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JUNE 18, 2020
Board Briefed on 2-Day School Plan BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
Thomas graduated from Heritage High School while his older brother Remi, also a Heritage alum, graduated from Concordia University in Montreal. “It was a double whammy for us,” said
During a five-hour work session Tuesday night, the School Board took a detailed walk through the planning concepts for a new school year in which students could be asked to work from home most of the week. Administrators and board members said they hope for a return to normal classroom operations next fall, but public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 makes that an unlikely goal at this point. Planning now is focused on a program that would bring students to school only two days a week, with a beefed up—and more productive—distance learning program. Interest in the details of how that would work is high, with more than 400 teachers and parents having watched the webcast of the School Board’s virtual work session Tuesday night. The structure of the schedule, two days in class and three days at home, is largely dictated by requirements for physical distancing in classrooms. If desks are spread apart to meet the guidelines, there will be room for only 10 or 17 students in a room at a time. Superintendent Eric Williams said it still isn’t clear whether the school capac-
COVID COMMENCEMENT continues on page 39
SCHOOL PLAN continues on page 38
Douglas Graham/Loudoun Now
Thomas Bernard graduated from Heritage High School last week, and his brother Remi graduated from college earlier this spring. Thomas heads to JMU to study computer information systems this fall.
‘A Crash Course in Life’
Loudoun Celebrates Commencements in the Age of COVID BY JAN MERCKER
jmercker@loudounnow.com
They walked across stages in empty auditoriums. They missed senior proms and senior trips. Last week, Loudoun’s high school graduates finished up a year like no other with smiles, grace and a few tears.
Because of COVID-19, this year’s seniors missed big milestones and are moving into an uncertain world. For grads and their parents, there’s a sense of loss but also some unexpected blessings. For the Bernard family of Leesburg, this spring was supposed to be full of parties with plenty to celebrate. Their son
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‘Anti-Racist’ Demonstrations Continue into Third Week LOUDOUN NOW STAFF REPORT
Marches, protests and demonstrations have continued into their third week as people across Loudoun continue to call for systemic change to address racial inequality in America. Once again, young people have taken up leadership in the Black Lives Matter movement, including on Saturday in the form of a protest in Ashburn organized by Briar Woods High School alumni Kelvin Brewington and Robert Marshal—a march from the National Recreation & Park Association in Brambleton to the Broadlands Village center. “People in Ashburn don’t think this can happen,” Brewington said. Brewington said he and Marshal were motivated to organize the march because of the racial issues they experienced at Briar Woods High School. At the march, cars honked as they drove by and some opened their windows to put their fists in the air. Honks were met with cheering and chants of “Black Lives Matter.” Marchers chanted as they walked, including call and response chants such as, “Say their names,” followed by “Which one?”—a variation on chants in which marchers respond with “George Floyd,” “Breonna Taylor” or other victims of police violence. Angela Marsh, of Ashburn, who attended the protest with her daughter, her husband and their dog, said, “I would like for everyone to do a self-awareness check,” on understanding racism in the police force. Malcolm Blacken, a father from Ashburn, said he attended the march because he wanted to improve his community and prevent injustice. “I have biracial children. I want them to grow up in a society where they don’t feel like they have to look over their shoulders,” Blacken said. Peter Nwachukwu, a graduate of Briar Woods High School, spoke at the protest. He said when he and his father went to buy a gun, “everyone stared at us.” And he said he is hoping for police reform, including defunding the police, a refrain that has become common among protesters across the nation. It is also one surrounded by debate about what that means. “That doesn’t mean elimination of the police,” Nwachukwu said. “That means allocating a portion of the budget spent on police on other things.” Nwachukwu also said he felt like the protests have helped combine action with
Patrick Szabo/Loudoun Now
Close to 1,000 people marched down Gloucester Parkway in Ashburn on Sunday as part of a rally organized by the Loudoun NAACP.
virtue signaling. “It would be wrong of me to sit at home and to do nothing,” Nwachukwu said. “Everybody signs the petitions, posts on their social media, but that’s just virtue signaling. You need to get out here and try to do something.” Now, he said, “people are backing up what they say, and I feel like people are more in tune with what’s happening.” The protest turned around at the Broadlands Village Center, where protesters kneeled and listened to speeches, including one by Peter Smith, a black man originally from Jamaica. “When you hear all men are created equal, that’s true. But all men are not treated equal, and we have to recognize that,” Smith said, followed by loud applause. On Sunday, attorney and Gateway Community Church congregant Dominique Callins led a march in South Riding that ended with calls to the church community and white people to break their silence on racial injustice. The march brought together more than 200 people from several different churches, marching from the Dulles South Recreation Center along Tall Cedars Parkway to Gateway Community Church. In speeches in front of the church, attendees were called upon to speak up and take action as a matter of faith. “White friends, could we please lay down our comfort levels and build a bridge to a black friend,” said Steph Fink, a white woman. “Ask about their story and culture. Listen and grieve at past and present injustices.”
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
Dominique Callins organized a demonstration in South Riding on Sunday calling on people to fight racism as an article of faith.
