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JUNE 2, 2022
Supervisors Debate Future of Data Center Development
Leesburg Remembers the Fallen
BY RENSS GREENE
rgreene@loudounnow.com
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
Lt. Gen. Bruce T. Crawford, Leesburg Mayor Kelly Burk and U.S. Rep. Jennifer Wexton lay a wreath at the World War I memorial during Monday morning’s Memorial Day Observance in the courthouse square. It was the largest of many community gatherings to reflect on the service and sacrifice of those who died while in military service. See more, Page 18
All Ages Read Together Graduates First Seniors BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.coma
About 15 years ago, a group of preschool-aged kids and senior citizens got together to share a love of reading. This year, the first group of those kids are graduating high school, with a jump start and a life-long love of reading dating back to their time in All Ages Read Together. Dominion High School senior Heidi Moser was one of those first students. She said as she got older, she realized how much that program helped her, and how much further along she was than other students.
“I have this one very specific memory that there’s no way I’m ever going to forget it,” she said. “We were reading ‘The Mitten,’ so we made this cute little glove, and we had all the little animals inside of it. And I don’t know what it was about it per se, but it was just something that’s always really stuck with me.” “It was so much more than reading,” she added. “It was so much more than learning itself. It was the relationships I made. It was the overall experiences I got out of it.” All Ages Read Together provides help for students who may not have the chance to go to preschool, and who can start their
education behind their peers who did. The program offers children free preschool, with help from senior citizens with a lifetime of learning and reading to share. For Heidi’s mother AnnMarie, at the time a young mother with a husband still in school, it was a welcome help. She said every since Heidi took part, she’s always had a book in her hands. (Up next, Heidi said: “Angels and Demons,” by Dan Brown.) “She’s a senior now and she did this program when she was three and four. She still remembers her first teacher,”
Members of the Board of Supervisors’ Transportation and Land Use Committee are holding a monthslong discussion on where data centers should—and should not—go in Loudoun, as the industry looks to push into new territory. While an important part of Loudoun’s tax base—so large, in fact, that the county is working to reduce its reliance on taxes from the industry—data centers also draw many complaints, especially when near homes, thanks to their large scale, noisy infrastructure and environmental impacts. The discussion was prompted in part by the realization that data centers are permitted by-right along much of the Rt. 7 corridor, which has historically been protected from that kind of industrial development. The committee previously recommended the full board work quickly to establish a zoning overlay preventing data centers along that corridor, but supervisors instead sent the issue back to committee for a larger discussion. That discussion began in April, with more planned at
READ TOGETHER continues on page 39
DATA CENTERS continues on page 38
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HealthWorks’ Jameson Prepares to Step Down BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com
A giant of the nonprofit community in Loudoun and the region is getting ready to step down from the organization she helped build. Carol Jameson is the CEO of HealthWorks for Northern Virginia, an organization she helped assemble 10 years ago, providing a range of medical care at locations in Loudoun, Herndon and Reston with several more locations on the way in Sterling, Chantilly and Fairfax. At the time it was created, she was running the Jeanie Schmidt Free Clinic in Herndon, and saw the need for their services continue to grow as they reached their capacity. In 2012, the clinic merged with the Loudoun Community Health Center, creating HealthWorks. “We worked very collaboratively, sort of put aside our individual identities just to make a larger organization that really could more effectively meet the community needs—because, again, there was a lot of need,” she said. Having a single organization with multiple locations, she said, both helps serve more people—for many of whom transportation and time off work can be difficult to come by— and think more broadly about community partnerships. And to this day, as Loudoun’s population grows, so does the need. She said while Loudoun’s population has exploded, the poverty rate has remained essentially the same—meaning more people every year that need help, even before COVID-19. Some things are familiar, such as
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
Dr. Tonya Adkins, new HealthWorks CEO, and retiring CEO Carol Jameson.
families in need who don’t know there’s help available, or who, for various reasons, are scared to reach out. “I came out of the AIDS world in the late ‘80s, so that’s where I first started seeing barriers to health care utilization. And at that time it was stigma, it was poverty, it was marginalization, and it was, of course, enormous fear—just unfounded fear, but still, enormous fear,” Jameson said. “And there will always be those sorts of challenges. There’s still stigma, maybe for a different population. And there’s certainly the impact of language, culture, transportation, fear of health care if you haven’t had access to it, I could go on and on.”
In a time when the need continues to grow—but also at a time with renewed energy, funding and awareness around nonprofits, brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic—she will hand the reins to HealthWorks’ current Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Tonya Adkins. Adkins, too, has a longtime passion for community health. She began her career as a Navy physician, an OB-GYN, where she met her husband, a career Marine. After leaving the Navy, she went into private practice, moving around, and ended up working part-time in obstetrics for the Fairfax County Health Department. The family would move again to Japan, then California—where she again worked in
a health center—before coming back to Northern Virginia. She was trying to get in touch with the health department when she accidentally dialed HealthWorks. She offered her services as an OB-GYN, and within days she was in the door. She said that was almost six years ago. Today, she has a lot of ideas—for example, more pediatric clients and services. “I think that often our patients, because of some of those social determinants of health, their children don’t get the care that they need, because the parents have other issues that they’re dealing with,” Adkins said. “You know, ‘do I take off work to bring my cute doctor, or do I go to work so I can feed my child?’ So there are dynamics that are at play, and if we could kind of remove some of those barriers so kids would have easy access to care, I think that would be great.” She also envisions more services for the Afghan population, more services for immigrant populations and expanding into new communities, for example. There could even be clinics based in schools—another way to get help to children in need. “That’s an endeavor that would require significant resources, so it’s not something to take lightly, but it is a model. There’s a whole school-based clinic association in Alexandria,” Jameson said. Other human services nonprofit leaders said Jameson has had an big impact. “As a founding member of the Loudoun Human Services Network more JAMESON continues on page 39
Thodos Found Guilty of Attempted Murder in Walmart Shooting Case BY NICK CHESHIRE AND NORMAN K. STYER
After nearly five days of testimony and a day of deliberations, a Loudoun Circuit Court jury last week handed down guilty verdicts against a Sterling man who shot at two deputies—severely injuring one— last year in the Dulles Crossing Walmart store. Steven E. Thodos faces sentences of 20 years to life in prison on the three most serious charges, two counts of attempted capital murder of a police officer and aggravated malicious wounding. He also was found guilty of two counts of using a firearm in the commission of a felony,
which carry mandatory minimum threeyear prison sentences, and grand larceny. The jury acquitted Thodos on two charges of malicious wounding of two store security officers and Thodos two related firearms charges. A new state law allows the defendant to choose whether to be sentenced by the jury or the trial judge. Thodos asked to be sentenced by a judge. A sentencing hearing date has not been set. Thodos is scheduled for another jury
trial starting Sept. 20, to determine whether he is guilty of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. That charge was severed from the main case so that his prior criminal history would not be placed in evidence. The incident began just before 5 p.m. Jan. 2, 2021, when loss prevention officers at the Sterling Walmart detained Thodos on suspicion of stealing items, claiming he was “skip scanning” merchandise at the checkout—that is, putting some items with his purchases without processing them in the payment system. Thodos was being held in a room with the civilian security officers and two other suspected shoplifters when Deputy First
Class Camron Gentry arrived. The suspect resisted the deputy’s efforts to pat him down and search him. When Deputy First Class Charles Ewing arrived, they tried together but were thrown to the ground. They said Thodos then pulled out a handgun and fired at them. The loss prevention officers also sustained injuries. As the suspect ran from the security office and out of the store, Ewing fired shots at Thodos, striking him in the arm. Thodos then stole a pickup from a nearby business and led law enforcement on a chase down Rt. 28 into Fairfax County, where he crashed and later was arrested. The evidence in the case revolved THODOS continues on page 39
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Loudoun
ON THE Agenda Nominations Sought for Signatures of Loudoun
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) applauds after introducing an audience member during her annual State of the County address May 25.
Mental Health Resumes Same-Day Services
‘That is Loudoun’s Story’
Randall Delivers State of the County BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com
County Chair Phyllis J. Randall delivered a defiant and triumphant portrayal of Loudoun County at her seventh annual State of the County address May 25. “Over the past year, there have been quite a few people, for quite a few reasons, who have felt the need to highlight what they think they know about Loudoun. While I would like to assume all those people had the best of intentions, it’s likely some may have had other, less commendable motives for making Loudoun the center point of their attention,” Randall said. Loudoun County’s schools, elected officials and election officers have been
the target of national conservative attacks for the past two years. Candidates and political groups have sought to fundraise, remove Democrats and elect Republican candidates capitalizing on a sexual assault scandal in the schools and arguing against antiracist curriculum, while the Office of Election’s work to outsource handling absentee ballots to an out-of-town contractor has been answered with suspicions from the county Republican party about election integrity. But Randall highlighted Loudoun’s successes, including in schools, in business, and in education. As she has done in years past, she highlighted individuals emblematic or key to those successes, such as Department of Economic Development Executive Director Buddy
The Loudoun County Design Cabinet is seeking nominations from architects, builders, and the design community for the 2022 Signatures of Loudoun Awards program. The awards recognize buildings and public spaces that reflect outstanding design, renovation, adaptive reuse and visually groundbreaking projects throughout the county. The Design Cabinet considers nominations for awards in eight categories: details; familiar, for exceptional attention given to a project’s surroundings; infrastructure; interiors; makeovers, for historic renovation and adaptive reuse projects that preserve a piece of Loudoun’s history; pace setters, for recent visually groundbreaking projects; public spaces; and legends, for projects or places that have stood the test of time” over 25 years or more. For more information and to make a nomination go to loudoun.gov/SignaturesofLoudoun. Nominations are open through July 22.
Rizer, Reston Limousine President Kristina Bouweiri, and Sarah Coyle Etro who has led the county staff on affordable housing initiatives. She also highlighted the difficult job done by teachers. “Across the nation the past two years have been extraordinarily difficult for educators in our public and private school systems. If like me, you’ve spent any time in our classrooms, you’ll understand how challenging it is to be a teacher,” she said. “Our educators are asked to be psychologists, nurses, counselors, coaches, mentors and, for some students, the only adult to nurture the potential of that STATE OF THE COUNTY continues on page 6
The Loudoun County Department of Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Developmental Services has resumed in-person same-day access services. These services include screening for eligibility and assessment for a behavioral health outpatient, psychosocial rehabilitation and behavioral health case management services. MHSADS has been offering same-day access services by telehealth only since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and is now offering some in-person services. Same-day access allows a person who calls or appears at a MHSADS clinic during its hours of operation to be assessed that same ON THE AGENDA continues on page 7
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State of the County continued from page 5 young person. If you take the time to talk to teachers, you’ll realize not only do they extend themselves emotionally—all too often, they literally spend their own funds to outfit their classrooms.” She highlighted the work of the nonprofit Loudoun Education Foundation, and introduced Executive Director Danielle Nadler and Director of Development Kari Murphy. And she pointed to the success in Loudoun’s public schools, which are consistently ranked among the top schools in the state and nation, with standardized testing scores and on-time graduation rates well ahead of other school systems. Randall also pointed to Loudouners’
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On Friday, two days after delivering her annual State of the County address to a packed Loudoun County boardroom, County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) announced she had tested positive for COVID-19. Randall said she made the announcement about an hour after testing positive, and took a test every day this week—testing negative every time until Friday. “Out of an abundance of caution and because I’m in the public so
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efforts to welcome Afghan evacuees, support each other during the COVID-19 pandemic, and even support other communities. “Others may believe they know who we are, but they don’t understand. The greatness of Loudoun resides in the goodness of our people, and our people are the only true authors of Loudoun’s story,” Randall said. “For the past two years, we have been tested by fire, but we have emerged stronger, more resilient, and more committed than ever to Loudoun’s future, a bright future full of hope, vitality, and equal opportunity for every Loudoun resident. That is Loudoun’s story.” n Editor’s note: Loudoun Education Foundation Executive Director Danielle Nadler is a former managing editor of Loudoun Now.
After State of the County Address, Randall Announces COVID-19 Positive Test
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often, I test every three or four days,” she wrote in the brief announcement. “This week, because of my State of the County address, I tested every day. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday I tested negative. However, yesterday I was unusually tired, my throat was ‘scratchy’ and I had a cough. I don’t have a fever and thankfully, no other person in my house has tested positive. “I’m at home where I will remain until I have two consecutive negative tests.” Randall is the first member of the Board of Supervisors to announce a positive COVID-19 test. n
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ON THE Agenda continued from page 5
day instead of having to wait for an appointment. In-person same-day services will be available Monday/Wednesday/Friday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., at the Shenandoah Office Building, 102 Heritage Way in Leesburg. For telehealth services, call 703-7715155. Phone lines open at 8:30 a.m. For more information visit loudoun.gov/mhsads or call 703-771-5155.
County Invites Nonprofit Input for ARPA Funding Nonprofits serving Loudoun residents are encouraged to complete a survey to assist the county in prioritizing programs for the second round of American Rescue Plan Act funding. This survey is a follow-up to the series of related listening sessions earlier this year. Loudoun County expects to receive a second distribution of ARPA funding this year, approximately another $40.2 million. The second portion of funding includes an allocation of $2.5 million
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to nonprofits with a focus on continued COVID-19-related services. The survey will close Friday, June 10. For more information and to find the survey, go to loudoun.gov/arpa.
Art on display at Gallery One, a gallery space in the foyer of the Loudoun County government center in Leesburg at 1 Harrison Street.
Linear Parks and Trails Ribbon Cutting June 11 Loudoun County will host a ribbon cutting for a new segment of the county’s Linear Parks & Trails System at the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy in Ashburn along the Broad Run. The 2,200-foot section of trail, created in partnership with the academy and the Potomac Heritage Trail Association, will become part of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail and the Loudoun County Linear Parks and Trails network. Loudoun is developing a countywide system of connected linear parks and trails. Learn more at loudoun.gov/linearparksandtrails. The ribbon cutting will be Saturday, June 11 at 10 a.m. Parking will be at 45299 Research Place, Ashburn, a short distance from the trail. n
Will Murphy/Loudoun Now
Supervisors Eye Countywide Arts Plan BY WILL MURPHY
County supervisors serving on the Ad Hoc Committee on Advisory Boards this month voted in support of a proposal for a countywide arts plan. Members of the county’s Art Advisory Board suggested the $450,000 arts plan based on improvements in Virginia Beach. It could include projects such as more formal gallery space for art, relocation of pieces for accessibility, sculpture walks added to public courtyards and garden spaces, and a mobile art van intended to spread all types of art to new communities. The proposal was met with excitement
from county supervisors who had praised the Art Advisory Board in their work of cataloging all of the government owned artworks and other improvements around the county. Supervisor Sylvia R. Glass (D-Broad Run) added that along with these projects, the board should also look into renovations on previously established areas for the arts. The Ad Hoc Committee voted 3-0 to recommend the full Board of Supervisors fund the arts plan. n Will Murphy is a senior at Tuscarora High School completing his capstone project at Loudoun Now.
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JUNE 2, 2022
Leesburg
Town Council Expands Loitering Ordinance to Address Homeless Encampments BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
The Leesburg Town Council last week approved some tweaks to its loitering ordinance in hopes of providing law enforcement another tool to address residents’ complaints. According to the staff report, individuals regularly occupying the same area of public property have proven difficult to prosecute under the current Town Code.
