think big!
2009-2010: Issue 4
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
Greetings
Congratulations to Region 7’s
Newly Certified Members 1 chapters all around. NALS of Greater Seattle held their kickoff event at Safeco
Special Entertainment Report 2
7 Questions for
Marion Squibb, PLS
NALSof Portland Carnival
Welcome New Members!
NALS Dues Waiver
NALS of Greater Seattle
Membership Drive
Save the Date
Member Snapshots
NALS Education Conference and
National Forum Recap 11
Upcoming events
Brynne Williamson, Certified PP, PLS
NALS Region 7 Director
c/o Graham & Dunn PC
Pier 70
2801 Alaskan Way ~ Suite 300
Seattle, WA 98121-1128
206.340.9590
region7@nals.org
bwilliamson@grahamdunn.com
NALS Region 7 is on the
NALS Community!
Join us at:
http://nalsnet.ning.com/gr
oup/nalsregion7
November 2009
NALS Region 7 News
Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming
Greetings Region 7 Members!
Oh my goodness! There is a lot going on with NALS and with Region 7! NALS of
Anchorage hosted its “Nuts & Bolts of Grammar” seminar and NALS of Portland
1
put on a membership “Carnival,” an event that is sure to be the envy of NALS
Field, enjoying a Mariner’s game, and IDALS converged on Coeur d’Alene for a
weekend of education, networking and fun! Those are just a few of the many
3 events hosted by Region 7 chapters.
5
6 We also had a fantastic showing of Region 7 members in Irvine. And I am thrilled
6 to report that at our Region 7 meeting, the members in attendance voted
unanimously to donate $750 to the NALS Foundation for sponsoring the Keynote
7 Speaker in Branson, Missouri next Fall.
8
9 I’m also excited to report to you that we have moved up to 2nd place in the Think
Big contest! That’s only one spot away from 1st place! We only have a few
months to go in this campaign, but I know we can do it! Don’t forget, the Region
24
that wins this contest will have their 2010 regional conference welcome reception
paid for and the out-of-state Think Big Team members will be flown out to attend
the conference with the rest of the Region. So get out there and RECRUIT,
RECRUIT, RECRUIT!
Thank you for your continued support of our organization!
~ Brynne Williamson, PP, PLS, NALS Region 7 Director
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR
NEWLY CERTIFIED REGION 7
MEMBERS!
Patricia Kenney, ALS (nonmember WA)
Jenna L. Kent, ALS (ID)
Maureen Delauriea, PLS (AK)
Amy Jean Doran, PLS (WA)
Page 2
Congratulations to the 2009 NALS Purple Glob Awards
People’s Choice Winner, Ann Lang!
Special Entertainment Report by Lissa Flannigan, PLS
Live from the Purple carpet in Irvine, California...it’s the NALS
Foundation Purple Carpet Gala! Okay...not really. By the time
you read this article, this event will have already occurred.
The actresses and actors were in fine form...dressed to the nines
and beyond! As can be seen by the photos, many Foundation
Trustees or NALS Board members were dressed up in costume for
the event.
The evening began with various members dressed up in costume
and walking the “purple” carpet into the event room where they
were met by loads of paparazzi and onlookers. Some of the stars
in attendance were Mae West, Miss Piggy, W.C. Fields, Cruella
DeVille, Tigger, Annette Funicello, Dorothy from the Wizard of
Oz, Lucille Ball, Aretha Franklin, Dolly Pardon, and Elvis.
Emotions were high with the possibility of winning a Purple Glob
award!
The stars worked the room hard...giving interviews, showing off
their fabulous costumes, and taking photographs with audience
members, all with the hopes of winning the infamous Purple Glob
award!
Our MC for the evening, Phyllis Diller, aka Mary Jo Denman, PP,
PLS, started off with a bit of a comedy relief act of her own. I
must say as entertaining as she was, she should keep her day job!
Stars were brought to the stage in groups of threes, introduced
and asked a question or two about their character. Some were
even asked to sing...just ask Brynne Williamson. What a great
voice she has! After all of the stars were interviewed, the stars
were given five additional minutes to work the audience for their
vote and donations to the Foundation.
Region 7 News
While the ballots were being voted, the audience was entertained
by a REAL comedian. For the life of me, I cannot remember his
name (I’m old, what can I say!). He was a retired legal assistant
who gave up his day job to become a comedian...a successful one I
might add! He kept us all laughing with his many jokes about the
legal community, attorneys, judges, etc...
With all the ballots counted, the Stars were asked to walk the stage
one more time before the awards were announced. The time
arrived...drum roll please...and the winners of the Purple Glob
awards were:
• Best Actress – Dee Beardsley, PP, PLS, as Mae West
(sponsored by Region 8)
• Best Actor – Patti Infanti, PP. PLS, as W. C. Fields
(sponsored by Region 8)
• Best Supporting Cast – Region 8
• People’s Choice Award – Ann Lang as Cruella
DeVille (sponsored by Region 7)
• Lifetime Achievement Award – Dee Beardsley, PP,
PLS, Patti Infanti, PP, PLS, & Karen Becker, PP, PLS,
(sponsored by Region 8)
Our own Region 7 Director, Brynne Williamson, PLS, was decked
out as the cutest “Dorothy” from the Wizard of Oz! Check out her
costume! Another Region 7 member, Ann Lang, should have, in my
opinion, taken the Best Actress award for her costume and portrayal
as Cruella DeVille. She played the character to a “T” from the
moment she was suited up til the end of the evening...
I must take this moment to “thank” Region 7 for paying for my
registration to this conference; it was by far one of my most
memorable ones! Mucho gracious!
 Page 3 Region 7 News

