US MAGISTRATE COURT JUDGE EIFERT-
On November 5, the formal Investiture Ceremony for new US Magistrate Court Judge Cheryl A. Eifert was held at the Federal Courthouse in Huntington. An overflow crowd of lawyers, judicial leaders and members of the general public were in attendance., including Bar Foundation Officers and Board members. After comments by District Court Chief Judge Goodwin and District Court Judge Chambers, Judge Eifert delivered inspiring remarks followed by a reception where she greeted the attendees.

JUDGE ROBERT E. MAXWELL-
On Friday, December 17, a memorial service will be held in Elkins for US District Court Judge Robert E. Maxwell, who passed away last month. Judge Maxwell, who served for more than 40 years as a member of the federal judiciary, was highly admired and deeply respected by the multitudes of lawyers, judges, litigants and people who knew him. He was an inspiring individual who treated every person with fairness, equality and understanding. He was a leader in many endeavors relating to judicial matters, community activities and public affairs; most importantly, his landmark innovative initiation of alternate dispute resolution techniques, especially mediation, in federal court cases. Two of his children, Ellen and Earl, are active practicing lawyers in WV.  The memorial service will begin at 11:00 AM at Davis and Elkins College’s Hermanson Center.

BAR FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS-
The Bar Foundation’s Board of Directors will hold its regular quarterly meeting on December 9. There are several matters for consideration including the 2009-10 financial audit presented by the independent auditor, the real estate option agreement for the two buildings owned by the Bar Foundation and reports with action items from various committees. The Strategic Planning Committee will meet prior to the Board meeting and will present recommendations for future activities to the Board members.