Italian American Lawyers Assn.


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From Year One to the Present

1997 Year 21

President: Jullian Bellenghi

The year was kicked off in February with a discussion by media experts of the O.J. Simpson civil trial, followed in March by a talk by retired Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Sam Ciancetti on ADR and ethics. The annual "Gaelic and Garlic" night, a joint meeting with the Irish American Bar Assn., took place in April, enlivened by singing of Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Larry Crispo. The annual "Evening With the Supreme Court" and "Marco Polo Night" were other highlights.

1998 Year 22

President: Sheldon Capeloto

Capeloto, at his installation at the Friar's Club, revealed plans for an exciting year, which would include efforts to recruit law students into the IALA's ranks. Tommy Lasorda -- guest speaker in 1982 -- made a return appearance, treating the audience to a spate of humorous reminscences. The March meeting featured an entertaining and practical talk by Court of Appeal Presiding Justice Paul Turner on effective brief-writing -- including use of short, declarative sentences and avoidance of footnotes. The annual "Gaelic and Garlic" night and "Marco Polo Night" were also successes.

1999 Year 23

President: Charles Lombino

Lombino presided over lively meetings, including the annual "Gaelic and Garlic" Night in April which, for the first time, featured a "tall tale" contest. There was a roast of past IALA President Phil Bartenetti in May. Los Angeles Sheriff Lee Baca was speaker at the September meeting, presenting spirited oratory. The club met with the California Supreme Court in October and held the annual Marco Polo Night the following month.

2000 Year 24

President: Douglas Collodel

Court of Appeal Presiding Justice Paul Turner was back at the September meeting, this time moderating a debate between District Attorney Gil Garcetti, and his challenger, Deputy District Attorney Steve Cooley. National Democratic officeholders appeared at an Aug. 16 meeting held during the Democratic National Committee. The annual Supreme Court night was held in October. Rather than remarks being made by individual justices as in the past, Chief Justice Ronald George spoke for the court, as he did in succeeding years. "Gaelic and Garlic Night" again featured a tall tale contest.

2001 Year 25

President: Chris Frisco

Frisco, son of retired Los Angeles Superior Court Judge and longtime IALA member Charles Frisco, took center stage at the Installation Ball in a trenchcoat, parodying stereotypical portrayals on television and films of Italians as gangesters. The annual "Gaelic and Garlic" Night featured joke-telling. Speakers during the year included Los Angeles attorney Thomas Girardi and television producer Garry Marshall. An in-depth discussion of Prop. 36 took place at the July meeting. Chief Justice Ronald George addressed the organization.