7 Questions for Marian Squibb, PLS

By Brynne Williamson, PP, PLS

If you’ve been to any recent NALS, Region 7 or NALS of Washington

meetings, you’ve likely run into NALS of Snohomish County
member, Marian Squibb. Marian has been a member of NALS for 36
years and is always willing to try something new. Whether she’s
creating a profile on Facebook or learning new dance moves,
Marian continues live life to its fullest!
I hope you enjoy learning more about Marian and her pioneering
work as a long-distance assistant.
1. Before you retired, what area of law do you practice? Our attorneys were general practice with only three
attorneys.
2. You and I have talked a little bit about your business. In today’s terms you would be called a “virtual
assistant.” Can you tell me how you came up with the idea for your business? I was planning to leave the
firm, and my husband came up with the idea when we were at a NALS state meeting in Spokane and visited the
Lexitron word processor display unit. He was a big supporter of my NALS involvement.
3. What was a typical day like for you in your office and how did you manage supporting your clients across
the country without email and instant messaging? I had originally hoped to have all attorneys for my clients,
but it didn’t work out that way. I found that many did not like to have files leave their offices. I did have
two or three regular sole practitioners I did work for. I had purchased a telephone dictating machine, so the
attorney could dial the special line and then operate the Dictaphone. It worked quite well most of the time,
but depended, of course, on the ability of the individual to do a good job of dictating. When I first started, I
would dress as though I was going to work at an office, and go downstairs to my virtual office. Then I spent a
lot of time at first trying to figure out what hourly rate I should charge, figuring in the cost of my equipment,
overhead, etc. Some of the first jobs I had were transcribing hearings (like Hewlett Packard, and Snohomish
County meetings. As you can see, my first days didn’t really have a routine. When I got busier, I did hire
help. Then, I moved to an office up on Highway 99 and worked from there for six years. By then, I had one
full time and one part-time employee. The business had developed into doing resumes and small jobs for
walk-in customers. I spent a fair amount of time on the accounting and proofing the work. The business at
that time was not making a profit, so since I didn’t have anything to sell, my personal attorney suggested I
move the business back home and just “play with it”.
4. What were the toughest obstacles you faced running your business? The toughest for me was networking
at the Chambers of Commerce and other groups, but I think I grew from it. I find it difficult to pick out the
toughest obstacles, because I was actually enjoying the experience.
5. What were the biggest perks? I think the biggest perks were the friends I have made, and I at least made
enough money to pay for my memberships in NALS and Snohomish County Women Business Owners’
Association. I wasn’t tied down to an 8 to 5 job, because I was the person who delivered the finished work,
and I was out trying to promote the business.
6. If you could do things all over again, would you choose the same path for yourself? Yes. I have learned so
much from my experience.
7. You won at least one prize at every conference we’ve attended together. How do you explain your
incredible luck? Must be the number of years I have been attending. I didn’t win anything trying to gamble at
the hotel in Las Vegas this summer.
Page 4 Region 7 News
Page 5 Region 7 News

NALS OF PORTLAND (OREGON)

Recruiting Carnival – September 2, 2009
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Cost: $18.00 for dinner

We put on an old fashion schoolhouse type Carnival. We did it with minimal expense. Main cost was food and
the Henna artist.

ATTENDEES We had 15 in attendance. We had 18 sign up.

ATTENDEES:

FOOD:
FOOD Fabulous chicken and ribs, black bean salad, pasta salad, strawberries and watermelon, cookies, chips,
lemonade, water, and soda pop.

Our President, Judy Gehrke PLS, CLA, gave a recruiting and membership speech of about 10 minutes. She explained
our association, its benefits, its members, and its dedication to education.

GAMES:
GAMES

Balloon/dart game.
game Pop a balloon, answer a grammar question correctly, and you win a reusable bag donated by
Legal Northwest. (We had a peg board, we blew balloons up and stuck them through the holes in the peg board.
Stood about 10 feet away and threw darts.)

Fishing game.
game Used a makeshift fishing pole to capture a pink or purple ping pong ball and win a prize. (The
fishing pole was a tree branch with a small container tied and duct taped on the end, you fished around and
brought out a purple or pink ping pong ball and you won a packet of goodies from LNS Court Reporting. There
were other colored ping pong balls and plastic golf balls to make it more difficult.) The prize packets included
clown noses, rubber ducks, note pads, etc.

Wheel of Chance.
Chance You spun the wheel. If you landed on 2, you were out of luck and had to go to the end of the
line and try again. If you landed on 4, you received a piece of candy. If you landed on 1 or 3 you answered
correctly a legal question and won a t-shirt from Naegeli (we have 2 medium, 2 large, and 2 x-large) or a travel
lotion, small candle, or notepad (by Judy Gehrke). (The wheel of chance was made out of foamcord and lines
drawn on it with the numbers. The spinner was also out of formcord and put on with a screw, washers and nuts
dividing it.)

Fortune Teller.
Teller (Beovich Walter and Friend court reporting) Was the wife of a Beovich employee. Oh she was
great. She had a crystal ball and read your fortune. If you life was going to spice up, you received a bag of hot
peppers. If something sweet is going to happen to you, you received a chocolate bar with BWF on it. If you were
going to be coming into a bounty, you received a small bag of tomatoes (my favorite). If you were going to get
some help with your filing, you received a BWF fingernail file. It was just wonderful. (She had place mats,
tablecloths spread around on the table, her crystal ball was a bulb cover with a fake candle inside turned on, and
the vegetables came from their garden and their neighbor’s garden.)

Henna Artist.
Artist Oh my, she was great. Just about everyone received one.

COMMENTS Several people comments to me that they haven’t had such fun in a long time. A couple members
COMMENTS:
said they forgot how much fun they have with our members and will be attending more functions. So, we have a
win-win situation.

OUTCOME:
OUTCOME A new member, members coming back into attendance, and just plain fun with a little education.

COMMENTS Everyone asks us for money all year it was so nice you didn’t. You just invited us to
VENDOR COMMENTS:
attend or donate something we already had.

We had several vendors say that next year they would like to be in charge of a carnival table and man it for
the evening. Love it!

