by Lei Lei Wang Ekvall
In Orange County Lawyer’s April 2011 issue, I noted that I had “never seen a group of happier lawyers and judges” than at last year’s Judge Kenneth Lae Charity Golf Tournament. Yet despite all the hype it had to live up to, I can happily say that this year’s event—once again held on Pelican Hill’s immaculate coastal links—did not disappoint.
From the kilt-clad bagpiper who greeted golfers as they made their way from the valet to registration, to warm-ups on the driving range and the cleverly designed putting contest, from the tournament’s exciting shotgun start to a lively reception complete with raffle prizes and accolades for the day’s top scorers, the 27th Annual Judge Kenneth Lae Charity Golf Tournament was leaps and bounds above par.
Our utmost appreciation goes out to our event sponsors for their generosity, our Committee Chairs and members who graciously volunteered their time and energy to ensure a successful event, and all of the participants—without whom the Charitable Fund’s efforts would be for naught. Whether or not you were able to partake in the festivities this year, we look forward to seeing you on the course for what promises to be another hole-in-one event in 2012.
Of course, you needn’t wait until next year to enjoy a fabulous event while supporting the OCBA Charitable Fund’s mission of providing resources to support law-related charities and programs and enhance the legal system while promoting equal justice for all. On Saturday, September 24, 2011, the OCBA Charitable Fund will host its 23rd Annual Fall Fundraiser at the Marconi Automotive Museum in Tustin. In keeping with the event’s totally awesome 1980s theme, attendees will enjoy a live performance of the era’s hits courtesy of The Neon Nation, ’80s games, gourmet food, a raffle, and much more!
While ’80s attire is optional, prizes will be awarded for the most radical outfits—so I encourage you to bust out your best retro ensemble and accessories along with your dance moves, because we’re going to Rock This Town.
A tip of the hat (or headband) is most certainly due to our Event Co-Chairs, Nikki Miliband and Solange Ritchie, as well as the entire Fall Fundraiser Committee for all their hard work putting together what promises to be a fun and memorable evening for all.
Yet enjoying a unique blast from the past while networking with our colleagues from the Bench and Bar is secondary to the OCBA Charitable Fund Annual Fall Fundraiser’s true purpose: raising much-needed funds to support our local law-related charities and programs. To date, the OCBA Charitable Fund has donated $85,000 in 2011—and that’s just the beginning. We also recently launched a scholarship program to benefit students pursuing their Juris Doctorate as another way to give back to the legal community. But, as the saying goes, it truly takes a village. We can only succeed in this worthy cause with the enthusiastic participation of our valued OCBA membership. Whether or not you’ve opened your hearts and wallets to the OCBA Charitable Fund in the past, I assure you that you won’t regret getting involved now. Sponsors, volunteers, attendees . . . all participants will make a lasting impact—and enjoy a fun and festive evening while doing so. Embrace your inner glam rock star, channel the fashion sense of Madonna/Michael Jackson/The Go-Go’s/Boy George/[insert your favorite ’80s icon here], and come out to the Marconi Automotive Museum September 24 for a totally awesome time.