❑ Cassin & Cassin LLP, a law firm specializing in real estate, real estate finance and trusts and estates, announced the hiring of Michele A. Luzio as Counsel effective immediately. Ms. Luzio serves as Co-Chair of the WWBA’s Real Property Committee. She is based in the firm’s Purchase, New York office. 

❑ Legal Services of the Hudson Valley (LSHV), the only provider of comprehensive civil legal services to those that cannot afford it in the seven counties of the lower and mid-Hudson Valley, was awarded a $1,200 grant by the Westchester Women’s Bar Association Foundation, Inc. The grant will support LSHV’s Housing Stability Program for Families in Westchester. 

❑ Congratulations to WWBA member Carol Swidler, Esq. who on October 18, 2018, received the Joseph F. Gagliardi Award for Excellence. The award recognizes outstanding non-judicial employees in the Ninth Judicial District for their out-standing service to the public and dedication to the administra-tion of justice. Ms. Swidler, who serves as Supervising Court Attorney-Referee in the Matrimonial Part of the Westchester Su-preme and County Courts, was selected as one of two recipients for this year’s Award. The Honorable Kathie E. Davidson, Ad-ministrative Judge, Ninth Judicial District presided over the cer-emony. Ms. Swidler was introduced by the Honorable Alan D. Scheinkman, Presiding Justice, Appellate Division, Second De-partment. 

Q: Why did you become a member of the Westchester Women’s Bar Association?

A: I became a member of the Westchester Women’s Bar Association for several reasons. 1) As a newly admitted attorney, I wanted to be a part of an organization that fosters professional growth and development for women in this profession; 2) I wanted to meet like-minded people to share my experiences with, have fun with, and likewise, learn from; 3) I wanted to get to know more people and step outside of my “comfort zone.”

Q: In which ways have you participated in the activities of the organization?

A: This year I was chosen to serve as a State Director for the WWBA and Co-Chair the Networking Committee. I have participated in past CLEs through the WWBA and am very much looking forward to an exciting year ahead.

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