Contact:
Contact Brenda Piplovick, PLS bpiplovick@cvk-law.com
 Page 6 Region 7 News

YOU CAN GET YOUR NATIONAL DUES

Welcome New Region 7 WAIVED!!
Members!
NALS members that sign up five NEW members within
August 2009:
a 12 month period, beginning November 1, 2009, will
Glenna Bishop – NALS of Anchorage
get their national dues waived for the year (this
Connie Crookston – BLSA
excludes state and local dues). The five new
Danielle C. Gauger – LLSA
Jenna L. Kent, ALS – BLSA
memberships must be in the same category of
Jennifer A. Lynn – NALS of Anchorage membership as the waived member, for example if
Jennifer Ronda – NALS of Greater Seattle you are a regular member who pays $98 national
dues then you must sign up five new members in that
September 2009:
same category.
Hillary L. Cosio – Mt. Hood Legal Professionals
Lamia Barrington – NALS of Greater Seattle The new members must report you as their sponsor
Esther M. Booker – NALS of Greater Seattle
when they submit their application to NALS and you
Courtney Burford – NALS of Greater Seattle
must fill out the waiver that COMES IN your renewal
Sharman Loomis – NALS of Greater Seattle
notice when your dues are due. On the waiver form
Nancy Lygren – NALS of Greater Seattle
you will indicate all five NEW members by name that
Kathey Meyer – NALS of Greater Seattle
you sponsored and return it to NALS. As long as
Region
Gigi Grasso-Knight 7 News
– NALS of Kitsap County
everything matches up and all five new members have
Tia M. Hudson, PLS – NALS of Kitsap County
Nikki Tedders – NALS of Mid-Willamette Valley been acquired within a 12-month period, then your
Angela L. Idomir – NALS of Portland national dues will be waived for the year and you will
Robert L. Renk – NALS of Portland only be required to pay your state and local dues,
Melanie A. Morman – North IDALS along with submitting the completed waiver form.
October 2009:
The five individuals you list must again be in your
Diana M. Chin - Lane County LSP
same category of membership and they must have
Sheila Christenson - BLSA
listed you on their application as their sponsor. This
Cynthia Concannon - NALS of Greater Seattle
Mary P. Davis - BLSA Campaign begins November 1, 2009 and will run for
Carol Hastie - Central Oregon Legal Professionals a minimum of two years.
Sabrina Home - NALS of Greater Seattle
Then Pay It Forward, tell the five members you signed
Heidi Hunter - BLSA
up that they too can get the following year’s dues
Shane L. Kangas - NALS of Greater Seattle
Shelly Ossinger - NALS of Greater Seattle
waived if they sign up five new members. Let’s get
Rae Rich - NALS of Pierce County excited about our association and share it with others
Jill Ruud - NALS of Pierce County that can benefit as well!
Karen Y. Sutton - NALS of Kitsap County
Brandi Willett - Central Oregon Legal Professionals
Page 7 Region 7 News

REPORT OF REGION 7 GRANT PROJECT

MEMBERSHIP DRIVE
BASEBALL GAME AT SAFECO
SAFEC O FIELD
IN SEATTLE,
SEA TTLE, WASHINGTON

Name of Chapter:
Chapter NALS of Greater Seattle
Contact Person:
Person President, Kathleen Cusack, PLS
Amount of Grant Received:
Received $140
Project Completion Date:
Date September 29, 2009
Description of Project:
Project Attended a Seattle Mariner’s Game at Safeco Field for our Kick-off
event of the year. We also used this event as a marketing tool/membership drive. Every member
was encouraged to bring a potential new member to the event. We provided the game ticket
and snacks. Potential new members received their game ticket free of charge.
Was Project Successful? Our goal was to bring in new members. We had 6 potential new
members sign up to attend, one being a student member. Unfortunately, the weather was
terrible and only 4 made it to the game. Invitations were sent to two of our technical colleges to
invite students to come as a networking tool. We did have 4 members and guests from NALS of
Pierce County attend and it was a great event to network with other NALS chapters, which
demonstrated to the potential new members how we all work together. We had 42 tickets and
41 tickets were spoken for, so that part was successful. We gave the 2 free tickets to one of our
sponsors, Watkins Reporting. We also had 4 additional sponsors obtain tickets. They are very
supportive of our association and wanted to participate in this event. I was disappointed in the
weather and not having more potential members come. I think in the future, while this was a fun
and great idea, it might be better to hold it in the summer when the weather is better. The
weather kept some people from coming to the game.
Recap of Revenue:
Revenue
Cost of Tickets: $400 (including 2 free tickets)
Total Revenue Received: $372
Think Big Grant: $140
Total Revenue: $112
We did profit on the event with the help of the generous grant. Our goody bags were donated
by Watkins Court Reporters and cookies were donated by Gretchen's Shoebox Express. Both
sponsors are very supportive of our association.
Suggestions if other chapters would like to try this: If you plan to attend a sporting event, do it
in the summer months when the weather is nice or attend an indoor sport. Otherwise, it was a
fun event and good networking to attract new members. Strongly encourage members to bring
potential new members to the event. Consider offering an incentive to members to do so. I did
pay for one ticket myself for a new member and she was so appreciative that I think we might try
that again for another event. Surprise a member with a registration for our next seminar, local or
state meeting, or even a national meeting. Another suggestion from a member that attended this
game was that next time we do something like this we all meet beforehand and go together as
one group instead of meeting at our seats.
Page 8 Region 7 News

Region 7 News
Page 9 Region 7 News

Region 7 News
Page 10 Region 7 News
 Page 11 Region 7 News

RECAP
NALS EDUCATION CONFERENCE
AND NATIONAL FORUM
80 Years of Maximizing Your Potential!
Irvine, California
October 8 – 11, 2009

Just down the road from where it all began in 1929, the Stars gathered in Irvine, California to
celebrate the 80th anniversary of NALS. . . the association for legal professionals. We came from all over
the U.S. including Hawaii and Alaska to bask in the warmth of sunny Southern California. Some of us went
to the beach, toured Hollywood, visited a film studio, ferried to Catalina Island, checked out Disneyland and
Downtown Disney, as well as the San Diego Zoo, and just enjoyed ourselves before settling down to a
conference filled with networking, education, and fun.

Thursday, October 8, 2009

The Thursday morning ethics session titled, “Sense and Sensibility” was presented by Justice
Edward J. Wallin, formerly a Justice of the California Court of Appeals, and now with JAMS, the Resolution
Experts. Justice Wallin discussed the ethics involved in using alternative dispute resolution rather than
seeking resolution in the court system, which can be much more expensive and time-consuming. He
covered ex parte communications, ethical limits on lawyers during negotiations, representing related parties
in mediation, ethical duties of mediators, ethical duties of arbitrators, confidentiality, and settlement
agreements.