She said the church has not done enough for black people in pain. “The world will know who we, the church, not by our political leanings, clever social media posts, or relying on just our own past experiences,” Fink said. “The world will know us by our love.” “The American church was not and is not immune to the diseases of racism,” Callins, a black woman, said. “But more than the overt actions, the American church, and dare I say it, the white American church, has been complicit in its resounding silence on the issues of racial injustice. The church speaks out in the cause of the unborn, but cannot be hard over the cries of dying unarmed black men and women, being killed consistently, indiscriminately and as a matter of policy.” She urged marchers to take an active
role and be “anti-racists.” “We are being called as a people to take a stand, to brave, to do the hard, to do the uncomfortable things,” Callins said. “When you see another individual with his knee on a man’s neck, it’s not enough for you to stand idly by and say, ‘I wasn’t the one who did it.’ You need to pull that man up off of that other person’s neck. There’s no time for us to be shy anymore.” Gateway Lead Pastor Ed Allen, who conceded “I’m one of those people who has been too silent for too long,” led attendees in kneeling for 8 minutes and 46 seconds, a span of time that has taken on symbolic importance after then-Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin knelt on the neck of black man George Floyd for that long, killing Floyd as he begged to be allowed to breathe. Callins also urged people to vote, to read, and to “sincerely, earnestly engage with one another.” “Still in this day and age, still in this area … you see people who look like each other hanging out, and we need to be purposeful and intentional,” Callins said. “We have so much more in common than we have that divides us. Once we start seeing human beings as human beings, it takes on a totally different context, and when those human beings happen to be law enforcement, and happen to be the policymakers, then that’s when change really starts.” And weekend demonstrations were DEMONSTRATIONS continues on page 38
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Loudoun
Loudoun, Leesburg to Reopen Parks, Facilities BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ AND RENSS GREENE
With Northern Virginia entering the second phase of a gradual reopening from COVID-19 pandemic precautions, Loudoun County and the Town of Leesburg have begun reopening parks, pools, fields and other amenities to the public. On Monday, Loudoun County childcare services and outdoor fitness programs began reopening. On Friday, June 19, outdoor pools open and Monday, June 22, all aquatic, community, recreation and senior centers reopen. Families registered in programs scheduled to start before June 22 will receive refunds. The county is also allocating field time for affiliated sports leagues. Programs will be modified to fit with Phase 2 safety guidelines, including enhanced cleaning and 10-foot social distancing during activities. Attendance is limited to 30 percent of occupancy or 50
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
The Dulles South Recreation Center’s indoor pool, which is reopening for some activities.
people in each group, whichever is less. Meanwhile, baseball, softball and cricket teams may do drills, practices and
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games, while other sports are limited to conditioning drills. Attendance, including participants and parents, guardians and
caretakers of children, is limited to half of normal field occupancy or 50 people, whichever is less. County parks are already open for outdoor recreational and leisure use, with 50 or fewer people permitted at each amenity or designated area. Summer park programs will begin June 22. And visitors to all county facilities will be expected to follow social distancing guidelines and other safety measures to help slow the spread of COVID-19. The Franklin Park Performing and Visual Arts Center, the Franklin Park Pool splash pad and play features, adult day centers, indoor leisure pool features such as slides and hot tubs, and climbing walls remain closed. Get more information about Loudoun Parks, Recreation and Community Service reopening at loudoun.gov/5331/ PRCS-Closures-and-Operating-Status. PARKS REOPEN continues on page 6
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JUNE 18, 2020
Unemployment, Tax Collections Promising, but ‘We’re Still in a Deep Hole’ BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com
The county government got good news with strong collections from the June 5 tax collection deadline and an improving unemployment report, but as Department of Economic Development Executive Director Buddy Rizer warned, “we’re still in a deep hole.” The May unemployment report showed the fewest new unemployment claims since March, and for the first time since March continuing claims went down. But, Rizer noted, “other than April it’s still the highest unemployment since the Great Depression.” And he said adding jobs back also presents its own challenges. “A lot of sectors are adding jobs, but the biggest risers have been in retail and restaurant, which of course was the hardest-hit
early on,” Rizer told the Board of Supervisors’ finance committee this week. “That, of course, comes with its own set of challenges. We’re currently working through a lot of situations where employees going back to work actually costs them money, because they lose their unemployment benefits.” Meanwhile, June local tax collections, which Treasurer Roger Zurn had warned could be low as people felt the economic hardship of the COVID-19 pandemic and missed payments, are on track to match previous years. Chief of Staff Caleb Weitz reported that collections are similar to the previous year so far. “When I spoke with the treasurer earlier today, he has been very pleasantly surprised with how well this collection is going based on his historical experience,” Weitz said. “So far, in looking at the payments coming in, there are not major warning signs of seeing any difficulties with the collection.”
