Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC: News

Robert Novak Featured in Article: Man With a Mission, Arizona Foothills

Robert J. Novak, a leading Member at Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, has practiced law since 1971 and has extensive experience in representing clients from all over the country. Now, the married father of one is taking on a new challenge and exciting opportunity after being named the incoming President of the Board of the Directors of The Crossroads, Inc.

Arizona Foothills
Man With a Mission
By: Sarah Love

www.AZFoothills.com

Renowned Sports Law Attorney Travis Leach Joins the Phoenix Office of Jennings, Strouss & Salmon

PHOENIX, Ariz. (January 18, 2012) – Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC, a leading Phoenix-based law firm, is pleased to announce that Travis J. Leach has joined the firm as a Member in the Phoenix office.

“Travis is a talented attorney with extensive experience in the areas of securities, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance,” states Richard Lieberman, Chair of the firm’s corporate, securities and finance department. “As a certified contract advisor by the NFL, he also brings a substantial professional sports practice, which will enhance the firm’s growing sports and entertainment group.”

Leach will focus his practice in the area of securities, including public offerings, private placements, corporate governance matters (including Sarbanes-Oxley compliance), SEC reporting obligations, and mergers and acquisitions. He will also help lead the firm's Sports and Entertainment practice. As such, he will counsel professional athletes, coaches and ownership groups in contract and licensing negotiations and a variety of other individual and collaborative business ventures. His experience supplements the firm’s ability to advise professional athletes and entertainers in all their personal and business legal matters.

“It is an honor to join such a dynamic team of attorneys and I look forward to helping the firm grow its footprint in the sports industry,” said Leach. “Jennings Strouss is a firm with creative and talented attorneys who have solid reputations for delivering great client service; characteristics that provide positive synergies with clients in the sports and entertainment industry.”

Leach is certified as a Contract Advisor by the National Football League Players’ Association and the Canadian Football Players’ Association. He earned a J.D. from University of Miami Law School and a B.S. from Arizona State University.

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon Elects Bradley V. Martorana as a New Member

PHOENIX, Ariz. (January 12, 2012) – Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based law firm, is pleased to announce that Bradley V. Martorana has been elected a Member (Partner) of the firm, effective January 1, 2012.

“Brad’s success with clients in a wide-range of industries has been impressive and we are proud to have him join us as a Member of the firm,” said Richard Lieberman, Chair of Jennings, Strouss & Salmon’s Corporate, Securities and Finance department.

Mr. Martorana focuses his practice on advising businesses and their owners in structuring, negotiating and documenting a wide range of business transactions and relationships. Mr. Martorana has previously practiced at a large firm in Baltimore, Maryland, and is a certified public accountant (CPA) with experience at a “big four” accounting firm. He has earned a B.S. in Accounting and Finance from Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business, a J.D. from The University of Maryland School of Law, and an M.B.A. from Arizona State University. Mr. Martorana is licensed in Arizona, California, Maryland and Washington, D.C.

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon Expands Phoenix Office with the Addition of Adam M. Romney

PHOENIX, Ariz. (January 10, 2012) – Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC, a leading Phoenix-based law firm, is pleased to announce that Adam M. Romney has joined the firm as a litigation associate in the Phoenix office.

“Adam’s experience in the technology and health care sectors is a great addition to our growing commercial litigation group. He is an excellent litigator with a keen grasp of highly technical issues, which gives him an advantage in serving clients in negotiations and in court,” states Frederick M. Cummings Chair of the firm’s litigation department.

Romney will focus his practice in the areas of commercial litigation, breach of contract claims, internal investigations, white collar criminal defense, and other business tort cases.

“Jennings Strouss is a top-notch firm with talented attorneys,” said Romney. “I am delighted to be a part of such a strong team of litigators and look forward to working with the firm’s impressive roster of clients.”

Romney earned a J.D. from Vanderbilt University Law School and a B.A. from Emory University.

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon Expands Phoenix Office with the Addition of Kami M. Hoskins

PHOENIX, Ariz. (November 30, 2011) - Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC, a leading Phoenix-based law firm, is pleased to announce that Kami M. Hoskins has joined the firm as a bankruptcy associate in the Phoenix office.

"Kami is an excellent addition to our commercial bankruptcy group as she brings to us experience well beyond her years of law practice. Her previous skills in business and management and with people give her an advantage in dealing with clients and in her presentations to the Bankruptcy Court," stated Carolyn J. Johnsen, Chair of the firm's Business Restructuring and Reorganization department.

Hoskins will focus her practice in the areas of bankruptcy, commercial litigation and employment law, representing corporate, small business and individual clients by implementing effective resolutions to complex legal issues. Her experience includes the representation of an international technology firm involving a complex intellectual property dispute related to Chapter 7 bankruptcy; representation of both buyers and seller in litigation matters related to real estate purchases; and the representation of a Fortune 500 corporation in defense against an EEOC charge.

"This is an outstanding opportunity," stated Hoskins. "Jennings, Strouss & Salmon is an Arizona institution, and I am thrilled to be part of the team."

Hoskins earned a J.D. from the University of Arizona, James E. Rogers College of Law, an M.A from Arizona State University, and a B.A from the University of Arizona. She serves as Chair of the State Bar of Arizona Mentor Committee and is a member of the State Bar of Arizona Committee for Minorities and Women in Law. She currently resides in Glendale, Arizona.

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon Expands Phoenix Office with the Addition of Callie N. Parkinson

PHOENIX, Ariz. (October 12, 2011) - Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC, a leading Phoenix-based law firm, is pleased to announce that Callie N. Parkinson has joined the firm as a litigation associate in the Phoenix office.

"We are fortunate to have such an enthusiastic and accomplished person as Callie come on board," stated Frederick M. Cummings, Chair of the firm's Litigation department. "I anticipate a very bright future for her at the firm."

Parkinson will focus her practice in the areas of litigation, health care, and medical and professional liability defense.

"I am thrilled to join such a well-respected law firm and have the opportunity to work with the talented and experienced attorneys at Jennings Strouss," stated Parkinson. "I look forward to contributing to the firm, being involved in the business and legal communities, and building relationships with our clients to better assist with their needs."

Prior to joining the firm, Ms. Parkinson served as Law Clerk to the Honorable Ann Scott Timmer, Chief Judge of the Arizona Court of Appeals. She earned a J.D. from Arizona State University Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law and a B.A. from Arizona State University. While in law school, Parkinson was a Pedrick Scholar, President of the Federalist Society and a member of the Sandra Day O'Connor Inns of Court. She also completed over 100 hours of pro bono work through the Juvenile Legal Assistance Program. She currently resides in Scottsdale.

26 Jennings Strouss Attorneys Recognized in the 2012 Edition of Best Lawyers in America®

PHOENIX, Ariz. (August 31, 2011) - Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC announced that 26 of the firm's attorneys have been selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America® 2012 published by Woodward/White, Inc. of Aiken, South Carolina.

The Jennings Strouss attorneys who were selected for inclusion in the 2012 edition of Best Lawyers in America^® are:

Gerald W. Alston - Arbitration, International Arbitration, Commercial Litigation, Construction Litigation, International Trade and Finance Law and Mediation
John R. Christian - Tax Law and Trusts and Estates
Frederick M. Cummings - Medical Malpractice Law, Personal Injury Litigation and Professional Malpractice Law
Richard K. Delo - Legal Malpractice Law and Medical Malpractice Law
John J. Egbert - Labor and Employment Law
Lee E. Esch - Real Estate Law
Jay A. Fradkin - Medical Malpractice Law and Personal Injury Litigation
Joel L. Greene - Energy Law
Carolyn J. Johnsen - Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights/Insolvency and Reorganization Law and Bankruptcy Litigation
Gary G. Keltner - Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights/Insolvency and Reorganization Law, Bankruptcy Litigation, and Real Estate Law
Richard L. Lassen - Trust and Estates
Stephen E. Lee - Tax Law
Richard Lieberman - Corporate Governance Law and Mergers & Acquisitions Law
Bruce B. May - Real Estate Law
Michael J. O'Connor - Commercial Litigation and Personal Injury Litigation
Russell Rea - Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law
J. Scott Rhodes - Administrative/Regulatory Law, Ethics and Professional Responsibility Law, and Legal Malpractice Law
Alan I. Robbins - Energy Law
Jack N. Rudel - Corporate Law
John G. Sestak, Jr. - Administrative/Regulatory Law, Commercial Litigation, Banking & Finance Litigation, Construction Litigation, Labor and Employment Litigation, and Real Estate Litigation
Wayne A. Smith - Real Estate Law
Brian N. Spector - Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights/Insolvency and Reorganization Law and Bankruptcy Litigation
George C. Spilsbury - Public Finance Law
Bradley J. Stevens - Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights/Insolvency and Reorganization Law
Kenneth C. Sundlof, Jr. - Energy Law
Douglas G. Zimmerman - Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law

About Best Lawyers

Since its inception in 1983, Best Lawyers has become universally regarded as the definitive guide to legal excellence. Best Lawyers is based on exhaustive peer-review surveys in which more than 25,000 leading attorneys cast 3.1 million votes on the legal abilities of other lawyers in their specialties.

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon Expands Washington, D.C. Office

PHOENIX, Ariz. (August 30, 2011) - Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC, a leading Phoenix-based law firm, is pleased to announce that Alan J. Rukin has joined the firm as an associate in the firm's Washington, D.C. office.

"We are excited to have Alan join our energy and corporate practice groups," stated Debra D. Roby, chair of the firm's energy department. "His background and enthusiasm will be a great asset to us as we continue to grow our practice. It is a pleasure to have him on our team."

As a member of the firm's Energy and Corporate, Securities and Finance departments, Rukin will utilize his engineering and legal background to enhance the services offered to clients.

"The Jennings Strouss tradition of excellence led me to join this team, along with the outstanding reputation of the attorneys who are part of the firm's national energy practice. I look forward to working alongside these professionals as we address critical issues in the traditional and alternative energy industries," stated Rukin.

Prior to attending law school, Rukin worked in the engineering operations division of a coal-fired generating station owned and operated by a rural electric cooperative. While earning his law degrees, he worked for a self regulatory organization in the securities industry and several positions within the federal government. Rukin also taught constitutional law and appellate arguments to high school students in the District of Columbia Public School System.

Rukin earned a J.D. from American University Washington College of Law, an LL.M. in Securities and Financial Regulation from Georgetown University Law Center, and a B.S. and M.E. in Civil Engineering from the University of Florida. He is admitted to practice in the District of Columbia and Florida, and is a member of the Energy Bar Association and the American Bar Association's Business Law and Environment, Energy and Resources Sections. Rukin currently resides in Arlington, VA.

Jennings Strouss Foundation Receives ICARECORPS Partnership Award

PHOENIX, Ariz. (August 23, 2011) - Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC, a leading Phoenix-based law firm, is pleased to announce that the Jennings Strouss Foundation (JS Foundation) received the ICARECORPS Partnership Award from Gateway School for the 2010-2011 school year. The award was presented at the Creighton District Recognition Awards Celebration at Creighton School in Phoenix on Wednesday, August 17^th.

"We are very grateful and appreciative for the support of the Jennings Strouss Foundation. There are so many families who benefit from the generosity of firm and its employees," stated Nancy Uxa, principal of Gateway Elementary School. "Every donation they make goes a long way in helping our students have a brighter future."

Gateway School is a primary school in the Creighton School District, serving over 850 students in grades kindergarten through 8. Gateway has a 98 percent minority enrollment, with 90 percent of the students on the free or reduced fee lunch program.

"On behalf of the JS Foundation and the employees of Jennings Strouss, I am delighted to accept this award. We are pleased to partner with Gateway Elementary School and the Creighton School District on projects that benefit the students of Gateway. Our projects have brought much satisfaction to those in association with Jennings Strouss and we hope that our efforts have aided in the school's educational goals," said Janet B. Hutchison, JS Foundation President and an attorney in the Phoenix office of Jennings, Strouss & Salmon.

The JS Foundation was established to accommodate the desire many Jennings, Strouss & Salmon employees had to give back to the community. While many contribute their own personal resources to worthy causes, they felt that the need to make a more significant impact by as group to address issues in underserved communities. This goal was achieved through the formation of the foundation, which has maximized employees' efforts and allowed the firm to express its commitment to community through social responsibility and philanthropic causes.

The current focus of the JS Foundation is to meet the educational needs of disadvantaged individuals, adults and/or children, in the communities in which the firm operates. This goal is reached through the collective efforts - whether financial, in-kind donation, or volunteer work - of Jennings, Strouss & Salmon employees, families and friends.

The JS Foundation's mission is to not only serve the immediate needs of its beneficiaries, but to also pave the way towards a better future for all.

Salt River Project Icon Richard H. Silverman Joins Jennings, Strouss & Salmon

PHOENIX, Ariz. (August 22, 2011) - Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC, a leading Phoenix-based law firm, is pleased to announce that Richard H. Silverman, former General Manager of Salt River Project (SRP), has joined the firm as Of Counsel.

"Dick's reputation and standing in Arizona and the national electric industry will enhance not only our energy practice, but our tradition of community involvement," said J. Scott Rhodes, Managing Attorney of Jennings, Strouss & Salmon.

Silverman began his career with SRP in 1966 as an attorney and, over the years, held various legal and managerial roles, including Associate General Manager of Law and Administrative Services. In 1994, Silverman was named General Manager of SRP. His many accomplishments include the 2011 President's Award, J.D. Power & Associates; 2011 Lifetime Achievement Award, the Agri-Business Council of Arizona; 2011 Lifetime Achievement Award, Most Admired Executives, Phoenix Business Journal; and the Whitney M. Young, Jr. Individual Award, Greater Phoenix Urban League.

"Having worked in the utility business my entire career, it seemed appropriate to associate with a firm enjoying a strong energy and utility practice, where knowledge and experience would be mutually beneficial," said Silverman, former general manager of Salt River Project. "For nearly seven decades, Jennings Strouss has demonstrated excellence and leadership in the legal field, and I am pleased to begin another career with such a respected firm."

Silverman is a well-recognized and respected professional in the energy industry, in Arizona and on a national level. He is past Chair of the board of directors for the Electric Power Research Institute; past Chair and former steering committee member of the Large Public Power Council; and former executive committee member of the board of directors for the American Public Power Association.

As Of Counsel at Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, Silverman will continue his active involvement with Arizona civic organizations and will also work closely with the firm's Washington, D.C.-based energy practice, which focuses on representing the business and regulatory needs of electric, natural gas, telecommunications and water utilities.

Silverman is active in a number of community organizations, including Greater Phoenix Leadership, the University of Arizona Foundation and the Translational Genomics Research Institute. He serves as Chair of the Governor's Arizona Medical Education Oversight Task Force and is a member of the Governor's Arizona Centennial Commission and Centennial Foundation.

He earned both his J.D. and B.S. in Business from the University of Arizona. Silverman currently resides in Phoenix with his wife Susan.

Jennings Strouss Client Recognized in Top 10 Civil Verdicts for 2010

Arizona Attorney magazine included Mesa Bank v. Thomas Alexander, Sandra Stevens, Bobbie Jo Johnson, American Mortgage Funding, Inc, Capital Title Agency, and American Mortgage Specialists, Inc. as one of the Top 10 Civil Verdicts of 2010. Jennings, Strouss & Salmon represented, and obtained the second highest verdict for a plaintiff in 2010 for, Mesa Bank (now Sunrise Bank of Arizona) against six defendants for a total of approximately $71.6 million in compensatory and punitive damages in connection with a fraudulent scheme to obtain real estate loans.

Jennings Strouss Client Recognized in Top 10 Civil Verdicts for 2010

Arizona Attorney magazine included Albert Pellegrini v. L.A. Fitness sports Club, L.L.C. and Brunswick Corporation as one of "Arizona's significant Defense verdicts in 2010." Jennings, Strouss & Salmon represented, and obtained a favorable decision for, Brunswick Corporation.

Robert J. Novak Named the Incoming President of the Board of Directors of The Crossroads, Inc.

PHOENIX, Ariz. (June 9, 2011) - Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC, a leading Phoenix-based law firm, announced that Robert J. Novak has been named the incoming President of the Board of Directors of The Crossroads, Inc.

Crossroads, Inc. is a non-profit charitable organization established in 1960. It provides transitional living programs for recovering adults who express a willingness and desire to learn a new way of life. Crossroads residents develop the skills and self-esteem to transition back into society as productive individuals. Crossroads has evolved a powerful, non-medical recovery discipline that significantly increases a person's chances of recovery.

"I have had the opportunity to be involved with Crossroads for several years. The help and assistance they have provided to countless individuals, their families, businesses and the community is truly amazing."

Novak is a Member at Jennings, Strouss & Salmon. He has been in practice since 1971 and has extensive experience representing clients in sophisticated financial transactions. He has represented savings & loans, banks in corporate governance, restructuring, sale, merger, and debtors and special creditor interests in large and complex bankruptcy proceedings. He also represents clients in restructuring of problem loans and real estate projects, as well as the sale, purchase and financing of all types of improved and unimproved real estate. He currently resides in Paradise Valley with his wife and son.

Fourteen Jennings Strouss Attorneys Recognized in Southwest Super Lawyers

PHOENIX, Ariz. (May 12, 2011) - Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC announced that fourteen attorneys have been named by Southwest Super Lawyers^® magazine as top attorneys in Arizona for 2011. Only five percent of the lawyers in the state are named by Super Lawyers.