The next session Thursday morning titled “Terms of Endearment” focused on Elder Law and was
presented by Judge Kim Hubbard. Judge Hubbard practiced as an attorney for 29 years specializing in
Elder Law for 18 years. She is currently serving as a family law judge. Judge Hubbard discussed abuse of
the elderly in many different forms including physical, sexual, and emotional or psychological abuse,
neglect, financial or material exploitation, and abandonment. She discussed the victims, the abusers, and
what can be done about the situation.

After a break for lunch, conference attendees were able to choose from either the Avery session on
“Business Solutions for Greater Productivity,” or “Criminal Law–CSI: Irvine” presented by Jennifer Contini,
Senior Deputy District Attorney. Ms. Contini focused her discussion on tracing DNA and figuring out how to
find the prime suspect.

The afternoon wrapped up with the eighth annual Swap Meet where regions, states, and chapters
displayed their wares for sale to all NALS’ members.

Friday, October 9, 2009

Welcome/Town Hall Meeting: NALS President, Julie Abernathy, PP, PLS, officially welcomed
everyone to the 58th NALS Education Conference & National Forum. President Julie next shared some
very exciting news for NALS members. Beginning November 1, 2009, and running for a minimum of two
years, any member who signs up five new members in their same class of membership within a twelve
month period will get the national portion of their dues waived for the year. This plan could be called the
“pay it forward” plan in that as we recruit new members we should communicate to that potential new
member that if he or she recruits five new members within the year, she or he will also get their dues paid
the next year. What an awesome plan–free dues for sharing our wonderful association with others
in the legal profession! So start recruiting and take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.
 Page 12 Region 7 News

President Julie then introduced the 2009-10 Board and the staff from the Resource Center (Saundra Bates,
Membership Services Manager; Jennifer King, NALS Executive Assistant; Jay Moore, Communications
Manager; Diana Price, Education/Certification Manager; and Tammy Hailey, CAE, Executive Director.
President Julie also recognized Shirley Tune who holds down the fort while the rest of the staff attends the
conference). A full list of the NALS leadership team can be found at: www.nals.org/aboutnals/committees/

Next, the NALS past presidents in attendance were introduced. These extraordinary women
included:

• 1996-97 Donna Dendy, PP, PLS, CLA from Texas;

• 2000-01 Marie Ringholz, PP, PLS from Georgia;
• 2002-03 September Holmblad, PP, PLS from Minnesota;
• 2005-06 Mary Jo Denman, PP, PLS from Georgia;
• 2006-07 Cathy Hankins, PP, PLS from Ohio; and
• 2008-09 California’s own Dee Beardsley, PP, PLS.

Immediate Past President and Nominations Chair Dee Beardsley then introduced the 2010-11
Board Candidates: Patricia E. Infanti, PP, PLS from Pennsylvania will serve as President; Julie Abernathy,
PP, PLS from Texas will serve as immediate past president; and Faynell Poe, PP, PLS from Texas will
continue as the Foundation Chair. Dee then introduced the candidates for 2010-11:

President-Elect Kathleen R. Amirante, PP, PLS – Michigan

Secretary/Treasurer Rose Carter, PP, PLS, RP – Hawaii

Helene Wood, PP, PLS – Texas

Certification Director Doris Compton, PP, PLS - Arkansas

Karen Kuhn, PP, PLS – Mississippi
Kathy Sieckman, PP, PLS, CLA – Arizona

Education Director Sherri Bowden, PP, PLS – Michigan (not present)

Jeannie Shaw, PP, PLS – Mississippi
Peggy Sullivan, PP, PLS – Missouri

Marketing Director Nancy Harris, PP, PLS – Alabama

Karen McElroy, PP, PLS – Arizona

Membership Director Tina Boone, PLS – Tennessee

Sherri Krawitz, PP, PLS – Missouri (not present)
Marion Stone, PP, PLS – Michigan

Region 1 Director Antoinette Van Schaick, PP, PLS – New York

(not present)

Region 2 Director Rita Ann Gilson, PP, PLS – Pennsylvania

Region 3 Director Barbara A. Stone, PP, PLS – Michigan

(not present)

Region 4 Director Donice Alford, PP, PLS – Tennessee

 Page 13 Region 7 News

Lisa Mitchum, PLS – Georgia (not present)

Deborah Waters, FPR – Florida

Region 5 Director Renee Kleinjan, PLS – Minnesota

Region 6 Director Tina Hurley, PP, PLS – Texas

Reba Peden, PP, PLS – Mississippi

Region 7 Director Brynne Williamson, PP, PLS – Washington

Region 8 Director Karen Becker, PP, PLS – California

Each year three outstanding legal professionals and members of this association are selected as
finalists for the Award of Excellence. The NALS Award of Excellence is the highest award that can be given
to a NALS member. The three Award of Excellence finalists were introduced by President Julie and each
was presented with a plaque:

• Linda K. Adair, PLS - Little Rock, Arkansas

• Catherine A. Hankins, PP, PLS - Columbus, Ohio, and
• Karen McElroy, PP, PLS - Phoenix, Arizona.

The final announcement for this year’s Award of Excellence winner was made at the Recognition Luncheon
on Saturday afternoon.

The next group to be introduced were those who will never be able to attend a NALS conference in
the same capacity again. They are the members who were attending their very first NALS conference and
included Sylvia Bruchman, ALS, Carol Campbell, Constance Gantz, Cheryl Hebert, LeTreese Jones, Laura
Lugten, Brenda Reid, PP, CP, Allison Stack, Margie Stack, PLS, Judy Stephenson, PP, PLS, TSC, and
Margarett Wilson, PLS.

It was announced that the Education Committee “Products Subcommittee” has recently completed a
brand, spanking new ALS mock. It is currently in the last phase of proofreading and finalization. The new
ALS Mock will be available in early November.

The Exhibit Hall was open from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. and members were encouraged to meet and
talk with all the exhibitors and sponsors. This year the exhibitors included Servenow.com/PInow.com;
Deadlines on Demand; One Legal; Cookie Lee Jewelry; Avansic; Delmar, Cengage Learning; Elite Court
Reporting; Avery Dennison; Liberty Mutual; Thomson Reuters; SetDepo; and Legal Directories Publishing
Company.

