Lambert J. Hassinger, Jr. is the new IALDA President…

Firm Director, Joe Hassinger, is the new IALDA President for 2010-2012 term.

Lambert J. Hassinger, Jr. (Joe) has been elected President of IALDA–the International Amusement and Leisure Defense Association.

Mr. Hassinger will serve a two-year term.  He follows in the footsteps of immediate past-president David Daly, who also serves as an officer in the New England Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions.  “David has done a great job as President of IALDA.  It will be a challenge to live up to the standard set by him and others before him,” Mr. Hassinger says.

Joe Hassinger will be accompanied by Bryan Pope from Texas as Vice-President, Gaylee Gillim from Kentucky as Secretary, and David Bennett from Chicago as Treasurer.  Their fellow members of the Board of Directors are Michael Amaro, David Daly, Joseph Brownlee, Lary Zucker, Sean Hannon, Boyd Jensen, John Grund, Kurt Anselmi and Tom Sheehan.

IALDA is an international non-profit association of defense attorneys, operators, insurance representatives, experts and others whose mission is to promote and protect the legal interests of the amusement, recreation and leisure industry.  IALDA provides a forum for members to exchange information, share experiences and develop common discovery, safety and litigation strategies.  IALDA also operates as a clearinghouse for speakers and authors on industry-specific topics and educational seminars.  For more information, go to www.ialda.org.

As he looks ahead, Mr. Hassinger plans to continue those IALDA programs that have proven to be most beneficial to the industry, while embarking on new projects that will enhance IALDA’s service.  “For example,” Mr. Hassinger explains, “I expect IALDA members will continue their commitment to presenting seminars at IAAPA, WWA, AIMS, BPAA, RSA and other industry functions.  Our seminars and mock trials help educate operators, increase safety awareness, and reduce the frequency and severity of claims.  Attendance at our seminars is always strong, and our attendees are so appreciative.  Going forward, we will complement those programs with an enhanced website and increased visibility in the industries we represent.” 

Over the course of many years, GJTBS attorneys have had the pleasure of representing theme parks, ice skating rinks, roller skating rinks, Mardi Gras krewes, arenas/venues, special events, gymnastic centers, bowling centers, carnivals, sports organizations and their insurers.  They also work with business and industry leaders concerning water parks, manufacturers, festivals and inflatable attractions. 

In addition to Joe Hassinger, GJTBS directors Doris Bobadilla and Steve Moore are also active members of IALDA.  “We believe that to provide effective representation, we must truly know our clients’ industries.  Our service in IALDA is one way we accomplish that goal,” Mr. Hassinger explains.  “Plus,” he continues, “our active participation in IALDA gives us the opportunity to work with remarkable professionals who demonstrate their commitment to the amusement, recreation and leisure industry on a daily basis.”

Galloway, Johnson, Tompkins, Burr & Smith is one of the premier litigation defense firms in the Gulf South, with nine offices throughout Louisiana, Texas, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi and Missouri.