As a matter of personal privilege…　

This past weekend, our state hosted the ABI Southeastern Workshop in Hilton Head. The program at this regional seminar is always very good, covers cutting edge topics and attracts many of the Southeast’s best bankruptcy lawyers and reorganization professionals. I am privileged to have served as the Judicial Chair for the last couple of years as I will next year.　

The seminar is usually held at the Ritz Carlton on Amelia’s Island, Florida, an outstanding venue. Whenever the seminar ventures elsewhere, the ABI expects a significant drop in attendance. So the SC members of the Advisory Board and I felt challenged. Our Board members, Christie Brimm, Jane Downey, Michael Weaver, Rory Whelehan, Dave Wheeler and Jody Bedenbaugh, did an amazing job of helping to plan the seminar and in reaching out to the SC Bar to participate. Add to that George Cauthen, who encouraged a record attendance by Nelson Mullins lawyers from across the country, and Bill McCarthy, who personally made calls to lawyers around the state to encourage attendance. I also understand that several firms joined in sponsoring the seminar (although I am shielded from that information).　

While the numbers are not final, I think we had 60 SC attendees- well beyond the usual 10 or so attendees- and the total attendance exceeded expectations. What’s more, our Bar was well represented in the program with presentations by Johnny Butler, Christie Brimm, Cynthia Lowery and Michael Beal- all of whom did an outstanding job!　

Thanks to all who attended, our state and Bar shined! I was very proud and appreciative. While the program was a great success, I was primarily reminded of the closeness and camaraderie of our Bar and how lucky I am to work with you each day.　

My sincere thanks to all of you who attended or otherwise supported the hosting of this seminar.