Foundation Chair, Faynell Poe, PP, PLS provided a Foundation update. Since 1989, the NALS
Foundation has endeavored to ensure that top notch legal services are the norm. It funds quality education
programs for legal professionals working with attorneys and the public to enhance their skills and provide
the latest information on their profession. During the 2008-09 fiscal year the Foundation awarded grants in
excess of $23,000 distributed among all 8 regions, 5 state associations, and 14 chapters. In addition, the
Foundation sponsored the NALS Jett Awards, and funded Keynote speakers for both the National
Education Conference in Norfolk and the Professional Development Conference in Tulsa. The Foundation
also donated over $7,500 to provide new double pane windows for the Resource Center and chairs for the
Learning Center.
 Page 14 Region 7 News

Faynell announced this year the Foundation Trustees anticipate awarding even more funds for
grants to chapters, states, and regions for their education and certification programs. They will continue to
sponsor the NALS Jett Awards and fund nationally acclaimed keynote speakers at both conferences. In
addition they will maintain the NALS Foundation Learning Center.

The Foundation also strives to keep the good of the legal profession in the public eye, emphasizing
a positive image of the profession and the importance of qualified competent legal professionals.

The Foundation Scales of Justice Award is a recognition award designed to recognize persons or
entities in the legal community who improve access to justice, improve the quality of legal services, promote
the legal profession, or support the community where they work and live.

Faynell pointed out that the Foundation programs would not be possible without the support of all
members who contribute through the Circle Donor program and by supporting the silent auction and
sweepstakes events at NALS meetings and at the Region meetings each year. This year again $20 bought
tickets for the Sweepstakes Drawing. Members also had the opportunity to participate in a silent auction
and live auction in the Exhibit Hall

Finally, Faynell reminded everyone that on Saturday evening the Foundation would be hosting the
Purple Carpet Gala with comedian Carey Tobaben providing entertainment after dinner.

President Julie then announced that the 59th NALS Conference and National Forum would be
October 20-24, 2010, at the Chateau on the Lake in Branson, Missouri. The room rate is $119 for double
occupancy and reservations can be made by call 1-888-333-5253, and telling them you are with NALS.
The cutoff date to get the NALS rate is September 21, 2010, unless the block fills up before then, so make
your reservations early.

The Professional Development Conference is scheduled March 11-13, 2010, at the Doubletree
Warren Place in Tulsa. The room rate at the Double Tree is $99 and you can make your reservation by
calling 1-918-495-1000. Again, make sure you tell them you are with NALS. The deadline for the NALS
rate is February 1, 2010.

Another exciting announcement was this year in Tulsa, NALS will be offering a one-day cram
session followed by the opportunity to sit for the exam of your choice. The cram session is scheduled for
March 10, 2010, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at a cost of $99. All three certification exams will be administered on
March 11, 2010.

The Exhibit Hall was officially opened and members enjoyed visiting with exhibitors, looking over
Foundation Auction items and buying their tickets.

Keynote Speaker – Gavin W. Manes, Ph.D.

Dr. Manes is a nationally recognized expert in digital forensics. He is currently the President and
CEO of Avansic, a firm that provides the legal, business, and government sectors with a variety of
professional services, including digital forensics, electronic discovery, and data preservation. His topic–
“Redaction: What you Don’t Know Can Hurt You” provided an overview for handling privileged information
in the context of digital forensics investigations and the electronic discovery process. Dr. Manes discussed
document production, redaction methods and challenges, clawback for privilege issues and solutions, and
the defining and production of metadata.
 Page 15 Region 7 News

The afternoon sessions gave attendees the choice between “Special Needs–Ordinary People,”
presented by Donna Bashaw, Esq. and “Technology–You’ve Got Mail,” presented by Professor Jack
Lerner.

Ms. Bashaw discussed the new legal specialty called Special Needs Law. Although this area of law
overlaps in some areas with Elder Law it is more specialized. The session covered trusts, benefits,
transition planning, promotion of independent living, housing, medical/health care, employment, education,
advocacy/litigation, and capacity/guardianships/conservatorships.

Professor Lerner covered the effects of e-mail in our work and private lives, the redistribution of
what might be a private e-mail, what cybersquatting means, and what clickfarming is. He also provided an
update on the most recent court decisions regarding Internet law.

We finished the day’s activities in the Exhibit Hall with the closing of the Silent Auction and a “live”
auction led by Leslie Keys, PP, PLS, followed by the 80th Anniversary Welcome Party sponsored by Legal
Directories Publishing Company. Legal Directories has been a sponsor of NALS since the 1950s and has
been publishing state legal directories since 1935. They publish 23 state directories and are recognized as
the official directory for eleven state bar associations. Attendees were totally awed by a magnificent video
presentation produced by Jay Moore celebrating the memories of NALS’ first 80 years. President Julie
recognized all life members and past presidents in attendance and officially began the anniversary
celebration with dinner and a DJ for our dancing enjoyment.

Saturday, October 10, 2009

Saturday morning again brought choices for attendees with two legal sessions. “Do the Right Thing”
led by Professor Ronald Rotunda focused on helping legal professionals work through ethical challenges by
providing a helpful decision-making process. “Industry Trends–9 to 5” presented by Judith Finnegan,
provided insight into the future of legal support professionals by following up on the ALA’s predictions
regarding the future of the legal secretary as presented in their 2000 White Paper.

After a short break, Morgan Chu, Esq. presented “Diversity–And Justice for All,” a session aimed at
bringing to light how ethnicity and cultural differences play a role in professional development in the legal
field.

Alternatively, attendees participated in a Focus Group session entitled, “The Economy, the
Changing Law Firm Environment, and the Role of the Modern Legal Professional” led by NALS Past
President Donna Dendy, PP, PLS, CLA. The results of this Focus Group are reported at the end of this
Recap.

At the Recognition Luncheon, President Julie provided an update to the “Think Big” Membership
challenge that began in March 2009 in Tulsa. Each region has 4 team leaders consisting of the regional
director, one membership committee member, one marketing committee member, and a Foundation
trustee. The teams meet monthly to discuss ideas and efforts within their own regions. This campaign will
continue through February 28, 2010, when it will be determined which region surpassed its goal of reaching
a 10 percent net growth The winner will be awarded a reception at their 2010 regional conference and the
team leaders will be assisted with airfare and hotel accommodations so they may join in the celebration at
that region conference. President Julie then introduced the “Think Big” teams and recognized their hard
work of encouraging membership retention and growth.
 Page 16 Region 7 News

President Julie reminded all of us to push membership recruiting and retention within our local
chapters and states and again outlined the exciting new membership incentive. Any member who recruits
five new members in their same class of membership within a 12 month period will have their national dues
waived for the year.

