The grip of law school second semester malaise has hit full force. Symptoms include the sluggish ability to read property, falling asleep over torts, and headaches induced by constitutional law opinions that last 30 pages. The cure is possibly spring break or sleeping for 24 hours, probably both. I knew when the malaise hit. It was a beautiful weekend, where I spent more time in the library slugging through cases on extraterritoriality than doing anything else. As I sat in that back corner, I could feel the will to work being sucked out of me.
Feeding this second semester funk is a whole slate of classes that are even more complicated than last. Reading property feels like I am learning French all over again. No matter how hard I try, I feel terminally confused by a condition subsequent and a condition precedent. Mostly, I am left with the feeling that I should never own property or even advise on property problems. Seriously, who would want a lawyer who can’t tell a fee simple from a fee tail?
The fog of my second semester sickness has clouded my thinking. I try to fight the urge to slack. I try to fight that niggling in the back of my brain that I have this law school figured out. And that thought is probably my worst enemy right now. I know my knack for bad short cuts and procrastination will be my undoing. I need to keep briefing, to keep reading. I am not even terrified of getting called on in Torts any more. I have lost my fear of failure and that is a bad thing.
I really do not have this whole law school thing figured out. Torts teaches me that every Tuesday and Thursday. Who knew it would be important whether or not the host served beer at a party. Or whether a girl bitten by a dog was supervised. But I guess that is just law school for you. It is the smallest detail that changes everything. The moment you get the littlest grip on what you should be doing to find that small idea, bam, it finds a new way to punch you in the face.
Right now, I am just trying to ward off this second semester funk long enough to bang out my appellate brief and get to spring break. Hopefully, I can come out of spring break cured of this illness. I need to start in March fresh for the final sprint toward finals.

This Thanksgiving break, I, like many of you, flew home to spend time with family and friends. After being bombarded by the endless media uproar and hype regarding the TSA’s new body imaging scanners and pat-down procedures, I half-expected to witness abuses of power, Big Brother, and the rise of a police state in front of my very eyes. I went through the scanner, posed with my arms above the head, and waited for the image to be processed by a TSA officer in a walled-off location not visible to my fellow passengers. And that was it. Would I prefer to have not had some unknown TSA worker see a creepy, plasma-like image of my body? Sure. But is it a reason to revolt? Far from it.

The metal detectors we are all accustomed to in airports were cutting-edge technology…in the 1960’s. Times have changed in the 50-or-so years since they were invented, as have the threats against this country, and our technological capabilities must change to meet those threats. The Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) machines being placed in airports around the country represent the latest advance in security technology by being able to detect metallic items as well as non-metallic substances, including liquids, powders, and gels like those used in the attempted Christmas Day bombing last year. Is this technology perfect? Of course not, no technology is. But it drastically increases the probability of detecting dangerous materials and substantially reduces the remaining options for terrorists. By limiting those options, it forces those who wish to harm us to resort to less reliable methods or give up downing planes all together.

Further, there are some privacy safeguards to minimize the intrusion. Contrary to popular belief, the imaging technology used cannot save or transmit the images. A rumor began online claiming that images that had been saved by the TSA had been posted online, but some fact-checking proved that the images were actually from a different technology used by the U.S. Marshalls, who do save images. The images are also not visible by the public, nor seen by any officer who sees you in person. And while there have been some abuses and embarrassments, the answer is better training and personnel, not scrapping new technological advances.

Some believe that we can avoid the use of these new technologies by adopting the Israeli-method of profiling. Moral issues aside, that simply will not work in our situation. Bin-Laden has recruited terrorists from over 20 different countries, including non-Arab states like Nigeria and Thailand, making such a “profile” hopelessly overbroad. Further, problems of scale exist: Israel has 7 airports servicing 9 million travelers annually, compared to America’s more than 400 airports and 800 million travelers annually.

Think of it this way: what would the public response be if a terrorist smuggled non-metallic bomb-making materials onto a plane and successfully detonated a makeshift device, killing everyone on board? And how would we feel if we learned that the body imaging scanners could have detected the explosive materials and prevented an atrocity from occurring? The new TSA policies are not perfect. They are more intrusive. But they are a single, yet vital, component of a comprehensive counterterrorism strategy and, given the alternatives, the best option we currently have.

