Dear Members:

I am so proud to be President of the Middlesex County Bar Association. My administration follows a long and distinguished line of administrations dedicated to providing you with the support and services that can only be found at a local level. Past administrations have developed programs that have benefited the membership, the court system, and the association. The dedication of members to this organization is demonstrated by the level of commitment displayed by past presidents, past officers, current officers and council members.

The most notable program administered by our Association is the conciliation program. This program was created under the leadership of Past President Martin F. Kane, II. This program is successful because of the work of Attorney Kane and our Executive Director, Diane Verner. Without Diane the Association would not be what it is today. I encourage everyone, to take a moment out of their day and stop by the Association’s office at the Middlesex Superior Court to meet Diane.

As we enter 2010 we face many challenges as a community. The economic realities of the day have created hardship on the court system, our membership, our clients, and our fellow citizens. While many organizations are experiencing a decrease in their membership, we are experiencing an increase in ours. The reason for this increase is the compassion and camaraderie demonstrated by our officers, council members, and general members. Our members are experiencing the same hardships as every other member of the community. Our members are reacting to this crisis by reaching out to help others.

Last year, under the leadership of President Frank Ciano, the Middlesex County Bar Association created an education committee. This committee created opportunities for the membership that had not been available for many years. These educational opportunities will be expanded this year providing value and access to our membership.

This year the Association has created a technology committee and an entertainment committee. These committees will compliment the education committee and provide expanded services, communication, and value to our membership. The experience of the members serving on these committees is a testament to the quality of our members and their dedication to our honorable profession.

This year will be full of challenges. My goal is to build on the work of all the individuals who have served this Association in the past. I am seeking to continue the growth of your Association, provide greater opportunities to our membership, and enhance our commitment to the court system.

Respectfully Submitted,

Lloyd D. Godson, President