The Writs Winter 2021 by Hoffmann Publishing Group

WINTER 2021

BENCH BAR is officially back!

A MINUTE WITH THE FOUNDATION’S NEW TRUSTEE SARAH RYAN BITE OUT OF CANCER THE RED MASS

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ISSUE: 2109 ORG/PUB: Bucks Writs

contents 2022 CONTACT INFO

2021 CONTACT INFO

President Julie D. Goldstein

President Sean M. Gresh

Vice President/President Elect Lawrence R. Scheetz, Jr Secretary R. Tyler Tomlinson Treasurer Jeremy D. Puglia Immediate Past President Sean M. Gresh Past Presidents’ Representative David J. Truelove Board of Directors Erin Kernan Aronson Brendan M. Callahan Susan E. Dardes Jeffrey G. DiAmico Christopher S. Mahoney Bianca A. Roberto (Young Lawyers’ Division Representative) Francis J. Sullivan Tiffany Thomas-Smith Megan Weiler Jason R. Weiss Melanie J. Wender Writs Editor Jason R. Weiss

WINTER 2021

LASP partners with ABA Young Lawyers Vice President/ Disaster Legal Services in response President Elect to Hurricane Ida Julie D. Goldstein Secretary.......................................................................................... Page 8 R. Tyler Tomlinson

The Red Mass

Treasurer.......................................................................................... Page 10 Lawrence R. Sheetz, Jr. A Minute with The Immediate Past Foundation’s New Trustee Sarah Ryan President Daniel M. Keane .......................................................................................... Page 13 Past Presidents’ Representative Grace M. Deon

Bench Bar Is Officially Back!

Board of Directors .......................................................................................... Page 14 Maureen L. Anderson Tiffanie C. Benfer We Asked, You Answered: Susan E. Dardes Winter Wellness Activities Jeffrey G. DiAmico .......................................................................................... Page 18 Steven M. Jones Emma M. Kline Jeremy D. Puglia Francis J. Sullivan Bite Out of Cancer Tiffany Thomas-Smith .......................................................................................... Page 28 Sara M. Webster Jason R. Weiss Also in This Issue: Melanie J. Wender • President’s Letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 • From the Editor… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Writs Photographer Dylan Gilheany

• CLEs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 • Women’s Summit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Bar Association Office Greg Nardi, Executive Director 135 East State Street Doylestown, PA 18901 215.348.9413 • www.bucksbar.org

• Pro Bono Honor Roll . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 • Pro Bono Awards & Reception . . . . . . . 22 • Veterans Treatment Graduation . . . . . . 24 • BCBA Annual Meeting and Holiday Festivus Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

email submissions to WritsEditor@BucksBar.org

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The written and visual contents of this magazine are protected by copyright. Reproduction of print or digital articles without written permission from Hoffmann Publishing Group, Inc., and/or the Bucks County Bar Association is forbidden. The opinions expressed in this publication are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific legal or other advice or recommendations for any individuals. Additionally, the placement of editorial content, opinions and paid advertising does not imply endorsement by the Bucks County Bar Association.

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WINTER 2021

President’s Message

lawyers were able to get along well over beers and another successful event was in the books. The highlight of any year at the Bar Association is the annual Bench Bar Conference, which was held at Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg, NJ. This year’s Conference was one of our most successful ever. We had a record number of attendees, a record number of sponsors, and a record amount of fun. We had excellent speakers, instructive CLEs, and entertaining programming the entire weekend. I’d like to thank Melanie Wender and her Bench Bar Committee for all their hard work this year. They stepped up in a big way and it showed. Congratulations go out to everyone involved.

Sean Gresh Bucks County Bar Association President

Our relationship with the Bucks County Bench has never been stronger. Early in the year we continued our commitment to ensuring that our members were provided with up-to-date information about COVID protocols through our online streaming meetings with the Board of Judges to discuss Justice Center health and safety protocols. We were able to work closely with the Court throughout the year to ensure that the Court was aware of issues that were important to our members and achieve results that benefit our members and their clients. We also had excellent attendance at Bench Bar from our Judges and their clerks. I’d like to thank President Judge Bateman and Court Administrator Heckman for their help in all these endeavors.

As we enter the holiday season, when time comes for each of us to give thanks for the blessings in our lives, I compose my final column as President of the Bucks County Bar Association with gratitude in my heart toward so many. I look back on our mutual successes with pride. We have enjoyed a very productive and entertaining year, due in large part to the dedication of our members and our staff.

We began wrapping up our year at the Annual Meeting and Open House. Ongoing concerns about health and safety caused us to think outside the box for this event. We decided that an indoor / outdoor open house would serve the members best. Greg and the staff truly outdid themselves with this event. We have received many compliments on how enjoyable the evening was, with more than a few suggesting that this format remain for the future. While this decision will be up to future Presidents and Boards, I think I speak for everyone that it was a fun night that was enjoyed by all in attendance.