Staff members reviewed how other jurisdictions respond the conduct and discussed alternatives to law enforcement action. The proposed changes would make it illegal for anyone “to stand, assemble or loiter upon any sidewalk, street, public ground or public way in the Town so as to obstruct, hinder or impede free passage upon or along same or obstruct, hinder or impede free ingress or egress to and from any place of business, institution or public building or property.” It also would be
illegal to occupy a sidewalk or other public space in a way that would exclude or interfere with the general public’s use and enjoyment. The proposal also would require offenders comply with the property owner or police requests to move. According to the staff report, the town Police Department “typically takes a personal health and welfare-based approach, rather than an enforcement first approach with respect to homeless individuals. Officers conduct regular welfare checks on
homeless individuals as well as providing them with information about services and shelters and offering them transportation. … However, both LPD and the Town Attorney’s Office also believe that amending the Town Code in this manner will provide an additional tool in the event that there are individuals who decline services and unreasonably occupy and tend to monopolize public space.” Violations of the ordinance are subject to fine of up to $500, but repeat offenders could face up to six months in jail. n
Town Looks to Accessory Dwellings for Affordable Housing BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
Leesburg’s new Town Plan lays out policies to promote greater housing choice and the Town Council has been discussing ways to promote affordable housing. That led last week to a vote to draft Zoning Ordinance amendments that would open the path to build more accessory dwellings in town. While moving ahead with the more permissive regulations, several council members are worried they could be creat-
ing more neighborhood problems. Accessory dwellings are independent residences located on the same lot as the principal house. Currently, they are not permitted in all neighborhoods and require special exception review by the Planning Commission and Town Council. Zoning Administrator Michael Watkins updated the council on the project May 24. He said the staff will review whether to allow larger accessory dwellings, whether to allow them in more zoning districts, whether some should be permitted by-right and what the parking requirements should be. That’s likely to
Summer Concerts on the Green Start Saturday The Acoustic on the Green summer concert series kicks off Saturday with a performance by the Caribbean Vibe Steel Drum Band. The free weekly shows start at 7 p.m. on the Town Green, 25 W. Market St. No smoking, alcohol, or pets are allowed. Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged. n
result in a lot of options for the council and commissioner to consider. Mayor Kelly Burk said allowing more housing options seemed like a good idea in theory, but worried about the impact on neighbors. She, along with other council members, worried about allowing larger sizes. Councilwoman Kari Nacy recommended the requirement for special exception review also be retained. The council voted unanimously to allow the staff to draft recommendations for review in the months ahead. n
VMFA Traveling Museum Makes Leesburg Stop The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts’ traveling museum and art studio will visit Leesburg on Saturday, June 4 and Sunday, June 5. The 53-foot, climate-controlled Volvo trailer features the exhibition: “Revealing and Obscuring Identity: Portraits from the Permanent Collection” that includes paintings, photographs, and prints by more than 10 artists exploring portraiture through a variety of periods, cultures, and styles. Themes include nature of art, the perception of beauty, and the cultural influences on identity. The exhibit will be open to the public at Virginia Village shopping center, located at 1 Fairfax Street, SE, on Saturday, June 4 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sunday, June 5 from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free. The event coincides with the 15th Annual Western Loudoun Art & Studio Tour. Learn more about the museum at vmfa.museum/exhibitions/ exhibitions/vmfa-on-the-road. n
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JUNE 2, 2022
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Artist Creates Card for Peace, Ukraine Support BY OLIVIA AUSNEHMER
Loudoun County resident Sabina Puppo pushes for “Peace in Our Time” with her fundraiser intended to support and protect displaced Ukrainian refugees who are experiencing hardships. The artist said her Peace in Our Time greeting cards are a concept to spread love, joy, and tranquility. The 5x7 cards feature nine original oil paintings created by Puppo—all telling stories relating to a dreamscape, or an earthly paradise, with a goal of spreading positivity during hard times. The paintings have themes of sharing, protection, gifts and the joy of being outside in nature. “Being in nature resonated with me which is why I chose these specific paintings for the greeting cards,” Puppo said. One of the paintings used on the greeting cards titled “Uphill Run,” shows a couple running outside with their dog. “We can go out and run. People in Ukraine cannot; they have a bombarded land. Puppo describes the idea behind the “Peace in Our Time” slogan as a “sincere wish for peace and for calm.” The hope
Photo By Olivia Ausnehmer
Sabina Puppo paints in her Leesburg studio.
for an outcome of peace across the world, especially in Ukraine, is what brought this fundraiser to light. “I wanted people to be equipped with a tool to reach out to other people,” Puppo
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anyone of your choosing who may need some words of encouragement, affection, or gratitude. You can write a message on the inside of the greeting card, and then mail the card out to someone in need. “Be the calmness and tranquility you want to see in the world, and for me, this fundraiser is a way of doing that,” Puppo said. “Someone in Ukraine will be thankful.” All of the profits from the sale of the cards will go to the UN Refugee Agency to be dispersed to Ukrainian refugees. “I’m giving money to a place where I know it will get to where it needs to go,” Puppo said. A single greeting card is $7, a set of three cards is $20, and a pack of nine cards is $50. They are available at the Very Virginia Shop in downtown Leesburg, or online at sabinapuppo.com/ made-in-loudoun. For more information, go to sabinapuppo.com. n Olivia Ausnehmer studies broadcast journalism and political science at Penn State University and is a summer intern with Loudoun Now.
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JUNE 2, 2022
Education
SCHOOL notebook
Staggered Terms Signed into Law; School Board Members will Draw Lots BY HAYLEY MILON BOUR hbour@loudounnow.com
Gov. Glenn Youngkin signed a bill enacting staggered terms for Loudoun County School Board members on May 27, after his attempt to use the bill to shorten terms for board members failed in the state Senate. The bill, sponsored by Del. David Reid (D-32), sought to make technical updates
to 2021 legislation to stagger the terms of the nine School Board members. It passed in the state house with a 100-0 vote, and in the Senate with a 39-0-1 vote. The attempt to move the elections was met with praise from some School Board critics, while enraging Democrats. “I think what has happened is this has gone way beyond the political issues that were going on that the governor was using and has now really crossed the line and
gotten into the undermining of democratic principles,” Reid said during an April 20 legislative debrief. The House voted to adopt Youngkin’s amendment on April 27 with a 51-48 vote, but the senate rejected the recommendation the same day with a vote of 22-18. The Loudoun County Electoral Board will draw lots to determine the members of four of the nine county electoral districts who will be elected for two-year terms. n
Ziegler, Mahedavi Meet with LEAF Members for Inaugural Meeting
The School Board voted unanimously May 24 to name the Blue Ridge Middle School library after Sheila Lightner. The longest-serving faculty member in school history, Sheila Lightner-Nakles worked at the school from 1974 to 2020. She began as an English teacher before taking over the library. “Her deep understanding that a school is always about relationships first helped to transform our building in the ’70s from a new school to the connected, thriving Bulldog family of today. Her stewardship helped that family concept span the decades that our school has stood,” Blue Ridge Principal Brion Bell wrote in his letter to the School Board. Bell added that Lightner was the “biggest champion” of every student, teacher, and staff member. Lightner-Nakles was present as she was honored in a presentation during the meeting.
June 3 will be Gun Violence Awareness Day
BY HAYLEY MILON BOUR hbour@Loudounnow.com
The Loudoun Education Alliance of Families, or LEAF, held its inaugural meeting on Tuesday, joined by Superintendent Scott Ziegler and Harris Mahedavi (Ashburn). The committee nominees and the charter and bylaws were approved by the School Board on May 24. There are 97 seats. LEAF is an initiative of Chairman Jeff Morse (Dulles), who sought to retool the defunct Loudoun Education Alliance of Parents (LEAP). When he introduced his idea for the committee on March 22, he likened it to the Minority Student Achievement Advisory Committee and the Special Education Advisory Committee. “It’s kind of a two-way communication between School Board members and the community,” Morse said. Mahedavi, who said he was filling in for Morse at Tuesday’s meeting, sat among members and participated in icebreaker activities. He said he feels the committee will fill a void that has been missing the past few years. “I think this was a direct response to the feedback we heard from parents last year, that they wanted to have a voice,”
Blue Ridge Library Named for Longtime Librarian
Hayley Milon Bour/ Loudoun Now
Harris Mahedavi (Ashburn) speaks with parents from the Ashburn cluster of the newly formed LEAF.
he said. “Parents always have a voice and representation, but this was a structured way for them to give feedback, and to also get involved in the policymaking in a structured way.” Ziegler welcomed the group, and immediately addressed an issue at the forefront of parents’ minds: school safety. “It’s a time to mourn those we’ve lost. Those students who’ve lost their lives, and those teachers who’ve sacrificed their lives. But it’s also a time to talk about civil safety and gun safety in broader terms,” he said. He called on the parents to reach out to elected representatives to enact gun con-
trol legislation, saying that campus safety measures can only go so far. “While we do everything we can to keep the physical plant of the school safe, I don’t think that you as parents or we as educators want to turn our schools into low-security prisons that are not welcoming or inviting,” he said. After introductions, the group was briefed on Loudoun County Public Schools guidelines and advisories for communication and social media usage. The group will meet monthly. Members can be parents, guardians, and primary caregivers, and will serve one-year terms. n
Hours after the tragedy on May 24 in Uvalde, TX, the School Board voted to make June 3 Gun Violence Awareness Day. A proclamation was read by Atoosa Reaser (Algonkian), and Brenda Sheridan (Sterling) requested the board take a moment of silence. “From Columbine to today, it never stops, I’m just heartbroken,” Harris Mahedavi (Ashburn) said before the board voted, reacting to the shooting at Robb Elementary School. The proclamation states that firearms are the leading cause of death among children and teens in the state. Superintendent Scott Ziegler read his statement on the Robb Elementary School shooting. The proclamation was passed with a 7-0 vote, with John Beatty (Catoctin) and Andrew Hoyler (Broad Run) not present for the vote. “Schools should and must be a place where students and staff feel secure,” Ziegler said. He added that in the days following the shooting in Uvalde, there would be an enhanced deputy presence surrounding Loudoun elementary schools. n
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Interfaith Leaders Hold Vigil for Uvalde Leaders in Loudoun’s faith community organized a small vigil Tuesday morning outside the Loudoun County Public Schools administration building in Broadlands to demonstrate support for the victims of gun violence in schools, most recently in Uvalde, TX where an 18-year-old fatally shot 19 students and two teachers at an elementary school with a legally purchased rifle. Rabbi Neil Tow led an opening prayer, followed by Mikaeel Martinez Jaka reading the names of the victims and their ages. Rev. David Milam, the event organizer, led a Christian prayer and several minutes of silence. More vigils are planned over the next two weeks. n
LEA Still Short Membership for Unionization BY HAYLEY MILON BOUR
Interfaith leaders hold a brief vigil for victims of gun violence in schools outside the Loudoun County Public Schools administration building Tuesday, May 31. Contributed
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The Loudoun Education Association is still gathering membership authorization signatures, despite sending a letter to the school division in October 2021 requesting to begin collective bargaining. “The original numbers we received from LCPS, we did not include some positions that are housed at the administration building, believing those were employees who supervised other employees. But those employees needed to be included in our count for certified employees” LEA President Sandy Sullivan said. Additionally, the group originally sought to satisfy the legislative requirement of a simple majority of employees. Now, Sullivan said, the group is seeking to obtain 70% of employees to sign authorizations. She said that decision was made in the last month. “The new goal we have is 70% because of the pushback we’ve received along through the process. So we want to make sure that between retirees and resignations, we don’t fall short,” Sullivan said. “We want to demonstrate to the School Board employees’ strong support for collective bargaining.” She did not share the number for the membership shortfall, but she said that the group will need to work through the summer to meet the new goal. State legislation passed in 2021 allowed public employees in Virginia to engage in collective bargaining with their employers. To represent a workforce, a union must prove support from a majority of employees in a defined bargaining unit. LCPS employees who with to be represented by LEA do not need to be members of the organization. n
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consumer items found in a passenger’s baggage and appraised at more than $500,000, if the items were authentic. According to the report, the seizure started April 10 when CBP officers referred a Laurel, MD, woman to a secondary baggage inspection after she arrived on a flight from South Korea. She stated that she returned from Thailand with six pieces of luggage, but declared, both verbally and in writing, that she did not purchase any merchandise on her trip. However, when airline employees brought the woman’s baggage to the CBP inspection area, they presented 12 bags that were tagged to the traveler. Then CBP officers discovered newly purchased and potentially counterfeit clothing in the first two bags that they inspected. After completing inspections of all 12 bags, officers retained almost 300
pieces of clothing, scarves, hats, shoes, and jewelry bearing designed brand names of Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Burberry, Prada, Gianni Versace and others. Last week, the CBP’s Centers of Excellence and Expertise confirmed the items were counterfeit and appraised the shipment at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $509,431, had the items been authentic. CBP officers seized the shipment on May 24. CBP is withholding the traveler’s name because she has not been criminally charged.
Ashburn Deaths Investigated as Murder-Suicide Case The deaths of two adults at an Ashburn home on Tuesday is being investigated as a suspected domestic-related murder-suicide, the Sheriff’s Office stated May 26. Deputies were called to Old Line Terrace along Belmont Ridge Road shortly before 9:30 a.m. May 24 for a report of SAFETY BRIEFS continues on page 13
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SAFETY briefs continued from page 12
a man, identified as John N. Ratib Sharmoukh, 45, who was located dead outside the home. An adult female, Mariam A. Farouk Kamal, 31, was found dead inside the residence. The investigation is being conducted in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and the Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office.
LOUDOUNNOW.COM be fenced on all sides with a self-closing and latching gate. A U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket should be worn for water sports such as tubing, skiing, or jet skiing. For kids, officials recommend asking the lifeguard how deep the water is, always swim with a buddy, never eat candy or chewing gum while swimming, and never jump or dive unless a lifeguard or adult say it’s okay. If you hear thunder or see lightning, get out of the water right away. n
PAGE 13
PUBLISHER’S NOTICE We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap. All real estate advertised herein is subject to Virginia’s fair housing law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept advertising for real estate that violates the fair housing law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. For more information or to file a housing complaint call the Virginia Fair Housing Office at (804) 367-9753.
fairhousing@dpor.virginia.gov • www.fairhousing.vipnet.org
Juveniles Suspected of Pellet Gun Shooting Spree The Sheriff’s Office is investing a string of Wednesday night shootings in which four people reported they were hit with pellets. According to the report, shortly after 7:30 p.m. May 25, deputies were called to Killawog Terrace in Ashburn, where a man reported he had been shot by projectiles from what he believed was a BB gun. He said the shots were fired from a black Volkswagen Beetle. A short time later, another person called 911 to report that he and another person had been struck by pellets as well. They also reported the suspects were in a black Volkswagen Beetle Another victim reported that while running on Marblehead Drive toward Gloucester Parkway, he observed a black Volkswagen drive in his direction and a projectile was fired at him, striking his sunglasses. Deputies found the vehicle in the area of Gloucester Parkway and Ashburn Village Boulevard. Four juvenile males were in the car along with three Orbeez-type pellet guns.
Loudoun Fire-Rescue Offers Pool Safety Tips As swimming pools across the area open this Memorial Day weekend, Loudoun fire-rescue officials are reminding people to be vigilant about pool and water safety. According to the National Safety Council, not including boating incidents, on average about 10 people die from drowning every day in the United States. Loudoun officials recommend adults actively supervisor children at all times in the water, teach them to obey posted swimming rules and restrictions, and always know your location and have a way to call 911. Pools and spas should
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JUNE 2, 2022
Nonprofit
SimplyBe Wins National SourceAmerica Award
SIMPLYBE continues on page 16
Tillett Scholarship Launches with $220K Gift The Community Foundation for Loudoun and Northern Fauquier Counties received a $220,000 gift to establish a Val and Bill Tillett Scholarship. The gift will provide scholarships for students enrolled in Northern Virginia Community College’s horticulture program—of which Val Tillett is a graduate. Val and Bill Tillett were longtime dairy farmers with deep roots in Loudoun’s agricultural community. Val Tillet worked in advertising in New York City before moving to Loudoun and seeking to express her artistic abilities in stained glass and, eventually, in landscaping. She said it took 12 years to complete her landscaping degree at the community college, supported by the teachers in the program. “The Tilletts are a community
LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
Leesburg’s SimpleBe Coffee has been awarded a national SourceAmerica 2022 Achievement Award for their work to offer employment for people with disabilities. SourceAmerica connects government customers and other organizations to a national network of nonprofit agencies that hire people with disabilities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, SimplyBe contracted with ECHO, a Loudoun disability services and employment nonprofit, to offer work to people interested in working at the coffee shop. SimplyBe hired six people with disabilities at ECHO to work in three teams during different shifts, five days a week. It was a lifeline for those employees as many of ECHO’s work sites remained closed due to the pandemic. SimplyBe began as a venture by nonprofit Tree of Life and its co-founder and
GIVING back
Lindsey Somers/Loudoun Now
Staff and volunteers at Leesburg’s SimplyBe Coffee, which this year won a national SourceAmerica 2022 Achievement Award.
