Fall 2026 Print

    VMCA Mission Statement

    VMCA  MISSION STATEMENT

    The mission of the Virginia Municipal Clerks Association is to promote professional development through continuing education and networking opportunities. The VMCA challenges its members to use their abilities, talents and strengths in the proficient and effective delivery of local government services.

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    President's Message

    Happy Fall Clerks!!

    As the leaves begin to change and we settle into the beautiful rhythm of fall, I'm reminded that this season is all about growth, connection, and reaping what we have sown. Those same themes truly reflect the strength of the Virginia Municipal Clerks Association.

    I want to extend a special thank you to Dr. Jai from IIMC for joining us for our recent Q&A session. I hope you found the conversation helpful and that you were able to get answers to some of the questions that are important to you as you continue your certification journey and professional development. Opportunities like this are a great reminder of the value of being connected to one another and having access to those who can help us along the way.

    I also had the pleasure of hosting the Clerks of Region IX in Dinwiddie for our quarterly lunch. There is something special about gathering around the table, sharing ideas, exchanging experiences, and simply enjoying the fellowship of colleagues who understand the unique work we do. These moments of connection are one of the many things that make our Association special.

    I am especially excited as we look ahead to the VMCA Institutes & Academy. I am thrilled to be facilitating a session and look forward to learning, laughing, sharing, and connecting with each of you. I hope you will come ready to engage, ask questions, share your experiences, and most importantly, enjoy being surrounded by your fellow Clerks. I can't wait to see everyone in Virginia Beach!

    As we enter this season, I encourage each of you to think about what you can plant within our Association. Maybe it's your time, your knowledge, your experience, a new idea, or simply your willingness to help another Clerk. VMCA is strongest when we all contribute.

    This Association is what we make it. The future of VMCA depends on Clerks who are willing to step forward, get involved, serve on committees, attend events, share their expertise, and support one another. There is a place for everyone, whether you are a seasoned Clerk or just beginning your journey.

    If you've ever wondered, "How can I get involved?" or "Where can I contribute?" please reach out to me. I would love to help you find an opportunity that fits your interests, experience, and availability. 

    Let's continue to grow together, serve together, and strengthen our profession together.

    Wishing you all a beautiful fall season filled with fellowship, growth, and a little pumpkin spice along the way!

    With appreciation,

    Camisha Brown, MMC
    President

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    Message from the 1st Vice President

    It's hard to believe we're already into fall! This year seems to have flown by, and I'm sure I'm not the only one wondering where the time has gone!

    I hope everyone had a wonderful summer and was able to enjoy some time with family and friends. I was lucky enough to sneak away for a beach trip with my family, and we also welcomed my sweet new nephew into the world! It was definitely a busy summer, but one filled with some special memories. Now, we're enjoying cooler weather, football, baseball, and all the fun things that come with fall!

    As Municipal Clerks, we all know how busy life can get. Between meetings, agendas, minutes, deadlines, and everything else that comes our way, there never seem to be enough hours in the day. And somehow, we always find a way to get it all done!

    One thing I've learned throughout my time as a Clerk is just how important it is to have people you can lean on. That's one of my favorite things about VMCA. We have such a wonderful group of Clerks who are always willing to answer questions, share ideas, offer advice, or simply listen when someone needs to vent. The friendships and connections I've made through this organization mean so much to me.

    As we head into the last few months of the year, I hope everyone takes a little time to slow down, enjoy the fall season, and appreciate the little things in life. We spend so much of our time taking care of our localities, our elected officials, and everyone around us that sometimes we forget to take a little time for ourselves.

    Remember that the work you do matters, even on the days when it feels like nobody notices. You are appreciated, and you make a difference! ❤️

    Thank you for everything you do for your localities and for making VMCA such a wonderful organization to be part of. I'm so thankful for the friendships, opportunities, and experiences this organization has given me, and I look forward to continuing to learn and grow alongside all of you.

    Wishing you and your families a wonderful fall season!