We were the first Bar Association in the area to open our building to our members after the massive shutdowns caused by the global pandemic in 2020. We kicked off our year with the Opening of Assizes utilizing innovative ideas from our leadership and nimble planning and execution from our staff. I don’t think it to be hyperbolic to say that event was one of the most successful and fun Openings we have held in some time. We held our first (annual?) Around the World Cocktail Competition. Congratulations again to the WLD and their award winning (Carol Shelly’s) Manhattans. Everyone enjoyed the smash car, including some members of our bench, and the weather cooperated.

I can’t pass up the opportunity to thank the staff for all their hard work and dedication. Greg, Emily, Kristen, Barbara, Dylan, Lynn, Joanne, and Kelly, I am amazed by your work and your results. Thanks to each of you for making me look so good.

The weather did not hold out for the Hon. John J. Rufe Softball Game. We were able to get in a few innings before the skies opened up and forced us all to retire to the bar. Luckily, the “Seasoned” lawyers and Young

Now I quietly pass into the ether of history and join all the other past-presidents in welcoming Julie Goldstein to the

office of President of our Bar Association. I know you will all be in great hands with Julie. The energy and attention to detail that she brings to this position will show in our events and programming every day. Congratulations Julie, I know you will continue to make us all proud to be members of the Bucks County Bar Association. Finally, thanks to all of you for your faith and trust in me. I have enjoyed my year as President of BCBA, and will look back on my time in this position with pride that we all did it the best we could. I have been honored to serve you this year, and will look forward to future opportunities to continue this service. I can’t wait to see what else we are capable of. Until then, thanks for everything… 

The Bucks County Mediation and Arbitration Center (BCMAC) is owned and operated by Barbara N. Lyons, Esq. She is certified, skilled and experienced in neutral arbitration, mediation and case evaluation. Attorneys work closely with Barbara from initial contact to the conclusion of their case.

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BUCKS COUNTY

WINTER 2021 ISSUE: 2109 1711 1708 1705 ORG/PUB: Bucks Writs

From the Editor…

Thanks for the memories.

I would be remiss if I did not thank the amazing “regulars” that attended our meetings, gave valuable insight and counseling, and provided thoughtful and informative articles over the years. I believe we have given our members every opportunity to bring to light a variety of different topics and take pride in all of the positive things the BCBA does for our community.

In what is a bittersweet moment, I am writing my final article as Editor of the Writs. After three years at the helm of our cherished publication, I will be stepping down and handing the red pen over Jason R. Weiss to BCBA superstar Melanie Editor, Bucks Writs Wender. As most of you know, Melanie has been involved in almost every aspect of the bar association and just chaired a very successful Bench Bar. Keep reading to find out just how successful it was! I trust you will continue to see high quality editions of the Writs for years to come under Melanie’s guidance.

It has been a pleasure and a great opportunity to serve our members in this capacity and I look forward to rejoining the ranks as a regular contributor once again. Stay classy, Bucks County!  — Jason R. Weiss

Need a Lawyer?

ATTORNEY DISCIPLINARY AND ETHICS MATTERS

Welcome to the Bucks County Bar Association’s

STATEWIDE PENNSYLVANIA MATTERS NO CHARGE FOR INITIAL CONSULTATION

Lawyer Referral and Information Service (LRIS) serving all of Bucks County. The LRIS is a public service of

Representation, consultation and expert testimony in disciplinary matters and matters involving ethical issues, bar admissions and the Rules of Professional Conduct

the non-profit Bucks County Bar Association. Each year the LRIS responds to thousands of callers,

James C. Schwartzman, Esq.

referring them to attorneys with experience in the

• Judge, Court of Judicial Discipline • Former Chairman, Judicial Conduct Board of Pennsylvania • Former Chairman, Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania • Former Chairman, Continuing Legal Education Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania • Former Chairman, Supreme Court of Pennsylvania Interest on Lawyers Trust Account Board • Former Federal Prosecutor • Selected by his peers as one of the top 100 Super Lawyers in PA and the top 100 Super Lawyers in Philadelphia • Named by his peers as Best Lawyers in America 2015 Philadelphia Ethics and Professional Responsibility Law “Lawyer of the Year,” and in Plaintiffs and Defendants Legal Malpractice Law

appropriate area of law or to area agencies able to provide assistance. Persons identified as needing legal representation and who do not claim inability to pay an attorney will be referred by LRIS to a participating attorney. LRIS participation is open to all Bucks County Bar Association members having their primary office in Bucks County. You can contact the LRIS at

