SEC Summers Honor Program, Deadline Approaching Soon

Central Florida Diversity Picnic Hosted by Stetson University School of Law

SRBLSA 37th Annual Convention Early Registration Deadline Extended

• Early Registration for Convention Particpants now ends December 01, 2007. Pay only $100.00 if you register or make a deposit postmarked by December 01, 2007. And there’s more great news!!! You may make a $50 placeholder deposit postmarked no later than December 01, 2007 to lock in this early bird registration fee. If the remaining balance is not postmarked by December 14, 2007, the regular registration fee ($150) will apply.

• Regular Registration: Pay $150.00 if you register or make a deposit postmarked by December 14, 2007.
  
• Late/On-Site Registration: Pay $200.00 if you register on or after December 15, 2007 and by January 5, 2008.

Shutts & Bowen LLPJob Announcement

SRBLSA Regional Convention Early Registration Deadline Approaching

Early Registration for Convention Particpants ends
December 01, 2007.

Pay only $100.00 if you register or make a deposit postmarked by November 15, 2007. And
there’s more great news!!! You may make a $50 placeholder deposit postmarked no later
than December 01, 2007 to lock in this early bird registration fee.

If the remaining balance is not postmarked by December 14, 2007, the regular registration fee ($150) will apply.

Regular Registration: Pay $150.00 if you register or make a deposit postmarked by December 14, 2007.

Late/On-Site Registration: Pay $200.00 if you register on or after December 15, 2007 and by January 5, 2008.

SUB REGION IV'S ACADEMIC RETREAT SUCCESS

4th Annual Minority Picnic in South Florida

Annual Minority Picnic in the Miami area on October 27 @12:00.

The minority picnic is an annual event started by Atty Kozyak and his South Florida firm to address the needs of minority law students throughout the state in terms of connecting with majority firms, partners, etc. There are students there from basically every law school breaking bread with and “meeting and greeting” hiring partners and other lawyers from large & small law firms (not just in South Florida), corporations, judges (there are always a lot of them there), etc. The atmosphere is very informal but inviting, and the folks there are definitely about the business of breaking down barriers between majority law firms and minority students and promoting “equal opportunity.” Justice Quince and June McKinney always attend, and I’ve seen other lawyers representing Tallahassee firms there, too.

November MPRE Deadline

MPRE Dates and Application Deadlines

Sat. Nov. 3, 2007 Test Date

Application Receipt Deadline: Sept. 25, 2007

Late Application Receipt Deadline: Oct. 11, 2007

Examinees must be present at 9 a.m. on test day.

International Relations Committee

This month on the IRC Blog:--

Meet Magda Theodate, Young Black Professional of the Month--
Hear what law students are saying about Haiti--
Want an internship in International law but don't know where to start?
We have some links for you.
Don't forget to Suscribe to the International Relations Committee's BlogSee these stories and more at:http://ircnblsa.blogspot.com/


Are you interested in joining the committee, please contact Michelle Augustine, the National International Relations Chair at international@nblsa.org .

Sub Region IV Academic Retreat in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Please Wear Black Today in Support of the Jena Six Rally in Jena, Louisiana.

The National Black Law Students Association Calls For Justice in the Jena Six Case

In past weeks and months we have watched events unfold in Jena, Louisiana with heavy hearts. In response to a racial incident arising from nooses being hung from a tree at the local high school, a group of six African-American students got into a fight with a white student, who allegedly had been racially taunting black students in support of the students who hung the nooses. Allegedly, the white student was taken to the hospital treated, released, and reportedly attended a social function later that evening.

While the National Black Law Students Association does not condone violence, the actions of the Jena District Attorney and the Judge in this case have amounted to a gross miscarriage of justice. The six African-American students involved in the altercation were initially charged with attempted second degree murder. On the morning of the trial, the District Attorney reduced the charges from attempted second degree murder to second degree aggravated battery and conspiracy. Aggravated battery in Louisiana law demands the attack be with a dangerous weapon. The prosecutor was allowed to argue to the jury that the tennis shoes worn by Mychal Bell, one of the defendants, could be considered a dangerous weapon.

Therefore, the National Black Law Student urges the Judge to consider all the factors surrounding these events during sentencing of Mychal Bell, the first of the six students to be tried. Additionally, we appeal to the Jena District Attorney, Reed Walters, to drop the charges against the remaining five students.

We are also calling on the Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco and Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr to intervene in the Jena Six case to ensure that the defendants’ constitutional right to a fair trial is ensured. The National Black Law Students Association is working with the ACLU of Louisiana to provide pro bono assistance to Mychal Bell and the other defendants in the Jena Six case.

You can contribute to this cause in a variety of ways such as:

1) Traveling to Jena, Louisiana on September 20th for a large protest against conviction of Mychal Bell. This event coincides with the National Academic Retreat in New Orleans and NBLSA may be able to help coordinate transportation to Jena from New Orleans. If you are interested in attending this event please contact Jared Boyd at

2) Writing a letter to Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco and State Attorney General
Charles C. Foti, Jr to intervene in the Jena Six case. A letter can be emailed to Governor Blanco at contact@la.gov and the State Attorney General can be contacted at Executive@ag.state.la.us.

