Spring 2012 734 N

Justinian Society Newsletter Spring 2012 734 N. Wells, Chicago, IL 60654  Phone 708.338.0760  Fax 708.401.0360  www.justinians.org

JUSTINIAN SOCIETY OFFICERS President's Message Katherine Amari O'Dell By: Katherine A. Amari O’Dell dinner meetings. We would like to thank Sasso President Marketing, Inc. for creating our new website as Gregg A. Garofalo As we end the 90th anniversary of the well as Nina, who now manages and adds to our 1st Vice President Justinian Society website on a daily basis. Frankly, I don’t know Hon. Robert W. Bertucci of Lawyers and what the society would do without her, or what I 2nd Vice President my presidency, I would’ve done if she wasn’t around. Anita DeCarlo want to thank my I also want to extend a thank you to Richard 3rd Vice President fellow officers Caifano, past president and chair of the Mentoring Jessica DePinto and all of our Committee. Due to the Illinois Supreme Court Treasurer members who allowing CLE credits for an organizational-run Frank A. Sommario have made this Mentor/Mentee program, Richard has registered Secretary year successful. The Justinian Society of Lawyers, and the Supreme I especially want Court Commission on Professionalism has ap- EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE to thank immedi- proved the Society’s lawyer-to-lawyer mentoring Honorable Anthony A. Iosco ate past President program. We are hoping to launch our program Cristina Mungai soon as we only need three additional mentees Honorable Cheryl D. Cesario for all of her help to register and pair with our listed mentors. With Honorable Celia Gamrath and guidance as she was always available to Nina’s help, any mentor and/or mentee can log Cindy O'Keefe answer any questions and provide direction onto the Justinian website and complete an online Vincent R. Vidmer throughout my year. application through the Supreme Court Commis- Richard Caifano I also want to thank Judge Celia Gamrath sion on Professionalism’s website. Hopefully, we Mauro Glorioso for appointing me secretary of the society. can begin the program soon, either by the end of Donald J. Storino Jr. She has been a mentor not only in my career, my presidency, or at the beginning of upcoming Cristina Mungai but also as a fellow mother. President Gregg Garofalo’s term. Deanna Cairo I lastly want to thank the editor of the We thank Judge Gloria Coco for chairing the Student Member newsletter, past president, my father, Leonard Installation Dinner! Unfortunately, this will be Amari, for all his assistance in answering the last dinner that she will chair as it is time for NEWSLETTER CONTRIBUTORS every day questions relating to the Society. our younger members as well as our ofﬁ cers to Richard Caldarazzo It was an honor to serve as president of the relieve Judge Coco of her installation duties by Society and I hope you enjoyed this year. creating a committee to plan upcoming Installa- Dominic Candeloro I am proud to announce that, with the tion dinners. With Gloria and Nina’s assistance, Anthony Casaccio assistance of First Vice President Gregg we had over 400 people in attendance to honor Franco Coladipietro Garofalo and our Executive Administrator president of the Illinois State Bar Association, Anthony B. Ferraro Nina Vidmer, this year the Justinian Society John G. Locallo, with our Award of Excellence Robin Iori of Lawyers has come into the 21st Century, and to honor Justice Mary Seminara Schostok, James J. Morici Jr. launching our new website. The website Appellate Court justice of the 2nd District, with Roy Puccini allows members to make reservations for our Helen M. Cerise Award of Recognition. Melissa Taormina dinner meetings, pay annual dues, join the We had a successful October Scholarship dinner Mentor-Mentee program, ﬁ nd a fellow Jus- meeting at the Holiday Inn Merchandise Mart. With tinian lawyer, and view photographs of past ConƟ nued n Page 5 Editor: Staff : Leonard F. Amari Brian Monico Michael F. Bonamarte IV Michael Ori Executive Administrator: Richard B. Caifano Frank A. Perricone Nina Albano Vidmer Associate Editor: Dion U. Davi Michael Pisano Executive Assistant: William J. Davy Gina Rossi Katherine A. Amari Angelina Filippo John Tufano Diana Bosnjak O'dell Carmen Forte Jr. Vincent R. Vidmer

PAGE 1 LettersBy: Katherine to the Amari O'DellEditor Dear Ms. O’Dell: Dear Katherine, Dear Leonard, I certainly appreciated your taking Thank you for publishing the Wonderful newsle er (especially the the me to send the Fall 2011 Jus nian wonderful article written by Tony picture of my grandson, Jack Joseph). Society of Italian Lawyers Newsle er – Romanucci. It is bringing tears to my Remember: "it ain't over l its over". We another stellar edi on. eyes as I think of the many friends who love you and all that you do. Please accept all my best wishes have become my family through the - Richard Caifano for con nued success with your ﬁ ne Jus nians. They are tears of joy, warmth work on this informa ve and well done and love that I have for all Jus nians. publica on. The memories of our monthly mee ngs, - Timothy C. Evans installa on dinners, golf ou ngs, bocce Chief Judge ball tournaments, Columbus Day parades, Circuit Court of Cook County bake oﬀ s at Christmas, etc, for over 40 years will never be forgo en. Thank you, Leonard, for sponsoring me on the recommenda on of Mike Hennessy and Dominic Faraci. - Bruno J. Tassone Richard Caifano and his daughter, Ca e Locallo.

Dear Katherine, Thank you for the Jus nian Newsle er and the good wishes. I am sorry I was unable to a end the dinner as I had an From le , Judge Tim Evans, Re red Chief Jus- appointment I could not reschedule. Best ce Thomas Fitzgerald, and Leonard Amari. of luck in your tenure as president. I am sure you will do a fabulous job (a er all, leadership is in your genes) and I wish Dear Katherine: From le , Judge Jim Holderman, Joseph you the best. Once again, I am grateful for your Bisceglia, Anthony Fornelli and Bruno Tassone. - Judge Grace G. Dickler courtesy in forwarding a copy of the Justinian Society of Italian Lawyers Dear Katherine: Newsle er. I con nue to be impressed Dear Katherine, I would like to thank you and the rest with your ability to produce such a high The last issue was absolutely of the scholarship commi ee once again quality and informa onal brochure. wonderful. Quite possibly deserving of for the scholarship award and dinner last Keep up the good work! the Pulitzer Prize! Buono, Buono, Molto Thursday. As I told Mr. Farace last week, - Edward M. Burke Buono! the award is an immense help to me Alderman, 14th Ward - Sam Tornatore ﬁ nancially and it is always nice to gain recogni on for hard work. I had a great me at the awards dinner, and I know my parents enjoyed themselves as well. I look forward to seeing you at another Jus nian func on soon. - Vince Oppedisano

Dear Katherine: Thank you for your kind note of October 5, 2011, with a copy of the most From le , Franco Coladipietro, Sam Tornatore recent Jus nian Newsle er. It is nice and Anthony Farace. to know wherever I go, the Jus nians From le , Alderman Bob Fiore , Alderman Ed follow. Say hello to Joe and John for me; Burke, and Enrico Mirabelli. tell Len that my son started law school in Valparaiso in August. - Anthony G. Scariano Scariano, Himes & Petrarca, Chtd.

PAGE 2 Letters to the Editor Justinian News

Dear Katherine: Installation Dinner Report I am in receipt of your le er dated By: Vincent R. Vidmer October 5, 2011, regarding the Jus nian Society of Italian Lawyers Newsle er. This year’s an- Please extend my sincerest apprecia on nual Installation to my many friends at the JSL, for and Awards Din- remembering my beau ful Jorgiana in ner proved to be a beautiful event and its newsle er. was again held at the Please take no ce it is comfor ng to magnifi cent Palmer know I have received the support and House Hilton in hear elt sympathies and condolences downtown Chicago. from many friends like you and the JSL Each year’s instal- at this very diffi cult me for my Family. lation dinner has afforded memorable Please know I will always remember moments showcased by distinguished honorees, your kindness and though ulness in the the induction of our Society’s offi cers, and a as “The most interesting man in the world.” future. wonderful feast shared by new and old friends. John’s leadership in the Italian American and - Louis G. Apostol Especially noteworthy was the swearing in of legal communities is enviable. His forward- Exec. Director & General Counsel our new President, Katherine Amari O’Dell thinking agenda as ISBA president is to deliver Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board by retired Supreme Court Justice Hon. Moses the legal community into the 21st century by Harrison. providing accessible technology and promote The night’s celebration was vibrant as more solo practitioners. On a personal note, John is Dear Ms. O’Dell, than 400 attendees celebrated, reminisced and one of my mentors and I learned the ropes of Thanks for sending us the fall networked during cocktail and dinner. In addi- property tax from his vast knowledge of the 2011 edi on of the Jus nian Society tion to President Katherine Amari O’Dell, the subject and generous tutelage. Newsle er, and thanks for your kind following members were sworn respectively Illinois Appellate Court Justice, the Honorable men ons of John Rooney and me and by Rev. Mary Milano: Gregg Garofalo, 1st Mary Seminara Schostok was this year’s recipi- vice president; Judge Robert Bertucci, 2nd vice ent of the Helen M. Cerise award. Judge Schostok our CBA Award, and even the added nice president; Anita DeCarlo, 3rd vice president; is a judge in the 2nd Circuit Appellate Court. She words about us above and beyond the Jessica DePinto, treasurer; and Frank Sommario, currently serves as third vice president of the award. secretary. Illinois Judges Association, and has been active I will show this also to Olivia Clarke Katherine is the daughter of Justinian past with several civic and legal organizations includ- and Patrick Milhizer whom you also President Leonard Amari. The Amari legacy ing the D.A.R.E. program; the Lake County men oned. now extends onward through Katherine and Haven, a homeless women's shelter; Big Broth- includes her unique contributions to the legal ers/Big Sisters of Lake County; the Red Ribbon It’s an honor to be included in your community as not only a distinguished attorney Week at the Lake County Courthouse; and the newsle er. but also a giving mentor, John Marshall Law American Bar Association judicial internship - Jerry Crimmins School alumnus and community leader. She is program. She serves as chair of the Criminal Chicago Daily Law BulleƟ n the loving wife of Jason and caring mother of Law and Probation Committee of the Illinois four-year-old Jason Jr., who were also in at- Supreme Court. She and her husband Michael Dear Katherine: tendance. Katherine’s induction was celebrated have three children. Her daughter, Marisa, a 2L not only by the attendees, but documented in at The John Marshall Law School, delivered a Thank you for your kind le er and the thick ad book fi lled with many letters of heartfelt introduction, followed by her mother the inclusion in the Jus nian Newsle er. felicitation from members of the legal com- who spoke about the importance of family and I very much appreciate being associated munity, politicians, family and friends. Many made us all proud to be Italian-Americans. with your outstanding organiza on. of the Society’s leaders and past presidents were The sense of family and community was very Please give Len a hug for me. in attendance as well judges, Supreme, Appel- apparent as generations of Justinians strolled - Jack D. Franks late and Circuit Court, and various dignitaries around the grand ballroom, including the Am- within the legal and political communities. ari, Locallo, Caifano, DeCarlo, Tornatore and Franks, Gerkin & McKenna, P.C. The evening included bestowing the 2011 other families that share multi-generational Justinian Award of Excellence to John Locallo, membership within the Society. The event’s Leonard, who serves as ISBA president, partner of Amari success can be attributed to hard work by the Congratulations on Katherine & Locallo and Justinian past president (and the offi cers, executive board and other members to becoming President of the Jus nian seventh Italian American to lead this 34,000 the Society. A special thanks to Executive Sec- Society. What a great honor for her and member statewide bar association). John’s retary Nina Albano Vidmer and past President involvement with the Society spans several Judge Gloria Coco. Judge Coco has served as her parents. Wishing you all the best. decades and there is no one more worthy to event chair for many years and again graciously - Jim Moster receive the honor. John is a man of integrity, delivered a fabulous event for all of us to enjoy NewsleƩ er contributor well versed in current events, an accomplished and remember for years to come. and recognized attorney, and a practiced musi- cian. His brother, Joe, correctly introduced him

PAGE 3 Installation Dinner

PAGE 4 Installation Dinner President's Message, conƟ nued from page 1 the help of Past President, Sam Tornatore, and Anthony Farace, the co-chairs of the Justinian Scholarship Committee, we gave out 10 scholarships to needy students to defray the high costs of a law school education. Without the help of our generous donors, such as Steven Phillips, First Vice President Gregg Garofalo, and past President Jim Morici, our Society would not be where it is today. We also had a wonderful time at our February bocce tournament dinner meeting as Sam Tornatore ran the bocce game again this year. Sam, words do not express how thankful the Society is for all of your hard work, leadership and dedication throughout this year. Lastly, I want to thank past president and the Founder of the Children’s Endowment Fund, An- tonio Romanucci, for another successful March dinner meeting as the Children’s Endowment Fund gave a $5,000 grant to SLICE, the Sports Legacy Institute , an organization dedicated to the study, treatment, and prevention of brain trauma in athletes. We had over 60 people in attendance and gave away a pair of two night stays at downtown hotels thanks to Robert Cataldo. I will truly miss being president of this wonderful Society! However, I look forward to assisting Gregg Garofalo in his upcoming year as President. See you all soon and thank you for all of your support during my presidency!

Anyone wishing to share informa on with their fellow Jus nians is encouraged to contact Newsle er Associate Editor Kath- erine Amari at our Jus nian headquarters address: 734 North Wells Street, Chicago, IL 60654; phone (312)255-8550; fax (312)255-8551; [email protected].

Please no fy Nina Albano Vidmer of any address changes by contac ng her at P.O. Box 804; LaGrange, IL 60525-0804; fax (708) 401-0360; e-mail: ninabeana@ ameritech.net.

PAGE 5 Marshall. Lastly, the Gattuso Family Scholarship Scholarship Dinner Report was awarded to Daniel Pellegrino from John Marshall. for all of their hard work throughout the year. Without the generous donors who continue to By: Gina Rossi The Scholarship Committee Co-Chairs, Sam support these young lawyers our society would Tornatore and Anthony Farace, took the stage not be where it is today. While some may see As a former Jus- next to announce the scholarship recipients. these scholarships as simply a means to defray tinian Scholarship They remarked on how far the Justinians have the often daunting costs of a law school educa- recipient, I look come in the last 90 years in providing these tion, we all know that the thousands of dollars forward to the Jus- scholarships and reminded us that the event is refl ect a deeper desire of the scholarship donors tinian Scholarship a celebration of young and old. This year the to further the education and achievements of the Dinner every Oc- Justinians gave away $24,000, with The John most deserving group of recipients year after tober. I remember Marshall Law School matching another $14,000. year. In attendance at this years dinner were how much receiv- All of these awards could not have been given many past scholarship recipients, and it is my ing a scholarship without the support of the generous donors hope that this year’s scholarship recipients will meant to me, al- who yearly devote their pledges to the society’s continue to help our society grow and achieve. lowing me to take scholarship funds. The yearly scholarship dinner is one of the a trip to Peru with my international human The scholarship recipients came from several great traditions of the Justinian Society, and I rights class, and I am always excited to see the Illinois law schools, including The John Marshall think I can speak for everyone when I say that new group of deserving students bestowed with Law School, DePaul, Loyola, Kent, and North- I look forward to welcoming this group of ac- the same honor. This year the dinner was well ern Illinois. All in total, eleven scholarships were complished law students into our profession in attended by past Justinian presidents, current awarded, ranging from $1,500 to $2,500. the years to come. offi cers, and several of the Justinian Society’s Receiving a Justinian Society Scholarship most dedicated members, including John G. were Matthew Panichi Locallo, President of the Illinois State Bar from Northern Illinois, Association; Mark Hassakis, past president of Carlos Vera from Kent, the ISBA; Richard Pellegrino, president of the Christina Mermigas from Italian American Political Coalition; Ronald A. DePaul, and Luke Keller Oppedisano, Mayor of Norridge; Judge Tom and Vince Oppedisano Panichi; and John DeMoss of ISBA Mutual. from John Marshall. The Also present were a number of past Justinian recipient of the Morici- presidents, including Cristina Mungai, Mauro Lobello Family Schol- Glorioso, Lisa Marino, Enrico Mirabelli, An- arship was Christopher tonio Romanucci, Leonard DeFranco, Thomas Cortese from Loyola. Battista, Richard Caldarazzo, Anthony Ferraro, Laura Rose Maglio from Richard Caifano, Leonard Amari, Anthony NIU and Jillian J. Rug- Fornelli and Franco Coladipietro. giero from John Marshall This year the dinner was held at the Merchan- both received a John dise Mart Holiday Inn for the second year, which G. Phillips Memorial again provided a lovely view from its fi fteenth Scholarship. The Richard fl oor ballroom. The evening began with some Pellegrino Family Scholarship remarks by our wonderful and hardworking was awarded to Leonard Cannata Justinian President, Katherine Amari O’Dell. from John Marshall, and the Ga- Katherine graciously thanked all of the schol- rofalo Scholarship was awarded to arship donors and congratulated the recipients Anthony Pavone, also from John

Top photo: The Pavone family.

Above photo: John G. Locallo with Katherine Amari O’Dell.

Photo leŌ : Scholarship recipients with Katherine Amari O’Dell, Sam Tornatore, and Anthony Farace.

PAGE 6 Columbus Day Celebrating Italian Parade Report Heritage Month By: Angelina Filippo By: Katherine Amari O’Dell

A bright and clear, blue sky was a superlative backdrop for the 2011 Columbus Day Parade. The typical parade attendees were there em- bellished with fl ags and colors – green, white and red – saluting Italian heritage. Even the Justinian fl oat was dressed to impress with a new silhouette of the “boot” and some fresh fl ocking. Offi cers and Past Presidents were on hand to escort the fl oat down Columbus Drive. Several children “regulars” were present including representatives from the Marino, Ball-Reed, Garofalo, and Filippo families. All eager to be on display but possibly more eager to munch Judge William Pileggi, President Katherine on the snacks provided by president Katherine Amari O'Dell and Past President Antonio A. Amari O’Dell. A little sugar went a long way Romanicucci that day. Some of the older boys were recruited by Every year, Italians throughout the United our two past presidents currently running for States mark October as the month to honor judicial positions – Celia Gamrath and Lisa their heritage. The purpose of Italian-American Marino. The boys were charged with carrying Heritage Month is not just celebratory, but also the enormous (to them) banners down the parade educational in nature, because it is vital to inform route. With strong will and stubborn minds, they the public of contributions made by Italians and persisted and walked the entire parade without Italian-Americans to our society. wavering. On October 14, 2011, the Circuit Court The smaller children held tight to their seats of Cook County hosted its Italian Heritage as the fl oat started and stopped along the way. Month Courthouse Tour. This endeavor was The snacks were becoming a tactical maneuver co-sponsored by our Justinian Society of Law- to calm and redirect. Past president Antonio yers and the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Romanucci and second vice-president Judge Americans, otherwise known as the JCCIA. The Robert Bertucci sat with the littlest ones at the tour offered the public a sense of the day-to-day front of the fl oat. operations in one of the nation’s largest unifi ed While the wait-time to begin walking bor- court systems. On that morning, the large audi- dered on eternal, the actual walk felt the opposite ence, comprised of 35 students ranging from 5th - swift and infi nitesimal. The parade route was to 8th grades from Johnny Coleman Academy, fi lled with observers from beginning to the very 25 students from Powerhouse High School, and end, improved from prior years’ attendances. other proud Italian-Americans, was treated to a The cool air and warm sun made a perfect day, presentation by four law professionals from the better. Smiles were a mile wide as all parade Italian-American legal community. attendees and participants watched or walked First to address the audience was The Honor- with pride. able William G. Pileggi from the First Municipal Just as we adult members became friends by District Circuit Court of Cook County. Judge virtue of our membership; the Justinians-to-be Pileggi spoke candidly about growing up as a renewed and made new friendships along the fi rst generation Italian American on the west route. With a knowing grin, they said good-bye side of Chicago, about the struggles that Italian to each other hoping and maybe knowing they Americans faced both then and now. He also will see each other again soon. spoke about the positive impact that his Italian heritage has on his life and the importance of appreciating the signifi cance of continuing that legacy. Congratulations to Judge Pileggi’s parents for recently celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary! The Honorable Celia Gam- rath from the Domestic Relations Division followed, speaking about how she was the fi rst in her family to have a formal education. Judge Gamrath also discussed that through her hard work and dedication to the law, by clerking for the appellate court and by working in private practice ConƟ nued on page 8

