and Special Assets Practice Groups. She has extensive experience in complex real estate transactions for both private and public clients.

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Brian Watson Elected East Orlando Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Chairman

Watson

ORLANDO, Fla.; November 16, 2011 — The Florida-based law firm Broad and Cassel is pleased to announce that Orlando Associate Brian Watson was recently elected to serve as Chairman of the 2012 Board of Directors for the East Orlando Chamber of Commerce (EOCC). A Lake Nona resident, Watson currently serves as co-chair of the Southeast Advisory Council and on the Finance Committee.

In addition to his leadership at the Chamber, Watson also serves as Vice President of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Orlando and sits on the Finance Committee. He was awarded the William Blews service award for outstanding service to the community at Stetson University and has volunteered many hours to the Warrick Dunn Foundation and is an active volunteer in the Give Kids the World Foundation.

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Broad and Cassel’s Tampa Office Welcomes David M. Brickhouse and Lauren L. Lewis

TAMPA, Fla.; November 14, 2011 — The Florida-based law firm Broad and Cassel is pleased to announce the addition of David M. Brickhouse and Lauren L. Lewis as associates in the Tampa office. Brickhouse joins the Commercial Litigation Practice Group and Lewis joins the Bankruptcy and Creditors’ Rights Practice Group.

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Jonathan Levy has been invited to join the American Board of Trail Advocates (ABOTA)

WEST PALM BEACH, FL (November 14, 2011) — Shareholder Jonathan Levy has been invited to join the American Board of Trail Advocates (ABOTA). ABOTA is a national association of experienced trial lawyers and judges dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the civil jury trial right provided by the Seventh Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. ABOTA works to uphold the jury system by educating the American public about the history and value of the right to trial by jury. All ABOTA members have a minimum requirement of 20 civil jury trials to jury verdict as lead counsel.

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GRAYROBINSON WELCOMES LINDA PISANI TO ITS TAMPA OFFICE

TAMPA, FL – The Tampa office of GrayRobinson, P.A. welcomes Linda G. Pisani as the newest associate in the healthcare litigation practice group. Pisani practices in many areas of the law, including commercial litigation, general civil litigation and family law. She is admitted to practice in the State of Florida, as well as the United States District Court, Middle District of Florida.

“We are pleased to welcome such an up-and-coming lawyer,” said GrayRobinson President Byrd F. "Biff" Marshall, Jr.  “Linda has worked across a number of fields and will be able to provide a unique prospective to her peers as well as clients.”

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R. Lee Bennett receives the Henry Cragg Volunteer Award from Junior Achievement of Central Florida

This year’s deserving recipient of the Henry Cragg Award is Lee Bennett, a partner at GrayRobinson, P.A. Lee has been involved with Junior Achievement for 15 years. He has been active on the Executive Committee, serving as treasurer and Annual Campaign chair.

Lee has been a long-time volunteer and consistently recruits others to join him in the classroom. With his extraordinary leadership and vision, he brings creative energy to every endeavor. He has been a true advocate and friend of Junior Achievement staff, Board and most importantly the students of Central Florida.

The Henry Cragg Award was established in memory of Henry Cragg, former JA board chairman, fundraiser and volunteer extraordinaire. In order to preserve and perpetuate Henry’s wonderful spirit, JA selects an individual who has gone far above and beyond any expectations in furthering the work of Junior Achievement.

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Gary Resnick APPOINTED TO SERVE ON THE FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION’S INTERGOVERNMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – November 21, 2011– Gary I. Resnick, shareholder in the Fort Lauderdale office of GrayRobinson, P.A. and Mayor of the City of Wilton Manors, has been selected to serve on the Federal Communication Commission’s Intergovernmental Advisory Committee (IAC). The IAC is comprised of 15 elected officials and is aimed at providing a voice for local governments by providing advice and information to the Commission on telecommunications issues important to local, state and tribal governments. Other local government leaders selected to serve on the IAC include New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who will chair the Committee, Lenexa, Kansas Council member Andy Huckaba, and Arlanda Williams, Councilwoman, Terrebone Parish, Houma, Louisiana.

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Lance A. Harke Named 2012’s Citizen of the Year by the Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce

MIAMI – Managing Partner Lance A. Harke of the Miami Shores-based commercial litigation and consumer class action law firm of Harke Clasby & Bushman LLP, (www.harkeclasby.com) has recently been named 2012’s Citizen of the Year by the Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce. The announcement was made at this month’s village council meeting.

