We’re just not quite there yet.

With cases of COVID-19 continuing to be detected each day in the Omaha community, the Omaha Bar Association is planning to play it safe and hold this year’s Law Day luncheon in a live virtual format instead of in person.

However, the OBA does plan to resume its traditional slate of in-person events starting later this year. It’s also encouraging members to watch this year’s luncheon in small groups in their law firms or with other colleagues.

The luncheon — which will be live via Zoom at noon Friday and available later on-demand — will feature University of Nebraska at Omaha history professor Mark Scherer as the keynote speaker.  Scherer will discuss his book on the Omaha federal courthouse from 1867 to 1933.

Attendees will also learn about activities that have been organized by the OBA in the local community, including donations of the children’s book “Bold and Brave” to area schools, a poster contest, an essay contest and a video tour of the Douglas County Courthouse.

The recipients of the annual OBA Public Service Award, Robert M. Spire Public Service Award and Alfred G. Ellick Lawyer Referral Service Award will be honored alongside the first recipient of a new Integrity in Service Award named in honor of the late U.S. Senior District Court Judge Laurie Smith Camp.

Recognizing Smith Camp’s legacy is an important part of this year’s Law Day celebration, said OBA Executive Director Dave Sommers.

“We appreciate people’s support and interest in that new award in honor of Judge Smith Camp,” Sommers said.

This year’s Law Day theme from the OBA is “Celebrating the Rule of Law in Our Country.”

Find more information on the event and register for free at omahabarassociation.com.