Press Release

Community Service
 

November 2, 2002


The International Society of Primerus Lawfirms, a national organization created to recognize professionalism and excellence in the practice of law, nominated Thompson, O’Neil and VanderVeen, P.C., for its 2002 National Community Service Award.

In the nomination, Primerus reiterated the partners’ lifetime commitment to community service, including Dan O’Neil’s nine years of service on the City Planning Commission and George Thompson’s years of service to Community Mental Health and Goodwill of Northern Michigan, as well as his 15 years of dedication to creating a Hospitality House for Munson Hospital. Primerus also cited the firm’s support , through scheduling, staffing and the handling of pro bono cases, of the Third Level Legal Aid Clinic, under the leadership of John VanderVeen.

George Thompson has donated many hours to continuing education for lawyers over the past two decades. He has lectured or tutored lawyers on a voluntary basis for the Institute of Continuing Legal Education, the Michigan Trial Lawyers Association, the Association of County Road Commissions, the Michigan Lodging Association the Michigan Association of Cardiologists, and a number of other organizations. He also served on, and eventually chaired, the State Bar’s Committee on Civil Procedure.

Finally, the nomination noted the firm’s strong support of the “Rails to Trails” initiative, both through pro bono litigation and financial contributions; and the firm’s many contributions to numerous foundations and non-profit programs, particularly those benefiting youth sports, music and theater. In addition to sponsoring the latter activities financially, the partners in the firm have also coached numerous youth teams over the past decade.