THE PARAVIEW.4Q.2008.final

THE PARAVIEWQuarterly Publication of the Metrolina Paralegal Association : 

THE PARAVIEWQuarterly Publication of the Metrolina Paralegal Association 2008 FORTH QUARTER EDITION

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3 Nova Office Strategies, founded in 1999, is a document service and facilities management company. Nova partners with law firms and corporations to provide on-site and off-site management of paper and electronic documents including electronic data discovery, OCR, coding services, black & white copying, color print on demand, binding, facsimile, mail, conference room, break room and courier services. Nova specializes in solving our clients’ every day document challenges through our extensive network of people, equipment and resources. Jason Ryan President jryan@novaoffice.net Greg Norton Vice President, Corporate Document Services gnorton@novaoffice.net Doug Moore Vice President, Business Development dmoore@novaoffice.net Adam Gordon Business Manager agordon@novaoffice.net Charles Evans Director, Facilites Management cevans@novaoffice.net Ken Bundrum Managing Partner, Raleigh kbundrum@novaoffice.net LaSha Cox, SPHR Human Resources Coordinator lcox@novaoffice.net Nova’s facilities have the latest in production equipment combined with cutting edge imaging and technology software. We produce your project in a secure environment with attention to detail and commitment to quality. When you choose Nova, be assured that your project is in safe hands. President’s Message It is hard to believe fall is here already. Summer vacations are over and everyone is back into normal work routines. Octoberfest, our fall seminar, was October 10 at Doubletree. I hope everyone who attended enjoyed our location and speakers and was able to learn something helpful to them. Plans are being finalized for our holiday social which will be held at our monthly meeting on December 11. Please mark your calendars and plan to join us. We are also making plans for our annual seminar which will be held in February. If anyone has any suggestions for topics or speakers they would be interested in having at the seminar, please contact me or April Ritter. Thank you all for being a part of MPA. And as always, if you have any suggestions or would like to volunteer for any committees, please do not hesitate to contact me. Anne H. Patterson, NCCP President

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4 IN THIS ISSUE President’s Message………………………………………………..Page 3 From the Editor………………………………………………………Page 4 Scary Assignments………………………………………………….Page 6 Mark Your Calendars.……………...……………………………….Page 7 Top 10 Principles……………………………………………………Page 8 Octoberfest…………………………………………………………..Page 9 Monthly Meeting Recap…………………………………………….Page 10 Estate Lady’s Book………………………………………………….Page 13 16 Rules to Success………………………………………………..Page 14 MPA Board Members……………………………………………….Page 15 MPA Patron Members………………………………………………Pages 16-17 Breast Cancer Awareness………………………………………….Pages 18-19 From the Editor We all go through many seasons in life which shape who we are, and what we are to become. Some of these seasons are harder to endure than others—those are the ones we learn from the most. Some of these seasons are simple little “ah-ha” moments that make our lives better in some way. Some of these seasons consist of people coming into, and flowing out of our lives for many different reasons. We must embrace these changes, and become better people, employees, parents, friends, and partners. As with all seasons there must be change. I have entered into a new season in my life which has taken me back to school to complete my bachelors degree. At the beginning of this year I took a position with Duke Energy which allowed me to use my Paralegal background, but lead me to a completely new career. In order to make the best of this new career I must complete my education. With all of the other hats I wear in my life, it will be impossible for me to continue as the editor of The Paraview. It is with much regret that I must resign this position. Thank you MPA for all of your kind words and support that have come with each issue of The Paraview. I would like to extend an invitation to anyone who would like to become more involved with the MPA to become the new Editor for The Paraview. Please contact any Board member for more information. I wish you all many new wonderful seasons that lead to wonderful opportunities in life. Laurie K. Thomas, CLA, NCCP LKThomas@duke-energy.com

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5 THE PARAVIEWThe Metrolina Paralegal Association, PO Box 36260, Charlotte, NC 28236www.charlotteareaparalegals.com, info@charlotteparalegals.com ADVERTISING RATES The Metrolina Paralegal Association publishes The Paraview, which includes substantive legal articles of interest and general news for the career paralegal. This publication is distributed to approximately 250 members of the MPA in the Charlotte area. The membership of the MPA includes paralegals from private law firms, corporations, title companies, government agencies, local community colleges, educators, and paralegal students. Advertising is available in The Paraview, which is the only local professional publication of this type in the Metrolina area. Our magazine will keep your display advertisement circulating in the legal community for a three-month period. Our display ad rates per issue are as follows: 1/8 page size (business card) $35.00 1/4 page size $60.00 1/2 page size $110.00 Full page size $150.00 Back cover inside $175.00 For more information contact: Paraview Editor c/o: Metrolina Paralegal Association PO Box 36260, Charlotte, NC 28236 THE DIRECTORIES ARE HERE!   As of October, 2008 the MPA has 254 members!! If you would like to get in touch with any of those members now you can! The directories were handed out at Octoberfest (October 10, 2008) and they will be distributed again at the November meeting (November 13, 2008).  For those that cannot attend the November meeting the directories will be mailed.   Thanks to Nova for doing a great job on our directories.