3) You can also sign a petition demanding justice in the Jena Six case athttp://colorofchange.org/jena/.

Barry University's Black Law Student Association's Ol Skool Fish Fry

Barry University's School of Law
Black Law Student Association is Welcoming Their Students Back with an "Ol Skool" Fish Fry on September 28, 2007.

• There will be live music and a family fun environment.
• The event begins at 5:00 pm until 10:00 pm at Barry University's Courtyard.
  
• The address is 6441 East Colonial Dr. , Orlando, FL, 32807.

National Conference of Bankruptcy Judge’s Law Student Outreach Project Hosted by Florida A&M University College of Law

Please RSVP to cmc_ohsbmail@ohsb.uscourts.gov by September 21, 2007.

SRBLSA is Looking for Two Corporate Relations Specialists

The Southern Region is looking for two driven indiviuals who would like to serve on our executive board. Corporate Relations Specialist is an appointed position.

• Are you interested in joinging the Southern Region of the National Black Law Student Association?
• Are you a member of you Black Law Student Association Chapter?
• Do you have experience in building relationships and solicitng?

• Specialists are in charge of helping the Corporate Relations Co-Chairs with overseeing all fundraising on behalf of the SRBLSA.
• Specifically, assist Convention Co-Coordinators in seeking sponsors for the 37th Regional Convention, the Editor-N-Chief of the Law Journal in seeking sponsors for the law Journal, and Regional Chairs in seeking sponsors for the Academic Retreats.
• Applicants should have pervious fundraising experience (preferably for an organization) and good time management, along with sales or marketing experience.
• Specialist will be able to gain valuable experience in networking, public relations, fundraising, and the inter-workings of the SRBLSA organization.

All applicants must submit a letter of intent, good academic standing, and a resume by September 16, 2007. Please forward information to Sheryl Montour at sherylmontour@gmail.com .Please email all questions regarding this position to Sheryl Montour.

September Edition of The Southern Archive

Barack Obama in Tallahassee

Barack Obama in Tallahassee

Date: Friday, August 24, 2007

Time:12:00pm - 3:00pm

Location:Gaither Gymnasium

Street:1835 Wahnish Way / Florida A&M University

City/Town:Tallahassee, FL

Email: FLFinance@barackobama.com


Join Barack Obama in Tallahassee on August 24th.Supporters, community members, and friends are coming together at Gaither Gymnasium to support Barack Obama and our movement for change.

Here are the details:

Barack Obama in Tallahassee Friends - $20; students - $10 with valid student ID.

Purchase your tickets online and join Barack Obama for this special event:https://donate.barackobama.com/tallahassee

Jena Six Rally

The Michael Baisden Show: Live from Jena, LA September 20th The Baddest Man on radio is putting action behind his words.

On September 20th Michael Baisden along with comedian George Wilborn, national celebrities, and thousands of loyal listeners will March on the Jena Courthouse to demand justice for Mychal Bell, one of the black teenagers awaiting sentencing in the Jena 6 Case. Mychal Bell could receive up to 22 years in prison for what amounted to nothing more then a fist fight between black and white high school students. Michael will need all the support he can get to show the prosecutors, the Judge, and the entire nation that we will not stand by while they steal the lives of our children. Time for talk is over, it's time to act! Details about Michael's visit to Jena:

DATE: Thursday September 20, 2007
TIME: Peace & Protest Rally at 8:00am SENTENCING: 9:00am for student Mychal Bell LOCATION: LaSalle Parish Courthouse 1050 Courthouse St Jena, LA 71342 (25 minutes from Alexandria)

HOST HOTEL: Baymont Inn and Suites Alexandria 2301 N MacArthur Alexandria, LA 71303 US Phone: (318) 619-3300

ALTERNATE HOTEL: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites 2340 MacArthur Drive Alexandria, LA 71303 (318) 487-9898

LIVE BROADCAST: Local Affiliate KMXH-FM 93.9 "Southern Soul & The Best of Today's R&B"

Reserve Your Hotel Room for the National Academic Retreat in New Orleans, Louisiana

Please reserve your room today at the fabulous Sheraton New Orleans for the National Academic Retreat.

The Retreat will take place September 21- 23, 2007. Reserve your room today by following the instructions using the link below. The discounted group rate of $119/night will be available until September 9th!

http://www.starwoodmeeting.com/Book/nbsla

Please direct anyquestions about the Retreat to Gloria Bowens at educationcareer@nblsa.org.

Jobs at the American Bar Association

Assistant Staff Director/Staff Attorney
Center on Children and the Law
E5
Full Time Position - 37.5 hrs/week
C1003
Description < http://www.abanet.org/hr/#C1003#C1003>
Apply Now <http://www.abanet.org/hr/application/banner.html >

The position provides full-time substantive child welfare legal work for
the Barriers to Permanency Project/Pennsylvania and other grants of the
ABA Center on Children and the Law. Designs, organizes, coordinates and
presents at state child welfare law trainings. Facilitates permanency
delays projects by running advisory board meetings, developing written
protocols and materials, and providing on-site training in project
counties. Provides technical assistance to county departments of social
services and attorneys on key issues in law, including legal definitions
of child abuse and neglect, child abuse reporting requirements,
requirements for removing children from the home, adjudication and
disposition requirements, review hearings, voluntary placements,
permanency hearings, termination of parental rights, adoption and other
permanency options, and liability of child welfare agencies. Writes and
publishes manuals and legal articles on child welfare law issues.
Position requires extensive travel.