GIVING BACK continues on page 17
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PAGE 15
Celebrating 75 Years of the Marshall Plan LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
“The truth of the matter is that Europe’s requirements for the next three or four years of foreign food and other essential products—principally from America—are so much greater than her present ability to pay that she must have substantial additional help or face economic, social and political deterioration of a very grave character.” With those words, spoken on June 5, 1947, at Harvard University, Secretary of State George C. Marshall made the case for massive American investment in the devastated economies of post-World War II Europe. The call he issued that day was to shake off the American instinct to isolate after engaging in an international conflict and to stay engaged in the world at a scale that was unprecedented in American history. On June 5, a special program at Marshall’s Leesburg home, Dodona Manor, will reflect on those pivotal days in 1947 and 1948 when President Truman signed the plan into law, and share with a new generation of Americans the enduring lessons of Marshall’s leadership during crucial moments in history. Starting at 12:30 p.m., an hour of live
U.S. Department of State
A portrait of George C. Marshall while serving as Secretary of State in 1947 and 1948.
music will be performed by the Main Street Brass Quintet. The program will begin at 1:30 p.m. when historians and others will be on hand to reflect on the seminal moment when George Marshall’s skills as an ethical leader contributed to a successful plan and generated the broad public and political support it needed to pass congressional muster. n
SCAN ME
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 16
JUNE 2, 2022
SimplyBe continued from page 14
for
Money Talks. Now, Teach it to Hug From personalized family foundations, to memorial funds, to scholarship funds, to donor-advised funds, we can help you make a difference that never ends.
Since 1999, the Community Foundation for Loudoun and Northern Fauquier Counties has helped generous donors support a variety of charitable causes in our region. We salute the leaders who wrapped their vision and commitment—and arms—around this community to create and sustain a permanent charitable resource.
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CommunityFoundationLF.org (703) 779-3505
Executive Director Paul Smith. “It’s a way to not only have a coffee shop where we can interact with the community and share the love of Jesus Christ, which is our number one goal, but it also allows us to employ people with disabilities who might not otherwise have a job,” said SimplyBe volunteer and supervisor Susie Smith. “It gives them purpose and meaning, and it’s something that gives them value, allows them to earn some money, but also learn important life skills such as interacting with others, learning how to work a cash register, deal with money, make drinks, and so many other things.” On May 11, SourceAmerica announced the coffee shop has been presented with a Business Partnership Award, which recognizes a business that has partnered with a SourceAmerica-affiliated nonprofit agency to increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities. “People with disabilities are an essential part of our nation’s workforce. This year’s award winners have demonstrated strength, leadership, and tenacity through
the recent challenges the workforce has faced,” said SourceAmerica President and CEO Richard Belden. “The SourceAmerica Achievement Award winners are shaping a more innovative and inclusive workforce.” “An award like this is so important because there’s not enough business opportunities out there where people are focused on employing people with disabilities and that is the entire intention behind what we do,” Smith said. “… The award is phenomenal because it helps to promote businesses that are employing people with disabilities, but also helps to promote SimpleBe coffee and draws more people in here so that our employees can have more interactions with individuals in the community.” This year’s awards recognized businesses and nonprofits across the country, from San Francisco, CA to Austin, TX to Washington, DC, for their work. SimplyBe and the other winners of this year’s awards will be recognized at the Xforce Conference in Dallas, TX, May 23-25. n Lindsey Somers contributed to this report. She is a senior at Woodgrove High School completing her capstone project at Loudoun Now.
! D A R G A E T LA
U T A R G CON
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 2, 2022
GIVING back continued from page 14
gem and Loudoun legacy,” said Community Foundation CEO Amy Owen. “They’ve generously shared tangible and touchable history with Loudoun County, and now, they’ve taken a powerful step that will touch lives today, tomorrow, and into forever through vocational education and the Val and Bill Tillett Scholarship Fund. We couldn’t be more honored to steward their legacy.”
Loudoun Nonprofits Receive Grants The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia recently announced the award of grants totaling $631,725 to 50 nonprofits in the region.
Loudoun-based organizations receiving grants were: INMED PARTNERSHIPS FOR CHILDREN ($10,000) to expand The Hangout,
a program offering a welcome, inclusive, and non-stigmatizing environment for youth in underserved communities.
USTA MID-ATLANTIC SECTION, INC. ($10,000)
to support the Girls Rule the Court after school program in Sterling. LOUDOUN LITERACY COUNCIL ($10,000) to
support programs and operations that provide basic language, life, and professional skills to non-English speaking resident. A FARM LESS ORDINARY ($20,000) to sup-
port salaries for the adults with disabilities who work on the farm, and to assist them in finding future employment. SHELTER HOUSE, INC. ($7,000) to provide
direct assistance to Loudoun Homeless Service Center clients for frequently incurred expenses like housing application fees, security deposits, utilities, rental assistance, and childcare or transportation costs. This supports employment as clients become stably housed.
LOUDOUN SYMPHONY ASSOCIATION, INC.
($10,000) to expand the 2022-2023 concert series presented by the Loudoun Symphony Orchestra. n
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PAGE 17
★★★★
Marshall Plan of the
CELEBRATING 75 YEARS ★★★★
RAIN OR SHINE OUTDOOR EVENT Dodona Manor • Leesburg, Virginia Sunday, June 5, 2022 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Please join us to celebrate George C. Marshall’s leadership during a critical moment in history his June 5, 1947 address at Harvard University. Refreshments • Dodona Manor Open House • Free Parking at Loudoun County Government Garage georgecmarshall.org/events Please RSVP to events@georgecmarshall.org
PAGE 18
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 2, 2022
Memorial Day
Remembering ‘The Gift They Have Given to Us All’ BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
LEESBURG A crowd gathered in the courthouse square Monday morning for Leesburg’s annual Memorial Day Observance where Lt. Gen. Bruce T. Crawford urged them to never forget the sacrifices of those who have died in military service to the nation. “This day, like no other holiday reminds us of who we are as a nation and what we stand for as Americans,” said Crawford, a Leesburg-area resident who retired from the Army after 34 years of service. He recalled his “brush with mortality” while serving with the 82nd Airbourne Division in Fallujah, Iraq in December, 2003—when he questioned what would happen if he did not return. The thoughts included: What would become of his family, how would the nation recognize his service, would his service be in vain, what would be the fate of the paratroopers under his command—and what advice would he have for those left behind. That would be to never forget, he said. “Today we reflect on those who never left the battlefield for their service and sacrifice. And we live in gratitude each
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
Lt. Gen. Bruce T. Crawford and Leesburg Mayor Kelly Burk lay a wreath at the World War I memorial.
and every day for the precious gift that they have given to us all,” Crawford said. He noted the paradox of military service. “They are ordered to rise before the sun so that we can watch the sunset. They are ordered to stand at attention so that we can sit wherever we want. They are ordered to charge the hill so that we can build a house on one,” Crawford said.
“They are ordered to fight to uphold democracy around the world so that our sons and daughters can live freely anywhere in the world.” “There is no greater honor than to give honor to those who have fallen. The patriots we memorialize here today gave their last full measure of devotion not so we might mourn them—though we do—not so that our nation may honor their sacrifice—although it does. They gave their lives so that we might live ours. Everything that we hold precious in this country was made possible by Americans who
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
The Loudoun County High School Navy JROTC posts the colors during the 2022 Leesburg Memorial Day Observance.
gave their all. And because of them, our nation is stronger, safer and will always remain a beacon of hope and a beacon of freedom around the world,” Crawford said. The program also featured remarks by Mayor Kelly Burk and U.S. Rep. Jennifer Wexton and the laying of wreaths at the war memorials in courthouse square. n
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
Members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1177 in Leesburg get a photo with Lt. Gen. Bruce T. Crawford at the town’s Memorial Day commemoration.
After the removal of the Confederate War memorial, local residents killed during the Civil War—both Union and Confederate—were recognized with a temporary display of their names during the 2022 Memorial Day Observance in Leesburg.
LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 2, 2022
PAGE 19
‘Forever Changed by War’ ROUND HILL
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
Purcellville residents, the American Legion and others gather for a Memorial Day ceremony.
In Purcellville, a 21-Gun Salute PURCELLVILLE In Purcellville, residents gathered at
Town Hall to hear keynote remarks by Sergeant Eric M. Wilson, U.S. Army (retired) and then walked to the the teardrop intersection at Main Street, where Mayor Kwasi Fraser delivered additional remarks accompanied by a laying of wreaths, moment of silence and a 21-gun salute by the American Legion. n
In Round Hill, town leaders hosted a Memorial Day program on Saturday as part of the day-long Hometown Festival. Rear Admiral J. Scott Burhoe, whose 34-year military career including service as superintendent the U.S. Coast Guard Academy before retiring to his wife’s hometown in Round Hill, provided the keynote remarks. Burhoe grew up an Army brat and recalled the service of his father, who fought in World War I, Korea and Vietnam, to highlight that not all those lost to war died on the battlefield. “When he returned from Vietnam, he looked like the man who left the year before, but he was not the same person. He didn’t live long enough after returning to feel comfortable talking about all that he had seen. He never completely got his life back before he lost it. My family considers him a causality of the wars he fought,”
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Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
Rear Admiral J. Scott Burhoe and Mayor Scott Ramsey lay a memorial wreath at the flagpole in Round Hill’s Town Park.
Burhoe said. “He was one of thousands of veterans whose lives are forever changed by war.” “Let’s make this the best Memorial Day weekend ever. Let’s make it the best by celebrating the lives of those who sacrificed so much, by honoring the memory of those we lost, by caring for the many veterans who returned from war, and providing support for the families of those who did not return. God bless each of you, our friends, and our enemies so that we might live in peace on Earth.” n
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JUNE 2, 2022
BUSINESS announcements
Everybody has a
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A rendering for plans for Rivana at Innovation Station.
Dulles Committee to Hear Rivana Update
Who’s Yours? VOTING NOW OPEN FOR THIS YEAR’S LOUDOUN NOW FAVORITES.
VOTE TODAY! loudounnow.com/favorites Voting ends on July 1, 2022.
The Legislative & Economic Development Committee of the Committee for Dulles will hear an update on progress at Rivana at Innovation Station, a huge new development planned along Metro’s Silver Line. The 4.4 million-square-foot mixed-use development will straddle the Loudoun and Fairfax county line. Plans on the Loudoun side include 1,954 housing units, 1.8 million square feet of office space, a 185,000 square foot retail area, a 265-room hotel, and an 11-acre park. All of that is only the first phase of a planned 103-acre development. The property includes the formerly state-owned Center for Innovative Technology and the site of former plans for The Hub. Colin Chiarodo, senior development manager for the Rivana Innovation Station project, will offer an update on the development and on the entitlement process with Loudoun County on Thursday, June 2 at 9 a.m. Learn more at committeefordulles.org/events.
Cox Named President of JK Moving JK Moving Services has promoted David Cox to president. Cox will assume responsibility for dayto-day operations of the nation’s largest independently owned moving and storCox age company. Chuck Kuhn will remain CEO of the company he founded 40 years ago. “I am excited to announce the promotion of David Cox to president of JK Moving Services. He is a natural leader and
his industry knowledge, focus on technology and innovation, as well as keen business sense have helped our company grow even during the global pandemic,” Kuhn, stated in announcing the change. “I will remain firmly involved with the company, however responsibility for day-today operations for both the Residential and Commercial Divisions will rest with David. This move helps position us to take full advantage of new opportunities and changing market dynamics.” Cox served for five years as the company’s executive vice president for residential moving services, responsible for ensuring strategic growth and profitability across the division while managing operations and the overall residential team. Before joining JK, Cox served in senior leadership roles with some of the most prominent brands in the moving and storage industry. He graduated from Carleton College in Minnesota before serving two years in the Peace Corps teaching English to students in Albania. “JK Moving is an American success story—a company built from the ground up by a visionary founder with a great team and service. I am proud to be helping lead the next chapter, positioning this company for further growth and success,” Cox stated. Learn more at jkmoving.com.
Leesburg Starbucks Union Protests The newly formed union at the Leesburg Starbucks, which organized in March, led a picket line against management cutting their hours over Memorial Day weekend. According to a GoFundMe page, the schedule has had 100 hours trimmed and employees are struggling to pay bills— and some may not now meet the minimum number of hours to be eligible for health coverage.
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Post your job listings at NowHiringLoudoun.com Town of Leesburg Employment Opportunities Please visit www.leesburgva.gov/jobs for more information and to apply online. Resumes may be submitted as supplemental only. EOE/ADA. Regular Full-Time Positions Position
Department
Salary Range
Closing Date
Assistant Aquatics Supervisor
Parks & Recreation
$50,000-$76,882 DOQ
Open until filled
Biosolids Operator: Trainee, I, II, or Senior
Utilities
$50,000-$97,512 DOQ
Open until filled
IT Help Desk Technician II
Information Technology
$54,944-$93,954 DOQ
Open until filled
Police Officer
Police
$62,000-$89,590 DOQ
Open until filled
Project Manager
Utilities
$76,426-$130,688 DOQ
Open until filled
DRIVERS NEEDED Regular & CDL Call 703-737-3011
MAIDS NEEDED No evenings or weekends Pay starts at $15/hr
Recreation Center Supervisor
Parks & Recreation
$52,446-$95,178 DOQ
Open until filled
Small Business Development and Tourism Specialist
Economic Development
$67,175-$121,947 DOQ
Open until filled
Utility Inspector II
Utilities
$56,956-$97,512 DOQ
Open until filled
Utility Plant Operator: Trainee, I, II, or Senior
Utilities
$50,000-$97,512 DOQ
Open until filled
Utility Plant Technician or Senior Utility Plant Technician
Utilities
$50,000-$89,790 DOQ
Open until filled
Utility Systems Technician Trainee
Utilities
$50,000-$76,882 DOQ
Open until filled
Summer Positions Position
Department Maintenance Worker
Hourly Rate Utilities
Closing Date
$15.00
Open until filled
Flexible Part-Time Position Position
Please call 571-291-9746
Department
Hourly Rate
Closing Date
Parking Enforcement Officer
Finance
$16.86-$28.85 DOQ
Open until filled
Senior Engineer
Plan Review
$55.00-$70.00 DOQ
Open until filled
To review Ida Lee (Parks & Recreation) flexible part-time positions, please visit www.leesburgva.gov/jobs. Most positions will be filled at or near the minimum of the range. Dependent on qualifications. All Town vacancies may be viewed on Comcast Cable Channel 67 and Verizon FiOS Channel 35. NHLEmployerCard2.pdf
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Towns
AROUND towns
‘The Faster Pastor’ Takes on Loudoun Racing BY WILL MURPHY
Running just seems to come easy to Cory Welch. No matter the race or conditions, Welch has dominated local fun runs and charity races posting astonishing times and almost always placing first. Welch was the first to cross the line at the 2021 annual Turkey Trot 5K where he finished in a blazing 16 minutes and 40 seconds, the equivalent of running a 5:22 mile three times in a row as well as running a 33-minute 10K during this year’s Run the Greenway race. Welch has been running for as long as he can remember, joining his first organized team in middle school. He quickly ran through the ranks and made a name for himself during his high school years while living in Texas. His talent was discovered by Dallas Baptist University, where he ran at the Division II level for four years. After taking a six-year break from running for personal reasons, Welch rekindled his calling after a friend convinced him to take up the sport again. “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift,” Welch said. Once he was back, he was back. Welch took on every race in his way and faced the challenges given to
Contributed
Cory Welch crosses the finish line at May 7 Run the Greenway race.
him head on. To qualify for the Boston Marathon, Welch drove to Indiana just to find a race to run. He qualified and went on to post of time of 2:46:38 in Boston. Marathons aside, Welch brings his competitive nature to local races as well and for good reason. His winning time during the Run the Greenway race secured charity money for the nonprofit Tree of Life, which provides food for
people in need. Welch’s service to others does not stop at the finish line. A pastor at Purcellville Baptist Church, he is nicknamed “the faster pastor” by members. He said he believes that every person has a gift given to them, and finding that gift inside will lead to a person’s fulfillment in life. Outside of work and running Cory loves to coach his kids’ teams and be involved with their lives. Welch has also promoted the joy and discipline of running to newcomers through his group F3, a free to join fitness club that meets three times a week. After beginning with 15 people, the group has grown to over 100 strong spread over three locations. Welch hopes to create a strong system of accountability and support with this group who meet from 5:30 a.m. to 6:15 a.m. every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Welch said he believes this support will give others what a friend gave him to start running again. As the weather begins to heat up and more people hit the trails, Welch will not be slowing down anytime soon. n Will Murphy is a senior at Tuscarora High School completing his capstone project at Loudoun Now.