President Julie acknowledged the hard work and dedication and thanked all the Members of NALS
of Orange County who volunteered to make this conference a success. NALS Education Director Doris
Compton, PP, PLS, presented certificates of appreciation to those members who secured speakers or
provided other help to NALS in coordinating this conference:

Caryn Wolchuck, PP, PLS, CPS/CAP

Karen Becker, PP, PLS
Carrie Gagne
Andrea Hughes
Estelle Pete, PLS
Christine Ross
Leslie Wolchuck

President Julie acknowledged members in attendance who received their CLE award this past year:

Talley Brathovd, PP, PLS

Twila Bowersmith, PLS
Theresa Estopare, PP, PLS

NALS Certification Director Kathy Cline, PP, PLS recognized the members in attendance who
received their PLS certification since March 2009–Tanya James, PLS; Lorena Lucas, PLS; and Marion
Sarcuni, PLS. All ALSs, PLSs, and Professional Paralegals were then asked to stand and be recognized.
Kathy continued by asking all exam administrators in the room to stand and be recognized.

Kathy then acknowledged the members in attendance who renewed their PP certification:

Donice Alford, PP, PLS Meri Nelson, PP, PLS, TSC

Karen Becker, PP, PLS
Myra Beckham, PP, PLS
Talley Brathovd, PP, PLS
Marcie Carter, PP, PLS
Rose Carter, PP, PLS
Kathy Cline, PP, PLS
Doris Compton, PP, PLS
Babs DeKeyser, PP, PLS
Theresa Estopare, PP, PLS
Shelley Fintor, PP, PLS
Rita Ann Gilson, PP, PLS
Cynthia Kelly, PP, PLS
Karen Kuhn, PP, PLS
Mary Lenhart, PP, PLS
Karen McElroy, PP, PLS
Tamara Michalak, PP, PLS
Janice Miller, PP, PLS
Faynell Poe, PP, PLS
Jeanne Preston, PP, PLS
Gay Sellers, PP, PLS
Jeanne Shaw, PP, PLS
Mary Smith, PP, PLS
Peggy Sullivan, PP, PLS
Debra Taylor, PP, PLS
Gloria Thomas, PP, PLS
Vicki Van Pelt, PP, PLS
Jane Vande Velden, PP, PLS
Mary Vickers, PP, PLS
Elizabeth Wells, PP, PLS
Theresa Wilson, PP, PLS
Caryn Wolchuck, PP, PLS
Helene Wood, PP, PLS, TSC
 Page 17 Region 7 News

All members in attendance who renewed their PLS certification were acknowledged:

Julie Abernathy, PP, PLS Nancy Harris, PP, PLS

Twila Bowersmith, PLS Lorraine Kane, PLS
Marcie Carter, PP, PLS Mary Lenhart, PP, PLS
Kathy Cline, PP, PLS Karen McElroy, PP, PLS
Vernelle Collins, PP, PLS Jeanne Shaw, PP, PLS
Cindy Combs, PLS Debra Taylor, PP, PLS
Kathy Cusack, PLS Gloria Thomas, PP, PLS
Babs DeKeyser, PP, PLS Loretta Ulmer, PLS
Theresa Estopare, PP, PLS Mary Vickers, PP, PLS
Sandra Gibbons, PLS Caryn Wolchuck, PP, PLS
Jo Yantz, PLS

Kathy remarked that all members who seek the challenge of becoming certified and continue to
learn and grow in their profession by renewing their certifications are truly remarkable and outstanding.

President Julie explained the criteria for the NALS Award of Excellence. She thanked the Award of
Excellence judges, Jeannie Cabel, Alan Friedman, Esq., and Carlos Colorado, Esq. NALS President-Elect
Patricia E. Infanti, PP, PLS joined President Julie at the podium. President Julie then acknowledged all past
Award of Excellence recipients in attendance including:
Jeanne Shaw, PP, PLS Karen Kuhn, PP, PLS
Patricia Infanti, PP, PLS Janice Miller, PP, PLS CPS
Betty Wells, PP, PLS, “TSC Helene Wood, PP, PLS, TSC
Shirley Vanderbeck, PP, PLS, CLS, CLA, CNSA, CM

Finally, the moment we had all been waiting for and amidst table drum rolls, it was announced that
Karen McElroy, PP, PLS, was selected as the 2009 Award of Excellence winner!

President Julie reminded everyone to visit the Foundation during breaks and to attend the
Foundation Closing and sweepstakes drawings at 6 p.m.

After lunch, attendees again had a choice between two sessions. “Bankruptcy–Gone with the Wind”
presented by William Lobel, Esq. covered the state of the general economy with specific emphasis on the
real estate market and the likely changes to the Bankruptcy Code under the Obama administration. The
second session was a Focus Group on “The Lean, Mean, “Green” Machine” conducted by Marie Ringholz,
PP, PLS and Brynne Williamson, PP, PLS. The results of this Focus Group are reported at the end of this
Recap.

The final two sessions of the day again gave members a choice between “Computer Forensics–The
Net” by Matthew Sant, Esq. and “Criminal Law-Traffic” led by Judge David Thompson and Judge Erick
Larsh. Mr. Sant’s session focused on the internet and what data tracks we leave behind and who may be
out there with us. He brought sobering insight into the reality of who or what may be following us. We
learned from Judges Thompson and Larsh that illegal drug use is now estimated to kill someone about
every 30 minutes in the United States. Many of the more than two million people incarcerated in the United
States today have serious drug problems. The criminal justice system has responded by developing
treatment programs as alternatives to incarceration for non-violent drug offenders. The session provided an
overview of both pre-trial and post-trial treatment alternatives, with particular emphasis on collaborative
Drug Treatment Court programs.
 Page 18 Region 7 News

Members then off to their Regional meetings before heading to the closing of the Foundation
sweepstakes drawings.