Applicant must have: J.D. and a minimum of seven to eight years of legal
experience as an attorney in child welfare law, excellent writing
skills, and expertise in public speaking and training. Candidates should
have the ability to work with and coordinate a variety of child welfare
professionals. Preference for experience in Pennsylvania child welfare
law, particularly representation of a county department of social
services. Must be a strong team player. Must be able to work
independently and exercise independent judgment in work. Must be willing
and able to facilitate meeting and interactive trainings.

http://www.abanet.org/hr/#C1065

Staff Attorney
Death Penalty Representative Project
E5
Full Time Position - 37.5 hrs/week
C1065
Description <http://www.abanet.org/hr/#C1065#C1065 >
Apply Now <http://www.abanet.org/hr/application/banner.html>

Assist recruiting activities of the project and support mid to large
size law firms in their role as pro bono counsel in systemic litigation
and post conviction cases; provide legal research support and assistance
to multiple litigation efforts; coordinate with capital defender
community and coalition of supporting organizations.

The Staff Attorney will have a JD and 3-6 years of litigation
experience, excellent legal research and writing skills, and a
commitment to issues regarding indigent criminal defense and the death
penalty. He/she should be self motivated, able to work independently,
able to work quickly under tight deadlines, and have a sense of humor.
Some travel may be required. Previous experience working with or at law
firms and on complex, systemic or class action litigation is highly
desired.

http://www.abanet.org/hr/#C1040

Staff Attorney
Africa Law Initiative
E5
Full Time Position - 37.5 hrs/week
C1040
Description < http://www.abanet.org/hr/#C1040#C1040>
Apply Now <http://www.abanet.org/hr/application/banner.html >

The purpose of this position is to provide day-to-day oversight in the
implementation of ABA-Africa programs - specifically, two Librarian
legal aid centers, and the Rule of Law and Independence of the Judiciary
Program in Algeria. Other programs may also be included in the Staff
Attorney's portfolio. The Staff Attorney's duties will include working
with technical experts, materials development, training, as well as
grants management and reporting.

Requirements: J.D. (bar admission not required) and have 4-7 years
experience in international development and/or rule of law programs in
Africa; be able to fluently speak French or Arabic and have spent time
in Africa or working on programs in Africa; program development,
training, proposal writing as well as program and grant management, and
fundraising; ability to work independently and have a working knowledge
of the political and legal system in Africa as well as challenges to
program implementation; and familiarity with major donors' rules and
regulations.

SRBLSA Job Fair Registration Deadline is August 14!!!

The SRBLSA Job Fair student bidding process is open on the easelaw website and the deadline for student registration and bidding is this upcoming Tuesday, August 14 at 11:59pm. There are currently 14 employers registered for the SRBLSA Job Fair and a fifteenth employer, Bradley Arant Rose & White LLP of Birmingham, AL will be adding its schedule on Monday, August 13, 2007. Also, please check the easelaw website frequently for updates, including additional employers that may register later in the process.

There is no limit on the amount of bids that each student can place and employers will select who they want to interview based on the documents that you, the student, have uploaded onto the easelaw system. Thank you for your interest in this year`s SRBLSA Job Fair and please be on the look out for an e-mail with the agenda for the 2007 Third Annual SRBLSA Job Fair.

Currently, save the dates of Friday, September 14, 2007 and Saturday, September 15, 2007 for the SRBLSA Job Fair in Nashville, Tennessee. A reception will be held on Friday afternoon and the Job Fair interviews will take place on Saturday morning between the hours of 8am and noon.

The easelaw website address is: www.easelaw.com/nblsa

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Tammra Mitchell at the email address provided below:

tammra.s.mitchell@gmail.com

SRBLSA 2007-2008 Calendar of Events

2007-2008 Calendar of Events

September 7-8, 2007

Sub-Region I Academic Retreat

Memphis, TN

Hosted by University of Memphis

September 14- 15, 2007

SRBLSA Golf Tournament and Job Fair

Nashville, TN

Hosted by Vanderbilt University

September 21-22, 2007

National Academic Retreat

New Orleans, LA

October 12-13, 2007

Sub-Region V Academic Retreat

Birmingham, Alabama

Hosted by Samford University

October 19-21, 2007

Sub Region IV Academic Retreat

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Hosted by InterAmerica University

October 27, 2007

Sub-Region III Academic Retreat

TBA

November 16-18, 2007

SRBLSA E-Board Meeting

Birmingham, Alabama

January 11-12, 2007

SRBLSA E-Board Meeting

Columbia, South Carolina

January 23-26, 2007

SRBLSA 37th Annual Regional Convention

Columbia, South Carolina

SRBLSA SUB REGION 4 ACADEMIC RETREAT

2007 ACADEMIC RETREAT –

INTENT TO REGISTER FORM
This intent to participate pre-registration form will not automatically register you for the Retreat. This form is for estimating the number of participants only. Please return this form to Sub Region 4 Director, Jami Coleman’s, email at jami.coleman@gmail.com by August 4, 2007.