    Kaylyn McCluster, MMC

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    Message from the 2nd Vice President

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    Message from the Past President

    Hello Everyone!

    As most of you are aware, I have resigned from my position as Culpeper County's Deputy Clerk to the Board of Supervisors and am excited to announce that I have begun a new chapter as the Culpeper County Election Manager in the Registrar's Office.

    The friendships, experiences, and memories I have made during my time with VMCA is something I will never forget and will always treasure. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside so many of you throughout the years.

    I wish each of you the best and continued success as you pursue your future goals. I hope we can stay connected. I will now be a retired member of VMCA. Thank you all for being a part of my journey.

    I am excited to see all that VMCA accomplishes in the years ahead!

    With Gratitude,

    Kimberly Ellis, MMC
    Immediate Past President

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    Welcome New Members

    Kelly Ambrose - Amelia County

    Kelly Bassford - Mathews County

    Xavier Clark - City of Newport News

    Vickie Cliborne - Town of Drakes Branch

    Samantha Conner - Franklin County

    Maria Eisenhardt - Town of Leesburg

    Nicole Enke - Prince William County

    Jennifer Grimmell - Town of Leesburg

    C. D. Hagy - Town of Wytheville

    Christine Hall - Town of Urbanna

    Tammy Harmon - Charlotte County

    Brandel Kelsey - Town of Berryville

    Sally Kidalov - City of Fairfax

    Evan LaBelle - City of Norfolk

    Amanda Logan - Town of Leesburg

    Emmanuel Manolakas - City of Norfolk

    Brenda Martin - City of Fredericksburg

    Kimberly Morris - City of Richmond

    Vicki Quesenberry - Town of Bluefield

    Alicia Terry - Town of Leesburg

    Christina Thompson - City of Alexandria

    Shiann Turpin - Town of Louisa

    Jamie Upham - York County

    Whitney Wade - Town of Troy

    Hillary Wilfong - Town of Front Royal

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    CMC and MMC

    Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) designation:

    Kimberly Turner - Madison County (6/15/26)

    Susan M. Wilson - County of Chesterfield (8/11/26)

    Master Municipal Clerk (MMC) designation:

    Lorraine Spaulding - Town of Blacksburg (6/25/26)

    Laura E. Passos - Prince William County (8/20/26)

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    Executive Committee

    President
    Camisha Brown, MMC
    Executive Assistant to County Administrator / Clerk to the Board of Supervisors
    Dinwiddie County

    First Vice President
    Kaylyn McCluster, MMC
    Clerk to the Board of Supervisors
    Pittsylvania County

    Second Vice President
    Eileen Boeing, MMC
    Clerk of Council
    Town of Leesburg

    Secretary
    Alicia Finney
    Clerk of Council
    City of Lynchburg

    Historian
    Lorraine Spaulding, MMC
    Clerk of Council
    Town of Blacksburg

    Parliamentarian
    Travis O. Morris, MMC
    Senior Deputy Clerk
    County of Albemarle

    Treasurer
    Teresa J. Saeed, MMC
    Deputy Clerk
    James City County

    Immediate Past President
    Kimberly Ellis, MMC
    Elections Manager
    Culpeper County

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    Getting to KNOW your Executive Committee

    Meet Kaylyn McCluster, 1st Vice President:

    Where are you from? Born and raised?

    I was born in Concord, NC, but raised in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, and I've lived here since I was two years old. I currently live in the Town of Hurt with my family. I love this area and couldn't imagine calling anywhere else home!

    What is your favorite family tradition?

    I really just love spending time together as a family. Whether we're taking trips, celebrating holidays, or spending weekends at the baseball field, I love making memories with my family. As my kids get older, I've learned to appreciate those moments even more.

    Do you have a hobby you'd like to share? What do you do in your free time?

    Free time? What's that?! Haha! Between work, family, baseball, and volunteering, we stay pretty busy! My family and I helped start Gretna Youth League in 2025, and I serve as the Secretary. I love being involved and helping provide opportunities for kids in our community. When I'm not working, you'll usually find me at a baseball field, spending time with family, or planning our next trip!