Well , well, well.  Looks like it’s another school year, which means Robert and Hunter are back in the ‘Po, getting VIP treatment in Passtimes and on first name terms with the Greek patrons of Jimmy’s.  Word on the street is that the masses have been eagerly anticipating the return of The Forum’s most legendary literary scholars.  Wait no more peasant 1L’s, decent 2L’s and extraordinarily superior 3L’s.  After holding a 6 hour press conference special at the Popcorn Festival hosted by our very own Bryce Drew, both Hunter and I decided to take out signing bonuses, consisting of first servings of any meals hosted at the law school, and have come back to bless you clowns with some truth.

While sipping on an adult beverage at my favorite watering hole, I began to think of what I should write about for this article.  Should it be the various pennant races, which never mattered to me anyway, or should it be about college football, a subject always involved before 67% of altercations between men aged 18-25?  But then it hit me!  What better sport to write about then the sport played by seemingly every 26 year old male who fancies himself a hybrid mix of Mel Kiper, Shannon Sharpe, and Cris Collingsworth all rolled into an unhealthy mass of worthless football knowledge.  Yep!  You guessed it!  It’s fantasy football season!  At a time where teams cease to matter, only players and matchups remain. So I decided to bless all you wanna be fantasy football strategists with some basic rules, regulations and tidbits, that if utilized correctly, will guarantee a 7^th place spot in a 10 team league.

The first thing you want to focus on is the creation of a team name.  There is nothing worse than playing some clown in Week 6 whose team name is Monsters, Bruisers or some other type of generic dribble. You will not be taken seriously in fantasy football if you cannot take the time to develop a witty team name.  Dedication is everything, people, so try showing some.  If you’re a stocky African-American male, such as myself, then I suggest going with a team name that plays to your strengths.  For instance, team names that reference Rick Ross, CeeLo Green or Uncle Phil all would work in this scenario.

Second, be sure to have at least 3 people in your league who know absolutely nothing about drafting a fantasy football team.  Nothing brings me more joy than having the number 4 pick and watching some absolute clowns pick Joseph Addai, Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark at 1, 2 and 3 which leads me to my 3^rd point.

Third, never, and I mean NEVER, pick a fantasy football team based on the team you root for in real life unless that team is either the NFC or AFC Pro Bowl teams.  I distinctly remember playing in a league last year where one unfortunate fella (who I won’t name here) literally had 5 Eagle players on his roster. Ridiculous.  Besides the simple fact that there will be one week that you will absolutely not win, you just look like a loyal fool.

Fourth, be aware of the waiver wire hawk in your league and exploit him.  The waiver wire hawk is that one person in your league who adds and drops more than Debbie Gleason.  Some insignificant player has a decent week and this guy is all over the waiver wire trying to pick him up.  You want this guy in your league because nine times out of ten he is probably dropping a better player than he is picking up.  How do you figure out who this is?  Well, if this person has 20-plus roster moves by Week , then it’s probably him.

Fifth, be prepared for that one player you really want to depend on to never show up.  This year’s candidate includes Maurice Jones-Drew, Mike Sims-Walker, Michael Crabtree and Dwane Bowe.  No need in getting frustrated because in the back of your mind you kinda saw this coming.  Suck it up and grind it out.

And lastly, be prepared to spend ridiculous amounts of time staring at your roster, player matchups and the waiver wire.  This especially holds true on Sunday and Monday when you watch every game as if your watching will somehow make your players score a couple TD’s.  And let’s not forget the ridiculous calculations we come up with that will lead your team to victory.  As if anyone believes that your St. Louis defense will get you 20 points against the Saints.  Give it up buddy.

As I look at my team, Big Meech, stacked to the ceiling with fantasy football talent I honestly feel sorry for anyone who doesn’t take heed to my rules, regulations and tidbits.  As a one time 8^th place finisher I think my credentials speak for themselves.  I hope you’re  listening.

Hello Valpo Law!

After a long, relaxing summer, your Student Bar Association is ready for another great year with many exciting events planned for the year and the SBA is looking forward to all of them.  The first series of events the SBA has planned for this year includes VU Day of Caring (September 18), the Cardozo Cup (October 1), and the Halloween Party (October 30).  Later in the year will feature the Health and Wellness Fair, Law Week, and Barristers.