The date anticipated Dates of the Retreat is October 19-21.

* * * * * * * * * *

Name

Graduation Month/Year

Student Status beginning August 2007:

1L 2L 3L

Cellular Phone or Summer Telephone ( )

Preferred E-mail Address (required)

Call for Mock Trial Committee Members!!!

NBLSA REJECTS RATIONALE BY THE SUPREME COURT

NBLSA EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES FOR THE LOSS OF FLORIDA A&M COLLEGE OF LAW STUDENT. For Immediate Release:

Please keep Janise Woodard and Josiah Woodard's family in your prayers and join FAMU COL in remembering them today. The Vigil will be held tonight at FAMU COL(201 Beggs Avenue, Orlando, FL 32801) at 6:30pm in room 240. Parking is available along Robinson or Washington Streets in Downtown Orlando. The representative for her class will have a card for the family to sign, and will be accepting any donations on behalf of the family. Please contact Alicia Peyton for more information at alpeyton1@yahoo.com .

FAMU College of Law Welcomes their First Year Students with a Memorable Mixer!!!

The Event was a Huge Success. Over 100 people attended which included first year entering students, professors, attorneys from the community, Paul C Perkins Bar Association, and friends. Enjoy the pictures!

FAMU Greets their First Year Students with a Mixer on Friday, July 6!

MPRE REGISTRATION

MPRE REGISTRATION FOR AUGUST TEST DATE

• Fri. Aug. 10, 2007 Test Date Application
• Receipt Deadline: July 3, 2007
• Late Application Receipt Deadline: July 19, 2007
• Examinees must be present at 12:30 p.m. on test day.

Online Registration Deadline
Online registration must be received before 12:00 midnight Central Time on the published deadline date.

Fees
For applications received on or before the regular receipt deadline, the fee for the MPRE is $55. For those who apply after the regular receipt deadline but before the late application receipt deadline, the fee is $110. For more information please see MPRE fees.

Please visit the MPRE Registration Site at http://www.ncbex.org/multistate-tests/mpre/guidelines/registration/

SRBLSA Law Journal Info Packet

Call for SRBLSA LAW JOURNAL POSITIONS!

Please visit http://www.srblsalawjournal.org/srblsa_law_journal_documents.html

TWO DAYS LEFT TO REGISTER FOR SEMJF!

Please contact your career placement office regarding registration for the South Eastern

Minority Job Fair!

The Deadline is June 27, 2007 by 5:00 pm. You can register at http://www.semjf.org/.

* This is not a SRBLSA event.

South Eastern Minority Job Fair Registration is Open!!!

The NBLSA Job Fair Is Open!

The registration for the NBLSA Job Fair is now open!

Please visit www.easelaw.com/nblsa in order to register.

Please contact your regional job fair coordinators with any questions you may have.

Levi C. PearsonDirector of Communications

Schedule for Academic Retreats!

Make Plans to Attend Your Sub Region or Other SRBLSA Academic Retreats!

Hope to See you There!

SRBLSA Academic Retreats have been scheduled as follows:

Sub-Region 1: Memphis, TN--September 7-8

Sub-Region 2: New Orleans, LA -- Sepetember 21-23

Sub-Region 3: Columbia, SC--October 27

Sub-Region 4: San Juan, Puerto Rico--Oct 19-21

Sub-Region 5: Birmingham, AL--October 12-13

*** Tentative Sub- Region 4: Florida- TBA--

FSU Alumni Reception at the Florida Bar Annual Convention in Orlando

Dear Students:
I write simply to invite you to attend the law school’s alumni reception during the Florida Bar Annual Convention at the Orlando World Center Marriott on Thursday, June 28th, from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. If you are in the Orlando area for interviews, appointments or summer clerking positions, please feel free to join us for the reception. If you plan to attend, please let the Alumni Office know by Thursday, June 21st by calling 644-7260 or e-mailing alumnidata@law.fsu.edu . Thanks!

Donald J. WeidnerDean and Alumni Centennial Professor
Florida State University College of Law

Register for the NBA 82nd Annual Convention!!!

The National Bar Association's

82nd Annual Convention & Exhibits

July 28 - August 4, 2007

The Westin Peachtree Plaza

201 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, Georgia 30303

Registration ends soon!

Visit www.nationalbar.org to register online.

2007 ACADEMIC RETREAT CALL FOR PROPOSALS

In addition to havin g a call for Florida Schools for the Region IV Academic Retreat, this year we are planning on having a Special Academic Retreat in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Novmember 9-11, in an effort to reach out to our Puerto Rico Chapters! Any and all support is needed for this special venture!!!

If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact me at jami.coleman@gmail.com or at srblsaregion4@gmail.com.

NBLSA Retreat JUNE 1-3 2007

First Annual National & Regional Retreat

in Dallas Texas

June 1, 2007 – June 3, 2007

Hotel at a Glance:

Hotel Information
Hotel Location: Hotel Indigo- Dallas 1933 Main Street Dallas, TX 75201
Phone Number: 214.741.7700; 1.877.846.3446
Website: http://www.hotelindigo.com
Cost: $89.00 single; $89.00 double; $129.00 suites

GRADUATING 3L BLSA MEMBERS!!!

HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF OUR GRADUATING FLORIDA BLSA MEMBERS FROM OUR LAW SCHOOLS:

KIMBERLY A. ANDRE, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
MICHAEL A. BARNETT, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
ROBIN BENJAMIN, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
CHERRI-ANN BENTELY, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
JANE BOLIN, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
KIRA BRERETON, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
KAREN BROWN, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
SHARI CAMPBELL, FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF LAW
KRYSTLE CANAII, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
WANDA CANNICK, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
ERICA CHAPLIN, FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF LAW
LOURDES CLERGE, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
DANIELLA DANIEL, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
KESHARA DAVIS, FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF LAW
AREY DESADIER, UNIVERSTIY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
MEREDITH ELDER, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
LISA-MARIE ELLIOT, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
HANGI EYSSALLENNE, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
YADANKUSH GETINET, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
JOSEPH GIANNELL, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
CLEVE GLENN, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
JAMILA GOODEN, FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF LAW
JUILAN GRAY, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
EKECIA GRAYSON, FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF LAW
MOHAMAD HAIDARA, FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF LAW
LESLIE A. HAYES, FLORIDA COASTAL SCHOOL OF LAW
CAMIKA D. HAYNES, FLORIDA COASTAL SCHOOL OF LAW
OLGA VIANA HENRY, FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF LAW
JANET HORNE, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
KARLYN HYLTON, FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF LAW
JOHN JACKSON JR., FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF LAW
ALSON JACQUET, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
GERALDA JEAN, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
KENNETH A. JENKINS, FLORIDA COASTAL SCHOOL OF LAW
PATRICK JOHNS, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
THAD H. JOSEPH, FLORIDA COASTAL SCHOOL OF LAW
TRACEE JOSEPH, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
ALEMAYEHU KASSAHUN, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
LESLIE KING, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
JULIA LICORISH, FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF LAW
DIONNE MCDONALD-JOSEPHS, FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF LAW
MARLON MONROE, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
CONTI MOORE, FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF LAW
JEFFERY MOUSSIGNAC, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
DEREK UCHECHUKWU OBIALO, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
CHRISTINA RILEY, FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF LAW
ADITI SEHGAL, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
SHARAINE A. SIBBLIES, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
TASHIA M. SMALL, FLORIDA COASTAL SCHOOL OF LAW
JESSICA SMITH, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
STEPHEN A. SMITH, FLORIDA COASTAL SCHOOL OF LAW
GEORGE SPENCER, FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF LAW
SHELLY-ANN A. SPRINGER, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
ELEAZAR “EL” STEWART, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
MARK STUART, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
RAFAEL TASSY, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
NNEKA UZODINMA, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
AYODELE VASSALL-GORE, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
EMILIA C. WALKER, FLORIDA COASTAL SCHOOL OF LAW
SASHA WATSON, FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF LAW
MICHELLE WHITE, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
JACQUELIN WHITTINGHAM, FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF LAW
MONIK WILLIAMS, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
ROBERT WILLIAMS, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
SAMUEL WILLIAMS, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
SHERNETTA RAY WILLIAMS, FLORIDA COASTAL SCHOOL OF LAW
STACEY D. WILSON, FLORIDA COASTAL SCHOOL OF LAW
DONALD G. WINE II, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
SERENA A. WITTER, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
ISSAC WRIGHT, ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW
RICHARD WRIGHT V, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF LAW
DAMIAN ZIMMERMAN, FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF LAW

Congratulations to each and every one of you. Your accomplishment is awesome and we hope you will continue to be a part of BLSA.

Congrats for the New BLSA E-Boards in Florida!

Nova Southeastern School of Law

President: Edna Estime
Vice President: Jeff Wolfenbarger
Treasurer: Shanelle Browne
Secretary: Natashia Sinckler
Public Relations: Officer Kara Vaval

Florida A&M University College of Law

President: Alicia Peyton

Vice President - Jerika Mobley
Treasurer - Wyntress Patterson
Secretary - Lenis Archer

Parliamentarian - Patrice Featherstone

Florida Coastal School of Law

President: De'Anna M. Hines
V. President: Celena R. Bibbins
Secretary: Sharlene C. Stanford
Treasurer: Orlando Cruz
Parliamentarian: Janie Lowe Crittenden
Chaplin: Brandon R. Croom

St. Thomas University School of Law

President: Sheryl Montor (rising 3L)
Vice President: Karen Phillips (rising 2L)
Treasurer: Schuyler Smith (rising 2L)

Secretary: Peggy Buckine (rising 2L)

Florida State University College of Law

President: Alisia Adamson
Vice-president: Marquita Stephens
Treasurer: Shalisa Francis
Secretary: Marron Gebremeskel
Member at Large: Sherria Williams
Financial Secretary: Jo-Anna Nieves
Public Relations Director: Nichole Cadres
Florida International University College of Law

President: Mayowa Odusanya
Vice President: Valquisha Morris
Secretary: Mary Thwaites
Treasurer: Alexis Giles
Public Relations: Carshon White

University of Miami School of Law

President: David Coleman
Vice President: Shawnte Raines
Dir. of Communication: Leigh-Ann Buchanan
Treasurer: Yolanda Paschal
Historian: Rochelle Willis
Dir. of Community Service: Vincent Alexander
SRBLSA Liaison: Susan Walker
*HOPE Liaison: Hussainatu Blake
Sub-Regional Liason: TBA