1500 Market Street, East Tower, Suite 1800 • Philadelphia, PA 19102 (215) 751-2863

SCHWARTZMAN STEVENS & LEE

ISSUE: 2109 2106 2102 ORG/PUB: Bucks Writs MagazineName

215-348-9413.  6

BCBA events CLEs

WINTER 2021

feature

LASP partners with ABA Young Lawyers Disaster Legal Services in response to Hurricane Ida Pro bono opportunity to help low-income residents

LASP joined more than two dozen community nonprofits, government organizations and legislators at a Temporary Resource Center at Keystone Elementary School, Croydon on July 20-21, held in response to “100-year flood” on July 12. Hundreds of Lower Bucks County residents attended. Pictured: Tesla Thomas (at left), Staff Attorney based in Bristol, and Erica Briant, Supervising Attorney for the Community Engagement Unit.

By Marion Hoffman Fraley, Communications Director, Legal Aid of Southeastern PA

Hurricane Ida raged across Bucks County and southeastern

Staff Attorney in the Disaster Relief Unit at Lone Star Legal

PA on Sept. 1, creating a path of destruction of flooding and

Aid in Houston, Texas. The weekly disaster legal aid meeting

tornadoes that will be long-felt. And in July, a 100-year flood

also includes FEMA officials, other PA legal aid programs,

swamped Lower Bucks County. Legal issues related to the

and a Legal Services Corp. (LSC) representative. Kothari also

storms won’t dissipate overnight. In fact, storm-related legal

presented an all-staff training on identifying storm-related

problems are expected to continue for at least three years

legal problems to LASP and other Pennsylvania and New

after the initial event and provide an opportunity for pro bono

Jersey LSC-funded legal aid programs covered by Hurricane

involvement to help low-income residents.

Ida disaster declarations.

In response to Hurricane Ida and the federal disaster

In October, LASP activated the legal aid Helpline for Hurricane

declaration, Legal Aid of Southeastern PA (LASP) is working

Ida in PA, in collaboration with MidPenn Legal Services, North

with the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division’s

Penn Legal Services (NPLS) and Philadelphia Legal Assistance

Disaster Legal Services Program and FEMA to provide disaster

(PLA). FEMA requires one helpline per state per storm.

legal aid. Since 2007, the ABA YLD program has provided

Low-income Montgomery County residents, as well as people

help in 45 states and more than 200 disasters.

in the seven other counties in the federal disaster declaration, can get free legal assistance by calling 877-429-5994

In the immediate aftermath of the July storm, LASP attorneys

Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., or leave a message. Bedford,

staffed a legal resource table at a Temporary Resource

Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Northampton, Phila-

Center at Keystone Elementary School, Croydon on July

delphia and York counties are included in the declaration.

20-21, attended by hundreds of residents. Since the federal disaster declaration following Hurricane Ida, LASP staff have

Tesla Thomas, LASP Staff Attorney, and Joshua Goldblum,

met weekly with Shrushti Kothari, Project Manager, ABA

Bristol Managing Attorney, have opened and closed multiple

YLD National Disaster Content and Resources, and former

storm-related cases based in Bucks County, including FEMA 8

applications and denials and landlord-tenant matters. Sara Planthaber, J.D., M.S.W., LASP’s Hurricane Ida Helpline Specialist, noted that as of Nov. 17, LASP has opened the highest number of storm-related cases based in Montgomery County. Examples of legal help available may include:

• FEMA application and other benefits available ID Clinic presented by LASP’s Bristol Office and sponsored by Penn Community Bank.

to disaster survivors. The initial deadline, Nov. 10, was extended to Dec. 10.

unaware of the legal issues faced by disaster survivors and the

• FEMA denials

particular needs of low-income communities. Legal services

• Help with home repair contracts and contractors

providers have deep networks in low-income communities

• Replacement of identity documents (such as birth

and have experience creating access for people who face

certificates and Social Security cards)

barriers to services and information.”

• Consumer protection matters

• Mortgage-foreclosure or landlord-tenant problems

C. Shawn Boehringer, Esq., LASP Executive Director, noted,

• Life, medical, and property insurance claims

“This was a case where we responded to an emerging need. LASP is uniquely positioned to address many

In response to increased disasters, Legal Services Corp.’s

community needs.” 

Disaster Task Force developed a 94-page report in 2018-19 to

Disaster legal aid resources:

address the legal impact of disasters on low-income survivors. Among the common legal problems in the wake of a

• “Report of the LSC Disaster Task Force,” Legal

disaster are landlord-tenant issues, public benefits, document

Services Corp.: https://www.lsc.gov/our-impact/

replacement, title clearing, FEMA appeals, domestic violence,

publications/other-publications-and-reports/lsc-

and consumer and fraud issues.

disaster-task-force-report

Attorneys and paralegals who wish to volunteer with LASP’s

• Disaster Legal Services Program, American Bar

Pro Bono Program in any of these areas may contact Megan

Association Young Lawyers Division: https://www.