PAGE 7 Couthouse, conƟ nued from page 7 opportunity to interact with and seek guidance for many years, she was then appointed from some of Chicago’s most successful and to be a judge. Judge Gamrath focused on January Dinner the importance of staying in school and accomplished legal professionals. Without fail, completing homework assignments. like other Justinian event’s I have attended, there I also spoke on behalf of the Justinian was a genuine affection and level of respect Report Society of Lawyers, explaining to the stu- amongst everyone in the room. By: Melissa Taormina dents that staying in school and obtaining For this year’s event, six past presidents good grades will help them choose a career The Justinian and be successful in life. I also emphasized were recognized for their outstanding work that by being involved within the school as a legal professional, specifi cally: John G. Society of Italian- and within the community will help the Spatuzza, Anthony Gregorio, Victor Cacciatore, American Lawyers students achieve self accomplishment and Anthony Fornelli, Vito DeCarlo, and Bernard held its annual Joint pride in themselves. B. Rinella. When President Katherine Amari Chapter Dinner Lastly, Antonio Romanucci, president Meeting on Janu- of the Joint Civic Committee of Italian O’Dell presented Mr. Spatuzza with the award Americans, addressed the audience. He for Practicing Law for over 50 years, Mr. ary 19 at Rosewood discussed the importance for the students Spatuzza addressed the room with: Restaurant in Rose- to contribute to the community. Romanucci “I am so grateful to all of you for honoring me mont. This event, explained that his way of giving back to tonight, though I recognize many of your faces, which is always the community was when he represented well attended by our citizens in the Public Defenders’ Offi ce. there are many of you I have never met.” He also stated that through hard work, he Though Mr. Spatuzza and other Justinian’s of his colleagues from the surrounding collar coun- is now a partner is his law fi rm and now generation may not know some of the younger ties, was again a success this year. President the President of the Joint Civic Committee members, what is important is that men and Amari-O’Dell welcomed our chapter offi cers of Italian Americans. women like Mr. Spatuzza can appreciate how and provided each of them with a bottle of A sincere thank you is due to Judge wine, and a Justinian mug and pin. The Du- Pileggi, Judge Gamrath and Antonio Ro- much us younger Justinian’s look up to them. It manucci for their participation in the Italian is these past presidents that have laid the founda- Page County offi cers in attendance included Heritage Month Courthouse Tour. We had tion for what is now considered one of the most President, Todd Scalzo and Treasurer, Elizabeth a wonderful turnout; the courtroom was prestigious legal societies in Chicago. Pope. The Lake County offi cers in attendance almost fi lled to capacity. Finally, thank The ability of younger generations to learn you to immediate Past President, Cristina Mungai, and our executive administrator, from and emulate the generations of those be- Nina Albano Vidmer, for attending the event fore us, is often the key to a successful future. as well. I am reminded by a famous quote that has long carried little to no meaning for me, “Every generation revolts against its fathers and makes friends with and learns from its grandfathers,” by Lewis Mumford. Past Presidents As always, I was impressed by the continuous dedication, support and attendance of countless Dinner Report past presidents, Justinian offi cers and prominent President Katherine Amari O’Dell with DuPage judges. By: Anthony Casaccio County Jus nians To name a few past presidents in attendance: Hon. Celia Gamrath, Rich Caldarazzo, Antonio included President Joann Fratianni, Immediate Romanucci, Bruno Tassone, Mauro Glorioso, Past President Caryn Barone, Vice President The November Mike Favia, Tom Batista, Cristina Mungai, Evan Winer, and Secretary Joseph Zeit. dinner meeting, Mike Monico, Jack Cerone, Jim Morici and Justinian Offi cers in attendance included First recognizing past Lisa Marino. Vice President Gregg Garofalo, Third Vice Presi- presidents of the All of the current offi cers were in attendance, dent Anita DeCarlo, Treasurer Jessica DePinto, Justinian Society, additionally, several prominent Illinois and Cook and Secretary Frank Sommario. Past presidents was held at Ris- County judges were in attendance: Judge Patrice included Leonard F. Amari, Tom Battista, Lisa torante Al Teatro Ball-Reed, Judge Frank Castiglione, Judge Celia Marino, Cristina Mungai, Len DeFranco, Jim on November 17, Gamrath, Judge Sophia Hall, and Judge Cheryl Morici, Jack Cerone, Bruno Tassone, Michael 2011. With mul- Cesario. Favia, Joe Gagliardo, Joe Bisceglia, Enrico Mira- tiple dining rooms, In addition to the past presidents, offi cers belli, Anthony Ferraro, Sam Tornatore, Anthony outstanding food, and one of Chicago’s most and judges, we had an excellent turnout of what Fornelli, and Jim Allegretti. Also in attendance historic landmark’s (Thalia Hall) just a few fl oors looks to be the next generation of motivated and in numbers were offi cers and members from our above us, I cannot think of a better location. dedicated Justinian members. In attendance were Lake and DuPage chapters – as can be seen by The past presidents dinner exemplifi es why recent law school graduates, young associate some of the photos accompanying this article. I chose to be a part of the Justinian Society. attorneys and various new members. Steven Phillips and his late father, John, were Whether you are a recent law school graduate thanked for their generous contributions to the or an accomplished legal professional with Justinian Scholarship Fund for more than 20 50-plus years of experience, there’s always an ConƟ nued on page 9

PAGE 8 Past Presidents Dinner ConƟ nued from page 8 years. Also in attendance was Tom Jaconetty, deputy assessor of valuation and appeals and his wife Judith, grant writer of the John Marshall Law School Foundation. Retired Judge Frank Orlando attended as a guest of Leonard F. Am- ari. Long time Justinian Society member Lou Cairo was also in attendance with his family. His daughter, Deanna, is our law student executive committee member, and son, Lou, recently Louis Cairo, le , and his law student children, Deanna and completed his ﬁ rst semester at The John Marshall Louis, Jr., far right, with cousins Judith and Tom Jacone y. Re red Judge Frank Orlando and Tony Law School successfully. Fornelli. As always, Rosewood Restaurant provided a wonderful dinner and evening, and it goes without saying that this dinner should be continued for years to come. A great time was had by all.

The Jus nian Society oﬃ cers, from le : Gregg Garofalo, President Katherine Amari O’Dell with Lake County Jus nians. Katherine Amari O’Dell, Frank Sommario, Anita DeCarlo and Jessica DePinto.

Many Past Presidents of the Jus nian Society a ended the dinner, including: Len DeFranco, Tom Ba sta, Sam Tornatore, Anthony Ferraro, Mike Favia, Bruno Tassone, Jack Cerone, Lisa Marino, Katherine Amari O’Dell, Richard Caldarazzo, Leonard Amari, and Joe Bisceglia.

PAGE 9 Bocce Tournament March CEF Report By: Bill Davy By: Michael D. Pisano

The 2012 Annual In March the Bocce Tournament Justinian Society was once again a gathered at Ris- torante Quartino’s great success, that for its annual fund- is, of course, if you raiser for the Chil- were a member of dren’s Endowment Team Romanucci. Fund. This year President Katherine Amari O’Dell with the 1st The tournament the Justinian So- place team, from le : Gabe Romanucci, Dino took place at the ciety was joined Romanucci, Frank Sommario and by members of Mazzini Verde Club Lou Siracusano. in Franklin Park on the Sports Legacy Institute, an orga- February 9, 2012. nization dedicated This being my fi rst experience at the club, to the study, treatment, and prevention of brain and also my fi rst experience on a bocce ball trauma in athletes. A very important part of court, I take great pride in my 2nd Place paper that organization is the Sports Legacy Institute weight that I share with fellow fi rst timers, Community Educators (SLICE). SLICE is Judge Thomas Panichi, his son Matt Panichi, specifi cally dedicated to educating children, and bocce sensation Michael Pisano. With youth coaches, and youth athletic programs Pisano as our guide, Team Panichi quickly of the seriousness of concussions. Consistent with the Children’s Endowment Fund’s mission learned that bocce is a very delicate game that to assist disadvantaged and disabled children merges skill with wits. As the underdog team, in the Chicagoland area, the Justinian Society we found ourselves in the championship match President Katherine Amari O’Dell with the 2nd presented SLICE with the Children’s Endow- by winning four consecutive matches against place team, from le : Hon. Thomas Panichi, ment Fund (CEF) grant. Dr. Len Messner of some very worthy competition. All the while, Michael Pisano, Bill Davy and Ma Panichi. SLICE was present to accept the grant. The the focus was on Team Romanucci, a group of Justinian Society is proud to support a worthy veteran bocce ballers who from the beginning cause and wishes SLICE continued success in its efforts to educate youth athletes and make proved to be the team to beat. Though we were youth sports safer. able to make the match competitive, in the end, SLICE joins the growing list of organizations all of our efforts were not enough to dethrone to receive the CEF grant. The Fund was started the defending champions. by past President Antonio Romanucci and has Congratulations to Dino Romanucci, his son since been able to help various organizations. Gabe Romanucci, Frank A. Sommario, and Lou Last year the CEF provided a grant to the Otis Siracusano, the members of Team Romanucci Wilson Foundation, which is dedicated to pro- on a well-deserved title. With any good fortune, moting physical activity and healthy nutrition for children. In previous years the grant has we will have an opportunity to come face to face helped provide eye glasses to disadvantaged again next year and humbly accept another 2nd youths through the Illinois Eye Institute, and Place paper weight. through the Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer All offi cers were in attendance at this year’s Foundation the Fund provided support to those tournament, Katherine Amari O’Dell, president; Katherine Amari O’Dell and Antonio Romanucci affected by pediatric cancer. Through the CEF, Greg A. Garofalo, 1st vice president; Hon. present Dr. Len Messner with a check from the the Justinian Society continues to help better Robert W. Bertucci, 2nd vice president; Anita Children’s Endowment Fund. our community at large. DeCarlo, 3rd vice president; Jessica DePinto, The food at Quartino’s was, of course, outstanding. Quartino’s family-style dinner was rreasurer and of course Frank A. Sommario, a great way to spend the evening—each table secretary. The tournament was also attended by was as loud as the next. Past presidents Joseph a host of past presidents including, Sam Torna- F. Locallo Jr., Michael Favia, Mauro Glorioso, tore, Christina Mungai, Lisa Marino, Richard Cristina Mungai, Antonio Romanucci, Bruno Caldarazzo, Umberto Davi (3rd Vice President Tassone, Anthony Ferraro, and Jim Morici were Elect of the Illinois State Bar Association), present. It was also great to have new faces Mauro Glorioso, Judge Bruno Tassone, and from The John Marshall Law School Justinian student chapter attend this event and witness Hon. Michael Pope. how the Justinian Society goes beyond the legal This year the bocce tournament began with profession. The Justinian Society offi cers did a fi eld of 8 teams, Team Romanucci, Team an excellent job organizing a fundraising raffl e, Panichi, Team Angelo, Team Cataldo, Team which proved to be a great source of revenue Zamparo, Team Monico and Team Vidmer. and entertainment for the evening. Even for We hope to see you all and more at next year’s those who did not win prizes, the night was event. Thank you to the Mazzini Verde Club for truly one to remember. Overall, the event was John Lag, Joseph F. Locallo, Jr., Kristine Locallo, a great success. being a gracious host for this year’s tournament and Bruno Tassone. and for providing a wonderful dinner.

PAGE 10 to one margin. Of her success, Justinian Election Results President Katherine Amari O’Dell says: By: Leonard F. Amari “Lisa winning, after such great efforts in attempting to ascend to the bench, is a tribute to her tenacity, her genuine warmth AND THE RESULTS ARE IN… and charisma, and her motivating our Our community members and all the constituencies of the was very suc- Italian American community to coalesce cessful in the behind her in her candidacy.” recently con- Regina Scannicchio was also successful cluded primary in the Democratic primary, but without election, espe- opposition (good for her!) in the 14th cially the judi- sub-circuit. cial elections. Also, people who are extensions of our Jus ce Mary Jane Theis photographed with past Presi- For example, Italian American community, supporters dents Leonard Amari, Joseph Gagliardo and Antonio two past Presi- of our agenda, dear friends and Justinian Romanuci. dents were suc- members to some degree, were also successful. cessful, including the wonderful Justice Celia Gamrath Mary Jane Theis for the Illinois Supreme Court; was the top vote getter in the Democratic 8th our pals Jesse Reyes and Terry Lavin for the sub-circuit, out of four candidates, winning by Illinois Appellate Court; Russell Hartigan, unop- a substantial margin. Endorsing our beloved posed for a full circuit court judgeship; Diann past president, the Chicago Tribune said of her: Marsalek winning out over four candidates, “Lawyers and judges gush over the legal abil- county-wide; Lorna Propes, Jessica O’Brien, ity, integrity and commitment of Judge Celia and Andrea Schleifer were also successful in Gamrath, who hears cases in domestic relations. the Democratic primary. She has been active in her Near North Side com- Past President Sam Tornatore won the primary munity, very involved in judicial education and for the DuPage County Board, District 1. Unlike could go on to leadership in the courts. Gamrath, Cook County candidates, he will need our help Judge Regina Scannicchio with Jus ce Themis who was found “highly qualifi ed” by the Chi- in the general election. Karnezis and Debbie DiMaggio. cago Bar, is enthusiastically endorsed.” Celia Of course, let us not forget an individual that says, “Words cannot express my appreciation for our entire community rallied behind, a fi rst timer your support. I am incredibly grateful for your in the political fi rmament, and a gentleman we advice, time, energy, generous contributions will be hearing a lot about for many years to and love this past year. I never could have won come with a bright political future, Michael without your help, and I will never forget the Cabonargi. He was successful in being reelected, promise I made to validate your choice to elect after his appointment, to the three panel-Cook me a Circuit Court Judge. Rest assured, I will County Board of Review. continue to work hard every day to fulfi ll that Congratulations to all of our members, friends promise and serve the people of Cook County of our community, and successful candidates in in the best way I can.” the March 20th primary election. Our beloved Past President Lisa Marino led the ticket against three other candidates in the Democratic primary in the 11th sub-circuit, outdistancing her closest opponent by a two Judge Jesse Reyes and Judge Celia Gamrath.

President Katherine Amari O'Dell, Sam Tornatore, Judge Diann Marsalek and Mauro Glorioso. Lisa Marino and Michael Cabonargi. Vincent Vidmer and Franco Coladipietro.

PAGE 11 Law Student Update Davi Elected ISBA 3rd VP By: Deanna Cairo 2L, The John Marshall Law School

The 2012 Justinian Mentoring Program started by welcoming 13 new students. The program is led by past President Leonard Amari; coordinator Diana Bos- njak; and co-chairs, Lily Strum- wasser and Katie Hegarty. The program also consists of several 2L and 3L mentors who have Umberto and his son Dion Davi, with donated their time to helping new The September 2011 mentees at The John Marshall Law Gregg Garofalo, incoming preseident. law students adapt and succeed in School. They include: Frank Ba aglia, Dana Benede , Louis Cairo, Jennifer Cole e, Patrick Collins, Adam Do- Congratulations to past President Um- law school to follow their aspira- brino, Ken Donat, Michael Donis, Kris n Edmonds, Don- berto Davi, upon his uncontested elections of becoming law students ard Haggins, Andrew Henning, Andrew Holton, Vincent tion to 3rd Vice President of the 34,000 and someday, attorneys. Incopero, Joseph Klocke, Samantha Levin, Adam Long, Michael Manseau, Ma hew O'Malley, Patrick Pa no, member Illinois State Bar Association. Mentors are making names for Benjamin Robinson, Tomasz Sobieraj, John Spellman, Umberto joins a number of previous and themselves in the legal world. Michael Stephenson, Lisa Sterba, Julie Tenuto and Kerri respected past Presidents of the Justinian Alex Norlander, a second year law Wyman. Society to head this wonderful state-wide student, was recently accepted as bar association, in order, the late Larry staff editor of The John Marshall Pusateri, the late Mike Coccia, Leonard Journal of Computer & Information Tech- searching for legal jobs. Those seeking Amari, the late Ralph Gabric, Cheryl nology. Dionte Durham is a member of interns, law clerks, or attorneys, are asked Niro, Joseph Bisceglia, and concluding the Frederick Douglass Moot Court Team. to keep Justinian members in mind and his turn at the helm in June of this year, Currently, Michael E. Hastings, a second check out our website for a listing of John Locallo. year law student and program mentor, is resumes. Also on the agenda to lead this won- in the running for the 2012 state senate As a past mentee, current mentor and on derful and prominent bar association, the election. behalf of program, I would like to thank year immediately preceding Umberto, is The Mentoring Program and its lead- Mr. Amari and Ms. Bosnjak, as well as Rick Felice, past president, like the late ers continue to generate successful law the co-chairs for their dedication. With Ralph Gabric, of the DuPage County Bar students and attorneys. Several of these their help as mentors and role models, I Association. law students and attorneys are devotedly am pleased to report that I had a successful ﬁ rst year at JMLS. More good Below are some edited congratulatory news: every one of the 26 Fall notes from members of our society show- admittees fared very well in their ing the great esteem in which Umberto is ﬁ rst semester. Not one of them was held: unsuccessful and the overall GPA for these newbies was, about, 3.25 (keep in mind that, for the most part, these students were admitted at risk). For the most part, they were admitted because of Mr. Amari and their participation in this program. We will pay it forward, like the Mentors of the Jus nian Society from le : Chris- na Faklis, David Latarski, Rosalee Inendino, Lily others before us, in helping the next Strumwasser, Anthony Ga uso, Alex Norlander, Ka e group get into law school. Hegarty, Kelly Moore and Luke Keller. Umberto and his sons Michael, Evan and Ryan.

PAGE 12 Davi, ConƟ nued Justinian Awarded Purple Heart “Congratulations Umberto on your Rosinia Donation & Bronze Star win, and Mauro for being the gracious On November 21st, 2011, the past Presi- By: Franco A. Coladipietro and classy guy you are.” Jim Allegretti. dents and offi cers of the Justinian Society “Caro Umberto (Calovornese/Sicilia- received the following e-mail communica- tion from the Trustee of our Scholarship On November 18, 1996, Lt. Col. An- no): Congratulations! Very happy for you, thony W. “Jack” Rosinia was awarded the Committee, Sam Tornatore: your family and for us, who are fortunate Bronze Star and Purple Heart in a cer- to have you!” Judge Robert Bertucci. emony at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, Good afternoon all, “Your mother must be very proud, as for meritorious conduct and for injuries I recently concluded a telephone con- sustained in combat during World War are we!” Anthony Fornelli versation with the Arizona attorney for “Congratulations Umberto! You are II. Lt. Col. Rosinia received the Purple Anthony "Jack" Rosinia, who bequeathed Heart for injuries he suffered when the going to make a great ISBA President!” the sum of $25,000.00 to the Justinian bomber he was fl ying in the Pacifi c was John G. Locallo. Society. The bequest was to be used as an hit and disabled by Japanese anti-aircraft “Umberto, congratulations! You will "Anthony and Anne Rosinia Scholarship fi re, forcing him into a crash landing. He be a great President. We look forward to Fund for Italian-American needy students spent three and a half months in a military your leadership.” Joseph Gagliardo. who wish to study law." hospital recovering from the resulting “Terrifi c news. We should be united in I explained the Scholarship Foundation injuries. He received the Bronze Star for these contests. Umberto will be a great to the attorney and he was of the opinion the 56 search missions he fl ew over the President and make us proud. I have long that the bequest was very general and we New Guinea jungles, including fi ve in a expressed my strong feelings about Justin- may use it for the purpose set forth, in PBY Catalina seaplane, for three missing amounts that we desire. The check will pilots from his squadron who had been ians running against echother.” Thomas be coming to me as Trustee around the shot down in a combat mission. Although Battista fi rst of the year. the pilots were never found, the Bronze “Congratulations, Umberto. As always, The Trustees of the Trust are the neph- Star citation was awarded because of “the you have our support. Auguri!” Richard ews of the deceased. They are Anthony courage and resourcefulness of Lt. Col. Caifano Pipitone, an attorney in Glenview and Rosinia genuinely assisted our country’s “Wonderful news! Heartiest congratu- James Pipitone, who lives in Aurora. battle against the Japanese aggressors. By lations. “President Davi” sounds good.” Perhaps, upon receipt of the check, his heroic actions and unselfi sh dedication Michael Monico. Katherine can send them a letter, acknowl- to duty, Lt. Rosinia has refl ected great credit upon himself and the United States “Great news! Umberto, congratula- edging the contribution and recognizing Army Air Force.” Mr. Rosinia, in some fashion. tions. We all admire you so much in all In 1935, Lt. Col. Rosinia received his The attorney stated that Mr. Rosinia you have accomplished while at the same B.S in economics from DePaul University was 96 years old when he died and moved time being a wonderful friend and ambas- and later received his J.D. from DePaul sador to everyone you meet. You will be from Chicago to Arizona sometime in Law School in 1938. He has been a mem- the 1970's. Leonard, maybe you or Tony another great ISBA President.” Anthony ber and active supporter of the Justinian Fornelli remember him? I will contact all Ferraro. Society of Lawyers since his admission to of you, upon receipt of the check. “Congratulations Umberto. We look the bar. Of particular importance to Ital- Happy Thanksgiving (and thanks to ian American lawyers, Rosinia traces his forward to your leadership.” Bruno Tas- "Jack" Rosinia )! family line to his uncle Michael Rosinia, sone - Sam Tornatore who was the fi rst Italian American to be “Congratulations, Umberto. My very appointed as Chicago’s city prosecutor best wishes as you head out on this voy- This caused past President Franco by then Mayor Kelley. He is admitted in age. And Len, thanks for the update.” Tim Coladipietro to recall an article that he both Illinois and Indiana and handled civil Bertschy had written about this most generous and litigation matters for over 50 years prior “We are all so happy for you Umberto. highly respected career Justinian in a long to his retirement. He was an adjunct pro- You will be a great ‘Mr. President.’” ago written newsletter article. This article fessor at Chicago Medical School where Antonio Romanucci. appeared in the December 1997 newsletter he taught medical jurisprudence and also authored a book on New Deal economics “The ISBA is in good hands! Best and we repeat the article herein verbatim. We thank the Rosinia family for their and law entitled “The New Deal Under the wishes!” Jessica DePinto. generosity and the late Anthony W. “Jack” Microscope.” In addition to his combat Rosinia is in our morning prayers. service during WWII, he also was recalled to active duty during the Korean confl ict for several years. Rosinia currently resides in Fountain Hills, Arizona.