Members returned for the Foundation Purple Carpet Gala where they were greeted to the rare treat
of mingling with the stars, the likes of which have never been in the same room together before, nor,
fortunately will ever be again. We saw Scarlet O’Hara with that handsome devil Rhett and swooning Aunt
PittyPat. Mae West and W. C. Fields strolled in the room along with Annette Funicello, Auntie Mame,
Carmen Miranda, and Phyllis Diller (in fact Phyllis seemed to be everywhere to the point we thought we
were seeing double at times). Tigger frolicked with Ms. Piggy and they both had to watch out for evil
Cruella De Vil. The two Dorothys had to be especially watchful of their faithful little ToTos with Ms. De Vil
around. The wonderful Lucy Ricardo was on hand, although without the handsome Ricky, who must have
been crooning at the Club. Dolly Parton and Aretha Franklin also joined us on the carpet, although we are
not any closer to knowing the answer to “are they ‘real’ or not” as Dolly was not sharing her secret. The
evening also presented us with a little class with the entrance of Krystal Carrington from Dynasty and the
Queen herself “Queen Elizabeth” all the way from England.1 The evening was awesome and our stars out
did themselves. The event was hosted by the one and only (not really we discovered) Phyllis Diller who
was in rare form with her laughter and biting humor. In the end the Purple Glob awards went to Mae West,
W. C. Fields, Cruella De Vil, and Region 8.

As if we all weren’t holding our stomachs from laughter enough, Comedian Carey Tobaben, a
former paralegal, shared his very humorous insights of the legal profession and what it takes to be able to
work for lawyers. A grand night it was and good time was had by all.

Sunday, October 11, 2009

NALS Foundation Chair, Faynell Poe, PP, PLS, announced that $19,722.05 was raised from
Foundation auctions and sweepstakes drawings, Circle renewals, and star entry fees and star donations
over the weekend.
Faynell then introduced the Closing Keynote speaker, Lisa Marie Platske, President/CEO of Upside
Thinking, Inc., whose presentation, “The Power of Motivation! Increasing Your Sphere of Influence”
provided insights into what motivation can do for us in developing relationships and increasing our ability to
influence others.

For the first time, highlights of this NALS Conference were provided instantly to all members not
able to attend. Many members uploaded pictures to their FaceBook pages as soon as the events
happened. In addition guest blogger Kristina Duncan posted regular comments to Twitter to keep her
followers informed of all a NALS conference has to offer.

Thanks to our NALS of Orange County members, Tammy Hailey, CAE, and our Resource Center
staff who helped us celebrate the NALS 80th Anniversary in Irvine, California, where it all began!
Kathleen Amirante, PP, PLS
2009-2010 NALS Secretary/Treasurer

1
Scarlet O’Hara (Julie Abernathy) Rhett Butler (Reba Peden) Aunt PittyPat (Karen Kuhn) Mae West (Dee
Beardsley W. C. Fields (Patti Infanti), Annette Funicello (Karen Becker), Auntie Mame (Helene Wood),
Carmen Miranda (Faynell Poe), Phyllis Diller (Doris Compton) Tigger (Tina Hurley), Ms. Piggy (Cathy
Hankins) Cruella De Vil (Ann Lang) Two Dorothys (Kathy Cline and Brynne Williamson) Lucy Ricardo
(Tammy Hailey), Dolly Parton (Kathie Amirante) Aretha Franklin (Karen Jackson), Krystal Carrington
(Marion Sarcuni) and “Queen Elizabeth” (Nancy Harris)
 Page 19 Region 7 News

FOCUS GROUP
“The Economy, The Changing Law Firm Environment, and
The Role of the Modern Legal Professional”

Facilitated by: Donna Dendy, PP, PLS, CLA

Assisted By: Mimi Mangrum

The attendees at this focus group discussion were very enthusiastic to share their comments, suggestions,
views, and experiences regarding the topic of the changing law firm environment because of the economy
and the legal professional’s role in the law firm of the future.

The following issues were identified by the attendees:

Question #1: Other than layoffs, how does firm downsizing effect staff?

SMALL FIRM RESPONSE:

• Increased work load without compensation
• More work
• It has made the staff smarter, better and more efficient
• It has effected family relationships
• Decreased flexibility
• No overtime
• On the job training instead of formal training
• Increased billing- more frequent billing
• Sense of guilt/insecurity

MEDIUM FIRM RESPONSE:

• The morale is lower
• Employees are working in unfamiliar areas of law

LARGE FIRM RESPONSE:

• Higher risk of malpractice
• Decreased benefits and perks
• Distrust in administration
• Reduced ability to do work for NALS
• “De-skilling” - doing more word processing instead of “work”

Question #2: What steps are law firms taking, in addition to or other than layoffs, in order to reduce
or cut expenses?

SMALL FIRM RESPONSE:

• Sharing of equipment
• More part time employees/not replacing employees that have been let go
• More email, faxes
• No bonuses or raises
• Less outsourcing - copies, document production
• Recycling of supplies
• Cutting back on CLE days
• Not paying for conferences
 Page 20 Region 7 News

MEDIUM FIRM RESPONSE:

• Float pool
• Less ordering of supplies
• Mandatory retirement

LARGE FIRM RESPONSE:

• Raising benefit contribution amounts
• Less sending employees to meetings, conferences/ using video conferences instead
• Closing and consolidating branches
• Sharing Office Space/flex hours
• Cheaper quality of supplies

Question #3: How does staff cope with and reduced stress in the face of firm downsizing?

SMALL FIRM RESPONSE:

• Vent with co-workers, family and not take it personal
• Socialize less, prescription medicine and anger
• Discussion groups, group lunches, get away from desk
• Actually taking a lunch
• Work together as a team
• Facebook/OnLine Communications

MEDIUM FIRM RESPONSE:

• Using leave time - taking more than before
• Focus on something other than work
• Don’t talk about work at lunch hour

LARGE FIRM RESPONSE:

• Move
• Better treatment of co-workers
• Go to Conferences
• Adhere to work hours - have a life
• Positivity
• EAP - assistance programs
• Outsourcing within firm

Question #4: In light of the downsizing and increased expectations with fewer resources, what
resources/training/services do you need?