Jennings Strouss attorneys who were selected for inclusion in the 2011 edition of Southwest Super Lawyers^® are:

Gerald W. Alston - Alternative Dispute Resolution, Commercial Litigation, and International Arbitration, and International Trade and Finance Law
John R. Christian - Tax Law and Trusts and Estates
Frederick M. Cummings - Medical Malpractice Law, Personal Injury Litigation and Professional Malpractice
John J. Egbert - Labor and Employment Law
Lee E. Esch - Real Estate Law
Jay A. Fradkin - Medical Malpractice/Personal Injury Litigation
Carolyn J. Johnsen - Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law
Stephen E. Lee - Tax Law
Bruce B. May - Real Estate Law
Michael J. O'Connor - Commercial Litigation and Personal Injury Litigation
Michael R. Palumbo - Alternative Dispute Resolution, Litigation and Real Estate Law
J. Scott Rhodes - Administrative Law, Ethics and Professional Responsibility Law, and Legal Malpractice Law
Jack N. Rudel - Corporate Law
Brian N. Spector - Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law

The selections for this list are made by the research team at Super Lawyers, which is a service of the Thomson Reuters Legal Division based in Eagan, MN. Each year, the research team at Super Lawyers undertakes a rigorous multi-phase selection process that includes a statewide survey of lawyers, independent evaluation of candidates by the attorney-led research staff, a peer review of candidates by practice area, and a good-standing and disciplinary check.

About Southwest Super Lawyers

Thomson Reuters Legal publishes Super Lawyers magazines across the country. In addition to the magazines, Thomson Reuters Legal publishes newspaper inserts and magazine special sections devoted to Super Lawyers. In 2011, Super Lawyers will reach more than 15 million readers. Super Lawyers was first published in 1991 by Law & Politics and was acquired by Thomson Reuters Legal in February 2010. Super Lawyers can be found online at superlawyers.com where lawyers can be searched by practice area and location.

Matthew L. Cates Appointed to Arizona Association of Defense Counsel Board of Directors

PHOENIX, Ariz. (April 1, 2011) – Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC, a leading Phoenix-based law firm, announced that Matthew L. Cates has been appointed to the Arizona Association of Defense Counsel (AADC) Board of Directors. He will serve a one year term.

“I share the Counsel’s passion for education and awareness within the legal profession,” said Cates. “I am honored to serve with highly respected attorneys who provide invaluable expertise and knowledge to the legal community.”

AADC is a non-profit organization composed of defense attorneys who practice primarily in the area of civil defense litigation. The organization is dedicated to the education of its members, and the judiciary and increasing community awareness of positive aspects of the legal profession.

Cates is a member of Jennings, Strouss & Salmon’s litigation practice, focusing on medical malpractice defense, health care law, and commercial litigation. He earned a J.D from Arizona State University Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law and a B.A in Geology from Bowdoin College. Cates is a member of the litigation sections of the State Bar of Arizona and the American Bar Association. He is also a member of the Maricopa County Bar Association and serves on the Board of Directors of WasteNot, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to alleviating hunger among needy families throughout the Valley. Cates resides in Phoenix.

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon Elects New Members

PHOENIX, Ariz. (April 1, 2011) - Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based law firm, is pleased to announce that Terence N. Cushing, Eric D. Gere, Stephanie E. Hart, Nancy C. Pohl, Todd B. Tuggle and Eric S. West, and have been elected Members (Partners) of the firm, effective January 1, 2011.

Cushing focuses his practice on civil litigation matters, including product liability, commercial litigation, real estate, personal injury, and insurance matters. He is experienced in all phases of the litigation process, including arbitration, mediation, motion practice, oral argument, discovery, and trial preparation. He is admitted to practice in Arizona, Nevada, the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona, and the U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada.

Gere's practice is focused on general, commercial, real estate, and construction litigation. He has represented a variety of individuals and corporations in matters involving complex business and real estate transactions, landlord/tenant, breach of contract, construction disputes, personal injury, and property tax appeals. He is admitted to practice in Arizona, the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona, and the U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit.

Hart focuses her practice on general, commercial, energy, banking and employment litigation.
She is experienced in all phases of the litigation process, including arbitration, mediation, motion practice, oral argument, discovery and trial preparation. She earned a J.D. from Columbia University School of Law and a B.A. from Arizona State University. Prior to entering private practice, she clerked for Judge Constance Baker Motley of the United States Southern District of New York, and Judge Ferdinand F. Fernandez of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. She is admitted to practice in State and Federal Courts in New York and California in addition to the Arizona State Courts, the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona and the U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit.

Pohl's practice is focused in the areas of tax and trust and estate matters, with an emphasis on estate and gift taxation, income taxation and estate planning. Her practice also includes non-profit organizations and corporate and partnership taxation. Ms. Pohl additionally represents taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service and the Arizona Department of Revenue. Pohl is admitted to practice in Arizona, New York, and the U.S. Tax Court and is a member of Central Arizona Estate Planning Council.

Tuggle practices in the areas of commercial litigation, bankruptcy, creditor and debtors' rights and business reorganization. He is experienced in all phases of the litigation process, including arbitration, mediation, motion practice, oral argument, discovery, and trial preparation. Tuggle earned a J.D. from Brigham Young University, J. Reuben Clark Law School, and a both a B.A. and B.S. from Brigham Young University. He is a member of the American Bankruptcy Institute and is admitted to practice in Arizona, Nevada, the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona, and the U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada.

West's practice is in the areas of real estate and commercial transactions. His experience includes representing developers, lenders and investors with the acquisition, financing, development, construction, leasing and disposition of real estate projects. He earned a J.D. from Stanford Law School, an M.S. from Stanford University, and a B.S. from the University of Arizona. He is admitted to practice in Arizona and California.

Video: Harriet Babbitt Speaks to Secretary Otero About Global Water Issues

Secretery Otero speaks about global water issues with Harriet Babbitt, Co-Chair Global Water Challenge. View video: http://bcove.me/htsu08aj.

Richard C. Smith Elected to Arizona Tax Research Association Board of Directors

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based law firm, announced that Richard C. Smith has been elected to the Board of Directors of the Arizona Tax Research Association (ATRA). Smith, a Member in the firm's Phoenix Tax, Estate Planning and Probate practice, will serve a five-year term, commencing January 1, 2011.

ATRA is a statewide, non-profit, non-partisan taxpayer association representing a cross section of Arizona businesses and individuals at the state and local level. Since 1940, the association has been Arizona's most respected and accurate independent source of public finance and tax information.
"I am honored to serve on the Board of the Arizona Tax Research Association," said Smith. "ATRA plays an important role in policing the state's expenditures to ensure taxpayer money is spent wisely. With a state deficit reported to be around $2 billion, we advocate the need to curb spending and align Arizona's corporate and personal income tax rates with other Southwestern states to increase jobs and commerce."

Smith represents clients in the areas of tax, estate planning, estate and trust administration, and corporate law. His focus is on counseling high net worth individuals, families and closely-held business organizations on business, tax, succession and asset protection planning, including merger and acquisition transactions. Smith also has a wide-range of experience in all facets of employee benefits, compensation and ERISA matters, including the design, implementation and operation of retirement plans, non-qualified deferred compensation, executive compensation, profit sharing, and incentive stock option plans. His extensive experience includes the administration of various types of 501(c)(3) filings.

Smith earned his J.D. from Syracuse University College of Law and a B.A. from Queens College of the City, University of New York. He is listed as a "Top Lawyer" for tax and trusts and estates by Arizona Business Magazine, and has written numerous articles on a variety of issues related to tax, estate planning and probate. Smith is licensed as an Arizona certified public accountant and currently resides in Phoenix.

Carolyn Johnsen Selected as Top Lawyer for 2011 DirectWomen Board Institute

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC, a leading Phoenix-based law firm, is pleased to announce that Carolyn Johnsen, a Member in the firm's Phoenix office, has been selected as a member of the 2011 DirectWomen Board Institute.

The DirectWomen Board Institute is a program designed to identify and promote qualified women lawyers to serve on corporate boards of public companies. The 2011 DirectWomen Class is composed of 24 accomplished women lawyers selected from candidates throughout the country. The Class includes general counsel of Fortune 500 companies, partners at top law firms, highly respected consultants, and representatives of large non-profit organizations.

Johnsen is the Chair of Jennings Strouss' Business Restructuring & Reorganization Section. Her law practice encompasses every aspect of commercial reorganizations and she has successfully represented both debtors and creditors in developing and confirming multiple and complex Chapter 11 plans for clients in a multitude of industries including real estate, manufacturing, refining, and hospitality. For the past three years, Johnsen has been named as one of the Best Lawyers in America for Bankruptcy and Creditor Rights, and as one of the top 50 Southwest Super Lawyers. Last year, she was a finalist for the Arizona Woman of the Year and received the Distinguished Achievement Award from Arizona State University Law School for her work in honoring Justice Sandra Day O'Connor.

"I am overwhelmed and honored to participate in the Institute with such a prestigious group of senior women lawyers. The Institute offers a unique opportunity for training and interaction with the goal being to position women for service on boards of major corporations. This is such an important step in advancing the efforts of women," said Johnsen.

About the DirectWomen Board Institute
Held this year February 9-11, 2011 in New York City, the DirectWomen Board Institute is an annual two-day program providing an orientation and update on key issues facing current and future directors. The goal is to position an elite group of exceptional senior women lawyers for service as directors of major U.S. corporations.

Approximately 20 women attorneys are selected each year to attend the DirectWomen Board Institute. The Institute faculty features leading experts on corporate governance and experienced directors. The program covers topics including the role and work of nominating and corporate governance committees, the evolving nature of shareholder relations, the strategic role of audit committees and the role of executive search firms in board searches. In addition, the Institute affords participants the opportunity to network with DirectWomen alumnae and honorees as well as top representatives of executive search firms.

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon
Jennings Strouss is one of the Southwest's leading law firms, providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix, and Peoria, Arizona, Washington, DC, and Las Vegas, Nevada. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate, and technology. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2704.

Jennings Strouss & Salmon Selected as one of the "2010 Best Places to Work"

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based corporate law firm, is pleased to announce that it has been named to The Phoenix Business Journal's, "2010 Best Places to Work" list in the medium-sized business category (under 500 employees). This is the fourth year in a row that the firm has been selected as a "Best Place to Work."

The "Best Places to Work" list, which was started in 2003, recognizes Valley companies who, through a third party administered employee survey, rank their respective companies as being the best places to work. The areas surveyed are varied parts of employee life, including workplace environment, leadership direction, culture, and management practices. Jennings Strouss & Salmon was acknowledged for creating an enjoyable corporate culture and work environment that fosters personal and professional growth for its employees.

"We are excited to rank 6^th on the ‘Best Places to Work' list this year," said J. Scott Rhodes, Managing Attorney. "Making the list is truly an honor that undoubtedly provides all of our employees with a sense of pride."

Winners were announced at the "Best Places to Work" Luncheon, held December 2^nd at the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa.

About Jennings Strouss & Salmon
Jennings Strouss has been providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix and Peoria, Arizona, Las Vegas, Nevada and Washington, D.C. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate, and technology. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2704.

Scott Rhodes Selected as Best Lawyers Phoenix Administrative Lawyer of the Year for 2011

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC, a leading Phoenix-based law firm, is pleased to announce that Scott Rhodes, the firm's Managing Attorney, has been selected as the Best Lawyers Phoenix Administrative Lawyer of the Year for 2011.

Best Lawyers has designated "Lawyers of the Year" in high-profile legal specialties in large legal communities. Only a single lawyer in each specialty in each community is being honored as the "Lawyer of the Year."

Rhodes, a Phoenix resident, focuses his practice on legal ethics and the law of lawyering, including attorneys' fees disputes, energy and utilities law, local government law, and professional corporate governance and structure. Mr. Rhodes has an extensive background in legal ethics and is a published writer on the topic. Because of Mr. Rhodes' reputation and capabilities as a professional responsibility lawyer, Jennings Strouss & Salmon ranked #1 in the US in Ethics and Professional Responsibility Law by The Best Lawyers in America® 2010.

"I am honored to be a recipient of the Best Lawyers Phoenix Administrative Lawyer of the Year Award," said Scott Rhodes. "It is always gratifying to be recognized for my work and for the contributions that I strive to make in my profession."

About Best Lawyers
Best Lawyers compiles its lists of outstanding attorneys by conducting exhaustive peer-review surveys in which thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate their professional peers.

The lawyers being honored as "Lawyers of the Year" have received particularly high ratings in the surveys by earning a high level of respect among their peers for their abilities, professionalism, and integrity.

Steven Naifeh, President of Best Lawyers, says, "We continue to believe - as we have believed for more than 25 years - that recognition by one's peers is the most meaningful form of praise in the legal profession. We would like to congratulate Scott Rhodes on being selected as the Best Lawyers Phoenix Administrative Lawyer of the Year for 2011."

Steven W. Smitham Joins Jennings Strouss as New Chief Operating Officer

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC, a leading Phoenix-based law firm focused on a variety of practices for business and individual clients, is pleased to announce that Steven W. Smitham, a top law firm administrator, has re-joined the firm as Chief Operating Officer. Smitham, who previously served as Jennings Strouss' Executive Director is returning to the firm after four years of work as the Chief Operating Officer of Chicago-based law firm Butler Rubin Saltarelli & Boyd LLP.

"It is an incredible asset for Jennings Strouss to have someone with this level of experience running our internal operations. Steve has a comprehensive outlook and a substantial history of success within the law firm management arena," said J. Scott Rhodes, Managing Attorney. "We're overjoyed to welcome Steve back into the Jennings Strouss fold and we look forward to his contributions to the firm."

A highly skilled professional and former Certified Public Accountant, Steve has more than 30 years of management experience. Prior to his initial tenure with Jennings Strouss, he was Executive Director at another large Phoenix-based law firm. Steve also served as a Vice President with Bowne Business Solutions and dramatically grew its Arizona business.

"Jennings Strouss has an unsurpassed reputation as a client-focused firm," said Steve Smitham. "I look forward to contributing to the growth of the firm as well as continuing to develop the firm's position as a leader in the mid-sized law firm community."

As Chief Operating Officer, Smitham is responsible for the management and oversight of day-to-day operations, and for the development and implementation of various strategic initiatives. Smitham's responsibilities draw on his expertise in maximizing revenue, controlling expenses, and developing and sustaining an exciting and engaging work environment.

Smitham earned his B.S. in Education from Western Illinois University in 1971, taking post-graduate accounting coursework at both the University of Illinois - Chicago and DePaul University.

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon
Jennings Strouss is one of the Southwest's leading law firms, providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix and Peoria, Arizona, Washington, DC, and Las Vegas, Nevada. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate, and technology. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2704.

Three Jennings Strouss Alumni to be inducted to the 2010 Maricopa County Bar Association Hall of Fame

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC, a leading Phoenix-based law firm focused on a variety of practices for business and individual clients, is pleased to announce that three Jennings Strouss Alumni will be inducted into the 2010 Maricopa County Bar Hall of Fame. Congratulations to Senator Jon Kyl, Philip A. Robbins and Gary L. Stuart!

The Maricopa County Bar created the Hall of Fame in 2008 to recognize and thank these true giants of the legal profession. This year, fourteen extraordinary lawyers and judges will be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Each of these individuals has played a prominent and important role that has had an impact on the history and development of our local bar and the legal profession. They have made unique contributions to the administration of justice and have demonstrated significant leadership, advocacy and accomplishments in service to the community.

Honorees will be presented their awards and make brief remarks at the MCBA Annual Meeting and Hall of Fame Induction Luncheon taking place on Wednesday, October 20^th, at the Downtown Hyatt Regency.

2010 Hall Of Fame Inductees:
Jerry L. Angle
Peter D. Baird*
Jose A. Cardenas
Daniel F. Cracchiolo
Hon. Walter E. Craig*
Hon. William P. French
Hon. Frank X. Gordon
Curtis A. Jennings
Senator Jon Kyl
Joseph E. McGarry
Patrick J. McGroder III
Philip A. Robbins
Hon. Mary Murphy Schroeder
Gary L. Stuart

*Deceased

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Jennings Strouss & Salmon Selected For 2010 Best Law Firms in America

Jennings Strouss has been selected for inclusion in the inaugural publication of Best Law Firms in America® 2010 published by U.S. News and Woodward/White, Inc. of Aiken, South Carolina. Best Lawyers has partnered with U.S. News & World Report, to establish the U.S. News - Best Lawyers "Best Law Firm" rankings.

These inaugural listings are presented in tiers and are ranked both nationally and by metropolitan area. The rankings showcase 8,782 different law firms ranked in one or more of 81 major practice areas. Listed firms include the largest firms in the country as well as hundreds of one-person and two-person law firms. Achieving a high ranking is a special distinction that signals a unique combination of excellence and breadth of expertise.

The methodology for the U.S. News - Best Lawyers "Best Law Firms" rankings involved surveying thousands of law firm clients; leading lawyers and law firm managers; partners and associates; and marketing officers and recruiting officers. Each were asked what factors they considered vital for clients hiring law firms, for lawyers choosing a firm to refer a legal matter to, and for lawyers seeking employment.

Jennings Strouss was selected in the following practice areas for inclusion in Tier 1 of the Metropolitan Rakings:

Phoenix:
Administrative / Regulatory Law
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law
Biotechnology Law
Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law
General Commercial Litigation
International Arbitration
Legal Malpractice Law - Defendants
Medical Malpractice Law - Defendants
Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants
Real Estate Law
Tax Law
Technology Law

Jennings Strouss Welcomes Attorney William A. Clarke

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based law firm focused on a variety of practices for business and individual clients, is pleased to announce today that William A. Clarke has joined the firm as a Member in the firm's Phoenix office.

Clarke, a Phoenix resident, will practice in the Corporate & Business; Estate Planning & Probate; and Tax Departments. Mr. Clarke is a veteran practitioner having provided counsel to international, national, and local businesses and individual clients for more than thirty years. Mr. Clarke has worked with numerous Arizona business families in estate planning, general business matters including business succession planning, corporate transactions, and real estate transactions.

Additionally, Mr. Clarke has represented clients in contested probate matters. He has represented surviving spouses and heirs in estate disputes with family members over the allocation of assets.