“It is an honor to be included amid such an esteemed group of dedicated community leaders” said Lance A. Harke. “Because the Village and citizens of Miami Shores have provided so much to us for so many years it is a privilege to give a little bit back and help preserve our community for future generations.” The selection process for the Citizen of the Year award is voted upon by the Board of Directors of the Miami Shores Chamber of Commerce.

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Edwin A. Scales III, ELECTED CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF FLORIDA KEYS COMMUNITY COLLEGE

KEY WEST, FL – November 16, 2011 – The board of trustees for the Florida Keys Community College has elected Edwin A. Scales III, of-counsel in the Key West office of GrayRobinson, P.A., to serve as chairman. Having been appointed to the trustee’s board by Governor Jeb Bush in 2006 and reappointed by Governor Charlie Crist and Governor Rick Scott in 2007 and 2011, respectively, Scales currently sits on the District Board of Trustees and previously chaired the board from 2007 to 2009.

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Let's Do It Again! Adopt-A-Family & Toy Drive

Dear Amigos,   Motivated by the extraordinary community response last year to our Adopt-A-Family-For-The-Holidays initiative, Broward County Hispanic Bar Association has decided to again adopt Broward County families in the 2011 Adopt-A-Family-For-The-Holidays program. This means that, with your support, we will again feed dozens of families and provide toys for the kids in each household. This is the most ambitious community service initiative in BCHBA's history and hope we can again count with your support in bringing a happy holiday to those in need. Your $100 donation will provide a family with a Thanksgiving and Christmas meal and toys for all children in the family. As we did last year, BCHBA will do all the work of purchasing and coordinating the delivery of the meals and toys. Just respond to President Francis Viamontes at francisviamontes@gmail.com if you wish to adopt a family and mail your check for $100 (payable to BCHBA) to the following address: Broward County Hispanic Bar Association PO BOX 350248 Lauderdale.Florida. 33335 We thank you in advance for your generosity and look forward to making Broward County a bit brighter this holiday season. Happy Holidays! BCHBA

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Is Social Media weakening your Social Muscles?

It occurred to me recently that the world is getting too reliant on "social" media as an alternative to real life "social" interaction. So I posted a question regarding the effectiveness of each and here are a few of the more interesting responses I received:

Jeffrey L. Wolf • @trialjeffrey  Although online can reach more people, real social inteaction "seals the deal." However, online networking followed by a personal phone conversation is my favorite for combining the two. Networking, like friendship, needs interaction or it goes stale.

 Marvin Glassman • Glassman Public Relations I like networking at events, but I reach people more online. Ideally, the fist interaction are done at events and then followups can be done online. Having the first live meeting with someone that can be a potential client is crucial for growth in my business.

This led me to a second question. I am big on the concept of "touches in a day" If we were to gauge the power of a touch ranging from posting on here, joining an online conversation, sending an email/direct message, making a phone call and finally in person interaction I woundered what the equivalent touches would be.

To get my answer i contacted two of the Major Players in Legal Marketing. Here is what they had to say:

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DEAN COLSON ELECTED CHAIR OF THE FLORIDA BOARD OF GOVERNORS

Colson to Lead
State University System
 of Florida in 2012

CORAL GABLES, Fla. (Nov. 16, 2011) – Attorney Dean Colson, partner at Coral Gables-based law firm Colson Hicks Eidson, has been unanimously elected chair of the Board of Governors of the State University System of Florida, a 17-member board responsible for the management of Florida’s State University System. Colson was nominated for the position by Governor Patricia Frost. His term will begin January 2012.

“I am honored to be chosen to lead the Board of Governors and look forward to carrying out its mission with my fellow board members through these challenging times,” said Colson. “We have more than 320,000 students in the State University System and it is important that we continue our commitment and constitutional responsibility to ensure the System has the resources it needs to serve and prepare them for the economy of tomorrow.”

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GRAYROBINSON ADDS MARGARET HUNT TO CIVIL LITIGATION TEAM

ORLANDO, FL – November 16, 2011 – Margaret “Peggy” E. Hunt joins the Orlando office of GrayRobinson P.A. as an associate. Her practice will focus on all aspects of civil litigation with an emphasis on construction litigation and complex civil litigation in federal court.

“We are excited to welcome Peggy to our growing civil litigation practice in Central Florida,” said GrayRobinson President Byrd “Biff” Marshall, Jr. “I feel confident she will continue GrayRobinson’s tradition of legal and professional excellence in the state of Florida.”

Prior to joining GrayRobinson, Hunt clerked for the Honorable Marcia Morales Howard, United States District Court Judge for the Middle District of Florida. She also completed a judicial externship with the Honorable Anne C. Conway, Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida.