But there, too, some warned, the county is not yet in the clear. The effect of impacts on county revenues lag behind the economic hardships that cause them. “I think our general posture going into this was, regardless of the June 5 collection, the one that we’re probably watching more carefully is the Dec. 5, because that’s when we’re going to see fallout effects,” said finance committee Chairman Matthew F. Letourneau (R-Dulles). County Administrator Tim Hemstreet agreed that he expected strong June tax collections, and that county won’t see the revenue impacts of an economic downturn until the fall. He advised supervisors to hold off on unfreezing new hires or taking money out of their $100 million reserve fund. The county’s annual finances also appear to be in the black, with a projected yearend general fund balance of around $31.1 million. That is still a far cry from previous
years, when the county’s year-end fund balance has approached $100 million, but a hopeful sign as Hemstreet had warned supervisors earlier in the year that the county was dangerously close to breaking even on the budget. By the law the county government cannot operate at a deficit. And Rizer said there is hope for recovery as businesses enter the first phases of reopening. “We’ve worked directly with our businesses, and especially over the last couple of weeks as we’ve gotten through the ‘Loudoun is Ready’ process and have been counseling businesses on reopening, there is what I would call a bubbling sense of optimism that’s starting to come back,” Rizer said. “And I think if we can get everybody to start feeling that confidence— especially the consumers—I think we might be OK.” n
Young Republicans Launch Recall Effort Against Randall BY RENSS GREENE
rgreene@loudounnow.com
Randall
Parks reopen continued from page 5 Get more information about COVID-19 in Loudoun at loudoun.gov/covid19. The Town of Leesburg, too, is reopening facilities. The Ida Lee Park Recreation Center will reopen at 30 percent capacity with modified hours and limits on some equipment. Operations will be modified to maintain 10 feet of social distancing. Indoor fitness classes will resume and the gym will be open for shooting basketball (no games) with a maximum of four people, per hoop, at a time. The racquetball courts will also reopen for single play only. The indoor pool will be available for lap swimming and exercise only. A maximum of three people will be allowed per lane. Ida Lee’s outdoor pool, the A.V. Symington Aquatic Center, will remain closed during Phase 2. Town ballfields, basketball courts, playgrounds, and park pavilions will also
The Loudoun County Young Republicans have launched an effort to recall Chairwoman Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) over her participation in a rally against police violence and racial injustice in Leesburg Sunday, May 31. The rally, organized in the wake of the reopen. The outdoor tennis courts, community gardens, dog park, and skate park opened during Phase 1. The Thomas Balch Library will expand the hours for in-person research appointments, which began in Phase 1. Drop-ins will not be available at this time. Go to leesburgva.gov/library for details. Leesburg Town Hall will resume its lobby reception coverage, on Monday, June 15, while the second and third floors will reopen to the public. Plan and permit intake and pickup will return to the second floor windows. Additional changes to town facilities and programs will be posted to the town’s website as they are implemented. For more information regarding Phase 2 in the Town of Leesburg, go to leesburgva. gov/coronavirus. Loudoun County Health Department Director Dr. David Goodfriend warned the reopening does not mean the pandemic is over. “It is important to recognize that while the steps Loudoun residents have taken
latest series of high-profile police killings of black people, including Breonna Taylor in Louisville, KY and most recently George Floyd in Minneapolis, MN, drew more than a thousand people into downtown Leesburg. Although almost all wore masks, social distancing was impossible in the tightly packed streets and courthouse green. By participating and speaking at the
over the past two months to reduce the spread of infection have caused the health metrics to head in the right direction and allowed us to move to Phase Two of the reopening plan, the potential for exposure to COVID-19 remains present in our community,” Goodfriend stated. “So, I continue to recommend that older adults and people with underlying health conditions use extra caution in public, and ask that all of us remain vigilant in practicing infection control measures that include washing hands frequently, staying home when sick, maintaining six foot distances when possible and wearing face coverings in public, to help keep us headed in the right direction.” Loudoun recently saw its longest stretch without the virus killing anyone since the pandemic began, according to state data. From June 2 to June 10, there were no deaths reported from COVID-19. That ended Thursday, June 11, with two more people reported to have died from the diseases, and seven more since then. As of Tuesday, there have been 3,439
rally, the group alleges, Randall violated their 14th Amendment right to equal treatment under the law, since the governor’s orders closing or limiting businesses and public gatherings were still in place. Caroline Maiorana, Chair of the Loudoun County Young Republicans, RANDALL RECALL continues on page 7 cases of the disease found, with 206 hospitalizations and 76 deaths. Health officials still do not know how many people may have the virus that causes COVID-19 without showing symptoms. Loudoun has seen 11 outbreaks of the virus in long-term care facilities, and two in congregate settings. The virus has been particularly deadly for older adults, with the youngest fatality in her 50s and most older than 80. Parks, pools and other recreation facilities have been closed for months as the government scrambled to slow the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19 and prevent hospitals from being overrun with new cases. Northern Virginia was then one of the areas in the state that was kept closed while other, less crowded parts of the state began to reopen; while Loudoun is entering Phase Two of the governor’s reopening plan Friday, the rest of the state entered the second phase on June 5. n
JUNE 18, 2020
