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Informed Citizens

are Better Citizens

On September 18, the New Jersey State Bar Foundation hosted the 2017 Medal of Honor Awards Dinner at The Palace at Somerset Park. Over 300 guests paid tribute to the recipients of the Foundation’s highest and most prestigious award, the Honorable Marie White Bell (Ret.) and Joseph P. LaSala Esq.
Judge Bell addressed the audience and saluted her many colleagues and friends and related why after 12 years as a scientist specializing in parasitology and virology research she launched her second career in the law in response to the civil rights movement. The 81-year old Bell urged the audience to advance and cherish the principles of freedom and protection of the rights of all people.
Mr. LaSala graciously pointed to the accomplishments of Judge Bell and also spoke about the Bar Foundation’s mission. He encouraged others to follow in the footsteps of Judge Bell and past Medal of Honor recipients by serving the community and the bar. Mr. LaSala stated, when presented with the award, “I will cherish this til the end of my life…you have made my family and me very happy.”