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 | | Message From The President
Elyse H. Stiner |
| Greetings fellow Inn members & Happy 2025!
What a wild start to 2025! I have to believe I’m not alone in saying that 2025 hasn’t exactly been the new year I was anticipating. That being said, we can all jointly rejoice in having made it through the entire year of January. It is now February, at last. Despite a rocky start, as always, I am grateful for the Inn and our community. I have certainly relied heavily upon my Inn relationships thus far in 2025 and imagine there will be more of the same as the year continues.
The Inn and Commission held a Meet & Greet in January for attorneys newer to the workers’ compensation practice. It was a wonderful opportunity to get to know the Deputy Commissioners and what the Inn is all about. I may have slid in a few questions I was asking “for a friend” during the program as well :). In all seriousness and on behalf of the Inn, I would like to thank Brooke Anne Hunter and Lori D’Angelo for their hard work in putting the program together. On the same note, the mentorship program that Deputy Commissioner Ferris & Marilyn Harvey are spearheading for the Inn this year is one of a kind. I’m very excited for the format and you can read more about that program in this newsletter.
We have some great regional events coming up this spring. From hockey games to southwest bar events to tidewater beachside socials, the Inn is making an appearance near you. Detailed information has been emailed to membership so make sure you have RSVP’d/RSVP in time!
We are also looking forward to seeing everyone at our annual conference on May 14 and 15, 2025 in Charlottesville, VA. I know you are all eagerly awaiting further details with bated breath and they are forthcoming. Don’t fret! We have a great agenda for the conference this year and are forever grateful to our speakers, sponsors, and planning committee members. Further details, RSVP information, agendas, and the like will be emailed to membership in the coming months. As you all know, Linda Willis, our executive director and professional wrangler of all lawyers, will be sending the 2025 conference emails. With all kindness and respect, I beseech you all to please read the email, determine its application to you, and respond accordingly. As behind Linda’s lovely emails that go unanswered, come mine. Motivation for all!
Now, as a treat to those who read this far, please enjoy some photographs of my daughter Penelope and my new nephew, Holden Finnigan Hurt, born in Frankfurt, Germany on January 21, 2025. Lastly, and most importantly, by the time everyone reads this we will know the outcome of the Superbowl. As I write this, we do not. So, I would be remiss if I did not end with, GO BIRDS!!!
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|  |  | Let us know how you would like to get involved and we will make that happen. |
| | Message from the VWC Chairman
Wesley G. Marshall
The Times, They Are A Changin’ |
| I hope this wintry day in February 2025 finds all members of the workers’ compensation bar in good spirits. The workers’ compensation system, just like any government system, goes through changes over time. Sometimes these occur quickly, sometimes slowly. Recent initiatives and informal polling with attorneys gave me the opportunity to see where we are in judicial administration for workers’ compensation in Virginia. I was surprised to learn from a number of attorneys, and from some of our statistics at the VWC, how the face of litigation has changed. In the years leading up to 2020, VWC touted the immense success of our expanded Alternative Dispute Resolution program. In fact, VWC won an award from the International Association of Industrial Accident Boards and Commissions for innovation with its ADR Program. All of this was the result of the hard work of many, most importantly Deputy Commissioner Deborah Blevins and our first ADR Department Manager, Alfred Bridger. |
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| I appreciated that ADR was considered a huge success by stakeholders. Attorneys regularly related how the program created positive working relationships with opposing counsel and favorable outcomes for all. I knew more cases were settling and a longstanding challenge with delays from claim filing to claim resolution had been significantly reduced. What I did not focus on was the other side of the coin: that litigation to a final result was decreasing.