Randall recall continued from page 6 argued Randall should have lifted those restrictions, a decision made by Governor Ralph Northam and something Randall, as a local supervisor, has no authority to do. “Instead of first lifting the ban on gatherings or allowing businesses to reopen, Chair Randall believes she is above the law,” Maiorana stated. “By destroying people’s businesses and livelihoods in the name of public safety, then violating her own order for political gain, Chair Randall has demonstrated disregard for both public safety and the law.” “The law must apply equally to all citizens of Loudoun County. Phyllis Randall not only violated the 14th Amendment and our right to equal treatment under the laws, but also the very executive decrees she has been supporting for months,” stated Arash Ebrahimi, Vice Chair of the Loudoun County Young Republicans. “By leading a gathering of over 1,500 people after shutting down Loudoun’s economy and banning gatherings of over 10 people, Chair Randall is the epitome of hypocrisy. Virginia law allows for the removal of an elected official from office through a
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petition to the Circuit Court, which then decides whether the official should be removed. Officials may be removed for “neglect of duty, misuse of office, or incompetence in the performance of duties when that neglect of duty, misuse of office, or incompetence in the performance of duties has a material adverse effect upon the conduct of the office,” or after conviction for selling illegal drugs, committing a hate crime or various sex offenses. To bring that petition to the Supreme Court, the Young Republicans must gather a number of signatures from people living in Loudoun that is at least 10 percent the number of people who voted in the last election for county chair. With 111,569 votes cast for county chair in 2019, that means they must gather 11,157 signatures. The Loudoun County Young Republicans webpage describes them as “a group of young conservatives in Virginia between ages 18 – 40.” The petition is on their website. A 2016 Loudoun Now photo of Randall featured above the petition on the Young Republicans website is used uncredited and without permission and has been darkened from the original. n
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Leesburg
Council Authorizes Funding Support for Businesses, Nonprofits BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ krodriguez@loudounnow.com
Local businesses and nonprofits may get some financial help from the Town of Leesburg, thanks to council action passed last week. The council authorized funding criteria for grants for local businesses and nonprofits from monies the town has received by way of the CARES Act federal stimulus legislation. The $4.7 million awarded to Leesburg from Loudoun County will support a little more than $3 million in grants to town businesses; $1 million in support to nonprofits that serve the Leesburg community; and just under $800,000 in funding for town government expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The criteria set by the council differed a bit from town staff ’s original recommendation presented to the council during last Monday’s work session. It lowers the bar to allow businesses with smaller annual gross earnings to include those with earnings between $25,000 to $50,000 annually. Businesses with gross earnings between $25,000 to $100,000 will be eligible to apply for a one-time grant of $2,500. Businesses with earnings between $100,001 and $1 million will be eligible for $5,000 grants. Eligible businesses must demonstrate at least a 25 percent or greater decline in sales; have between zero to 50 employees, allowing for sole proprietorships to be considered for funding; and be in good standing with the town as of March 1. Nonprofit organizations will be eligible
for a maximum grant of $50,000. Deputy Town Manager Keith Markel said town staff members will work with a panel of community leaders to establish criteria for how nonprofits will be considered for funding. The application period for businesses and nonprofits to be considered for funding is expected to open later this month, with money awarded in July. Funding for government operations related to the pandemic will include reimbursements for technology purchases and upgrades needed to support teleworking and virtual meetings; marketing support for town businesses; the purchase of personal protective equipment for town employees; and building modifications to adhere to social distancing. n
AROUND Town Patriotic Display Contest Begins
va.gov or call the front desk at Ida Lee Recreation Center at 703-777-1368.
Leesburg might not be able to host its traditional Fourth of July festivities this year because of COVID-19, but town residents can still get in the red, white and blue spirit. The Parks and Recreation Department is hosting “The Decoration of Independence,” a Fourth of July house decorating contest for those living within the corporate limits of the town. Residents are encouraged to decorate their place of residence and enter the contest no later than Thursday, June 25. Decorations must be visible from the street, sidewalk, or parking lot. Information and registration can be found at https://bit.ly/IdaLeeEvents. Judging will take place between June 26 and July 1. Judges will choose first-, second-, and third-place winners. Winners will be announced on July 2, and will receive a Wegmans gift card and yard sign. For more information go to leesburg-
Town’s AAA Bond Rating Affirmed Even a worldwide pandemic can’t tarnish Leesburg’s stellar credit rating. Fitch Ratings has affirmed the Town of Leesburg’s AAA Bond Rating, with a stable outlook. AAA is the highest rating a municipal government can receive. Key drivers to the rating included a strong economy, strong management, budgetary flexibility, and overall liquidity. Taking into account the proactive and planned budgetary responses by town management to the coronavirus pandemic, the town expects to continue to meet its 20-percent reserve policy with its unassigned fund balance. Town management had indicated Fiscal Year 2020 revenues were trending above budget projections through March, prior to the pandemic, but is now projecting a $3.6 million, or a
6.3-percent, decline compared with the budget through Fiscal Year 2020, which ends on June 30. The decline in town revenue is primarily associated with a drop-off in restaurant meals and hotel taxes and recreation fees due to the closure of Ida Lee Park facilities. Business license fees are also below projections, resulting from the current economic and public health crisis, and policy action by the town to extend and defer tax payments. Town management is addressing the revenue shortfall through a combination of higher than projected revenues from sources that have not been affected by the crisis and reductions of operating expenditures. “We reviewed Leesburg’s COVID-19 fiscal response plans with Fitch, and their confirmation of our AAA Stable rating clearly reflects their confidence in our approach to managing the financial impacts of the crisis,” said Clark Case, Leesburg’s director of Finance and Administrative Services.