Reinprecht, LASP Community Engagement Unit Staff Attorney

americanbar.org/groups/young_lawyers/projects/

and Bucks County Pro Bono Coordinator, at 484-206-8101 or

disaster-legal-services/

mreinprecht@lasp.org. The LSC report encourages community-wide disaster

• National Disaster Legal Aid Resource Center: https://www.disasterlegalaid.org/

planning and collaboration between the legal and emergency

management communities. It states (on page 12):

• Legal Aid Disaster Resource Center: https:// www.ladrc.org/

“Despite legal aid’s potential in the aftermath of disaster,

there can be a significant gap in the disaster-response

• LASP’s Hurricane Ida page with local, state and U.S. resources: https://www.lasp.org/hurricane-ida

landscape when there is a lack of a coordinated effort to deal with the legal needs of disaster survivors. Most emergency management and disaster-response organizations are 9

WINTER 2021

feature

TH E

R ED M A S S By Chris Serpico

On October 5th members of the Bucks County Bar joined

The origin of the Red Mass can be traced to Europe in the

together to celebrate the first-ever Red Mass held in Bucks

Middle Ages when it was traditionally held to coincide with the

County. At the invitation of Father Matthew Guckin, Pastor of

start of the legal year. The term “Red Mass” was derived from

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Doylestown, approxi-

the red vestments traditionally worn as a symbol of the tongues

mately one hundred and fifty people gathered together at 5:00

of fire attributed to the Holy Spirit that descended upon the

PM to pray for the gifts of understanding, counsel and fortitude

Apostles at Pentecost. The first Red Mass was celebrated in

in the dispensing of justice in the courtrooms of Bucks County.

the Cathedral of Paris in 1245. From there, it spread to most European countries. The tradition began in England around

Although the Mass was held in a Catholic Church, its purpose

1310, during the reign of Edward II. Today the Red Mass is

was ecumenical in that it was intended to appeal to people of

celebrated annually at Westminster Cathedral.

all faiths and religions. BCBA’s President Sean Gresh worked closely with Father Guckin in promoting the Mass and setting

As the newly installed Pastor of Doylestown’s oldest Catholic

the groundwork for what is intended to become an annual

Church, Father Guckin thought it appropriate inasmuch as his

tradition. In a podcast that was aired a week prior to the

parish sits in the “County Seat” for him to try and institute the

Mass, Gresh said, “Something we should all strive for is justice

Red Mass here in Bucks County. He was able to prevail upon

for the idea of justice’s sake. Regardless of how we worship,

his longtime friend, Bishop Michael Fitzgerald, to travel to

or who we worship, we can all agree that justice and mercy

Doylestown for the evening to serve as the principal celebrant

are principals that not only are of value to us as lawyers,

and homilist. As a recognized expert in canon law, and one

but to society as a whole.” Father Guckin added that “we

of the few priests in the Philadelphia archdiocese with a law

celebrate the Red Mass to join in prayer for a more just and

degree, Bishop Fitzgerald is uniquely qualified to speak on

merciful society.”

matters related to law and justice, and his homily called upon all lawyers to understand and appreciate the gifts they have

The Red Mass has a long and storied history in the Roman

been given by God and to use those gifts in a way that will

Catholic Church. It’s a Mass celebrated annually for all members

promote justice.

of the legal profession, regardless of religious affiliation. Traditionally, lay persons from the community gather with judges,

On a personal note, as a thirty-five-year member of Mount

lawyers, and government officials to request guidance from the

Carmel, and a regular cantor at Sunday Mass, I was particularly

Holy Spirit for all who seek justice. It is a time for those in the

honored to have been asked to lead the congregation in song

legal profession to contemplate the power and responsibility of

at the Mass, and I selected psalms and hymns that I thought

all those involved in the legal profession.

would fit with the theme of the service.

The timing of the Red Mass in the United States is always

All those that I spoke with after the service agreed that the

scheduled for the Sunday before the first Monday in October

idea to institute the Red Mass in Bucks County was a good

which marks the official opening of the Supreme Court’s

one, and there was a consensus that it should become an

yearly term. (Our Mass was held one day later, on the day the

annual event. It is hoped that over time, more members

Supreme Courts convened). Even though the Mass is held

of the legal community as well as the community at large

at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle in Washington,

will become aware of the Red Mass and participate in it for

D.C., it is attended by people of all religious faiths, including

years to come. 