As I polled attorneys, a theme emerged. Most workers’ compensation attorneys these days may try a few hearings a month – several said the average was one to two cases. It seems the days of 10-20 hearings a month have gone the way of the dodo bird. A recent look at Commission hearing dockets and opinions showed consistent downward trending. For attorneys, ADR may change the nature of the work required, but it does not eliminate it. For attorneys, and for our mediators and staff, there still is a lot of hard work. Tough and curious legal problems still will require judicial decisions. But, at the end of the day, many claims that otherwise would have ended up on one or more hearing dockets may be removed from the system permanently. That is a good outcome for all of us. |
| | Better Together - The Inn of Court Mentorship Program Lynne M. Ferris |
|  | We all start somewhere. Some more recently than others, but we all start somewhere. Take a moment to remember when you first began practicing workers’ compensation law. For me, neither the practice of law, in general, nor workers’ compensation law, in specific, was intuitive. Aspects of practice, such as when to ask a question and when to stay silent may be intuitive, but the nuts and bolts of practice are definitely not. For example, who knew that there were Commission Rules that parties are required to follow? Who knew that parties are expected to file medical designations and that the designations are required to be formatted in a certain way? Who knew that when you took a job in one geographic area, you might also need to appear in a number of other areas and be knowledgeable about expert witnesses and the deputy commissioners in those areas? I didn’t, and while it wasn’t all that common when I began practicing, it certainly is now.
We all start somewhere, and for those of us who have been around for a while, we didn’t get to where we are now by ourselves. I am forever grateful that when I began practicing, I was mentored by two of the most well-respected attorneys in the business: Bill Dudley and Bob Rapaport. They didn’t just hire me and expect me to figure things out on my own; they took a genuine interest in helping me grow personally and professionally. They encouraged me to join professional organizations and to be active in the Bar. They cautioned me not to lose sight of the importance of family as I worked hard to learn the ropes. When I needed help, they were there to give it. When I needed information, they knew where to find it. When I came up against new challenges that they had seen before, they were willing to give me the benefit of their experience. I am very thankful for Bill and Bob’s willingness to help me. We all make our way, but it is easier when you have some wise, seasoned people in your corner you can call on when needed.
For attorneys who are new to the practice, welcome. While most do not go to law school with the aspiration of becoming a workers’ compensation attorney, I challenge anyone to find a more collegial Bar or a more rewarding area of practice. Consider signing up for the Inn mentorship program. For those experienced attorneys who are mindful that you did not get to where you are now on your own and choose to pay it forward by mentoring others, thank you.
The Virginia Workers’ Compensation Inn of Court is made up of people who share a passion for professional excellence. It is designed to provide members with an opportunity to grow professionally and interact personally through various activities such as the Annual Conference in May and social gatherings throughout the year. The Inn recognizes the value of relationships, and I am honored to serve on its mentorship committee. This year, Inn mentorship will look different than it did in the past. Instead of individual mentor/mentee assignments, those interested in being mentored will be provided with a state-wide list of those willing to mentor. Under this new configuration, mentees will have the opportunity to “phone a friend” from either side of the Bar anywhere in Virginia to ask questions, and get information, such as where to find experts in different parts of the state or what different deputy commissioners are like. This is a great opportunity for seasoned attorneys to help attorneys new to the practice and for new attorneys to have access to state-wide resources to grow in their knowledge of workers’ compensation law. This new iteration of the Inn mentorship program will launch in March 2025. There is room for everyone, either as a mentor or a mentee, and I encourage all members to participate. We all start somewhere but it is better when we don’t have to go it alone. Collectively, the Bar is better together. Wherever you are along the road, please join us on the journey.
For those interested in being a mentee or mentor, please contact Linda Willis.
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| |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | | Congratulations to the following members on their retirements: Sarah Y. M. Himmel of Two Rivers Law Group James G. “Jim” Muncie, Jr. of Midkiff, Muncie & Ross Deputy Commissioner Deborah W. “Debbie” Blevins Deputy Commissioner Jimese P. Sherrill
These pillars of our workers’ compensation community will be missed!
Ralph L. Whitt, Jr. has become Of Counsel at Whitt Del Bueno Clark Perkinson.
