I would like to thank our Website Committee (Michelle Carter, Sherrie Farrell, and Diane Hutcherson) for their incredible work in getting this website up and running in such a short time period. Michelle’s leadership of this Committee has been nothing short of spectacular, and she and the rest of the Committee deserve all of the credit for what you see here. Thank you Ladies!

During this Holiday Season, we all have much to reflect upon and be thankful for. Unfortunately, there are many who do not have as much to celebrate. We need to remember at this time those who are in our military serving their country while separated from their loved ones, those who have recently lost their jobs or their homes, possibly for reasons not their own, and we need to remember those who lack many of the basic necessities we may take for granted. 

Most importantly, we need to remember and, whenever possible, support our most vulnerable citizens, our children. That is why the WBA is proud to have joined with the Young Lawyers of the State Bar of Michigan (through the efforts of Board Member Brandy Robinson) with their Back to School BBQ in August at the Detroit Rescue Mission (where we provided over 100 low-income or homeless children with a good meal, fun, games, and a back-pack stuffed with school supplies.). 

The WBA is pleased be a continuing annual financial sponsor of the Adopt-A-Child Christmas Program through the active work of Board Member Judge Craig Strong (Wayne County Circuit Court). We also have designated again, through the efforts of Immediate Past President Diane Hutcherson, the Children’s Center as our holiday charity for the WBA’s Annual Holiday Party. In lieu of an admission fee to the Holiday Party, we are asking everyone to make a minimum $50 donation to this wonderful organization. 

Please mark your calendars for the Wolverine Bar Foundation’s Annual Barristers’ Ball on March 22, 2008 at the Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center. Board Member Sherry O’Neal and Barristers’ Ball Committee Co-Chair Khalilah Spencer have planned an evening you will not forget. Proceeds for this black-tie affair benefit our 501(c)(3) scholarship programs for law students. 

As you will see, we are a dynamic organization, and we plan to only get better with time. Our bar association has planned so many wonderful programs, events, and activities for you over the course of this Bar Year. I encourage you to come back periodically and see how we can serve you and moreover, how you can help contribute to our success. 

Finally, during this Holiday Season, while we are celebrating, going to numerous parties, and being festive, please remember to watch your alcohol intake and to wear your seatbelt. If necessary, please take a cab or appoint a designated driver. We want each and every one of you alive and well to enjoy 2008 with us. It is going to be a great year!

Thank You,

David B. Cade

President (2007-2008 Bar Year)