Supreme Court Justices, members of Congress, the Cabinet and other government departments, including the President on certain occasions. 11

WINTER 2021

BCBA events

BCBA

WOMEN’S SUMMIT

A MINUTE WITH THE FOUNDATION’S NEW TRUSTEE Sarah Ryan

Tell us about your career.

time with family and friends. Recently, we started keeping

I am the Director of Marketing & Business Development at

bees, which has been an exciting and sometimes painful

Stark & Stark. With a full range of legal services at Stark &

learning experience for us.

Stark, my days are never the same. I am lucky enough to

Advice to lawyers?

serve the Bucks County Bar Foundation as a Trustee, and I look forward to engaging with our community. Also, during my 1,000-hour work week, I serve the Legal Marketing

As a marketing professional, I have to say, Business Development and Marketing are not the same; you really need a healthy balance of the two. You will always benefit

Association as the CMO Sig Co-Chair. We focus our efforts

from having a plan, writing it down, setting goals, and

on bringing education to fellow legal marketers.

sticking to them. If you’re not good at this, set assigned

When you were younger, what did you want to be?

time aside on your calendar to dedicate to developing

A lawyer! How funny that I’ve ended up doing what I love

business. Additionally, ask your clients for feedback. You

for a law firm.

can learn so much by listening! Lastly, if you have a team of professionals working for you, work as a team. You will

What do you like to do in your spare time?

always see more engagement, ideas, and support when

When I am not coaching lawyers, I spend my time with my

people feel included, supported, and valued. 

family in Bucks County. My husband Steve and I have a daughter, Charlotte, who is five years old, and a son, Carter, three, and two dogs. We love spending time at the lake and doing anything outdoors. We enjoy traveling and spending 13

WINTER 2021

feature

BENCH BAR IS OFFICIALLY BACK! By Melanie Wender

2020 was an extremely tough year for all of us. Events

it, the teams with the three highest scores were awarded

were cancelled, postponed, virtual, or transferred to

prizes. However, for third place, there was a tie and the

outdoor venues. While the events that we had in 2020

only solution was an epic three-round game of Paper, Rock,

were enjoyed by many, we all missed the traditional

Scissors. I’m sure you can guess who won (hint: it was the

events and being together. When 2021 rolled around,

person writing this article).

uncertainty remained as to whether any of the Bar Associ-

The next day brought the highlight of the whole

ation’s traditional events could be “normal.” With that

conference, the plenary session. This year’s speaker was Jan

uncertainty, questions circulated around whether we

Hargraves, a body language expert. She was completely

would be able to have our traditional annual Bench Bar

enthralling, interesting and educational. She even got our

Conference, which is the hallmark event of every year.

Bar Association’s treasurer, Mr. Larry Sheetz, involved in the

Fortunately, as 2021 continued, it became more and more

presentation.

likely that the conference was actually going to happen. Then, on September 23, 2021, 140 registrants drove out to

From there, the next few hours were broken into smaller

Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg, NJ for the 2021 Bench

CLEs sections. The Orphans Court Section provided a very

Bar Conference!

interesting CLE regarding the conservatorship surrounding Brittney Spears. Have you ever wanted to see Judge Gilman

The conference started with CLEs from USI Affinity,

attempt to impersonate Kevin Federline? This CLE was your

PNC Private Banking, and the traditional Young Lawyers

opportunity. Also included were CLEs regarding current

Division (“YLD”) CLE. This year, YLD’s CLE was quizzo

issues happening in business law, family law, civil law and

and it provided the opportunity to learn some interesting

criminal law, as well as a very interesting and topical CLE

facts about the judges on our bench. For example, did

presented by the Women’s Law Division and the Diversity

you know Judge Bowman played rugby? At the end of 14

Section. On the whole, the CLEs were truly exceptional and

WE LISTEN, WE CARE, WE GET RESULTS

the credit is owed to all of the presenters. This year’s Bench Bar Conference was exciting in many ways, but primarily with regard to all of the new faces and sponsors. Fourteen law clerks attended this year’s conference, which was amazing. The law clerks were able to attend as a result of scholarships that are available through the sections and divisions of the Bar Association and it was wonderful having these new faces there. This year’s conference brought in many new sponsors, resulting in a total of 49 sponsors! The best news is that for the Bar Association, this conference was not a financial bust, but a financial win and money was actually earned from the event! At such an uncertain time, I am incredibly happy that this event left the Bar Association in a better place. Additionally, this year’s conference also managed to raise a total of $9,650.25 for the Bucks County Bar Foundation! Thanks to Jessica Pritchard’s courage to go down the water slide, she started a “slide” of donations. The donations kept coming when cash was awarded to the winners of different golf prizes. Many of those recipients generously

Family Law • Criminal Defense DUI/DWI • Unemployment Compensation

donated those funds to the Foundation. Hopefully these fundraising efforts for the Foundation will continue into future Bench Bars!