Mr. Clarke obtained his J.D. from the University of Arizona, James E. Rogers College of Law, (1980) and his B.S. from the University of Kansas in Business Administration and Accounting, (1977).

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon
Jennings Strouss is one of the Southwest's leading law firms, providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix and Peoria, Arizona, Washington, D.C., and Las Vegas, Nevada. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate, and technology. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2704.

Jennings Strouss Selected for Alfred P. Sloan Honorable Mention Award

Jennings Strouss & Salmon is honored to announce that it has been selected as Honorable Mention for the Alfred P. Sloan Business Excellence in Workplace Flexibility Award for 2010.

About the Alfred P. Sloan Awards
The Alfred P. Sloan Awards for Business Excellence in Workplace Flexibility recognize employers of all types and sizes that are using workplace flexibility as a tool to enhance business and employee success.

The Awards are unique for their rigorous criteria. To win, applicants must rank in the top 20% of U.S. employers in terms of their programs and practices for creating effective and flexible workplaces, based on nationally representative data from the Families and Work Institute. Additionally, two thirds of the overall score is derived from a confidential employee survey, ensuring that these programs and practices are having a real impact where the "rubber meets the road," with individual employee experiences.

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon
Jennings Strouss is one of the Southwest's leading law firms, providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix, and Peoria, Arizona, Washington, DC., and Las Vegas, Nevada. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate, and technology. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2704.

29 Jennings Strouss Attorneys Named 2011 Best Lawyers in America

Jennings Strouss & Salmon is pleased to announce that 29 of the firm's lawyers, more than half of the firm's equity members, have been selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America® 2011 published by Woodward/White, Inc. of Aiken, South Carolina.

The two lawyers new to this year's list are: Richard K. Delo [Legal Malpractice Law and Medical Malpractice Law] and Russell R. Rea [Eminent Domain Law].

Jennings Strouss attorneys who were selected for inclusion in the 2011 Best Lawyers in America® Edition are:

Phoenix: Gerald W. Alston [Alternative Dispute Resolution/Commercial Litigation/ International Arbitration/International Trade and Finance Law], John R. Christian [Tax Law/Trusts and Estates], Frederick M. Cummings [Medical Malpractice Law/Personal Injury Litigation/Professional Malpractice], Richard K. Delo [Legal Malpractice Law/Medical Malpractice Law], John J. Egbert [Labor and Employment Law], George M. Esahak-Gage [ Real Estate Law], Lee E. Esch [Real Estate Law], Jay A. Fradkin [Medical Malpractice/Personal Injury Litigation], Douglas Gerlach [Antitrust Law/Commercial Litigation], Carolyn J. Johnsen [Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law], Gary G. Keltner [Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law/Real Estate Law], Richard L. Lassen [Trusts and Estates], Stephen E. Lee [Tax Law], Richard Lieberman [Corporate Governance and Compliance Law/Mergers & Acquisitions Law/Securities Law], Bruce B. May [Real Estate Law], Michael J. O'Connor [Commercial Litigation/Personal Injury Litigation], Russell R. Rea [Eminent Domain Law], J. Scott Rhodes [Administrative Law/ Ethics and Professional Responsibility Law/Legal Malpractice Law], Jack N. Rudel [Corporate Law], John G. Sestak, Jr. [Administrative Law/Commercial Litigation], Wayne A. Smith [Real Estate Law], Brian N. Spector [Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law], George C. Spilsbury [Public Finance Law], Bradley J. Stevens [Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law], Kenneth C. Sundlof, Jr. [Energy Law], John C. West [Commercial Litigation/Health Care Law] and Douglas G. Zimmerman [Eminent Domain Law].

Washington D.C.: Alan I. Robbins [Energy Law] and Joel L. Greene [Energy Law].

About Best Lawyers in America
For more than two decades, Best Lawyers has been regarded-by both the legal profession and the public-as the definitive guide to legal excellence in the United States. Lawyers are chosen for inclusion based solely on a vote of their peers. Listings cannot be bought, and no purchase is required to be included. In this regard, Best Lawyers remains the gold standard of reliability and integrity in lawyer ratings. To ensure the continued rigor of the selection process, they urged lawyers to use only their highest standards when voting, and to evaluate each attorney based only on his or her individual merits.

Frederick M. Cummings Elected to the Arizona Zoological Society Board of Directors

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based law firm, is pleased to announce that Frederick M. Cummings, a Member in the firm's Phoenix office, has been elected to the Board of Directors of the Arizona Zoological Society. Mr. Cummings will serve on the board for a three-year term.

The Arizona Zoological Society is a not for profit corporation founded in 1961. The members of the Board are committed to furthering the mission of the Society to further the conservation of wildlife and habitat and to operate the Phoenix Zoo as a world class zoological garden.

Cummings, an Arcadia resident, is Chair of the firm's Litigation practice group. He has extensive trial experience in the areas of health care, medical malpractice and medical products liability defense litigation. He also has significant experience in all aspects of complex commercial litigation and is an experienced arbitrator and mediator.

"I am thrilled to have the opportunity to serve such an outstanding organization," said Fred Cummings. "I am committed to furthering the Society's mission and to help see the Zoo maintain its standing as an ambassador which protects and preserves our natural world through education about wildlife."

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon
Jennings Strouss is one of the Southwest's leading law firms, providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix, and Peoria, Arizona, Washington, D.C., and Las Vegas, Nevada. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate and business restructuring. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2806.

About the Phoenix Zoo
The Phoenix Zoo is a non-profit zoological park that serves 1.5 million guests annually. Home to more than 1, 300 animals and many endangered and threatened species, the Zoo is dedicated to providing experiences that inspire people and motivate them to care for the natural world. More information at www.phoenixzoo.org.

Jennings Strouss moves Phoenix office to CityScape

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC, a leading Phoenix-based law firm focused on a variety of practices for corporate and individual clients, is pleased to announce that it has moved its Phoenix office to the much-anticipated CityScape project. The firm occupies approximately 56,000 square feet on two and a quarter floors of the mixed-use project's Class A office tower, located in the heart of Downtown Phoenix.

"We have been eagerly anticipating our move to CityScape and are excited to be part of this project," said Scott Rhodes, Managing Attorney. "The new space has great amenities for our clients and is close to courthouses and downtown sporting venues, which makes it a very attractive location."

CityScape provides the focal point for urban living and community activity, connecting the dynamic people, places and events of metropolitan Phoenix. The tenant mix is comprised of both local and national influential businesses, restaurants and retailers.

Jennings Strouss is consistently ranked among the top law firms in Arizona. Since the firm was founded in 1942, the firm has occupied office space in downtown Phoenix and been deeply rooted in the Phoenix business community. The firm's attorneys have been instrumental in helping shape the dynamic growth of Arizona and many of its institutions.

Contact information for the Phoenix office is:

One East Washington Street
Suite 1900
Phoenix, AZ 85004-2554
P: 602.262.5911

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon
Jennings Strouss has been providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix, and Peoria, Arizona, Washington D.C., and Las Vegas, Nevada. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate, and business restructuring. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2806.

AboutCityScape
CityScape is a 1.8 million square food mixed-use urban project located at the very center of Downtown Phoenix. The combination of commercial, retail, residential and hotel development is a focal point for urban living and community activity in a revitalized downtown Phoenix, nestles between the city's entertainment, education, business and government institutions. www.CityScapePhx.com.

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J. Scott Rhodes Selected as 2010 Member of the Year by the State Bar of Arizona

PHOENIX, Ariz. (June 8, 2010) - Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based law firm, is pleased to announce that J. Scott Rhodes, the firm's Managing Attorney, has been selected as the 2010 Member of the Year by the Board of Governors of the State Bar of Arizona.

The Member of the Year Award recognizes an attorney who has rendered extraordinary contributions to the programs and activities of the State Bar of Arizona in the prior year. Thousands of Bar members contribute their time and talent to the work of the Bar; this award is limited to those whose contributions are exceptional. Rhodes is a co-recipient of the award this year with Jeffrey Messing of Poli & Ball, PLC.

Rhodes, a Mesa resident, focuses his practice on legal ethics and the law of lawyering, including attorneys' fees disputes, energy and utilities law, local government law, and professional corporate governance and structure. Mr. Rhodes has an extensive background in legal ethics and is a published writer on the topic. Because of Mr. Rhodes' reputation and capabilities as a professional responsibility lawyer, Jennings Strouss & Salmon is ranked #1 in the US in Ethics and Professional Responsibility Law by The Best Lawyers in America® 2010.

The award will be presented at the Arizona State Bar Convention Annual Luncheon on Friday, June 11, 2010 at the Renaissance Glendale Hotel & Spa in Glendale, Arizona.

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon
Jennings Strouss is one of the Southwest's leading law firms, providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix, and Peoria, Arizona, Washington, DC., and Las Vegas, Nevada. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate, and technology. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2806.

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Scott Rhodes elected to Arizona State University Alumni Association Board of Directors

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based law firm, is pleased to announce that J. Scott Rhodes, has been elected to the Board of Directors of the Arizona State University (ASU) Alumni Association. He will serve as a Board Member for two, three-year terms.

The ASU Alumni Association Board of Directors is the University's longest running support group. The Association exists to serve ASU and to keep alumni and friends of ASU involved with the University. It has more than 50 alumni chapters and clubs across America.

Rhodes, a Mesa resident, focuses his practice on legal ethics and the law of lawyering, including attorneys' fees disputes, energy and utilities law, local government law, and professional corporate governance and structure. Mr. Rhodes has an extensive background in legal ethics and is a published writer on the topic. Because of Mr. Rhodes' reputation and capabilities as a professional responsibility lawyer, Jennings Strouss & Salmon is ranked #1 in the U.S. in Ethics and Professional Responsibility Law by The Best Lawyers in America® 2010.

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon
Jennings Strouss is one of the Southwest's leading law firms, providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix, and Peoria, Arizona, Washington, DC., and Las Vegas, Nevada. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate, and technology. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2806.

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Kenneth C. Sundlof, Jr. Elected to the Herberger Theater Center Board of Directors

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based law firm, is pleased to announce that Kenneth C. Sundlof, Jr., a Member in the firm's Phoenix office, has been elected to the Board of Directors of the Herberger Theater Center. Mr. Sundlof will serve on the board for a three-year term.

The Herberger Theater Center is one of Downtown Phoenix's premier performance venues and serves as an arts incubator and arts advocate. It is home to three resident companies: Actors Theatre, Arizona Theatre Company and Center Dance Ensemble. It also sponsors an Arizona Young Artists' Competition, Wolf Trap, and collaborate with the Arizona Opera School Tour as well as partners with Free Arts Multicultural Theater Camp.

Sundlof, an Arcadia resident, is Chair of the firm's Energy practice group. His primary focus is in the area of utility law and he has more than thirty years of extensive experience in the utility industry. Since 1998, Mr. Sundlof has served as the liaison between Salt River Project (SRP), one of the largest public power entities in the nation, and Jennings Strouss & Salmon. In addition, Mr. Sundlof's representation encompasses both litigation and non-litigation matters, including business negotiations, contracts, procurement, licensing, real estate, banking, construction and insurance.

"I am pleased to have the opportunity to serve on the board of the Herberger Theater Center," said Ken Sundlof. "I have long supported the arts community here in the Valley and look forward to continuing that commitment with the Herberger Theater."

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon
Jennings Strouss is one of the Southwest's leading law firms, providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix, and Peoria, Arizona, Washington, DC., and Las Vegas, Nevada. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate, and technology. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2806.

Jennings Strouss Foundation partners with Gateway Elementary for ‘Branch Into Reading’ book drive

The Jennings Strouss Foundation recently concluded its Branch into Reading Book Drive for Gateway Elementary School in the Creighton School District. The drive ran during the months of February, March and April and garnered more than $500 in financial donations and more than 100 books for the first grade class and the school's library.

The drive focused on providing books to the school to assist in the development of reading skills for first grade students as well as reading opportunities for all students. Gateway Elementary is strongly committed to increasing student achievement in reading, including English language learners, through the core reading program.

For the first component of the project, the Foundation selected a first grade class. The class is a low language class and is currently involved in a pilot program to train parents how to work with their student at home. The Foundation provided copies of three separate books selected by the teacher. The teacher reads the book with the class and each student gets a copy of the book. The student can gain reading proficiency with the book and then take it home to read to the family.

The second component of the project allowed Jennings Strouss employees the opportunity to purchase books for the school library from the "wish list" provided by the librarian.

About the Jennings Strouss Foundation
The mission of the Jennings Strouss Foundation is to meet the educational needs of disadvantaged individuals, adult and/or children, in the communities in which the firm operates. This goal is reached through the collective efforts, whether financial, in-kind donation, or volunteer work, of the employees of Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., their families, and their friends. For additional information and other projects please visit jsslaw.com/jss_foundation.aspx or call 602.495.2806.

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Sixteen Attorneys Named Southwest Super Lawyers

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based law firm focused on a variety of practices for corporate clients, is pleased to announce that sixteen (16) Members (Partners) were named as 2010 Southwest Super Lawyers by the publishers of Law & Politics.

Jennings Strouss lawyers listed in the 2010 edition include: Gerald "Buzz" Alston (Business Litigation), John Christian (Tax), Fred Cummings (Medical Malpractice Defense), John Egbert (Employment & Labor), Lee Esch (Real Estate), Jay Fradkin (Medical Malpractice Defense), Douglas Gerlach (Business Litigation), Carolyn Johnsen (Bankruptcy & Creditor's Rights), Stephen Lee (Tax), Bruce May (Real Estate), Michael O'Connor (Business Litigation), Michael Palumbo (Business Litigation), Jack Rudel (Tax), Brian Spector (Bankruptcy &Creditor/Debtor Rights), Bradley Stevens (Bankruptcy &Creditor/Debtor Rights) and John C. West (Health Care).

Super Lawyers was first published in 1991 and can be found in more than 30 states. Super Lawyers is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey in which 18,000 ballots are sent to active lawyers in Arizona and New Mexico. Law & Politics' research department examined and evaluated the background and experience of the candidates and made final selections based on firm size, highest point totals in each category. Only 5 percent of the total lawyers in Arizona are listed in Super Lawyers. Lawyers are not required or allowed to pay a fee to be listed in the publication.

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon
Jennings Strouss is one of the Southwest's leading law firms, providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix, and Peoria, Arizona, Washington, DC., and Las Vegas, Nevada. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate, and technology. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2806.

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Jennings Strouss Selected to Receive Volunteer Lawyer Program Service Award

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon is pleased to announce that they are co-recipient of this year's William T. Birmingham Clinic Service Award for its participation in the St. Vincent de Paul legal advice clinic. They share the award with Gallagher & Kennedy, P.A.

The award was given by the Volunteer Lawyer Program, a joint project of the Maricopa County Bar Association and Community Legal Services which serves to join those in need with volunteer attorneys whose generous counsel gives thousands of Arizonans new hope for a better life.

"I am honored to be accepting the William T. Birmingham Clinic Service Award on behalf of the firm," said Michael Palumbo. "Many of our attorneys enjoy providing legal services to those in need in our community and it is an honor to be recognized for our contributions."

Michael Palumbo of Jennings Strouss and Mark M. Deatherage and James B. Connor from Gallagher & Kennedy will be accepting the award from Chief Justice Rebecca White Berch on Thursday, April 22 at the Hyatt Regency Phoenix.

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon

Jennings Strouss is one of the Southwest's leading law firms, providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix, and Peoria, Arizona, Washington, DC., and Las Vegas, Nevada. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate, and technology. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2806.

Jennings Strouss & Salmon Expands in Washington, D.C., Moves Offices to Accommodate Expected Growth

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Arizona-based law firm focused on a variety of practices for corporate clients, is pleased to announce the firm has a new address in Washington, D.C. Effective January 1, 2010, the Washington, D.C. branch of Jennings Strouss is located at 1350 I Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20005-3305. The new office space coincides with plans to expand the firm's energy practice group.

"The opportunity to move to a new space in D.C. is integral to meeting the needs of our growing client base as well as expanding the firm's presence in the energy industry," said Alan Robbins, Member of the firm's D.C. energy group. "We recognize the importance of expanding our presence in the energy and renewable energy markets and were fortunate to find attractive space that will allow our practice to continue to grow and flourish."

About the Energy Industry Group of Jennings, Strouss & Salmon

Jennings Strouss' Washington, D.C. office is the hub for the firm's talented energy and utility lawyers. They bring more than 100 years of combined experience in energy industries to various large-scale electric power and natural gas clients across the nation. This includes experience in the dynamic field of renewable energy.

Jennings Strouss has a rich history of representing the business needs of electric, hydroelectric, natural gas, water, telecommunication utilities, and large end-users of electric power and natural gas. The firm provides a rare combination of a Washington D.C.-based energy practice, focused industry expertise, broad experience in state and local regulatory and legislative issues, and the capability to handle the business needs of its energy and utility clients. Among its non-utility energy clients, Jennings Strouss currently represents one of the largest U.S. manufacturers of natural gas distribution pipe couplings before FERC, the U.S. Department of Transportation and state commissions. The firm is also active in the district heating and cooling industry, acting as general counsel to its nearly 1,000 member international trade association.

"Jennings Strouss is very excited for the opportunity to expand the Washington D.C. office and the energy practice which is based there," said Scott Rhodes, Jennings Strouss' Managing Partner. "We are very much looking forward to the continued growth of our energy practice and this move facilitates that growth."

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon

Jennings Strouss is one of the Southwest's leading law firms, providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix and Peoria, Arizona, Washington, D.C., and Las Vegas, Nevada. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate, and technology. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2704.

Jennings Strouss Selected as one of the "2009 Best Places to Work"

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based corporate law firm, is pleased to announce that it has been named to The Phoenix Business Journal and BestCompaniesAZ, "2009 Best Places to Work" list in the medium-sized business category (under 500 employees). This is the third year in a row that the firm has been selected as a "Best Place to Work."