    Where is your favorite place to travel? What is the best place you ever traveled to?

    So far, my favorite place is Panama City Beach, Florida! I love the beach, sunshine, and just getting away for a little while. We love traveling as a family and making memories together. We're going to Hawaii next year, though, so that might change my answer!

    What is your favorite food or cuisine?

    I'm pretty simple when it comes to food. Give me a good cheeseburger and fries, and I'm happy!

    Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years?

    In five years, I hope to still be doing something I love, continuing to grow in my career, and making a difference wherever I can. I enjoy learning new things, taking on challenges, and helping others.

    In ten years, I hope to look back and feel proud of what I've accomplished, both personally and professionally. Most importantly, I just want to be happy, healthy, spending time with my family, and enjoying life!

    How did you become a Municipal Clerk? Happenstance or planned?

    Definitely happenstance! I started working for Pittsylvania County in 2012 in the Buildings and Grounds Department. I eventually moved into County Administration, where I started helping with Board meetings and Clerk duties. Over time, I realized how much I enjoyed it, and one opportunity led to another. I became Deputy Clerk and eventually Clerk to the Board.

    I never planned on becoming a Municipal Clerk, but I'm so glad things worked out the way they did. I love what I do, the people I've met, and all the opportunities this profession has given me. I truly believe God puts us right where we're supposed to be!

    If you could be any age for the rest of your life, which would you choose? Why?

    I think I'd choose 35. By that age, you've learned a lot about life, you're more comfortable with who you are, and you still have plenty of life ahead of you! I wouldn't necessarily want to go back to my twenties because I feel like I've learned so much since then. But if I could have the energy I had in my twenties, that would be great! Haha!

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    Volunteer Opportunities

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    Committee Chairs

    Audit Committee
    Judi Green, Chair
    Assistant County Administrator / Deputy Clerk
    Mathews County

    Budget Committee
    Teresa J. Saeed, MMC, Chair
    Deputy Clerk
    James City County

    Bylaws Committee
    Stephen Clough, MMC, Chair
    Town Clerk
    Town of Warrenton   

    Clerk of the Year
    Pamela B. Wallace, CMC, Chair
    Clerk of Council
    City of Colonial Heights

    Education & Professional Development
    Kim Kingsley, CMC, Co-Chair
    Clerk, Deputy Treasurer and Paralegal
    Town of Abingdon

    Mina Barberis, MMC, Co-Chair
    Deputy City Clerk
    City of Norfolk

    Newsletter
    Ashley R. Clatterbuck, MMC, Chair
    Town Clerk
    Town of Culpeper

    Nominating Committee
    Rachael Brinson, MMC, Chair
    Town Administrator / Town Clerk
    Town of Remington

    Scholarship Committee
    Katherine Maines, CMC, Chair
    Deputy Clerk
    Town of Culpeper

    Website Development
    Travis O. Morris, MMC, Co-Webmaster
    Senior Deputy Clerk
    County of Albemarle

    Kyna Thomas, MMC, Co-Webmaster
    Clerk of Council / Chief of Staff
    City of Charlottesville

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    Calendar of Events

    2026 VMCA Institutes and Academy - Oct 20-23 at Holiday Inn North Beach Hotel in Virginia Beach (more info)

    2026 VAGARA Annual Conference - Oct 21-23 at Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg (more info)

    2027 IIMC Annual Conference - May 9-12 in Fort Worth, Texas (more info)

    2028 IIMC Annual Conference - May 21-24 in Bellevue, Washington

    2029 IIMC Annual Conference - May 20-23 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

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    Clerk of the Year

    Call for Nominations:

    2027 Clerk of the Year Award

    The Virginia Municipal Clerks Association (VMCA) will begin accepting nominations in January 2027 for its annual Clerk of the Year Award, recognizing an outstanding Virginia Clerk or Deputy Clerk. The VMCA will present the award at its Annual Meeting in April.