Lovettsville Council Again Balks at Pride Month Recognition BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
The Lovettsville Town Council again came under fire from residents last Thursday night after it refused to consider a ceremonial resolution recognizing June as Pride Month. Councilwoman Renee Edmonston made a motion to add the proclamation to the meeting’s agenda, but no other member of the council offered the support required to bring it to the floor for discussion. After the council declined to adopt Pride Month resolution last year, resident Caitlin Keefe said she worked over the past several weeks to gain input from council members to craft a resolution that they would support. Only Edmonston and Tony Quintana were responsive, she said. “I have never been so disappointed and so dismayed at my neighbors that
JUNE 2, 2022
represent this town. And need I remind you, you represent all of the town, not just the ones that are on your same level with your values or your beliefs. You represent everybody. I’m very disappointed. I’m horrified,” she said. Other supporters of the resolution who gathered in the meeting room said the council’s inaction was an exhibit of bigotry and cowardice, and served only to further isolate members of the LBGTQ community who experience discrimination. Sheryl Frye recalled the death by suicide of a town teen a few years ago. “It rocked many of us,” she said. “Aidan suffered here. He was bullied. He didn’t feel this town valued the LBGT community, and you proved him right again tonight.” “A pride proclamation can be a small pebble, and its waves of hope to the LBGT youth in this community can be huge. I would love to see Lovettsville that is a place of love and acceptance for
all the members of the community,” Frye said. Shelly Thomlinson noted that Pride Month is recognized by the federal government and recalled conversations with council members a year ago after vandals targeted pride flags in town. “I sat in the pavilion and Mayor Fontaine and several other town council members who were there. And I remember the conversation being, we don’t understand why we are not perceived as inclusive. … But this right here is why,” she said. “I’m sorry, but don’t ask us about being inclusive when you can’t even put it on the darn agenda. … I’m sorry, but you’re just sending a really awful message.” Earlier in the meeting, the council adopted a resolution sought by the town’s American Legion Auxiliary Unit to recognize National Poppy Day, as part of PRIDE MONTH continues on page 25
ALDIE Conversations in History Returns The 2022 Conversations in History series co-sponsored by NOVA Parks and the Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area kicks off Sunday, with “Writing on the Wall: The History & Preservation of Civil War Graffiti.” The program, starting at 3 p.m., features Kim O’Connell, author of a 2014 Civil War graffiti article in the popular New York Times’s “Disunion” series, who will explore the history of Civil War graffiti and preservation efforts to protect these unique perspectives of soldiers in the Civil War. Following her presentation, Tracy Gillespie, NOVA Park’s historic sites manager, will comment on the graffiti left on the walls of Mt. Zion Church by Union soldiers during the war. Suggested donation is $10 per person, and no reservations are required. This program will be held at Mt. Zion Historic Park, 40309 John Mosby Hwy, Aldie. For more information, go to novaparks.com/ parks/mt-zion-historic-park.
HAMILTON Harmony Preschool Plans Reopening Harmony Preschool, which has educated children ages 3-5 since 1995, is planning to reopen this fall. Based at Harmony United Methodist Church, the preschool closed in March 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. To restart the school, the preschool’s board of directors hired Heather Robért, who previously oversaw Little Blessings Preschool in Leesburg. The Christian based program offers morning classes from 9 a.m. to noon for children three through five years old, as well as an enrichment class on Fridays. Children are exposed to the skills they need for kindergarten through learning centers, manipulatives, stories, AROUND TOWNS continues on page 25
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Pride month continued from page 24 Memorial Day activities. Replicas of the flowers had been passed out in the audience, but many came to the podium to give them back, some noting that those who died in miliary service also defended the rights of LBTGQ citizens and that some who served were gay. Responding to the criticism at the close of the May 26 meeting, council members offered little explanation of their refusal to second Edmonston’s motion. Several said they didn’t expect the issue to turn out that way. “I will just say that it was a difficult day. It was challenging at every juncture. And I hope we can make amends somehow,” Quintana said. Vice Mayor Christopher Hornbaker said the proclamation didn’t meet the council’s adopted policy governing proclamations because it was not linked to a local event or business, but he said Lovettsville is a welcoming and cooperative community. “We support existing and welcoming new businesses organizations and residents into the community, treating our neighbors our neighbors with dignity and respect all of our neighbors’ dignity and respect and promoting volunteering, volunteerism, community service and cooperation,” he said. Edmonston said she supported the declaration as part of her philosophy to defend liberty and personal sovereignty. “Lovettsville is full of harmony. Con-
AROUND towns continued from page 24
and active games. Those interested in touring the preschool may call Robért at 540-3380510 or email preschool@harmonyva. org. Registration forms are available on the Harmony United Methodist Church website under the Preschool tab at harmonyva.org.
LOVETTSVILLE Town Plan Updates Head to Hearing The town Planning Commission was directed to take its proposed updates to the Town Comprehensive Plan to a public hearing, marking a major milestone in that years-long effort. The Town Council was briefed on the updates by Town Planner John Merrithew last week. The plan was adopted in 2011 and
flict can and does exist in the smallest corners of most areas of society, but we must not let the conflict among so few issues distort the hope and peace that exists within the vast majority of mankind who choose to live their lives privately, respectfully, caringly and these hardworking contributors of our great society,” she said. “Respecting human dignity, striving for mutual respect and ensuring equal opportunity are nonpartisan values. There are goals we can and should all work towards together. To the LBGTQ+ community of Lovettsville, you are my neighbors, you are part of the Lovettsville community.” Mayor Nate Fontaine, who does not have a vote on the council and was ineligible to second the motion, said the council could still adopt the resolution or another version during one of its June meetings. “The proclamation that came back in my opinion was not divisive, was not partisan and did not play politics. That proclamation was celebratory of giving recognition to a portion of our, of our populace here. I don’t understand why we could not even get a second to even have that discussion here this evening,” he said. “Today’s proclamation was a small, powerful support for a portion of our community that happens to be recognized both federally at the state level and the local levels as well, right, so this is not a political argument. This is not a divisive argument. These are members of our community who live here. These are members who served in our military,” Fontaine said. “Our inability to recognize them surprises me.” n last amended in 2017. The document’s seven chapters focus on historic resources, the environment, utilities and public infrastructure, economic development, housing, land use and transportation. The plan’s policies will guide new development and the balance of business and residential uses in town and how undeveloped or annexed land should be used in the future.
PURCELLVILLE Arts Exhibit Features ‘The Talent Within’ The Purcellville Arts Council is featuring the artwork by Town of Purcellville employees and members of the Committees, Commissions, and Boards in the “Talent from Within” exhibit. On Monday, the arts council will host a reception from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. where members of the public are invited to see the art on display and meet the artists. The show may also be viewed during regular Town Hall hours through June 30. n
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Obituaries Paul Ziluca 1928-2022 Paul Garibaldi Ziluca, 94 passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 12, 2022, at the Blue Ridge Hospice Center on Cork Street in Winchester, VA. Paul’s mother was Josephine, a granddaughter of Giuseppe Garibaldi, who history has credited with being the one who, in 1860, brought Italy’s many citystates together as a nation. Paul’s father was Joseph, whose Greek ancestor joined Emperor Constantine’s 312 AD march on Rome and afterwards settled in the Italian town of Cave, 35 miles SE of Rome, where the Ziluca descendants continued to live for the next 1600 years. Joseph and Josephine were married in 1926 and left Italy soon afterwards due to Mussolini’s fascism, arriving in the USA in 1927. Born on March 26, 1928, in Greenwich, CT, Paul graduated from Culver Military Academy and Harvard College where he met Louise, his wife of 69 years. He was commissioned in the USAF in August 1952 and served his country for 28 years, half of them overseas, including Vietnam in 1968, the year of the Tet Offensive. During his career, he earned a master’s degree and reached the rank of colonel. In civilian life, Paul became a devoted preservationist, mapping the Civil
War battles of Aldie, Middleburg and Upperville and serving for eight years as chairman of the Virginia Outdoors Foundation, the nation’s largest holder of conservation easements. He also served as Loudoun County Republican Party chairman from 1991 to 1994. In 2009, he was named a Loudoun Laureate in recognition of his positive contribution to Loudoun County life. His greatest achievement, though, was his family. Paul, preceded in death by his two brothers and parents, is survived by his wife Louise, and their children, Loveday and her husband John of Indio, California, Joseph and his wife Sue, of New York City, Isobel and her husband Danny, of Upperville, Virginia and Maxwell and his wife, Christine of Ellicott City, Maryland. There are five granddaughters, Josie, Becky, Adrienne, Bee, Caroline and three grandsons, Tom, Daniel and Jackson. Finally, there are two great grandchildren, the two Z’s, Zoe and Zane, presented to the Ziluca family by Daniel and his loving wife, Abby. Services were held May 23 at Omps Funeral Home and Westminster Canterbury. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SVWC Foundation for their art programs.
Death Notices ROGELIO OCA VELASCO, 76 of Aldie, Virginia peacefully passed on Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Rogelio was born on Wednesday, February 20, 1946, in Abra, Philippines. He is survived by his wife, Eugenia “Gina” Velasco; son, Roger Stephen Velasco, and daughter in law, Rina; and three grandchildren, Karina, Stevie, and Alexa; a sister, Flor. A funeral service will begin at 2:00 PM on Saturday, June 4, 2022, at Corpus Christi Catholic Church located at 41685 Corpus Christi Drive, Aldie, VA 20105. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Corpus Christi Catholic Church Chantilly, VA 20152. SHARIA YVONNE GARLAND, 44 of Ashburn, Virginia passed on Thursday, May 19, 2022. Sharia is survived by her loving husband, Kirby; son, Benjamin; daughter, Kyra’lee; mother, April; father, Darrell (Tonya); sister, Laria Jones (Dannan); brother, Darrell Woolwine (DeAndria); and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.
A memorial service will be held in her honor on Saturday June 4, 2022 at 11:00AM at East Friendship Baptist Church, 4401 Brooks St. NE, Washington, DC 20019. Another memorial service will be held in Buffalo, NY on Saturday June18, 2022 at 12:00pm at Bethel Tabernacle United Holy Church of America, 668 Clinton St. Buffalo, NY 14210. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.loudounfuneralchapel.com LOREN GREY GENTRY, 53 of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia died on Thursday, May 26, 2022. Loren is survived by his parents, daughter, Jenna Nicole Bruce, brother, Vincent Reeves Gentry. A memorial visitation will be held at 5:00-8:00 PM on Thursday June 2, 2022 at Loudoun Funeral Chapel, 158 Catoctin Circle, SE Leesburg, Virginia 20175. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.loudounfuneralchapel.com. The family would appreciate friends sharing any memories they have of Loren so we can celebrate his life together.
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JUNE 2, 2022
THINGS to do
Loco Living
LOCO LIVE Live Music: Joey Hafner
Friday, June 3, 6 p.m. Flying Ace Distillery and Brewery, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville Details: flyingacefarm.com The former frontman for regional favorites Ghost Pepper plays solo at a fun Friday evening show.
Live Music: Liberty Street
Friday, June 3, 5:30 Lost Barrel Brewing, 36138 John Mosby Highway, Middleburg Details: lostbarrel.com TGIF with soft rock favorites from Eric Stanley and Doug Wall.
Live Music: Jason Masi
Friday, June 3, 6 p.m. Doukenie Winery, 14727 Mountain Road, Hillsboro Details: doukeniewinery.com Masi returns to a favorite venue for an evening of acoustic soul and R&B.
Live Music: Benton and McKay
Friday, June 3, 6 p.m. Loudoun Brewing Company, 310 E. Market St., Leesburg Details: loudounbrewing.com Ryan Benton and Casey McKay return to LBC for a fun First Friday evening. Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
Laura Savino, who broke barriers for female pilots, last year released her memoir “Jet Boss.”
‘Jet Boss’
A Trailblazing Pilot’s New Memoir BY JAN MERCKER
Jmercker@loudounnow.com
Laura Savino didn’t want to be a trailblazer. She just wanted to fly. But when she entered the commercial aviation industry as a pilot in the 1980s, breaking barriers was exactly what was required. The Ashburn-based author released her memoir “Jet Boss” last year. Now retired after a 30-year career with United Airlines, Savino has a new career as a writer and motivational speaker on a mission to encourage girls and young women to pursue aviation careers. “I didn’t set out to be a groundbreaker or buck conventional wisdom,” Savino writes in her memoir. “I only wanted to be a pilot.” Savino’s career path required hard work, out-of-the-box thinking and overcoming obstacles. It also meant being confused with a flight attendant countless
times. As captain of a United flight, she recalls inviting a mother and her young daughter to visit the cockpit. After a visit full of empowering conversation, Savino overheard the woman say to her daughter, “It was so sweet that the stewardess let you sit in the pilot’s seat. When the plane takes off, she’s going to come back here and you can thank her again.” It was the kind of assumption she’s run up against over and over again during more than three decades as a pilot. “It was too ingrained to easily get around,” Savino said. Savino grew up in a conservative Catholic household in New Jersey, where her parents ran a clothing store. In her memoir, she remembers her mother rushing home from work each day to get dinner on the table. Most pilots in the ’70s and ’80s had either a military background or family connection to aviation, she says, but she had neither. “I had never met a pilot. My parents
had never met a pilot,” Savino said. But Savino was fascinated by planes from an early age, inspired in part by her hometown’s proximity to Newark International Airport. But it was a nearby regional airport that truly sparked her passion. As soon as she got her driver’s license at 17, Savino drove the family station wagon to Morristown Municipal Airport, compelled by an irrepressible curiosity. At that airport, known as MMU, she took her first flight lesson in a Cessna. “It was completely mesmerizing. It was beyond anything I’d ever pictured, and then I was hooked,” Savino said. Savino got a job working the front desk for the flight school in exchange for lessons, conquering new hurdles one step at a time on her journey to becoming a commercial pilot. “I just kept moving forward one very
JET BOSS continues on page 27
Live Music: Firehouse
Friday, June 3, 8 p.m. Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg Details: tallyhotheater.com The Charlotte-based hard rockers reached stardom in the 90s with hits like “Reach for the Sky,” “Don’t Treat Me Bad” and “All She Wrote.” Tickets are $39.50 for general admission, $80 for VIP seats.
B Chord Bob Dylan Birthday Tribute
Friday, June 3, 8 p.m. B Chord Brewing, 34266 Williams Gap Road, Round Hill Details: bchordbrewing.com Four of the region’s top bluegrass performers celebrate Bob Dylan’s 82nd birthday with their favorite selections from his enduring body of work. The evening features Sam Guthridge, Johnny “Calamari” Lanehart, Sarah Larsen and host/organizer Nate Clendenen. Admission is free.