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6 ‘Scary’ Assignments Can be Good By Satyra Riggins, CLA A promotion from legal receptionist to paralegal at the small law firm where I was working 10 years ago dropped a career revelation into my unsuspecting lap. My supervising attorney called me into her office one day because she said she needed my help with a “little project” for a client matter that was going to trial in a few months. The little project was to take the initial cut at drafting a case chronology. My first thought was not just… What?!, but…How?! This was scary. I had never done anything like this before, but my supervising attorney patiently explained what a case chronology was and what a valuable tool it would be to her before and during the trial. I gathered all relevant documents and deposition transcripts and began the assignment. Drafting the case chronology turned out to be an enjoyable, although challenging, experience. This assignment turned out to be one of my greatest learning experiences as a beginning paralegal. Writing the case chronology helped me become intimately familiar with all the documents and deposition testimony in this complicated case. In addition to learning the key dates for specific events, I also found contradictions between the documents and the deposition testimony. This was extremely helpful to my attorneys in subsequent depositions. During trial preparation, I was a whiz at pulling out relevant documents when the attorneys had questions, and I could accurately recite dates when there was confusion about the sequence of events. My attorneys knew that they could rely on me for any timeline assistance during the grueling days of depositions and trial preparation. My first thought was not just… What?!, but…How?! Do not be afraid to take on unfamiliar tasks. Be open to learning something new everyday. Willingness to learn is a valuable quality in paralegals especially with the rapidly changing landscape of the legal environment. 2. Keep lines of communication open so you can ask questions if you need clarification on the assignment. Your attorneys would prefer a multitude of questions rather than risk misunderstandings that could delay efficient completion of the assigned task. 3. Be proactive rather than reactive. Take the initiative. During the trial, I sat behind my attorney and discreetly passed her notes when I felt that an additional document or deposition citation was needed to help with questioning witnesses. My attorney did not always have time to heed all my suggestions, but I felt like a valuable member of the case team by being allowed to serve in this capacity. This task taught me three important lessons which still serve me well a decade after that scary case chronology assignment: Unfamiliar projects are not so intimidating after you have aggressively tackled an unexpected project and checked off the individual tasks one at a time. The new knowledge you acquire will add significantly to your expertise as a paralegal and the next project that gets dropped in your lap won’t be so scary. Satyra Riggins, CLA is a litigation paralegal at the Charlotte, NC, law firm of Robinson, Bradshaw, & Hinson, PA. She is a graduate of Baylor University, Waco, TX, with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science. She is a member of the Metrolina Paralegal Association in Charlotte, NC and has been a CLA since 2000. She has conquered her fear of unexpected and unfamiliar projects

MARK YOUR CALENDARS4th Quarter 2008 : 

7 MARK YOUR CALENDARS4th Quarter 2008 Nov. 2nd – Daylight Savings Time Ends Nov. 4th – Election Day Nov. 5th – Executive Board Meeting Nov. 13th – MPA Monthly Meeting Nov. 27th - Thanksgiving Dec. 3rd – Executive Board Meeting Dec. 11th – Holiday Party-date subject to change Dec. 21st – Hanukkah Begins Dec. 25th – Christmas Day Dec. 31st – New Years Eve Jan. 1 – Happy New Year!! Jan. 7 – Executive Board Meeting Jan. 8 – MPA Monthly Meeting NOVEMBER MPA MEETING The speaker for November will be Charles Keller, Jr. who is the Community Access & Outreach Administrator 26th Judicial District of North Carolina.  He will be speaking about the jury duty process in Mecklenburg County, interjected with some funny stories during his time working with the process.  Be sure to join us for his talk, "The Dog Ate My Summons And Other Entertaining Jury Excuses and Anecdotes About Jury Service in Mecklenburg County."