    The award honors a VMCA member who demonstrates innovation, professional development, community involvement, exceptional job performance, and a positive attitude. Nominees must have been a VMCA member for at least two years.

    As you think about the Clerks and Deputy Clerks you work with, consider your Clerk, Deputy Clerk or fellow VMCA Clerk who goes above and beyond in serving their locality, community, and the municipal clerk profession. Perhaps they have made a lasting contribution, embraced new ideas, supported their colleagues, or they consistently demonstrate exceptional dedication to their profession.

    Please take a moment to recognize a deserving Clerk or Deputy Clerk by submitting a nomination when the 2027 nomination period opens. Share the nomination information with your county boards, city councils, and staff as well. Our membership is full of AWESOME clerks deserving of such an award!

    The 2027 Clerk of the Year Committee is chaired by Pam Wallace (Colonial Heights) and includes Sade Allen (Hopewell), Kristen Carroll (Waverly), Caitlin Solis (Fluvanna), and Stephanie Dorman (Louisa).

    Looking forward to your submission!

    Pam Wallace, CMC

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    Educational Opportunities

    2027 VMCA Annual Meeting and Conference

    "Still Having Fun in Year 251"

    Williamsburg, VA

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    Tis the Season

    Ever wonder why Pumpkins show up at Halloween?

    Turns out fruits and vegetables have seasons, too!

    Here's a list of what grows in the Fall: from Apples to Zucchini

    Fall leaves and steaming bowls, good soup warms the soul.

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    Region Directors

    2026-2027 Region Directors

    Region I
    Vacant

    Region II
    Vacant

    Region III
    Pamela Ulmer
    City Clerk
    City of Harrisonburg
    Phone: (540) 432-7701
    Email: [email protected]

    Region IV
    Lorraine Spaulding, CMC
    Town Clerk
    Town of Blacksburg
    Phone: (540) 443-1026
    Email: [email protected]

    Region V
    Susan DeMasi, CMC
    City Clerk
    City of Danville
    Phone: (434) 797-8928
    Email: [email protected] 

    Region VI
    Maxicelia (Max) Robinson
    Deputy Clerk of Council
    City of Charlottesville
    Phone: (434) 296-5843 x3036 
    Email: [email protected]

    Region VII
    Desiree Ellis
    Deputy Clerk
    Town of Remington
    Phone: (540) 439-3220 ext. 111
    Email: [email protected] 

    Region VIII
    Heather Oliver
    Town Clerk
    Town of Colonial Beach
    Phone: (804) 224-7103
    Email: [email protected] 

    Region IX
    Susan Wilson
    Clerk to the Board
    Chesterfield County
    Phone: (804) 748-1200
    E-mail: [email protected]

    Region X

    Judi Green
    Assistant County Administrator / Deputy Clerk
    Mathews County
    Phone: (804) 725-6395
    E-mail: [email protected]

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    Getting to KNOW your Region Directors

    Meet Judi Green, Region X Director:

    Where are you from? Born and raised?

    I was born in Philadelphia, PA (Go Birds!) and raised mostly in Gloucester, VA.

    What is your favorite family tradition?

    Our Thanksgiving Tacky Turkey T-Shirt Contest, the babies ALWAYS win! LOL

    Do you have a hobby you'd like to share? What do you do in your free time?

    Organizing absolutely everything and getting my hands dirty in the garden - those are my happy places! If it can be sorted, labeled, or planted, I'm all in. Also, we live on the water, so I fish just about every day.

    Where is your favorite place to travel? What is the best place you ever traveled to?

    Any place there is sand and salt. My favorite place is St. Maarten; however, our youngest daughter is getting married in Cancun in March so that could change.

    What is your favorite food or cuisine?

    I love seafood paired with all the veggies. 

    Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years?

    Five years from now, I hope to still be right here - I truly love what I do. In ten years, I picture myself shore fishing or playing in the ocean anywhere the water is a beautiful shade of blue.