The "Best Places to Work" list, which was started in 2003, recognizes Valley companies who, through a third party administered employee survey, rank their respective companies as being the best places to work. The areas surveyed are varied parts of employee life, including workplace environment, leadership direction, culture, and management practices. Jennings Strouss & Salmon was acknowledged for creating an enjoyable corporate culture and work environment that fosters personal and professional growth for its employees.

"We are excited to rank #12 on the 'Best Places to Work' in the Valley list this year," said J. Scott Rhodes, Managing Attorney. "Making the list is truly an honor that undoubtedly provides all of our employees with a sense of pride."

Winners were announced at the "Best Places to Work" Luncheon, held December 10th at the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa. The event drew a crowd of more than 900 people with 124 companies announced as winners in various categories.

About Jennings Strouss & Salmon

Jennings Strouss has been providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix and Peoria, Arizona, Las Vegas, Nevada and in Washington, D.C. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate, and technology. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2704.

Jennings Strouss Elects J. Scott Rhodes as Managing Attorney

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based corporate law firm, is pleased to announce that J. Scott Rhodes has been elected Managing Attorney. Rhodes replaces John C. West, who stepped down from the position after seven years to focus on his burgeoning health care law practice.

Rhodes will oversee the operations of the firm and will focus on maintaining the firm's tradition of providing the highest caliber of legal services, while positioning the firm for a prominent role in a changing legal environment. Rhodes has been a lawyer with Jennings Strouss & Salmon since 1995 and has held several important individual and committee positions, most recently as General Counsel to the firm.

Rhodes is a legal ethics lawyer whose reputation and capabilities are well known throughout the Valley and State. His practice earned Jennings Strouss & Salmon a #1 ranking in the U.S. in Ethics and Professional Responsibility Law by The Best Lawyers in America® 2010. He chairs the Rules of Professional Conduct Committee of the State Bar of Arizona, and was appointed by the Arizona Supreme Court to serve as a Member and Respondent's Counsel Representative of its Attorney Discipline Task Force. He also serves on the Mesa Judicial Advisory Board.

"It is a tremendous benefit to Jennings Strouss to have someone with Scott's reputation and level of experience as Managing Attorney. Scott has excellent insight and a long tenure of success," said John C. West, former Managing Attorney. "I am delighted to pass the reins to him and look forward to his contributions to the firm."

Rhodes has served Arizona and the Valley as a volunteer for many non-profit organizations, such as Arizona Town Hall, and commitment to service is a Rhodes family tradition. Scott is the youngest child of John J. Rhodes, who represented Arizona in Congress for 30 years and was the Minority Leader of the U.S. House of Representatives. Rhodes' brother, John J. Rhodes III, also served in Congress. His mother, Betty Rhodes, was the recipient of this year's Unsung Hero award by the Capitol Times.

"Jennings Strouss has always had an excellent reputation for providing exceptional service to its clients," Rhodes said. "I look forward to continuing this tradition as well as developing new opportunities for the firm's future."

Jennings Strouss takes a progressive and innovative approach to stay competitive. Earlier this year the firm hired Chief Operating Officer Howard Mudrick, a leading law firm management consultant who has been a partner in some of the most influential consulting firms to the legal industry. In recent years the firm has focused its legal practice on emerging markets such as biotechnology and renewable energy projects. Additionally, the firm has expanded locally through lawyer acquisitions and nationally by opening an office in Las Vegas, Nevada.

About Jennings Strouss & Salmon

Jennings Strouss has been providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix and Peoria, Arizona, Las Vegas, Nevada and in Washington, D.C. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate, and technology. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2806.

Matthew L. Cates Elected to Waste Not Board of Directors

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based law firm focused on a variety of practices for corporate clients, is pleased to announce that Matthew L. Cates, a Member with the firm's Phoenix office, has been elected to the Board of Directors of Waste Not, a local perishable food donation network.

Cates, a Phoenix resident, focuses his practice on civil litigation. He has represented clients in insurance defense, insurance bad faith cases, and in civil appeals. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Cates served as a law clerk to the Honorable Susan R. Bolton, of the United States District Court for the District of Arizona and to the Honorable Noel Fidel, of the Arizona Court of Appeals.

"Waste Not is a wonderful local organization which provides a much needed bridge between community waste and community need." said Matt Cates. "I am pleased to have the opportunity to support the Valley community through service on the Board of Directors for Waste Not."

About Waste Not

Hunger remains one of the most daunting challenges in the Phoenix valley today and nearly 50,000 children go to bed hungry in Maricopa County alone. Waste Not is a local perishable food donation network whose vision is for a community where wasted food is a thing of the past and no request for food goes unanswered.

Faced with a poverty status of a staggering 36%, individuals and families who live in Waste Not's primary and secondary delivery areas struggle day-to-day just to meet their basic daily requirements for food, clothing and housing. Waste Not's unique program provides a distinctive approach to helping feed the hungry men, women and children of the valley by providing, on average, 5,000 pounds of food daily to their recipient partner agencies. Not only does Waste Not provide nutritional sustenance, but donations made to their organization help the bottom line for local agencies that are using limited resources to help heal, educate and empower the clients they serve. For more information on Waste Not, please visit their website at www.wastenotaz.org.

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon

Bradley V. Martorana Elected to the Executive Council of the Securities Law Section for the State Bar of Arizona

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based law firm focused on a variety of practices for corporate clients, is pleased to announce that Bradley V. Martorana, an Associate with the firm's Phoenix office, has been elected to the Executive Committee of the Securities Law Section for the State Bar of Arizona.

Martorana, a Scottsdale resident, focuses his practice on corporate, tax and securities law. He is also a Certified Public Accountant. His practice includes counseling corporations, limited liability companies and partnerships as to the tax and non-tax consequences of formation, operation, compensation and other commercial transactions. He also advises buyers and sellers in mergers, acquisitions, reorganizations and other restructurings and represents issuers and investors in private placements of equity and debt securities. Prior to practicing law, Mr. Martorana worked at one of the "big four" accounting firms, where his clients included a national transportation company and private real estate development and management companies.

"I am thrilled to have the opportunity to serve on the Executive Council of the Securities Law Section," said Bradley Martorana. "This is a great chance for me to serve the Bar as well as work with other attorneys who practice securities law."

About the Securities Law Section

The general purpose of the Section is to promote the objectives of the State Bar of Arizona within the area of federal and state securities law, rules and regulations and to further the development of that field of the law and all its branches. Additionally, Members are asked to review, study, report and comment on pending and existing legislation, rules regulations and procedures within the securities law discipline and to simplify and improve the application of justice in this field. Members work to promote throughout the State of Arizona the legal education of members of the Bar and the public on new developments and problems within this field.

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon

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J. Scott Rhodes Appointed Chair of the State Bar of Arizona Ethics Committee

Rhodes, a Mesa resident, focuses his practice on legal ethics and the law of lawyering, including attorneys' fees disputes, energy and utilities law, local government law, and professional corporate governance and structure. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Rhodes served as Law Clerk to the Honorable Robert Corcoran and the Honorable Charles E. Jones, Arizona Supreme Court.

"I am honored to serve as Chair of the Rules of Professional Conduct Committee," said J. Scott Rhodes. "Having previously served as Vice-Chair to the Committee, I am eager to serve again."

About the Ethics Committee

The Ethics Committee is comprised of approximately thirty volunteer attorneys and judges. The Committee was created by the State Bar of Arizona Board of Governors to help the State Bar and its members resolve questions of professional ethics. The Ethics Committee issues formal opinions in writing addressing issues of widespread interest or unusual importance.

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon

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J. Scott Rhodes Appointed by AZ Supreme Court to Attorney Discipline Task Force

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based law firm focused on a variety of practices for corporate clients, is pleased to announce that J. Scott Rhodes, a Member with the firm's Phoenix office as well as General Counsel to the firm, has been appointed by the Supreme Court of the State of Arizona to serve as a Member of its Attorney Discipline Task Force. He will serve as Respondent's Counsel Representative. Rhodes, a Mesa resident, is the only attorney from a large law firm asked to serve on the Task Force.

"I am honored to have been asked to serve as a member of this task force and work alongside some of the most influential legal minds in Arizona," said J. Scott Rhodes. "Working to develop a discipline system that is fair and swift is important not only to the members of this task force and the State Bar, but to the entire Arizona legal community."

Rhodes focuses his practice on legal ethics and the law of lawyering, including attorneys' fees disputes. He also practices in the areas of energy and utilities law, local government law, and professional corporate governance and structure. Because of Rhodes' reputation and capabilities as a professional responsibility lawyer, Jennings Strouss & Salmon is ranked #1 in the US in Ethics and Professional Responsibility Law by Best Lawyers in America® 2010.

The Attorney Discipline Task Force is charged with overhauling the attorney discipline system in Arizona and will design significant changes that will be implemented as early as next year. It has been many years since the Arizona Supreme Court has made significant changes to the attorney discipline system. The Task Force will establish best practices in at least 14 areas, a sampling of which includes: the speed and efficiencies of the intake process for cases at the State Bar, the authority of intake attorneys at the State Bar, the creation of a new judicial position on the Arizona Supreme Court, establishment of volunteer settlement officers, time limits for attorney investigations and judicial decisions, and the creation of a hearing board for attorney disciplinary issues. The Task Force is required to file their amendments to the disciplinary system before the end of 2009.

About the Attorney Discipline Task Force

The Arizona Supreme Court wishes to maintain a fair and impartial discipline system while decreasing the time and cost to process cases, especially those cases that proceed to formal charges. While considerable progress has been made, the Court's goal of processing cases within shorter time frames has not been accomplished. The Court determined that it was time to thoroughly review the attorney discipline system and consider whether significant changes are needed. The Attorney Discipline Task Force was established on July 1, 2009.

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon

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Jennings Strouss Foundation Adopts Gateway Elementary Classroom for School Supply Drive

The Jennings Strouss Foundation, a 501(c)(3) fundraising organization associated with Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based law firm, has selected a fourth and fifth grade "combination" classroom at Gateway Elementary School in the Creighton School District for its back-to-school school supply drive.This is Gateway Elementary School's first year to have a combination classroom of this kind, and Jennings Strouss Foundation is committed to helping its 30 students prepare for the new school year.

"On behalf of the students and parents of teacher Rochelle Dion's class, I would like to thank the Jennings Strouss Foundation for its tremendous generosity, said Dr. Nancy Uxa, Gateway Elementary School principal. "Gateway students are bright and hardworking but sometimes need support with the essential tools to help meet success. Because of Jennings Strouss Foundation's generosity, these student will begin next Monday ready to go."

With budget cuts and the number of low-income families at the Gateway Elementary School, the need for school supplies and student assistance is even greater. Many of the supplies run out midway through the school year and teachers are often burdened with providing the funds for materials out of their own pockets. Items collected for the students include: back packs, erasers, #2 Pencils, small pencil sharpeners, spiral notebooks, rulers, supply storage boxes, Post-it notes, crayons, glue sticks, markers, colored pencils, scissors, Kleenex and hand sanitizer.

Gateway Elementary has a 98 percent minority enrollment and 90 percent of its students are on the free or reduced fee lunch program. Crisis Nursery, a Phoenix-based organization that provides protection, support and opportunities to local families in need and their children, also feeds into the school.

The drive ran during the month of July and garnered more than $2500 in financial and in-kind donations. Items were delivered to the school by Jennings Strouss Foundation board members on Wednesday, August 5, 2009 in time for the August 10 school start date.

About the Jennings Strouss Foundation

The mission of the Jennings Strouss Foundation is to meet the educational needs of disadvantaged individuals, adult and/or children, in the communities in which the firm operates. This goal is reached through the collective efforts, whether financial, in-kind donation, or volunteer work, of the employees of Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., their families, and their friends. Board members include Board Gerald "Buzz" Alston (President); Denise Christiansen (Vice President), David Hansen (Treasurer), John J. Egbert (Secretary), Jean Fielder, Sunita A. Krishna, K.C. Rusbolt, and Valerie J. Walker. For more information, please contact Mr. Alston at 602-262-5966 or galston@jsslaw.com.

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31 Jennings Strouss Attorneys Named 2010 Best Lawyers in America

Jennings Strouss & Salmon is pleased to announce that 31 of the firm's lawyers, more than half of the firm's equity members, have been selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America® 2010 published by Woodward/White, Inc. of Aiken, South Carolina.

The four lawyers new to this year's list are: Peter M. Eichler [Intellectual Property Law], Robert J. Hackett [Securities Law], Wayne A. Smith [Real Estate Law], and Joel L. Greene [Energy Law].

Jennings Strouss attorneys who were selected for inclusion in the 2010 Best Lawyers in America® Edition are:

Phoenix: Gerald W. Alston [Alternative Dispute Resolution/Commercial Litigation/ International Arbitration/International Trade and Finance Law], John R. Christian [Tax Law/Trusts and Estates], Frederick M. Cummings [Medical Malpractice Law/Personal Injury Litigation/Professional Malpractice], Frank X. Curci [Biotechnology Law/ Technology Law], David B. Earl [Appellate Law], John J. Egbert [Labor and Employment Law], Peter M. Eichler [Intellectual Property Law], George M. Esahak-Gage [ Real Estate Law], Lee E. Esch [Real Estate Law], Jay A. Fradkin [Medical Malpractice/Personal Injury Litigation], Douglas Gerlach [Antitrust Law/Commercial Litigation], Robert J. Hackett [Securities Law], Carolyn J. Johnsen [Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law], Gary G. Keltner [Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law, Real Estate Law], Richard L. Lassen [Trusts and Estates], Stephen E. Lee [Tax Law], Richard Lieberman [Corporate Governance and Compliance Law/Mergers & Acquisitions Law/Securities Law], Bruce B. May [Real Estate Law], Michael J. O'Connor [Commercial Litigation/Personal Injury Litigation], J. Scott Rhodes [Administrative Law/ Ethics and Professional Responsibility Law/Legal Malpractice Law], Jack N. Rudel [Corporate Law], John G. Sestak, Jr. [Commercial Litigation], Wayne A. Smith [Real Estate Law], Brian N. Spector [Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law], George C. Spilsbury [Public Finance Law], Bradley J. Stevens [Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law], Kenneth C. Sundlof, Jr. [Energy Law], John C. West [Commercial Litigation/Health Care Law] and Douglas G. Zimmerman [Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law].

Washington D.C.: Alan I. Robbins [Energy Law] and Joel L. Greene [Energy Law].

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon

About Best Lawyers in America

For more than two decades, Best Lawyers has been regarded-by both the legal profession and the public-as the definitive guide to legal excellence in the United States. Lawyers are chosen for inclusion based solely on a vote of their peers. Listings cannot be bought, and no purchase is required to be included. In this regard, Best Lawyers remains the gold standard of reliability and integrity in lawyer ratings. To ensure the continued rigor of the selection process, they urged lawyers to use only their highest standards when voting, and to evaluate each attorney based only on his or her individual merits.

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Jennings Strouss Expands Tax Practice, Hires Lawyers from Bryan Cave

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based law firm focused on a variety of practices for corporate clients, is pleased to announce that Richard C. Smith has joined the firm as a Member and Nancy C. Pohl has joined the firm as an Associate. Both will be practicing in the firm's Phoenix office.

Richard Smith, a Phoenix resident, will practice in the Estate Planning & Probate Law, and Tax Law departments. He focuses his practice on the representation of clients in all aspects of tax, corporate and business planning. His practice has a particular emphasis in the employee benefits law area including the design, implementation and other aspects of pension, profit sharing and other qualified plans. In addition, Mr. Smith also has spent considerable time advising clients on non-qualified deferred compensation plans, incentive stock option plans and other types of employee benefit plans. Mr. Smith is licensed as a certified public accountant in Arizona.

Mr. Smith obtained his J.D. from Syracuse College of Law (1971) and his B.A. from Queens College of the City, University of New York (1967).

Nancy Pohl, a Phoenix resident, focuses her practice in the Estate Planning and Probate, Tax and Corporate Securities and Finance Departments. Her practice is focused on corporate and partnership tax planning, estate planning, tax-exempt organizations, general business planning and federal and state tax litigation. Ms. Pohl also advises clients on estate planning and probate matters.

Ms. Pohl obtained her LL.M. from New York University School of Law (2002), her J.D. from Tulane University Law School (2001) and her B.A. from the University of Virginia (1998).

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon

Jennings Strouss is one of the Southwest's leading law firms, providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix and Peoria, Arizona, Washington, D.C., and Las Vegas, Nevada. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate, and technology. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2806.

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Former Michigan Public Power Agency General Manager Joins Jennings Strouss Energy Practice

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C. is pleased to announce that the former General Manager of Michigan Public Power Agency, Daniel E. Cooper, has joined the firm's Energy practice in the Washington, D.C. office. Jennings Strouss is one of only a few law firms to offer clients energy consultant services with the level of knowledge that Cooper possesses.

Mr. Cooper is a non-lawyer Consulting Engineer in the firm's Energy Law Group. Dan is a Registered Professional Engineer focusing his consulting work on electric utility matters, including economic and feasibility analysis, oversight of electric generating resource operations and development, power supply and transmission contracts, oversight of bulk power operations, compliance with environmental regulations and reliability standards, and review and oversight of transmission and bulk electric power contracts.

Mr. Cooper joined the firm after serving with the Michigan Public Power Agency for more than 16 years, first as Engineering Manager, and later as General Manager. While at Michigan Public Power Agency, his responsibilities included the management of personnel as well as the day-to-day operations of the $120 million per year municipal joint action agency that owns both generation and transmission assets. Prior to joining Michigan Public Power Agency, Dan worked for 12 years for the firm of R. W. Beck.

