Judge Lipscomb and Denny RawlinsonThe Oregon State Bar annual awards dinner was held in Portland on December 7, 2006 at the Benson Hotel. At this sold-out event, two of our Inn's members were honored by the Bar.

Marion County Circuit Court Presiding Judge Paul Lipscomb received the OSB Award of Merit. He was recognized for his outstanding leadership during the crisis that affected our courthouse last year - not only in swiftly securing other locations to continue to handle the public's business, but also in ensuring that the bar, the public, and affected stakeholders received prompt and accurate information about the situation. The Bar noted that "[h]is extraordinary response to the courthouse crisis is only the most notable in a long line of achievements." Judge Lipscomb was also recognized for his many years of service to the bench, the bar, and the community. See below for the full text.

In addition, the Bar recognized Justice Wally P. Carson with the announcement of the Wallace P. Carson, Jr. Award for Judicial Excellence. Justice Carson will be the first recipient of the award at an event in the spring, and thereafter the award will be presented annually. Justice Carson was presented with a donation to his favorite charity, Family Building Blocks, and a bouquet for his wife Gloria.

Both Judge Lipscomb and Justice Carson received standing ovations from the enthusiastic audience, which included numerous members of our Inn. In addition, the honorees were joined by their wives as well as friends and family members.

Our Inn can be proud to have two members who so epitomize the Inns of Court values of professionalism, service and integrity.

Photo courtesy of Art Thompson Photography
Photo copyright Art Thompson Photography