University of Florida College of Law

Jonathan Blocker: President

Marie Triche :Vice President

Karen Derby:Treasurer

Nickisha Webb: Secretary

Barry University School of Law

Carolyn Cole:President

Valencia Poitier: Vice President

Jacqueline Brown: Treasurer

Tasha Simmonds- Secretary

Information Unavailable for:
University of Puerto Rico School of Law
Stetson University College of Law
Eugenio Maria De Hostos School of Law
Inter-American University School of Law
Pontifical Catholic University School of Law

From the NBLSA Attorney General

We are asking our members to contact Georgia Attorney General Thurbert Baker in efforts to consent to Genarlow Wilson’s habeas petition. Genarlow Wilson is a Georgia teen who was convicted of Aggravated Child Molestation for a voluntary act of oral sex with another teenager.

At the time of the alleged crime, Wilson was seventeen and the alleged victim was fifteen.
Along with the label “child molester” which will require him throughout his life to be on a sexual offender registry, Genarlow received a sentence of eleven years — a mandatory 10 years in prison and 1 year on probation.

On July 1, 2006, Georgia passed legislation ensuring that no teen prosecuted for consensual oral sex can receive more than a 12 month sentence or be required to register as a sex offender. While NBLSA applauds the Georgia legislature for rectifying the law that placed Genarlow Wilson in prison, we cannot remain idle until he is free.

Genarlow Wilson will be filing a habeas petition to seek his freedom from prison and to be removed from the sex offender registry. A habeas is a civil action which claims that a defendant is being unlawfully incarcerated. In Georgia, the Attorney General's office responds to this type of legal action. We are calling on the Attorney General of Georgia, Thurbert Baker to use his power to act justly, and review and consent to Wilson's habeas petition. As the guardian of justice in this State, we appeal to him to correct this grave injustice. Please contact Attorney

General Baker at:
Office of the Georgia Attorney General.
Hon. Thurbert Baker
40 Capitol Square, SW
Atlanta, GA 30334
404-656-3300

From the GSCBWLA....

Gwen S. Cherry Black Women Lawyers Association (GSCBWLA)
Events and Announcements 4-09-07

HLA has committed to assisting 10 migrants who recently came ashore and needs your help in meeting that commitment. Whether you are an immigration practitioner or not they need you help. HLA can provide training for anyone who is interested in helping. They need people who can get to the Broward Transitional Center (BTC) immediately and conduct interviews. As much as possible, HLA will be providing updates at http://www.haitianlawyers.org/. For more information, please contact Jeff Cazeau at jcazeau@wsh-law.com.

Dade County Bar Association's Federal Courts Committee Presents: Guest Speaker: Honorable Judge Marcia Cooke, U.S. District Court, Southern District of Florida, Tuesday, April 11, 2007, 12:00 Noon, for additional information please access http://www.dadecountybar.org/calendar/event.nhtml?profile=calendar&UID=10837&amp;date=20070411.

Friends of Florida Women of Acheivement Annual Luncheon on April 11, 2007 at the Biltmore Hotel. Registration: 11:30 am. Lunch and Awards: 12 noon. Cost: $75. To RSVP call, (305) 445-3721. A flyer is attached.


The Metro-Miami Action Plan (MMAP) presents South Dade Small Business Capitalization Initiative Business Seminar and Career Job Fair on Wednesday, April 11, 2007 from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm at the Miami-Dade College Kendall Campus, 11011 S.W. 104th Street, Registration is in Building G. For more information or to RSVP, please contact MMAP at (305) 372-7600.


Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce Business Empowerment Networking Series seminar entitled, "Money." to teach entrepreneurs how to gain access to business capital for investments, expansion and developments. This session is also intended to teach how to develop marketing tools that will increase the growth of your business. The seminar will be held at the Radisson Hotel Miami, 1601 Biscayne Blvd. at 8:30 a.m. - 12 noon on April 12, 2007. Cost: Free. For more information, please call (305) 751-8648 or register online at http://www.m-dcc.org/.

The Florida Bar Equal Opportunities Law Section invites you to attend the 2007 Annual Diversity Symposium to be held April 12-13, 2007, in Miami at the Florida International University College of Law, University Park, 11200 S.W. 8th Street, Miami, FL 33199. This year's program will feature topics such as: Overcoming Obstacles: Lawyers with Disabilities, How to Become a Judge: War Stories from Federal, State and Appellate Judges, Loss of Future Diversity: Declining Minority Enrollment and Low Bar Passage Rate, Increasing Diversity in Corporate Law Offices and Law Firms: Techniques that Work. The symposium will conclude that evening with a reception honoring Minority and Women In-House Counsel. Attendees can earn CLE credit for the panel discussions.. Registration Information: There is no registration fee for this event and the receptions, but space is limited. You must register by April 6, 2007 to attend. If you have a Florida Bar number, you may register on-line at http://www.floridabar.org/ . The schedule is also attached.