Mr. Cooper will be providing consulting services to municipalities and electric utilities which include: Bulk electric power supply agreement negotiations, transmission and interconnection agreement negotiations, Regional Transmission Organization ("RTO") energy market expertise, electric generating resource acquisition, compliance with environmental regulations and reliability standards, energy market and transmission service-related overviews for state regulatory commissions and consumer advocate groups, as well as transmission expansion system planning, cost recovery mechanisms and pricing proposal consulting.

"We are thrilled to have someone with Dan's experience and reputation on board with the firm," said Kenneth Sundlof, Jr., Member and Department Chair for Jennings Strouss' Energy Law Group. "Given the ever-increasing complexity of the electric industry, Dan's deep experience in utility regulatory matters and RTO as well as tariff development combine with our energy law expertise to provide our clients with a unique combination of legal and business consulting and counseling," added Alan I. Robbins, a Member of the firm's Energy Law Group in the Washington, D.C. office.

Cooper obtained his M.B.A., in Finance from Indiana University (1980) and his B.S., in Electrical Engineering from the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology (1974).

Fifteen Members of Jennings, Strouss & Salmon Named as 2009 Southwest Super Lawyers

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon is pleased to announce that fifteen (15) Members (Partners) were named as 2009 Southwest Super Lawyers by the publishers of Law & Politics.

Jennings Strouss lawyers listed in the 2009 edition include: Gerald "Buzz" Alston (Business Litigation), John Christian (Tax), Fred Cummings (Medical Malpractice Defense), John Egbert (Employment & Labor), George Esahak-Gage (Real Estate), Lee Esch (Real Estate), Jay Fradkin (Medical Malpractice Defense), Carolyn Johnsen (Bankruptcy & Creditor/Debtor Rights), Stephen Lee (Tax), Bruce May (Real Estate), Steve Newmark (Tax), Michael O'Connor (Business Litigation), Michael Palumbo (Business Litigation), Brian Spector (Bankruptcy &Creditor/Debtor Rights), and John West (Health Care).

CityScape New Headquarters For Jennings Strouss in June 2010

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC, one of the most respected law firms in the Valley, will move its Phoenix headquarters to CityScape, a 1.8-million-plus-square-foot urban development located at the core of downtown Phoenix.

The Jennings Strouss & Salmon lease totals approximately 54,000 square feet and brings occupancy commitments for CityScape's office tower to more than 55 percent. The law firm will be relocating to CityScape in June 2010.

RED Development L.L.C. is the developer of CityScape, a multi-use project that is part of the resurgence of downtown Phoenix. The property, which is adjacent to the US Airways Center and within two blocks of Chase Field, encompasses two linear blocks. The boundaries are: 1st Avenue to the west, 1st Street to the east, Washington Street to the north, and Jefferson Street to the south.

"CityScape has been eagerly anticipated in downtown Phoenix for the vibrancy it will bring to the area, and we're pleased to be part of it," said John C. West, managing attorney with Jennings, Strouss & Salmon. "The new office building offers efficient space planning options and the opportunity to roll out a state-of-the-art work environment for our firm. We're excited about this move."

"The availability of new Class A office space in a mixed-use development that incorporates the entire downtown district has attracted many major tenants to CityScape," said Keith Earnest, vice president of development at RED Development. "There is a unique opportunity to capture the true nature of a 24/7 downtown environment."

The first phase of CityScape includes a 575,000-square-foot office building and 1,250 below-grade parking spaces, as well as approximately 180,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space. The first phase is scheduled to open late in 2009. The development's second phase includes additional retail and a four-star Kimpton Hotel Palomar.

Other signed tenants at CityScape include AJ's Fine Foods; a Fox Restaurant Concepts restaurant; and Urban Outfitters.

Sam Merek, Blaine Black and Brian Black with Cushman & Wakefield handled the lease transaction for Jennings, Strouss & Salmon.

Jennings Strouss & Salmon is consistently ranked among the top law firms in Arizona. Founded in 1942, the firm provides a comprehensive range of transactional and litigation services to a diverse client base. The firm employs more than 90 attorneys and has offices in Phoenix; Peoria, Ariz.; Las Vegas; and Washington D.C. For more information, visit: www.jsslaw.com.

RED Development, formed in 1995, develops, leases, manages and owns real estate developments in rapidly growing communities throughout the Midwest and Southwest. RED has 30 centers open, in development, or under construction, totaling nearly 19 million square feet. Within the industry, RED has earned a reputation for delivering as promised and creating strong relationships with its tenants, communities and business partners. RED has nearly 200 employees and is co-headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., and Kansas City, Mo. To learn more, visit www.reddevelpment.com.

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Jennings, Strouss & Salmon Joins The Law Firm Alliance

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., a leading Phoenix-based law firm focused on a variety of practices for corporate clients, is pleased to announce that they have accepted an invitation to join the Law Firm Alliance.

The Law Firm Alliance is an affiliation of 50 law firms in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the European Union, created for referrals of legal matters. LFA members are mid-sized law firms with a relatively narrow geographic scope. All are highly regarded commercial firms offering a variety of corporate and litigation services, and each U.S. based LFA member has received an AV peer review rating from LexisNexis Martindale-Hubbell. The Alliance also provides an opportunity for member firms to share information on providing better client service, on improving firm governance and on marketing strategies.

"Jennings, Strouss & Salmon is pleased to participate in such a dynamic group," said John C. West, Jennings Strouss & Salmon Managing Attorney. "The Law Firm Alliance is well respected organization and is a great way for our firm to provide our clients with access to talented lawyers outside of our local markets."

About Jennings, Strouss & Salmon

The firm has built its reputation around its litigation services, real estate, business bankruptcy, finance and utility attorneys. With the development of new technologies, Jennings Strouss has emerged as a leader in the rapidly expanding fields of technology law, e-commerce and biotechnology and life sciences; this reputation has earned them a #1 rating in these areas by The Best Lawyers in America 2009. They are one of only a handful of Arizona-based firms with a Washington D.C. energy practice.

Stephanie Hart Elected as Vice President of the Returned Peace Corps Volunteers Board

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., is pleased to announce that Stephanie Hart, an Associate with the firm's Phoenix office, has been elected as Vice President to the Board of Returned Peace Corps Volunteers of Phoenix, Arizona.

Hart, a Phoenix resident, focuses her practice on litigation, with an emphasis on real estate and employment law. Prior to joining Jennings Strouss, Ms. Hart practiced in New York and Los Angeles, serving the needs of business clients in "bet-the-company" commercial litigations. Ms. Hart also served as law clerk to the Honorable Ferdinand F. Fernandez of the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, as well as to the Honorable Constance Baker Motley of the U.S. Southern District of New York. Ms. Hart worked as campaign staff in the 2008 presidential primary elections; she continues to volunteer her time as Special Counsel to the New York Democratic Lawyers Council. Prior to attending law school, Ms. Hart served in the United States Peace Corps in Poland teaching English as a second language. Hart received her law degree from the Columbia University School of Law (2000) and her B.A. from Arizona State University (1993).

"I am thrilled to have the opportunity to continue to support the Peace Corps through my involvement on the Board," said Hart. "Participating in the Peace Corps has always been a worthwhile experience."

The Peace Corps Volunteers of Phoenix is a community of former and prospective volunteers who live in the Phoenix and Central Arizona region. The focus of the group is to promote Peace Corps ideals through cultural education, community outreach and service. It also provides social activities and emotional support for returned and future Peace Corps volunteers and their families.

Russell R. Rea Appointed to Valley Forward Association's Board of Directors

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C., is pleased to announce that Russell R. Rea, a Member with the firm's Phoenix office, has been appoined to the Board of Directors of Valley Forward Association.

Rea, a Phoenix resident, practices in commercial litigation with a focus in the areas of eminent domain, real estate and construction. Mr. Rea has significant experience litigating in Arizona state and Federal courts in condemnation-related disputes for both governmental/quasi-governmental condemners and property owners; right-of-way disputes involving utility services and irrigation water delivery facilities; commercial and residential construction defect and payment disputes for owners, architectural and engineering firms and contractors; and landlord-tenant disputes. Rea received his law degree from Arizona State University (1992) and his B.S. from Texas Christian University (1989).

"I am thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute to such a worthwhile organization," said Russell Rea. "I deal with environmental and quality-of-life issues every day in my practice, so getting involved with Valley Forward was the perfect fit for me."

Valley Forward is a public interest organization that has influenced quality of life and environmental decisions since 1969. The Association is a blend of members including large and small businesses, government jurisdictions and others that share a goal of promoting cooperation to improve the environment and quality of life in the Valley. It was formed as a non-profit group merging the Phoenix Development Association, Mid-Town Improvement Association, Valley Beautiful Citizens Council and Maricopa County Taxpayers Association. Valley Forward has more than 275 member companies, involving 600 active participants working together to help shape our community and move our Valley forward.

Matthew L. Cates and David W. Elston Elected Members (Partners) of Jennings Strouss

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C. is pleased to announce that Matthew L. Cates and David W. Elston have been elected Members (Partners) of the firm, effective January 1, 2009.

Cates, a Phoenix resident, focuses his practice on civil litigation. He has represented clients in insurance defense, insurance bad faith cases, and in civil appeals. Cates obtained his J.D. from the Arizona State University, Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law (1999) and his B.A. from Bowdoin College (1996).

Elston, a Phoenix resident, focuses his practice on real estate and commercial transactions, corporate securities and corporate formation, zoning issues, and sports representation. Mr. Elston is also a Registered Agent with the Major League Baseball Players Association and has represented over a dozen major league baseball players, negotiating over $50 million worth of guaranteed major league baseball contracts on their behalf. Elston obtained his J.D. from The University of Toledo College of Law (1984) and his B.S. from Ohio State University (1980).

Jennings Strouss Selected as one of the "Best Places to Work"

Jennings Strouss & Salmon is pleased to announce that it has been named to The Phoenix Business Journal and BestCompaniesAZ, "2008 Best Places to Work" list in the medium-sized business category (under 500 employees). This is the second year in a row that the firm has been selected as a "Best Place to Work."

"We are excited to rank #12 on the "Best Place to Work" in the Valley list this year, said John C. West, Managing Attorney. "Making the list is truly an honor that undoubtedly provides all of our employees with a sense of pride."

A record number of more than 300 companies completed the survey this year. Winners were announced at the "Best Places to Work" Luncheon, December 11^th at the Arizona Biltmore.

Michael R. Palumbo Inducted As A Fellow Into The Litigation Counsel Of America

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon is pleased to announce that on October 21, 2008, Michael R. Palumbo, a Member of the firm's Phoenix office, was inducted as a Fellow into the Litigation Counsel of America (LCA).

Mr. Palumbo has practiced law for 25 years. He has been a Member of the firm since 1989 and served as a former Chair of the Commercial Litigation Department. Mr. Palumbo's practice focuses on commercial and real estate litigation. Particular areas of experience include banking (UCC Articles 3 & 4) litigation; title insurance, escrow agent and Deed of Trust litigation; quiet title, adverse possession, homeowners' associations and real estate agent disputes.

He has participated in more than 40 trials in the Superior Courts of Arizona and District Court of Arizona, in most of which he was lead counsel. Mr. Palumbo has served as a Judge Pro Tem for the Maricopa County Superior Courts since 1998 and has presided over trials and dozens of settlement conferences since that time.

Palumbo received his J.D. from University of Notre Dame Law School (1981) and his B.A. from LaSalle College (1968).

The Litigation Counsel of America is a trial lawyer honorary society composed of less than one-half of one percent of American lawyers. Fellowship in the LCA is highly selective and by invitation only. Fellows are selected based upon effectiveness and accomplishment in litigation, both at the trial and appellate levels, and superior ethical reputation. The LCA is aggressively diverse in its composition. Established as a trial and appellate lawyer honorary society reflecting the American bar in the twenty-first century, the LCA represents the best in law among its membership.

Michael J. O’Connor Inducted Into The American College of Trial Lawyers

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C. is pleased to announce that Michael J. O'Connor, a Member (Partner) with the firm's Phoenix office, was selected for induction into the American College of Trial Lawyers. Michael will join only 39 other lawyers in Phoenix with this distinction and is one of the youngest lawyers in the State of Arizona to be inducted. O'Connor, a Scottsdale resident, will be honored at the induction ceremony, Saturday, September 28.

Mr. O'Connor is a litigator with extensive trial experience in products liability, utility litigation, complex commercial litigation, and insurance coverage matters.

O'Connor received his law degree from George Washington University National Law Center and his B.A. from Johns Hopkins University.

The American College of Trial Lawyers is composed of the best of the trial bar from the United States and Canada and is widely considered to be the premier professional trial organization in America. Fellowship is extended only by invitation, after careful investigation, to those experienced trial lawyers who have mastered the art of advocacy and whose professional careers have been marked by the highest standards of ethical conduct, professionalism, civility and collegiality.

Although there are currently more than 5,000 Fellows across the U.S. and Canada, membership can never be more than 1% of the total lawyer population of any state or province. Qualified lawyers are called to Fellowship in the College from all branches of trial practice. They are selected from among advocates who represent plaintiffs or defendants in civil proceedings of all types, as well as prosecutors and criminal defense lawyers. The College is thus able to speak with a balanced voice on important issues affecting the administration of justice.

30 Jennings Strouss Attorneys Selected For 2009 Best Lawyers in America®

Jennings Strouss & Salmon is pleased to announce that 30 of the firm's lawyers, more than half of the firm's equity members, have been selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America® 2009 published by Woodard/White, Inc. of Aiken, South Carolina.

The six lawyers new to this year's list are: Frank X. Curci [Biotechnology Law/ Technology Law], David B. Earl [Appellate Law], Marc C. Gordon [Corporate Law], J. Scott Rhodes [Administrative Law Ethics/ Professional Responsibility Law/Legal Malpractice Law], George C. Spilsbury [Public Finance Law] and Bradley J. Stevens [Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law].

Jennings Strouss attorneys who were selected for inclusion in the 2009 Best Lawyers in America® Edition are:

Phoenix: Gerald W. Alston [Alternative Dispute Resolution/Commercial Litigation/ International Arbitration/International Trade and Finance Law], John R. Christian [Tax Law/Trusts and Estates], Fred Cummings [Medical Malpractice Law/Personal Injury Litigation], Frank X. Curci [Biotechnology Law/ Technology Law], David B. Earl [Appellate Law], John J. Egbert [Labor and Employment Law], George M. Esahak-Gage [ Real Estate Law], Lee E. Esch [Real Estate Law], Jay A. Fradkin [Medical Malpractice/Personal Injury Litigation], Douglas Gerlach [Antitrust Law/Commercial Litgation], Carolyn J. Johnsen [Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law], Gary G. Keltner [Real Estate Law], Richard L. Lassen [Trusts and Estates], Stephen E. Lee [Tax Law], Richard Lieberman [Corporate Governance and Compliance Law/Mergers & Acquisitions Law/Securities Law], Bruce B. May [Real Estate Law], Michael J. O'Connor [Commercial Litigation/Personal Injury Litigation], J. Scott Rhodes [Administrative Law Ethics/ Professional Responsibility Law/Legal Malpractice Law], Philip A. Robbins [Personal Injury Litigation], Jack N. Rudel [Corporate Law], John G. Sestak, Jr. [Commercial Litigation], George C. Spilsbury [Public Finance Law], Brian N. Spector [Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law], Bradley J. Stevens [Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law], Kenneth C. Sundlof, Jr. [Energy Law], John C. West [Commercial Litigation/Health Care Law] and Douglas G. Zimmerman [Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law].

Las Vegas: Marc C. Gordon [Corporate Law] and Frederic I. Berkley [Labor and Employment Law]

Washington D.C.: Alan I. Robbins [Energy Law]

About Best Lawyers in America

For more than two decades, Best Lawyers has been regarded-by both the legal profession and the public-as the definitive guide to legal excellence in the United States. Lawyers are chosen for inclusion based solely on a vote of their peers. Listings cannot be bought, and no purchase is required to be included. In this regard, Best Lawyers remains the gold standard of reliability and integrity in lawyer ratings. To ensure the continued rigor of the selection process, they urged lawyers to use only their highest standards when voting, and to evaluate each attorney based only on his or her individual merits.

Four Associates Join Jennings Strouss & Salmon

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C. is pleased to announce that Stephanie Hart, John Lopez, Sunita Krishna, and Kerry Hodges have joined the firm as associates.

Hart, a Phoenix resident, joins the firm's litigation and real estate practices. Prior to joining Jennings Strouss in 2008, Ms. Hart practiced in New York and Los Angeles, serving the needs of business clients in complex commercial litigation matters. Ms. Hart served as law clerk to the Honorable Ferdinand F. Fernandez of the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, as well as to the Honorable Constance Baker Motley of the U.S. Southern District of New York. Most recently, Ms. Hart worked as campaign staff in the 2008 presidential primary elections; she continues to volunteer her time as Special Counsel to the New York Democratic Lawyers Council. Prior to attending law school, Ms. Hart served in the United States Peace Corps in Poland teaching English as a second language. Hart obtained her J.D. from Columbia University School of Law (2000), where she was a Senior Editor of the Columbia Law Review, and two bachelor's degrees from Arizona State University: one in French and one in English (1993).

Mr. Lopez, a Tempe resident, joins the firm's Biotechnology & Life Sciences Industry Group and the firm's Intellectual Property & Technology Practice Group. Prior to entering law school, Mr. Lopez worked for several years in regulatory affairs in the pharmaceutical industry in Southern California. Lopez earned his J.D. at the Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law at Arizona State University (2008), his M.S. at the University of Southern California, School of Pharmacy (2005) in Regulatory Science, and his B.S. in Microbiology and B.A. in Law & Society at the University of California, Santa Barbara (2003).