JUNE 18, 2020
17 Apply for Leesburg Council Vacancy BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ krodriguez@loudounnow.com
Seventeen town residents have expressed interest in consideration for filling the Town Council’s vacancy. The vacant seat was created when Josh Thiel resigned in May. With his term expiring at year’s end, whomever is selected will serve on the council for six months, assuming an appointment is made next week. The council appointment is expected to be discussed during Monday’s work session, with an appointment made as early as Tuesday. The chosen candidate would take his or her seat immediately upon appointment. Two candidates on November’s ballot—Zach Cummings and Kari Nacy—are among those who have thrown their hats in the ring for the appointment. Marantha Edwards, a Country Club resident who served as the town’s economic development director for almost 18 years, has also asked to be considered. Tom Marshall, former Leesburg District representative on the School Board, also put his name in. A number of current and former members of the town’s citizen-led boards and commissions have also submitted an expression of interest. These include former Planning Commission chairwoman Sharon Babbin and Planning Commissioner Nicholas Clemente. Rounding out the list are Gladys Burke; Eric Christoph; Todd Cimino-Johnson; Andy Jabbour; David Kirsten; Dianne Kellum; Zachary Klares; Peter Lapp; Sean MacDonald; David Miles; and Anthony Michael Nerantzis. Former Diversity Commissioner and Loudoun County Public Library Director Chang Liu submitted an application, but withdrew her name from consideration. n
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JUNE 18, 2020
PAGE 9
Dems Endorse Burk for Mayor BY KARA C. RODRIGUEZ krodriguez@loudounnow.com
The Loudoun County Democratic Committee overwhelmingly threw its support behind Leesburg’s incumbent mayor Kelly Burk during a special meeting June 12, just days after Town Councilman Ron Campbell announced he would challenge her again for the mayor’s seat. By a 70-7 vote, Burk won the LCDC endorsement over Campbell. A total of 81 members voted during the special meeting, conducted over Zoom, with four voting not to endorse either candidate. Each candidate was given time for a stump speech, to answer questions from committee members, and offer closing comments. Burk, who has served as Leesburg’s mayor since 2017 and is running for her third term in November, said that if the LCDC believes its mission is to elect Democrats to office, she’s their candidate. “I’ve never wavered in my commitment to [the LCDC’s] mission and values. I’ve never supported, endorsed, or encouraged voters to vote for Republicans over Democratic candidates. That distinguishes me from someone who has criticized and then
quits the LCDC,” she said. Campbell maintained that he left the LCDC two years ago because his voice was not being heard over a membership issue, but that he has been a lifelong Democrat. He said the “I Can’t Breathe” rally he helped organize two weekends ago encouraged him to reach back out to the organization. Campbell has served on the Town Council since 2017 and his fouryear term will expire at year’s end. This is his second time challenging Burk for the mayor’s seat, having finished third in a three-way race in 2018. “What I came away with [after the rally] was a great sense of it’s time to do more. It’s time to put away the swords, it’s time for reconciliation and some healing. I don’t take it lightly that I’m here tonight, but I believe that I seek Democratic justice for Leesburg. Justice is reflected in our values, in our compassion, in our fairness, in our inclusiveness. That’s what separates me from the mayor,” he said. Campbell was asked specifically by committee members why he should win the endorsement when Burk has a longer history of helping to elect Democrats to local and state offices. He maintained that Democratic loyalty should not be judged solely by being a member of one organi-
zation, but also by a candidate’s record in representing Democratic values. Campbell also took issue with a letter sent out by the LCDC’s Leesburg District Chair Mary Pellicano, which, he said, contained a series of lies and misinterpretations of his character. Earlier this week, the Leesburg Democrats voted to recommend endorsement of Burk over Campbell by a 19-1 vote. On Monday, Pellicano reached out to Loudoun Now and defended the letter in question. “The letter I sent to the Leesburg Democrats informing them about the upcoming meeting to recommend a Leesburg mayoral candidate for endorsement by the LCDC contained copies of newspaper articles and social media posts that are publicly available and accessible to anyone with an internet connection. The materials I sent were true and factual to the best of my knowledge. Furthermore, I sent two subsequent emails to Mr. Campbell, asking him to let me know if there was anything erroneous in my posting, and, if so, I would immediately and unequivocally issue a retraction and apology. He declined to respond on both occasions. I stand by my letter to the members of the LCDC Leesburg District and, as a representative of the Loudoun County Democratic Com-
mittee, my support of LCDC endorsed and democratically elected Mayor Kelly Burk,” she said. Campbell said, in response to a question during last Friday’s meeting, that he intends to stand by a pledge he signed agreeing to drop out of the mayor’s race if he did not win the Democratic endorsement. He declined to make a statement on his campaign plans on Monday, but said a statement would be forthcoming. Also during Friday’s meeting, the LCDC voted to endorse three first-time candidates running for the Town Council: Ara Bagdasarian, Zach Cummings, and Bill Replogle. The three secured 78, 80, and 75 endorsement votes, respectively. Election Day is Nov. 3. Also running for a council seat is incumbent Tom Dunn and second-time candidate Kari Nacy, both of whom were endorsed by the Loudoun County Republican Committee in their previous bids for office. Although the Town Council is a non-partisan body, political party endorsements have become a common, if not essential, practice. No candidate for either a mayoral or Town Council seat has been elected without party endorsement since the town’s elections moved from May to November in 2012. n
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Education Middleburg Academy Closes One of Loudoun’s oldest private schools has closed its doors. Leaders of the Middleburg Academy announced June 11 they lack the resources to keep the school going in the face of low enrollment, high financial aid requests and significant long-term financial needs. “As stewards of the School, we each feel a deep, personal responsibility to our community and this has been an extremely difficult decision,” members of the board of trustees wrote in a letter to parents and staff members. “We are particularly sorry for the returning students who will not have the opportunity to graduate from the Middleburg Academy. We also are saddened for the loss of a passionate and very talented staff.” The school was founded in 1965 as the Notre Dame Academy, then a Catholic boarding school for girls. In 1990, it became a co-educational Catholic day school. In 2000, the school was purchased by the board of