Live Music: Morris-Morris
Saturday, June 4, 1 p.m. Maggie Malick Wine Caves, 12138 Harpers Ferry Road, Neersville Details: maggiemalickwinecaves.com Morris-Morris is a father/son duo performing standards, jazz, classic rock and blues.
Live Music: Chasing Autumn
Saturday, June 4, 2 p.m. Flying Ace Distillery and Brewery, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville Details: flyingacefarm.com This acoustic duo made up of Chris Coutts and Maria Lynn brings favorite hits from the 60s to today.
THINGS TO DO continues on page 28
JUNE 2, 2022
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BEST BETS
WINE & WIGGLEBUTTS Saturday, June 4, noon-6 p.m. Forever Farm Vineyard foreverfarmvineyard.com
Jet Boss continued from page 26 small step at a time. I had no grand ambitions. … I certainly didn’t picture myself becoming a captain with United Airlines,” she said. “I just wanted to earn enough money to go up in the air again.” Savino was welcomed into the community of aviation professionals at the airport as she moved from her first lesson to getting her pilot’s license. “There’s a whole community at any airport,” she said. “I was completely accepted there as a pilot.” Meanwhile, Savino encountered resistance from her parents and hurdles from school officials and hesitated to tell school friends about her passion for aviation. “I was a cheerleader,” Savino said. “I had two completely different worlds.” Despite high grades and top scores on aptitude tests, Savino’s high school counselor discouraged her from taking high-level math and science courses out of fear that it would ruin her GPA. Savino had heard about Purdue University’s legendary aviation program from her network of friends at MMU and knew it was where she wanted to go. But because her high school transcript was light on STEM classes, she didn’t initially get accepted to the aviation program. But Savino had a plan: she applied and was accepted to study art at Purdue, then worked her way into the flight program over the course of her freshman year. “It was not quick and it was not easy,” she said. After graduation, Savino focused on logging the flight hours she needed to become a commercial pilot. She became
CHICAGO REWIRED The Premier Chicago Tribute Band Saturday, June 4, 6-9:30 p.m. Tarara Winery tararaconcerts.com
a flight instructor, teaching at Purdue, MMU, and other regional airports. Then she started taking on charter and freight flights, often lonely, late-night assignments. Savino scored her first commercial job with Eastern Airlines in 1989, only to have her career put on hold by the famous strike that year. Later that year, Savino was hired by Pan Am for its domestic shuttle service in the northeast corridor, piloting multiple flights each day with old-school technology. “Everything was hand-flown,” she said. “Just that old round dial with needles.” Savino started with United as a second officer in 1990 and got a full taste of the boys club that was aviation in that era, with airlines full of male pilots who considered themselves “sky gods,” she said. “Certainly, there were pilots who were not happy to see me,” she said. “It definitely was a period of adaptation for everybody. Women were generally only in the cockpit to serve coffee. … I think it hurt their self-image. They had lived in an era when pilots had this reputation for being super males, very macho. And then they see me and I’m 5’3” and 110 pounds, and I could do their job and I could do their job well.” But for Savino, the joy and exhilaration of flying made up for the obstacles. “Pilots just really enjoy flying airplanes. I’m still fascinated by it,” she said. “The way you use your eye/hand coordination to bring it all together and be in control of this massive machine at 40,000 feet in a pressurized tube—with hundreds of people behind you counting on the fact that you know what you’re doing.” Her job with United brought her to
CARIBBEAN VIBE STEEL DRUM BAND Saturday, June 4, 7-8:30 p.m. Leesburg Town Green loudounnow.com/aotg
Loudoun in 1993 when her hub changed from JFK to Dulles. Savino raised her two sons, now college age, in Ashburn. And her memoir tackles the challenges of balancing parenthood with a demanding career, including a story about preschool moms who assumed her nanny was her children’s mom. One of Savino’s sons is studying engineering at Purdue, and the other is training to be an aircraft mechanic. In her talks to local students, Savino said she makes a point of focusing on different types of aviation careers. “There are so many fantastic aviation careers,” she said, and Northern Virginia is an industry hub. As it was for most aviation professionals, 9/11 was a turning point for Savino— and the event that inspired her to launch a writing career after losing friends and colleagues on two United flights and two American Airlines flights on Sept. 11, 2001. Savino had just returned to work from maternity leave after giving birth to her younger son and was at a training facility in Denver preparing to transition from the role of first officer to captain. She watched the events unfold in a hotel conference room surrounded by colleagues and was determined to tell the story of that day from a pilot’s perspective. “It was such a devastating time for me and my friends and family,” she said, but also a day of cooperation and solidarity as airlines worked to safely land thousands of planes under uncertain circumstances. In addition to her writing career, Savino reaches future pilots by sharing her story. Her talks target students from all walks of life, but she is particularly focused on boosting the representation of women in aviation. While women have
THE REAGAN YEARS Saturday, June 4, 7 p.m. (doors) Tally Ho Theater tallyhotheater.com
made enormous strides in many STEM fields, they’re still heavily underrepresented in aviation, she says. As other industries made significant efforts to bring women into their fields, aviation was left behind. The percentage of women commercial pilots grew from 6% to just 7% between 2005 and 2020 according to FAA statistics, part of what industry experts call “flatline effect.” Barriers include industry culture, recruitment strategies and biases in education, according to a 2022 report from the FAA Women in Aviation Advisory Board, but there’s an industry wide effort to grow the numbers. “Airlines are trying hard to diversify now,” Savino said. By sharing her story and her path to achieving her dream, Savino is working to help young women move into STEM fields and consider aviation as a viable career choice. She participates in the Smithsonian Institution Air and Space Museum’s popular S.H.E. Can STEAM Camp for low-income middle school students in the DMV. Savino has also booked speaking engagements at Loudoun schools and community events. “I never really gave much thought to the amazing women who preceded me and opened up doors,” she said. “As I got older and wiser, I kind of became the woman I wish I knew when I was young.” n “Jet Boss” is available at Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble. Laura Savino is scheduled to do a reading and book signing at Barnes and Noble in Tysons Corner on Saturday, June 11. To learn more about Savino and “Jet Boss,” go to laurasavino747.com.
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THINGS to do continued from page 26
Live Music: Billy Thompson
Saturday, June 4, 2 p.m. Doukenie Winery, 14727 Mountain Road, Hillsboro Details: doukeniewinery.com Funky blues-based vocalist Billy Thompson brings his soulful voice to Doukenie.
Todd Rowdy Tolbert
Saturday, June 4, 2 p.m. Two Twisted Posts Winery, 12944 Harpers Ferry Road, Neersville Details: twotwistedposts.com The frontman for the Rowdy Ace band serves up country-inspired acoustic favorites.
Live Music: Summer and Eric
Saturday, June 4, 5 p.m. Lost Barrel Brewing, 36138 John Mosby Highway, Middleburg Details: lostbarrel.com This DMV duo plays a fun, eclectic and unexpected mix of music from the past and present, as well as original tunes.
VAL Plaza Party: The Fringe Benefits Band
JUNE 2, 2022
Live Music: Melissa Quinn Fox Duo
Sunday, June 5, 2 p.m. 868 Estate Vineyards, 14001 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro Details: 868estatevineyards.com Wammie-winner Melissa Quinn Fox returns to 868 with her signature high-energy blend of rock and country.
Live Music: Lost Corner Vagabonds
Sunday, June 5, 2 p.m. Flying Ace Distillery and Brewery, 40950 Flying Ace Lane, Lovettsville Details: flyingacefarm.com Whether it’s rock, country, R&B or a heartfelt ballad, The Lost Corner Vagabonds dig deep to reach those places that feel like home.
Live Music: Perry and Holmes
Sunday, June 5, 2 p.m. Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Loudoun Heights Details: facebook.com/harpersferrybrewing Jason Perry of Crash the Limo brings acoustic rock to HFB.
LOCO CULTURE
Saturday, June 4, 6-9 p.m. Village At Leesburg, 1602 Village Market Blvd., Leesburg Details: villageatleesburg.com Fringe Benefits performs favorites from the 80s, 90s, Motown and today–jumping from The Weekend to Aretha Franklin to Bruno Mars for an evening of fun.
Live Music: On Easy Street
Saturday, June 4, 6-9 p.m. 868 Estate Vineyards, 14001 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro Details: 868estatevineyards.com It’s jazz night at 868 with the best of vocal jazz from the 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s. Sway along to the familiar jazz tunes of the Great American Songbook in a gorgeous setting.
Live Music: Acoustic Syndicate
Saturday, June 4, 6:30 p.m. B Chord Brewing, 34266 Williams Gap Road, Round Hill Details: bchordbrewing.com Rooted in bluegrass instrumentation, North Carolinabased ensemble Acoustic Syndicate have maintained a diverse approach since their formation in the early 1990s, with rock sensibilities, tight songcraft,and a commitment to an eclectic sound.Tickets are $25.
Live Music: The Reagan Years
Saturday, June 4, 8 p.m. Tally Ho Theater, 19 W. Market St., Leesburg Details: tallyhotheater.com One of the region’s favorite 80s tribute bands returns to the Tally Ho. Tickets are $20.
Live Music: Dead on the Mountain
Saturday, June 4, 7-10 p.m. Dirt Farm Brewing, 18701 Foggy Bottom Road, Bluemont Details: dirtfarmbrewing.com Dirt Farm’s Dead on the Mountain event is back with Grateful Dead covers and Dead-inspired tunes from The Crooked Angels and The Bluemont Ramble. Tickets are $25.
Tarara Summer Concert Series: Chicago Rewired
Saturday, June 4, 6 p.m. Tarara Winery, 13648 Tarara Lane, Lucketts Details: tararaconcerts.com Formed in 2015, Chicago Rewired pulls top-notch musicians to recreate the sound of one of the biggest pop/rock bands of all time. Tickets are $20.
Western Loudoun Art and Studio Tour
Friday, June 3, Saturday, June 4 and Sunday, June 5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Details: wlast.org The Western Loudoun Art and Studio Tour offers three days of art, shopping and relaxation, featuring 40 talented artists and a chance to drive through the county’s scenic countryside and historic villages. Studios feature paintings, pottery, jewelry, photography, fiber, sculpture and more.
Deborah Morbeto Gallery Opening
Friday, June 2, 4-8 p.m. A Delightfully Different Gallery, 103 Loudoun St. SE, Leesburg Details: thedebweb.com Leesburg artist Deborah Morbeto opens her new space featuring a variety of eclectic art including mixed media paintings, ceramics, jewelry and wearables.
Celebrate South Riding
Friday, June 3, 5-10 p.m. and Saturday, June 4, 2-10 p.m. Dulles South Recreation and Community Center, 24950 Riding Center Drive, South Riding Details: southriding.net It’s two days of rides and fun. Admission is $10 for South Riding residents, $15 for non-residents. Unlimited rides and admission are $25 for residents, $35 for non-residents.
JUNE 2, 2022
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Legal Notices VIRGINIA:
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR LOUDOUN COUNTY IN RE: ESTATE OF ARLEENE JANE HENDRICK, DECEASED Probate File No. 19331 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE AGAINST DISTRIBUTION
Reflex Rocks as Tarara Concerts Return for 2022 Eighties cover band The Reflex once again opened the Tarara Summer Concert Series on Saturday night, kicking off one of the region’s most well-loved summertime series. Although the winery that first gave the concert series its name closed last year, the concert series, repeatedly named one of the region’s favorites, is as big as ever. The Reflex have traditionally begun each year’s concert series, kicking off the summer season and opening the way for performances ranging from country music favorites Delta Spur, to cover bands for artists like Billy Joel, Journey and The Eagles, to the annual reunion show of Gonzo’s Nose. This week, Chicago Rewired, a Chicago tribute band, will take the stage. More information, the full schedule and tickets are at tararaconcerts.com. — Renss Greene
It appearing that a report of the account of Bradley Hendrick and Stefani Whetzel, Co-Executors for the Estate of Arleene Jane Hendrick, and a report of the debts and demands against the Estate have been filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court for Loudoun County, and that more than 6 months have elapsed since the qualification of the Administrator before this Court, It is ORDERED that the creditors of, and all others interested in, the Estate of Arleene Jane Hendrick, deceased, do show cause, if any they can, on Friday, July 1, 2022, at 10:00 a.m., before this Court at its courtroom in Leesburg, Virginia, against payment and delivery of said Estate to the Estate's beneficiaries, after payment of remaining administrative expenses. 6/2 & 6/9/22
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 1-211.1; 8.01-316, -317, 20-104 Case No.:
22-2470 LOUDOUN COUNTY Circuit Court
18 East Market St., Leesburg VA 20176 Christopher Kasean King v. Name change The object of this suit is to change name to Christopher Rasean King Peterson. It is ORDERED that the Charles Ricardo King appear at the above-named court and protect his interests on or before July 15, 2022 at 2PM. 6/2, 6/9, 6/16 & 6/23
ORDER OF PUBLICATION COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316 Case No.:
JJ040959-26-00
Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Madison Bartlett Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v. Unknown Father(s)
PUBLIC NOTICE The Loudoun Museum will hold its Annual Meeting in person on June 16, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. It will take place on the second floor of the Museum, located at 16 Loudoun St SW, Leesburg, VA, 20175. Contact the Museum at 703-777-8873 or info@loudounmuseum.org for more information. 6/2/22
The object of this suit is to hold a foster care review hearing and review of foster care plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-282 and 16.1-281 for Madison Bartlett. It is ORDERED that the defendant Unknown Father appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before July 6, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. 6/2, 6/9, 6/16, & 6/23/22
ORDER OF PUBLICATION COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316 Case No.:
JJ044816-01-00
Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Alexander Beers Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v. John Beers, putative father
Create Local Jobs Shop LoCo
The object of this suit is to hold a dispositional hearing for child in need of services case, pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-278.4 and to review the initial Foster Care Plan pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-281 for Alexander Beers. It is ORDERED that the defendant John Beers appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before July 1, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. 6/2, 6/9, 6/16, & 6/23/22
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JUNE 2, 2022
Legal Notices TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
RESOLUTION TO CONSIDER SALE OF REAL PROPERTY OWNED BY THE TOWN OF LEESBURG TO THE ABBUTTING PROPERTY OWNERS
LEESBURG TOWN CODE AMENDMENT:
Pursuant to Section 15.2-1800 and 15.2-2100 of the Code of Virginia of 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing on TUESDAY, June 14, 2022, at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers at Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176, to consider the sale of real property owned by the Town of Leesburg, Virginia, (“Town”) located south of Route 7 / East Market Street and adjacent to the abutting property owners. Said proposed sale of real property owned by the Town to the Commonwealth of Virginia, Virginia Department of Transportation being an area within the designated limited access line for Route 7/East Market Street containing 0.08 acre, with the remainder of the property to the abutting property owner, being a strip of land approximately fifty (50’) feet in width and containing approximately 0.80 acre of land, being a portion of the land identified by property identification number (PIN) 149-35-8258, Tax Map Number /49////////22A and being a part of the former access road to the Town of Leesburg’s Public Works maintenance shop and Utility Department sanitary sewer treatment facilities located between Route 7/ East Market Street and Russell Branch Parkway. A copy of the proposed Resolution and additional information is available from the Town Clerk, Leesburg Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by calling Eileen Boeing, Clerk, at 703-771-2733. At this hearing, all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Clerk of Council at 703-771-2733, three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711.