PAGE 13 Judge Anthony A. Iosco Thomas M. Battista: By: Leonard F. Amari While Iosco was an assistant attorney general A Born Leader from 1983 to 1987, his responsibilities included During 2011, Northern Illinois University By: Leonard Amari the investigation and litigation of civil and announced that this month’s subject, Judge Rarely has Thomas M. Battista joined an criminal matters. This position entailed the Anthony A. Iosco, was appointed to the organization, professional, social, or com- conduct of jury and non-jury trials, grand jury prestigious position of Trustee, a member of munity, and did not become a leader in its proceedings and administrative proceedings the governing board of this highly respected governance: President of the Justinian Society – including substantive matters in taxation, university and law school. The press release of Lawyers and the Italian-American Political fi nancial fraud, health care, public utilities, set-out: Coalition; board member and legal advisor to personal injury, civil rights, medical practice “Illinois Governor Pat Quinn has announced the Italian-American Human Relations Founda- and criminal. that Anthony A. Iosco is one of four appoint- tion; an elected delegate of the assembly of the Another signifi cant step in Tony’s distin- ments to the governing board of Northern 32,000 member Illinois State Bar Association, guished career was his service for a period Illinois University. its supreme governing body; chief counsel to of years in the State of Illinois Department Iosco, a member of the NIU College of Law’s the Chairman of the U.S. Railroad Retirement of Professional Regulation as chief of gen- Board; Deputy Director of the Illinois Property fi rst graduating class (1978), currently serves eral prosecutions. In this role, he supervised Tax Appeal Board. as a judge in the Circuit Court of Cook County, and directed a staff of seven attorneys in the Raised initially in Elmwood Park, Battista and sitting in the Rolling Meadows courthouse, statewide investigation and the non-medical his family then moved to the nearby Galewood the 3rd municipal district. Prior to his election (business) licensing and regulatory statutes area of Chicago (Grand and Harlem). to the bench in 2000, Iosco spent nearly 20 administered by that offi ce. Battista attended Lane Tech High School in years in private practice and in state and local Also, during the late 1980’s, Judge Iosco held Chicago and received his B.A. in political sci- government in Chicago, e.g., as an assistant the position of commercial loan attorney for the ence, with a minor in business, from Western attorney general for nearly four years, with State of Illinois Department of Commerce and Illinois University, where he also completed the the Illinois Department of Professional Community Affairs, where his responsibilities graduate studies in American Government. Regulation and the Illinois Department of included the negotiation and preparation of Graduate school lead to an internship in Wash- Commerce and Community Affairs. ington, D.C. with the then Congressman Henry commercial and real estate loan documents, He also has been an adjunct faculty member J. Hyde. He received his Juris Doctorate from including the negotiation and structuring of at the highly respected John Marshall Law Loyola Law School in May of 1983. the underlying collateral packages. School, and has taught classes for the NIU MBA As to why he became an attorney, Battista program and the NIU College of Engineering says: “I gravitated toward the law as a young Tony also practiced general law over the and Engineering Technology. person. I think my father would have been a years with particular emphasis on mortgage, Judge Iosco is an active member of the NIU lawyer – a great one, had his family been able real estate, criminal, traffi c, personal injury community, currently serving as president of to support such a vocation.” and bankruptcy matters. He was respected and the NIU Alumni Association and as a member Obviously, Tom’s father had a profound effect successful as a private attorney but, obviously, of the NIU College of Law Alumni Council and on him as a young man and infl uenced his in- was always called to work in the private sector, providing leadership and direction as a mem- nate leadership traits. “I developed a perception usually, as this article clearly shows, being a ber of the Board of Visitors. During the past of government that was honorable and decent voice and watchdog for the general public. because of my father.” Tom’s respect for govern- year alone, he has represented the university These diverse and eclectic career experiences ment and government service is evidenced by at events in New York, Detroit, Boise, Idaho as a lawyer over the years well prepared Iosco some of his career choices: Service in the offi ce of and Phoenix.” for his ascending to the bench, when he was the Illinois Attorney General, Special Litigation Of course, those of us who know Tony and are elected from the 13th sub-circuit as a Circuit Division (1981-1987); Chief of Prosecutions familiar with his professional accomplishments Court Judge. for the Illinois Department of Professional and the esteem in which he is held in our legal Iosco has also been an adjunct faculty Regulation (1987-1989), senior policy advisor community, are not at all surprised with this member at the highly respected John Marshall and chief counsel to the chairman of the U.S. signifi cant appointment in his distinguished Law School in Chicago, a prolifi c author and Railroad Retirement Board (1989-1996), and career. Of his fellow colleague during their ear- lecturer, is active in all the judge and lawyer deputy director of The Illinois Property Tax lier career positions in the offi ce of the Illinois organizations, and is a recognized leader in our Attorney General during the mid 1980s, past ethnic bar association, the Justinian Society. president of the Justinian Society of (Italian) Tony traces his Italian ancestry to Umbria. Lawyers, Joseph F. Locallo, Jr., says: “Judge His family came through Ellis Island in the early Iosco’s whole career has been the pinnacle 1900s to the near north side Grand Avenue area, of professionalism; he was always a diligent the traditional neighborhood for immigrants lawyer and student of the law, who took those from Bari. His hobbies include scuba diving quality characteristics to the bench. When we and aviation. He is a resident of Elk Grove worked together for years at the AG’s offi ce, Village with his lovely wife Debra, a special Tony could always be relied upon. His diligence education teacher. and tenacity made him a tremendous asset to Another example of the best our community that offi ce – as the attorney for the people of has to offer. the State of Illinois.” From le , Thomas Ba sta, Jus ce Bob Thomas, and Re red Supreme Court Jus ce Moses Harrison.

PAGE 14 Baƫ sta, ConƟ nued Appeal Board (1996-2002). Michael M. Cabonargi: Because of his Dad’s political involvements, he was a role model for Tom and his brothers A New Political Star From Our Community Jim and Mark. Tom served as a leader, not only By: Leonard F. Amari in the Justinian Society but in his leadership role Society of (Italian) Lawyers. of the political voice of the Italian-American In this issue, we introduce you to Michael M. Michael has demonstrated through his community in the Chicagoland area and the Cabonargi, a bright, articulate fi rst generation brief political career that, in no small part, a State of Illinois, our wonderful and hardwork- Italian American from our community who is at signifi cant item on his political agenda is to ing Italian-American Political Coalition, where the end of the beginning of what appears to be improve the condition of Italian Americans in he has served as a board member and offi cer a brilliant political career. His family emigrated the Chicagoland area. He has already become climbing to president, where he served ably to this country from the Emilia Romana region a member of the Justinian Society, and has and from 2006-2008. “I especially enjoyed my IAPC of Italy and have provided Michael, as our will continue to attend our community func- leadership opportunity because it allowed me parents and grandparents have provided to us, tions. Of this outstanding young professional, to serve my fellow Italian Americans in the the opportunity to fulfi ll the American dream. past president of the Italian American Political government and political arena.” Michael M. Cabonargi was sworn-in on Feb- Coalition, the political voice of our community, Battista was president of the IAPC from ruary 10, 2011 as the appointed Commissioner and past President of our Justinian Society of 2006-2008. His IAPC presidential successor, of the Second District on the Cook County lawyers, Tom Battista says of Michael M. Ca- Ferdinand Serpe, says of his career friend and Board of Review by Cook County Chief Judge bonargi: “Mike embraces his ethnicity, wears colleague Tom Battista: “Tom set the agenda of Timothy Evans. it on his shoulder, and has demonstrated in his the IAPC, for the benefi t of our ethnic commu- Prior to his swearing-in on February 10, brief political career that he vouchsafes all of nity for the foreseeable future. He emphasized 2011, Commissioner Cabonargi served as a the values of the Italian American community: inclusion and participation, emphasizing greater senior attorney and prosecutor in the Chicago integrity, diligence, family and patriotism. We election opportunities for Italian Americans in Regional Offi ce of the United States Securities will be hearing a lot about Mike, politically, in all branches of government, and especially the and Exchange Commission (SEC) from 2005 the years to come.” judiciary, where our community substantially to 2011. Commissioner Cabonargi investigated Commissioner Cabonargi lives with his wife lags in this area.” and litigated cases involving insider trading, Erin Lavin Cabonargi, executive director of the Tom also served as the fi rst president of offering fraud, pay-to-play, and pyramid/Ponzi Public Building Commission of Chicago, and the Justinian Society Children’s Endowment schemes. In 2008, Commissioner Cabonargi re- their sons, William, and Jack in Chicago's Logan Foundation, a charity focused on the needs of ceived the SEC Director's Award for Excellence Square community. Commissioner Cabonargi's children. for combating fi nancial fraud targeting seniors previous community service includes serving Battista was one of the more respected and in 2007 he received the Chairman's Award as a member of the Local School Council for presidents of the highly regarded Justinian Soci- for bringing the largest private offering fraud Brentano Elementary School in Chicago from ety of Lawyers (2003-2004) where he provided case fi led by the Commission in the amount of 2006 to 2008; and as a member of the 35th leadership for over 11 years serving ten as a $2.8 billion. Ward's Zoning Advisory Committee from 2007 member of its Executive Committee and six as Prior to joining the SEC, Commissioner to 2009. He also served on the Illinois an offi cer moving through the executive posi- Cabonargi was an attorney with the prestigious Comptroller's Ethics Commission from 2003 tions. Of his Justinian Presidency, distinguished Bell, Boyd and Lloyd, LLC from 2004 to 2005 to 2005. Past President and another giant of our legal and with Gardner Carton and Douglas LLP, The Cook County Board of Review, formerly and ethnic community, Michael V. Favia says: another major fi rm, from 2002 to 2004, with the Board of Appeals, consists of three members “Not only did Tom Battista serve as a wonder- a concentration in complex commercial and elected from individual districts. The Board is ful role model as president of the Justinians, he regulatory litigation. Among other matters, a quasi-judicial body that is charged with fairly also spent his year focusing on the rudimentary Commissioner Cabonargi represented the City and impartially reviewing the assessments of all things that never seem to get the attention of of Chicago in the federal and state litigation property to the extent authorized by the Property (usually ceremonial) presidents of these types arising out of the closing of Meigs Field. Tax Code, correcting all assessments which of organizations. He focused on, among other From 2000 to 2002, Commissioner Cabonargi should be corrected. It is empowered to raise, more visible things, updated the decades-old and served as law clerk to United States District lower, and or direct the Cook County Assessor out of date by-laws; a renewed attention to the Court Judge William J. Hibbler in Chicago. to change, correct, alter, or modify assessments treasury and fund raising; increasing scholarship During his clerkship, he initiated and helped as justice may require, and to do all acts neces- dollars to assist needy Italian-American law to establish the court's fi rst help desk for pro sary within the authority provided by the code to students; greater integration of this ethnic bar se (self-represented) litigants, for which he procure a full, fair and a full, fair and impartial association with the traditional legal organiza- received the Award for Excellence in Public assessment of all property. The Second District tions, such as the Illinois State and Chicago Bar Interest Service from the Federal Bar Associa- includes Chicago’s downtown, north, northwest Associations.” tion and the U.S. District Court in 2005. and southwest communities. Battista entered the private practice of law in Commissioner Cabonargi served as an aide An example of the best our community has 2002 where he serves as senior associate with to United States Senator Richard J. Durbin in to offer. the highly respected Chicago law fi rm of Rock, 1997 and served as an aide to United States Fusco and Associates, concentrating in the real Senator Paul Simon from 1993 to 1997. estate assessment process, professional licensure Commissioner Cabonargi received his J.D. in and regulatory matters. 2000 from the University of Illinois College of A resident of Chicago, he is married to the Law in Champaign and a B.A. in Political Sci- beautiful Cynthia and has two children: fi ve year ence and a B.A. in Foreign Affairs from Miami old daughter Mia and son Michael, 21 who is a University in 1993. He is a previous recipient student at DePaul University. of a law student scholarship from our Justinian

PAGE 15 Reboletti Remains a True Prosecutor graduated from Eastern Illinois University in [Editor’s Note: This article, written by Bethany Krajelis, originally appeared in the Chicago 1990 with a political science degree, Reboletti Daily Law Bulletin and is being reprinted here said he decided he would run for elected offi ce with permission.] one day. It's not hard to tell that Rep. Dennis M. At that point, however, he wasn't exactly sure Reboletti was a prosecutor before he became a what he wanted to do in the meantime. lawmaker. He briefl y went to graduate school for political While he's probably most known for his recent science and worked as a deputy assessor in Ad- efforts to reinstate the death penalty, Reboletti dison before coming to the conclusion that law has spent much of his career in the Illinois school would give him the background he needed General Assembly focused on improving the and wanted to become an elected offi cial. criminal justice system from the perspective It didn't take long after he started at Valparaiso of a prosecutor. University School of Law for Reboletti to real- In fact, the fi rst bill he introduced as a law- ize he wanted to use his degree to become a maker was born out of his experiences on the prosecutor. drug unit at the Lake County state's attorney's But, not even weeks before he graduated offi ce. After a stint at the Illinois Attorney Gen- from law school, Reboletti's love for politics eral's offi ce, he was an assistant state's attorney came calling. Some of the local politicians he in Lake County from 1999 to 2007, the year he Reboletti has introduced several mea- had campaigned for as a volunteer approached joined the legislature. sures to undo Quinn's historic move, including him about running for alderman in Elmhurst. Drawing on his past career, Reboletti was one that would reduce the number of aggravating "It was one of those surreal experiences where able to successfully convince his new col- factors that warrant capital punishment. you think about it and all of sudden the oppor- leagues to approve his fi rst bill, which added Durkin said Reboletti provides a strong voice tunity comes up and you're thrown into it," he Salvia divinorum, a drug with the appearance of for prosecutors throughout the state and doesn't said. "Finishing law school and campaigning marijuana and the effects of LSD, to the state's shy away from controversial issues like the death was diffi cult, but it was something I wanted list of banned substances. penalty. to do." Reboletti was elected and served as an Since then, the 42-year-old Republican lawmak- "Dennis is a good lawyer and he's someone Elmhurst alderman from 1997 to 2001. er from Elmhurst has continued to use his legal who is his own person," he said. "He's not afraid A year after he began his career as an elected background to introduce a bevy of legislation to speak his mind." offi cial, Reboletti took the next step in his legal intended to not only improve the criminal justice Reboletti said he considers it a privilege to career by accepting a position with the Illinois system, but to provide his former colleagues with serve as a voice for prosecutors and an honor to Attorney General's offi ce. the tools they need to do their jobs. be recognized by them. He said he was given an He was responsible for representing the Illi- "He's a true and true prosecutor," said Rep. award last week by the Illinois State's Attorneys nois Department of Corrections in lawsuits fi led James B. Durkin, R-Countryside. Association. by inmates. Reboletti said it was an interesting Durkin, a former prosecutor himself, is one "State's attorneys are aware of the work I'm position that gave him insight into the state's of the handful of lawmakers who have joined doing and that's very humbling for someone prison system, something that has been useful Reboletti in his opposition to Gov. Patrick J. who thinks of himself as a prosecutor and now in his legislative career. Quinn 's decision last week to abolish the death has the opportunity to make some decisions that He was at the AG's offi ce for about a year penalty and commute the sentences of the 15 will affect them in the legislature," Reboletti before taking a position with the Lake County inmates on death row. said. "It's great to be a voice for all the men and prosecutor's offi ce. Reboletti, who unsuccess- women in the courtrooms." fully ran for a seat in the House in 2003, stayed Although Rebo- there until was elected to represent the 46th letti spent more than a District. decade practicing law, Since then, Reboletti's colleagues say he politics was always his has grown into a confi dent and well-spoken fi rst love. lawmaker. He said his interest Rep. Jim Sacia, R-Pecatonica, has been sit- came from his father ting near Reboletti in the House Criminal Law and grandfather, both Committee since 2007. of whom were in- He said he considers Reboletti to be one of volved in unions and the state's three fi nest lawmakers. The other two frequently discussed lawmakers — Bill Black and Art Turner— have government. A high retired, Sacia said. school class about gov- "Each of them have character and attitude and ernment and the law for me, that's everything," Sacia said, explaining only furthered that that Reboletti has an "I'm not going to let you interest. push me around" kind of attitude. By the time he "He's very comfortable in his own skin," Sacia said. "He's not going to let politics affect From le , Franco Coladipietro, Leonard Amari, Re red Chief Jus ce his convictions." Thomas Fitzgerald, Dennis Rebole , and Umberto Davi.

PAGE 16 Joseph W. Balesteri: Litigator Joe Gagliardo By: Leonard F. Amari Highlighted in Crain’s One of the more highly respected publica- [Editor’s note: The following article, written by tions in the Illinois legal community, Chicago Laura Bianchi, appeared in Crain’s Chicago Lawyer, recently highlighted the distinguished Business, the October 30, 2011 edition and we careers of 10 successful and esteemed trial law- republish here verbatim.] yers. Joseph W. Balesteri was included in this A bass guitar player for the Cool Rockin’ notable group. They chose this month’s subject Daddies, who perform at local festivals and out of a potential 90,000 lawyers licensed to clubs, Joseph Gagliardo, 58, earns his serious practice law in the State of Illinois. living as managing partner of Chicago law fi rm Balesteri, 37, estimates that the cases he has Laner, Muchin, Dombrow, Becker, Levin & worked on, some litigated, many settled, exceed Tominberg, Ltd. On his docket: $200 million. American and Illinois Bar Association, Joe has been an associate with the highly journals and electronic updates; hard copies of respected personal injury plaintiff’s fi rm of Chicago lawyer and the Daily Law Bulletin; e- bulletins from the “Bureau of National Affairs” Power, Rogers & Smith P.C., whose practice and “Courthouse News.” Networks with defense is confi ned exclusively in representing indi- trial lawyers through Chicago-based Defense Lawyer in Personal Injury Law in 2004. This viduals and families as victims of medical Research Institute (DRI.org). “I might post a malpractice, product liability, premises liability honor was earned by fewer than 5% of all question about Minnesota law, and a lawyer and automobile accidents. Year after year this lawyers licensed in Illinois. Other prominent there can respond.” prestigious and highly respected catastrophic younger Italian-American lawyers that have Sun-Times and Tribune for general news; injury fi rm ranks at the top of the profession been chosen to the elite 40 Under 40 grouping DailyWhale.com “for articles on the business in gross settlements, judgments and verdicts include Franco Coladipietro, Celia Guzaldo side of government;” “Chicago Magazine” “for substantive features about Chicagoans for victims of the negligence of others. Gamrath, John Sciaccotta, Gregory Conforti, Anthony Masciopinto, David Bonomo, Colleen and restaurant reviews,” and “Today’s Chicago A 1992 Indiana University undergraduate, Woman” for who has been promoted or switched Joe cut his teeth after graduation from DePaul Scimeca, Anita Ventrelli, John M. Spesia, and fi rms; I might want to send a note of congratula- College of Law in 1995 working the other side most recently, Katherine Amari. tions.” of the courtroom at Hinshaw & Culbertson Balesteri was also selected by a polling of all Anthony Lewis’ “Gideon’s Trumpet” inspired LLP, representing sued physicians, nurses, active lawyers across Illinois as a Super Lawyer him to become a lawyer. “It’s all about the Su- hospitals, and HMO’s as well as other general in medical malpractice litigation in 2005 as well preme Court case granting indigent defendants the right to counsel. It showed me that a lawyer liability defense. as being selected by a survey of veteran trial could have a signifi cant impact on society.” “He does a very nice job of explaining a lawyers, law fi rm partners and judges as a rising star of the trial bar in the featured article in In progress: “Soulsville USA” by Rob case to the jury,” said Joseph A. Power, Jr., Bowman, about the impact of Memphis-based founding partner of the fi rm. “Joe is a very Chicago Lawyer Magazine, 2008. Joe follows in Stax Records on ‘60s music and culture. “The bright individual, and he is very tenacious. He the footsteps of many Justinians and successful company’s house band was integrated, which has a good grasp of the medicine, and he gets Italian-American plaintiffs’ trail lawyers, from was very unusual back then. I’m fascinated that to the bottom of every problem.” the late John Phillips, to the highly respected music had an impact on race relations.” Growing up as the son of a cardiologist, Ba- Angelo Mistretta, Joe Curcio, Fred Lambruschi, Music ‘zines include “Rolling Stone,” “Bass Player” and “No Depression” (for all-country lesteri knew in high school that he wanted to and Dominic Fichera, among others; to the “younger” members, such as Steve Phillips, and roots music); to fi nd additions to his exten- be a lawyer. But he never thought he’d end up sive record and CD collection “Goldmine”. “I John’s son, Mike Monico, Jim Morici, Tony suing doctors for a living. He fi rst worked as don’t know what they’re worth; their treasure a law clerk for Power, Rogers & Smith just to Romanucci, Joe Marconi, Lou Cairo and Joe is the music.” “learn from the best people who do it.” His fi ve Bosco, among others. years there turned out to be a “great training Joe Balesteri is a member of all the tradi- ground” for what would come in 2000. That’s tional bar associations, including the Illinois when he was asked to sign on to the plaintiff’s and American Trial Lawyers Association, the fi rm of Power, Rogers & Smith. He accepted Illinois State and Chicago Bar Associations, the offer, but not before checking with his dad. and treasures his involvement in the Justinian “I got clearance from the tower,” Balesteri said. Society and the Fenwick Bar Association. “It was an offer I would never refuse. They Balesteri traces his Italian roots to San Nicola, have the best cases in the country and they’re Sicily. As was often the case with immigrants great trial lawyers, so I’d be insane not to work coming to America, the family name BAL- here. But if it was going to embarrass my dad, ESTRIERI was shortened upon arrival by an I wouldn’t have switched.” unknown U.S. Immigration offi cial. Joe is A prolifi c author and lecturer in legal pub- married to Peggy Balesteri, an attorney with lications, locally and nationally, in his area, Winston & Strawn, and they are the parents of Balesteri has received numerous prestigious two wonderful sons, Anthony and Nicholas. awards and honors including: being selected Another example of the best our community has to offer. by a survey of peers conducted by the Law Joseph Gagliardo and Jus nian Society Bulletin Publishing Company as a Leading President, Katherine Amari O’Dell.