Integrity Compassion Knowledge Results

The whole event ended with an epic Breakfast with the Bench. A huge thank you goes to all of the judges who participated in that panel. The panel itself was a great

SERVING BUCKS & MONTGOMERY COUNTIES

opportunity to ask questions of the judges and learn.

Doylestown • Langhorne • Colmar

Additionally, the law clerks were given the opportunity to

PHONE: 215-348-9500

ask all of us questions, which is an exciting opportunity.

100 East Court Street Doylestown, PA 18901

In the end, it was a very successful conference, both educational and great fun. I’m sure that the success of this

www.RepkoLaw.com

year’s conference will result in an even better conference next year, when we head back to the beloved Hershey Hotel. With Elaine Yandrisevits as next year’s chair of the

Bench Bar committee, I have no doubt that next year will be incredible.  15

REPKO LAW LAW, LLC

WINTER 2021 ISSUE: 2109 2102 2106 ORG/PUB: Bucks MagazineName Writs

community

Pro Bono Honor Roll

I Dean Ibrahim K

July 1 Through September 30, 2021

Morris J. Kaplan Robert Katzenstein Aimee Keightly Barbara Kirk Gretchen S. Kolb Michael Ksiazek

THANK YOU for volunteering your valuable time to provide high quality legal representation to Bucks County residents. Your efforts help bring justice for all. Favorable outcomes included obtaining final Protection from Abuse (PFA) orders for victims of domestic violence, preparing wills for senior citizens, obtaining bankruptcies and expungements to give someone a second chance, and so much more. Thank you, too, to those who provided financial assistance through donations and arbitration allowances. Your contributions allow Legal Aid of Southeastern PA to assist more local residents.

L Gregory G. Lawton Larry H. Lefkowitz

— Megan Reinprecht, LASP Staff Attorney & Pro Bono Coordinator

A Hugh Algeo IV Judith A. Algeo Maureen Anderson Erin Aronson B Cynthia Bashore Mitchell Baylarian John Benson William J. Benz Clifford Bidlingmaier Joseph Blackburn Gerald L. Bowen, Jr. H. Jeffrey Brahin Christopher J. Brill D. Keith Brown Sarah Brucie C Dale E. Caya Jahn Chesnov Julius J. Ciesielka, Jr. Ernest Closser John F. Cordisco Jennifer Courtney Christopher Coval D Henry Dantzig

M William MacMinn Christopher Mahoney Nicholas Mancini Russell J. Manning Jill Manuel-Coughlin Joseph Marinaro Tina Mazaheri Marybeth McCabe Megan McDonald Michael Meginniss Diane Mellott Barbara R. Merlie Kristine Michael Gregory Mitsch William Moore Joanne Murray

E Susan Levy Eisenberg Mindey Elgart F Dawn Farrell Adam Fein Todd Felzer Jacqueline Fishman Elizabeth Wood Fritsch G Richard P. Gennetti Mitchell Gerson Martin Ghen Terry Goldberg Joshua Z. Goldblum Jennifer Gould Sean Gresh Gregory E. Grim Mary Ann Grossman Kyong Ha Growney

N Breandan Nemec Brooke Newborn P William Penglase Thomas J. Profy IV Hayley Purcell

David Hamilton Kevin Hand Virginia Hardwick Nancy Harrold Judith Hayman Gregory S. Hill Eric W. Hopkins

Joseph Ramagli Peter Reiss Alan Rubinson Jennifer Ryan

S Russell P. Sacco Jennifer Sagot Robert Salzer Andrew Schneider Carol Sharp Michael J. Shavel Carol A. Shelly Michael Shelton Linda Shick Chris Little Simcox Theresa Simmons Arlene G. Simolike Fran Smith Jeffrey Solar Amir M. Stark Christopher Staub Gregory Sturn Francis J. Sullivan T Siobhan Timmerman Elizabeth Tomlinson Hon. Jeffrey G. Trauger Jill E. Trayer David Tweer U Karen Ulmer V Jessica VanderKam W Jason R. Weiss Melanie Wender Edward Wild Shari Williams Donald Williford Clair E. Wischusen Jeffrey Wong

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WE ASKED, YOU ANSWERED:

Winter Wellness Activities We asked our members the question “As the weather turns colder this time of year, what “Winter Wellness” activities do you focus on?” The end of the year can be a busy time for many of us. On top of that, the seasons are changing, which can affect your physical and mental health. But you can’t forget to take care of yourself! With shorter days and colder weather on the horizon, it’s important to maintain healthy habits. We would like to know what you do to maintain your physical, mental, social, and emotional health during this time of year. We asked our members the question “As the weather turns colder this time of year, what “Winter Wellness” activities do you focus on?” to get their take on this topic.