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8 1. Demonstrate You Value People Your regard for people shines through in all of your actions and words. Your facial expression, your body language, and your words express what you are thinking about the people who report to you. Your goal is to demonstrate your appreciation for each person's unique value. No matter how an employee is performing on their current task, your value for the employee as a human being should never falter and always be visible. 2. Share Leadership Vision Help people feel that they are part of something bigger than themselves and their individual job. Do this by making sure they know and have access to the organization's overall mission, vision, and strategic plans. 3. Share Goals and Direction Share the most important goals and direction for your group. Where possible, either make progress on goals measurable and observable, or ascertain that you have shared your picture of a positive outcome with the people responsible for accomplishing the results. 4. Trust People Trust the intentions of people to do the right thing, make the right decision, and make choices that, while maybe not exactly what you would decide, still work. 5. Provide Information for Decision Making Make certain that you have given people, or made sure that they have access to, all of the information they need to make thoughtful decisions. 6. Delegate Authority and Impact Opportunities, Not Just More Work Don't just delegate the drudge work; delegate some of the fun stuff, too. You know, delegate the important meetings, the committee memberships that influence product development and decision making, and the projects that people and customers notice. The employee will grow and develop new skills. Your plate will be less full so you can concentrate on contribution. Your reporting staff will gratefully shine - and so will you. 7. Provide Frequent Feedback Provide frequent feedback so that people know how they are doing. Sometimes, the purpose of feedback is reward and recognition. People deserve your constructive feedback, too, so they can continue to develop their knowledge and skills. 8. Solve Problems: Don't Pinpoint Problem People When a problem occurs, ask what is wrong with the work system that caused the people to fail, not what is wrong with the people. Worst case response to problems? Seek to identify and punish the guilty. (Thank you, Dr. Deming.) 9. Listen to Learn and Ask Questions to Provide Guidance Provide a space in which people will communicate by listening to them and asking them questions. Guide by asking questions, not by telling grown up people what to do. People generally know the right answers if they have the opportunity to produce them. When an employee brings you a problem to solve, ask, "what do you think you should do to solve this problem?" Or, ask, "what action steps do you recommend?" Employees can demonstrate what they know and grow in the process. 10. Help Employees Feel Rewarded and Recognized for Empowered Behavior When employees feel under-compensated, under-titled for the responsibilities they take on, under-noticed, under-praised, and under-appreciated, don’t expect results from employee empowerment. The basic needs of employees must feel met for employees to give you their discretionary energy, that extra effort that people voluntarily invest in work. Top 10 Principles of Employee Empowerment From Susan M. Heathfield The Credo of an Empowering Manager Looking for real management advice about people? Your goal is to create a work environment in which people are empowered, productive, contributing, and happy. Don't hobble them by limiting their tools or information. Trust them to do the right thing. Get out of their way and watch them catch fire. These are the ten most important principles for managing people in a way that reinforces employee empowerment, accomplishment, and contribution. These management actions enable both the people who work with you and the people who report to you to soar.

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9 Octoberfest 2008 Paralegals from across the region traveled to the Metrolina Paralegal Association’s 4th annual Octoberfest CLE Seminar in Charlotte on Friday, October 10. Over 150 paralegals representing almost all areas of law were provided with six hours of CLE for credit towards their NCCP and CLA certifications. In the past, the Metrolina Paralegal Association provided the Octoberfest CLE seminar as a free benefit to its members. However, with the greatly-increasing number of paralegals now certified through the State of North Carolina, and with an ever-increasing number of CLAs in our area, the seminar has became so popular that it had to be relocated to a larger hotel in order to provide adequate space for the attendees. The DoubleTree Hotel in Charlotte’s SouthPark area was this year’s location. Because of the relocation and additional costs associated with having more attendees, the total cost for the seminar jumped and so a $50.00 fee was charged to each MPA member this year—still a good deal for six hours of CLE and a luncheon. MPA Second Vice President April Ritter, CLA, NCCP organized this year’s seminar. Practice areas covered in the seminar included Probate/Estates, Real Property, Litigation, and, of course, Ethics. This year’s presenters were: Julie Hall, “The Estate Lady” – The Hearse Doesn’t Have a Trailer Hitch – What you Need to Know About Personal Property Salvatore Balsamo, Esq., Barristers Title Service of the Carolinas – Scrivener’s Statute, Corrective Instruments, and All That Fun Stuff Giovanni Masucci, Capitol City Consulting, LLC – Computer Forensics: Untapped Potential Evidence Camille Stell, Paralegal, K&L Gates – Ethics Revisited: 10 Tips in 60 Minutes MPA speakers do not receive compensation for their services, so we are grateful to each one for the time and effort he or she gave. We also are very appreciative of the donations provided by our speakers. Our CLE seminars would not be the same without the MPA’s patron members. We are so thankful to our patron members for their generous support of the MPA and for their provision of door prizes and/or goodie bag items, which are always a highlight of the seminar. Many thanks to those patron members who contributed: Choice Translating Carolina Copy Services Huseby, Inc. Executive Document Services Special Counsel NOVA Office Strategies Chicago Title Insurance Corporation Stewart Title of the Carolinas Octoberfest is always a good time to bond with those who understand and participate in the paralegal profession. Seeing the diverse mix of ladies and (some) gentlemen who enjoy their work and take their profession seriously is a morale booster and a confirmation of one’s occupational choice. We look forward to seeing our MPA members next year at Octoberfest!