The SBA is once again making changes this year.  We have added a new Executive Board position: the Student Organization Administrator.  This position will allow the SBA to fully assist Student Organizations to reach their full potential.  The SOA will be the contact person for the Organizations and help them through the complexities of the Law School.

The SBA is transitioning from a party planning student council to that of a pseudo state bar organization where that we are primarily working with the students to better their time here and also provide them with the necessary tools to be able to find jobs upon graduation (for those 3Ls).  For the 1Ls and 2Ls, the SBA will provide networking opportunities through support of student organizations’ events and programs so they will have the ability to find jobs later.

We also now have the tools we need to be a successful SBA. We have a fun office, a great officer and representative corps, a new website, and a new officer position to work directly with student organizations. Throughout this year, we will be streamlining process and creating information packets for students, faculty, and deans so they can know and see what we have accomplished and where we are going.

The SBA is looking forward to helping every one of you – all you need to do is ask.  Your feedback will help up continue to strive for the highest.  On behalf of the Valpo Law SBA, good luck with everything you do this year and do not hesitate to stop in the SBA office and let us know what we can do for you.

The purpose of this organization is to acquire, develop, and apply knowledge in the areas of business and law.  Our mission is to provide law students with access to alumni who are working in the area of business law and with access to information concerning business law courses, programs and information regarding the study of business law and future careers.  The Society offers a venue for discussion of relevant and current issues as they arise in the field of business law.  Through our events, meetings, and conferences, we not only plan to expound in areas of business law but plan to grow in areas such as professionalism, networking, and leadership qualities in the business world.

Our organization has dedicated itself to providing extensive benefits to BLS members each semester, including: (1)  Education on various aspects of business and corporate law;  and (2) Networking opportunities with transactional and litigation attorneys working within the field of business and corporate law, as well as corporate counsel and local business persons.

Business Law Society has some exciting and educational events coming up including an etiquette dinner to educate young lawyers on how to eat, drink, and dress professionally; a financial planner who will give advice on planning for your financial future; and a fashion show to learn how to dress for success in the work world.

Please contact our president: chelsey.sarason@valpo.edu, vice president: nataly.carrasco@valpo.edu, treasurer: shantae.landingham@valpo.edu  or our secretary: michelle.teems@valpo.edu for more information.  We would be more than happy to answer questions or accept suggestions to ensure this year is a success.

Property Law Society was created to provide an avenue for students interested in Real Property issues to continue their interest within their time at the law school.  Student members build fellowship among other interested students.  They also provide real property service opportunities within the community, educational opportunities outside of the classroom, and networking opportunities by establishing relationships with attorneys and legal professionals in the region.

Our first meeting will be held Thursday, September 16, during Chapel Break and our first event will be on Saturday, September 18 where on the Day of Caring, we will help Housing Opportunities with property improvements.  Additionally, our Annual Charity Golf Outing (4-Man Scramble) will be Saturday, October 9 at Noon at “The Brassie” in Chesterton.  Costs per student are $40 and per attorney are $50 – sign ups begin September 20 during Chapel Break or you can contact valpopropertylawsociety@gmail.com for tickets or more information.

Seeking Justice With the Love of God-Luke 11:42

Greetings! It is with great pleasure and honor that I am writing this article. My name is Wilneeda Emmanuel and I am the president of the Christian Legal Society for the 2010-2011 academic year. This year CLS will be celebrating thirty-five years at Valparaiso University School of Law and next year the national chapter of CLS will be celebrating fifty years. The executive board has a lot of activities planned for the school year and we welcome and extend an invitation to everyone to attend our weekly bible studies and events. The weekly bible studies take place every Wednesday from 5-6pm in room 155 (Pelzer).

OUR PURPOSE

Seeking Justice with the Love of God- Luke 11:42

OUR VISION

A growing nationwide fellowship of Christian lawyers and law students
who act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.

~ Micah 6:8; Matthew 23:23 ~

OUR MISSION

To inspire, encourage, and equip lawyers and law students,
both individually and in community,
to proclaim, love and serve Jesus Christ
through the study and practice of law,
the provision of legal assistance to the poor,
and the defense of religious freedom & sanctity of human life.