Exercise The top answers focused on exercise and other physical activities. There is much literature supporting that physical activity not only improves your physical fitness but also mental wellness through stress relief. The gym. -The Honorable Robert O. Baldi

Walking, weather permitting -Chris Brill, Esq.

Walking -John K. Shaffer, Esq., Law Office of Lester G. Weinraub

I will continue with twice a week Pilates sessions with a private trainer over Skype. And because of Covid and the unavailability of the gym in the community clubhouse, I will increase use of the treadmill installed in my garage. -Carolyn Newsom, Esq.

Exercise! (Peloton rides, runs on the treadmill, etc.) -Maureen B. Carlton, Esq., Curtin & Heefner LLP

Yoga and spin bicycle -Jill M.V. Richter, Esq.

I do same things all year round, including walking outdoors. -Frank Mazzeo, Esq.

Olympic style fencing! -Andrew D. Cotlar, Esq., Law Office of Cotlar & Cotlar

Topgolf. The closest one is in Mt Laurel, NJ but they will be opening one on the Blvd. in Phila. (old Nabisco site). It is fun, I can improve my game, and it makes me soooooooooo happy. -Kim Litzke, Esq., Eastburn & Gray

Winter is the time of year I give my treadmill a workout! The rest of the year, I’d prefer walking or running outside, but I hate cold weather, so it’s down to the basement to the treadmill for me! -Glenn Neiman, Esq., Brilliant & Neiman LLC

I play basketball in a Men's 35 and over league at the Doylestown YMCA. -W. Austin Allen, II, Esq., Law Offices of W. Austin Allen, II, PC

Table Tennis – Newtown Table Tennis Club. -Anon

I walk most mornings and evenings and do yoga once or twice per week. It lowers my stress and improves my mood. -Christina J Corr, Esq.

Proper Sleep Boxing, ax-throwing and car-smashing. -Cynthia Bashore, Esq.

And don’t forget about getting good sleep and eating healthy – especially during the holiday period! I walk on a treadmill 5 miles and just purchased a rower machine. I try to get 8 hours of sleep and take mini vacations when I can! -Susan Levy Eisenberg, Esquire

I swim 1000 yards every day at lunchtime and after five or whenever I get home I do weight training. At least one day on weekends I’ll play singles tennis or go for a 3-mile walk. -Steve Cotlar, Esq.

Healthy Eating Outdoor runs and when cold enough hockey on the outdoor rink. -Jocelin Price, Esq.

I try to maintain healthy eating habits and limit the holiday “goodies” and extra calories. My activities tend to be the same year-round. -Nancy J. Harrold, Esq., Law Offices of Jennifer Courtney, P.C.

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Or comfort food…

My best exercise for mental and physical purposes is usually a 2-to 3-hour workout in the field with my Brittany hunting for gamebirds. I try to do it twice per week minimum. -Christopher B. Chandor, Esq., Doylestown Commerce Center

Eating more carbs. -Jeremy D. Puglia, Esq., Drake, Hileman & Davis

Bourbon over ice, remove the ice. -Rich Moore, Esq.

Walking, walking and walking. Outdoors when possible, and indoors when necessary. -Douglas Praul, Esq.

Guinness -Dan Keane, Esq., Clemons, Richter, & Reiss, PC

Skiing. -Tiffanie C. Benfer, Esq., Hardwick Benfer LLC

Outdoors Tied to the importance of physical activity, many thought it was important to continue to get outside whenever possible.

Take my dog for a 40-minute walk most mornings. -Pamela A VanBlunk, Esq.

It can be tough to get outside, but I try to walk as much as I can, whether its inside or out. Great head clearing activity while exercising as well. -Matthew D. Weintraub, Esq., Bucks County District Attorney 20

Personal Time Away

I have a mantra I start to tell myself starting on December 22. “X days until pitchers and catchers report, x days until the first day of spring, and the days are only getting longer." -Russell Manning, Esq., Ulmer Law

And finally, many of our members focus on time away from work – through vacations, just planning vacations or other shorter-term diversions that allow your mind and body to rest.

Connecting with others…

Sunny vacations, spa treatments, meeting with friends, aromatherapy. – Tina Mazaheri, Esq., Mazaheri Law, LLC

Of course, we cannot forget that social connections are important. Our links to others can have powerful effects on our health and influences our well-being. Dance parties with my toddlers. - Sarah Ryan, Stark and Stark, BCBF Trustee

I pretend plan vacations to warm weather destinations and every once in a while, I get to actually take one. -Laura M. Mercuri, Esq., Duffy North

Calling friends and family on the phone instead of watching TV at night; Cooking meals with my family on the weekends. -Lisa Pettit, Esq.