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10 AUGUST MPA MEETING Detective M. Harris of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Criminal Intelligence Unit gave a historical overview of how gangs began in 19th century and an up-to-date slide presentation of the Gang of One (GO1) prevention program which was established in 2003 in Charlotte. Community collaboration is encouraged, and in 2007 a Gang Prevention Coalition was established. Anyone wanting more information about this program can contact Detective Harris at 704 -336-7889 or e-mail: mharris1@cmpd.org. SEPTEMBER MPA MEETING Bob Breslin, a Fixed Income Account Manager with Mergent, Inc., spoke on the topic “Simple Solutions for Financial Research” and gave a slide show presentation on Bond Viewer, one of the company’s research products which is offered with a 3-week free trial basis. Please contact the Client Service Team and/or Mr. Breslin at (704) 559-7918 for additional information. Also at our September meeting we heard from Ms. Angela Yoo, the Volunteer Coordinator at the Council for Children’s Rights.   The CCR is the largest and most comprehensive legal and advocacy organization for children in the Southeast. They have a staff of 30 and need volunteers. Contact Ms. Yoo at (704) 372-7961 if you are interested in the program or in volunteering. You cannot erase the past, but you can use it to improve the future.

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11 Become a CLA/CP Take The CLA Exam in Charlotte The exam will be held Friday and Saturday, December 5 & 6, 2008.  The exam runs from 8:30 to 3:30 on Friday and 8:30 to 4:00 on Saturday.  BB&T is donating a conference room and the exam will be given at 5130 Parkway Plaza Blvd, off of Billy Graham.  Stay tuned for more information on the exam and possible study groups. For more information, please contact Terry Irvin at Bank of America, (980) 388-7030. I cannot design another me better than God did! TEDDY BEARS NEEDED! NOVEMBER HAS HISTORICALLY BEEN MPA’S MONTH TO GIVE OUR MEMBERS AN OPPORTUNITY TO GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY. THIS YEAR THE MPA WILL HOLD A TEDDY BEAR DRIVE. TEDDY BEARS ARE KEPT IN EMERGENCY VEHICLES TO GIVE TO CHILDREN WHO ARE INVOLVED IN ACCIDENTS TO HELP COMFORT THEM. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO GIVE TO THIS DRIVE, PLEASE BRING A NEW TEDDY BEAR THAT IS 6 INCHES TO 8 INCHES TALL TO THE NOVEMBER MEETING.

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12 Find the Hidden Message Find all the words then fill in the blanks with the letters that are not used. There is a hidden message to the MPA!