trustees and by 2009 transitioned to be became the Middleburg Academy operating as a fully independent, nonsectarian school. This academic year, the school transitioned to a classical education model affiliated with Hillsdale College. The school served students in grades 8-12 on its 95-acre campus north of Middleburg. The decision to close the school follows a survey of the school’s 89 families and staff members. While the responses indicated strong support for the school, “the surveys did not indicate the potential enrollment or funding needed for a sustainable operation.” “While this decision is extremely difficult for all of us, we are hopeful that our lasting memories of our Middleburg Academy community can be of the joyous moments, personal growth and enduring friendships,” the trustees wrote. n
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Insurance Tues. - Thurs.: 7am -one 4pm SPECIAL 703-771-9034 The Village Leesburg facing ofyour Loudoun for 13 years. Cochran provided trusted dental careInsurance to the citizens family’s dental needs under one roof. Insurance your family’s dental needs under roof. Route 7 has between Wegmans and Tues. - at Thurs.: 7am - 4pm haring caring and gentle style that will serve most all of 1503 Dodona Terrace y aoffice offering budget wise payment options. Dr. Route 7 between Wegmans and Fri.: 8am 1pm and gentle style that will serve most all of WHITENING 1503 Dodona Terrace LA Fitness friendly office offering budget wise payment options. Dr. Visit our website at: TheLeesburgVADentist.com 703-771-9034 of Loudoun for 13 years. Visit our website: TheLeesburgVADentist.com Fri.: 8am 1pm Conveniently located in Suite 210 LA Fitness friendly office offering budget wise payment options. Dr. Sat.: 8am 1pm (once/month) friendly offering budget wise payment options. Dr. Suite 210 office SPECIAL WHITENING The Village at Leesburg facing Visit website at: TheLeesburgVADentist.com Sat.: 8am -our 1pm (once/month) Leesburg, VA 20175 Visit our website: TheLeesburgVADentist.com Conveniently located in an has provided trusted dental care to the citizens Cochran has provided trusted dental care to the citizens rDodona family’s dental needs under one roof. Insurance 24hr Emergency Service Use your benefits before the end Leesburg, VA 20175 Cochran has provided trusted dental care to the citizens Route 7 between Wegmans and mily’s dental needs under one roof. Insurance SPECIAL 24hr Emergency Service The Village at Leesburg facing TerraceCochran has provided oftrusted dental care to the citizens the year and receive a FREE 703-771-9034 Fitness ofLALoudoun for 13 years. Route 7 between WegmansKit and Teeth Whitening with every udoun 13 years. 1503 Dodona Terrace Suite 210 for703-771-9034 of Loudoun for 13 years. ndly office offering payment options. Mon & Wed: 8-6pmbudget LA wise Fitness scheduled cleaning or procedure. WHITENING of Loudoun for 13 years. Suite 210 Visit our website at: TheLeesburgVADentist.com office offering budget wise payment options. 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RODRIGUEZ LA Fitness Leesburg, VA 20175 Mon & Wed: 8-6pm Please present to receive the offer. combined w/any other 8-1pm • Sat: 8-1pm with every scheduled Please present coupon to Sat.: 8am -Wed: 1pm (once/month) Mon &24hr 8-6pm Mon. & Wed.: 8am - 6pm •Fri: Tues. - Thurs.: 7am(Once/month) - 4pm • Fri.: 8am - 1pm •coupon Emergency Service scheduled cleaning or procedure. combined with any other offer. with scheduled Leesburg, VA 20175 Not to beTues 24hr Emergency Service Useevery your benefits before the toend receive offer. Not be & Thurs: 7-4pm Service Offer Expiresthe January 1, 2016. cleaning or procedure. 24hr Emergency Use your benefits before the end Please present coupon to w/any receive the offer. combined other Fri: 8-1pm • Sat: 8-1pm (Once/month) of the year and receive a FREE cleaning or procedure. Offer Expires Not to be combined with any8/31/16. other offer. FREE of Service the year and receive a 24hr Emergency Teeth Whitening Kit with every Offer Expires 8/31/16. Please present coupon to Mon & Wed: 8-6pm Teeth Whitening Kitcleaning with every scheduled or procedure. Please present coupon to Not to be Mon & Wed:Tues 8-6pm receive the offer. & Thurs: 7-4pm scheduled cleaning or procedure. Offer Expires January 1, 2016. receive offer. Notto w/any to be the TuesFri: & Thurs: Offer Expires January 1, 2016. Pleasethe present coupon receive offer. combined other 8-1pm 7-4pm • Sat: 8-1pm (Once/month) coupon receive the offer. combined w/any other Not toyour be to combined with any other Fri: 8-1pm • Sat: 8-1pm Use benefits before the offer. end 24hr (Once/month) Emergency ServicePlease present
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WHITENING Teeth Whitening Kit with Tues & Thurs: 7-4pm Offer Expires January 1, 2016. Please present coupon to receive theevery offer. krodriguez@loudounnow.com WHITENING Mon & Wed: 8-6pm located Conveniently in Fri: 8-1pm • Sat: 8-1pm (Once/month) scheduled cleaning or procedure. Mon & Wed: 8-6pm Please present coupon to receive the offer. nveniently located in Fri: 8-1pm • Sat: 8-1pm (Once/month) scheduled cleaning or procedure. Not to be combined with any other offer. 703-771-9034 24hr Emergency Service ,771-9034 20175 Tues & Thurs:at 7-4pm Offer ExpiresNot January 1, 2016. to be combined with anyJanuary other offer. SPECIAL Tues & Thurs: 7-4pm Offer Expires 1, 2016. 24hr Emergency Service eVA Village Leesburg facing A Leesburg elementary school looks to SPECIAL Please present coupon to receive the offer. lage at Leesburg facing 1pm • Sat: 8-1pm (Once/month) Please present coupon to receivethe the offer. Fri:website 8-1pm • Sat: 8-1pm (Once/month) Use your benefits before end Visit our at: TheLeesburgVADentist.com get a bit bigger, both in its overall size and to be combined other offer. withthe ute 7 between Wegmans Notany to be combined any other Use yourwith benefits before endoffer.student sit our website at:Emergency TheLeesburgVADentist.com 71-9034 24hr Emergency Service 24hr Service between Wegmans andNotand the and yearreceive and receive a FREE population. of theofyear a FREE LA Fitness Loudoun County Public Schools is Teeth Whitening Kit with LA TheLeesburgVADentist.com Fitness at: TheLeesburgVADentist.com website et our at: Teeth Whitening Kit with everyevery
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seeking approval for an expansion to CaWed: 8-6pm scheduled cleaning or procedure. Mon &Mon Wed:&8-6pm Elementary School. The application scheduled cleaning or procedure. & Thurs: Offer Expires January 1, 2016. toctin Tues &Tues Thurs: 7-4pm7-4pm will begin its review before the Leesburg Offer Expires January 1, 2016. present coupon to receive the offer. i: 8-1pm • Sat: 8-1pm (Once/month)PleasePlease Planning Commission Thursday and will present to receive theother offer. offer. m • Sat: 8-1pm (Once/month) Not to becoupon combined with any 24hr Emergency Service Not to be combined with any other offer. ultimately need the Town Council’s stamp 4hr Emergency Service of approval on a special exception before
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moving dirt. The application seeks approval for a one-story, 6,000-square-foot addition to the rear of the existing 76,800-squarefoot school. The expansion would accommodate three new classrooms, a resource room, an office, and storage space. It would also allow an increase to the school’s base capacity from 697 to 743 students. According to a staff report, the school had an enrollment of 658 students last September.