    How did you become a Municipal Clerk? Happenstance or planned?

    It was definitely happenstance. My background is primarily in a medical setting, and I wasn't looking to make a career change. Out of the blue, someone reached out to me through a networking platform and asked me to apply for an open position. I decided to give it a try, and five years later, I'm still here and grateful for the path that opportunity opened. 

    If you could be any age for the rest of your life, which would you choose? Why?

    Forty. My forties were some of my best years. Our five children were deeply involved in sports, school activities, and travel teams. Life was hectic, but they thrived, and we built friendships we still enjoy today.

    More about me:

    Philip and I have been married for 31 years and have adjusted surprisingly well to our empty-nest phase. We have five beautiful, smart, sports-loving granddaughters, two oversized lap dogs (better known as Labrador Retrievers), a Maine Coon cat I've been fostering for almost five years - don't laugh - and three rescued bantam chickens (so far). Life as an Assistant County Administrator and Deputy Clerk can be more hectic than raising our five children, but just like that adventure, I wouldn't trade it - most days! We're homebodies at heart, except when we're cheering on our granddaughters at volleyball or softball. Our children are scattered across Virginia, so we still travel to watch the girls play and visit. I have a soft spot for stray animals and will go to great lengths to rescue them - hence the long-term cat fostering. I'm genuinely excited for this opportunity to get to know more of the amazing clerks in Region X and to add a few more wonderful people to this great group.

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    Region III News

    Middletown Clerk Christina Smith is praising one of their own, Detective Sandy Seabaugh of the Middletown Police Department. Ms. Seabaugh came to the U.S. at the age of 10 and not long after applied for and was granted citizenship. She joined the Police Department after graduating from the Academy with the inspiration of their Police Chief, working her way up to detective. She was recently named Employee of the Year by the Town of Middletown. She is currently pursuing her doctoral degree. We all share Clerk Christina's enthusiasm for fellow government workers who strive to help our citizens. 

    Town of Mount Jackson Clerk Barbie Riggleman has got some exciting news. Her son, Gavin, started his first year of high school at Stonewall Jackson HS. On August 22, her daughter Lauren Miller, got engaged to her fiancé, Alex Pacheco. She told him, "you better not embarrass me in front of all these people." He said, "it's happening!" He proposed at Longwood Gardens in PA, where they had taken a trip to last year as she loves plants. The sweet boy invited her parents and his ahead of time, so they were hiding behind some big ferns and popped out. It was great! Nothing like seeing your baby girl get engaged to the man of her dreams! They are looking forward to an October wedding in Maryland. Congratulations to Barbie for all the good things in her future.

    Waynesboro City Clerk Julia Bortle had to say goodnight to her 13-year old baby recently. If you've ever been blessed enough to have that one soul dog, you know how deeply heartbreaking it is to have to let them go. She knows another can never take Maggie's spot, but she's praying that if St. Frances wants to add to her family, one will somehow come along.

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    Region IV News

    Greetings from Region IV!

    Wow! How are we already preparing for cooler weather and all things pumpkin? Here in Blacksburg, it's still been warm - we had an 80-degree day just the other day!!

    We've been having fun with our IIMC mascot, Quill. Several clerks have joined in and sent their Quill sightings our way! Here's one from Samantha in Franklin County!

    There have been several wonderful highlights in Region IV this summer. One of those was hosting a Records Retention Course in partnership with the Library of Virginia. Blacksburg welcomed Municipal Clerks, Municipal employees, and Court Clerks from throughout the New River Valley. It was a very successful event, and we were happy to have so many of our regional colleagues join us!

    I was also excited to earn my MMC this summer and become an Athenian Facilitator shortly afterward! It was an exciting milestone and a wonderful opportunity to continue learning and connecting with other clerks.

    At our Fall Lunch & Learn Regional meeting, Town Clerk Brandi Jones of Wytheville hosted us at the Log House 1776 Restaurant. We discussed recent rule changes for notaries and took an in-depth look at CMC and MMC certification. It was a great opportunity to learn, share information, and spend time together.

