Thanksgiving 2020: The year has certainly left much to be desired for so many of us. But I hope everyone can take a moment this week to slow down, relax a bit, and find some silver lining to be thankful for.

That’s what I’m doing right now. As I write this, I’m sitting on the back deck of a cabin that my wife and I are renting in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia looking at a distant mountain and colorful foliage. My Golden Retriever’s doing the same. And we’re reflecting on things we are thankful about.

Of course, there is much to be thankful for. But I’m particularly thankful for the opportunity to practice with such an awesome Appellate Bar and to Chair this outstanding Section. I’m also thankful for Dorothy Easley, Ceci Berman, Duane Daiker, and Kristin Norse, without whom I would probably not have become as involved in the Section and certainly not Chair. Eight or so years ago, Dorothy was a fee expert in one of my appeals and encouraged me to attend a Section meeting. My first one was at one of the Appellate Judges Conferences in Sanibel, Florida where I met many of you because Ceci took the time to introduce me to other Section members. Before long, I was hooked! After chairing the telephonic CLE committee, Duane talked me into taking over as Chair of the CLE Committee. Finally, years later, Kristin invited me to become an officer. And here we are today!

Thank you all for being members of this Section and helping make this Section one of the best in the Bar. I wish you and yours a Happy Thanksgiving!