Loudoun Now File Photo
When the school was constructed in 1966, the Zoning Ordinance did not require special exception approval for a public school use. That changed in 2003, when a revision to the ordinance dictated that public schools in residential zoning districts require special exception approval. Catoctin Elementary is located within the R-4 zoning district, which allows for low-density residential development. More information on the project can be found at leesburgva.gov, under the Leesburg Interactive Applications MAP. n
JUNE 18, 2020
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LCDS Celebrates with Drive-Up Graduation
Loudoun Country Day School’s Class of 2020 celebrated their graduation together June 10, albeit from the from the physically distant safety of their parents’ cars parked around the circle in front of the school.
BY NORMAN K. STYER nstyer@loudounnow.com
Loudoun Country Day School’s Class of 2020 celebrated their graduation together June 10, albeit from the physically distant safety of their parents’ cars parked around the circle in front of the school. “This is far from an ordinary graduation ceremony and these are far from ordinary times,” noted Board of Trustees Chairwoman Allison Wood when opening her commencement remarks to the class. “When you began your final year at LCDS, I’m sure none of you imagined that we would enter into a global pandemic and that your final trimester would be completed through your laptop. I’m similarly sure that none of you could have imagined our society’s jobless rate would be the largest since the Great Depression and… civil unrest of the type not seen since the late 1960s would be part of our daily lives,” she said. She encouraged the students to be lifelong learners, like those now searching for an answer for how mankind can combat the coronavirus. “Be like these people in the medical profession. Never be afraid to take on new challenges. Never stop learning new things and do not listen to people who say you cannot. And, this is important, never let curiosity of childhood leave you. Be a life-long learner,” she said. Because of the safety precautions, Headmaster Randy Hollister didn’t hand out diplomas to the graduates. Instead, they got out of their cars one at a time and picked them up off a table. However, Hollister did read tributes about each student, noting their achievements at the school, comments from teachers and sharing the advice the departing students offered to the underclassmen. The ceremony concluded not with a toss of hats in the air, but with the honking of car horns. n
PAGE 11
Norman K. Styer/Loudoun Now
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JUNE 18, 2020
Public Safety Delays in Drowning Response Prompt Rescue Protocols, Review BY RENSS GREENE
rgreene@loudounnow.com
Loudoun County Fire and Rescue is investigating the confusion around 911 calls that delayed the response the night 16-yearold Fitz Thomas died of an apparent drowning, and has already made a policy change to get first responders to the scene of incidents near Loudoun’s borders more quickly.
On June 4, Fitz Thomas was pulled from the water near the confluence of the Potomac River and Goose Creek, near the River Creek community at what is known as Confluence Park. First responders arrived to find him unresponsive, with CPR already being administered, and took him to the RESCUE PROTOCOLS continues on page 13
Death at Jail Investigated as Suicide The Loudoun County Sheriff ’s Office is investigating the apparent suicide of an inmate at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center. According to the agency’s report, the inmate was found unresponsive and hanging from a sheet in his cell shortly before 10 p.m. Saturday, June 13 by staff members conducting a security check. Deputies ini-
tiated CPR and medical personnel at the ADC responded and provided emergency medical treatment. He was pronounced dead by Loudoun County rescue personnel. The inmate, Shawn C. Hitteman, 44, of Ashburn, was arrested following a domestic-related assault on June 10 and was SUICIDE continues on page 13
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Rescue protocols continued from page 12 Inova Lansdowne Pediatric ER where he was later pronounced deceased. But the decision to dispatch crew initially had been delayed. According to a statement from Loudoun Fire and Rescue, because calls came from close to the Maryland jurisdiction—the Potomac River is in Maryland—911 calls went to both Loudoun and Montgomery County, MD’s dispatch centers. That led to “extended efforts” to determine the emergency’s location, which delayed dispatching Loudoun units. How long of a delay is still under investigation; Loudoun Chief Keith Johnson said, “we’re still reviewing those timelines.” Leaders from both jurisdictions are investigating.