PAGE 17 Forty Under 40 By: Leonard F. Amari Karie traces her Italian ancestry to her father’s sits on the Board of Advisors for St. Agnes of side of the family. Her great-grandparents were Bohemia Elementary School in the southwest Every year, the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, from Montevago, Sicily and they immigrated side of Chicago. a highly respected daily newspaper for the Il- to the United States around the turn of the 20th His great-grandfather, Alberto Salvi, came linois legal community, accepts nominations century. Her great-grandmother, Euphrasia, was to the United States in the early 1900s and was for its prestigious 40 lawyers under the age a seamstress who came through Ellis Island. Here a famous harpist. He emigrated from a small of 40 recognition. Every year, our community grand-grandfather Giuseppe immigrated to New town outside of Venice. After arriving in the sees many of its younger attorneys recognized Orleans with his family. Both of their families United States, he had a son, Albert. Albert, for their accomplishments. Three of this year’s moved to Springfi eld, Patrick’s grandfather, went to Notre Dame for individuals recognized, among other Italian IL because of the coal his undergraduate studies American attorneys: Karie J. Giganti Valen- mining industry. They and Northwestern Law tino, Claudia Gallo, and Patrick Salvi. We met in Springfi eld and School. He started his highlight their careers, adopting, in part, the married in 1906. own fi rm, Salvi, Salvi & article about then from the For the success young Wifl er, located in Lake Law Bulletin. Patrick A. Salvi has Zurich, IL. Five of his As an Ironman triath- already enjoyed, it is nine children are lawyers, lete and an ultra marathon hard to believe that he including Patrick’s father, runner, Karie J. Giganti has been practicing law Patrick. Valentino brings a unique for only a little more Claudia Gallo, 36, is a level of energy and dedi- than four years. He highly respected, mature cation to her practice. joined Salvi, Schostok & beyond her years attorney At Anderson, Rasor & Pritchard in 2007, and concentrates his practice is a very diffi cult area of Partners, LLP, Valentino on cases involving personal injury, medical practice. A partner at the represents and manages malpractice, product liability and commercial highly respected family law fi rm of Berger individual and corporate litigation. Examples of the talent of this young Schatz, she represents clients in family and mat- clients in issues ranging professional and reasons he was so recognized rimonial law, including divorce, paternity, and from medical malpractice, personal injury, for this prestigious accolade include: during just custody matters. Her work includes every aspect product liability and commercial law. his fi rst trial as lead attorney, Salvi secured a of representation necessary in family law matters Valentino attended The University of Iowa $1.28 million injury verdict for a teenage client such as contested court proceedings, complex before enrolling at The John Marshall Law who sustained a broken leg and knee cap. Fur- negotiation, and fi nancial analysis. Throughout School. She showed her commitment to her thermore, he has also obtained a $29.1 million it all, Gallo remains calm and dependable. practice early on, completing an externship verdict in a medical malpractice case brought in One reason why Gallo excels is because she with the Honorable George M. Marovich of the federal court and a $33.2 million jury verdict in has some of the best analytical skills in her area U.S. District Court for the Northern District of a Lake County injury case. In that case, Salvi, of practice, a prominent Chicago attorney inter- Illinois during law school. She then gained trial along with his father, was trial counsel for a viewed for the article said. “Claudia is extremely experience working in the Cook County State’s young man who suffered catastrophic injuries bright, hardworking, and unfailingly ethical. She Attorney’s Offi ce Misdemeanor Jury Division. in an automobile collision resulting in the client has an excellent understanding of fi nancial and There, she used her 711 (internship) license to being left as a quadriplegic. The trial resulted trust law that most family lawyers lack. Claudia prosecute bench trials and negotiate plea agree- in the highest verdict ever achieved in Lake gets to the heart of fi nancial issues in a divorce ments. County, Illinois. quickly and shows an insight into how and why After being admitted to the Illinois Bar, Salvi received his B.A. from the University of the numbers work (or, more importantly, don’t Valentino joined Jesmer & Harris, where she Colorado in 2004 and earned his J.D. cum laude work) in negotiating settlements.” “She also worked as associate in-house counsel, defend- from the University of Notre Dame Law School empathizes with her clients in a personal way, ing personal injury and construction liability in 2007. While in law school, he received the making them more comfortable during a very cases. award from the International Academy of Trial diffi cult time in their lives.” In 1999, Valentino went to work for Bollinger, Lawyers for excellence in trial advocacy. Claudia’s maternal great great grandmother, Ruberry & Garvey, where she became a litigation Salvi is a member of the Lake County Bar As- Josephine D’Allessandra, and great grand- partner after four and a half years. There, she sociation, the Justinian Society of Lawyers (Lake mother, Victoria D’Allessandra Camarata, were handled matters involving medical malpractice, County Chapter), the Chicago Bar Association, born and raised in Genoa, Italy. product liability, premises liability, personal and the Illinois State Bar Association, where Gallo attended Loyola University of Chicago, injury, and commercial law – always focusing he is a member of the Standing Committee on graduating with Honors and a bachelor’s degree on protecting the rights of injury victims. Judicial Evaluations. Salvi is involved with and a cum laude. She earned her J.D. from Illinois In 2008, she moved to Anderson Rasor & member of the American Association for Justice Institute of Technology Chicago-Kent College Partners as a partner and her success as litigator as well as the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association, of Law with high honors, Order of the Coif in has followed her there are well. She already has where he serves on the Board of Advocates and 1999. In law school, she was a member of the achieved signifi cant results for clients at her new co-chairs the seminar planning committee. He editorial staff of the Chicago-Kent Law Review fi rm. In addition to her work in the courtroom, has judged ABA and AAJ trial competitions for and served as notes and comments editor. In Valentino has conducted presentations for phy- the past four years, and this year was a judge in 2004, Gallo completed the American Bar As- sicians and nurses at numerous hospitals and the AVA Moot Court competition. In addition, sociation Family Law Trial Advocacy Institute, medical facilities. Valentino is a member of the he has also been a speaker at the MBA business an intensive trial and litigation program. Society of Trial Lawyers and she is an offi cer law class at Kellogg’s School of Management Gallo is a member of the Chicago Bar Asso- for The John Marshall Law School Alumni As- and for the class “Personal Injury Litigation” ciation (past co-chair, Young Lawyers Section sociation. She also serves as an offi cer for the at the Notre Dame Law School. Family Law Committee), the Illinois Bar As- Women’s Bar Association of Illinois. Salvi was formerly the chairman and currently ConƟ nued on page 19

PAGE 18 Joe Marconi: a Lawyer’s Lawyer Five Romanucci & By: Leonard F. Amari extensive trial experience including Blandin Attorneys The press release received stated: “Illinois jury and chancery Supreme Court appoints Marconi to advise trials. Make 2012 Super- discovery committee. Marconi has had, Effective January 1, 2012, the State of Il- among his various Lawyer® Status linois' Supreme Court appointed Johnson & commercial clients, Bell, Ltd. Shareholder Joseph R. Marconi as insurance compa- advisor to the Judicial Conference Committee nies, fi nancial in- on Discovery Procedures. Mr. Marconi is the stitutions and many chair of the Business Litigation/Transactions prominent local and group at the fi rm. national companies. The Committee is comprised of circuit and He is proud to have been chosen as defense appellate court judges from around the state counsel for so many good lawyers in Illinois. and is chaired by Justice Maureen E. Connors Joe’s family ran a well-known bakery in of the First District Appellate Court. This year's Chicago Heights for almost a century, his pa- primary project is the development and drafting ternal grandparents having emigrated from the of proposed rule amendments and guidelines Marche region of Italy and his mom’s parents, the for the management of electronic discovery in Pagoria family, from “a little town just outside Illinois. According to Mr. Michael J. Tardy, of Palermo,” called Caccamo. Five attorneys at the Chicago injury fi rm of director of the Illinois Judicial Conference, Very active in the Italian American community Romanucci & Blandin, LLC have been named Mr. Marconi was appointed because of his both through activities with the National Italian a SuperLawyer for 2012, including Antonio M. "experience in complex civil litigation" which American Foundation and as general counsel Romanucci, a top 100 Illinois SuperLawyer®, "evidences a level of competence in the area for the National Italian American Sports Hall and Stephan D. Blandin, SuperLawyer®; and of e-discovery that will greatly aid in the com- of Fame, he is a proud Justinian, a mentor to attorneys Michael E. Holden, Frank A. Som- mittee's work." younger lawyers and a major infl uence in the mario, and managing attorney Gina Arquilla Of course, the press release doesn’t tell us fi rm of Johnson & Bell. Joseph R. Marconi is DeBoni, 2012 SuperLawyers® Rising Stars. much about this highly respected lawyers, Jus- a quality example of lawyers from the Italian In addition, Antonio Romanucci has been ap- tinian and friend. Named to the fi rst academic American experience. He is married to the lovely pointed by the Supreme Court of Illinois to the team All Big Eight Conference Team in 1971 Micki, and they are the parents of Laura, Sam Rules Committee effective January 2, 2012 thru at Iowa State University, Joe graduated from and Allie, residing in Western Springs. December 2014. JMLS thereafter. Piccolo mondo, Joe was SuperLawyers is a nationwide rating service of named, while at Marian Catholic, to the all-area outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice Italian American high school football team by areas who have attained a high degree of peer Fra Noi. Forty, ConƟ nued from page 18 recognition and professional achievement. The Marconi has been very active in the Illinois selection process is multi-phased and includes sociation, the American Bar Association, State Bar Association, the statewide 37,000 independent research, peer nominations and peer and the Justinian Society of Lawyers. member lawyers’ organization. He is currently evaluations. Selections are made on an annual, Gallo is married and lives in the western a member of the Judicial Evaluation Commit- state-by-state basis. tee. He was the editor of its highly respected suburbs with her husband, Mike, their children, Bella and Illiana, yellow lab, Established by Antonio M. Romanucci and newsletter, Tort Trends, from 1991 through June Stephan D. Blandin, Romanucci & Blandin is 1995. He is currently the central region editor Tucker, and her horse, Chief. Additional folks from our community a Chicago-based personal injury law fi rm dedi- of the Business Suit, a nationally published who are recipients of the 2011 40/40 rec- cated to providing injured clients with aggressive newsletter of the Commercial Litigation Section ognition include Brian Monico, a litigator representation in a diligent, professional, skilled of the Defense Research Institute. Joe serves as with the fi rm of Burke, Wise, Morrissey and caring manner. The fi rm has recovered more General Counsel of the ISBA/Mutual Insurance & Kaveny, LLC and David T. Cellitti with than $200 million for its clients, including a Company. the fi rm of Dykema LLC. record $23 million medical malpractice verdict He is a member of the Chicago, Illinois, Valentino, Gallo and Salvi join many against a hospital and a record $17 million Wisconsin, and American Bar Associations other Italian American attorneys so rec- verdict against the city of Chicago. Dozens of and was an active member of the signifi cant ognized over the years, including, among those verdicts and settlements were $1 million Torts Sections Council of the ISBA from 1990 others, the Gamraths (both Celia and Rob), or higher. to 1994. He was also general counsel for the Franco Coladipietro, Gregory Conforti, Romanucci & Blandin, LLC, is located at 33 ISBA/Mutual Insurance Company from 1990 Anthony Masciopinto, David Bonoma, N. LaSalle St., Suite 2000, Chicago, IL 60602. to 1996. Colleen Scimeca, Anita Ventrelli, John Further information about the fi rm is available Marconi joined the prestigious Chicago law M. Spesia, Katherine Amari O’Dell, John Storino, Kenneth C. Apicella, Peter at www.rblaw.net or by calling 312-458-1000. fi rm of Johnson & Bell in 1988 and is the current M. Spingola, Michael Bonamarte, and head of its commercial litigation department, Christopher Carani. which includes the handling of the defense of attorney and accountant negligence/malpractice matters. He has substantial experience in both transactional and litigation matters and has

PAGE 19 Dan Bellino: Jaconettys Awarded He calls ‘em like he sees ‘em for Service By: Leonard Amari [Editor’s Note: One of our more respected members, Thomas Jaconetty, chief deputy assessor of the Offi ce of the Cook County Assessor, has been In this issue, we introduce in these pages Dan consider other possible options. While he had a asked repeatedly over the years to permit this Bellino, licensed Illinois practicing attorney and editor to highlight his distinguished career in Fra better fallback than most, he also kept his foot Noi and, again, in our Justinian Newsletter. Tom professional Major League Baseball umpire. on the accelerator. In 2008, he made his major keeps promising to get around to it, as does his Quite a combination. Upon graduating from league debut with one game. While working the wonderful wife, Judith. However, neither seems Northern Illinois University, Dan thought that to get around to it. My opinion is that the reason Triple-A Pacifi c Coast League in 2009, he was for non-attentiveness is sheer humility. For that his career path would be law school, in the called up for 31 major league games. reason, we reprint herein an article about these Intellectual Property fi eld, patents, copyrights, Bellino knew he was closing in on the majors two wonderful people that appeared in “Faith & and the like, and then a practice in patent law, Community,” the Fall 2011 edition of the Regina last year when he umped 112 games as a replace- Dominican magazine.] perhaps a litigator. With that in mind, Danny ment. In February, he was promoted to full-time Bellino distinguished himself as an outstand- status in the majors. Minor league umpires start ing student at The John Marshall Law School. off making about $1,800 a month, while major A funny thing happened, however, upon his league umps make approximately $84,000 to graduation in 2002. He decided to put all of $300,000 a year. his efforts into being an umpire in professional Italian Americans have distinguished them- baseball. He gave it his best shot and, fi nally, selves over the years as major league umpires. has succeeded. Presently, according to Bellino, there are nine, “Eight years of toiling as a minor league including himself, Tony Randazzo (son of the umpire hardly seems like fast tracking,” Danny executive director of the Italian American Sports said when asked about this transitional period Hall of Fame, George), Chris Guccione, crew With great honor, President Sister Mary Mar- in his young life. chief Ed Rapuano, Mike Dimuro, Dan Iassogna, garet Pachucki, OP, presented Judith Hamill and Yet in a profession that employs only 68 Tim Tschida, Phil Cuzzi and Brian O’Nora. Tom Jaconetty with the Saint Martin de Porres full-time members, one in which the odds are Here is Dan’s history of his Italian ancestry in Award at Regina’s annual President’s Brunch heavily stacked against ever making it to the his own words, “My family is from Tuscany of September 26, 2011. The award acknowl- major leagues, Dan Bellino’s rise was near edges recent grad parents who are outstanding on one side, and Sicily (Palermo) on the other. examples of the Dominican pillar of service. meteoric. I remember talking to my grandmother about Saint Martin de Porres was a Dominican Brother The 32-year-old resident of Crystal Lake got this years ago, she said we still have relatives who lived in the 16th century in Lima, Peru. the call in February 2009, just before he left for there. Growing up, I remember vividly when Martin spent his entire life in charitable service spring training. It was the call of a lifetime as my Nona would get upset with me; she would to others. Whatever the need, Martin responded he learned he was being promoted to full-time with deep compassion and humility. always get angry in Italian. I wish some of that Tom and Judith joined the Regina community major league umpire. His wife, Katie, recalls would have stuck with me. But, believe it or not, in 2006 when their daughter, Nicole, enrolled in they both shed tears of joy over the news. my grandmother, being fi rst generation, felt that the class of 2012. “During those four years, they Now at the major league level, Bellino gets more it was more important for us to speak English responded graciously to many requests made by time at home during the summer with Katie and all the time. My family has always been based our school parents,” said Sister Mary Margaret. their three sons – Anthony (4), Grant (21⁄2) and “They were always ready to provide time and in Chicago. My Grandfather was a high ranking energy.” Sister Mary Margaret recognized Tom Andrew (8 months). offi cer in WWII, who distinguished himself, as and Judith for their endless hours spent planting Their pictures are smattered all over the inside did many Italian Americans. fl owers in Regina’s gardens and for making sure lid of Bellino’s traveling trunk. Of his current career status, Bellino says, the planters in front of school and the audito- Bellino admits he didn’t totally know what “Last year I got a really good taste of what it rium were at their best for any occasion. Sister he was getting into when he embarked on this Mary Margaret also noted, “Whenever they would be like to be full-time. The difference saw a need, they responded without hesitation.” journey to become a major league baseball between full-time and a minor league umpire Although Nicole has graduated from Regina, umpire. is full-time you have your schedule. You know Tom continues to serve the school as a Board He found himself drawn to umpiring school, where you’re going to be. I’m here before the member. Both Judith and Tom remain commit- even though his offi ciating experience to that All-Star break and it’s a perfect transition. I can ted to the life and vision of Regina Dominican point was limited to basketball. High School.” drive home and it’s like a regular day of work. Tom says, “Judith and I believe that one of “I came into the system and I honestly had no I was home for the Fourth of July for the fi rst the gifts we can all give – not matter what our idea how diffi cult it was,” Bellino said. “I had time in 10 years.” means or our station in life – is service. We should no concept there was fi ve different levels of A Another example of the best our community take the time to lighten the load. We should take ball, then Double- and Triple-A. I learned how has to offer. the time to be a part. We should take the time diffi cult it was once I was into it. Once you to embrace the mission. And, after we have done so, we all will look back and feel that we realize how diffi cult it is, then you do start to have had a part in something much bigger and put certain limits on yourself.” more important than ourselves – the forming of Bellino said it’s only natural for umpires to educated young women whose presence in this world will truly make a difference.”

PAGE 20 Legacy Saggi Dinner “A Tavola Non Si Invecchia” By: Richard Caifano were naturally drawn to those who shared our By: Richard Caldarazzo heritage. We were rewarded with an embrace Legacy has been from a generation of lawyers who had set the defi ned as: some- [Editor’s note: To the best recollection of many standard and who gave us good counsel in our thing inherited from of us old timers, past presidents and others, it formative years. The warmth of that embrace a predecessor; a was during the tenure of Jack Cerone as presi- lingers in we who have grown from it and in heritage. dent of the Justinian Society, mid-1970s, when turn seek to pass it on. We, the sons and we started having a semi-annual dinner of the So many great men and women of that infl u- daughters of Ital- “old timers” merely to break bread and share ence come to mind: Allegretti, Barbara, Cirese, ians, appreciate one another’s delightful company. This tradi- DiGrazia, Quilici, Sorrentino, Gallo, Sbarbaro, the perfection of tion carried on for year after year, usually at Bosco, Coccia, Chippori, Fornelli, Scotillo, Si- a Puccini aria, the a downtown restaurant, and the turnout was, racusa, Barbaro, Stillo, Pusateri...who inspired lush taste of the traditionally, almost every past president. Amari, Cerone, Pope, Pocellino, Rinella, Tas- grape fresh from sone, Bisceglia, Caldarazzo, Monico…who in the barrel at Easter, During the tenure of John Locallo as president turn gave counsel to the current Justinian Society the tantalizing aroma of lasagna bubbling in of the Justinians, we used that “old timers” leadership. The beat goes on. the oven and the warmth that is family. These dinner to also serve as a meeting of the nomi- In seamless progression, we were schooled by inseparable parts of our heritage defi ne who we nating committee. For a short number of years, those who came before us to guide those who are and draw us to others who hold those senses we even called it the “Game Dinner” because have chosen to follow. Who among us does not dear. Jack and other folks in his network were hunt- rise to applaud the work of Len Amari in the For more than two generations we, the sons ers and we would have a game dinner where formation of our student mentoring program? and daughters of immigrants, have realized the venison and other such entrees were prepared, Justinian student mentoring has meant so much dreams of those who bravely made their way usually on Grand Avenue at a restaurant called to those who have succeeded in the study of law into the legal profession planting the seed of “II Jack’s.” who, but for the dedication of their mentors, purpose and place. may not have been able to attain that dream. So it is that we who were spared the curse of For whatever reason, over the last several Mentoring is the most important element in the depression, that so challenged our parents, years, we stopped having this wonderful annual the legacy that has come to defi ne the Justinian who so bravely laid the path for us, have come event. Thanks to Richard Caldarazzo and Mike Society of Lawyers. to acquire and to inspire. We have acquired the Pope, two of our more respected past presidents, With extreme parental pride, Justinian legal professional careers not possible to our parents. the tradition was reinstated in the year 2011. professionals continue to grow from one genera- We serve to inspire a continuum for our chil- Attached hereto is Dick’s report of a recently tion to the next. Dedicated to the rule of law and dren. held dinner.] to our inherent need to see its preservation, we As Italian-Americans, we are not alone in be- serve as a beacon to those that follow. Within ing drawn to the legal profession as an ethnicity. On Tuesday, October 11, 2011, the second the Justinian Society, the families of Allegretti, Nor are we unique in seeking success for our meeting of the Saggi (“Wise Ones”) was called Amari, Sorrentino, Bosco, Spatuzza, Fornelli, children. However, because we have achieved to order at Danny’s Café in Melrose Park. The DeCarlo, Ori, Davi, Monico, DePalma, Cerone, success, we strive to share that success with order of business was sharing wine, food, and Locallo, Caifano, Erbacci, Pope, DiBella, those we nurture. We look with pride upon the fellowship. The motto of our organization is one Phillips, Coco, Fichera, Vitell, Ansani, Banks, accomplishments of Italian-Americans in the given to us by the beloved Anthony Scariano: Curielli, Lucaccioni, Scotillo, to name a few, legal profession. And we draw from those ac- “A tavola non si invecchia” (at the table, when have witnessed a succession of attorneys from complishments to allow for its continuation in we share food and fellowship; we don’t age). one generation to the next. those who dare aspire to it. Those in attendance at the meeting were Tony It is our legacy; nothing is more worthy of We were born in Chicago and attracted to Romanucci, Michael Pope, Bruno Tassone, celebration! legal careers. Upon entering the profession, we Richard Caifano, Umberto Davi, Joe Bisceg- lia, Richard Caldarazzo, Angelo Mistretta and Michael Monico, who arrived fashionably late. [Editor’s note: Of all of the actual or perceived Several of our members who were unable to leaders of our Italian American community, attend, were dearly missed. We hope that they no one, individually, has done more to better will join us at our next meeting. our condition than brother Richard Caifano. When we fi rst sat down, we were greeted by In no small part, he was a motivating factor in Paula, our gracious hostess, who presented us the creation and early success of the Justinian with two large bowls of neck bones as a com- chapters, the National Italian American Bar plimentary appetizer. She then followed that Association, the Italian American Political with a new appetizer, stuffed meatball (a large Coalition, and not to mention as a true heart meatball stuffed with asiago cheese and peas) From le , Antonio Romanucci, Gregg Garofalo, and soul of our society. And all very subtly. And and Richard Caifano. no one is more respected or beloved.] ConƟ nued on page 22

PAGE 21 Saggi, conƟ nued from page 21 and the traditional sausage and peppers (the favorite of Frankie Five Angels). After DiVito Receives Crisis that, we had a large salad and various dinners were shared, including giambotta, Leadership Award Management linguini with broccoli aglio olio, eggplant Attorneys fight for murder Parmesan, and lemon chicken. victims family The dinner was followed by espresso, cappuccino, and gelato. [Editor’s Note: The following article, written And of course, the evening was ﬁ lled by Nyssa Gesch, appeared in the 2012 edition with old stories of Justinian events of the of Super Lawyers and we republish it here for past, including many memorable evenings obvious reasons, since it includes the efforts of two of our most senior members, Enrico at the Palmer House and at the Como Inn. Mirabelli and Antonio Romanucci, and our We also shared experiences that are com- dear pal, Jack Carey.] mon to Saggi, such as loss of memory, inability to sleep late, etc. If our motto above is correct, we may never leave that table at our next meeting, which will be in January.