CHAPTER 2 (ADMINISTRATION); ARTICLE V (BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS); DIVISION 1 (GENERALLY); SECTION 2-197 (COMPENSATION) In accordance with Code of Virginia of 1950, as amended, Sections 15.2-1414.7 and 15.2-1427, the Leesburg Town Council will hold a public hearing on: Tuesday, June 14, 2022, at 7:00 P.M. in the Council Chambers of Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, VA at which time the public shall have the right to present oral and written testimony on the proposed amendment to Town Code Section 2-197 (Compensation) to automatically increase the amount of compensation provided to the mayor and councilmembers when there is an increase in the Cost-ofLiving Adjustment for Town of Leesburg employees. A copy of the proposed ordinance is available from the Town Clerk, located in Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.); or by calling Eileen Boeing, Town Clerk, at 703-771-2733. At this hearing, all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Clerk of Council at 703-771-2733, three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711. 6/2 & 6/9/22
6/2 & 6/9/22
TOWN OF LEESBURG NOTICE OF TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AMENDMENTS TO ZONING ORDINANCE ARTICLE 7 OVERLAY AND SPECIAL PURPOSE DISTRICTS AND ARTICLE 14 CREEK VALLEY BUFFER RELATING TO CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing on TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176 to consider Zoning Ordinance Amendment TLOA-2022-0003 revising the following Section of the Zoning Ordinance: 1. Sec. 7.11.2 Definitions establishing a definition of Capital Improvement Project 2. Sec.7.11.7 Prohibited Activities to make the Section more legible and understandable for use 3. Sec. 7.11.8.B Permitted Uses in Major Floodplain establishing Capital Improvement Project as a permitted use by right in major floodplains within the Floodplain Overlay District 4. Sec. 7.11.8.C Permitted Uses in Minor Floodplain establishing Capital Improvement Project as a permitted use by right in minor floodplains within the Floodplain Overlay District 5. Sec. 14.2.2.C Capital Improvement Setback Reduction establishing the ability to reduce the minimum setback for Capital Improvement Projects within the Creek Valley Buffer Overlay District 6. Sec. 14.6 Permitted Uses clarifying the correct ordinance being referred to in the text of the section Copies and additional information regarding this proposed Zoning Ordinance amendment is available at the Department of Planning and Zoning located on the second floor of the Leesburg Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by calling 703-737-7009 and asking for Christopher Murphy, Senior Planning Project Manager. This zoning ordinance amendment application is identified as case number TLOA-2022-0003.
TOWN OF LEESBURG
NOTICE OF TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AN AMENDMENT TO ZONING ORDINANCE ARTICLE 9 USE REGULATIONS RELATING TO MOBILE FOOD UNIT PARKING/ STORAGE ASSOCIATED WITH A COMMERCIAL KITCHEN Pursuant to Sections 15.2-1427, 15.2-2204, 15.2-2205 and 15.2-2285 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, the LEESBURG TOWN COUNCIL will hold a public hearing on TUESDAY, JUNE 14, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia, 20176 to consider Zoning Ordinance Amendment TLOA-2021-0013 revising the following Section of the Zoning Ordinance: 1. Sec. 9.5.4.F Mobile Food Unit on Private Property in the I-1 District, the Planned Employment Center (PEC District) and within the B-2, B-3 and B-4 Zoning Districts, and the CD-C and CD-CC Sub-Districts of the Crescent Design District to establish parking/storage requirements for mobile food units working out of a commercial kitchen Copies and additional information regarding this proposed Zoning Ordinance amendment is available at the Department of Planning and Zoning located on the second floor of the Leesburg Town Hall, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), or by calling 703-737-7009 and asking for Christopher Murphy, Senior Planning Project Manager. This zoning ordinance amendment application is identified as case number TLOA-2022-0003. At this hearing all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Clerk of Council at (703) 771-2733 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711. 6/2 & 6/9/2022
At this hearing all persons desiring to express their views concerning these matters will be heard. Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Clerk of Council at (703)-771-2733 three days in advance of the meeting. For TTY/TDD service, use the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711. 6/2 & 6/9/2022
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Legal Notices JOINT PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE FY2023-FY2028 SECONDARY ROAD SIX-YEAR PLAN AND FY2023 CONSTRUCTION IMPROVEMENT BUDGET PRIORITY LIST In accordance with Virginia Code §33.2-331, the BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF LOUDOUN COUNTY and the VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION will jointly hold a combined PUBLIC HEARING on Wednesday, June 15, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room, County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, to consider adoption of the FY2023 - FY2028 Secondary Road Six-Year Plan and the FY2023 Construction Improvement Budget Priority List developed for the secondary roads in Loudoun County. All projects in the Secondary Road Six-Year Plan that are eligible for federal funds will be included in the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP), which documents how Virginia will obligate federal transportation funds. Citizens are invited to be present and express their views regarding the above-mentioned documents.
COUNTY OF LOUDOUN FIRST HALF REAL PROPERTY TAX DEADLINE H. Roger Zurn, Jr., Treasurer JUNE 6, 2022 The deadline for payment of the first half real property tax is June 6, 2022. Payments received or postmarked after June 6, 2022, will incur a 10 percent penalty and interest. Any such penalty, when assessed, shall become part of the tax with interest accruing on both the tax and penalty at a rate of 10% annually. The due date will not be extended for bills where assessment questions have been filed with the Board of Equalization. Taxpayers who are having financial difficulties should contact our Collections Team at 703-771-5656 who stand ready to assist. For your safety and convenience, please consider making payments online, by phone or mail.
VDOT ensures nondiscrimination in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The list of highway improvement projects in the proposed amended Six-Year Plan, and the proposed amended annual Construction Improvement Budget Priority List, taken from the Six-Year Plan, are available for public inspection at the Loudoun County Government Center, Information Desk, 1st Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, or call (703) 777-0200, and at the Virginia Department of Transportation Leesburg Residency Office, 41 Lawson Road, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, or call (703) 737-2000. Board of Supervisors public hearings are available for live viewing on television on Comcast Government Channel 23 and Verizon FiOS Channel 40, and livestreamed at loudoun.gov/meetings. All members of the public who desire to speak will be heard as to their views pertinent to these matters. Public input may be provided by electronic means at Board public hearings. Members of the public who wish to provide public input, whether electronically or in person, will be accommodated without advanced sign-up during the hearing, however, members of the public are strongly encouraged to signup in advance. For this public hearing, advanced sign-up will be taken after 8:30 a.m. on June 3, 2022, and no later than 12:00 p.m. on June 15, 2022. If you wish to sign-up in advance, call the Office of the County Administrator at (703) 777-0200. Citizens will also have the option to sign-up during the public hearing. Citizens may also submit written comments by email sent to bos@loudoun.gov. Any written comments received prior to the public hearing will be distributed to Board members and made part of the minutes for the public hearing. Hearing assistance is available for meetings in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room. If you require any type of reasonable accommodation as a result of a physical, sensory or mental disability to participate in this meeting, please contact the Office of the County Administrator at 703-777-0200. At least one business day of advance notice is requested; some accommodations may require more than one day of notice. FM Assistive Listening System is available at the meetings. BY ORDER OF: Phyllis J. Randall Chair Loudoun County Board of Supervisors
CONVENIENT PAYMENT OPTIONS AND LOCATIONS Online:
www.loudounportal.com/taxes Pay using electronic check, VISA, MasterCard, American Express or Discover
Pay your taxes through your mobile device: Link2Loudoun app is available for free from the iPhone App Store and the Google Play Store. The app allows access to www.loudounportal.com/taxes to pay your taxes. By Telephone:
24-hour line 1-800-269-5971 703-777-0280 during regular business hours. Pay using electronic check, VISA, MasterCard, American Express or Discover
Please note: There is a convenience fee added to a Credit Card transaction. There is no fee for electronic checks (e-check). By Mail:
County of Loudoun P.O. Box 1000 Leesburg, Virginia 20177-1000 TREASURER’S OFFICE HOURS AND LOCATIONS 1 Harrison Street, S.E. 1st Floor Leesburg, Virginia 20175
21641 Ridgetop Circle Suite 104 Sterling, Virginia 20166
24-hour depository boxes are located outside each office. Regular Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Farid Bigdeli Assistant District Administrator Virginia Department of Transportation 5/26 & 6/2/22
LOUDOUN COUNTY WILL BE ACCEPTING SEALED COMPETITIVE BIDS FOR:
Please contact the Loudoun County Treasurer's Office at 703-777-0280 or email us at taxes@loudoun. gov with questions or if you have not received your bill. Stay up to date on tax information by subscribing to the Tax Notices category of Alert Loudoun at www.louduon.gov/alert. You can also text the word “TAXES” to 888777 to receive text messages about tax-related information, including upcoming deadlines. For information regarding Real Property Tax Relief for the Elderly or for Disabled Persons, please contact the Tax Exemption and Deferrals division of the Commissioner of the Revenue’s Office at taxrelief@loudoun.gov by phone 703-737-8557 or visit www.loudoun.gov/taxrelief. 5/26 & 6/2/22
STAFF AND CAMP APPAREL, IFB No. 510783 until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, June 23, 2022. Solicitation forms may be obtained 24 hours a day by visiting our web site at www.loudoun.gov/procurement. If you do not have access to the Internet, call (703) 777-0403, M - F, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. WHEN CALLING, PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU NEED ANY REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION FOR ANY TYPE OF DISABILITY IN ORDER TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS PROCUREMENT. 6/2/22
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JUNE 2, 2022
Legal Notices PUBLIC HEARING The LOUDOUN COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS will hold a public hearing in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room, County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, at 6:00 p.m. on WEDNESDAY, June 15, 2022, in order to consider: ZMAP-2020-0012 & SPEX-2021-0020 MOUNTAIN VIEW RESIDENTIAL
ZMOD-2019-0051 DULLES 28 CENTRE SIGN PLAN
43500 Mountain View Dr LLC, of Brambleton, Virginia, and 43474 Mountainviewdr LLC, of Chantilly, Virginia, have submitted applications for the following: 1) to rezone approximately 6.33 acres from the CR-1 (Countryside Residential - 1) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance to the R-8 ADU (Single Family Residential - 8, ADU Development Regulations) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance in order to develop 41 Single Family Attached residential units, at a density of approximately 6.5 dwelling units per acre; and 2) A Special Exception to permit the modification of the minimum yard requirements for ADU developments in the R-8 ADU zoning district from 15 feet to 10 feet. These applications are subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance and the proposed modification of the minimum yard requirements for ADU developments in the R-8 ADU zoning district is authorized by Special Exception under Section 7-803(C)(4). The subject property is located within the AI (Airport Impact) Overlay District, between the Ldn 60-65 aircraft noise contours and is also located within the QN (Quarry Notification) Overlay District, Chantilly Crush Stone Note Area. The subject property is approximately 6.33 acres in size and is located on the north side of Mountain View Drive (Route 834), west of Poland Road (Route 742) and south of Savoy Woods Court (Route 2290) in the Dulles Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as:
Dulles 28 Centre Retail Group LLC of Rockville, Maryland, has submitted an application to modify the applicable provisions of Section 523 of the 1972 Zoning Ordinance to implement a Comprehensive Sign Package pursuant to Section 700.2 of the 1972 Zoning Ordinance which proposes changes to the total aggregate sign area, maximum number of signs, and maximum area of any one sign for building mounted signs for an approximately 13.07-acre property located in the PD-CH (Planned Development – Commercial Highway) zoning district under the 1972 Zoning Ordinance. The subject property is being developed pursuant to ZMAP-1989-0021, Dulles 28 Centre, Concept Development Plan Amendment in the PD-CH (Planned Development Commercial Highway) zoning district under the 1972 Zoning Ordinance. The subject property is located within the Route 28 Taxing District. The subject property is approximately 13.07 acres in size and is located in the northwest quadrant of the intersection of Sully Road (Route 28) and Waxpool Road (Route 625) at 22000 Dulles Retail Plaza, Sterling, Virginia in the Broad Run Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 044-49-3578. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Mixed Use Place Type)), which designate this area for a mix of Residential, Commercial, Entertainment, Cultural, and Recreational uses up to a 1.0 Floor Area Ratio (FAR).
(Zoning Map Amendment & Special Exception)
PIN
PROPERTY ADDRESS
128-39-9805
43500 Mountain View Drive, Chantilly, Virginia
128-39-6515
43474 and 43494 Mountain View Drive, Chantilly, Virginia
The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Neighborhood Place Type)) which designate this area for predominately Residential uses on medium-to-large lots with a residential density up to four dwelling units per acres, or up to six units per acre for infill development, and a total non-residential Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of up to 1.0.
ZMAP-2021-0004 & SPEX-2021-0007 COLONNADE (Zoning Map Amendment and Special Exception)
DTC Partners, LLC of Rockville, Maryland has submitted applications for the following: 1) to rezone approximately 4.15 acres from the PD-CC(NC) (Planned Development – Commercial Center (Neighborhood Center)) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance to the R-16 ADU (Townhouse/ Multifamily Residential – 16, Affordable Dwelling Unit Development Regulations) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance in order to develop up to 61 single-family attached dwelling units at a density of 14.7 dwelling units per acre; and 2) a Special Exception to reduce the front yard setback from 15 to 10 feet for rear-loaded single-family attached dwelling units in the R-16 ADU zoning district and the proposed modification of the minimum yard requirements for ADU developments in the R-16 ADU zoning district is authorized by Special Exception under Section 7-903(C)(1)(3). The subject property is located within the Route 28 Taxing District. The subject property is approximately 4.15 acres in size and located in the northeast corner of the intersection of City Center Boulevard (Route 1345) and Stefanie Drive (Route 2879). The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 029-28-5117. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Mixed Use Place Type)), which designate this area for a mix of residential, commercial, entertainment, cultural, and recreational uses at up to 1.0 floor area ratio (FAR).
SPEX-2021-0025 SCOTT JENKINS MEMORIAL PARK (Special Exception)
The Loudoun County Department of Transportation & Capital Infrastructure, of Leesburg, Virginia, has submitted an application for a Special Exception to modify the conditions of approval and Special Exception plat associated with SPEX-2009-0004, Scott Jenkins Memorial Park, which currently govern the subject property, in order to amend Condition #5 to allow lighting for the existing ballfields on site in the AR-1 (Agricultural Rural – 1) zoning district. This application is subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance. The subject property is located partially within the Sensitive Mountainside Overlay District and is also located partially within the Somewhat Sensitive Mountainside Overlay District. The subject property is approximately 34.21 acres in size and is located on the south side of Harry Byrd Highway (Route 7) and on the north side of East Colonial Highway (Old Route 7), at 39464 E Colonial Highway, Hamilton, Virginia, in the Catoctin Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 346-35-3765. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Rural Policy Area (Rural North Place Type)), which designate this area for mostly Agricultural and Agricultural Supportive uses with limited Residential uses.
(Zoning Ordinance Modification)
ZMAP-2019-0016 JK TECHNOLOGY PARK #3 (Zoning Map Amendment)
JK Land Holdings LLC of Sterling Virginia, has submitted an application to rezone approximately 21.23 acres from the RC (Rural Commercial) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance to the PD-IP (Planned Development – Industrial Park) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance in order to develop by right uses including office and data center uses in the PD-IP zoning district up to a 0.6 Floor Area Ratio (FAR). The property is located within the AI (Airport Impact) Overlay District, within the Ldn 65 or higher and located partially within the FOD (Floodplain Overlay District), major floodplain. The subject property is approximately 21.23 acres in size and is located on the west side of Stone Springs Boulevard (Route 659) and south of Arcola Mills Drive (Route 621) at 24393 Stone Springs Blvd, Sterling, Virginia in the Blue Ridge Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 203-29-5737. The area is governed by the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Employment)), which supports primarily Office, Production, Flex space, and Warehousing uses as well as startups and established businesses with limited Retail uses at a FAR of up to 1.0.
