The Columbian Lawyers Association of Brooklyn got their passports out and traveled all the way to Staten Island where they were welcomed by Justice Ralph Porzio during its monthly meeting at Nino's Restaurant on Hylan Boulevard on Jan. 10. The Columbian Lawyers are one of the most powerful and influential bar associations in Brooklyn, but the group does include many members who live or practice in Staten Island so once a year they hold a meeting there.

Porzio, who graduated from St. John's University School of Law in 1984, is a former assistant district attorney in the Staten Island D.A. 's Office, who also worked for 17 years in private practice. and served as a Family Court judge from 1996 through 2006 following an appointment by Mayor Rudy Giuliani. He also served as counsel to State Senator Andrew Lanza.