[Editor’s note: Since the October 2011 dinner, another “Saggi Dinner” occurred. Unfortunately, it was the last public event for our revered past President Hon. An- gelo Mistretta – who passed away shortly The Honorable Gino L. DiVito received the after this event. It made us realize how 2011 Justice Leadership Award at the TASC From le : Jack Carey, Judge Nello Gamber- dino, and Franco Coladipietro. fl eeting life is and to be sure to schedule (Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communi- these wonderful dinners, regularly and ties) Leadership Awards Luncheon in Chicago far into the future. On May 5, 2009, Sheri Coleman and her on December 6. DiVito, chairman of the Illi- two young sons, Garett and Gavin, were found strangled in their Columbia home. Exactly Again, on February 20, 2012, another nois Sentencing Policy Advisory Council and two years later, a jury convicted Chris Cole- “Saggi Dinner” took place, again with retired justice of the Illinois Appellate Court, man of killing his 31-year-old wife and their Dick and Mike arranging the invitation list was recognized for his leadership and support 11- and 9-year-old sons. and restaurant arrangements – this time of evidence-based sentencing practices. While the former Marine is now serving at, arguably, the best Sicilian restaurant a life sentence, a related civil case remains in the Chicagoland area, Fiorentino’s, unresolved. The day before the verdict in 2901 N. Ashland. Run by the wife and son In accepting the award, Justice DiVito ac- the criminal trial, Sheri’s mother and brother of career Justinian Steve, we were treated knowledged the collective efforts involved fi led a wrongful death suit against Joyce like royalty. We ate like kings, the entrees, in providing supervised drug treatment and Meyer Ministries, a Missouri-based Christian appetizers and desserts were delicious recovery support for defendants with non- organization where Coleman worked as tel- and the wine, selected by past President evangelist Joyce Meyer’s bodyguard. The suit violent offenses. accuses the ministry of failing to investigate Len DeFranco, to die for. Dick and Mike the source of emailed death threats and failing even extended the invite to include some “We are inspired by the stories of those to warn the victims that their lives were in of our “younger” distinguished members, danger. Defendants also include Coleman, Antonio Romanucci and Franco Coladipi- who have recovered and those who are in Joyce Meyer, and her son, Dan Meyer. etro, and opened up the event to include recovery,” he said. “And we are grateful “This really is an extremely signifi cant a DuPage past Justinian President, Ed for those who dedicate themselves to their theory: You’re going after a religious orga- Levato. recovery—the people of TASC, the people nization to impose corporate liability,” says Enrico J. Mirabelli, a family law attorney inspired by TASC, and all of those who work The warmth and camaraderie in the room with Beermann Pritikin Mirabelli Swerdlove was heartfelt. With our senior past Presi- to serve others.” who became involved in the case because he dent in attendance to make the welcoming is Sheri’s cousin. Mirabelli used a similar claim of corporate liability in 1986 when toast, the beloved Anthony Fornelli, all of he fi led a suit for a woman who was bitten us embraced one another, fi guratively and by an HIV-positive airline-ticket agent after actually. These events are truly heartfelt, being told she couldn’t board. welcomed, and, with Caldo and Mike’s Shortly after the Coleman murders, Mira- continued leadership, will extend well belli called his friend Jack Carey, a Belleville into the future.] civil litigator, to join the case. They later

ConƟ nued on page 23

PAGE 22 Crisis, conƟ nued from page 22 brought in Chicago personal injury attorney Mary Ann Hynes Antonio M. Romanucci, with Romanucci & Blandin. Paves the Way “I was in the home within a day or two of the [Editor’s Note: This article, written by Cathleen murders and it was overwhelming,” says Carey. “It is an absolutely beautiful, upper-middle-class Flahardy, originally appeared in InsideCounsel home, a home that any American would be proud Magazine.] to own, would be blessed to live in. I was in the boys’ bedrooms and there are their toys; just as One day, while Mary Ann Hynes was still in they left them - banners on the wall: Chicago high school, she From le : Enrico Mirabelli and Jack Cerone. White Sox, other sports teams. I mean, it was eavesdropped just so queer to know that these children had when the phone calls come in. on a conversa- been strangled in their beds in this lovely setting. “From a personal point of view, it was very tion between … I walked out of the house after seeing that, rewarding to be able to provide some unique her mother and and the news reporters were outside—they had legal assistance at a time when it was very much her brother. Her their big dishes up and everything—and I could necessary.” brother was in not say anything. It was just too surreal. I just Carey and Mirabelli say they received could not respond to their ‘What’d you see?’” college major- anonymous phone calls from employees at Joyce At the criminal trial, prosecutors argued that ing in physics Meyer Ministries who believed the organization Coleman killed his family rather than divorce at the time. He should have protected Sheri and her sons, and Sheri to be with a girlfriend in Florida because had gotten all that the Colemans had received counseling at he feared he might lose his $100,000-a-year job As on his report the ministry. with the evangelical Christian organization. The With this new information, the attorneys card, except for civil suit says the ministry knew—or should added Joyce Meyer Ministries as a respondent one B, in thermodynamics. “If you only applied have known—that Coleman posed a threat to for discovery—though not a defendant—in the yourself more, put in the extra effort, you would his family. original suit against Coleman. have gotten all As,” she remembers her mother Carey says it is his understanding that Cole- “The ministry fought us from day one,” Carey saying with conviction, making thermodynamics man told some co-workers about emailed threats says. “They wouldn’t produce anything without sounds as easy as social studies. At this point, he had received against himself and his family. It a court order. They did not want any hearings was later discovered that the emails came from Hynes popped in, “Mom, could you explain it in open court.” an account Coleman had created on a ministry- to me? What exactly is thermodynamics?” Her He remembers requesting information about owned computer. Carey believes the ministry’s mother stared back at her, a hint of confusion whether the ministry provided family counsel- webmaster tries to trace the source of emailed in her eyes, then sternly said, “Mary Ann, get ing for Coleman, Sheri or both. The ministry, threats against Joyce Meyer. “But they didn’t do out of here. This doesn’t concern you.” Hynes he says, answered “no.” Carey confronted them that for the benefi t of Sheri and her two boys,” with the information they had received from the chuckled and did as she was told. he says. “We also know that [some] employees phone callers. “I was told, ‘well, you didn’t ask Despite the fact that Hynes’ parents weren’t of the ministry knew that Sheri was in fear for about marital counseling,’” Carey says. highly educated professionals, they made edu- her life.” Romanucci was brought in for the current cation a priority for their two children as they Adds Romanucci, “It’s not only a matter of lawsuit, which he fi led and is handling along with were growing up. And the lesson was not lost whether they [the ministry] knew about it; it’s Carey. Mirabelli is now acting solely as spokes- on Hynes. whether they knew or should have known about person for the family. Joyce Meyers Ministries this. We’re talking about Sheri’s ex-husband As an undergrad, she studied math and po- has asked for dismissal of the suit, challenging being the head of security for Joyce Meyer litical science, which she thought was a good the jurisdiction of the Illinois courts. Meanwhile, Ministries, and you’re having the fox rule in preparation for law school. While in law school, the ministry is dealing with a lawsuit fi led by its the henhouse.” Hynes quickly realized she had a passion for insurance company, which has refused to pay The lawsuit was fi led a day short of the two- business and made an unusual decision. Rather the legal bills in the wrongful death suit. The year statute of limitations, bolstered by facts that ministry denies any impropriety in the Coleman than take the usual law fi rm track directly out came out during the criminal trial. An earlier case, and Meyer has said she was unaware that of law school, she was going to go after an wrongful death suit had been fi led in 2009, but Coleman was having an affair. in-house position. And when she graduated in a variety of complications—including attorney Says Romanucci of why he got involved in 1971, that’s exactly what she did. health issues, tight deadlines and a diffi cult the case: “Some justice had to be done some- “The day after I took the bar, I went to Com- discovery process—led to its dismissal. where.” merce Clearinghouse (CCH) on the recommen- Mirabelli had to balance his personal and professional roles in the case. dation of a friend, and they asked when I could “You have to wear two hats,” he says. “You start,” Hynes explains. “I said tomorrow!” That try to compartmentalize—what do you do as a was the beginning of a 25-year career with the spokesperson and lawyer, a spokesperson with tax-services company. legal knowledge—because you want to make Recognizing her talent as a lawyer and her sure early on in the matter that you’re not giving savvy with business matters on a global scale, statements that might prejudice the investiga- CCH named Hynes vice president and general tion. Not everybody has a lawyer in the family who’s sitting there during the grieving process ConƟ nued on page 24

PAGE 23 Hynes, conƟ nued from page 23 Giuseppe Tornatore of Bagheria

What do Sam Tornatore, Nina Albano Vid- mer, Vincent Vidmer, Dominic Fichera, Joe Gagliardo, Len DeFranco, Lou Cairo, Jack LaBrasca, Steve Phillips, and other prominent Justinians and members of our ethnic community have in common? They all trace their roots to one of the larger “small” towns “just outside of Palermo,” in Sicily, the town From le , Cris na Mungai, Gloria Coco, Jessica of Bagheria. For that reason, we republish in part, herein, the story of Giuseppe Tornatore, DePinto, Katherine Amari O’Dell, and MaryAnn (cousin of Sam, Nina and Vincent), prominent Hynes. Sicilian movie producer, that appeared in the December 2011 edition of Fra Noi. counsel in 1979. At 32, she was the Fortune By: Jeannine Guilyard 500’s fi rst-ever woman general counsel. Giuseppe Tornatore was born on May 27, Since her successful tenure with CCH, Hynes 1956, in Bagheria, in the province of Palermo, has held a number of GC positions at respected Sicily. He started his career at the tender age of global companies, including IMC Global Inc. 16, making his directorial debut in theater. and Wolters Kluwer. Since 2007, Hynes has Tornatore worked in theater for years, and also did some freelance photography before he stood at the helm of the legal department of dived into cinema. His fi rst cinematic effort was Corn Products, a global agricultural company with the documentary “Le minoranze etniche based in Illinois. in Sicilia” (The Ethnic Minority in Sicily.) Q: Tell me about being named the fi rst woman The fi lm was well reviewed and opened doors GC of a Fortune 500 company. for him to make his fi rst feature in 1985, “Il Camorista.” Just three years later came his epic A: CCH had on its board some very distin- effort, which is now considered a contemporary The Tornatore butcher shop in Bagheria has guished individuals who knew what they were classic, “Nuovo Cinema Paradiso” (Cinema been at the same loca on for more than 150 doing when they appointed me as GC. Paradiso). The fi lm, which won an Academy years. Sam Tornatore, center; with his cousins I was not aware that I was the only woman Award, is still loved to this day by audiences Gian Paolo and Gian Piero Tornatore. in this category, but when I joined the ABA’s all over the world. Starring Marco Leonardi and Philippe Noiret, the story focuses on an GC committee, I was an unusual person in the unlikely but lifetime friendship between a boy room. There were less than a handful of women who loves cinema and a projectionist at the local and none were at Fortune 500 companies. movie theater. The fi lm was shot in Tornatore’s My superiors surprised me by actually taking hometown of Bagheria and is a visual and poetic that action—making me a part of the executive love letter to cinema itself. The soundtrack was done by legendary Italian composer Ennio Mor- team. Not only was I the only female, but I was ricone, and is the perfect accompaniment to a also 20 years younger than everyone else. Many sentimental and beautiful coming-of-age fi lm. companies were not used to seeing a woman Tornatore has spent the last decade making in law, but as GC? It was almost unheard of. socially conscious fi lms that mirror the issues People have been tremendously supportive. of the citizens of Italy in general and Sicily in particular. In 2009, he released “Baarìa,” an From le , Joseph Gagliardo and Steve Phillips, Being in-house is a wonderful experience. autobiographical epic spanning three genera- who trace their roots to Bagheria. Q: What obstacles did you encounter on tions in his hometown of Bagheria. It’s a moving your way up? story with equal amounts of comedy and drama A: I always joke that I attribute my success that revels in the idiosyncrasies of the people he to having an older brother who never cut me grew up with and the rich ironies of life in this teeming southern town. Just as “Nuovo Cinema any slack. Paradiso” is a love letter to cinema, “Baarìa” is You have to be a negotiator. I wanted a fam- a love letter to Tornatore’s land, and celebrates ily. My CEO said you can have it all. He was the strong connection he has to his roots. just perceiving what the circumstances were. Giuseppe Tornatore is very private and rarely He wasn’t someone who spoon-fed you, but does interviews. He has been fi rm in letting his work speak for itself. Many of his fi lms are enabled you. considered modern masterpieces, so audiences I’ve learned in my career not to be afraid. and critics all over the world are indeed listening The biggest limitations can be self imposed. and watching, and because of that worldwide You have to be fearless and have your compass appeal, many of his fi lms are readily available in the right spot, but don’t limit yourself. for rent and purchase on this side of the Atlantic as well. Nina Albano Vidmer (center) with her cousins, Lida and Sandra Tornatore, in Bagheria.

PAGE 24 Michael F. Bonamarte IV

by the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association, the By: Leonard F. Amari Chicago Bar Association, the Illinois Institute of Continuing Legal Education, the National “Success at any age is impressive. But to Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, as well as achieve it at an early age is even more of a several senior citizen groups in the Chicago feat.” land area. For the eleventh straight year, the 40 Under Michael joins many bright professionals 40 Committee at the Law Bulletin Publishing from our community who have been honored Company sifted through hundreds and hundreds with this 40/40 recognition, including John of nomination forms to select 40 of the most Sciaccotta, Gamrath (both Celia and Rob), talented young attorneys in Illinois. This is the Franco Coladipietro, Gregory Conforti, An- preeminent legal publication in the state of Il- thony Masciopinto, David Bonoma, Colleen linois. Brian Monico, Jon DeMoss, and Michael Scimeca, Anita Ventrelli, John M. Spesia, Kath- The standards applied in the selection process Bonamarte. erine Amari O’Dell, John Storino, Kenneth C. include: intelligence, passion, success in the of- Apicella, Peter M. Spingola, and Christopher fi ce, a desire to help the community, and, most "He is genuinely concerned with the clients Carani. importantly, a willingness to work hard at one he represents, feeling their pain, understand- Another example of the best our community of the country’s most important professions. ing their misery and ... compensating them as has to offer. These standards absolutely apply to Michael best he can," says Katherine O’Dell of Amari F. Bonamarte. & Locallo and previous recipient of this 40/40 As an active law student participant and recognition (2007). O’Dell says Bonamarte product of our wonderful Justinian Society has succeeded in these cases because of his law student mentoring program, it is especially work ethic. "Rarely is there an early evening pleasing that Michael F. Bonamarte received or weekend when Michael is not working on a 2010 40/40 recognition. At age 31, he was fi les, preparing for depositions, and putting the youngest to be so recognized this year and 100 percent of his heart and soul into his being one of the youngest so chosen in the history of an outstanding contributor to the fi rm," Amari HELP WANTED! this achievement. Michael F. Bonamarte IV, a says. personal injury lawyer at Levin & Perconti, is The ability to relate to people plays a big role achieving success at a young age. He already in achieving success in the practice area We always have a number has won millions of dollars in verdicts and of personal injury law. Those who have seen of resumes of young lawyers settlements. Bonamarte at work say his personal touch with A nominator for the award said of Michael, clients is a big reason for his success. Success- and law students at local law “A shining star in a diffi cult business.” ful in just about everything he has attempted, schools seeking law clerk In several cases, Bonamarte, 31, has won $1 Michael was a three sport varsity athlete of million or more for clients. Highland Park High School – being the starting posi ons. One verdict handed $2.9 million to the fam- quarterback and captain of his football team, ily of a 57-year-old woman who died from achieving All Conference and Chicago Sun suffocation due to a nursing home's negligent Times All Area recognition. Michael was re- There are also individu- care of her tracheostomy tube. After the trial, cently married to Julia Bonamarte (nee Sawma), als looking for secretarial the defendants settled for $3.6 million, the ad- and traces his Italian roots to the Piedmont ditional payment representing attorney’s fees region on his great-great grandfather Luigi’s or assistant posi ons in a under the Nursing Home Care Act. The case, side and Naples on his great-great grandmother law fi rm se ng, most with which Bonamarte handled with senior partner Antonia Marsicana’s side. Bonamarte's father Steven Levin, was Bonamarte's fi rst jury trial. was also an attorney. After the elder Bonamarte previous experience in a law In another case brought by Bonamarte, a woman unexpectedly died from a stroke in 2006, the offi ce. died from complications after developing 23 son founded the Michael F. Bonamarte III pressure sores and multiple infections while Foundation to raise awareness and money for living at an assisted-living facility in Chicago. stroke prevention and research. Interested par es can con- The case ended with her family receiving a $2.3 Michael comes from a well known and highly million settlement. respected Lake County, Illinois family. His tact the Editor, Leonard F. "It is rare to fi nd a young attorney with the grandfather, Michael, Jr., was the Police Chief of Amari at 312-255-8550 or abilities and depth of experience that Mike pos- Highland Park for nearly 40 years – the last fi ve sesses," Steven Levin, a managing partner of as the head of the police and fi re department. The [email protected]. the fi rm, says. "Despite his age, Mike possesses newly renovated Highland Park police station advanced trial preparation and trial advocacy is named after him, the Michael F. Bonamarte skills that make him an integral part of our Jr. Public Safety Center. His great-grandfather, A lis ng of those seeking litigation team. There is no aspect of the trial Michael Sr., was born in New York and ended posi ons are also listed on process that Mike cannot confi dently handle.” up in Highland Park where he became a sergeant A respected Circuit Court trial judge says and fi nger print expert with the police force. our website, along with of Bonamarte: "He is always extremely well- When he is not working on behalf of his cli- their resumes. View them at prepared and is a true expert in this area of law.” ents, Bonamarte mentors law students at John "These cases are hard to try, and he had an excel- Marshall Law School, where he earned his law www.jus nians.org. lent result for his client." "He thoroughly works degree in 2005. Bonamarte also writes a regular up his cases," another judge says. "Michael is column for the Justinian Society Newsletter, and tenacious when it comes to discovery." he has given speeches at seminars sponsored