APPROVAL OF A BOUNDARY LINE AGREEMENT TO CHANGE THE BOUNDARY LINE BETWEEN LOUDOUN COUNTY, VIRGINIA, AND THE TOWN OF LOVETTSVILLE, VIRGINIA Pursuant to Virginia Code §15.2-3106 et seq., the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors hereby provides notice of its intention to approve a Boundary Line Agreement with the Town of Lovettsville, Virginia, (“Town”) to change the existing boundary line between Loudoun County, Virginia, (“County”) and the Town. The proposed boundary line change would incorporate into the municipal limits of the Town a land area containing 30.3815 acres, more or less, being all of the property identified as Loudoun County Parcel Identification Numbers (PINs) 371-49-5463 (Wheeler & Wheeler, Inc., d/b/a West End Motors) and 37139-4189 (One Family Brewing), plus a 999-foot section of Berlin Turnpike (Route 287) from the current Town boundary on the north (“Subject Property”). The new location of the boundary line between the County and the Town would correspond generally to a line extending southeasterly from a point located along the Town’s eastern boundary, which point also is located along the northeastern corner of a parcel owned by the Lovettsville District Fire and Rescue Company, Inc., southeasterly across Route 287 to the northwestern boundary of land owned by Wheeler and Wheeler Inc., then generally southeasterly and southerly along the southern right-of-way of Lutheran Church Road (Route 676) and northern boundaries of land owned by Wheeler and Wheeler Inc. and One Family Brewing LLC (PIN 234-49-1255 and 234-50-6397), then curving northeasterly to a point and then southeasterly and southerly, then northwesterly and then southwesterly, then westerly along the southern boundary of One Family Brewing LLC to the eastern right-of-way of Route 287, then proceeding northeasterly to a point along the western boundary of One Family Brewing LLC and then crossing Route 287 to the western right-of-way of Route 287 and southeastern corner of a Lovettsville District Fire and Rescue Company, Inc. parcel, then heading northeasterly to the northeastern corner of the Lovettsville District Fire and Rescue Company, Inc. property. The Subject Property to be incorporated into the Town is located adjacent to the southeast side of the current municipal limits of the Town, in the Catoctin Election District, and is depicted on the below map.
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Legal Notices A copy of the draft Boundary Line Agreement may be examined at the Loudoun County Government Center, Information Desk, 1st Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday or call (703) 777-0200. Documents also may be viewed and downloaded electronically 72 hours in advance of the public hearing at: www.loudoun.gov/bosdocuments (for Public Hearing documents, follow the link for “Board of Supervisors Business Meetings, Public Hearings and Special Meetings”). Unless otherwise noted in the above notices, copies of the above-referenced amendments, applications, ordinances, and/or plans and related documents may be examined by request at the Loudoun County Government Center, Information Desk, 1st Floor, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, or call 703-7770246 (option 5) to request hard copies or electronic copies, or electronically at www.loudoun.gov/lola. This link also provides an additional opportunity for public input on active applications. Documents also may be viewed and downloaded electronically 72 hours in advance of the public hearing at: www.loudoun.gov/bosdocuments (for Public Hearing documents, follow the link for “Board of Supervisors Business Meetings, Public Hearings and Special Meetings”). In addition, for detailed instructions on how to access documents using LOLA, to request that documents be emailed to you, to receive physical copies of documents, or to arrange a time to view the file at the Loudoun County Government Center, please email DPZ@loudoun.gov or call 703-777-0246 (option 5). Board of Supervisors public hearings are available for live viewing on television on Comcast Government Channel 23 and Verizon FiOS Channel 40, and livestreamed at loudoun.gov/meetings. All members of the public who desire to speak will be heard as to their views pertinent to these matters. Public input may be provided by electronic means at Board public hearings. Members of the public who wish to provide public input, whether electronically or in person, will be accommodated without advanced sign-up during the hearing, however, members of the public are strongly encouraged to sign-up in advance. For this public hearing, advanced sign-up will be taken after 8:30 a.m. on June 3, 2022, and no later than 12:00 p.m. on June 15, 2022. If you wish to sign-up in advance, call the Office of the County Administrator at (703) 777-0200. Citizens will also have the option to sign-up during the public hearing. Citizens may also submit written comments by email sent to bos@loudoun.gov. Any written comments received prior to the public hearing will be distributed to Board members and made part of the minutes for the public hearing. Hearing assistance is available for meetings in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room. If you require any type of reasonable accommodation as a result of a physical, sensory or mental disability to participate in this meeting, please contact the Office of the County Administrator at 703-777-0200. At least one business day of advance notice is requested; some accommodations may require more than one day of notice. FM Assistive Listening System is available at the meetings. BY ORDER OF:
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
Case No.:
Case No.:
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA Virginia Code § 8.01-316
JJ046150-01-00
Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Marjorie Cruz Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v. Unknown Father
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA Virginia Code § 8.01-316
JJ041604-05-00; JJ043080-03-00; JJ043081-03-00; JJ043082-03-00
Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
PHYLLIS RANDALL, CHAIR LOUDOUN COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
NOTICE OF INTENT TO SELL REAL PROPERTY FOR DELINQUENT TAXES On or after thirty days from the publication of this Notice, proceedings will be commenced pursuant to Va. Code § 58.1-3965 et seq. to sell the following real estate located in Loudoun County, Virginia for payment of delinquent taxes: OWNER Unknown
Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Diana Gissel Medina Lainez, Gabrielle Medina Lainez, Adrienna Medina Lainez, and Karen Elizabeth Medina Lainez Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v. Jose Medina, Putative Father
The object of this suit is to hold an adjudicatory hearing regarding child protective order pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-253 for Marjorie Cruz, and; hold a dispositional hearing regarding child protective order pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-278.2 for Marjorie Cruz. It is ORDERED that the defendant Unknown Father appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before June 2, 2022 at 10:00a.m. (Adjudicatory) and June 27, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. (Dispositional).
The object of this suit is to hold a status hearing in Child in Need of Services matters pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-228 and 16.1-241 for Diana Gissel Medina Lainez, Gabrielle Medina Lainez, Adrienna Medina Lainez, and Karen Elizabeth Medina Lainez. It is ORDERED that the defendant Jose Medina, Putative Father appear at the above-named Court and protect his interests on or before June 22, 2022 at 3:00 pm.
5/26, 6/2, 6/9 & 6/16/22
5/26, 6/2, 6/9 & 6/16/22
5/26 & 6/2/22
DESCRIPTION Vacant land, 13.22 acres, more or less, in Bluemont, Virginia 20135 PIN 688-45-3782-000 Tax Map No. /68///4////UK/
The owner of any property listed may redeem it at any time before the date of the sale by paying all accumulated taxes, penalties, reasonable attorney’s fees, interest and costs thereon, including the pro rata cost of publication hereunder. Partial payment of delinquent taxes, penalties, reasonable attorney’s fees, interest or costs shall not be sufficient to redeem the property, and shall not operate to suspend, invalidate or make moot any action for judicial sale. H. Roger Zurn, Jr., Treasurer, County of Loudoun, Virginia 1 Harrison Street, S.E., First Floor P.O. Box 347 Leesburg, Virginia 20178 (703) 771-5656
6/2/22
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Legal Notices
JUNE 2, 2022
Misc. LoudounNow.com
Village of Lucketts Safety Improvements Loudoun County Virtual Design Public Hearing Thursday, June 23, 2022, 6:30 p.m. https://www.virginiadot.org/Lucketts Find out about planned safety improvements along Route 15 (James Monroe Highway) in the Village of Lucketts. The improvements include adding new sidewalks, enhancing the pedestrian crossing adjacent to the northern Lucketts Elementary School entrance, striping a new crosswalk with pedestrian signals at the Stumptown Road (Route 662) intersection, and modifying the right-turn lane to Lucketts Road (Route 662). The public hearing will be held as a virtual/online meeting. Information for accessing and participating in the virtual meeting is available at https://www.virginiadot.org/Lucketts. The project team will make a short presentation beginning at 6:30 p.m. and answer questions for about an hour after the presentation. Review project information and meeting details on the webpage above or during business hours at VDOT’s Northern Virginia District Office, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030. Please call ahead at 703-259-1795 or TTY/TDD 711 to make an appointment with appropriate personnel. In compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and 23 CFR 771, a Programmatic Categorical Exclusion has been prepared under agreement with the Federal Highway Administration. Pursuant to the National Historic Preservation Act, Section 106 and 36 CFR 800, information concerning the potential effects of the proposed improvements on properties listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places is included in the environmental document. Give your comments during the meeting, or by July 5, 2022 via the comment form on the project website, by mail to Mr. Hamid Misaghian, P.E., Virginia Department of Transportation, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030 or by email to meetingcomments@VDOT.virginia.gov. Please reference “Village of Lucketts Safety Improvements” in the subject line. VDOT ensures nondiscrimination and equal employment in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. If you need more information or special assistance for persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency, contact VDOT Civil Rights at 703-259-1775. State Project: 0015-053-128, C501, P101, R201 UPC: 68760 Federal: STP-5401 (573) In case an alternate date is needed, the meeting will be held Thursday, June 30, 2022 at the same time.
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JUNE 2, 2022
Opinion In Search of Leadership
On Sunday, members of the community and delegates representing nations across the Atlantic will gather at the Leesburg home of George C. Marshall to reflect on the significance of his call to action 75 years ago that helped rebuild Europe after years of war and shore up the foundation upon which those democracies have been able to flourish. The European Recovery Program that provided $15 billion in direct aid to 16 nations was an unprecedented undertaking, representing 5% of America’s GDP in 1948. Today, that would be sending more than $1 trillion overseas.
Nowadays, we use the term “Marshall Plan” to describe a bold initiative to tackle some seemingly unsurmountable public challenge. We say we need a Marshall Plan to address the march of immigrants at our border, or to combat poverty, or maybe to stamp out gun violence. But what we really are seeking when invoking that phrase is leadership. The Congress that adopted the ERP with broad bipartisan support wasn’t that much different to today—with both houses under control of the same political party, Republicans then, holding relatively slim majorities and myriad factions within the ranks. Yet we too
rarely see major legislation clear the Hill with much beyond party-line votes, and the most complex challenges remain unaddressed. If the nation’s leaders were entrenched in a similar political quagmire three quarters of a century ago, Europe, and the world order, likely would be drastically different. In reflecting on Marshall’s historic Harvard University speech this weekend, we should ask what similar bold action is needed today that can have a similarly critical impact on the lives of the generations who will follow. The issues are not few; it is the leadership that eludes us. n
LETTERS to the Editor The Politicization Of Everything Editor: It seems that lately everything is political, but at the Veterans of Foreign Wars we strive to avoid that as best we can. Our mission is to support veterans, their families, and (most importantly) the families of the fallen, and for those of you who contribute to our efforts, we thank you. Since the dissolution of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Political Action Committee in 2010 (less than 20 years after its founding), the VFW has maintained a strictly non-partisan position and will not endorse political candidates. The VFW’s position is clear: We have VFW members in politics on both sides of the aisle, and we’re proud of their service to the community, but we can’t endorse them directly. This becomes a concern when partisan politicians turn public ceremonies into campaign events.
At this week’s Memorial Day ceremony in Leesburg, I was disappointed to see overt political statements from both sides of the aisle, which stained the intent of this solemn ceremony. I believe the politicization of this ceremony was grossly disrespectful to those who gave their lives for our nation. I expect that this event should focus on those who have given “the last full measure of devotion” and not be an extension of someone’s political campaign. The first target of my concern is the Loudoun County Republican Committee, which put up a banner for political purposes at the ceremony. In my opinion, this was not appropriate. Although it may have been a subtle gesture, and I certainly have put my life on the life for their right to free speech, I believe that the LCRC owes the community an apology for trying to make Memorial Day political.
Unfortunately, they weren’t the only ones. Despite the VFW’s request in advance of the ceremony not to do so, Leesburg Mayor Kelly Burk turned her introduction of Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton into a political commercial that lasted more than several minutes and left many members of the audience, including me, feeling very uncomfortable. While I appreciate the congresswoman’s faithful service to our nation—and her speech was not political—the VFW had already expressed concern about her politicization of this ceremony to Mrs. Burk in writing, and Mrs. Burk’s response was less than forthcoming. And, frankly, insulting. Mrs. Burk ignored these concerns and accosted us with her political agenda, and for that I believe Mrs. Burk owes the community an apology. In fact, so does the LCRC. They both should know better. I look forward to hearing Mrs.
Burk’s apology from the dais at the next meeting of the Town Council. I expect the LCRC will want to do the same in a public format. — Dennis B. Boykin IV, Leesburg The author is a combat veteran, a prior keynote speaker at the Leesburg’s Memorial Day event, and serves as an officer in VFW Post 1177 of Loudoun County.
The Policy Editor: As a former town manager for Lovettsville, I want to share with readers the reason for the lack of a second to a motion regarding a proclamation. In your article on last week’s Pride Month proclamation request, you wrote, “Other supporters of the resolution who gathered LETTERS TO THE EDITOR continues on page 37
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Readers’ Poll
THIS WEEK'S QUESTION: What should be the most important consideration as county supervisors decide where to allow new data center development?
LAST WEEK'S QUESTION: The recall cases are closed. The budget is adopted. What should be the School Board’s top priority now?
LETTERS to the Editor continued from page 36
in the meeting room said the council’s inaction was an exhibit of bigotry and cowardice” Approximately one year ago, the Lovettsville Town Council identified several practical approaches to handling proclamation requests. They incorporated those approaches into a policy which they adopted. The creation of that policy took considerable deliberation and discussion. The adopted policy would allow them to approve only those requests that meet specific criteria contained in the policy. A careful reading of the policy would have determined that the recent Pride Month request did not meet the criteria, and therefore should never had been placed before the Town Council for consideration and a vote. The lack of a second by the council was directly related to complying with the policy criteria. If a request for a proclamation does not meet pre-determined criteria and is denied, it does not mean that the elected body does not support the communities’ interests. And, if the request does not meet the pre-determined criteria and is not approved, it does not reflect on the personal views of the Town Council or their individual views. Calling their actions as “bigoted” is inappropriate and does not take into consideration the responsibilities of local officials to create and implement policy for the good of the entire community. I respect the passion of speakers when it comes to expressing their personal beliefs. I believe they have the right and should continue to have the right to air their views and voice their concerns.
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Share your views at loudounnow.com/ polls
But I am equally passionate about the rights of public officials, both elected and appointed. They, too, have rights and should not be subject to harmful allegations which are unfounded. I spent 17 years working on and off in the Town of Lovettsville. I worked for every Lovettsville mayor and most every councilperson and, I haven’t always agreed with their views. And I, too, voiced my concerns when I disagreed. The Lovettsville Town Council’s action on this issue was an act of consistency; consistency by following a town policy. It has nothing to do with cowardice or bigotry. I applaud the actions of the Town Council for having the guts to follow a policy that is balanced, makes sense, and most importantly is designed to prevent inconsistency regarding requests for Proclamations from the community. — Samuel A. Finz, Purcellville
Belongs in Leesburg Editor: Entrepreneurship is the lifeblood of our country. Without entrepreneurs we would not have Apple, Google, Microsoft, or Amazon. Locally, we have Mom’s Apple Pie, Weird Brothers Coffee, and Salamander Resort and Spa, just to name a few great locations started by entrepreneurs. Our country and our area need entrepreneurs to continue our strong economic presence. With that said, I was disheartened to hear that the Mason Enterprise Center is exiting Leesburg. Entrepreneurs can have a great idea but not know how to execute their vision. As a community college professor of business and entrepreneurship, I encounter students frequently who have wonderful ideas but nowhere to find financing, how to market, how to price a good or service, the difference between
an employee or contractor, how to obtain a patent or trademarks, and many where to find a location. Leesburg needs a place for entrepreneurs to find the resources to succeed. Imagine a downtown Leesburg that has an entrepreneur center on Loudoun, Market, or King Street. An entrepreneur with a great idea walks in and gets all the resources they need to startup. Mentored startups have a much higher rate of success than go-it alone individuals. Entrepreneurs need a place to test their product or service. Testing a good or service is vital to the future of a startup. Leesburg requires an entrepreneur center. Not a coworking space but a place that future entrepreneurs can thrive by finding all the resources they require. Leesburg is becoming more vibrant and varied each month. Those businesses will not be there forever though. Leesburg can have a center that is churning out tested goods and services ready to open a new business venture. The community has a myriad of entrepreneurial thinkers who do not have a place to test out their ideas. Whatever we call it, an entrepreneur center, innovate center, or incubator must exist in downtown Leesburg if we are to be the Hometown of the 21st Century. — Todd Cimino-Johnson, Leesburg
On the List Editor: I lowered my hat and my eyes as I passed the state trooper. I didn’t have the time or the bail money to be arrested. Such is life on Virginia’s Most Wanted list. Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s first executive order—released only hours after his inauguration on Jan. 15—forbade the teaching of divisive subjects. On Jan.
