STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The Richmond County Bar Association celebrated an historic milestone at its 115th Anniversary Gala, a ceremonial event that brought together jurists, and legal scholars who celebrated their unwavering dedication to justice, professional excellence and community service.
During the evening’s program, some 500 of Staten Island’s finest members of the judicial system lauded two of its distinguished legal eagles whose tireless work continues to shape and elevate the judiciary.
Feted by the Bar Association were New York State Supreme Court Justice Mario Mattei, who was named the 2026 Honoree of the Year, and longtime attorney, Robert J. Scamardella, who was presented with the Richard D. Lasher Meritorious Service Award.
Lasher was a highly revered attorney and a mentor for two generations of Island lawyers, and a community leader who passed away in 1994 at age 74.
The Program
Civil Court Judge Michael J. Pinto led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance and attorney, William J. Newstad, delivered an outstanding rendition of “God Bless America.”
The Invocation was offered by Rev. Michael T. Martine, pastor of Holy Rosary R.C. Church…