PAGE 25 Ferdinand P. Serpe : Born to Lead Nello V. Ferrara By: Leonard F. Amari By: Leonard F. Amari This month we highlight, posthumously, In this issue, we highlight the distinguished the distinguished career of a giant in the busi- career of leadership and accomplishments of ness world, a trail blazer, and a legend in the Fred Serpe – the leader of the political voice of Italian American community. Nello V. Ferrara our ethnic community in the State of Illinois – passed, after a full and successful life, in early the president of the Italian American Political February, 2012. Mr. Ferrara was chairman of Coalition. the board of Ferrara Pan Candy Company of From the time he graduated from The John Forest Park, Illinois, which was founded by his Marshall Law School in 1984, Serpe has dem- father, Salvatore Ferrara in 1908. onstrated leadership skills, successes and accom- Completing plishments in numerous positions. His fi rst role his education as a lawyer was as an assistant Illinois Attorney From le : Fred Serpe, Leonard Amari and Hon. in 1942, when General in the Revenue Litigation Division. An Peter Silvestri. he graduated example of his demonstration of leadership was from DePaul as executive director of the Illinois Transportation annual bocce tournaments, etc., have all been University Association from 1987 to 2001, involving himself well attended. His will be a diffi cult act to fol- Law School, in lobbying, legislation and related responsibili- low.” earning his ties. He presently is the senior partner of the law In addition to lecturing to lawyers and busi- Doctorate of fi rm of Serpe, Dizonno, Reboletti & Associates, nessman in his areas of experience and expertise, Juris Prudence, Ltd, a general practice and very successful and Serpe has published numerous learned treatises: Nello Ferrara respected law fi rm with offi ces in Maywood, Illinois Workers Rights (2002), A History of subsequently Itasca, and Arlington Heights. Trucking in Illinois (co-author, 1988), The Il- became a Evidence of Fred’s leadership is demonstrated linois Lobbyist Registration System (for the Il- member of the by the professional organizations in which he linois Secretary of State’s Index Department). Illinois Bar. At participates and exerts leadership. He is a senior Of his roots, Fred says: “After fi ghting in the that time, there statesman and infl uential member of The Justin- pacifi c theater as a Marine 1st division, my father were probably less than 100 lawyers of Italian ian Society of (Italian) Lawyers, impacting in Ferdinand (whose family came from Cosenza, descent practicing in Illinois. its direction for almost 30 years. He presently Calabria, in 1904) opened his fi rst fl ower shop Nello distinguished himself in World War II serves as Secretary of the West Suburban Bar on Taylor and Halsted called Flowers by Fer- where he served his country from 1942 to 1946 Association, where he also served on its Board dinand. My father met and married my mother in the Counter-Intelligence Corps of the United of Governors from 2003 to 2007. He has been Elizabeth Natale (whose family came from States Army, assigned to the pre-trial work of active in the 32,000 member Illinois State Bar Potenza, Basilicata) and began a fi fty one year the Japanese War Crimes Trials in Japan. Association, where he served by presidential ap- love affair and partnership of fl oral design and Upon his return from service in the Army, pointment to its Banking and Regulatory Section raising two children, me and my sister Elizabeth. he resumed an active role in the family-owned Council and Public Utilities and Transportation Of the many memories of Taylor Street, the candy business, manufacturing panned candies Law Committee. one that stands out the most is how ALIVE the exclusively. His associates and colleagues have Serpe also gave back to his law school, John street was with vendors and people shopping long recognized his dedication to the candy Marshall, having served as a director of its and walking. Ladies yelling down from second world. He has always been an extremely ac- Alumni Board for a decade – 1984-1994. fl oor windows. Life was beautiful. In 1960, tive and enthusiastic member of confectionary To list all of Fred’s public service efforts and Flowers by Ferdinand relocated to Chicago trade organizations, devoting many hours to contribution during his distinguished career Avenue. In 1970, the third relocation of Flowers the interests of the candy industry. In fact, he would be a daunting task, but some are compel- by Ferdinand was in Elmwood Park. is a recognized legend in that industry, a trail ling to be mentioned, including: special counsel to Growing up in the family business was hard blazer. Addison Township, the municipality of Calumet work and richly rewarding. We would open William Davy, a young promising lawyer and City and the Westchester Park District. He com- presents on Christmas morning in our home in active Justinian Society of (Italian) Lawyers pliments Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White’s Galewood, and then all go to the shop to make member, says of his “Poppie” (Grandfather), offi ce as chairman of its Merit Commission. For funeral fl owers arrangements for the many wakes the entrepreneur, “Much of his success was pos- Cook County Clerk Dorothy Brown, he serves that evening. When I was 16, my parents said sible because of the bonds that he created with on an Industry Advisory Committee. He serves that they were fi nally taking a vacation together. his employees. He treated them with respect, the Cook County court system as a volunteer As they handed me the keys my father just said, appreciated their hard work and made sure that arbitrator in the 1st and 4th Municipal Districts smiling, ‘don’t burn the place down.’ I then they were well compensated for it. Whether it as well as a hearing offi cer for the village of learned what it took to run a business success- be a Vice President, or factory worker, he broke Norridge. fully, to deal with customers, employees, and bread with them almost every day at the plant in Richard Pellegrino, president-elect of the wholesalers. It was an incredible experience that Forest Park. I had lunch with him almost every IAPC, says of Serpe: “Fred is indefatigable. I carry with me today in my own storefront legal day for 3 or 4 years while I was working there, After having served as a board member since the shops – quality product and service at a fair and that’s where I learned the most from him.” inception and now as its president, he has had a reasonable price. And most importantly, to give After serving as Chairman of the 1965 NCA full agenda. Every event he promoted during his of yourself to others and those organizations that Convention in Chicago, he was elected to the tenure, every activity, has been an overwhelming help our Italian American community.” board of directors of that association, where he success – such is its annual Judges’ reception. Another example of the best our community served for six years and subsequently served His social activities, monthly board meetings, has to offer. ConƟ nued on page 27

PAGE 26 Ferrara, conƟ nued from page 26 as vice president. This was followed by two Italian American Reconstructing terms as Chairman of the Board of the National Confectioners Association. Studies Program Italians in Chicago: Nello Ferrara’s devoted efforts and agile, Thirty Authors in Search of Roots inventive mind have accomplished miracles By: Dominic Candeloro in every fi eld of endeavor: business, civic and Italian American history and culture is at and Branches Book edited by Dominic Candeloro and risk of being lost. As we move into the 21st fraternal, bringing success to those projects Fred L. Gardaphè which share his interest. Century, we are more than 100 years away Among one of Nello’s most cherished awards from the original emigration, two generations Book Review is the coveted “Knight of Malta,” bestowed removed from thriving Little Italies – their By: Jessica DePinto on him by the late Pope John XXIII. He also churches, businesses and other institutions, 2 cherishes the National Confectioners Associa- generations from widespread fl uency among The anthology tion “Distinguished Service Award,” received Italian American. Today, there are few formal features short in 1970 for outstanding leadership and devotion institutions for the systematic collection, dis- stories, autobio- of time, talent and energies in the development semination, and preservation of information of NCA programs and services on behalf of the about Italian American culture. If we don’t do graphical sketch- NCA and the confectionery industry. In June something bold soon, for all practical purposes, es, and histori- 1975 he was honored to receive the annual it will be lost. cal accounts of “Kettle Award” and named “Candy Industry Up to now, the “market” for Italian American growing up Ital- Man of the Year” for his dedicated activities on studies has drawn widespread support. There are ian-American in behalf of the confectionery industry, with special Italian American Studies programs at Queens Chicago. It is the emphasis on his achievements as chairman of College (Distinguished Professorship), CUNY, first publishing SUNY Stony Brook (D’Amato Chair), Seton the board of NCA. venture by the Italian Cultural Center Davy goes on to say about his grandfather: “He Hall (LaMotta), John Carroll (Bishop Pilla), Cal was the ultimate role model. He was successful, State at Long Beach (Graziadio), Brooklyn Col- since the 1970s and an impressive effort he was fair, he was honest, he gave credit where lege, Monclaire State (Inserra), among others. to capture the memories and ambitions credit was due, his integrity was unmatched, but With some very notable exceptions, most of the of a distinct sub-culture within Chicago’s most of all he was fun and people loved him for programs focus more on Italian language and diverse history. that. I never met anybody who had a bad word culture than Italian American material. In any Divided into fi ve sections, including the to say about Poppie.” case, there is precedent for Italian American introduction, the editors weave histori- individuals and organizations (especially Unico In 1961, due to his successful efforts in cal, sociological and fi ctional accounts establishing a home for the aged, namely Villa National) to raise funds to support endowed Scalabrini in Northlake, Illinois, Nello was programs in the fi eld. Most of the campaigns to arrive at a common experience for honored by the president of the Italian Republic took fi ve years to collect the necessary funds Siciliani,Calabresi, Pugliesi, Napoletani, and knighted a “Cavalier to the Order of Merit – usually some $2 million. Modenesi e Lucchesi. of the Republic.” His humanitarian efforts and Our proposal is to establish a campaign to Section Two explores the Italian immi- deep interest in the economic development of raise $1 million to create an Italian American grant experience of the early 20th century, the State of Israel resulted in his being awarded studies tenured endowed professorship with when many of our ancestors came to Chi- the “Israel Prime Minister’s Medal” in June of the stipulation that the material being treated cago. In Chicago’s Little Sicily, professor 1971. In June 1980, he was presented the “Hu- consist of the history and culture of Italians in man Relations Award” by The American Jewish the migration process and the subsequent body Robert Lombardo, recounts the history of Committee. of material that relates to the experience of the an area that no longer exists, except in the In spite of his numerous accomplishments, transplanted immigrants in the United States. hearts and minds of its former residents. Nello Ferrara remained a humble, unassuming A further stipulation is that the holder of the Little Sicily or Little Hell, as it was also individual, never seeking to be recognized or professorship cooperate closely with the Casa known, was on the Near North Side. While singled out for praise or honor. Italia, Inc., in a mutual relationship regarding the area was stricken with poverty and Grandson Bill went on to say “I was and libraries, language instruction, publishing, crime, Professor Lombardo explains that music programming, AP exam preparation, always will be proud to be his grandson, but the “Little Hell” moniker actually derived not just because of his success in the candy language immersion events, fi lm festivals and industry. His generosity with his money, his other public programming. from the fl ames of the gas house furnace time and his talent, has transformed the lives There are some 350,000 Italian Americans in that created the “Dantesque” landscape. of so many people. When I meet someone who the Chicago area and about that many in the rest The area was razed by poorly executed was a recipient of that open hearted kindness of Illinois. The vast majority can be classifi ed public housing programs. All that remains and they tell me their story, that is when I am as middle class or better. There are over 200 of the Little Sicily era is the former Saint most proud to be his grandson. ” clubs and organizations of various sizes in the Philip Benizi School. Chicago area. Major institutions in the com- It was fi tting that only a few months before Chicago is fortunate to have one of his passing, Nello V. Ferrara was installed in munity include the Casa Italia, the Joint Civic the elite Executive Hall of Fame at Casa Italia, Committee of Italian Americans, a half dozen America’s best fi ction writers, Tony our Italian-American community headquarters Italian Catholic Churches run by the Scalabrini Romano. He is the author of the novel, in Stone Park, Illinois. Fathers, the Justinian Society of Lawyers, the When the World Was Young. His stories Nello and his wife, Marilyn, are parents of Columbian Club, the Italian American Chamber recount the Italian-American experience three children: Serajean Alioto, Salvatore II and of Commerce, and a score of other city-wide of the Grand and Ashland Avenue neigh- Nella Davy. They have eight grandchildren and organizations of substance. two great grandchildren. Continued on page 28

PAGE 27 Book review, continued from page 28 Tort Notes: Court upholds Common Fund Doctrine for attorneys fees. Wajnberg v. Wunglueck, 2011 IL App. (Second) 110190

By: James J. Morici, Jr. ation. Ritter v. Hachmeister, 356 Ill.App.3d 926, 930 (2005). Illinois law The Appellate Court found the central ques- reflects the long tion to be whether or not Erie promptly and standing general unequivocally notifi ed Plaintiff and/or his rule that the pre- attorneys that it desired to represent its own vailing party bears subrogation claim. The Court stated that that the cost of litiga- inquiry was critical because the Common Fund tion, unless oth- Doctrine applies where the insurers notifi cation erwise provided is equivocal in that the insurer requests payment for in a statute or from the Plaintiff upon settlement of its claim by agreement be- against the Defendant, citing Ritter. Wajnberg tween the parties. at. Page 6. The Common Fund The Court found that Erie, in writing asked Doctrine, which is an exception to the general Farmers, the tort feasors insurance company rule, allows an attorney who “creates, preserves, to protect its interest at the time of settlement. or increases the value of a fund in which others The Court stated that that showed that Erie was Dominic Candeloro presents his book at a have an ownership interest to be reimbursed aware that there was a claim pending or one that conference. from that fund for litigation expenses incurred, would be made by the Plaintiff. The Court noted including counsel fees.” Morris B. Chapman that the letter in question may also reasonably be borhoods of the 1950s. The story in the & Associates, Ltd. v. Kitzmann, 193 Ill.2nd interpreted as refl ecting Erie’s desire to assert a anthology, When the Rains Come, tells 560, 572-73 (2000). The Doctrine is based lien for its medical payments to Plaintiff at the the story of a young, university-educated on the Court’s inherent equitable powers and time of any settlement. The Court held that Erie’s man who returns to his Italian village, San the rational that fees and expenses incurred in letter was not an unequivocal instruction such Salvatore. He falls in love with Lucia, a creating the fund be apportioned among those as a proper Tenney letter. Tenney v. American girl from the village. Because of the girl who benefi t from its creation (citations omit- Family Mutual Insurance Company, 128 Ill. ted). Wajnberg v. Wunglueck, 2011 IL App. App.3d 121 (1984). Id. at Page 8. Further, Erie who loves him and his hope for a more (Second) 110190, Page 5. was on notice of the fi ling of Plaintiff’s suit inviting future – he is in confl ict between That general rule and its application to the after the Inter-Insurance Company Arbitration two worlds: roots and soaring branches. Court’s jurisdiction to adjudicate a medical Forum had granted the tort feasors insurance Leonard Amari recounts the stories of payment’s lien was the subject addressed company’s deferment request. Even then Erie his youth, his perspective on education and in Wajnberg. The Appellant, Erie Insurance did not send a proper letter to the parties, but what it meant (still means) for a generation Company, paid benefi ts to its insured under instead sent a letter only to the arbitration forum of young men and women who strive to the medical expenses portion of its automobile claiming that it was protected under the arbitra- elevate their lives yet retain their fi delity insurance policy. Subsequently, the insurance tion agreement and requesting that the attorney company sought reimbursement from a tort not include its recovery in any suit and that the to the neighborhoods and the people that feasors insurer through intercompany arbitra- tort feasor’s insurance carrier directly pay Erie formed them. My favorite line in My tion. During that same time, Plaintiff fi led an for its medical payments subrogation amount. Father was a Damon Runyon Character action against the Defendant, settled for an Id. Page 8. is: “when I go through the names at the amount which included the medical payments It was only after Plaintiff moved to adjudicate end of the movies, I look for Italian made by Erie, and then moved to adjudicate the lien that Erie argued to Plaintiff and his at- Americans.” My dad and I really started Erie’s lien. The Trial Court granted Plaintiff’s torneys that it desired no part in the settlement to like Woody Allen when we noticed that Motion to Adjudicate pursuant to the Common proceeds. Finally, at no time did Erie act in Fund Doctrine and reduced the insurer’s lien meaningful participation in the creation of the his cinematographers were Dante Ferretti by one-third. The Court found that Erie never settlement nor did they argue such before the and Carlo Di Palma. gave the Plaintiff, his attorneys, or Defendant’s Trial or Appellate Court, thus the Court did not In Researching Taylor Street: Chicago’s insured notice that it intended to collect its err in applying the Common Fund Doctrine. Little Italy, journalists Kathy Catrambone subrogation claim on its own, that it did not Id. and Ellen Shubart, were both editors of want the assistance of Plaintiff’s counsel, and specialized publications for Crain Com- that its claim should not be included in any [Editor’s Note: James J. Morici, Jr. is a partner munications, Inc. Their essay recounts settlement. Id. in the fi rm of MORICI, FIGLIOLI & ASSOCI- The Court noted that case law involving the ATES, and represents Plaintiffs in personal their strategies for conducting compre- Common Fund Doctrine invariably addresses injury, workers’ compensation, and construction hensive research in libraries and live two issues: the promptness and clarity of an site related injury suits. Read all prior issues of interviews. Kathy Catrambone is a native insurers notice that it would represent its own “Tort Notes” at www.MoriciFiglioli.com.] of the Taylor Street neighborhood. subrogation interest and whether the insurer meaningfully participated in the Fund’s cre-

PAGE 28 Elder Law Update: IP Corner “Senior” Estate Planning versus Traditional Estate Planning America Invents Act By: Anthony B. Ferraro By: Angelina Filippo President Obama signed the America Invents As we are all painfully aware, life hap- Act on September 16, 2011. The Act is the pens and life changes. So, must your estate culmination of years of squabbling within the plan. For example, the things we discussed Houses of Congress on how to revamp the Patent Offi ce. The most signifi cant reform with our doctor at age 35 are quite different of the Patent Act since 1952, it makes many than the matters we discuss with our doctor changes to Patent Offi ce operations and some at age 75. So too it is with your estate plan. rather signifi cant changes to the practice of Simply put, the estate plan that you created patent law. for yourself at age 35 should be substantially One of the biggest changes is that the United States is now aligned with different than the the estate plan you need the rest of the patent world in becoming a “fi rst to fi le” country. The United at age 75. How so, you ask? States has always been a “fi rst to invent” country regarding priority of pat- There are three phases to planning for life and three types of planning ent applications. The “fi rst to invent” philosophy allowed a fi rst inventor to to address those phases. See the table below. conceive a design, work diligently at refi ning it and then receive a patent If you already have done a traditional estate plan, it is very likely that on his application ahead of a second inventor fi ling the same application as you approach retirement age, your traditional estate plan needs to be before him. As long as the fi rst inventor was diligent throughout his inventive modifi ed into what we call a “senior” estate plan. process, conception to application, this fi rst inventor beat the earlier-fi led application of the second inventor of the same invention since he began inventing fi rst. The fi rst inventor would “swear behind” the second inventor’s application. Issues regarding who invented fi rst were resolved with interference proceedings. Beginning March 16, 2013, the “fi rst to fi le” rule will make application priority a physical (or electronic) race to the Patent Offi ce. There will no longer be claims to prior inventing; swearing behind will be gone and the second applicant will LOSE the race. Patent litigators will have a new song and dance to master called a derivation proceeding (replacing interference proceedings). Attorneys may have to look to foreign case law for tips on how to argue the “we got there fi rst” point. Solo inventors should take serious note of the following change -- the creation of the “micro-entity.” Currently in effect, an inventor qualifying for “micro-entity” status receives a 75% discount on some Patent Offi ce This is where the GAP in most people's planning occurs. You see, most fees. Large- and small- entity classifi cations still exist; those qualifying for traditional estate plans provide for death only, but as we have seen with “small entity” status receive a 50% discount. The micro-entity discount is offered to inventors who are named on four or fewer patent applications, many of our friends and family, life is not always predictable. For example, did not have a gross income exceeding three times the median household between now, when all is manageable, and the time of our death, there in the previous year, qualify for small entity status, and have not nor are could be a long period of time (a GAP) during which long-term care is obligated to assign, license or convey same patent rights to an entity earn- needed. It is this period of time, or GAP, that “senior” estate planning ing more than three times the median household in the previous year. deals with in a way which traditional estate planning cannot. Also in effect is a provision creating incentive for applicants to fi le elec- What does this mean for you? It means that you need a “senior” estate tronically. E-fi lers will not pay the $400 ($200 for small entity) paper plan that will consist of one of the following: fi ling fee. There are some exemptions to this fee; details are found on the 1. A Pre-plan - When you or your spouse have at least fi ve years Patent Offi ce website. to protect assets; Many more provisions were passed, some presently in effect, others on 2. A “Wait and See” plan - When there is a recent diagnosis of a a rolling effective date. Please see the Patent Offi ce website www.uspto. debilitating illness where some legal work must be done now, but other gov for more information on the Act and its implementation. legal work can be deferred, or [Editor’s Note: IP Corner provides insight to the world of intellectual 3. A Crisis plan - When you must immediately have in place all property law. Angelina M. Filippo has a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering the tools to protect you, your family and your assets from a long-term and an LL.M. in Intellectual Property Law. Her practice concentrates care spend down crisis either due to the devastating cost of care in your on intellectual property law and small business/entrepreneurial matters. home, assisted living, or a nursing home. Contact her at 4fi [email protected] or 312.307.3910 or see her profi le on In short, you must consider solutions for that stage of your life during www.linkedin.com.] which you require long-term healthcare. It does not matter where you choose to live. And these long term care concerns are probably not addressed in your existing traditional estate plan at this time. Until next month, please be well.

PAGE 29 Proof without a “Proof of Loss” Promoting Your Law By: Gina M. Rossi, Access fi led a complaint for declaratory judg- Johnson & Bell, Ltd. ment arguing that the arbitration demand was Firm’s Brand untimely. Id. at 236. The defendant claimed that By: Robin Iori Any insurance policy you come across these the two-year limitation period was tolled by days will contain a suit fi ling deadline, but in section 143.1 either when she sent her medical Understanding Illinois, that deadline is more often than not tolled bills, gave her sworn statement, or provided ad- your law fi rm brand by section 143.1 of the Illinois Insurance Code. ditional records following her sworn statement. would be the fi rst 215 ILCS 5/143.1 (West 2006). Section 143.1 is Id. at 237. American Access claimed that the step in promoting a statutory restriction on contractual limitation defendant never fi led a proof of loss because that brand. It might provisions that was designed to prevent insur- she did not return the “Accident Report Form.” be easier to begin ance companies from depriving an insured of her Id. with what your law day in court by sitting on a claim and allowing the The court agreed with the defendant and held fi rm brand is not. limitation period to run out. Trinity Bible Baptist that at the very least the period was tolled when For example, it is not Church v. Federal Kemper Insurance Co., 219 the defendant supplied the additional documents your logo, the colors Ill. App. 3d 156, 160-61 (1991). Section 143.1 following her sworn statement. Id. at 238-39. you use, the ad you run in a trade newsletter or provides that “the running of such [limitation] At that time, American Access had suffi cient how you describe yourself in the fi rm’s website. period is tolled from the date proof of loss is information to satisfy the notice provision of Those are tools you can use to promote your fi led, in whatever form is required by the policy, the policy and the limitation period was tolled brand. until the date the claim is denied in whole or in until American Access denied the claim. Id. at Your brand is basically what clients and part.” 215 ILCS 5/143.1 (West 2006). 239. American Access never denied the claim, prospects think of your fi rm. It can be a negative Section 143.1 seems simple enough, but where and thus, the defendant’s demand for arbitration perception or a positive one. Obviously, you things get tricky is when there is no specifi c was timely. Id. strive for the latter. Clients may also have no “Proof of Loss” form fi lled out by an insured. The court noted, however, that the notice opinion about your fi rm. That is not good either. The Illinois Appellate Court recently addressed provision in the policy did not describe a specifi c Your goal should be to differentiate your law this issue in American Access Casualty Com- form or reference the “Accident Report Form.” fi rm from competitors, which with a positive pany v. Tutson, 409 Ill. App. 3d 233 (1st Dist. Rather, it merely required that a claimant provide client experience, will help you create a strong 2011). In American Access, the defendant was “written notice containing particulars suffi cient brand. a passenger in a vehicle that was involved in a to identify the insured and also reasonable ob- hit-and-run car accident. Id. at 234. Following tainable information with respect to the time, Strong Brands Build Business A strong brand will help you build client loy- the accident, the defendant fi led a claim with place and circumstances thereof…” Id. at 237, alty, keep your fees at the level you want them the driver of her vehicle’s insurer, American 239. This suggests that the court’s analysis may to be, enable your fi rm to survive and perhaps Access. Id. American Access received a lien have changed had the notice provision described to grow. How to develop a memorable brand notifying it of the defendant’s claim from the a specifi c form that the claimant was to submit. requires some research. For example, you need to defendant’s attorney approximately 3 months The other caveat to this case is that American study your own client base and determine which after the accident. Id. Access was held to have waived compliance clients drive your profi tability. You should also American Access then sent an “Accident with the proof of loss requirement because it be able to identify differentiators from other Report Form” to the defendant’s attorney seek- never denied the defendant’s claim and it failed fi rms that practice the same areas of law that ing basic information about the claim. Id. The to raise the defendant’s failure to complete the you do. Input from others in the fi rm is valuable defendant never completed the form. Id. About “Accident Report Form” as a ground for relief in making this determination. Secretaries and a year later, American Access notifi ed the de- in its declaratory judgment action. Id. at 239. others who have been with you a long time have fendant that it was in possession of the police Regardless, American Access holds that where client contact and know the fi rm. They might be report from the traffi c accident. Id. at 235. The a claimant provides suffi cient information to able to tell you more than you realize, especially defendant then sent American Access her medi- satisfy a proof of loss provision, without nec- about the fi rm’s value proposition and how it is cal bills and records and a written demand for the essarily providing a specifi c form supplied by perceived by your clients. policy’s $20,000 limit. Id. The defendant then the insurer, section 143.1 will toll the limitation Conducting some external research is also a sat for an examination under oath at American period from the date the claimant satisfi ed the step you can take, however, it can be expensive. Access’s request. Id. Following the examination provision until the date the claim is denied. Clients usually will share more with a third party under oath, American Access requested some than with you about their choice of one law fi rm additional documentation so that it would be [Editor’s Note: Gina M. Rossi is an attorney at over another. Sometimes if you ask your clients “in a position to evaluate your client’s personal the law fi rm of Johnson & Bell, Ltd., where she some questions, including “How are we doing?” injury claim.” Id. The defendant provided the concentrates her areas of practice in general you might just get useful information from them requested documentation, but never heard from negligence, premises liability, and insurance that will make your service even better and American Access regarding her demand. Id. fraud and coverage. Ms. Rossi has experience answer some concerns that they had not told After the expiration of the policy’s two-year in all phases of trial litigation and has success- you about in prior “working” conversations. limitation period, the defendant made a demand fully tried, as fi rst chair, bench and jury trials to Once you have been able to gather both for arbitration under the policy. Id. American verdict. She also has considerable experience internal and external information about your representing clients at arbitration.] ConƟ nued on page 31

