WISHES ANSWERED: Featured are some of the 54 gifts and 17 gift cards donated to nine families by attorneys and staff at
Giordano, Halleran & Ciesla in Red Bank.
Giordano, Halleran & Ciesla in Red Bank went digital in 2020 for its seventh annual “Giving Tree” program to provide holiday gifts to Monmouth County domestic and sexual violence survivors. The Amanda’s Easel project, run by the nonprofit 180 Turning Lives Around Inc. of Hazlet, is a creative arts therapy program that helps children ages 4-14 and family members to heal. Participants are encouraged to express their emotions through art, play and music therapy in a nurturing environment. The program also focuses on self-esteem, coping skills and parent-child communication. Giordano Halleran donated some 54 gifts and 17 gift cards to nine families, according to the firm’s announcement. “Sadly, as a result of the pandemic, there have been a number of news articles indicating that domestic abuse is on the rise and so, we are particularly glad that Giordano, Halleran can help brighten the holidays of these families,” said partner Melissa V. Skrocki, who co-chairs the project with coworker Margie Nimbley. In previous years, the firm has featured a tree and a menorah in the office with tags bearing the wish list of requested gifts. This year, with most working from home, the firm turned to a website to create a virtual “Giving Tree.” Lawyers and staff wrote in their names next to the requested gifts and fulfilled wishes by delivering gifts to the office before Nimbley arranged for delivery to 180 Turning Lives Around. The gifts included blankets, Legos and other toys, jewelry, makeup, video games, clothing, and kitchen items, the firm noted.
Eric Alvarez Appointed to Somerset County Business Partnership Board of Directors
Eric Alvarez
Eric Alvarez, an associate at Norris McLaughlin in Bridgewater, was appointed to the board of directors of the Somerset County Business Partnership, where he will replace James H. Laskey, a firm partner who served on the board for more than 20 years, including as its chairperson. Laskey said in a statement that Alvarez ”is fully-equipped with the skill set and ultimate passion for his community needed for his voice to be an effective contribution to this group of outstanding business leaders. It has been my pleasure to serve the Partnership, and I look forward to seeing what the next generation will bring to the table.” Alvarez said in a statement: “To follow in Jim’s footsteps is an honor. Being a long-time resident in Somerset County and actively involved in all it has to offer, this opportunity feels like the natural choice for me, and I’m excited to be a
James H. Laskey [Photo credit: Lynn Goodwin.]
part of the bigger picture, here, in its business community.” The business organization links leaders in business, private sectors, nonprofit entities, educational institutions, and government. It addresses issues involving economic and community development, small business, the workforce, tourism and cultural arts, public affairs, and the networking and educational needs of its members. Nominees for the board were presented to the organization’s nomination committee and then to the executive board, after which they were approved by all members. Alvarez’s appointment was announced on Dec. 15 at the virtual SCBP annual meeting and awards ceremony. In his practice, Alvarez handles complex commercial litigation in state and federal court, representing businesses, from closely-held partnerships to international corporations, as well as individuals. He also is a member of Norris McLaughlin’s cannabis law group. He received his J.D. from Seton Hall University School of Law in 2013 and his B.A. from Villanova University in 2009. He is a resident of Somerset County and is active in the local bar association.