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Yova A. Borovska Joins Fowler White Boggs

Tampa, FL – Fowler White Boggs is pleased to announce that Yova A. Borovska has joined the Firm's Tampa office as an associate in the Immigration Practice Group.

Ms. Borovska concentrates her practice in all aspects of immigration law, including temporary visa processing, applications for permanent residence and naturalization, defense in removal proceedings, and applications for waivers of inadmissibility. Ms. Borovska received her B.A. from Eckerd College and her J.D., cum laude, from Stetson University College of Law.

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How to sit straight in a video deposition

Schedule a Video Deposition with Josh at 800-726-7007 ext 1818 or email jcoller@veritext.com

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KUBS LALCHANDANI AND DANNY SIMON ESTABLISH LALCHANDANI SIMON, A FLORIDA LAW FIRM BASED IN MIAMI

Simon

Lalchandani

MIAMI – November 14, 2011 – Kubs Lalchandani and Danny Simon, two former big-firm litigators noted for their experience representing some of the nation’s largest corporations, today announced they have joined forces to establish Lalchandani Simon, a Florida law firm that focuses on social media law, healthcare compliance, intellectual property, electronic information, business planning, and litigation and appeals.

The attorneys, who previously worked at the international law firm White & Case, currently help corporate, governmental and individual clients navigate today’s legal environment, which is growing increasingly complex due to emerging trends in technology, social media, information compliance and intellectual property protection.

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South Florida Legal Events - November 14 - December 15, 2011 CLE, Networking & Charity

NOW Color Coded!!

Broward - Miami-Dade - Palm Beach

Sign up for a free Events Newsletter subscription http://eepurl.com/YSBw

Mon Nov 14, 2011

12pm Family Law E-Filing Seminar

Where: BCBA Offices, 1051 SE 3rd Ave, Fort Lauderdale

Cost: $15 Members $25 Non-Members Lunch included

Contact: Traci Lewis (954) 832-3618 or traci@browardbar.org 

RSVP: https://www.browardbar.org/event11142011familylawefilingseminar.php

12pm YLS Probate 101: "Life After Death: A Practical Approach to What to do After Someone Passes Away" http://goo.gl/9nUUL

Where: Lawson E. Thomas Courthouse Center 175 NW 1st Avenue 11th Floor Conference Room, Miami FL 33128

Description: Main speaker: Richard C. Milstein of Akerman Senterfitt Introduction by: Judge Korvick

Tue Nov 15, 2011

8:30am Palm Beach County Bar Association: Lawyers for Literacy

Where: Adult Education Center, 2161 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach

Cost: Free Contact: 561-939-4893

4pm Broward County Bar Association Elder Law Section: “Basic Tax Issues for Elder Law Attorneys”

Where: Bar office, 1051 SE Third Ave., Fort Lauderdale

Cost: $10 members, $20 nonmembers

Contact: (954) 764-8040

6pm VIP Cocktails for a Cause Kick Off The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation 25^th Anniversary

Where: Farraddys Steakhouse Isle Casino Racing Pompano Park 777 Isle of Capri Circle Pompano Beach

Description: Join us for Complimentary Cocktails and Appetizers

Contact: Nathalie Sloane nsloane@msfocus.org  954-776-6805

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Nicholas Banegas Joins Fowler White Boggs

Fort Lauderdale, FL - Fowler White Boggs is pleased to announce that Nicholas Banegas has joined the Firm as an associate in the Fort Lauderdale office.

Mr. Banegas practices in the Firm’s Employment Law Group and concentrates his practice on complex commercial litigation with an emphasis on commercial, immigration and labor and employment matters. He has experience as a civil litigator in cases involving various labor, commercial and investment disputes including representing investors with claims in excess of US $100 million in the largest financial fraud case in Florida history.

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2012 Hispanic Bar Association Tennis & Golf Tournament

Miami, FL - Join lawyers working in corporate legal departments and major law firms, judges, law students and others, on the court - and course - for a fun game of tennis or golf, and casual, easy-going business networking. ALL SKILL LEVELS ARE WELCOME, INCLUDING BEGINNERS! But if you're the first to make a hole-in-one, you win a Mercedes Benz! Breakfast, lunch and dinner are catered and included - so are the Happy Hour cocktails!

Don't play tennis or golf? Join us anyway for a game of dominoes and other activities. Have you ever considered becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister? Here is your chance, as children in the program will come out for a USTA Quickstart Tennis game!

Click here to learn more and to register now, and book your room in the Sonesta Bayfront Hotel Coconut Grove here!