PAGE 30 Iori, conƟ nued from page 30 fi rm, you are in a better position to defi ne your A Taxing Endeavour: brand or refocus it a bit. You may be surprised at what you learn. For example, are the mes- Understanding How to Apply Illinois Sales Tax sages you have been using in your marketing a purchase order to make a sales contract, and materials actually what the lawyers, including John J. Tufano, Jr. not merely soliciting orders, is the central factor yourself, are using when you talk to prospects that determines whether a seller is engaged in the or clients face-to-face? Are the messages you As businesses business of selling tangible personal property. are using truly aligned with needs and wants of wade through the For most neighborhood supermarkets and big- your clients? trenches of a stag- nant economy, box electronic stores, a buyer accepts an offer at the point of purchase. At such cash-and-carry Do Away with Disconnects balancing budget Disconnects can occur here. You don’t want sheets becomes that retailers, a person enters the store, pays for the branding to stop with your marketing tools much more testing. items, and leaves with the goods purchased. – the brochures, the website, the articles. Your Aside from calculat- The seller and buyer conduct a sales transaction branding should refl ect what you are saying in ing costs, compen- at the register, exchanging money for goods. one-on-one meetings with clients. In fact, every sation, and pricing Concerning products ordered through phone, time a client has contact with your fi rm – from structures, Illinois fax, or email and delivered later, the sale can your receptionist to your secretary to other companies, now more than in years past, are be accepted elsewhere, morphing the cash lawyers – your brand should be top of mind paying closer attention to ways in which changes register in a brick and mortar store in to a sales and communicated to the client. in state taxes dictate their viability. In early 2011, representative with an internet connection or a You might want to incorporate some CBE -- Illinois businesses absorbed tax legislation that, phone line in a satellite offi ce. Continuing Brand Education – into your fi rm. beginning on January 1, 2011, increases corpo- A series of cases appearing this year in Cook It is intended fi rst for you, the lawyer, and then rate income tax from 4.8 percent to 7.0 percent. County highlight the challenges of determining for other lawyers in your fi rm and fi nally, for While the state attempts to cover budget defi cits what constitutes a sale and in which county a your staff. CBE includes reviewing the fi rm’s by deepening its tax pool, companies subject to sale occurs for sales tax purposes. Two com- messages, what industries your fi rm targets and the increase may require signifi cant fi nancial plaints fi led recently are grabbing headlines at what’s happening in those industries. It can also adjustments to remain profi table. For those a frequency that will likely increase as more involve a look at the composition of the fi rm’s believing that the new state income tax was a cash-strapped counties scramble for new rev- client list. How much information to share about deterrent to doing business in Illinois, beware, enue sources. the work the fi rm does for the clients should be because a second tax is gaining steam: enter the The Regional Transportation Authority (“RTA”) decided on a fi rm-by-fi rm basis. It is basically a peculiar Illinois sales tax. and the city of Chicago are suing the city of chance to remember and refresh what your fi rm Illinois is among a handful of states in which Kankakee, the village of Channahon, and other is doing to market its strengths and to whom it sales tax applies where an offer is accepted, parties, challenging tax incentive programs that is marketing. rather than where a product is delivered to the benefi t Kankakee and Channahon by attracting customer. Since a sales transaction can occur at companies to conduct sales transactions away Are Changes Needed? a location entirely different from a company’s from their Cook County bases. The RTA and It may be time to make a few changes. Perhaps corporate offi ce, this quirk in the law arguably Chicago claim lost tax revenues in the tens of your messages need some massaging. Maybe creates an opportunity for companies to redirect millions of dollars per year, tax pools allegedly you need to focus more on some other legal the site of these transactions to satellite loca- siphoned away from Cook County – where a services that are more lucrative right now, and tions. While one-person offi ces outfi tted only signifi cant number of Chicago companies are that may require revisions to the marketing headquartered – to smaller, neighboring coun- brochures or Website. You may have found with a computer and telephone might seem more punishment than paradise, for a number ties, which house sparse, discreet, but arguably that your revenues are coming from areas you legally suffi cient sales offi ces for Cook County weren’t expecting, so decisions need to be made of businesses, these satellite offi ces may offer competitive havens away from counties with businesses. about resource redeployment. The RTA alleges that independent third-party Generally, doing a marketing/business devel- higher tax rates. The Illinois sales tax is a combination of “consultants” establish a phone number at a opment house cleaning or analysis is a good step satellite offi ce located beyond Cook County any fi rm should take. Introducing some other “occupation” taxes that are imposed on sell- ers’ receipts and “use” taxes that are imposed for a company based in Cook County. These concepts, such as CBEs or a review of your satellite offi ces are the locations at which sales marketing materials can also help to educate on amounts paid by purchasers. A component transactions are “accepted”. For ROT purposes, everyone. Staying on top of your brand is a of the sales tax, the retailers’ occupation tax a company is arguably “doing business” in the continuing effort in the same way that staying (“ROT”), is a signifi cant source of local and satellite offi ce location, not Cook County. The on top of your game is essential in the legal county revenue. Illinois code provides that Cook County companies allegedly receive kick- community. “home rule unit” counties may impose a local ROT on all persons engaged in the business of backs from Kankakee and Channahon; portions of the sales taxes paid to a satellite offi ce’s mu- [Editor’s Note: Robin Iori, principal of Iori selling tangible personal property in that county. nicipality are paid back to the “consultant” and/ Communications, has been providing market- Counties apply the ROT on gross receipts from or the Cook County business. At 9.75 percent, ing and media relations services for law fi rms sales made in the course of such business. Il- Cook County and the city of Chicago lay claim for 20 years. Contact her at 312-772-5564 or linois law states that a seller’s act of accepting ConƟ nued on page 32 [email protected].]

PAGE 31 Tufano, conƟ nued from page 31 to one of the highest sales tax percentages in Insurance Industry Report the country, while Kankakee, at 6.25 percent, society and the evolution of technology, a is among the lowest in Illinois. By: Roy Puccini media organization may be at risk for claims Kankakee and Channahon claim that their tax from virtually anyone who has seen or heard agreements with these companies are legal, This article its contents in any type of medium including products of nothing more than market com- is about various television, print, radio, and the internet. Also petition. As consumers freely shop around for products in the includes third parties such as agents, dis- better prices or purchase an identical product professional li- tributors, independent contractors, freelancers in a lower taxed county, so too can companies. ability area. With (writers, artists, and website developers) may While neither Kankakee nor Channahon of- recent cases in the create a liability for a media company that fi cially released the names of companies with past few months they are working for. Coverage will include, whom they share tax incentive agreements at this coverage is defamation, libel, slander, emotional distress, the time that these complaints were fi led, both needed for all busi- mental anguish or outrageous conduct. Also cities claim that their tax programs are within nesses more than ever. It does not matter if will include infringement of copyright, title, the bounds of Illinois law. Not only do they small or large, private or non-profi t, the cover- logo, trademark, trade name, or service name. argue against the plaintiffs’ claims of fi ltering age is needed to prevent fi nancial hardships. Also to include infringement or interference tax dollars, Kankakee and Channahon assert that I have written on the following: with the rights of privacy. their programs attract out of state businesses, corporate presences that otherwise would not 1. Directors and Offi cers Liability Technology and Telecommunications exist within Illinois. While both sides are po- 2. Professional Liability (Errors and Errors & Omissions. Software code can sitioned upon arguable grounds that sales tax Omissions) contain security vulnerabilities that allow should be redirected in their favor, it is clear 3. Employment Practice Liability hackers to penetrate customers’ networks. Al- that, whichever the outcome, the certainty of 4. Fidelity legations of software copyright infringement municipality budgets hangs in the balance. 5. Crime are increasingly common. Defects in software, Earlier this year, a similar case highlighted the components and devices can cause customers fi nancial impact of a dispute over the location In addition to these other coverages, busi- to lose revenue or incur signifi cant fi nancial to which sales tax attaches. Hartney Fuel, ness has to look to add in additional items expenses. Coverages have a broad defi nition headquartered in Cook County, supplies diesel to also protect depending on other expos- of technology products, technology services, fuel, gasoline, and bulk lube oil to purchasers ers. Clients today are being sued not in the internet services and telecommunications through a sales representative at a designated general liability area but in other areas like services. Defi nition of wrongful act includes sales offi ce in Mark, Illinois, a town in Putnam professional coverages. We will be seeing personal/proprietary injury committed in the County of 500 residents. The Illinois Depart- more and more in these areas. Important that conduct of technology services or telecom- ment of Revenue audited the company and general liability policies does not cover any munication services. Also will cover software determined that its sales were subject to state of these special products. Additional products code infringement. Will include also failure and local taxes in Cook County, the location of that companies should be looking to add to to prevent unauthorized access arising out of Hartney Fuel’s main offi ce. The Hartney Fuel prevent fi nancial hardship to companies. A technology services provided to others. court reasoned that goods were received and lot of these products are new and were not accepted at the sales offi ce in Putnam County, available to many ten years ago. The follow- Network Security and Privacy Injury. As not the Cook County headquarters. Since, for ing coverages are as follows: businesses of all types increase their reliance local tax purposes, a sale is situated where it on technology to store their data or their client is accepted, the Hartney Fuel court found that 1. Media Liability data on computers, they face increased com- Putnam County, not Cook County, was entitled 2. Technology and Telecommunica- puter attacks, viruses and security breaches. to the ROT. tions Errors and Omissions Provides coverage for a claim of network The RTA complaint and the Hartney Fuel deci- 3. Network Security and Privacy damage alleging a wrongful act that results sion expose the diffi culty in interpreting and Injury in a security breach of the insured entity’s applying the Illinois sales tax in the current network. Damages includes the inability to environment. For those with satellite offi ce Important note on following materials are gain access to the network, and destruction operations through which sales transactions from CNA Insurance Co., a leader in this or alteration of a third party’s information are sourced, it is important to keep apprised of area with some other major carriers who have residing on the network. Coverage for a claim developing case law that clarifi es those efforts. developed products. The materials are from of privacy injury alleging a wrongful act that The increasing spotlight upon Illinois sales tax sales information sheets used by agents and results in a security breach of the insured serves as a reminder for businesses to evaluate brokers. entity’s network. the ways in which they conduct sales transactions and to which counties they pay the ROT. Media Liability. Companies that special- [Editor’s note: Insurance Consultant Roy ize in creating, gathering and disseminating S. Puccini can be reached by phone (630- [Editor’s Note: This article originally appeared information can be at risk due to the nature of 461-0671) or e-mail (roypuccini35@gmail. in the ISBA Corporation, Securities & Business their business. With an increasingly litigious com).] Law Forum Newsletter.]

PAGE 32 Photo Stories

ISBA 1st Vice President John Thies, Jus ce Sandra Day O’Connor and Cheryl Niro and Leonard Amari pose ISBA President John G. Locallo. with their new Fiats.

Congratula ons to Frank Somma- Franco Coladipietro and Sam Tornatore rio upon his marriage to Gina (nee par cipate in a cooking compe on for lo- Carrano). Right: the happy couple cal schools. The event is called 50 Men Who with twin daughters, Angelina and Cook and it gets bigger and be er every Isabella. Above: Frank and the year. Sommario family.

Italian-American community leaders hosted a recep on and fundraiser for Vesna Marusic, John G. Locallo, and Commissioner Michael Cabonargi of Katherine Amari O’Dell of Amari & the Cook County Board of Review at Locallo stop to take a photo at the our Jus nian headquarters in support Richard Caldarazzo gives a seminar Illinois State Bar Founda on Gala. of his elec on to this board. At the at The John Marshall Law School Amari & Locallo sponsored the recep on, Jus nian President Kather- on prac cal aspects of real estate mar ni bar. ine Amari O’Dell presented to Michael closing. The event was sponsored Cabonargi its 2011 golf ou ng shirt, a by John Marshall Jus nians. welcome to the society.

PAGE 33 Photo Stories

Father Michael Garanzini, president of Loyola University Chicago, hosts his annual dinner for Italian American community leaders and, therefore of course, members of our Jus nian Soci- ety. He is a Sicilian raised in St. Louis. He prepared a wonderful dinner for us in the late fall at Loyola.

Above photo leŌ : Father Garanzini with the coordinator of the event, Leonard F. Amari. Above photo right: Father Garanzini photographers with community leaders and Jus nians. Standing, from le : Len DeFranco, Richard Russo, William Davy, Joe Gagliardo, Joe Locallo, Ma hew Da lo, and John Locallo. Seated, from le : Anthony Fornelli, Father Garanzini, and Leonard Amari.

The Italian community hosts a recep on at Above: Immediate Past Presi- our Jus nian headquarters to support the dent Cris na Mungai, chief at- candidacy of Jus ce Mary Jane Theis of the torney of the Law Department Illinois Supreme Court. From le , Jack Carey, of the CTA, lectured at the past president of the Illinois State Bar Asso- DePaul Law School to the De- cia on, John Locallo, past Jus nian president Paul Jus nian Chapter as well and current president of the Illinois State Bar as other DePaul Law Students Guess who? Associa on, Jus ce Theis, Leonard F. Amari en tled “Life as In House Coun- and Joseph F. Bisceglia, both past presidents sel.” She discussed the pros of the ISBA and the Jus nian Society of Law- and cons of being employed as yers. in House Counsel for the CTA.

PAGE 34 Photo Stories

Jus nian President Katherine Amari O’Dell, Jus ce Harrison, and past Jus n- ian President and ISBA President John G. Locallo. Interes ng to note, they are photographed in front of the an que From le : Joseph F. Locallo, Jr., Umberto Davi, Leonard F. Amari, photograph of the Coliseum, that Jus ce Katherine Amari O’Dell, Jus ce Harrison, Gloria Coco, John Locallo, Harrison donated to our Jus nian Society Len DeFranco, and Mike Favia. Headquarters upon his re rement from the bench that hung in his law oﬃ ce his en re career.

A orneys John L. Ambrogi and Chris ne M. Kieta celebrated St. Joseph’s table with fellow members of the Columbian Club Above: MaryAnn Hynes poses of Chicago, Ralph T. Del Monico, Frank A. with her new grandbaby, Mary Trocchio, John L. Zivojnovic and his wife Therese Hynes. Her parents are Gina at Venu ’s Banquets, Addison. Nick and Michelle Hynes.

Above Congratula ons to Photo le : Our Jus nian James and Natalie Whalen Newsle er Staﬀ at a recent upon the birth of their mee ng. Standing, from le : daughter, Tillotson June Angelina Filippo, Leonard Whalen. Tillotson is the great Amari, Gina Rossi, Robin Iori, granddaughter of the past Michael Pisano, John Tufano president and dean of the and Anthony Casaccio. Seat- Jus nian Society, Anthony J. ed, from le : Diana Bosnjak, Fornelli. President Katherine Amari O’Dell and Nina Vidmer.

PAGE 35 Photo Stories From the Archives

Above: Prominent Cook County a orney Dale Markay (Marchese) sent us an old family photo. Just wonderful, and how many of us have these in our family archives. Above 50th wedding anniversary announcement dated June 23, 1955 of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph LoBello, the great grandparents of Jus nian past president James J. Morici, Jr. and of Robert H. Butzow. How many of us remember remi- niscing about and playing near the old Olive e Ins tute which was across the street from Grandpa LoBello’s building which housed mul ple Above from le : Judge Michael Pope, genera ons of the LoBellos, Anthony Fornelli and Leonard Amari. Purporas and Havansek families. That tradi on of having several genera- ons of Italian family on A record number of people the same block, common enjoyed the Illinois Bar during the 40s and 50s is Founda on’s Lawyers Rock something we all look back Legends fundraising event on to with envy. Note the “ed- February 16, 2012 at Buddy itor’s favorite barber” was Guy’s Legends in Chicago. Jim Morici’s grandfather CBS-2 New Anchor Rob John- Adolf LoBello whose shop son emceed the event for the was located directly west second year. The event raised of St. Michael’s adjacent to Above from le : Larry Pusateri, A orney over $50,000 to beneﬁ t the the “Ogden triangle” General Jim Ryan, Gino DiVito and IBF. at 1656 North Mohawk. Jus ce Tony Scariano.

PAGE 36 Miscellanea

By: Leonard F. Amari The Chicago Bar Foundation’s 15th annual Future ISBA President and Justinian fall benefi t was held at The Field Museum. One Member John Thies will be visiting China Congratulations to of the chairs was Paula F. Angelini and the event for his fall president’s trip in September 2012. past Justinian president, the included a buffet dinner, open bar, live music, John and other ISBA members and guests will highly respected and be- children’s activities, a silent auction and access visit the Yangtze River, the Three Gorges Dam, loved Joseph Gagliardo, to museum exhibits. Xi’an (including the tomb of the First Emperor the managing partner of of China and the Terracotta Warriors discovered the prestigious labor fi rm The Illinois Supreme Court announced 30 years ago) and Beijing (including Tiananmen of Laner, Muchin, Dom- Thursday that Jefferson County State’s Attorney Square, the Forbidden City and the near-by Great brow, Becker, Levin & Nicole L. Villani has been appointed to a circuit Wall). Tominberg, Ltd., has been judgeship in the 2nd Judicial Circuit. named the Best Lawyers’ Villani will fi ll the vacancy created by the 2012 Chicago Litigation - retirement of Jefferson County Circuit Judge Labor & Employment Lawyer of the Year. Terry H. Gamber. Her appointment took effect January 1 and expires December 3, 2012, when the position is fi lled through the general election.

Mayer, Brown LLP announced that it has promoted 39 lawyers to partners, including eight in Chicago, including Justinian Daniel K. Sto- rino, who concentrated on complex commercial litigation. From le , John Thies, John O’Brien and Andrea Schleifer. The following Justinians, highly respected and esteemed, have been listed in the most Congratulations to Charles R. Bernardini, recent edition of Super Lawyers: Joseph M. of Ungaretti & Harris, on being appointed by Gagliardo, Umberto S. Davi, Edward D. Illinois Governor Pat Quinn to the Governor’s Joseph Gagliardo , le , with Re red Illinois Manzo, Steven F. Molo, and Antonio M. Export Advisory Council. The Council will work Supreme Court Jus ce Moses Harrison. Romanucci. with the Governor and other state offi cials and agencies to provide recommendations aimed at Congratulations to Gina M. Rossi on improving Illinois’ standing in the international Thaddeus J. Makarewicz, longtime being selected one of Illinois Super Lawyers marketplace. Council members will also serve ethnic community leader and career friend of 2012 Rising Stars. The honor is awarded by as international ambassadors for Illinois. our society, presently serving as chief legal fellow lawyers who are asked to nominate the Charles Bernardini’s professional experience counsel of the Cook County Assessor’s Offi ce, best attorneys who are 40 or under, or who have includes that of Managing Director of the was honored for his leadership and dedication been practicing for 10 years or less. Lawyers American Chamber of Commerce in Milan, to Chicago’s Polish community. are instructed to nominate attorneys they have Italy and President of the Italian Chamber of The Kosciuszko Foundation at Northeast- personally observed in action — whether as op- Commerce of Chicago-Midwest. He currently ern Illinois University hosted a celebration to posing counsel or co-counsel, or through other serves as Honorary Legal Advisor to the Italian recognize Makarewicz. fi rsthand courtroom observation. Consulate in Chicago.