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13 The Estate Lady Announces  Her New Book: "The Boomer Burden"Dealing with Your Parents' Lifetime Accumulation of Stuff  Testimonials   Julie has created a masterpiece on how to help your parents and yourself deal with several very stressful and emotionally-charged issues. This book is the most comprehensive and thoughtful work on a difficult and complex aspect of life.  A must-read for Boomers dealing with everybody's "stuff"!   Adolphus W. Dunn III, CPA, CFP, AEP   "... The Boomer Burden is an exceptionally well-written and wise book.  It speaks with the voice of experience and comforts with a deep empathy for this painful period of life. There is no doubt in my mind that this book is essential reading for both older parents and adult children--and it will be especially beneficial if they read it together."   Archibald D. Hart, Ph.D., FPP Clinical Psychologist    "If Boomers want a jump on what to expect as the lives of their parents wane; If Boomers want a blueprint for how to handle their parents' "stuff" and more; and if Boomers want anecdotal commentary that presents practical guidance for things they never thought of, then this little jewel is worth the time it takes to read and the modest cost to own."   A. Frank Johns, J.D., CELA, Elder Law Attorney, Booth Harrington & Johns, PLLC      Julie Hall, The Estate Lady, is an estate contents expert specializing in liquidation, personal property appraisals and consultations for the dissolution of personal property.  For more on Julie, please visit:   www.TheEstateLady.com Dear Friends and Colleagues, 78 million Baby Boomers and 40 million of their parents need this new book!  It was written for every heir, executor, employee and family member.  How do you dissolve a lifetime of accumulation?   Every day, approximately 4,800 Baby Boomers lose their parents, leaving behind a lot more than just memories. Now what? Whether your parents are still alive or you're in the middle of a crisis, The Boomer Burden has solutions.    The Estate Lady provides trustworthy counsel on how to:   Divide your parents' estate with peace of mind  Minimize fighting with family members during the estate settlement process Identify potential items of value in the home Learn what to keep, throw away, donate and sell Have "that conversation" with your parents Prepare your own children for the future You will be given practical, effective steps for selling and distributing your parents' assets in a way that both honors them and promotes family harmony.   This book would make the perfect gift for you, your parents, siblings, clients, colleagues, etc.  I am sure you will find The Boomer Burden to be invaluable and bring peace of mind during an overwhelming time. Please visit www.TheBoomerBurden.com for more information. Sincerely,   Julie HallThe Estate Lady Testimonials Julie has created a masterpiece on how to help your parents and yourself deal with several very stressful and emotionally-charged issues. This book is the most comprehensive and thoughtful work on a difficult and complex aspect of life.  A must-read for Boomers dealing with everybody's "stuff"!   Adolphus W. Dunn III, CPA, CFP, AEP   "... The Boomer Burden is an exceptionally well-written and wise book.  It speaks with the voice of experience and comforts with a deep empathy for this painful period of life. There is no doubt in my mind that this book is essential reading for both older parents and adult children--and it will be especially beneficial if they read it together."   Archibald D. Hart, Ph.D., FPP Clinical Psychologist  Fuller Theological Seminary Author, Thrilled to Death   "If Boomers want a jump on what to expect as the lives of their parents wane; If Boomers want a blueprint for how to handle their parents' "stuff" and more; and if Boomers want anecdotal commentary that presents practical guidance for things they never thought of, then this little jewel is worth the time it takes to read and the modest cost to own."   A. Frank Johns, J.D., CELA, Elder Law Attorney, Booth Harrington & Johns, PLLC Dear Friends and Colleagues, 78 million Baby Boomers and 40 million of their parents need this new book!  It was written for every heir, executor, employee and family member. How do you dissolve a lifetime of accumulation? Every day, approximately 4,800 Baby Boomers lose their parents, leaving behind a lot more than just memories.   Now what?                          Whether your parents are still alive or you're in the middle of a crisis, The Boomer Burden has solutions.    The Estate Lady provides trustworthy counsel on how to:   Divide your parents' estate with peace of mind  Minimize fighting with family members during the estate settlement process Identify potential items of value in the home Learn what to keep, throw away, donate and sell Have "that conversation" with your parents Prepare your own children for the future You will be given practical, effective steps for selling and distributing your parents' assets in a way that both honors them and promotes family harmony.   www.TheBoomerBurden.com This book would make the perfect gift for you, your parents, siblings, clients, colleagues, etc.  I am sure you will find The Boomer Burden to be invaluable and bring peace of mind during an overwhelming time.   Sincerely,  Julie HallThe Estate Lady Forward email

