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2011 SESSION

11105552D
HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 85
Offered February 24, 2011
Commending the Honorable Dorothy H. Clarke.
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Patrons-- Brink, Ebbin, Englin, Hope, Kory and Scott, J.M.
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WHEREAS, the Honorable Dorothy H. Clarke, an esteemed judge of the 17th Judicial District General District Court, will retire on May 1, 2011, after 14 years of service to the citizens of Arlington and Falls Church; and

WHEREAS, Dorothy Clarke received a bachelor of science degree in foreign service from Georgetown University and a law degree from Georgetown University Law Center; a certified mediator in general and family law, Dorothy Clarke later received diplomas of humanities and judging and of judicial skills from the American Academy of Judicial Education; and

WHEREAS, Dorothy Clarke began her legal career in general practice before working for the National School Boards Association; she then returned to general practice, focusing on family, education, and administrative law; and

WHEREAS, Dorothy Clarke served with distinction for eight years as a member of the Arlington School Board; and

WHEREAS, Dorothy Clarke served as a substitute judge for the Arlington Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court before her selection by the General Assembly in 1997 as a General District Court Judge of the 17th Judicial District; and

WHEREAS, an admired jurist, Judge Clarke served two terms as Chief Judge and has heard a variety of cases, presiding with great decorum, honor, and commitment to equal justice for all during her tenure; and

WHEREAS, respected by her colleagues for her insight and knowledge of the law, Judge Clarke has contributed to her profession as a member of the American Bar Association Judicial Division; Virginia, National, and International Association of Women Judges; American Judicature Society; and Virginia Bar Association Commission on the Needs of Children; and

WHEREAS, Judge Clarke has been an active community supporter, serving as a life member of the Virginia Parent Teacher Association, member of the Arlington Committee of 100, and former local president and member of the state board of directors for the American Association of University Women in addition to numerous other organizations; and

WHEREAS, Judge Clarke has received numerous awards and honors throughout her distinguished career for her professional accomplishments and public service; and

WHEREAS, in her retirement, Judge Clarke looks forward to spending time with her husband, Frederic B. Clarke III, and children, Peter E. Stambaugh, Dr. Elisabeth M. Stambaugh, Frederic B. Clarke IV, and Claire E. Bucher; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Delegates commend the Honorable Dorothy H. Clarke for her distinguished service on the occasion of her retirement; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the Honorable Dorothy H. Clarke as an expression of the House of Delegates’ gratitude for her commitment to justice and public service.