ISBA 2nd Vice President and Winston & Congratulations to Brandon J. Zanotti Strawn chief attorney development offi cer Paula has been appointed an arbitrator to the Illinois H. Holderman was honored by the Women’s Workers’ Compensation Commission. Zanotti Bar Association of Illinois (WBAI) with the 2011 will serve as an arbitrator for a one-year term. “Women with Vision” award. Ms. Holderman was presented with the award at the WBAI’s Congratulations to Andy Raucci, veteran Joint Professional Dinner on November 3, 2011 Springfi eld lobbyist (and election law wizard) on in Chicago. being elected by his lobbyist peers as Speaker of the Third House. A surprised Raucci received a standing ovation from the lobbyists and legisla- tors – including Senate President John Cullerton and Senate GOP leader Christine Radogno – who From le , Charles Bernardini, Dan Hynes and gathered at the Four Seasons for their annual John Locallo. holiday lunch. Ulmer & Berne LLP has promoted fi ve Lisa M. Mazzone has joined Anderson, attorneys, including one in its Chicago offi ce, Rasor & Partners LLP as an associate. Prior to to partner. The new Chicago partner is Brian joining the fi rm, Mazzone, a 2010 graduate of C. Bianco. He represents companies in patent Northwestern University School of Law, worked and intellectual property disputes. as a judicial intern in the U.S. District Court in the Northern District of Illinois. Brett J. Natarelli, an associate at Dykema, From le , Mauro Glorioso, Franco Coladipietro, Gossett PLLC, has been appointed to the board Leonard Amari, Paula Holderman, John Locallo of directors for the Illinois Mortgage Bankers and Judge Vince Cerri. Association.

PAGE 37 Miscellanea, Continued

Congratulations to Paul Gamboa upon leader in our legal profession and Chief Operat- native speakers. Private lessons also available being elected as share- ing Offi cer of ComEd, upon being recognized at on or off-site. Contact Giovanna Verdecchia at holder of Johnson & the 19th annual Women of Achievement Awards 312-832-4053 or italidea.chicago@sbcglobal. Bell. Paul concen- Dinner by the Anti-Defamation League. net. trates his practice in general negli- Congratulation to Louis Cairo, being gence, transporta- chosen as a recipient by the prestigious Sons tion litigation and of Italy with its signifi cant Leonardo DaVinci premises liability. Award in legal jurisprudence. The ceremony is He has successfully scheduled for May 6th, 2012. Sons of Italy is, of tried, as fi rst chair course, the philanthropic organization devoted both jury and bench to helping Italian Americans throughout the trials to verdict. He country. The award is being bestowed upon the also has consider- highly respected and revered Louis Cairo as a able experience in result of his accomplishing legal excellence representing clients throughout his career in representing families Anne Pramaggiore, with Antonio Romanucci, at arbitrations. He of people killed or tragically injured as a result was recognized by Governor Pat Quinn and Joe Bisceglia. of negligence of corporations, manufacturers Chicago Magazine and Illinois Super Lawyer and individuals. magazine as a Rising Star for 2011. Rising Stars Congratulations to the IIT Chicago-Kent Of course, Louis’ greatest pride, at the pres- are lawyers under the age of 40 who have been in College of Law team of Daniel Crone ’12, Mar- ent time, are his two children that are excelling practice for 10 years or less, and it is a distinction cell Taylor ’12, Jessica Velez ’12, and Carlos as students at The John Marshall Law School, given to approximately 2.5 percent of attorneys Vera ’12 has advanced to the national fi nals Deanna and Louis, Jr. in the state. Mr. Gamboa is a member of the of the American Association for Justice (AAJ) Illinois State Bar Association, the Chicago Bar 2012 Student Trial Advocacy Competition by Association and the Fenwick Bar Association. winning the regional tournament, held March He has also provided pro bono services to The 1 to 4 in St. Louis. Law Project, assisting local entrepreneurs with IIT Chicago-Kent competed against teams from the start-up of their small business. 12 law schools from Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas and Missouri in the regional tournament. Congratulations to our friend, Tony Li- IIT Chicago-Kent will now compete against fi rst- cata, managing partner of the prestigious and place teams from 13 other regional tournaments successful fi rm of Shefsky & Froelich, for the in the national fi nals March 22 to 25 in Las Vegas. wonderful feature article about him and his Each member of the winning team in the national successes and those of his fi rm that appeared in competition will receive a scholarship from the the late February edition of the Law Bulletin. Melvin M. Belli Society and registration for the AAJ 2012 Annual Convention in Chicago, July From le , Louis Just a quick note to congratulate Olivia 28 to August 1. Cairo, Deanna Cairo, Clarke, the new editor of the Law Bulletin Of course, Carlos Vera is another generation and Louis Cairo, Jr. and especially for the signifi cant popular and of the Locallos, nephew to Joe and John, cousin improved changes made to the bulletin. The Law to Joey III, and retired Judge Dan. Carlos also Congrats to Bulletin has always been a source of information plays guitar in John Locallo’s band, 5-thirty. young Louis Cairo and pride in our legal community and now it’s not on his recent en- only that, but also an extraordinarily enjoyable gagement to Andrea newspaper to read, on a daily basis. Very few Beets. successful lawyers start their day without fi rst consulting the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin to fi nd out what’s going on, what their court calls look like and what’s happening in the legal community. Congratulations Olivia, you’re a Verdicts & Settlements very important contributing member of this By: Michael F. Bonamarte legal community. Congratulations Congratulations to Phillip J. Salerno II to Patrick Salvi on a upon joining the law fi rm of Clingen, Callow & $330,000.00 settle- McLean, LLC. This wonderful opportunity in Carlos Vera, le , with John Locallo. ment on behalf two the professional life of Phil provides him with plaintiff’s who susan opportunity to practice in the western suburbs Wouldn’t it be great if we could all speak tained injuries in an with a group of great people that also happen to Italian? Chuck Bernardini suggests we could at automobile accident. be talented business transaction lawyers, com- Italidea. Italidea, located at the Italian Cultural One plaintiff experi- mercial litigators and real estate planners. We Institute of Chicago, offers Italian language enced an aggravation wish Phil luck in his new circumstance. His new classes for adults and children. Offi ces at 500 of pre-existing cervical information is as follows: phone (630) 871-2603 N. Michigan Avenue, suite 1405; courses are arthritis and the other and e-mail [email protected]. offered in the daytime, evening, and on Satur- soft tissue injuries. days in 10-week terms for all levels. Intimate Congratulations to Carla Michelotti, Chief class sizes allow students to gain fl uency in Congratulation to Lou Cairo on an Legal Counsel, Corporate Affairs, Leo Burnett the language faster and meet people that share $8,000,000.00 settlement obtained for a 39 Worldwide, previous recipient of our Award the same passion for Italy. Italidea also offers year old motorist who suffered a traumatic of Merit and career Justinian, as well as Anne courses on Italian cuisine, music, fi lm, literature, brain injury and vascular injuries in a crash in Pramaggiore, a friend of our community and a theatre and Italian for children. All teachers are Boulder, Colorado in 2009. The defendant in the case was FedEx. The plaintiff was driving

PAGE 38 Verdicts & Settlements, Continued a pickup truck with his son when he was struck Holy Cross Hospital on 9/20/06. He was seen at the time of injury, who underwent numerous by a FedEx semitrailer that skidded into oncom- in triage and found to have a history of 9 days surgical procedures to his right hand and wrist ing traffi c. Initially the plaintiff was diagnosed of nausea, severe vomiting, diarrhea and could and eventually had to have a pain stimulator with a fractured left fi bula and a concussion. not keep anything down. An abdominal obstruc- implanted, was unable to return to his job as a However, weeks later he started showing signs tive x-ray series was obtained which was read truck driver. of a closed head injury including loss of atten- as demonstrating cardiomegaly. Liver function tion, diffi culty concentrating and signifi cant tests were signifi cantly elevated. The record Congratulations again to Regina Picone headaches. The plaintiff is unable to work refl ected that these tests were reported before Etherton on a $1,000,000.00 judgment awarded and cannot do strenuous exercise with his left the nursing shift change and immediately before in Chancery Court! ($1,000,000.00 policy limits arm because of vascular injuries caused by the the plaintiff and his mother were discharged. and 9% interest on $1,000,000.00 since August crash. Nevertheless, neither the plaintiff nor his mother 3, 2006 (the date of the underlying common law were ever advised of the abnormal liver func- judgment) awarded to the Estate of Michael Congratulations to Gregory D. Conforti tion tests or the enlarged heart. There was no Williamson, deceased, resulting in a judgment and Adam Sidoti of Johnson & Bell, Ltd. on recording of the abnormal liver function tests that now exceeded $1,500,000.00 against the obtaining a not guilty verdict in favor of all in any of the physician or nursing notes. There plaintiff, State Farm Insurance Company). defendants, including a waste-removal truck- was no indication on the discharge instructions FACTS OF THE CASE: On May 12, 2009, ing company and its driver from a jury in that the deceased or his mother were told of the the First District Appellate Court of Illinois af- Cook County, Illinois. The plaintiff, a 34-year- cardiomegaly and/or the abnormal liver func- fi rmed a $6,500,000 judgment entered on August old male, had pre-existing paraplegia from a tion tests. Instead, they were told that he had 3, 2006 to the plaintiff, the Estate of Michael gunshot to the back when he was 15 years old. Gastritis only and he was discharged. Six days Williamson, deceased in the case captioned The plaintiff alleged that the defendant driver later, he died from congestive heart failure. The Mary Catherine Williamson, individually, and as pulled out of an alley and t-boned him. With plaintiff argued that the emergency room staff Special Administrator of the Estate of Michael the assistance of accident reconstruction tes- who provided care to the deceased on 9/20/06 Williamson, deceased v. Carolyn Asher, as Spe- timony, the defendants were able to argue that at Holy Cross Hospital deviated from the stan- cial Administrator of the Estate of Arthur Asher, the plaintiff had actually side-swiped the front dard of medical and nursing care by failing Herb Eldridge d/b/a A & H Trucking, Inc., A & H of the truck. The defense began by discrediting to diagnose and treat his medical condition. Trucking, Inc., an Indiana Corporation, and Har- the plaintiff’s expert in demonstrating that he A complete history and physical examination mon Designs, Inc., d/b/a A & H Trucking, Inc., was actually disclosed before reviewing any should have been undertaken to evaluate his an Indiana Corporation. Thereafter, the Estate materials relevant to the case and by creating current cardiac status. Once, the severe abnor- of Michael Williamson, secured an assignment actual simulations from the plaintiff's expert's mal liver function tests were reported from the of rights agreement from the defendants A & H data that plaintiff failed to show the jury dur- laboratory, the emergency room should have Trucking, Inc. and Herb Eldridge d/b/a A & H ing trial. The defense leveraged the plaintiff's evaluated him for congestive heart failure. Trucking, Inc. in the underlying lawsuit. State expert's accident reconstruction data to demon- He should have been admitted to Holy Cross Farm Insurance Company issued an insurance strate to the jury that the accident simply could Hospital, or another Medical Center, under the policy that had liability limits of $1,000,000.00 not have occurred as described by the plaintiff care of a cardiologist for a complete evaluation. that should have covered the collision and the and the plaintiff's expert. The defense created This would have demonstrated cardiomyopathy liability of the defendants A & H Trucking, Inc. actual simulations from the data which showed requiring medical treatment. It was a deviation and Herb Eldridge d/b/a A & H Trucking, Inc. the jury that the accident occurred as described of the standard of medical care for the staff to Nevertheless, State Farm refused to defend the by the defendant driver. The plaintiff used still not have informed him and his mother of the defendants in the underlying lawsuit, resulting drawings with their expert and showed no actual fi ndings of both cardiomegaly and the abnormal in a judgment of $6,500,000 that was entered simulations, which proved damaging to their liver function tests. The deceased should not have against the defendants. Thereafter, State Farm expert’s credibility. The photographic evidence been discharged with a diagnosis of Gastritis, appealed the trial court’s judgment and fi led a de- of the damage to the plaintiff's van also proved when the hospital knew or should have known claratory judgment action, claiming the vehicle benefi cial in this regard. The plaintiff claimed he that he had cardiomegaly with elevated liver at issue was not covered under its policy. The sustained neck and back injuries that aggravated enzymes that required immediate evaluation Chancery Court denied State Farm’s declaratory his underlying paraplegia. His three treating for congestive heart failure. If the deceased judgment, entered judgment for the Estate of physicians said there would be some permanent had received a cardiac evaluation on 9/20/06 or Michael Williamson, and ordered State Farm components to his injury, but were unable to shortly thereafter, he would have been diagnosed to pay to the Estate of Michael Williamson specifi cally outline treatment. The plaintiff's and treated for his cardiomyopathy, and would $1,000,000.00, (the policy limits) plus 9% inter- current treating doctor testifi ed at trial that the not have died from the complications of that est from the date of the underlying judgment, plaintiff's pain condition was likely permanent cardiomyopathy, on 9/26/06. Notwithstanding, (August 3, 2006). and that this could affect his ability to care he could have lived at least 25 years and most for himself resulting in the potential need for likely would have received a heart transplant. Congratulations to Patrick Salvi on a in home care. Using the medical records, the The defense argued that the plaintiff’s heart $1,250,000 settlement! Pat represented a motor- defense was able to show that the plaintiff had condition was so severe that he would have cyclist who was ejected and sustained injuries a history of back pain complaints before the ac- died from it whether or not there had been which claimed his life hours later. The settlement cident and that he had actually applied for home malpractice, that the diagnosis was consistent represents the entire amount of the defendant’s health assistance several months before the the with his symptoms and that the plaintiff failed insurance policy limits. occurrence. The plaintiff asked for $3.3 million to comply with follow up discharge instructions in closing, accounting for a signifi cant claim that required follow up within 2 days. Congratulations Meghan Sciortino on a for future medical and home health assistance not guilty verdict in a products liability case. ($1.25 million) and future pain and suffering Congratulations to Antonio M. Romanuc- Meghan defended a ladder manufacturing and disability ($2 million). After deliberating ci, Stephan D. Blandin, and Frank A. Sommario company against claims that a stepladder failed for more than fi ve hours, and asking several on a $3,375,000.00 settlement in a personal and caused the plaintiff to suffer a broken wrist, questions, the jury returned a unanimous "not injury case involving a plaintiff whose right torn shoulder and other injuries. guilty" verdict in favor of all defendants. hand and wrist were crushed by a load of steel when the straps from the crane broke. Stephan Congratulations to Steve Phillips on a Congratulations to Regina Picone Ether- and Tony handled the personal injury case and record $17,500,000.00 settlement reached ton on a $750,000.00 settlement for her client. Frank handled the workers' compensation as- in Peoria County! A hernia surgery left the An African American male, 10 days after he pect of the case. Plaintiff, a 36 year old male plaintiff permanently blind and bedridden for turned 17, was transported by ambulance to six years.

PAGE 39 Verdicts & Settlements, Continued Passing of Relatives and Friends Pauline “Polly” Ann Faso On April 23, 2004, Terry Nichols, a 36 year Condolences to Father Charles Faso, OFM, old father of three, went to Methodist Medical The Justinian Society, its brothers and sis- whose sister Polly passed on November 11, Center in Peoria, Illinois for surgery to repair a ters, sincerely extend our sympathies for your 2011. giant inguinal hernia. The surgeon Dr. Rodney losses. McCalla, had fi nished his residency nine months Prayer: Do not stand at my grave and weep. Nello V. Ferrara prior, had never operated on a giant hernia and I am not there, I do not sleep. I am a thousand Condolences to the Ferrara family on the passing had only seen one thirty-percent (30%) the size winds that blow. I am the diamond glints on the of Nello, father of Serajean Alioto, Salvatore of Mr. Nichols' basketball-size hernia. Despite snow. I am the sunset on ripened grain. I am the Ferrara II, and Nella Davy. Nello was the dear his lack of experience, Dr. McCalla decided to gentle autumn’s rain. When you awaken in the grandfather of Marilyn and Joseph Alioto, Nello operate on this "giant" hernia laproscopically, morning’s hush, I am the sweet uplifting rush of III, Alana and Lauren Houder Salvatore, William even though Dr. McCalla did not have privileges quiet birds in circled fl ight. I am the soft stars Jr. and Nello Davy. to perform interventional laparoscopic surgeries. that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave Mr. Nichols' lawyers claimed that Dr. McCalla and cry. I am not there, I did not die. Jeanne Figliulo injured Mr. Nichols' bowel during the surgery Condolences to John Marshall Law School’s causing a perforation which, over fi ve days, led Harris Agnew most competent administrator, Maridonna to an abdominal infection, abdominal compart- Our sympathies to the Agnew family on the Schaal, upon the passing of her mother, ment syndrome, sepsis, septic shock, multi- passing of Harris Agnew who served as a Jeanne organ failure, cardiac arrest, bilateral ischemic former chief 17th circuit judge and passed at neuropathy (blindness), and a colostomy bag. the age of 75 years old on December 15, 2011. Lucene Ann Leahy, nee Bartelman Mr. Nichols' hospital stay should have been two He pioneered programs to speed up the court Condolences to the family of Lucene Ann to three days. However, on the fi fth day after system throughout the state. He retired from the Leahy, who passed at the age 103 on October surgery Methodist's nurses called Dr. McCalla bench in 1997 after 21 years as a judge, helped 28, 2011. She was preceded in death by her fi ve times, each time expressing grave concern shape the state’s fi rst mandatory arbitration and beloved husband William Soran Leahy and or requesting Dr. McCalla's presence at Mr. major civil mediation programs in Winnebago dear daughter-in-law Mary Ann Ori Leahy. She Nichols' bedside, but Dr. McCalla never went and Boone counties. The programs, designed is survived by her fi ve children, Susan (Rich- to the hospital. Moreover, the nurses did not in the late 1980s to provide a cheaper, faster ard) Volkmann, William Soran, Jr. (Sue Bale), notify their supervisors or any other physician path to resolution than litigation, are now used David (Aaris) Brian, and ISBA past President of Mr. Nichols' deterioration or of Dr. McCalla's throughout the state. Thomas (Gaile). unwillingness to come to the hospital. As a result of the negligent care, Mr. Nichols' was hospital- John Annes Doris M. Orlando, nee Muzzalupo ized at Methodist for two and one-half months Condolences to the family of John Annes; lov- We are saddened to hear of the passing of after he went into septic shock from infection, ing husband of Phyllis and dear father to dear Doris Orlando, beloved wife of Judge Frank became blind, and required a colostomy for his friend and Justinian supporter Andy, and Rick, Orlando (Retired), devoted mother of Matthew bowel care. During the hospitalization, Plaintiff Scott and Mark. F. (Robert Wolohan) Orlando and Francesca A. also contracted a staph infection which seeded (Terry) Kusinski. in his left hip, causing infection, abscess, and Dominick John Bufalino osteomylitis, eventually requiring removal of Condolences to the family of Dominick John Bu- The Honorable Lawrence A. Passarella the hip bone, after which Plaintiff did not walk falino; loving husband of Camelia and devoted Condolences to the family of Honorable Law- for six years. In 2010 Mr. Nichols underwent father of Vincent, Angelo, and Marietta. rence A. Passarella, loving father of Thomas three surgeries for a hip replacement, and can Passarella. now walk with a walker or cane. Mr. Nichols has Steve Carponelli complete vision loss in one eye, and can only see Condolences to the family of Steve Carponelli; Rose A. Pileggi grey shapes and shadows in his other eye. This survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Andrea Condolences to the Honorable William on the settlement will help provide the care, therapy, Carponelli, and his children, Lisa and Ross. passing of his mother, Rose A. Pileggi. assistance, and medical equipment that Mr. Nichols' needs through his lifetime. According Patricia Cullerton John Sciaccotta, Jr. to his lawyers, Mr. Nichols' wants to be able to Condolences to the Cullerton family on the pass- We were saddened to hear of the passing of participate in his children's lives, and with the ing of Patricia, mother of State Senate President Past President John Sciaccotta’s father, John assistance he can now obtain, he can be a more John Cullerton. Sciaccotta Jr. active father to his three children. In the lawsuit, Mr. Nichols lawyers claimed that Dr. McCalla's Renata Davi Robert W. Staniec surgical approach was inappropriate, and that Condolences to the Davi family on the passing We are sadden to hear of the passing of Robert the surgeons failed to recognize the signs and of Renata Davi, mother of member Umberto Staniec, father of career Justinian and our good symptoms of infection, abdominal compartment Davi, and grandmother to Dion Davi. She passed friend Denise Staniec, the wife of the proprietor syndrome, sepsis, and septic shock. Mr. Nich- away in December 2011 at the age of 91. Renata of our favorite French restaurant, Kiki’s Bistro ols' lawyers further contended that the nurses immigrated to the United States in 1964, nine on Franklin Street. at Methodist failed to recognize and report to months after her husband was tragically killed physicians abnormal vital signs, and failed to in a trucking accident. Leo Sullivan obtain physician consultation for the Mr. Nichols Condolences to the Sullivan family on the pass- after Dr. McCalla failed to come to the hospital Vito DeCarlo ing of Leo Sullivan, a highly respected Lake despite fi ve phone calls from the nurses. Finally, Condolences to the family of Past President County attorney and active leader of the Illinois Mr. Nichols' lawyers claimed that Methodist Vito DeCarlo, father of our Third Vice Presi- State Bar Association and board member of the failed to properly credential and supervise Dr. dent Anita DeCarlo. He was also the beloved Illinois State Bar Association Mutual Insurance McCalla, and failed to stop Dr. McCalla from husband of Betty, father of Dominic, and Gia, Company. He passed on October 23, 2011 and is performing a surgery he did not have privileges and grandfather of Amber and Alyssa survived by his wife MariLynn and his fi ve sons, to perform. This settlement was reached with Leo IV, Mike, Terrence, Sean and Kevin. the Defendants Dr. McCalla, Associated Surgi- George Evans cal Group, and Methodist Medical Center. This Condolences to Chief Judge Evans, whose Elizabeth Amirante, settlement is the largest medical malpractice or father, George Evans passed at the age of 92 Condolences to Justinian member Sam Amirante tort settlement in Peoria County. years old. on the passing of his dear mother, Elizabeth.

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LaGrange, IL 60525 IL LaGrange,

P.O. Box 804 Box P.O. Justinian Society of Lawyers of Society Justinian

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