21, a news release announced the email tip line for parents to report violations of their children’s fundamental rights due to inherently divisive practices in schools. On Jan. 24, he assured listeners of his radio interview that such violations would be cataloged and rooted out. Then, two days later, I became an outlaw. On Wednesday, Jan. 26, Mr. Jeff Manning, a man who, as far as I can determine, does not live in Loudoun County, emailed my school address, “I hope you find yourself on Jason Miyares’s radar. I will do everything within my power to bring your divisiveness to our elected official’s attention. You gave (sic) no business teaching children.” Mr. Manning cc’ed me on his tip line email, “Good evening Mr. Youngkin, Thank you for setting up this tip line. Please review this teacher from Loudoun County. Her name is Andrea Weiskopf. She is a terribly divisive and racist woman that spews hatred to her students and society in general. … She should not be teaching children anyway! Jeff Manning”. Curious to learn the extent of my violations, I submitted a FOIA request to Mr. Manning’s friend, Mr. Youngkin. After five working days, Mr. Youngkin’s office invoked, without explanation, a seven-day extension before informing me that the snitch line emails are exempt “as working papers and correspondence of the Office of the Governor. The documents in question are on a sizeable gmail account which changes daily.” My request denied, I am left to ponder my offenses. The lives of my Black students matter. White supremacy and systemic racism exist. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR continues on page 38
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Data centers continued from page 1 its June 1 meeting and in July. The Department of Economic Development has also identified an area of southeast Loudoun, which it has dubbed “Dulles Cloud South,” as potential new land for data center development. It is a proposal the department previously put forth and was rejected during the county’s work on a new comprehensive plan. In that area, the department recommended enhanced standards such as requiring zero-carbon energy. “We wanted to make sure that if that was considered, that it would have some sort of layer of protection, some opportunity to really restrict how that Is done in order to protect those around it, and the environment, and those kinds of things,” said Department of Economic Development Executive Director Buddy Rizer.
LETTERS to the Editor continued from page 37
White supremacy and systemic racism must be destroyed. Transgender children must be protected. LGBTQ families and single-parent families are families. Every child should see themselves reflected in literature. I want every student in Loudoun to be affirmed and to know that they belong. I am Virginia’s most wanted. — Andrea Weiskopf, Ashburn The writer is a Loudoun County Public Schools middle school English and Latin teacher.
Reconsider Editor: Last October, the majority of the Leesburg Town Council voted to enforce the vaccine mandate for government employees and subsequently seven Leesburg Police Officers were terminated in one form or another from the already depleted work force. In my opinion, the risk they presented to the public with routine testing was miniscule. More recently, only two councilwomen, Suzanne Fox and Kari Nacy, voted to reinstate these officers [under established hiring procedures], but this motion also was denied by the majority. Mere replacement hiring is insufficient to meet the high number of staff vacancies, currently at 21 positions, per Chief Greg-
JUNE 2, 2022
At their meeting in April, committee members were once again split but skeptical of that proposal, but were open to further exploring opening up part of that area near an intersection of major power lines, east of Auburn Farm Road and south of Braddock Road. “You have a whole mass of land here that’s highly unpopulated, so why wouldn’t you consider using that?” said Supervisor Caleb E. Kershner (R-Catoctin). But Supervisor Tony R. Buffington (R-Blue Ridge) said, by that logic, the county would permit data centers across the rural area—“man, we could make so much money if we had data centers all the way to the top of the Blue Ridge Mountain.” He pointed out that would be further data center development in the county’s Transition Policy Area, which divides the Rural and Suburban policy areas. “I think it’s silly, I think it’s completely opposite of what the public told us they want. I think that this is dangerous territo-
ry for Loudoun County,” Buffington said. “It would change the face of Loudoun County the future of Loudoun County if we start pushing data west into our more rural areas, that by policy area are designated to be that way. I think it’s a horrible, horrible idea.” And supervisors generally agreed that data centers should not be permitted near homes—or, Supervisor Kristen C. Umstattd (D-Leesburg) pointed out, the reverse. “I think it’s unwise to allow residential near land that is zoned for data centers, so I think we need to look at it from that perspective as well,” she said. Talk of limiting data center development has been answered with a coordinated campaign to push back by the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce, which has urged members to speak to supervisors in opposition. Supervisors will move ahead with general policy ideas, such as permitting data centers in the Route 28 Tax District,
and opposing data centers where they are today permitted by-right but where the comprehensive plan envisions mixeduse suburban neighborhoods. This week, they were expected to dive into those topics in more detail, hoping to give county planners the necessary guidance to start drafting revisions to county zoning ordinances. “This is really, really hard stuff, this is really complex. We’re dealing with hundred-million-dollar investments within the industry, an entire industry that has staked everything on the development in Loudoun County,” said committee Chairman Michael R. Turner (D-Ashburn). “They have been extraordinarily favorable and good community partners to Loudoun County, and we as supervisors are kind of caught in a position where we’ve got to do our due diligence on behalf of our constituents, and we want to do that in as unobtrusive and benign way as possible, but we do have to do it.” n
ory Brown’s May 22 presentation. And now we are once again reminded of the reality of protecting our children each day by on-site armed law enforcement officers following the heart wrenching tragedy in Uvalde, Texas, this week. There are 19 parents of deceased children who are now picking out coffins for the imminent funeral services. Even though the distance is substantial, the Town of Leesburg is not immune to violent crime, as evidenced by two homicides in the month of April alone, by two young men who were arrested and charged for the deaths. It is my firm belief that due to the diligent and conscientious Leesburg Police force, not forgetting most notably the School Resource Officers dedicated to serve within our schools, who exemplify how blessed we are that our children continue to remain safe in the classroom and elsewhere. In the weeks and months ahead, I ask for full support and appropriate action by the mayor and Town Council members to reconsider the importance of reinstating, if possible and available, the highly trained, educated and experienced Leesburg Police officers who were terminated for insufficient reason in these increasing dangerous times. May the additional staffing now and for future school terms result in more on-site School Resource Officers as well as officers on patrol to prevent and/or respond to meet the critical safety needs of teachers and children within our schools and community each day. — Rebecca Reeder, Leesburg
Stand Up
What will it be next week? We all need to be like Beto. Be Like Beto. — Susan Platt, Leesburg
Editor: I have been politically active my entire life. I fought hard for issues I thought were right and that I believed in. The past few years, I have taken a back seat. Maybe because I was getting older, dealing with an ailing spouse or just letting the next generation carry the banners. Maybe because I was disgusted in the turn our politics has taken. We keep going backwards restricting rights of women and African Americans. It has to stop. We have to ask ourselves if we will let this happen. The killing of 19 children this week in Uvalde by an 18-year-old with an assault weapon was like a slap across the face. I keep thinking about my 5-year-old granddaughter—and her brother or sister on the way—and the dangers they have to face. Seeing former congressman and Democratic candidate for governor in Texas, Beto O’Rourke, stand up to the hypocritical politicians on stage yesterday and say enough is enough was the spark I really needed. That was bravery. He was called a “sick son of a bitch” for standing up and challenging the “leaders” on stage beholding to the NRA. They are the feckless ones—they are the sick ones. It doesn’t have to be this way. We shouldn’t have to fear for our lives every single day. We don’t have to let a small number of politicians impose their distorted view on the rest of us. We can stand up to these politicians. We need to stand up to these politicians. Last week ,it was 10 African Americans gunned down, this week its 19 children.
Beyond the Muskets Editor: Since the most recent mass killing, the two camps have restated their positions; one for restrictions, the other for the status quo. This is not dialogue and will simply continue the stalemate. Should the first question be, “Are these killings a problem? Is this just part of America’s gun tradition?” If this is the current American norm, let’s move on and solve other problems, say immigration. Yet, people and communities are ravaged by these killings, so inaction is dereliction. The suggestion to place retired military in schools flat forgets that in Buffalo, the shooting was in a supermarket. In Pittsburgh and Texas, churches. In Aurora, a theater. Perhaps a hint of a plan comes from the name “assault-style” weapon. Does one assault a deer? A sidearm, a shotgun or a bolt action rifle should provide one with adequate tools for personal protection and hunting, while admittedly inadequate for attacking entrenched infantry. Mr. Madison wrote the Second Amendment in a time of black powder and ram rods. While I cannot speak for him, I feel he would modify the Second to recognize today’s advanced weapons and place some reasonable restrictions on the right to own. — FW Lillis, Leesburg
JUNE 2, 2022
Read Together continued from page 1 AnnMarie said. “… I think that’s a huge accomplishment for any teacher, to stay in a child’s mind.” All Ages Read Together was founded by Karen Schaufeld and preschool teacher Sandy Shihadeh. Schaufeld had gone to a conference about the aging population, and happened to hear about a nursing home where, for lack of space, there was also a preschool. Over time, the older residents started to join in and work with the kids, and the kids started learning “by leaps and bounds” while the residents felt happier and a renewed sense of purpose. “It seemed like such a no-brainer to take an underutilized resource and serve an underserved population, especially in Loudoun County where we started because the Head Start spaces were so limited and there’s no universal preschool,” she said.
Jameson continued from page 3 than 23 years ago, Carol’s leadership in our nonprofit community is unparalleled,” said Loudoun Human Services Network Chairwoman and Loudoun Cares Executive Director Valerie Pisierra. “Carol truly embodies the philosophy that we are all stronger together. Her strong belief in the power of partnerships has led to so many amazing initiatives that have positively impacted Loudoun County. Our community has been shaped in many ways by Carol’s thoughtful, compassionate, and strategic leadership.” “Under her leadership thousands of our
Thodos continued from page 3 around testimony from multiple victims, notably from the deputies, plus a combination of physical and video evidence to substantiate the charges. Store security officers Mohamed Amin and Jade Puslaski testified along with the owner of the stolen truck. During closing arguments, Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Shaniqua Clark Nelson returned to the video to highlight footage from the security cameras obtained from the Walmart and from Ewing’s body-worn camera. The body camera footage began as Ewing arrived at the scene in his police cruiser, continued throughout the entirety of the incident and ended with him apply-
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The program started with a single site at Sunrise Assisted Living in Leesburg, and over years grew and experimented with the format. Shihadeh said the program has moved out of assisted living into libraries, churches and senior centers, along with summer programs in the schools themselves. With 10-12 programs over the course of a year between Loudoun, Fairfax, Arlington and Alexandria, she said the program serves around 150 kids each year. Over time, the curriculum also evolved. At first, the plan was to introduce classic children’s books, but they realized they would have to start with basics like numbers, colors and letters—a preschool curriculum—and folding in weekly themes to stay fun. The COVID-19 pandemic also took some creativity to navigate, as it closed public spaces and made gatherings dangerous, especially for the elderly and the very young. But that, too, had its upside,
Schaufeld said. “One of the silver linings of COVID, among other things, is that because parents had to be more involved, there was a lot more interactions with parents on how they could better help their kids, which was really important because then they understood why kids were given the materials that kids were given,” Schaufeld said. She said that also helped parents learn the kinds of daily interactions that help their kids get ready for kindergarten. “We’re fully acknowledging that parents are actually the kid’s teachers, day one,” she said. That can be a challenge for a new parent, AnnMarie said. “You go into your first child thinking, oh, you’re so excited, you can do anything, but in reality, you don’t realize that school hits so quickly,” she said. “… Really, truly teaching your child how to read, that is something that almost has to be taught to parents unless you’ve been educated in
that.” But Heidi had no problem with that. “In elementary school at least, we would do these reading competitions,” Heidi recalled. “And my mom and I always laugh about them because it got to the point where I was surpassing all of the kids by—” “—Twenty and 30 books,” AnnMarie said. “You start something, you never know where it’s going to end up,” Schaufeld said. “You just keep trying to improve and just do the best you can and hope that something as beautiful as this happens, and it is happening.” “I was that kid who was obsessed with the Hunger Games series, and the Maze Runner, and that just played into my overall personality growing up,” Heidi said. “If I hadn’t read those books, I probably wouldn’t be the same person I am today.” Learn more about All Ages Read Together at allagesreadtogether.org. n
neighbors have accessed quality healthcare, dental care, behavioral health and pharmacy services,” said immediate past chair and Loudoun Hunger Relief President and CEO Jennifer Montgomery. “They have a healthcare home which means that they will have better health outcomes and prevention, effectively impacting so many lives. Her legacy is access to healthcare for Loudoun and Fairfax County.” Asked about her proudest accomplishments at HealthWorks, Jameson, characteristically, deflected to praise her team and community partners. “We had a period of financial difficulty and I’m often complimented that I brought us through that, but I have to say so I’m proud that we came through that, we came
through that because of our team, and I just cannot stress that enough,” she said. And she stressed no idea happens without them making it work, such as expanding into new medical services like behavioral health, psychiatry or dental care. She also hailed the community partnerships that, for example, co-locate HealthWorks and government services, or their services with a food pantry. Now, Jameson said she hands off leadership to Adkins with full confidence, who she said has shown herself a “magnificent leader” during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in the first months while HealthWorks stayed open but there was no vaccine. “It was scary. Our team was really ener-
gized by being part of the response, the vibe was quite positive and I’m so, so proud of [that],” she said. “And so much of that was due to Dr. Adkins’s leadership, because they knew they had a leader who was up to date on the facts, who was staying current, who had their welfare [in mind] and was doing everything that needed to be done so that we could see our patients and see them safely…. To me those leadership skills will be applicable no matter what the setting.” But she won’t be stepping out of nonprofit work—Jameson already has her eye on joining another nonprofit board, to keep serving the community as she has for decades. Learn more about HealthWorks for Northern Virginia at hwnova.org. n
ing the tourniquet to Gentry after he was badly wounded. A total of 10 shots were fired by both parties, seven by Thodos and three in response by Ewing. The tape cuts out after several minutes of Ewing consoling Gentry, who was noticeably distraught after losing a considerable amount of blood from his legs. Ewing assures him while they wait for the rescue team to arrive, “You’re not going to die, brother.” “Deputy Gentry stands here today because of the actions of Deputy Ewing,” Clark Nelson said. In his summation of the case, defense attorney Adam Pouilliard told the jury that prosecutors were “trying to overwhelm you with emotion and blind you to the overall facts that have been presented.” Clark Nelson countered by saying that the commonwealth is only “shining light on the conduct that created the injuries.”
The defense built its closing argument around two main points, which according to Pouilliard were “the failure of the investigation,” and “the lack of ballistic evidence.” He said there was a lack of evidence present in the trial in comparison to the scene of the crime, specifically questioning the origin and location of the bullets that struck Gentry. Both parties routinely debated the specific locations of the victims, the angles at which the firearms were discharged, and the nature of the bullets after they were shot. The defense argued that there was no conclusive evidence to rule out that the bullets that hit the two security officers, and Gentry were not those fired by Deputy Ewing. Pouilliard said the jury should see in the video that Thodos “is not aiming at them, he is attempting to scare them and get away.” Clark Nelson encouraged the jurors to
slow down the video during their deliberations to see the specific reaction of certain items in the room to the gunshots fired by Ewing to prove that his bullets did not strike Gentry. Pouilliard also refuted the grand larceny charge stemming from the stolen pickup, arguing the vehicle was not valued at more than $1,000, making it petty larceny, and stating Thodos had no intention of permanently stealing the vehicle. Prosecutors cited the owner’s testimony that the truck was worth between $2,300 to $2,500, while also arguing that Thodos had no intentions of returning the vehicle after crashing it into a tree. n Nick Cheshire is a rising junior at Virginia Tech studying multimedia journalism and a summer intern at Loudoun Now.
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