Retreat Leads to LLA Plan

Leadership meets at Skytop to discuss organization's future

A first ever Executive Committee planning retreat in January 2011, has resulted in a comprehensive plan for the future of the Lycoming Law Association.  The retreat, at Skytop Lodge, Skytop, Pa., took many months of planning and was the brainstorm of current President Brian Bluth.

The out-of-town retreat was planned to allow the Committee to focus on multiple areas of the organization's operation in a concentrated manner. To assist in this effort, Allegheny County Bar Association Executive Director David Blaner was retained to facilitate the discussions. Blaner, whose ACBA spends approximately $7 million a year in its operations, agreed to serve as facilitator without charge.

Two days of sessions occurred in the Skytop conference center.  The early sessions focused on identifying issues:  issues that "keep you up at night;"  issues that are "impacting you and your members;" and, issues impacting the LLA. 

Attention then turned to a mission statement, so  that the issues could be prioritized.  A mission statement was considered, and subsequently adopted by the Executive Committee.

The organizational structure of the LLA was also a subject of considerable discussion. Issues such as a policy manual, reinvigorating the committees and financial stability of the organization were addressed.

The later sessions focused on the LLA Website and Reporter.  Multiple enhancements to the Website were proposed.  Concerns regarding changes in state law that could impact the Reporter were considered.

Finally, goals were set.  Short term goals included a mission statement, looking at by-law revisions, revisions to the committee structure and implementing a policy manual. Also, on a short term basis, improvements to the Website will be discussed and a plan considered.  Also, enhanced Website content will be solicited.  An additional short term goal is to improve communications with the membership by using a newsletter.  Also, bus trips that may include CLE will be considered.

Long term goals include implementing a mentoring program, with the Young Lawyers Division, and working on relations with new members.  Web content was also a focus of the long term goals as the Website is viewed as an important piece of the LLA operations.  Soliciting sponsorships will be considered.

Not all the time was filled with work.  The attendees had a chance to unwind with a reception the first evening.  Also, the Skytop Lodge deserved its reputation for serving fine food.

The sessions concluded with high hopes, for continued success of the LLA, with new emphasis on member services and collegiality.