The Black Law Students Association (BLSA) chapters of the University of Miami School of Law, St. Thomas University School of Law, and Florida International University College of Law have joined together to hold the First Annual South Florida Regional Black Law Students Association Gala on Saturday, April 14, 2007, at the new Radisson Miami Hotel. This Gala is an extraordinary event in that this is the first time the three chapters are collaborating to host a year-end awards banquet. It also marks the introduction of the South Florida Regional BLSA College Students Divisions. Cocktails: 7:30 p.m. Dinner: 8:30 p.m. Their hope is to bring together members of the legal community who have contributed immeasurably to the law students and the College Division members who are in serious need of guidance as evidenced by recent statistics. Please join us in the efforts to make this special event a meaningful opportunity for our schools to begin the process of reversing the trend of Black law student under-enrollment. Proceeds from the First Annual South Florida Regional Black Law Students Association Gala will be used to benefit the College Students Divisions at the University of Miami School of Law, St. Thomas University School of Law, and Florida International University College of Law. The value of sponsorship cannot be overstated. A sponsorship form has been attached for you convenience. The cost to attend is: $65 per person. Send payment to: University of Miami School of Law, 1311 Miller Drive, Room 112, Coral Gables, Florida 33146. For more information, please contact: um_blsa@yahoo.com. Those persons interested in being seated at a GSCBWLA table, please contact us at info@gsbwla.org after you have RSVPed.

Women's Chamber of Commerce Spring Luncheon on April 18, 2007, at Country Club of Coral Gables, 997 N Greenway Drive, Coral Gables, FL. Registration: 11:30 am Lunch: 12 noon. Cost: $30.00 Member with Advance RSVPs ; $40.00 Non-member with Advance RSVPs; $10 surcharge at the door for walk-ins. E-RSVP @ info@womenschamberofcommerce.org


Foster Care Review Inc. invites you to attend a FRIENDRAISER to celebrate its volunteers, friends, community partners and the best view in town. The event is hosted by Mellon and will be on Wednesday, April 18, 2007 at the Mellon Financial Center, 30th Floor, 1111 Brickell Avenue, Miami, FL 33131, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm. Complimentary cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. Parking will be validated at the reception. Price of Admission: Bring a friend who's interested in learning how Miami-Dade citizens are making a difference in the life of a child. For more information, please contact Ana Maria Pozo, Executive Director and RSVP by calling her at 305-573-6665, ext. 230.

The Junior League of Greater Miami has three scheduled "Open Houses" that will be open to women interested in coming out and learning about our many programs/projects that we partake. The scheduled "Open Houses" will be held on Saturday, March 24 at 1:30 pm, Wednesday, April 18 at 6:30 pm , and Tuesday, May 8, 2007 at 6 pm. All meetings will be held at Junior League of Miami Headquarters, 713 Biltmore Way, Coral Gables, Florida 33134. We would like to invite you to one of our "Open Houses.

Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce invites you to a Women of Color event at Macy's Aventura Fshion Store on April 28, 2007. A flyer is attached with more information.

NBA Midyear meeting will be May 9-13, 2007. Gertrude Rush honorees include: Dr. Johnetta Cole, Louis Gossett, Henry Latimer (posthumously), Evett Simmons and Professor Charles Ogleetree. Registration is available on line at the following website. http://www.nationalbar.org/news/conferences/27h_midyear_reg_form.shtml.

The Asian Pacific American Bar Association, Broward County Hispanic Bar Association, Broward County Women Lawyers Association, Caribbean Bar Association, Cuban American Bar Association, Dade County Bar Association, Equal Opportunity Section of the Florida Bar, Gwen S. Cherry Black Women Lawyers Association, Haitian Lawyers Association, Miami-Dade Florida Association of Women Lawyers, Minority Corporate Counsel Association, Monroe County Bar Association, Puerto Rican Bar Association of Florida, and Wilkie D. Ferguson, Jr. Bar Association are hosting a seminar for the purpose of bringing together minority attorneys and national and local counsel to discuss the importance of increasing diversity in the legal profession. The conference will be held in Key West, Florida, from May 17-19, 2007. It has been approved for 7 General CLE Credits by The Florida Bar. Registration for the conference will be available soon on The Florida Bar website.


Erica N. Wright
Attorney at Law
Gunster Yoakley
One Biscayne Tower
Suite 3400
2 Biscayne Blvd.
Miami, Florida 33131-1897
(305) 376-6032
(305) 376-6010 (fax)
Board Certified in City, County and Local Government Law
President of the Gwen S. Cherry Black Women Lawyers Association

Message from the National Chair

Dear Membership:

I am writing in regards to the recent comments by Don Imus about the Rutgers Women Basketball Team. (See http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3036713/ ). Your national board is taking swift action on this matter. We have contacted the National Association of Black Journalist, MSNBC, and Westwood One concerning the issue. We have issued a press release concerning the issue. See attached document.

While Mr. Imus's comments did not violate any laws, we have the power to stand up when an assault is made on the black community. Taking a stance on this issue falls squarely in line with our theme for this year and our founding purpose: "40 Years of History: Ensuring Inseverability." In addition to taking a public stance, NBLSA chapters may individually take action.