SMALL FIRM RESPONSE:

• Webinars
• Additional authority - check signing, etc.
• Training on the latest software
• Uniformity in document production/firm documents
• Updated equipment
• Same equipment in the firm
• Make yourself valuable
 Page 21 Region 7 News

MEDIUM FIRM RESPONSE:

• Lexis and West Law training
• Video Conferencing
• Need help within the firm back (word processors, floaters, team structure)

LARGE FIRM RESPONSE:

• Technology Training
• Access to all programs
• Cross training in practice areas

The information shared during this Focus Group provided some interesting solutions:

Question #5: What does the law firm of the future look like?

5 years out:
• Closures of firms
• Attorneys out of the office - electronic office
• Staff at home
• Voice Recognition Software
• Contract Attorneys
• Virtual Office
• Staff in one office/ Attorneys in another office
• Paperless office
• File site - file email in certain files/scan then file

10 years out:
• Online - outsourcing to virtual paralegals
• Equipment at home
• Technology will change and force firms to do the same

FOCUS GROUP
The Lean, Mean, “Green” Machine

Facilitated By: Marie Ringholz, PP, PLS and Brynne Williamson, PP. PLS
Assisted By: Kathie Amirante, PP, PLS

The attendees at this focus group discussion were very enthusiastic to share their comments, suggestions,
views and experiences regarding the topic of going green. What are we doing or being asked to do to be
more environmentally friendly? What are modern law firms doing to go “green”?

The following topics were discussed during this focus group session by the attendees:

Discussion about what is being done in the workplace

Overview of the legal profession’s involvement in sustainability

Benefits of going green

Questions/challenges
 Page 22 Region 7 News

The information shared during this Focus Group provided some interesting solutions:

Ideas that could make the workplace more environmentally friendly:

Conservation

Recycling

Conserving resources

E-mail documents rather than printing

Give up bottled water, bring own water bottle–have water cooler

Get rid of paper cups and plastic glasses–Use real mugs and glasses

Get rid of Styrofoam cups–use biodegradable cups biodegradable

Double sided filing, asci disks for transcripts in court

Have building maintenance replace fluorescent tubes with eco friendly light bulbs

Use sensors to turn lights off when rooms are not occupied, or to turn off all unnecessary lights by 7
p.m. automatically

Use recycled toilet paper and paper towels

Regulate air conditioning by number of people

Review documents on screen

Go electronic

Use “green” caterers

Use “green” companies to do business with

Choose local sustainable food

Use “green” cleaners that are not toxic

Turn off computer at end of day

Use alternative transportation to travel to and from work

Firm buys bus pass for all those who can get to work on buses

Use park and rides when available, carpool when feasible

What individuals are doing or being asked to do to be more environmentally friendly:

• Light sensors
• Do not turn lights on
• Ride your bike to work
• Use alternative transportation
• Shred Paper
• Get rid of paper and plastic cups
• Write articles for firm newsletters
• Post on website what you are doing to go green so that clients are aware of your efforts – can be
used as a marketing tool
• Going green, print only if necessary
• Recycle file folders, binders,
• E-mail rather than print for review
• Donate or recycle books
• Breakdown boxes for recycling
 Page 23 Region 7 News

What is your biggest question or challenge about going green?

• Concern with cost it takes to implement plan or system

• Getting the attorneys on board to get away from paper–it is their safety net,
• Copying faxes for distribution, e-mail, and printed copy (show them what it actually costs in paper)
• Learning curve–get word out on how to do it
• Finding vendors of recyclable biodegradable supplies in your area
• Space within office to put recycle containers
• Habits and mindset of other employees
• State courts still require paper
• People don’t get it and don’t believe in it–ABA may have a committees, etc, not every attorney is
ABA members–start with yourself and encourage

Does your firm/workplace have an established procedure for its sustainability structure?

• Top 10 Things a Law Office Can Do To Be More Sustainable

• Provide recycling containers at each work station
• Print double-sided
• Review documents on screen
• Go electronic
• Use recycled-content paper
• Use a green caterer
• Green your cleaners
• Turn off your computer at the end of the day
• Take alternative transportation to work
• Consult the Office of Sustainable Development’s Green Tenant Improvement Guide
before your next remodel

Please contact Marie Ringholz, PP, PLS, at ringholzm@mchsi.com for a more detailed description of the
discussion and/or a copy of the PowerPoint presentation.

MAKE YOUR PLANS TODAY TO ATTEND

TULSA 2010!
The NALS Professional Development and Education
Education Conference
 page 24
Region 7 News Region 7 page
News22

Upcoming Events
November 12, 2009 NALS of Pierce County Bosses Emerald Queen Casino, Tacoma,
Night Washington
November 14, 2009 NALS of Greater Seattle, Seattle, Washington
“Technology Day”
November 17, 2009 BLSA Membership Meeting, U.S. Bank Building, Boise, Idaho
“Mediation in Family Law”
November 19, 2009 NALS of Greater Seattle Riddell Williams, Seattle,
Noontime Seminar, “Interpreting Washington
Financial Reports”
December 2, 2009 NALS of Pierce County Holiday Fife City Bar & Grill, Fife,
Social Washington
December 10, 2009 NALS of Portland Holiday Social Old Spaghetti Factory, Portland,
Oregon
January 30, 2010 IDALS Winter Board Meeting & Lewiston, Idaho
Education Conference
January 30, 2010 NALS of Washington Super Gordon, Thomas, Honeywell,
Saturday CLE Tacoma, Washington
March 11-13, 2010 NALS Professional Development Tulsa, Oklahoma
& Education Conference
April 9-10, 2010 NALS of Washington Annual Best Western, Seattle,
Meeting Washington
April 13, 2010 NALS of Greater Seattle Annual TBD
Meeting and Installation of
Officers
April 30-May 2, 2010 IDALS Annual Board Meeting & Boise, Idaho
Education Conference
June 24-26, 2010 “Follow the Yellow Brick Road to Crown Plaza, Seattle,
the Emerald City,” NALS Region Washington
7 Annual Conference
October 21-24, 2010 NALS Education Conference & Branson, Missouri
National Forum
YOU need a Region 7 Think Big T-
Shirt! They are only $10.00!
$10.00
Contact Brynne Williamson for
more details and show your
Region 7 pride today:
bwilliamson@grahamdunn.com