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14 Bob Parson’s 16 Rules to Success: 1. Get and stay out of your comfort zone. I believe that not much happens of any significance when we're in our comfort zone. I hear people say, "But I'm concerned about security." My response to that is simple: "Security is for cadavers."2. Never give up. Almost nothing works the first time it's attempted. Just because what you're doing does not seem to be working, doesn't mean it won't work. It just means that it might not work the way you're doing it. If it was easy, everyone would be doing it, and you wouldn't have an opportunity.3. When you're ready to quit, you're closer than you think. There's an old Chinese saying that I just love, and I believe it is so true. It goes like this: "The temptation to quit will be greatest just before you are about to succeed."4. With regard to whatever worries you, not only accept the worst thing that could happen, but make it a point to quantify what the worst thing could be. Very seldom will the worst consequence be anywhere near as bad as a cloud of "undefined consequences." My father would tell me early on, when I was struggling and losing my shirt trying to get Parsons Technology going, "Well, Robert, if it doesn't work, they can't eat you."5. Focus on what you want to have happen. Remember that old saying, "As you think, so shall you be."6. Take things a day at a time. No matter how difficult your situation is, you can get through it if you don't look too far into the future, and focus on the present moment. You can get through anything one day at a time.7. Always be moving forward. Never stop investing. Never stop improving. Never stop doing something new. The moment you stop improving your organization, it starts to die. Make it your goal to be better each and every day, in some small way. Remember the Japanese concept of Kaizen. Small daily improvements eventually result in huge advantages.8. Be quick to decide. Remember what General George S. Patton said: "A good plan violently executed today is far and away better than a perfect plan tomorrow."9. Measure everything of significance. I swear this is true. Anything that is measured and watched, improves.10. Anything that is not managed will deteriorate. If you want to uncover problems you don't know about, take a few moments and look closely at the areas you haven't examined for a while. I guarantee you problems will be there.11. Pay attention to your competitors, but pay more attention to what you're doing. When you look at your competitors, remember that everything looks perfect at a distance. Even the planet Earth, if you get far enough into space, looks like a peaceful place.12. Never let anybody push you around. In our society, with our laws and even playing field, you have just as much right to what you're doing as anyone else, provided that what you're doing is legal. 13. Never expect life to be fair. Life isn't fair. You make your own breaks. You'll be doing good if the only meaning fair has to you, is something that you pay when you get on a bus (i.e., fare).14. Solve your own problems. You'll find that by coming up with your own solutions, you'll develop a competitive edge. Masura Ibuka, the co-founder of SONY, said it best: "You never succeed in technology, business, or anything by following the others." There's also an old Asian saying that I remind myself of frequently. It goes like this: "A wise man keeps his own counsel."15. Don't take yourself too seriously. Lighten up. Often, at least half of what we accomplish is due to luck. None of us are in control as much as we like to think we are. 16. There's always a reason to smile. Find it. After all, you're really lucky just to be alive. Life is short. More and more, I agree with my little brother. He always reminds me: "We're not here for a long time; we're here for a good time."

MPA Board Members and Chairpersons 2008-2009 : 

15 MPA Board Members and Chairpersons 2008-2009 President Anne H. Patterson, NCCP Johnston, Allison & Hord, P.A. 704-998-2325 apatterson@jahlaw.com First Vice President – Membership Christine N. Sigmon, NCCP Robinson, Bradshaw & Hinson(704) 377-8172   csigmon@rbh.com Second Vice President – Programs April N. Ritter, CLA, NCCP Robinson Bradshaw & Hinson 704-377-8143 ARitter@rbh.com Third Vice President – Job Bank/Website Christina J. Lee McGuire Woods, LLP (704) 373-8999 clee@mcguirewoods.com Secretary Sheila T. Etheridge-Boddie, NCCP Wishart Norris Henninger & Pittman, P.A. 704-364-0010 Sheila.etheridge@wnhplaw.com Treasurer Susan Randolph, CLA, NCCP Robinson Bradshaw & Hinson 704-377-8157 srandolph@rbh.com Student/School Liaison Micah E. DeCamp, NCCP Mayer Brown LLP (704) 444-3591 mdecamp@mayerbrown.com If you have any questions or comments concerning the MPA or its activities, please feel free to contact any one of the following MPA Board Members. Historian Janice D. Linker, CLA, NCCP Johnston, Allison &  Hord, P.A. 704 998-2238 jlinker@jahlaw.com Parliamentarian Penny H. Higdon, NCCP Robinson Bradshaw & Hinson 704-377-8173 phigdon@rbh.com NALA Liaison Alison Foster, NCCP Meineke Car Care Centers, Inc. 704-644-8132 alison.foster@meineke.com Patron ChairRoxanne CrouchBB&T Governmental Finance (704) 954-1703  rcrouch@bbandt.com   Bar LiaisonLinda KragnesJohnston, Allison & Hord (704) 998-2222 lkragnes@jahlaw.com    Audit Chair Jennie Raine, NCCP Duke Energy 704-382-0823 jmraine@duke-energy.com

