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Vol. 2023, No. 8 December 2023 |
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Dear Members and Friends of the Hispanic Bar Association of Orange County:
As the seasons change and we embrace the end of a great year, it's an honor to reflect on the incredible journey we've embarked upon this year. Our journey this year has been nothing short of extraordinary. With the theme of "Breaking Barriers" lighting our path, we've harnessed the power of unity, compassion, and shared purpose to achieve remarkable feats. I’m delighted to present our Winter and Holiday Newsletter – a special edition that holds the warmth of the season and the spirit of celebration. This newsletter marks my final communication as your President, and I extend my deepest gratitude for the honor of serving this remarkable community.
Our journey over the past months has been filled with meaningful events. In each challenge we've encountered, we've seen an opportunity for transformation. In every barrier we've faced, we've discovered a path to rise above it. And in every heart that beats within our community, we've found the unwavering resolve to come together, and support one another.
As we reflect on our recent accomplishments and look ahead to what lies before us, let us carry this spirit of unity, empowerment, and shared vision in our hearts.
The Power of Unity:
Our Annual End of Summer Mixer on August 24th exemplified the strength that comes from unity. Affiliate and Affinity Bars came together to celebrate the bonds that unite us. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, Regal Court Reporting, Pacific Lighthouse, and The MOST program, for their unwavering support in making this event possible.
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Honoring History and Leadership:
August 26th marked the Doss v. Bernal Reenactment, organized by the Honorable Thomas A. Delaney, the Honorable Frederick P. Aguirre (Ret.), and Orange County Supervisor, Second District, Vicente Sarmiento. It was an occasion to remember and honor history while recognizing the leaders who've paved the way for progress.
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Giving Back to Our Communities:
Our commitment to community service was showcased through our Backpack drive in August and September. We secured over 75 backpacks with school supplies, which we were able to distribute to students at Robert M. Pyles STEAM Academy in Stanton, CA; Brea Olinda High School in Brea, CA; and Lincoln Elementary School in Santa Ana, CA. These small gestures have a profound impact on the lives of young students.
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Celebrating Excellence: Honoring Justice Thomas A. Delaney at our Annual Judge’s BBQ:
On September 17, 2023 we came together for a memorable afternoon as we celebrated excellence and paid tribute to a distinguished individual who has made a profound impact on our legal world at our Annual Judge’s BBQ. We extend our deepest gratitude to our generous sponsors, Madison Law, Callahan & Blaine, and McCready Law Group, for making this event possible and for their steadfast support of our mission.
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Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month:
September brought with it the vibrant celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. This year, we made history with our first-ever joint event, the "Hispanic Heritage Month Fiesta." We joined hands with the Hispanic National Bar Association (HNBA), Mexican American Bar Association (MABA), Latina Lawyers Bar Association (LLBA), and the Hispanic Bar Association of Inland Empire (HBA-IE). With over 100 registrants from LA to the IE, and everywhere in between, we celebrated our heritage, our culture, and the enduring spirit of unity that defines us. Our sincere appreciation goes to our sponsors: Perez and Perez, Pacific Lighthouse, Costa Vista Chiropractic, FCA, LawWorks, and Gemini.
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Judge Frances Munoz Memorial Lecture & Celebration - October 12, 2023:
On October 12, 2023, we came together for the Judge Frances Munoz Memorial Lecture & Celebration, to celebrate a remarkable soul—Judge Frances Munoz, a true trailblazer in the legal field. This event wasn't merely a gathering; it was a testament to our collective strength and shared appreciation for those who pave the way. In honoring Judge Munoz, we united in recognizing her contributions, breaking barriers in the legal field, and fostering unity among us. The lecture served not only as a tribute to her legacy but also as a reminder of the transformative power of unity within our legal community.
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Dia de los Muertos Mixer- November 2, 2023:
We embraced the rich cultural celebration of Dia de los Muertos at our Mixer. We didn't just celebrate a cultural tradition; we came together to embrace the diverse threads that weave us into a vibrant community. This celebration of life and legacy became a moment of unity. A special thanks to our wonderful sponsors: Pacific Lighthouse and Fontes Law Group.
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Holiday Party and Toy Drive - December 14, 2023:
We saw joy and goodwill as we hosted our Holiday Party and Toy Drive, spreading cheer to those who needed it most. This year, our Toy Drive benefited Laura’s House. A huge thank you to our event sponsors: Your DUI Solutions, Pacific Lighthouse and Array. In addition to the toys received & generous sponsorships, Ayala Chirino, LLP also graciously donated $1,500 to the cause. We gathered not only to share laughter and festivities but to spread cheer to the hearts that needed it most.
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At our Holiday Party, we also announced the election results for our new board of directors for 2024. I'm thrilled to announce our newly elected board members who will usher in the next chapter of the Hispanic Bar Association. Congratulations to:
Shelly Aronson, Incoming President
Frank Chirino, President-Elect
Laura Hassan, Vice President
Patricia Santamaria, CFO
Catherine Navarro, Secretary
New Board of Directors:
Elizabeth Alamillo
Miguel Alvarez
Adrian L. Canzoneri
Jennifer Corona
Christopher Hernandez
Gardenia Montero
Maria Elena Parada
Griselda Rodriguez
Camilo Romero
Manohar Sukumar
Returning Board of Directors:
Angela Chavez
Crystal de Aenlle-Fernandez
Melissa Padilla
Alejandro Ruiz
Violeta Schultz
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Save the Dates:
As we anticipate the turning of the year, save the date for our 46th Annual Gala Scholarship Fundraiser and Installation Dinner on March 2, 2024, at the Irvine Marriott. It promises to be an evening filled with joy and purpose, with sponsorship opportunities available.
For those seeking adventure, our 2024 Memorial Weekend Travel Seminar to the Panamanian Jungle on May 23-27, 2024, is filling up fast. Join us for an unforgettable journey of exploration and connection.
Click here for more info!
In closing, I extend my heartfelt thanks for allowing me to serve as your president. I have full confidence in the capable hands of our incoming president, Shelly Aronson, as she sets to begin her tenure in the new year. As this year comes to an end, I wish each of you, warmth, joy, and the company of loved ones.
Happy holidays.
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