A Jacob Perkinson has become a partner at Whitt Del Bueno Clark Perkinson.
Joseph P. “Joe” Smith, III and Angela Neiman have joined Reinhardt Harper Davis.
Lori D'Angelo has been appointed Chair of the Dispute Resolution Committee of the International Association of Industrial Accident Boards and Commissions for 2025. The IAIABC empowers, educates, and connects the global workers’ compensation community to reduce harm and aid recovery from work injuries and illnesses.
VWC Chairman Wesley G. Marshall has been elected to the Board of Trustees for the International Workers’ Compensation Foundation (IWCF). The IWCF is a respected non-profit organization dedicated to promoting research, analysis, and educational programming in the field of workers’ compensation. The Foundation also facilitates a Senior Regulators Advisory Council, bringing together leading workers’ compensation regulators to collaborate on emerging trends and challenges within the industry.
Elyse H. Stiner has been selected as one of Virginia Lawyers Weekly’s Class of 2025 Influential Women of Law honorees. The Influential Women of Law awards program honors female attorneys and judges for their excellent work on behalf of the justice system and for their clients, their commitment to their communities and their service to the profession. |
| We welcome the following new Inn members: Mariah Riley - Associates Category - McCandlish Holton P. Heith Reynolds - Masters of the Bench - The Mark Hurt Law Firm Daniel I. Hall - Barristers Category - Midkiff, Muncie & Ross, P.C. (Bristol) Tyler Sikkar - Associates Category - Harbison Kavanagh, PLLC Jason Mullins - Master of the Bench - PennStuart (Bristol) Jessica Sherwood - Associates - Renfro & Renfro
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| | As we understand it, effective July 17, 2025, CMS will no longer accept or review WCMSA proposals with a zero-dollar ($0) allocation.
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| Member SpotlightBefore their retirements, let’s get to know Deputy Commissioners Blevins and Sherrill a little better. |
| Deborah W. “Debbie” Blevins |
| | What is one of your favorite books? Christy by Catherine Marshall.
If you weren’t an attorney, what would you do as a profession? It’s not exactly a profession, but I always thought it would be fun to work in the gift shop at Yellowstone.
Have you ever met or known anyone famous? My nephew, Gilbert Crockett, is a professional skateboarder. He has a line of shoes with Vans, so everywhere I travel, I look (and usually find) his shoes.
What is your favorite sports team? Virginia Tech. I went to UVA, but my son went to Tech and we live 45 minutes from Blacksburg. Go Hokies!
What was your first job? I worked the cash register at the Hickory Hut in Dinwiddie, where I grew up. It was a local version of McDonald’s, but only two of us worked at a time. Me and the cook.
What talent would you like most to have? I wish I could sing. My dad, my sister, and my daughter have great voices and harmony together. Wish I was a part of that.
Where would you most like to live? Pulaski, which is where I live. It’s a small town, and I’m a small-town person. Close enough to my children and grandchildren to help & enjoy each other, but far enough away to not be a nuisance. And if I could afford it, I would winter in Islamorada, Florida.
Where would you most like to travel where you have not yet visited? San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.
What do you do in your spare time? What spare time? Soduku puzzles & reading.
What is your favorite holiday and why? Easter. It’s all about new beginnings and joy and forgiveness. And I do a scavenger egg hunt for my adult children and their spouses. Big fun.
In conclusion… I am going to miss you all and thank you so much for sharing your lives with me. |
| | | | | Where were you born, and what is an interesting fact about that location? Waynesboro Virginia, named after Revolutionary war hero Mad Anthony Wayne (along with Waynesburg, PA and Fort Wayne, Indiana). The P. Buckley Moss Gallery is in Waynesboro. Anyone who has been in my office will have seen her artwork. The annual Fall Foliage Festival in early October makes a wonderful weekend getaway.