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16 WE WISH TO THANK OUR 2008-2009 PATRON MEMBERS FOR ALL OF THEIR SUPPORT A. WILLIAM ROBERTS, JR. & ASSOCIATES COURT REPORTINGCONTACT: RACHEL L. ROBERTSMARKETING DIRECTOR6047 TYVOLA GLEN CIRCLECHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA 28217TELEPHONE: 704-573-3919FACSIMILE: 704-414-6777WWW.SCHEDULEDEPO.COMRROBERTS@SCHEDULEDEPO.COMCAPITOL SERVICES, INC.CONTACT: DEAN PALLASACCOUNT EXECUTIVE800 BRAZOS, SUITE 400 AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701 TELEPHONE: 800-345-4647FACSIMILE: 800-432-3622WWW.CAPITOLSERVICES.COMDPALLAS@CAPITOLSERVICES.COM CAROLINA COPY SERVICES, INC.CONTACT: OLIVER HIGHMANACCOUNT EXECUTIVE1712 EUCLID AVENUECHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA 28203TELEPHONE: 704-375-9099FACSIMILE: 704-375-8898EMAIL: OHIGHMAN@CAROLINACOPYSERVICES.COMWEB: WWW.CAROLINACOPYSERVICES.COM CHICAGO TITLE INSURANCE COMPANYCONTACT: SARAH HUTTO FUNKHOUSERASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT6921 KUCK ROADCHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA 28227TELEPHONE: 704-577-3755FACSIMILE: 704-545-6394EMAIL: SARAH.FUNKHOUSER@CTT.COMWEB: WWW.NORTHCAROLINA.CTT.COMWWW.DOCPREPONLINE.COM CHOICE TRANSLATING, INC.CONTACT: MICHELLE MENARD, PRESIDENTINTERSTATE TOWER121 WEST TRADE STREET, SUITE 2650CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA 28202TELEPHONE: 704-717-0043FACSIMILE: 704-717-0046EMAIL: LEGALTRANSLATIONS@CHOICETRANSLATING.COMWEB: WWW.CHOICETRANSLATING.COM DOCUMENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.CONTACT: DAVE KELLOGGMANAGING PARTNER201 S. TRYON STREET, SUITE LL175CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA 28202TELEPHONE: 704-342-1020FACSIMILE: 704-342-1655EMAIL: DKELLOGG@DTIGLOBAL.COMWEB: WWW.DTIGLOBAL.COM EXECUTIVE DOCUMENT SERVICES, INC.CONTACT: COLIN LERCHACCOUNT EXECUTIVE222 SOUTH CHURCH STREET, SUITE 203CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA 28202TELEPHONE: 704-334-2800FACSIMILE: 704-334-0306EMAIL: ERIC.BOYD@EXECUTIVEDOCUMENTSERVICES.COMWEB: WWW.EXECUTIVEDOCUMENTSERVICES.COM FIRST AMERICAN TITLE OF THE CAROLINASCONTACT: TRACEY BRIGECOMMERCIAL UNDERWRITERPOST OFFICE BOX 31187 CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA 28231-1187 TELEPHONE: 704-954-2419FACSIMILE: 800-669-8528EMAIL: TBRIGE@TITLEASSISTANCE.COMEMAIL: FIRSTAMERICANCHARLOTTE@TITLEASSISTANCE.COMHUSEBY, INC.CONTACT: SCOTT HUSEBY, OWNERDEBBIE LAWRENCE1230 WEST MOREHEAD STREET, SUITE 408CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA 28208TELEPHONE: 704-333-9889FACSIMILE: 704-372-4593EMAIL: SCOTTHUSEBY@HUSEBY.COMWEB: WWW.HUSEBY.COM NATIONAL CORPORATE RESEARCH, LTD.CONTACT: JEANNE CARNAHANVICE PRESIDENT, SALES615 S. DUPONT HIGHWAYDOVER, DELWARE 19901TELEPHONE: 800-483-1140FACSIMILE: 800-253-5177EMAIL: JEANNE@NATIONALCORP.COMWEB: WWW.NATIONALCORP.COM

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17 NOVA OFFICE STRATEGIES, INC.CONTACT: JASON RYANPRESIDENT129 WEST TRADE STREET, SUITE 1420CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA 28202TELEPHONE: 704-347-0055FACSIMILE: 704-347-3421EMAIL: JRYAN@NOVAOFFICE.NETWEB: WWW.NOVAOFFICE.NET R.B. PHARR & ASSOCIATES, P.A.CONTACT: CLARK NEILSONPRESIDENT420 HAWTHORNE LANECHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA 28204TELEPHONE: 704-376-2186FACSIMILE: 704-333-8724EMAIL: CNEILSON@RBPHARR.COMWEB: WWW.RBPHARR.COM SPECIAL COUNSELCONTACT: HOLLIS BAUERPLACEMENT DIRECTOR831 E. MOREHEAD STREET, SUITE 540CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA 28202TELEPHONE: 704-338-9200FACSIMILE: 704-338-1109EMAIL: HOLLIS.BAUER@SPECIALCOUNSEL.COMWEB: WWW.SPECIALCOUNSEL.COM STEWART TITLE OF THE CAROLINAS, LLCCONTACT: Z. BRENNANVICE PRESIDENT AND BUSINESS MANAGER112 S. TRYON STREET, SUITE 620CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA 28284TELEPHONE: 704-331-0438FACSIMILE: 704-332-9325EMAIL: ZBRENNAN@STEWART.COMWEB: WWW.STEWARTTITLE.COM WILLIAM IVES CONSULTING, INC.CONTACT: MARVIN MACKAYSALES & CLIENT RELATIONS320 S. TRYON STREETLATTA ARCADE, SUITE 213CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA 28202-1914TELEPHONE: 704-376-5600FACSIMILE: 704-376-0302EMAIL: MARVIN@WICUSA.COMWEB: WWW.WICUSA.COM WE WISH TO THANK OUR 2008-2009 PATRON MEMBERS FOR ALL OF THEIR SUPPORT

