Vested Interest - May 1998 Issue

The President’s Thoughts

As I prepare to relinquish leadership of this organization and join the ranks of past presidents, I am moved to reflect upon my experience as well as what we’ve been able to accomplish together.

For the last year, I have labored monthly to create each of The President’s Thoughts. I have relied upon being philosophical, informative, humorous, satirical and even poetic to engender communication and interest. Although many were admittedly unconventional - you must consider the source, hopefully they helped to inspire and inform the membership while offering a bit of entertainment. I will miss the opportunity to exercise my literacy license.

It needs to be acknowledged that our goals could not have been achieved without the assistance and guidance of our ITLA staff. Their outstanding service deserves great appreciation. On behalf of all of us, Thank you Jim, Linda, Jill, Paula, Tracey, Jody and Ed. You are a magnificent seven!

Being the President of this Association compels one to integrate the various factors that impact upon the law and society. This process imparts a cohesive perspective which deepens one’s admiration and respect for the role that lawyers play in maintaining and promoting fundamental rights. This has made it an honor to have worked with so many talented and motivated persons committed to the common cause of justice. It has been an enlightening and comraderous adventure. I have truly enjoyed serving this organization.

Despite the multitude of activities and responsibilities over the last year, it seems like only yesterday that it all began. This feeling is due in great part to our tremendous success. (Had our fortunes been otherwise, I’m sure I’d feel more like a late finishing tri-athlete.) We have greatly improved our political and public image. The message of equality and truth we foster has heightened public awareness and exposed the nefarious subterfuge of those profiteers who would strip the people of their rights. The declaration of constitutional infirmity in Best was resounding corroboration of our conviction, credibility and capability. However, we are well aware that we cannot rely upon past accomplishments to address our future concerns.

We have learned that we are only as successful as our ability to address the issues and reach the people in a timely fashion. Experience has taught us that we must have a pro-active plan if we are to be effective against entities of greater size and wealth. These objectives have been and will be greatly facilitated through our decision to permanently implement the expertise of a professional public relations firm. Further, our web site will prove instrumental in disseminating our message to the public and the media by affording access twenty-four hours a day. In conjunction, the synergy of these services will profoundly promulgate our cause.

This administration has sought to fortify ITLA’s legacy in anticipation of the increased demands that will soon be placed upon us. The challenge of obtaining statewide political majorities while thwarting the effects of national anti-consumer campaigns will require optimal resources and the dedication of our membership. We know what is at stake. House Bill 20 may have been defeated but its evil spawn still lingers. Only our continued commitment can forestall its resurrection.

With my presidential tenure about to expire, I confidently look forward to passing the torch to our President Elect, Martin Healy. He is an accomplished trial lawyer who also possesses the requisite leadership and political skills to guide us through the coming year. Additionally, he should bring us the luck of the Irish. Not that I’m superstitious, but in the past our fate has paralleled certain coincidences.

For instance, over the past 7 years the Bulls have reigned as NBA champs five times. In the two years they fell short, ITLA followed suite. In 93-94, the Bulls lost in the Eastern Conference finals and we lost the House of Representatives. In 94-95, Houston got the NBA title and we got Tort Deform. Now, I’m not saying that as goes the Bulls, so goes ITLA. But, I’m glad they won a fifth title during my term and hope for Marty’s sake that they make it six during his!

With or without the Bulls, our membership has cause to look ahead with great optimism. We have earned it. Although I now fade from the forefront, I remain loyal and committed to the aspiration of this Association. I bid you all a fond farewell!

Laird M. Ozmon
Soon to be Past President
Illinois Trial Lawyers Association