The Gavel Fall 2018

From Left to Right: Brian Lee, Daniel Melendrez, Marika Mahone, Deputy Deeds, Nicole Owens, Judge Uhler, Jonte Washington, Linda Joseph, Roxana Alcon, Deputy Alexander, Attorney Metz, Attorney Brown at the Stand Down event.

21st Annual Adoption

Juvenile Court Presiding Judge, Annemarie G. Pace, addressed the audience with a focus on what it means to “treasure” someone. She stated, “When you treasure It is a feeling that lasts a lifetime.” She added, “When you treasure someone, that feeling and sentiment hangs on even in times of hardship.” Addressing the adoptive parents, she stated, “Remember this day, remember the commitment you are making and remember why you are adopting these children.” As the opening ceremony came to a close, the court was called into session and the families left to attend their individual finalization ceremonies presided over by the Juvenile Court Judges, the Honorable Annemarie G. Pace, the Honorable Christopher B. Marshall, the Honorable Steve Mapes and the Honorable Erin K. Alexander. At the end of each ceremony, every adopted child was given the gift of a new last name and a new family. someone it is not a momentary or fleeting feeling.

Finalization Day Celebration

By: Nataki Clark, Administrative Assistant

It is not often that there is a round of applause when it is announced that Court is now in-session. But that is what happened on Tuesday, November 6, at the 21 st Annual Adoption Finalization Day celebration held at the Ontario Convention Center. In collaboration with the San Bernardino County Children and Family Services (CFS) Department, the Juvenile Dependency Court took part and celebrated the adoption of 86 children . Families from all over the county

“Our Treasure

attended the joyous occasion,

Forever.”

“On a daily basis, the

judges and staff deal

most often with people

at their lowest times.

One day a year, we

have the pleasure of

celebrating love,

commitment, and joy

with adopting families.”

Honorable Juvenile Presiding Judge Annemarie Pace

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