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18 As many of you know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Contrary to popular belief breast cancer affects women AND men. Although, it affects more women than men. Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in this country (other than skin cancer). *Each year, more than 211,000 American women learn they have this disease and 1,700 men. In 2008, 40,480 women and 450 men died from this disease. Early detection could have saved some of these lives. This disease affects all nationalities, genders, and ages; however, it is a lot more common as we age. It does not discriminate. No one knows the exact causes of breast cancer. Doctors often cannot explain why one woman develops breast cancer and another does not. They do know that bumping, bruising, or touching the breast does not cause cancer. And breast cancer is not contagious. You cannot "catch" it from another person. Research has shown that women with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop breast cancer. A risk factor is something that may increase the chance of developing a disease. Studies have found the following risk factors for breast cancer: Age: The chance of getting breast cancer goes up as a woman gets older. Most cases of breast cancer occur in women over 60. This disease is not common before menopause. Personal history of breast cancer: A woman who had breast cancer in one breast has an increased risk of getting cancer in her other breast. Family history: A woman's risk of breast cancer is higher if her mother, sister, or daughter had breast cancer. The risk is higher if her family member got breast cancer before age 40. Having other relatives with breast cancer (in either her mother's or father's family) may also increase a woman's risk. Certain breast changes: Some women have cells in the breast that look abnormal under a microscope. Having certain types of abnormal cells increases the risk of breast cancer. Gene changes: Changes in certain genes increase the risk of breast cancer. Tests can sometimes show the presence of specific gene changes in families with many women who have had breast cancer. Health care providers may suggest ways to try to reduce the risk of breast cancer, or to improve the detection of this disease in women who have these changes in their genes. BREAST CANCER AWARENESS

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19 Radiation therapy to the chest: Women who had radiation therapy to the chest (including breasts) before age 30 are at an increased risk of breast cancer. This includes women treated with radiation for Hodgkin's lymphoma. Studies show that the younger a woman was when she received radiation treatment, the higher her risk of breast cancer later in life. Breast density: Breast tissue may be dense or fatty. Older women whose mammograms show more dense tissue are at increased risk of breast cancer. Taking DES (diethylstilbestrol): DES was given to some pregnant women in the United States between about 1940 and 1971. (It is no longer given to pregnant women.) Women who took DES during pregnancy may have a slightly increased risk of breast cancer. The possible effects on their daughters are under study. Being overweight or obese after menopause: The chance of getting breast cancer after menopause is higher in women who are overweight or obese. Lack of physical activity: Women who are physically inactive throughout life may have an increased risk of breast cancer. Being active may help reduce risk by preventing weight gain and obesity. Drinking alcohol: Studies suggest that the more alcohol a woman drinks, the greater her risk of breast cancer. Many risk factors can be avoided. Others, such as family history, cannot be avoided. Women can help protect themselves by staying away from known risk factors whenever possible. It is also important to keep in mind that most women who have known risk factors do not get breast cancer. Also, most women with breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease. In fact, except for growing older, most women with breast cancer have no clear risk factors. Please help yourself by decreasing your risk factors where you can and by getting a mammogram. It’s not as bad as you might think and it could save your life. Facts taken from www.cancer.gov Reproductive and menstrual history: The older a woman is when she has her first child, the greater her chance of breast cancer. Women who had their first menstrual period before age 12 are at an increased risk of breast cancer. Women who went through menopause after age 55 are at an increased risk of breast cancer. Women who never had children are at an increased risk of breast cancer. Women who take menopausal hormone therapy with estrogen plus progestin after menopause also appear to have an increased risk of breast cancer. Large, well-designed studies have shown no link between abortion or miscarriage and breast cancer. Race: Breast cancer is diagnosed more often in white women than Latina, Asian, or African American women. BREAST CANCER AWARENESS Page 2

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20 Metrolina Paralegal Association Post Office Box 36260 Charlotte, NC 28236