Krishna, a Phoenix resident, joins the firm's litigation practice as well as the product liability and tort and insurance law practices. During law school, Ms. Krishna worked in the San Francisco City Attorney's office and the White House as a legal intern. While earning her masters degree, Ms. Krishna worked as a staff assistant to Senator John McCain on the United States Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. Additionally, she worked as a staff assistant to Senator Jon Kyl in Washington, D.C. Krishna obtained her J.D. from the University of Arizona, James E. Rogers College of Law (2008) her M.A. from Johns Hopkins University in Government (2006) and her B.A. cum laude from the University of Arizona majoring in Political Science (2002).

Hodges, a Litchfield Park resident, joins the firm's litigation practice. While earning his law degree, Mr. Hodges served as a legal extern to the United States District Court, District of Arizona Judge James A. Teilborg. Prior to entering law school, Mr. Hodges played minor-league baseball for two seasons with the Houston Astros. Hodges obtained his J.D. from the Regent University School of Law (2007) and his B.S. magna cum laude from Texas Tech University (2003) majoring in English.

Jennings Strouss is one of the Southwest's leading law firms, providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix, and at Arrowhead, Arizona, Washington, DC., and Las Vegas, Nevada. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate, and technology. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2806.

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Jennings Strouss Lawyers Instrumental In Arizona Snowbowl Win

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled today that using A+ reclaimed water to make artificial snow at a Flagstaff ski resort does not violate the religious freedom of Native Americans. The ruling would also enable Arizona Snowbowl to replace old lifts, construct a new lodge and create more skiing terrain.

The decision out of the court's Ninth Circuit in San Francisco overturns an earlier appellate decision to the contrary. The issue, which has received national attention, has see-sawed since January 2006, when a federal judge in Prescott first ruled that Arizona Snowbowl's upgrade plan was acceptable under federal environmental law.

A coalition of tribes and environmental groups led by the Navajo Nation appealed the decision on religious grounds, and it was overturned in March 2007 by a three-judge panel at the Ninth Circuit. Snowbowl's owners asked us to assist them in having the case reviewed en banc, that is, by a panel of eleven appellate judges, which came back with a 8-3 decision in favor of Snowbowl.

Jenning Strouss attorneys Paul Johnson, John Egbert and Michael O’Connor were co-counsel with Hogan & Hartson in D.C. on the en banc appeal for the Arizona Snowbowl. Mr. Johnson was also co-counsel in the District Court action and initial appeal.

Todd Tuggle Joins Jennings Strouss

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C. is pleased to announce that Todd B. Tuggle has joined the firm as an Associate in the firm’s Phoenix office.

Tuggle, a Phoenix resident, will practice in the Bankruptcy and Litigation Departments. He practices in the areas of bankruptcy, creditor and debtors’ rights, business reorganization and commercial litigation.

Mr. Tuggle has been working in Arizona and Nevada as an attorney for several years. Prior to his work in private practice, Mr. Tuggle served as a law clerk to Honorable Robert Clive Jones, who was serving both as a bankruptcy court judge and as a member of the Bankruptcy Appellate Panel of the Ninth Circuit at the time and who currently serves on the United States District Court, District of Nevada. Mr. Tuggle has also worked on a number of cases in which an opinion was published.

Mr. Tuggle obtained his J.D. from Brigham Young University, J. Ruben Clark School of Law (1996) as well as both his B.A., in Japanese and his B.S., in Sociology from Brigham Young University (1993).

Jennings Strouss Appointed Debtor Counsel in Mortgages Ltd. Bankruptcy

Jennings Strouss Member, Carolyn Johnsen, was appointed as debtor's counsel in the Mortgages Ltd. bankruptcy after Greenberg Traurig was asked to resign.

Mortgages Ltd, one of Arizona's largest private equity commercial real estate lenders, filed for reorganization under Chapter 11 in June 2008 after Grace Communities filed a petition in an attempt to force the lender into Chapter 7 bankruptcy. The filing came weeks after the death of the lender's chairman and sole shareholder, Scott M. Coles.

Unprecedented Result for Jennings Strouss Client - The City of Hamilton, Ohio

Alan Robbins and Debra Roby successfully secured for their client, the City of Hamilton, Ohio, a 50-year license from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to construct and operate a 105 MW hydropower project at the Captain Anthony Meldahl Locks and Dam on the Ohio River. Once constructed, the Meldahl Project will be the largest hydropower project on the Ohio River and will supply emissions-free energy to customers in the Ohio Valley region for generations to come. With rising environmental concerns, obtaining a hydropower license is extremely competitive and holding that license is very valuable.

The City of Hamilton was late to the game with already two competing applications pending for a permit to study the site. The only way Hamilton could even hope to compete was to bypass the permitting stage to elevate the proceeding directly to the more complex licensing stage. To compete, Hamilton had to be the first to file its license application in 120 days.

Robbins and Roby adopted and executed a very aggressive regulatory strategy to do in four months what normally takes closer to four years; and do so in a manner that satisfied the very detailed regulations governing the environmental and resource agency consultation process. This approach was unprecedented at FERC and required extensive meetings with State and Federal environmental and resource agencies and Indian Tribes, as well as public meetings in Kentucky and Ohio. With the help of engineering experts and environmental consultants, Robbins and Roby filed Hamilton's three-volume license application three days before the deadline, and before Hamilton's competitors filed their applications.

The end result was that the City of Hamilton beat its competition, including another municipality and an investor owned utility. The Meldahl license was issued to Hamilton in record time - approximately 20 months from the date the application was filed with FERC, and approximately 25 months from the date Hamilton's "Notice of Intent" was filed - which is approximately three to four years sooner than the normal timeframe. This project now goes from a paper proposal to a $400 - 600 million project with steel in the ground (and water), which is truly exciting.

Brad Stevens Appointed President of The State Bar of Arizona Bankruptcy Section

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon is pleased to announce that Bradley J. Stevens a Member (Partner) with the firm's Phoenix office, has been appointed as President of the State Bar of Arizona Bankruptcy Section. The purpose of the Section is to promote the objectives of the State Bar in the fields of bankruptcy, insolvency laws, debtor's rights, creditor's rights and related fields such as organizational, educational, and promotional activities and review of and comment on pending and existing legislation, rules and procedures.

Stevens, a Moon Valley resident, is a bankruptcy attorney and litigator whose practice focuses on debt resolution and Chapter 11 practice. He represents committees, creditors, debtors and trustees, and handles bankruptcy litigation and collection matters, including foreclosures, replevins, fraudulent transfer actions, provisional remedies and other actions involving collection of secured and unsecured debt. He is a member of the Commercial Law League of America and the American Bankruptcy Institute.

Stevens received his J.D. from the University of Utah College of Law and his B.A. from the University of Utah.

Garrett Olexa Selected For 2008-2009 Leadership West Class

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C. is pleased to announce that Garrett Olexa, a Member (Partner) with the firm's Peoria office, was selected for the 2008-2009 Leadership West Class XV.

Olexa, a Glendale resident, is a litigator whose practice focuses in the areas of real estate disputes, contractual claims, and personal injury litigation. Prior to joining Jennings Strouss, Mr. Olexa has had extensive experience representing individuals who have been seriously or catastrophically injured in motor vehicle collisions, as well as those who have been injured by defective products.
Olexa received his law degree from Villanova University School of Law and his B.A. from LaSalle University.

Leadership West focuses on educating and developing leaders dedicated to the advancement of the West Valley. The nine-month program from September through June brings together a diverse mix of emerging West Valley leaders each year. Classes are limited to only a handful of people and applicants are interviewed in-person after answering a lengthy application form.

Fifteen Members Named As 2008 Southwest Super Lawyers

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon is pleased to announce that fifteen (15) Members (Partners) were named as 2008 Southwest Super Lawyers by the publishers of Law & Politics.

Jennings Strouss lawyers listed in the 2008 edition include: Gerald "Buzz" Alston (Business Litigation), John Christian (Tax), Frederick Cummings (Personal Injury Defense: Medical Malpractice), John Egbert (Employment & Labor), George Esahak-Gage (Real Estate), Lee Esch (Real Estate), Jay Fradkin (Personal Injury Defense: Medical Malpractice), Carolyn Johnsen (Bankruptcy &Creditor/Debtor Rights), Gary Keltner (Bankruptcy & Creditor/Debtor Rights), Stephen Lee (Tax), Bruce May (Real Estate), Stephen Newmark (Tax) , Philip Robbins (General Litigation), Brian Spector (Bankruptcy &Creditor/Debtor Rights), and John West (Health Care).

Super Lawyers was first published in 1991 and can be found in more than 30 states. Super Lawyers is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey in which 18,000 ballots are sent to active lawyers in Arizona and New Mexico. Law & Politics' research department examined and evaluated the background and experience of the candidates and made final selections based on firm size, highest point totals in each category. Only 5 percent of the total lawyers in Arizona are listed in Super Lawyers. Lawyers are not required or allowed to pay a fee to be listed in the publication.

Valerie Walker and Terry Cushing Join as Associates

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C. is pleased to announce that Valerie Walker and Terry Cushing have joined the firm as Associates in the firm's Phoenix office.

Walker, a Phoenix resident, will practice in the Litigation and Labor and Employment Departments. Prior to attending law school, Walker worked as a representative for 20,000 flight attendants at United Airlines. Walker obtained her J.D. from Loyola University Chicago School of Law and her B.A. from Arizona State University.

Cushing, a North Phoenix resident, will practice in the Litigation Department. He practices in the areas of products liability, commercial litigation, real estate, personal injury and insurance. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Cushing became a federal law clerk to Honorable Earl H. Carroll, United States District Court, District of Arizona. During law school, he completed an internship with Honorable Sylvia H. Rambo, U.S. District Court, Middle District of Pennsylvania. During college, he completed and internship at The White House and also interned for a U.S. Congressman. Prior to law school, Mr. Cushing worked for Thunderbird, The American Graduate School of International Management as a Program Director for the Executive Education Department. Cushing obtained his J.D. from Penn State Dickinson School of Law (2003) and his B.A. from George Washington University (1996).

Gary Keltner To Be Honored By the Bankruptcy Section at the Arizona State Bar Convention

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C. is pleased to announce that Gary Keltner, a Member (Partner) with the firm's Phoenix office, will be honored at this year's State Bar Convention by the Bankruptcy Section for his service to the practice for more than 45 years. Keltner, a Paradise Valley resident, will be honored at a tribute ceremony at 5pm on Thursday, June 19. The award will be given by Chief Bankruptcy Judge Tom Baum.

Keltner is a bankruptcy attorney and litigator whose practice focuses on commercial bankruptcy and workouts. He has handled a wide variety of business transaction and litigation matters during his years of practice, with extensive experience in loan and sale transactions, in bankruptcy, commercial and real estate litigation, and in creditors' rights. He is included in Southwest Super Lawyers, as one of the top 5% of lawyers in Arizona.
Keltner received his law degree from The University of Arizona as well as his B.A. from The University of Arizona. He is also a graduate of the Judge Advocate General's School and is a recipient of the Army's Commendation Medal for his service to the United States.

Lee E. Esch Becomes Chair of the Real Estate Department at Jennings Strouss

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon is pleased to announce that Lee Esch has been appointed Chair of the Real Estate Department. Mr. Esch is certified by the State Bar of Arizona's Board of Legal Specialization as a Real Estate Specialist.

Mr. Esch graduated from the University of Arizona College of Law and has been practicing law in Arizona for more than 45 years. Mr. Esch has extensive experience advising clients on financing, acquisition, development, construction, leasing and sale of commercial, industrial, and retail real estate projects, as well as loan workouts and foreclosures.

Janet Hutchison elected President of Junior League of Phoenix Foundation

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon is pleased to announce that Janet B. Hutchison, a Member (Partner) with the firm's Phoenix office, has been elected as President of The Junior League of Phoenix Foundation.

Hutchison, a Scottsdale resident, has served on the Foundation board for the past two years and was a founding director of the Foundation. She also served as past-president of The Junior League of Phoenix, Inc. Hutchison is a commercial transactional attorney and litigator whose practice focuses on the areas of real estate, lending, employment and general business matter. She received her J.D. from Arizona State University College of Law and her B.A. from Arizona State University.

Established in 2004 as a support organization to The Junior League of Phoenix, Inc. The Junior League of Phoenix Foundation supports the past, current and future programs of the Junior League. The Junior League has been improving our community for more than 70 years and the Foundation is working to build an endowment to continue that strong sense of commitment and leadership in giving back.

Jennings Strouss Sponsors Biz Mix Event with Phoenix Business Journal

Jennings Strouss is partnering with the Phoenix Business Journal to sponsor Biz Mix. The networking event will be held on Tuesday, April 22 at 5:30pm at FOX Sports Grill in Scottsdale.

$20 registration fee includes heavy hors d'oeuvres, cocktails and a donation to the Arizona Osteoporosis Coalition.

The Arizona Osteoporosis Coalition is a 501c3 non profit organization with a mission to raise awareness of Osteoporosis. 800,000 Arizonans have OSTEO which costs AZ $25 million annually. Funds raised provide resources for education, public awareness and screening. The first annual "Generations of Women Luncheon" will be held at The Biltmore Resort on Friday May 9th. For Mother`s Day, send the women in your life, and you to this special event! Individual seats are $200. Visit the AZOC web site www.fitbones.org for information.

Click here to register for the Biz Mix event.

Jennings Strouss’ Carolyn Johnsen Named Top Five Finalist For Golden Heart of Business Award

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C. is pleased to announce that Carolyn Johnsen has been named a top five (5) finalist for the Arizona Woman magazine's "Golden Heart of Business Award."

The "Golden Heart of Business Award" acknowledges an Arizona woman who is deeply entrenched in the community. This award is presented to a woman who gives back through contributions of time or resources and has made the Valley a better place to live. She not only cares about her community, but makes a significant contribution on a personal level. She has developed nurturing relationships with her employees and customers.

The nomination recognizes Johnsen for her business prowess and her advocacy in the education of women business owners and students in financial matters. Additionally, she is acknowledged for her civic work with the Turnaround Management Association and Valley Commerce Bank.

The winner is named at the Arizona Woman's annual Who's Who in Business Luncheon, recognizing outstanding women in our community. This year's event will be held on May 22, 2008 at the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa.

Jennings Strouss Expands International and Real Estate Groups With Dual-Licensed Attorney William Herrera

As part of its strategic plan to expand both its International and Real Estate practices serving clients who do business in Mexico and throughout Latin America, Jennings, Strouss & Salmon has hired William R. Herrera, one of only a handful of Arizona/Mexico dual-licensed attorneys in the state.

Mr. Herrera, a Scottsdale resident, practices corporate law, with an emphasis on Mexico-related joint ventures, primarily in real estate and hospitality, representing Mexican and non-Mexican enterprises.

Prior to joining the firm, he practiced international business law in Mexico City for more than 11 years. Mr. Herrera received a J.D. from the University of California, Los Angeles in 1991, a J.D. from Universidad Mexicana in 2004 and his undergraduate degree from Stanford in 1988.

"As Phoenix becomes the hub of a rapidly developing international trade region, our strategy is to be able to offer counsel and first-hand experience on both sides of the border," said John C. West, Managing Attorney. "Continuing changes in Mexican law make it important for companies doing business there to have access to experienced U.S. commercial lawyers who understand the nuances of the law and have contacts in the Mexican legal communities. Bill provides that experience to our clients."

700 Phoenix Prep Academy Students Learn About the U.S. Bill Of Rights From Jennings Strouss Lawyers

Nine attorneys from Jennings, Strouss & Salmon will give more than 700 students at Phoenix Prep Academy first-hand experience about the importance of the U.S. Bill of Rights and its relevance during a series of presentations in the school auditorium on Tuesday, Dec. 11.

The attorneys will bring insight into the first ten amendments of the Constitution through PowerPoint presentations to six different groups of students beginning at 7:45 a.m. and running through 2:30 p.m.

Jennings Strouss attorneys approached Phoenix Prep Academy administrators about the program for inner-city students near the law firm's main office.

"At a time when democracy is being both hailed and assailed around the world, we felt it was vital for these students to know just how meaningful and important the Bill of Rights is and has been for more than two hundred years," said John C. West, Managing Attorney. "Those who framed the Constitution showed remarkable foresight in their judgment and thinking. For it to continue to be so relevant shows how valuable a document it is."

Lawyers Bradley J. Stevens, Monique D. Young, Bradley V. Martorana, Todd M. Adkins, Eric D. Gere, Peter T. Donovan, Matthew J. Mansfield, Jimmie W. Pursell and Michael R. Palumbo will lead the six, one-hour presentations to social studies classes in an assembly format. Additional support and planning was done by attorneys Julie A. LaFave, Ronald D. Roach, Paul G. Johnson, Janet B. Hutchison and William R. Herrera.

Presentation schedule is as follows. The media is invited to attend:

1st Group: 7:45 - 8:45am
2nd Group: 8:55 - 9:47am
3rd Group: 9:55 - 10:49am
4th Group: 10:58 - 11:51am
5th Group: 12:30 - 1:23pm
6th Group: 1:30 - 2:30pm

The United States Bill of Rights limits the powers of the federal government and protect the rights of all citizens, residents and visitors on United States territory. Among the rights guaranteed are: freedoms of speech, press, and religion; the right to keep and bear arms; freedom of assembly; freedom to petition; and the rights to be free of unreasonable search and seizure; cruel and unusual punishment; and compelled self-incrimination.

Jennings Strouss is one of the Southwest's leading law firms, has provided legal counsel for more than 65 years through offices in Phoenix, Scottsdale and at Arrowhead, Arizona and in Washington, DC. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate and technology. If you would like to attend, please contact Kristen Campbell at 602.495.2806 or kcampbell@jsslaw.com.

Three Associates Join Jennings Strouss

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C. is pleased to announce that Todd Adkins, Vojtek "VK" Karpuk, and Anne Hardwick have joined the firm as associates.

