All:

Happy Valentine’s Day. As we celebrate Black History Month, I just want to highlight a few recent developments for February.

1. Sheldon Smith

Congratulations to Sheldon Smith on being elected partner at Nixon Peabody. Now it’s official: http://www.bizjournals.com/buffalo/potmsearch/detail/submission/523941/Sheldon_Smith http://www.buffalonews.com/business/article722990.ece

It is not too often that one of our members becomes a partner at a 700-attorney, international law firm. This is a big deal. Sheldon, your hard work and dedication are an inspiration to all of us. The MBAWNY is very proud of you, your contributions to this organization, and your efforts to increase the diversity of the legal profession. And, as your friend, I could not be more happy for you and your family.

2. University at Buffalo Law School LSAC DiscoverLaw.org Program

It is very important that we continue to spread the word about the University at Buffalo Law School LSAC DiscoverLaw.org Program. Tasha Moore and Jessica Lazarin have done an outstanding job working with representatives from UB Law School and other organizations to make this amazing program a reality. Obviously, we want to get this program off to a great start. The support of our membership is therefore critical. The application deadline is March 16, 2012. Again, please share information with about this program your family, friends, church, and community organizations. For more information, you can send people directly to the site www.law.buffalo.edu/scholarsProgram/home.asp

3. Black History Month Program and Our Next Meeting

On February 15 at 12:00 pm, the Eighth Judicial District will be celebrating Black History Month in the Ceremonial Court Room, 92 Franklin St. with a presentation by Rev. Roderick L. Hennings, Sr. Pastor Zion Dominion Global Ministries. More information is in the attached flyer. The MBAWNY is a co-sponsor and I encourage you all to attend.

Our monthly meeting is February 16 at 12:15 p.m. at Phillips Lytle.

Regards,

Joe