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President's Message
by Donna Johnston  

Happy New Year to all!

I’ve asked each of the 2006 Board members to write a little something about themselves to be included in this newsletter. Not only did it seem right that our members get to know the Board a little better, but I thought I could use the articles as justification to write a brief President’s message. You see, although I enjoy leadership positions, I don’t enjoy the spotlight that comes with the position.

To start off the New Year, the Board of the Fresno Paralegal Association held the Planning Meeting on January 21st at my home. I believe the meeting was successful as the attendees not only included the Board but a paralegal student, a paralegal new to the Valley, and a new member. The general feeling was one of new ideas, excitement, and fun.

The Board has decided 2006 is the “YEAR OF THE MEMBER.” What does this mean to you? It means that we’re going to ensure every paralegal in Fresno County has access to affordable MCLE credit by ensuring our general meetings provide MCLE credit, that we’re going to actively educate the legal profession of a paralegal’s role, including the services and benefits paralegals provide, and we’re going to attempt to bring back the Fall educational seminar.

We are also going to continue pursuing bringing the CLA test to Fresno. We’ve been recently advised by a NALA representative that the review materials are being revamped and we should wait to begin studying for the test until the new test materials are completed. We’ve already arranged for the testing location and a proctor. As soon as the testing materials are available, we’ll be ready to start up a study group. If you’re interested in taking the CLA, please contact me at Dzinnia@sbcglobal.net. I will then contact you when we’re ready to get going.

The start of the New Year is also the start of FPA’s new fiscal year, which means it is time to pay our dues again. Enclosed with this newsletter is a copy of the FPA application which I would ask you return along with your remittance. Please keep us updated with any changes you make, especially regarding your email address. Since we are primarily communicating by email to our members, it is imperative that we have your current and correct email address. While you are completing the application, I would ask you to review the committees/interests section of the application and let us know what area(s) you would be interested in.

You are all welcome to attend the Board of Directors meetings which are held once a month. The Board meetings are held at McCormick Barstow. Water and soft drinks are provided. The meeting dates are listed below. If you are able, please come to the meeting and share your viewpoints. We are only as strong as our members!

I am looking forward to working with the new Board this year and serving as your President. If you would like to contact me, please email me at Dzinnia@sbcglobal.net, or telephone me at 349-2350.

Donna Johnston, President
Fresno Paralegal Association