Adkins, a Scottsdale resident, joins the firm's business restructuring and litigation practices. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Adkins served as a law clerk to First Magnus Financial Corporation's General Counsel and as law clerk to the Arizona Attorney General's Office, Capital Litigation Division and as legislative liaison to the Arizona Supreme Court. Adkins obtained his J.D. from the University of Arizona James E. Rogers School of Law (2007) and his B.A. from the University of Arizona majoring in Philosophy (2002).

Hardwick, a Phoenix resident, joins the firm's litigation practice. Prior to joining the firm Ms. Hardwick served as a legal extern to the Arizona Attorney General's Office, Drug Unit. Hardwick obtained her J.D. cum laude from the Arizona State University, Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law (2007) and her B.A., summa cum laude from Webster University (2004) majoring in Political Science.

Karpuk, a Fountain Hills resident, joins the firm's corporate, securities and finance as well as intellectual property and government relations law practices. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Karpuk served as a legal intern with ING Americas U.S. Legal Services/ING Funds. Karpuk obtained his J.D. from the Arizona State University, Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law (2007) and his B.S. from the Arizona State University (1998).

ASU Technopolis And Jennings Strouss Present the 3rd Annual Commercializing Arizona Life Sciences Forum on October 18th

ASU Technopolis and Jennings Strouss & Salmon are pleased to present the 3rd Annual Commercializing Arizona Life Sciences Forum from 7:30am to 7:00pm on Thursday, October 18, 2007 at the Wyndham Phoenix hotel in downtown Phoenix.

The conference will focus on the process of transferring scientific discoveries and inventions from the research lab in universities and other research institutes into commercially-viable products and services that private sector biotechnology and life sciences companies can take into the global marketplace. While Arizona has established itself as a life sciences research state, it continues to struggle in the areas that can create the most economic benefit from the research, the commercialization.

Topics include discussions of the applied research taking place in Arizona research institutes, challenges faced by research institutes in evaluating the commercial potential of an invention, private sector licensee identification to commercialize inventions and negotiate technology transfer issues as well as a discussion about the key finance and corporate issues confronting biotech/life sciences "start-ups."

Speakers include Pratik Shah from Thomas McNerney and Partners and other thought leaders from companies such as Flinn Foundation, SunHealth, TGen, AzTE, Desert Angels, Inglewood Ventures, Jennings Strouss, and Mayo Clinic.

To register for the conference visit: www.asutechnopolis.org. For more information about the conference contact Terree Parlett Wasley at 480-727-8871. You may also view this event by clicking here: You may also view this event by clicking here.

About Jennings Strouss & Salmon
Jennings Strouss has been providing legal counsel for more than 65 years through its offices in Phoenix, Scottsdale and at Arrowhead, Arizona and in Washington, D.C. The firm's primary industries of practice include energy, health care, real estate, and technology. For additional information please visit www.jsslaw.com or call 602.495.2806.

About ASU Technopolis
ASU Technopolis is the high impact and focused initiative to move research in technology and the life sciences into the private sector and propel Greater Phoenix into the international economic arena as a viable player. A combination of targeted entrepreneurial education, coaching, and networking is producing results that will fuel business expansion, job growth, and greater prosperity for Arizonans. ASU Technopolis is a convener - connecting people into the University, and those within the University to the community at large. Through ASU Technopolis, entrepreneurs are receiving first-hand advice from experts, and are making connections to potential investors, board members, service providers, partners, customers, research and development collaborators, and other ASU units and programs. ASU's Office of Economic

Affairs (within the Office of the Vice President for Research and Economic Affairs) administers the ASU Technopolis program. For more information, visit www.asutechnopolis.org or call 480-727-9010.

24 Jennings Strouss Attorneys Selected For 2008 Best Lawyers In America®

Jennings Strouss & Salmon is pleased to announce that 24 of the firm's lawyers, more than half of the firm's equity members, have been selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America® 2008 published by Woodard/White, Inc. of Aiken, South Carolina.

The five lawyers new to this year's list are: Jay A. Fradkin [Medical Malpractice/Personal Injury Litigation], Carolyn J. Johnsen [Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law], Gary G. Keltner [Real Estate Law], Jack N. Rudel [Corporate Law] and Douglas G. Zimmerman [Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law].

Jennings Strouss attorneys who were selected for inclusion in the 2008 Best Lawyers in America® Edition are:

Phoenix: Gerald W. Alston [Alternative Dispute Resolution/Commercial Litigation/ International Arbitration/International Trade and Finance Law], John R. Christian [Tax Law/Trusts and Estates], Fred Cummings [Medical Malpractice Law/Personal Injury Litigation], John J. Egbert [Labor and Employment Law], George M. Esahak-Gage [ Real Estate Law], Lee E. Esch [Real Estate Law], Jay A. Fradkin [Medical Malpractice/Personal Injury Litigation], Douglas Gerlach [Antitrust Law], Carolyn J. Johnsen [Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law], Gary G. Keltner [Real Estate Law], Richard L. Lassen [Trusts and Estates], Stephen E. Lee [Tax Law], Bruce B. May [Real Estate Law], Michael J. O'Connor [Commercial Litigation/Personal Injury Litigation], Phillip A. Robbins [Personal Injury Litigation], Jack N. Rudel [Corporate Law], John G. Sestak, [Commercial Litigation], Brian N. Spector [Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law], Kenneth C. Sundlof, Jr. [Energy Law], and John C. West [Commercial Litigation/Health Care Law]

Scottsdale: Glenn S. Bacal [Intellectual Property Law], Richard Lieberman [Corporate Governance and Compliance Law/Mergers & Acquisitions Law/Securities Law] and Douglas G. Zimmerman [Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law].

Washington D.C.: Alan I. Robbins [Energy Law]

About Best Lawyers in America

Jennings Strouss Commits $100,000 To The University Of Arizona Law Commons Project

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon is pleased to announce that it has pledged $100,000 to the University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law in support of construction for their new Law Commons facility.

The Jennings Strouss pledge will be paid in installments of $10,000 over a ten year period. The first installment was presented to Assistant Dean for Development and External Relations, Janet Brauneis, in August 2007.

"It is with great pleasure that the firm supports the continued development and expansion of the James E. Rogers College of Law," says managing attorney, John C. West. "Several of our lawyers are alumni of the College and it is wonderful to give back to the place that has given us so many talented lawyers over the years."

In May 2007, the James E. Rogers College of Law began construction of the Law Commons to recreate and transform the main law building, renovate the three large outside classrooms, and expand and improve the courtyard. The project, scheduled for completion in the fall of 2008, will create new and improved student space and a state-of-the-art library, and will modernize the classroom environment.

"We are thrilled to receive such a generous contribution from Jennings Strouss," says Janet Brauneis. "The contribution ensures the continuation of the James E. Rogers College of Law as a competitive, top-ranking law school in the country."

J. Scott Rhodes Appointed To The Mesa Judicial Advisory Board

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C. is pleased to announce that J. Scott Rhodes, a Member (Partner) with the firm's Phoenix office, has been appointed to The Mesa Judicial Advisory Board. Rhodes, a Mesa resident, is one of seven members of the Advisory Board and was selected to serve in the position recommended by the State Bar of Arizona. The Board's duties are to recommend to the City Council the best qualified persons to become city magistrates, evaluate the performance of appointed magistrates, and advise the City Council on retaining them.

Rhodes is a transactional attorney and litigator whose practice focuses on legal ethics and the law of lawyering (including attorneys' fees disputes), energy and utilities law, local government law, and professional corporate governance and structure. He is Vice Chair of the State Bar of Arizona Ethics Committee and is member of the American Bar Association's Center for Professional Responsibility and the Association of Professional Responsibility Lawyers. He is included as a 2007 Southwest Super Lawyer in the category of Administrative Law.

Rhodes received his law degree from Arizona State University (1995) and his B.A. from Yale University (1980).

Brad Martorana Joins Jennings Strouss As Associate

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C. is pleased to announce that Brad Martorana has joined the firm as associate.

Martorana joins the firm's commercial group where he will assist the firm in expanding its capabilities to serve clients with business transaction needs in the areas of corporate, commercial, and real estate planning.

Prior to joining Jennings Strouss, Martorana practiced commercial lending and leasing law at a large firm in Baltimore, Maryland, where he represented national banks and finance companies in middle-market commercial loans and leases. Martorana is also a Certified Public Accountant and has practical business experience at one of the "big four" accounting firms, where his clients included a national transportation company and private real estate development and management companies.

Martorana obtained his J.D. from the University of Maryland School of Law (2005), where he served as an Associate Articles Editor for The Business Lawyer and graduated from Georgetown University (2001) with an accounting and finance double major.

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C. is pleased to announce that former Director of Regulatory Affairs with the Midwest Independent Transmission System

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon is pleased to announce that on June 21, 2007, Fred Cummings and Carolyn Johnsen, Members (Partners) with the firm's Phoenix office, were inducted as Fellows into the Litigation Counsel of America (LCA).

Cummings is Chair of the firm's Litigation Department. He has extensive trial experience in the areas of health care, medical malpractice and medical products liability defense litigation and has significant experience in all aspects of complex commercial litigation. Cummings received his J.D. from Georgetown University, Law Center (1984) and his B.S.F.S., with honors, from Georgetown University (1980).

Johnsen serves as the only Arizona lawyer on the founding board of LCA and is Chair of the firm's Business Restructuring & Reorganization Department. As a commercial, bankruptcy, and restructuring attorney, litigator and appellate attorney, Johnsen has extensive experience in every aspect of commercial reorganizations, representing both debtors and creditors. She has several published decisions and has been a frequent speaker at state and national bankruptcy seminars. Johnsen received her J.D. from Texas Tech School of Law (1980) and her B.S. from Texas A&M University (1977).
The Litigation Counsel of America is a trial lawyer honorary society composed of less than one-half of one percent of American lawyers. Fellowship in the LCA is highly selective and by invitation only. Fellows are selected based upon effectiveness and accomplishment in litigation, both at the trial and appellate levels, and superior ethical reputation. The LCA is aggressively diverse in its composition. Established as a trial and appellate lawyer honorary society reflecting the American bar in the twenty-first century, the LCA represents the best in law among its membership.

Bradley J. Stevens Appointed Chair-Elect Of The State Bar Of Arizona Bankruptcy Section

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon is pleased to announce that Bradley J. Stevens, a Member (Partner) with the firm's Phoenix office, has been appointed Chair Elect of the State Bar of Arizona Bankruptcy Section. The purpose of the Section is to promote the objectives of the State Bar in the fields of bankruptcy, insolvency laws, debtor's rights, creditor's rights and related fields such as organizational, educational, and promotional activities and review of and comment on pending and existing legislation, rules and procedures.

Stevens is a bankruptcy attorney and litigator whose practice focuses on debt resolution and Chapter 11 practice. He represents committees, creditors, debtors and trustees, and handles bankruptcy litigation and collection matters, including foreclosures, replevins, fraudulent transfer actions, provisional remedies and other actions involving colle ction of secured and unsecured debt. He is a member of the Commercial Law League of America and the American Bankruptcy Institute.

Stevens received his J.D. from the University of Utah College of Law (1980) and his B.A. from the University of Utah (1976).

Eighteen Jennings Strouss Members Named As 2007 Southwest Super Lawyers

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon is pleased to announce that eighteen Members (Partners) were named as 2007 Southwest Super Lawyers by the publisher of Law & Politics.

Jennings Strouss lawyers listed in the 2007 edition include: Gerald "Buzz" Alston (Business Litigation), Glenn Bacal (Intellectual Property), John Christian (Tax), Richard Delo (Medical Liability), John Egbert (Employment & Labor), George Esahak-Gage (Real Estate), Lee Esch (Business/Corporate), Michael Flood (Insurance Coverage), Jay Fradkin (Medical Liability), Robert Hackett (Business/Corporate), Carolyn Johnsen (Bankruptcy &Creditor/Debtor Rights), Gary Keltner (Bankruptcy & Creditor/Debtor Rights), Bruce May (Real Estate), Michael Palumbo (Business Litigation), Scott Rhodes (Administrative Law), Philip Robbins (General Litigation), Brian Spector (Bankruptcy &Creditor/Debtor Rights), and John West (Health Care).

Carolyn Johnsen, a Member (Partner) with Jennings Strouss, was selected as one of the top 50 lawyers in Arizona. Johnsen is Chair of the firm's Business Restructuring & Reorganization Section. As a commercial, bankruptcy, and restructuring attorney, litigator and appellate attorney, Johnsen has extensive experience in every aspect of commercial reorganizations, representing both debtors and creditors. She has several published decisions and has been a frequent speaker at state and national bankruptcy seminars. Super Lawyers was first published in 1991 and can be found in more than 30 states. Super Lawyers is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey in which 18,000 ballots are sent to active lawyers in Arizona and New Mexico.

Law & Politics' research department examined and evaluated the background and experience of the candidates and made final selections based on firm size, highest point totals in each category. Only 5 percent of the total lawyers in Arizona are listed in Super Lawyers. Lawyers are not required or allowed to pay a fee to be listed in the publication.

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C. was founded in 1942 and currently has 90 attorneys serving business clients throughout Arizona, the Southwestern US and Washington, D.C.Jennings, Strouss & Salmon is pleased to announce that eighteen Members (Partners) were named as 2007 Southwest Super Lawyers by the publisher of Law & Politics.

Jennings Strouss Hosts ASU Science Policy Workshop

On June 13, 2007, Michael Crow, President of Arizona State University (ASU) visited the Washington, DC office of Jennings, Strouss & Salmon. He addressed 17 graduate students who are there attending the "Science Policy Workshop" sponsored by ASU's Center for Nanotechnology in Society (affiliated with the Consortium for Science, Policy and Outcomes (CSPO) in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences) in collaboration with the ASU Biodesign Institute. The Science Policy Workshop runs from June 3-16 and is the third of its kind offered by ASU. Jennings Strouss began hosting the two-week event on June 2nd with a reception on the roof of its 1700 Pennsylvania Avenue office that provides a panoramic view of the nation's capitol.

The two week workshop provides the science and engineering graduate students an opportunity to explore relationships among science, policy and societal outcomes. The students are exposed to a broad range of activities including a science fiction writing class, participation in a mock congressional hearing, meetings at the National Science Foundation, National Geographic, and National Building Museum; and enjoy lectures and with, among others, representatives of the Nuclear Waste Technical Review Board, FDA, EPA and the Office of Science and Technology Policy, directed by the Science Advisor to the President.

Joel Greene, Member of Jennings Strouss' Electric, Natural Gas and Utilities practice group, is the liaison for the event. Mr. Greene commented that, "given the nearly 65 year relationship between Jennings Strouss and ASU, it was only natural that we offer to provide ASU with accommodations for many of their visiting government lecturers during the course of the workshop". Frank Curci, a Member in the firm's Intellectual Property group is addressing the students about current issues affecting patent and other technology licensing. The workshop is co-led by Jamey Wetmore and Ira Bennett of the CSPO, and Rachel Levinson, Director, Government and Industry Liaison Office at the ASU Biodesign Institute.

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C. was founded in 1942 and currently has 90 attorneys serving business clients throughout Arizona, the Southwestern US and Washington, D.C.

Carolyn Johnsen Given Outstanding Achievement Award from the Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law

Carolyn Johnsen, a Member of Jennings Strouss, was chosen for her work as co-chair in establishing "Arizona Women Lawyers Honoring Justice O'Connor," a new fund to honor O'Connor through the ASU College of Law that now bears her name.

The fund will be used for scholarships and other programs chosen in consultation with Justice O'Connor. The fund is the beginning of a 50-state effort by the Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law to recognize the justice's legacy of judicial and community leadership.

"The project was an easy one to undertake as the opportunity to lead the effort to pay tribute to Justice O'Connor has truly been an honor," Johnsen says. "Justice O'Connor is an icon for women lawyers. ASU is a school that has had the vision to see Justice O'Connor as the national treasure that she is, and capture in the naming of the school what she represents, not just for women lawyers but for all lawyers."
Johnson credited the enthusiasm of Marilyn Seymann, associate dean of external affairs, and the college's dean, Patricia White, for the success of the project.

Jennings Strouss Obtains Summary Judgment in Rare Concurrent Use Proceeding for Atomic Comics, Inc.

On April 9, 2007, the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board granted a Motion for Summary Judgment filed by Jennings Strouss on behalf of its client Atomic Comics, Inc. in a concurrent use proceeding involving the mark Atomic Comics. This proceeding had been initiated by Atomic Comics Inc., in 2000 through prior counsel, but the matter had languished for five years until Jennings Strouss was hired.

In granting summary judgment, The Board ruled that Atomic Comics was entitled to a concurrent use registration for the mark ATOMIC COMICS for the entire United States except for the Commonwealth of Virginia, which is what Atomic Comics had been seeking. The Board ruled the there had been the required showing that Atomic Comics Inc was entitled to the registration.

Concurrent Use proceedings before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board have been described by a leading commentator as "rare as a traffic cop in Boston." Concurrent use registrations provide the registrant with exclusive rights in a designated part of the country, and exclude other parts where there may be a party claiming rights in the same or a similar mark.

Glenn Bacal, chair of the firm's Intellectual Property practice group, was the lead counsel for Atomic Comics, Inc. He was assisted by Steve Lawrence, senior intellectual property litigation associate and by Jamie Tuccio, intellectual property paralegal.

Mr. Bacal regularly represents clients before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board in regard to trademark application and registration matters. These proceedings usually involve oppositions or cancellations, or appeals from a decision of an examining attorney on an application.

Jennings Strouss and Grant Thornton Kick Off Technology Breakfast Series with Licensing Strategies

Jennings Strouss and Grant Thornton, a national accounting firm, are co-sponsoring a new "Technology Breakfast Series" which will feature periodic seminars addressing key legal and business issues impacting companies and research institutes in the high technology and biotechnology industries.