    Additionally, I was able to attend the recent Virginia Women Leading Government (VWLG) Leadership Day Seminar in Wytheville on September 24. It was a wonderful day of learning, inspiration, and growth for women serving in local government. I spotted several other clerks from across Virginia - and, of course, - another Quill sighting!

    As we look ahead to the fall and winter, I'm excited for the upcoming Institutes and Academy. This event provides another great opportunity to learn, share ideas, and connect with fellow clerks from across the Commonwealth. I hope to see many of you there as we continue learning and growing together!

    See you soon!

    Lorraine

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    Region V News

    No news, is good news? 

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    Region VII News

    The Town of Culpeper was named the 2026 Virginia Municipal League (VML) Innovation Award winner in the Economic Development category for Heritage Park, recognizing the Town's efforts to transform a downtown property into a vibrant public space that supports community connection, local businesses, events, and economic activity. 

    Since opening, Heritage Park has quickly become a hub for community events, including the 4th of July, Make a Mural Workshop Series, BikeFest, Winter Farmers Market, Wreaths Across America, and many more. 

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    Region IX News

    As I am writing this I just cannot believe how fast this year has gone! Recently, I took up sewing and learned a new word going around in the crafting world - "summerween" - which I believe means making your holiday crafts over the summer. I had all of these big plans to sew everyone a handmade Christmas present. Looking at the calendar, I don't think that is going to happen. Maybe next year!!

    In August the Region IX clerks got together for lunch in Dinwiddie at Joe's Steak and Seafood. If you've never been there, it's a great place to eat! We learned that many of our localities are experiencing some of the same trends, such a public opinion about data centers and license plate readers. Others are preparing for elections, and some localities (including Chesterfield) have a referendum on the ballot relating to an additional local retail sales tax of up to 1 percentage point. It's comforting to discuss our shared experiences and hear how other clerks adjust to changing expectations. Region IX's next luncheon will be held in Richmond in early 2027. If you are in a neighboring locality and would like to join us, please let me know.

    In August, Chesterfield welcomed a new county administrator, Dr. Kevin Catlin, following a nationwide search to fill the position after Dr. Joe Casey's retirement. He is already off to a strong start and is a great addition to Team Chesterfield.

    I hope as we enter the holiday season you will find a pace that leads to peace and time well-spent with loved ones. 

    Susan Wilson

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    Region X News

    Welcome to Dr. Xavier D. Clark, new City Clerk of Newport News!

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    Clerk Spotlight

    News from the 2026 General Assembly:

    SB530 | Chief Patron: Srinivasan

    State and Local Government Conflict of Interests Act; electronic disclosure by local government officers and employees. Requires local government officers and employees to file annual disclosure statements electronically with the Virginia Conflict of Interest and Ethics Advisory Council in accordance with approved standards. Such officers and employees shall be able to file the annual disclosure statement electronically beginning January 1, 2027, but such electronic filing shall be required (i) for localities with populations in excess of 250,000, beginning January 1, 2028; (ii) for localities with populations in excess of 100,000 but not more than 250,000, beginning January 1, 2029; and (iii) for localities with populations not exceeding 100,000, beginning January 1, 2030. The bill provides that the Department of Elections shall be responsible for coordinating the electronic filing by candidates for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, the Senate, or the House of Delegates, and the general registrars shall be responsible for coordinating the electronic filing by candidates for constitutional offices, local governing bodies, and elected school boards.

    Quill attended the VML Conference in Norfolk (October 10-13)

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    Contact the Editor

    It is an honor to put together this Newsletter for my Clerk family. But it wouldn't exist without each of you! So send me photos, news articles, etc. all year long.

    Let me know what you would like to see in the Spring publication!

    Photo: My Husband's Birthday Dinner in July

    Ashley R. Clatterbuck, MMC
    Town Clerk for the Town of Culpeper

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