Judge Feudale Addresses Annual Banquet

Senior Judge Barry Feudale was the keynote speaker at the 2009 Lycoming Law Association Annual  Banquet.  The speech was the highlight of the evening, that also featured recognition of four LLA members who have recently celebrated 50 years at the Lycoming County Bar.  The evening concluded with an unexpected award for the editor of the LLA Website and the annual pro bono awards.

The banquet, this year held at DiSalvo's 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 70 members and guests. An excellent dinner featuring either Salmon or chicken followed.

Judge Feudale, who has served as a Senior Judge since his retirement from the Northumberland County Bench in 1998, is a top jurist, who leads a somewhat colorful lifestyle.  He briefly discussed his many interests, including flying, motorcycling, sky diving, mountain climbing and rafting.  While engaging in these dangerous activities, he continues to be much in demand as a specially presiding jurist throughout the state.  He has served in 62 of the 67 counties, and in the Commonwealth Court.

From a somewhat wild and unfocused high school student to success - Judge Feudale related his inspiration, gleaned from his father.  The rules, which he has tried to follow are: 1. Work hard, 2. tell the truth, 3. be a man, 4. do what you think is right, and,  5. accept the consequences of your actions.  Judge Feudale credited these rules for his successfully turning around his purposeless early life.

Following Judge Feudale's remarks, the LLA honored its four latest 50 year members, who join four others whose service ranges from 56 to 71 years.  The honorees, William Nichols, James Cendoma, Senior Judge Clinton Smith and C. Max Hall have served Lycoming County for a cumulative total of 204 years.  Each of the honorees received a plaque commemorating their milestone.

Unexpectedly, the editor of this Website, Gary Weber,  was recognized for his service to the Association.  A plaque citing Weber for going "Above & Beyond" was awarded, along with a case of wine.  [Editor's note:  The recognition (and especially the wine) were very much appreciated.]

The evening concluded with the annual pro bono awards.  William Knecht was awarded the first, "The Honorable Thomas Wood Equal Access to Justice Award."  Also recognized were eight law firms for 100% participation in the pro bono referral program and 83 individual Lycoming County attorneys for "fair share" participation in the program.