What is one of your favorite books? I like to read historical fiction. However, one of the best books I’ve read recently is We Were the Lucky Ones, based on an amazing, true story. My favorite book as a child was Black Beauty, as I have always loved horses.
What is the best meal that you can cook? I don’t cook a lot, but my family loves the sausage, egg, and cheese casserole I make every year for Christmas day brunch.
What is your favorite sport to watch and why? College basketball, with college football a close second. I’ve always liked watching both, even as a little girl. My husband played basketball at the Naval Academy, so we enjoy watching together.
What is your favorite sports team? My favorite team in any sport is the North Carolina Tar Heels, with Navy a close second (sorry hubby). My grandfather played football and baseball at UNC, and he used to take me to games. I’m a lifelong Tar Heel at heart!
What was your first job? My first jobs were at McDonalds and as a gift wrapper at Leggett.
What talent would you like most to have? I sing, so I would love to be able to play the piano.
Where would you most like to live? I’ve always wanted to live near the beach. We just finished building a house in Okatie, SC, close to Hilton Head Island and the beach! Our community also has horses, so it really is everything I always dreamed.
Where would you most like to travel where you have not yet visited? I am excited to travel more in retirement and especially want to go to Greece, Italy, and France. I have also always wanted to go on an African safari.
What do you do in your spare time? I like to read and walk our dog, Sophie. I am looking forward to playing pickleball, riding my bike, and going to the beach once we move. My husband and I also plan to take Shag dance lessons.
What is your favorite holiday and why? Christmas because of the decorations, lights, and music. I love listening to and singing Christmas songs. I also enjoy watching Hallmark Christmas movies.😊
In conclusion… I think I’m a great driver – a 10+, I don’t drink coffee (but sweet iced tea is a weakness), and even though I’m a night owl, I can’t remember the last time I stayed up past 4 in the morning (Reagan was most likely President).
I have truly enjoyed being a part of the IOC and am going to miss everyone!
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| | The Commission has selected Frederick T. “Ted” Schubert, II and Christopher “Chris” Wilson as the new Deputy Commissioners for the Manassas office. In making the announcement, Chief Deputy Commissioner Szablewicz stated, “Both are excellent choices, and I look forward to having them come on board.” |
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| Inn Happenings And Other Events |
| | Washington Capitals Game - March 7, 2025 – sold out
Webinar - March 11, 2025 4:00 pm “Ombudsman Department: What We Do & How We Can Help You” (1 CLE approved) Presented by Lori D’Angelo, Ombudsman
Roanoke Regional Event - March 12, 2025 5:30 - 7:00 pm Recent Decisions in Workers' Compensation Law - presented by DC Lauren Hill (1 CLE pending) Virginia Workers' Compensation Commission - Roanoke Regional Office 3800 Electric Road, Suite 200 Roanoke, VA 24018 Deadline to RSVP: March 3, 2025 to Linda at vaworkercompamerinn@gmail.com
Tidewater Regional Event - March 20, 2025 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Beachside Social 2728 Atlantic Avenue Virginia Beach, VA 23451 Join the fun with shuffleboard, food and drink ticket. Deadline to RSVP: March 3, 2025 Many thanks to our sponsor Alliance Meds.
SW VA Bar Meeting & Inn of Court - April 17, 2025 10:00 – 2:00 pm The Virginian Gold Club – Bristol, VA
Annual Conference - May 14 & 15, 2025 Omni Charlottesville Registration Information will be sent in a couple weeks |
| | Richmond Holiday Party December 2024 |
| | | Tidewater Holiday Party December 2024 |
|  | Winchester Holiday PartyDecember 2024 |
|  | Northern VA Holiday PartyDecember 2024 |
| | Roanoke Holiday PartyDecember 2024 |
| | | Save the Date for Kids' Chance of Virginia's 13th Annual Charity Golf Classic! Taking place on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at Hunting Hawk Club. |
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