Frank X. Curci, a Jennings Strouss member (partner) in its Technology, Intellectual Property & Biotechnology practice groups, and Ron Epperson, a national leader of Grant Thornton's Intellectual Property Solutions group, will spearhead these seminars. Frank and Ron were the speakers in the first seminar of this Technology Breakfast Series, which was entitled "Licensing Technology" and was held on March 22nd. During the first seminar Mr. Curci discussed key legal and business issues that arise during a technology license arrangement. Mr. Curci noted that parties normally want to enter into a license arrangement for the purpose of "collaboratively commercializing the technology" and, therefore, "license transactions do not have to be highly adversarial." Mr. Epperson addressed the various ways of placing a value on technology. Attendees included top executives and general counsel from several of Arizona's leading technology and biotechnology companies and research institutes.

Please contact Katie Bien at Jennings Strouss 602.495.2711, for more information about the next lecture in the Technology Breakfast Series.

Click on the link below to view the presentation given at the March 22, 2007 seminar.

David W. Elston, Real Estate Lawyer and Sports Agent, Joins Jennings Strouss

David Elston joins Jennings Strouss where he focuses his practice on real estate transactions, corporate securities law and sports representation.

Mr. Elston has experience in many aspects of real property development, including master planned communities.

Mr. Elston is a Registered Agent with the Major League Baseball Players Association. He has represented over a dozen professional baseball players, negotiating over $50 million worth of guaranteed major league baseball contracts on their behalf. He recently finalized a $3.8 million, 1-year contract (with an Option Salary of $4.3 million for 2008 which will can automatically vest based on 400 plate appearances), for Jose Valentin, a second baseman with the New York Mets.

Mr. Elston received his Juris Doctor from the University of Toledo, College of Law, graduating cum laude, and graduated from Ohio State University with a degree in Business Administration.

Kathryn L. Busby Joins Jennings Strouss and Brings with Her Years of Experience in Health Care

Kathryn L. Busby has joined Jennings Strouss as Of Counsel with extensive experience in the health care and health insurance industries. Prior to her present role, she served as an executive, compliance officer and general counsel for a large health plan with AHCCCS (Medicaid), Medicare, and commercial health insurance products.

Ms. Busby has practiced in Arizona for over twenty-five years and represented various entities in a variety of health care contracting and regulatory compliance issues, and governmental agency and legislative relations. Her practice specializes in Medicaid, Medicare, commercial health insurance; health care provider regulation, contracting and licensing, and related health care issues.

"Kathy brings years of experience in health care regulatory, Department of Insurance and AHCCCS matters to the firm, and greatly expands our capabilities in those areas. She is highly respected within the health care law community and we are pleased to make this affiliation with her," says John C. West, Managing Attorney for Jennings Strouss.

She received her J.D. from Arizona State University, College of Law graduating cum laude and a B.A. from Georgetown University graduating magna cum laude.

Elizabeth B. Teuwen and Debra D. Roby Elected Members (Partners) of Jennings Strouss in Washington, D.C. Office

Elizabeth B. Teuwen is a Member (Partner) in the Firm's Energy and Utilities practice with experience in the electric, natural gas and hydroelectric sectors of the energy industry. She represents municipal entities and rural electric cooperatives before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and in related court proceedings. Ms. Teuwen also counsels clients on energy and natural gas contracts, power plant construction, hydroelectric licensing and compliance matters, and the development and implementation of Regional Transmission Organizations. Ms. Teuwen is a 1999 graduate of the Georgetown University Law Center.

Debra D. Roby is a Member (Partner) of the Firm's Energy and Utilities practice group in our Washington DC Office. Her practice focuses on the electric and hydroelectric sectors of the energy industry. She has experience in litigation as well as administrative proceedings before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. She counsels municipal and rural electric cooperatives on matters including transmission and generation, electric restructuring and energy markets, Regional Transmission Organizations, the implementation of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, and hydroelectric licensing and compliance matters. Ms. Roby received her J.D. from George Mason University School of Law in 2000.

"Elizabeth and Debra joined the firm in 2005 as associates in our Washington, D.C. office and since that time have demonstrated a high quality of legal skill, teamwork and support for the firm's Electric, Natural Gas & Utilities Practice Group. Their skill and commitment have greatly enhanced this firm, says John West, Managing Attorney at Jennings Strouss.

Jennings Strouss Has 19 Attorneys Selected by Their Peers for Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America®

We are very pleased to announce that Fredrick M. Cummings [Medical Malpractice Law], Gordon Lewis [Education Law] both in our Phoenix office, Richard Lieberman in our Scottsdale office, [Corporate Governance and Compliance Law and Securities Law], and Alan I. Robbins in our Washington, DC Office [Energy Law], have been added to Jennings Strouss' roster of attorneys selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America® 2007 (©2007 by Woodard/White, Inc. of Aiken, S.C.).

With the Best Lawyers 2007 edition, Jennings Strouss has 24% of its attorneys selected for the Best Lawyer distinction. This is outstanding for a firm of our size.

The previous attorneys selected include: Gerald W. Alston [Commercial Litigation/International Trade and Finance Law], Glenn S. Bacal [Intellectual Property Law], Glen J. Carter [Energy Law], John R. Christian [Tax Law / Trusts and Estates], John J. Egbert [Labor and Employment Law], George M. Esahak-Gage [Environment Law / Real Estate Law], Lee E. Esch [Real Estate Law], Douglas Gerlach [Antitrust Law], Richard L. Lassen [Trusts and Estates], Stephen E. Lee [Tax Law], Bruce B. May [Real Estate Law], Michael J. O'Connor [Commercial Litigation], Philip A. Robbins [Personal Injury Litigation], John G. Sestak, Jr. [Commercial Litigation], Brian N. Spector [Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law], Kenneth C. Sundlof, Jr. [Energy Law], and John C. West [Health Care Law].

The range of Jennings Strouss attorneys selected for this honor and chosen in a broad spectrum of practice areas, demonstrates the full service capabilities of our firm.

Nominees are chosen for inclusion based solely on an extensive confidential interview process of attorneys who concentrate in those fields of law. Best Lawyers conducted over 1.8 million peer-based interviews in compiling this years list of honorees.

Hattie Babbitt Joins Jennings Strouss

Harriet C. Babbitt, former US Ambassador to the Organization of American States (OAS), former Deputy Administrator of the US Agency for International Development, and an accomplished attorney in private and public service, has joined Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, PLC in its Washington, DC office.

Ms. Babbitt, informally known as Hattie, has deep roots in Arizona and a distinguished career in private and public service. "We are truly honored that Hattie has joined Jennings Strouss," said John C. West, Managing Attorney. "Hattie's unique experience and broad connections in both Washington DC and the international arena will provide our clients with unparalleled access to global resources. I think they will be impressed with the doors Hattie will be able to open for them."

Strong International Background

In her capacity as Permanent Representative to the OAS, (1993-1997), Ambassador Babbitt chaired a number of key OAS bodies, including the committee that monitored compliance of the embargo against the military regime in Haiti, the OAS Permanent Council, and the committee that coordinates the organization's implementation of initiatives endorsed by hemispheric leaders at the Summit of the Americas.

Most recently, Ms. Babbitt served as the Senior Vice President of Hunt Alternatives Fund, which advances innovative and inclusive approaches to social change at local, national, and global levels.

Ms. Babbitt serves as a director of the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs (NDI). As chair of NDI's Latin American and Caribbean Committee, she earned a reputation as a widely-respected electoral expert, observer and facilitator. A fluent Spanish speaker, Ambassador Babbitt participated in democratic initiatives in Mexico, Colombia, Chile, Guatemala, Venezuela, Nicaragua and Paraguay, as well as in the Middle East and Central Europe.

She is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, a member of the Middle East and Latin American Committees for the National Democratic Institute, Vice-Chair for the Executive Board of the American Bar Association-Central European and Eurasian Legal Initiative, (ABA-CEELI), on the Board of Directors of the World Resources Institute (WRI), and member of the International Women's Forum.

Strong Arizona Ties

Ms. Babbitt graduated from the the Sandra Day O'Connor Law School at Arizona State University and was an attorney with Robbins & Green (recently joined with Jennings Strouss) and held a number of legal and financial posts in Arizona. She was a director of Citibank (Arizona) and a member of the Board of Advisors of U.S. West Telephone Company. Ms. Babbitt is married to Bruce Babbitt, former Secretary of the Interior and former Governor of the State of Arizona.

On Joining Jennings Strouss

Ms. Babbitt will practice international law for Jennings Strouss, serving the firm's world-wide clientele in the U.S. and abroad. She will be available for matters involving the global economy, resources and energy, with a special focus on Latin America. "I'm absolutely thrilled to be working with such a talented group of Jennings Strouss lawyers in Arizona and here in DC," she said. "And I look forward to working on behalf of our clients from Arizona to DC to the international community."

Jennings Strouss and Robbins & Green Announce Merger

Jennings Strouss & Salmon and Robbins & Green will fulfill mutual strategic goals to expand and enhance their respective and complementary practice areas by combining the two firms.

Robbins & Green, a 33-year-old Valley-based law firm founded by Philip A. Robbins in 1973, is expected to merge into Jennings Strouss effective June 1, 2006. Once complete, up to 16 attorneys, as well as associated support staff from Robbins & Green, will move into the Jennings Strouss offices in the Collier Center building in downtown Phoenix. This will bring the total number of Jennings Strouss attorneys to more than 100.

The two firms opened discussions in January.

"Robbins & Green is a well-established, highly respected firm that we felt had many of the attributes of Jennings Strouss in terms of culture, capabilities and the quality of attorneys," said John C. West, Jennings Strouss' Managing Attorney. "This merger fulfills part of our growth strategy by adding to all of our core commercial practice areas. Robbins & Green has several very experienced business attorneys and litigators, like Phil Robbins who is among the most respected trial lawyers in the industry, not only in Arizona but across the nation."

Robbins, who is a member of the American College of Trial Lawyers, is currently Board Chair of the National Law Center for Inter-American Free Trade, and is a member of the NAFTA Advisory Commission on Private Commercial Disputes. He has chaired the American College of Trial Lawyers' International Committee. He has been practicing law in Arizona since 1957 and is listed in the Best Lawyers in America®.

"Many of our lawyers have known Robbins & Green attorneys for years as both co-counsel and as respected adversaries," West said. "We look forward to working together on the same team.

"Robbins & Green Director, Peter Sorensen, said that his firm "has been looking to expand our client base and our practice areas to better serve our existing clients. We approached Jennings Strouss because they have a fine reputation for quality lawyering and a long standing client base that we thought would complement ours."

Jennings Strouss has offices in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Arrowhead and Washington, D.C. Jennings Strouss alumni include Arizona Senator John Kyl, former Arizona Supreme Court Chief Justice Charles E. "Bud" Jones, and United States District Court Judge Frederick Martone. The firm was founded in Arizona in 1942 and focuses on litigation, healthcare, corporate business, intellectual property, energy and utilities, real estate and employment law.

Carolyn J. Johnsen Selected for Phoenix Business Journal's "Leading Lawyers 2006"

Carolyn J. Johnsen was selected by the Phoenix Business Journal for their Leading Lawyers program by a panel of judges for her contributions to the legal industry and the community.

Sixteen Jennings Strouss Attorneys Selected for 2005-2006 Best Lawyers in America®

Jennings, Strouss & Salmon is very pleased to announce that John J. Egbert [Labor and Employement Law], Richard L. Lassen [Trusts and Estates], and John G. Sestak, Jr. [Commercial Litigation], have been selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America® 2006 (Copyright 2005 by Woodard/White, Inc. of Aiken, S.C.).

Thirteen JSS Attorneys were included for the 2005-2006 Best Lawyers in America®, Gerald W. Alston [Commercial Litigation], Glenn S. Bacal [Intellectual Property Law], Glen J. Carter [Energy Law], John R. Christian [Tax Law / Trusts and Estates], George M. Esahak-Gage [ Environmental Law / Real Estate Law], Lee E. Esch [Real Estate Law], Douglas Gerlach [Antitrust Law], Stephen E. Lee [Tax Law], Bruce B. May [Real Estate Law], Michael J. O'Connor [Commercial Litigation], Brian N. Spector [Bankruptcy and Creditor-Debtor Rights Law], Kenneth Sundlof, Jr. [Energy Law], and John C. West [Health Care Law].

For more than two decades, Best Lawyers has been regarded-by both the legal profession and the public-as the definitive guide to legal excellence in the United States. Lawyers are chosen for inclusion based solely on a vote of their peers. Listings cannot be bought, and no purchase is required to be included. In this regard, Best Lawyers remains the gold standard of reliability and integrity in lawyer ratings. To ensure the continued rigor of the selection process, lawyers are urged to use only their highest standards when voting, and to evaluate each attorney based only on his or her individual merits.

Joel Greene, a Founding Partner in our D.C. Office, Honored by International District Energy Association, (IDEA)

Joel L. Greene, a partner who was instrumental in establishing the firm's Washington, D.C. office, received the International District Energy Association's (IDEA's) prestigious "Norman R. Taylor" award June 28 at the organization's 96th Annual Conference & Trade Show in St. Paul, Minnesota. This award is the highest distinction IDEA can confer on an individual, recognizing that person's lifetime achievements and contributions to the district energy and combined heat and power industry. Greene has been an IDEA member for 11 years. He served as IDEA's chair from 2003-2004, received IDEA's Chairman's Award in 2000 and 2001, and was honored with IDEA's Unsung Hero Award in 2002.

IDEA Chairman Anders Rydaker, president of District Energy St. Paul Inc., presented the award: "Joel Greene has been an energetic and forceful agent for positive change during his six years on the board of IDEA. He started by organizing a fuels forum to help members understand the complexity of fuel commodities. He then helped reorganize our association, revise our by-laws and much, much more. As chair, he began the initiative to open IDEA's doors to a broader world and welcome involvement from our colleagues and friends from around the globe. Through it all, he did it with grace, dignity and an obvious commitment to the best interests of our organization."

The award's namesake, Norman R. Taylor, who served with great distinction, was IDEA's president from 1977 - 1978, and executive director from 1980 until he passed away in 1986.

Mr. Greene had been in private law practice in the Washington, D.C., area since 1974, before joining Jennings Strouss in 2004. He assists clients in energy regulatory matters, legal strategic planning, contract negotiations and advocacy before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, state commissions and courts.

With headquarters in Boston, Mass., the 800-member IDEA comprises district heating and cooling executives, managers, engineers, consultants and equipment suppliers from 12 countries. Its core mission is to support the growth and utilization of district energy as a means to conserve fuel and increase energy efficiency to improve the global environment. For more on IDEA, go to www.districtenergy.org.

Michael J. O'Connor - Best of Bar, 2005

Michael J. O'Connor was selected by his peers for being among the Best of the Bar in the Valley by The Business Journal for business litigation. Please see the attached document for more detailed information.

Carolyn J. Johnsen - Best of Bar, 2005

Carolyn J. Johnsen was selected by a body of her peers to be among the Best of the Bar in the Valley in her category of Bankruptcy. This selection first appeared in The Business Journal's Best of the Bar section. Please see attached document for more information.

15 Jennings Strouss Attorneys Selected for Best Lawyers in America® 2005-2006

15 lawyers from Jennings, Strouss & Salmon were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2005-2006 (Copyright 2004 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.). They are: Gerald W. Alston, Glenn S. Bacal, Chris Bode, David J. Cantelme, Glenn J. Carter, John R. Christian, George M. Esahak-Gage, Lee E. Esch, Douglas Gerlach, Stephen E. Lee, Bruce B. May, Michael J. O'Connor, Brian N. Spector, Kenneth C. Sundlof, Jr., and John C. West.

The 2005-2006 edition is the eleventh edition of The Best Lawyers in America. Since its inception in 1983, Best Lawyers has become universally regarded as the definitive guide to legal excellence in the United States. Because Best Lawyers is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey in which 16,000 leading attorneys throughout the country cast more than a half million votes on the legal abilities of other lawyers in their specialties, and because lawyers are not required or allowed to pay a fee to be listed, inclusion in Best Lawyers is considered a singular honor. Corporate Counsel magazine has called Best Lawyers "the most respected referral list of attorneys in practice."

Scott Rhodes Receives Title of "Knight of the Order of French National Merit"

Scott Rhodes, a member (partner) of the law firm of Jennings, Strouss & Salmon, P.L.C. and a resident of Mesa will be given the title of Chevalier de l'Ordre du Mérite National Français (translated: Knight of the Order of French National Merit) at a ceremony on Wednesday, July 28th. The distinction stems from a French Presidential decree which allows the French government to, in instances of exceptional distinguished service, bestow the title of Knight on an individual in the private sector. The award will be presented to Mr. Rhodes by Jean-Luc Sibiude, Consul General of France.

Mr. Rhodes served as the Acting Honorary Consul for France from 2001 to 2003. He also was appointed by the French Ambassdor to the United States, Jean-David Levitte, to serve on an advisory committee for the French Government. French Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin formed the committee to focus on increasing American commercial activities in France. There are 14 people on the committee, which meets regularly at the ambassador's home in Washington, D.C. Mr. Rhodes is the only representative from Arizona and the Southwest. He is highly knowledgeable of American and French business practices. Prior to joining Jennings, Strouss, he owned and operated his own business in Paris for nine years.

In addition to being a litigation and transactional attorney, Mr. Rhodes serves on the Mesa 2025: Financing the Future Citizen Committee, whose purpose is to review the entire fiscal structure of the City of Mesa and recommend revenue and spending priorities to the City Council for financing future growth and reaching quality of life objectives. Mr. Rhodes serves on the Board of the Save the Family Foundation of Arizona and the Mesa Community Action Network Board, of which he was Chairperson. Mr. Rhodes is also a Board member and Executive Committee Member of Arizona Town Hall and a member of the State Bar of Arizona Ethics Committee. Mr. Rhodes is the son of former Arizona Congressman John J. Rhodes (1916-2003). Mr. Rhodes' wife, Adeline, was born and raised in France, and the couple's three children were all born in France.