As of June 1, 2010, we remain committed to providing high quality services in all areas of interest. However, there has been a significant drop off in all phases of our operations. The downturn in the economy can be cited as the primary cause. The scarcity of bank lending to small and medium sized businesses has had a significant effect on the machinery and technical services opportunities that have been proffered to us. Arbitration and mediation conflict resolution requests have declined significantly, also. Fewer companies seem compelled to seek outside consultants when they are cutting back on expenses and reducing employment. Universities are cutting staff and adjunct positions are being reduced.

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) reports a higher percentage of cases are being settled before arbitration. Investment company clients may be willing to settle their claims because both sides of the table want to avoid the high cost associated litigation.

The United States Postal Service reports a large drop in their REDRESS complaint system of mediation could be related to better management response to complaints. Not surprising because that was the main purpose of the program. The unions have been screening complaints aggressively in a successful attempt to reduce their costs.

However, we have seen a pickup in the requests for mediation services that we receive from the Nueces County Dispute Resolution Center where we provide pro bono mediation assistance. We think this reflects some attorneys seeking a means to reduce client costs rather than using high fee-based professional mediation services provided by local attorney mediators who do not practice the Empowerment or Transformative model of mediation.

On a personal note, the Alumni Association of New Jersey Institute of Technology, New Jersey’s Science and Technology University, chose to select Edmund H. Hecht, along with five others, for its Distinguished Alumni Award for 2010 for achievements in his professional career, community activities, and support for NJIT. The award ceremony was held on May 22, 2010 during Alumni Reunion Weekend at the University. Hecht becomes one of a select group of approximately 150 recipients of the award that was instituted in 1979.

Hecht was specifically recognized for his internationally recognized consultations in marketing, management and technical service; for his ongoing contributions to the global community; and his receipt of the U. S. President’s Volunteer Service Award in both 2004 and 2007, and being designated a Fulbright Scholar in 2009.