“Jus Vitae is Latin for “the Law of Life” or “the Right to Life.”  Jus Vitae is a national law reform organization founded at Valparaiso University.  Its members use their professional skills to protect the dependent and disabled against all forms of violence including abortion, infanticide, and the involuntary killing of the sick or aged.  Its ultimate aim is equal protection and civil rights for every human being.

As a group, Jus Vitae offers many opportunities for the individual to be effective in advancing the fundamental constitutional right to life and equal protection for all.  Many of these opportunities can be used towards the pro bono requirement and further prepare the student for an effective professional career in the service of justice.

VOX, Voices for Reproductive Freedom, promotes reproductive choice for women and men.  We advocate for comprehensive sexual education in the community, to ensure that all have access to resources to make informed choices.  This year, we plan to work with Planned Parenthood of Indiana to raise awareness on campus and in the Valparaiso community through a variety of new VOX events.  The 2010-2011 events will include a fundraiser for Planned Parenthood, a speaker on campus to discuss the current status of reproductive rights across the United States, and a few other interactive events.  VOX’s Executive Board this year comprises of: Nicole Cudiamat, Secretary; Jessica Whittamore, Treasurer; Brittany Heagney, Vice-President; and Heidi Duncan, President.  For more information or questions, please contact any member of the E-Board.

Christine Corral, Executive Director

Career Planning Center

It is my pleasure to welcome you back to the new academic year and a new recruiting season.  I am pleased to report that the CPC is now fully staffed and is even more committed to delivering high quality, personal service to our students.

By now most 2L and 3L students have received a personal telephone call from a CPC staff member.  The purpose of these calls has been to have direct contact with each student to ensure they were prepared for the 2010-2011 recruiting season.  Specifically to update Strategy recruiting profiles, job search documents, and answer any recruiting-related questions.  If you have not received your call yet, know that one is coming.  Our goal is to have the personal calls completed by mid-September.

To further assist our 2L and 3L students in preparing for the 2010-2011 recruiting season, the CPC staff has planned specific orientations for these groups. The schedule for these orientations along with a brief outline of their content follows:

2L Orientation: September 15^th – 11:40am – 12:30pm (Stride Courtroom)

Be sure to attend this career planning information session tailored specifically for second year law students.  Topic discussed during this interactive session will include utilizing Strategy in your job search, experiential education opportunities, career conferences that you do not want to miss, and important information regarding the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam and bar examination.  A 2L Career Strategy Timeline will be provided to those that attend this session.

3L Orientation: September 15^th – 10-10:50am (Pelzer)

Be sure to attend this career planning information session tailored specifically for third year law students.  Topic discussed during this interactive session will include utilizing Strategy in your job search, experiential education opportunities, career conferences that you do not want to miss, and important information regarding the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam and bar examination.  A 3L Career Strategy Timeline will be provided to those that attend this session.

The CPC team encourages your participation in these informative sessions to help give you a competitive advantage in the marketplace.  You may register for these orientation sessions via Strategy (http://myinterfase.com/valpolaw/students)

Upon completion of the personal telephone calls to 2L and 3L students in mid-September, the CPC staff will begin a round of personal telephone calls to 1L students.  These telephone calls will carry a similar message, making a personal connection and will follow-up on many of the career planning activities during pre-orientation and orientation in which 1Ls have been engaged.  We hope your Strategy recruiting profiles and initial job search documents will be completed as you begin scheduling your 1L career advising appointments.

The CPC team will be visiting 1L Legal Research classes on Friday, October 22 to review the job search documents assignment with an emphasis on cover letters and resumes.

One of many other updates that I am excited to share is the creation of CPC Atrium Days as suggested by the members of the CPC Student Advisory Committee.  A CPC staff member and a CPC Student Advisory Committee member will team together to manage a table in the atrium twice each month.  During a CPC Atrium Day, students are encouraged to ask general questions about any CPC programs and services as well as to receive an updated calendar of recruiting and networking activities.  The September 2010 Atrium Days are September 7^th and September 22 (10:50-11:30am).  We hope to see you there!

Should you have any questions about your job search or need assistance with your Strategy account, please contact the Career Planning Center staff at (219) 465-7814 or careerplanning.law@valpo.edu.