2010 Annual Banquet

Perciballi Recognized for 50 Years

Awards and recognition were the order of the day at the 2010 Lycoming Law Association Annual Banquet.

It is a rare occasion when two long time Common Pleas Court judges and a sheriff with many years of service retire in the same year.  The Association used the occasion its annual gathering to honor the distinguished service of Judge Kenneth Brown, Judge William Kieser and Sheriff Charles Brewer.

The event also saw the recognition of Henry Perciballi as the Association's latest 50 year member (read more) and Pro Bono service awards (read more).

The banquet, this year held at 33 East in Williamsport, began with an informal reception. LLA members and their guests mingled, while enjoying hors devoirs and cocktails. This year's event was attended by over 100 members and guests. An excellent dinner featuring either salmon or steak followed.

Several speakers reflected on Judge Brown's career with sometimes humorous comments. Former Judge Thomas Raup mentioned the slip of the tongue that had Judge Brown order a criminal to pay "costs of prostitution."

Judge Dudley Anderson put together a package of items which he claimed that Judge Brown would now donate for sale at the annual Lawctoberfest fundraiser.  Judge Anderson elicited the general laugh when he pulled out a bag containing the already tied tie (that Judge Brown slips on quickly after his lunch-time basketball games), the (perhaps not too) stylish boots and the basketball shorts that may be a bit too tight.

On a more serious note, the judge suggested to general agreement that Judge Brown was a man of great temperament.  "Who has ever seen him angry?"

In his response, Judge Brown thanked the bar for the good working relationship with him over the years.  It was "hard ruling against one of you."  He complemented all the judges with whom he served, thanked his long-time staff members and pointed to his wife, Colleen, as the source of his strength.

Judge Brown will continue to serve as a senior judge.

Judge Kieser was somewhat surprised about the attention paid to his retirement.  He modestly requested that Judge Brown's retirement be the focus of the evening.  However, given his nearly 18 years of service before his retirement early last year, the members of the bar chose not to acquiesce to his request.  The judge was praised in remarks by LLA President Collins and presented with a framed print.

Sheriff Brewer was recognized with the Lycoming Law Association Public Service Award.  He served as sheriff for 24 years and was a deputy before that.  Charlie Brewer was honored, not only for his service to the community, but also for his good relationship with the bar over the years.

State Assemblyman Garth Everett concluded the evening with the presentation of citations to Judges Kieser and Brown.  The General Assembly noted the achievements of the judges in the citations.