On behalf of the Executive Committee, I welcome you to the 2025-2026 Judge Henry Woods Inn of Court.  I am pleased for us to start another year of camaraderie and learning.  We have some new members, law students and a new Board member this year and I want to extend a warm welcome to them.  I urge them, as well as our existing members, to visit and become familiar with the “About Us” section of the American Inns of Court website at https://www.innsofcourt.org/.  It will be helpful when you attend our first meeting on Tuesday, September 9 at Red and Blue Events Venue.  

       Stacy Williams is our Counselor (President-Elect) this year.  She has planned the theme for our CLE programs of “Lawyering 101”.  It is designed to help young lawyers navigate the practice of law (or serve as a refresher for our experienced members).  Anthony McMullen will serve as our Secretary/Treasurer.  Rounding out the Executive Committee are Teresa Wineland (immediate past president), Judges Mike Rief, Joe Volpe and Brent Eubanks, and Amanda LaFever, Beau Duty (new Board member) and myself as President. Additionally, Inn member Jennifer Davis will continue her valuable service as Inn Administrator, and Judge Joe Volpe will serve as the Inn's Mentor Coordinator.

      Now, more than ever, it is essential to follow the mission of the American Inns of Court: To inspire the legal community to protect and advance the Rule of Law.  The diversity and range of experience of our members provide a unique opportunity for fellowship, mentoring and education.  When we meet with judges and other attorneys of exceptional caliber, we are challenged and motivated to practice with the same high standards of civility, professionalism and excellence.

      Be sure to attend the second Tuesday meetings for September-November and January-April.  The December date will be our annual holiday party at the Edgemont House in North Little Rock.  Our final meeting of the Inn year will be the annual picnic at the Arkansas Travelers game in May.

      I invite you to actively connect with other members and take full advantage of Inn membership.  I encourage you to reach out to me or any of the Board members with and questions, concerns or ideas you may have to make our Inn better.

Best regards,

John Dan Kemp