On a local level, NBLSA chapters can send a message directly to MSNBC and Imus. The Young Black Professional Guide has a form directly linked to MSNBC and Imus. (See http://ybpguide.com/contact-msnbc-and-imus). If your chapter would like to make a comment on this issue, you may sign your chapter name under the "name" field, and send a message directly to MSNBC and Imus.While instances like this may be viewed as reactionary politics by some, we must keep in mind the broader implications of accepting a two-week suspension for behavior such as Mr. Imus. I would encourage the membership to stay intensified not only concerning issues such as this, but our key initiatives for the upcoming year.

Working for you,

Eddie L. Koen Jr.
National Black Law Students AssociationNational Chair - Elect 2007-2008

L. Jared Boyd
National Black Law Students AssociationAttorney General - Elect 2007-2008

South Florida Leading Trial Lawyer Speaks...

FREE BARBRI PREP COURSE- FUTURE 3Ls

Do you want someone to pay for you to take the BarBri prep course?
Are you taking the Florida Bar?
If you answered yes to both questions, please visit http://www.fefonline.org/.

Future 3Ls may apply for this program, even if you have already paid for BARBRI.
If selected for this program, BARBRI will reimburse you all amounts you previously paid to BARBRI. The Florida Education Fund (FEF)

The Florida Bar Foundation recently awarded the Florida Education Fund (FEF) an Administration of Justice Grant to help prepare minority law graduates to pass the Florida Bar Examination. The FEF will use the grant funds to pay BARBRI Bar review course tuition for selected law graduates who are first-time test takers and Florida residents, giving preference to graduates from Florida law schools.

The next application deadline is April 6, 2007.
All application materials must be received in their office by that date.

Florida Education Fund
813-272-2772
Fax: 813-272-2784
Web site: www.fefonline.org

Order your shirt TODAY!

WANT MORE OBAMA!!!

Senator Barack Obama

is coming to Tallahassee this

Friday (March 30th)

as part of his presidential campaign.

There is an event open to the public at noon on Friday featuring

Sen. Obama at the Challenger center.

The cost is $100 for a ticket and interested students should contact Screven Watson at 385-9880 for more information.

1st ANNUAL SOUTH FLORIDA REGIONAL BLACK LAW STUDENTS ASSOCIATION GALA

A Celebration of Outstanding Mentors and the Introduction of the
South Florida Regional BLSA College Divisions

A Black Tie Affair

Hosted by :
University of Miami School of Law
St. Thomas University School of Law
Florida International University College of Law

SATURDAY, APRIL 14, 2007

Radisson Miami Hotel, Concerto Ballroom
1601 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, Florida

Cocktail Hour: 7:30p.m.
Dinner: 8:30p.m.

Tickets:
$65 for professionals
$40 for students
$30 for paid BLSA members

Please make checks payable to (if paying by check):
Black Law Students Association
Checks can be mailed to:
Black Law Students Association
University of Miami School of Law,
Career Planning Center
P.O. Box 248087
Coral Gables, FL 33142

Contact: Jessica Miller (305)776-8074 or stublsa2006@yahoo.com

D.C. Internship in Senator Barack Obama's Office

JOB OPPORTUNITY JOB OPPORTUNITY JOB OPPORTUNITY
*****************************************************
In case you have students, family or church members who may be interested. Summer internships in Washington DC are still available through March 23rd. They are looking for students who are interested in politics, communications and public service, and who have strong writing and research skills. Bilingual and multilingual students are particularly encouraged to apply. You can get further information and the application at http://obama.senate.gov/services.--

Kelli Byers Hooper, MPH, JD candidate
Cumberland School of Law, 3L
National Black Law Students Association,
Southern Region Chair
kbhooper@samford.edu
southern@nblsa.org

Race and the Death Penalty

Race & The Death Penalty:
Twenty Years After McCleskey
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Monday, March 19, 2007, Room 352

On Monday March 19, 2007, the University of Miami School of Law will hold a symposium on the twentieth anniversary of McCleskey v. Kemp, where a panel of distinguished legal scholars, including Professor David Baldus, will explore the legacy of the McCleskey decision and whether it ultimately created an impenetrable barrier to the use of statistics in the context of the death penalty. The symposium will also discuss the social, historical and statistical connection between race and the death penalty; the problem of unconscious racism will also be a central focus.

Featuring:
Professor David C Baldus
Author of the Baldus study presented to the Supreme Court in McCleskey v. Kemp

Professor Stephen B. Bright
Former Director of the Southern Center for Human Rights

Christina Swarns
Director of the Criminal Justice Project of the NAACP Legal Defense & Education Fund, Inc.

Moderator
Professor Donald M. Jones
A Professor at the University of Miami School of Law and a Leading Legal Scholar in the Area of Civil Rights

Discussant
Professor Kenneth Williams
A Visiting Professor at the University of Miami School of Law and a National Authority on Capital PunishmentSCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
11:00: Welcome and IntroductionProfessor Donald M. Jones

11:05: Introduction of the Panelists

Peter M. Yoxall

11:10: Panel Discussion: Race & the Death Penalty, Twenty Years After McCleskeyProfessor David C. BaldusProfessor Stephen B. BrightCristina Swarns

12:10: Questions and CommentsDirected by Professor Kenneth Williams

12:50: Final Comment and ThanksProfessor Donald M. Jones

1:00: Faculty Luncheon