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Mark H. Mirkin & Phyllis L. Shuster join Hicks, Motto & Ehrlich

Mirkin

Mark H. Mirkin and Phyllis L. Shuster have joined Hicks, Motto & Ehrlich in Palm Beach Gardens as partners and formed a corporate, securities, and real estate practice group. Mirkin focuses on corporate and securities law. Shuster is a corporate, commercial real estate, and regulatory attorney.

Hicks, Motto & Ehrlich is a transactional and civil trial practice that handles a wide range of legal matters, ranging from personal injury and family law to commercial litigation and real estate law.

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Caryn Diamond joins Fisher & Phillips in Orlando

Caryn Diamond has joined Fisher & Phillips in Orlando as an associate where her practice will focus on labor and employment law.

In particular, she represents and advises employers in employment discrimination and harassment issues, litigation of employment disputes, wage and hour claims, and employee leave matters. Caryn has defended employment claims in both federal and state courts in the State of Florida and administrative agencies. Caryn previously served as a judicial intern for the Third District Court of Appeal in Miami, Florida and the Eighth Judicial Circuit Court Probate Division in Gainesville, Florida.

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Shyamie Dixit joins Lynch & Robbins Law Firm

Shyamie Dixit has joined Lynch & Robbins Law Firm in St. Petersburg as a senior associate. Dixit is a registered patent attorney and focuses his practice in the areas of civil litigation, intellectual property, employment law, commercial and construction law, contract law and insurance issues.

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Three Join Kubicki Draper in South FL

Shipp

Adler

LeVine

Ryan S. Shipp has joined Kubicki Draper in West Palm Beach where he will focus on handling commercial foreclosure, commercial litigation, and bankruptcy matters.
Lauren S. Adler has joined Kubicki Draper in Miami where she will focus on commercial/corporate disputes, products liability, and construction litigation.
Jennifer R. LeVine has joined Kubicki Draper in West Palm Beach where she will focus on cases involving automobile negligence, premises liability, and claims handling.

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Carey N. Bos has joined Kubicki Draper

Carey N. Bos has joined Kubicki Draper as a shareholder in the Orlando. Bos concentrates on defending complex litigation matters with a focus on the automobile, trucking, products liability, and premises liability.

Mr. Bos has practiced law in the Central Florida area since 1978. He began his legal career with the law firm of Rogers and Dowling for 9 years. While there, he became a partner after 4 years. He then started his own practice where he practiced continuously until 2008 when he took a shareholder position with Swartz Campbell. He then resigned his position and returned to solo practice for 2 years before joining Kubicki Draper. He has recently joined the firm of Kubicki Draper to continue what he enjoys best --the practice of law in the arena of insurance defense litigation.

His primary focus has been insurance defense on behalf of carriers and insureds.

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Marta Stypulkowski has joined Richman Greer

Marta Stypulkowski has joined Richman Greer in West Palm Beach as an associate. Stypulkowski focuses her practice on commercial and complex civil litigation.

Prior to joining Richman Greer, she was an associate attorney with the law firm of Adams Coogler in West Palm Beach. Stypulkowski is admitted to practice in Florida and is a member of the Palm Beach County Bar Association, Young Lawyers Section, the Florida Defense Lawyers Association and the Palm Beach County Chapter of the Florida Association for Women Lawyers (FAWL). She holds a Juris Doctor from the College of Law and a Bachelor of Arts cum laude in Liberal Arts, both from the University of Florida.

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Jill K. Schmidt has joined Befera Joli & Velázquez in Miami

Jill K. Schmidt has become as associate at Befera Joli & Velázquez in Miami. Schmidt focuses on family law/divorce and civil litigation.

Ms. Schmidt is admitted to practice in the State of Florida. She began working with the firm as a law clerk in June 2010. Ms. Schmidt received her Juris Doctor Degree from the University of Miami School of Law, graduating magna cum laude, in 2011 and her B.S. Degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Central Florida in 2007.

While attending the University of Miami School of Law, Ms. Schmidt was a member of the Moot Court Board, winning the Advanced Moot Court Competition and the award for Best Brief. Additionally, Ms. Schmidt was an intern and later a fellow with the Street Law Program, providing practical, participatory education about law, democracy and human rights at Coral Gables Senior High School.

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Adrian Alvarez Joins Weiss Serota Helfman Pastoriza Cole & Boniske

Adrian Alvarez has joined Weiss Serota Helfman Pastoriza Cole & Boniske in Ft. Lauderdale. Alvarez’s practice will concentrate on commercial litigation.

For the past several years, Adrian has represented all types of businesses in litigation throughout the State of Florida in both State and Federal court. His litigation and trial practice focuses on complex business, construction and municipal/government litigation.

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