FEBRUARY 2010

Joseph L. Howard Jr. has announced that he will be retiring effective June 30, 2010, after 32-plus years of public service as a local government attorney, the last five as Stafford County Attorney. Joe writes: "LGA has been my family and support network ever since I started as a 'lone ranger' local government attorney out in Southwest Virginia . . . . I have thoroughly enjoyed the friendships I have made over the years through LGA and in serving in 3 very different localities: Washington County, Prince William County, and Stafford County." Joe is especially thankful, and humbled, by having the pleasure and honor of serving on the LGA Board of Directors. Joe also indicated an intent to "continue [his] association with LGA in retirement."

Veronica E. Sheppard began her tenure as a Senior Assistant City Attorney for the City of Hampton on December 21, 2009. A graduate of Georgetown University Law Center, Veronica first forayed into the local government scene as the Zoning Administrator for King & Queen County and as a paralegal for the D.C. Housing Authority. Prior to joining the City Attorney's Office, Veronica was an associate at Patten, Wornom, Hatten & Diamonstein in Newport News and at Huddles & Jones in Columbia, Maryland.

Loudoun County Public Schools has recently joined the LGA as an active member, and its chief legal counsel is E. William Chapman. Bill can be reached at 21000 Education Court, Ashburn, VA 20148 (Tel 571/252-1020; Fax 571/252-1003; bill.chapman@loudoun.k12.va.us).