Hobbies, Games, & Other Mental Diversions Good old board games, Puzzles, One big outdoor activity per weekend - Margarita Hossaini-zadeh, Esq., Bucks County Law Librarian

I connect with friends, keep up with my exercising (rowing machine) and enjoy some time in front of the fireplace! -Caroline A. Edwards, Esq., The Law Offices of Caroline Achey Edwards 

Playing the piano -Eric G. Marttila, Esq.

WINTER 2021

BCBA events Pro Bono Awards & Reception

WINTER 2021

BCBA events Veterans Treatment Graduation

BCBA events Veterans Day 2021

WINTER FALL 2021

BCBA events

BCBA Annual Meeting and Holiday Festivus Reception

WINTER FALL 2021

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BITE OUT OF

CANCER

By Larry Scheetz

On October 17, 2021, the Larry & Cathy Scheetz Lung Cancer Foundation (LC2 Foundation) hosted its Inaugural Take a Bite Out of Cancer 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk at Peace Valley Park in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. The inaugural event was a fantastic success with over 100 participants, volunteers and spectators. The weather was absolutely perfect and the race festivities began at 7:30 a.m. and continued on to a post-race celebration with live music, food, drinks and lots of laughter well into the early evening. The mission of the LC2 Foundation is to raise awareness about the importance of early

detection for all forms of cancer, celebrate survivors and those who lost their lives to cancer, and to raise donations to help local families struggling with the financial burdens associated with fighting this disease. This year’s event certainly accomplished its mission. The words lung scans, mammograms, colonoscopies and prostate exams were mentioned on numerous occasions throughout the day. There were many stories of courageous cancer survivors, several of whom participated in the run/walk, and numerous shared memories of loved ones taken too soon. The generosity and support of so many of the participants, sponsors and members of the Bucks County Bar Association enabled the LC2 Foundation to raise over $30,000.00 for local families. Most importantly, the day was filled with love, laughter and hope for a cancer-free tomorrow. The Larry & Cathy Scheetz Lung Cancer Foundation was

Corporate Office: 949 Easton Road, Warrington, PA 18976 | 215-343-5700 630 Freedom Business Center, Third Floor, King of Prussia, PA 19406 | 610-489-5100 101 Lindenwood Drive, Suite 225, Malvern, PA 19355 | 484-875-3075 105 Raider Boulevard, Suite 206, Hillsborough, NJ 08844 | 908-874-7500

established in honor of Larry & Cathy Scheetz, who both

info@carrollengineering.com www.carrollengineering.com

passed away from lung cancer that could have been 29

WINTER 2021

feature prevented with proper screening and early detection protocols. The Foundation is managed and run by Larry & Cathy Scheetz’s children and seven grandchildren. The pride and love they felt from everyone’s participation, generosity and support cannot be measured and their gratitude is infinite. They are sure that their parents/grandparents were smiling down on the event, especially when the grandchildren held the flag for the National Anthem prior to the start of the race. It was a loving tribute and special day for all. Please consider participating in the event next year, making a donation, and joining the LC2 Foundation’s next event at the Green Parrott in Newtown, Pennsylvania on January 9, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. 

Donations can be made to the LC2 Foundation and sent to 935 Second Street Pike, Richboro, PA 18954 or via PayPal at www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=TEY67NWWMLZBS

“The OPPOSITE of what gives ATTORNEYS a bad name.” In the stack of notes of appreciation I have accumulated over 28 years, none stands out to me as much as the client who said, “You’re the opposite of what gives attorneys a bad name.” What is it about our profession that seems to equate being a zealous advocate with being obnoxious? Knowing that you can refer your personal injury cases to any firm that pays a referral fee, why not look to a firm that will reflect well on your recommendation? For almost three decades, other attorneys and physicians have referred their own family members to me to handle their personal injury claims. You don’t take that kind of trust lightly. JONATHAN J. RUSSELL Having resolved over 1500 personal injury cases, my hope remains to provide the type of legal service which warrants the continued respect and recommendation of fellow professionals. Let me know how I can help you. SuperLawyer 11 years (2011–2021), Plaintiff’s Personal Injury • Member Million Dollar Advocates Forum Offices Located in Doylestown, Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton and Stroudsburg

Jonathan J. Russell, Esq. Drake, Hileman & Davis, PC P.O. Box 1306 Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18901

Phone: 215-348-2088 jrussell@dhdlaw.com www.dhdlaw.com

Providing Quality, Competent and Compassionate Legal Counsel since 1985

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The Writs Winter 2021

Articles inside

• BCBA Annual Meeting and Holiday Festivus Reception

President’s Letter

CLEs

Women’s Summit

From the Editor