Suicide continued from page 12 charged with abduction, strangulation, cruelty and injuries to children, abuse
Johnson said after that incident, one policy has already been changed to avoid delays in future incidents. “We’ve instituted a new policy here already that, if we get a call in Loudoun County from somebody who says there’s somebody in the water, we’re dispatching units, I don’t care whose jurisdiction,” Johnson said. Previously, dispatchers had no clear guidance on what to do with calls near the Loudoun border. At a march organized by the NAACP over the weekend, NAACP President Michelle Thomas recounted the delays in routing 911 calls and dispatching first responders to the scene. She said it took “almost 40 minutes without professional help.” Johnson said he is reviewing recordings of all 911 calls. On Tuesday, Thomas met with Johnson to hear those calls. Loudoun Now has requested recordings of those 911 calls. n and neglect of children, and assault on a family member and violations of multiple protective orders. The investigation is being conducted by the Sheriff ’s Office and the Office of the Medical Examiner. n
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The Loudoun Free Clinic has announced that Mary Elizabeth Goldin has been hired as its new executive director. She began her duties June 1. Goldin comes to the clinic with a background in both healthcare management and clinical operations. in 2015, she served as the Executive Director – Consumer Experience with Kaiser Permanente, and was Kaiser’s Director of Surgical Specialties in the Northern Virginia region since 2010. She has experience in both administrative and clinical operations, and one of her proudest achievements was in building the volunteer program at Kaiser from the ground up. “I am honored to become part of the [Loudoun Free Clinic] team to fulfill the vision and strategy of decreasing healthcare disparity in Loudoun County,” Goldin stated. “This is an unprecedented time for healthcare in the United States and the ability of LFC to care for those who otherwise would not have access is only accentuated.” On top of her Kaiser work, Goldin has also worked staff nursing and supervision duties at Reston Hospital Center, George Washington University Medical Center, and Georgetown University Hospital. Her nursing career included work in the emergency room, intensive care unit, AIDS research and oncology. She has a
Photo by Colleen Breuning
Mary Elizabeth Goldin has been hired as the Loudoun Free Clinic’s new Executive Director.
Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC and an MBA from Columbia Southern University in Orange Beach, AL. “We received many impressive resumes during this Executive Director search, but from the beginning Maribeth stood out as the top contender,” stated Bill Schmidt, Chairman of the clinic’s Board of Directors. “We envision her as the leader who will take the clinic to exciting new heights in the future.” n
GIVING back Become a Virginia Master Naturalist Registration is open for the 2020 Virginia Master Naturalist volunteer training program at the Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve near Leesburg. In response to COVID-19, the class size will be greatly reduced to provide social distancing, and the classroom will be sanitized before and after each class. Participants will learn about native plants, mammals, birds, trees, fish, weather and more in classes which meet two Saturdays a month from September 2020 through April 2021. The purpose of the training is to educate volunteers to work on projects like monitoring bat populations, evaluating and reporting on the health of local waterways, teaching and inspiring a love of nature, monitor-
ing bluebird nests, planting native trees and plants, counting butterflies, helping to reestablish American chestnut trees, creating signs for significant trail locations and many other projects. Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve, located at 21085 The Woods Road, includes 700 acres of forests, fields, ponds and streams in which to conduct field studies, continuing education and volunteer service projects. All fieldwork related to the classroom material is conducted on site to provide a deeper understanding of the subject material. The course is open to anyone 18 years or older. No experience necessary. The total cost is $250, which includes all class materials. For information, course GIVING BACK continues on page 15
JUNE 18, 2020
GIVING back continued from page 14
schedule and application, go to www. vmnbansheereeks.org. For inquiries, call 703-447-0490.
ECHO Partner Eurest Wins SourceAmerica Award Eurest, a long-standing partner of the Leesburg-based nonprofit ECHO, won a SourceAmerica Achievement award, taking home one out of 10 awards available to over 1,200 nonprofit agencies. SourceAmerica is a network of nonprofits that provide employment opportunities to more than 45,000 people with significant disabilities by facilitating contracts with the federal government. The annual awards recognize organizations that support the employment of people with disabilities. Eurest, whose submissions from ECHO first went through a round of 22 internal judges, followed by an external panel of judges, to win SourceAmerica’s Business Partnership Award. Eurest has partnered with ECHO for the past five years for comprehensive utility work for the busy commercial cafeteria and kitchen at the Oath Campus, including dishwashing and drying. The contract employs eight participants per day with a total of 11 participants employed per week. Eurest has impacted the lives of 14 individuals with disabilities through employment in a fast-paced corporate cafeteria which serves over 1,600 meals each day. Eurest has expanded the partnership from five to eight individuals with disabilities, providing greater independence for each individual.
Loudoun Hunger Distributes 119 Tons of Food in May Loudoun Hunger Relief distributed 119 tons of food to people in need in the month of May, the nonprofit reported last week. And they did it with less than half as much help as usual—due to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic, the nonprofit has had to drastically reduce the number of hours their volunteers serve. While in a normal month the hunger nonprofit would see more than 1,000 volunteer hours, they had only 435 volunteer hours in May. Those 119 tons of food, according to the nonprofit, equate to 3.5 tractor-trail-
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er loads of food. The pantry distributed milk, eggs, meat, fresh produce, and shelf-stable food, as well as diapers, wipes, toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, gloves, masks, and pet food both at the pantry and through community partners. The pantry itself served 3,141 households, more than 14,000 people. Sixteen percent of those households were new in May. It is also an increase from April, in which the nonprofit distributed 102 tons.
PAGE 15
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FIRE SAFETY
BARNS & COOPS The Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System wants to keep you and your farm family safe! Use this fire safety checklist to prevent a fire in your barn, coop, shed or enclosure. Keep heat producing appliances, like heat lamps, at least three feet away from anything that can burn. Secure heat lamps as if they were a permanent fixture: clamps and clips can fail. Ensure children or animals cannot accidently move or tip over heating appliances. Brush cobwebs and dust from light fixtures and outlets regularly. Choose electrical equipment rated for agricultural or commercial use. Read and follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully before use. Choose outlets and switch boxes designed to keep out dust and water. It is not recommended to use extension cords in barn areas. If you must, use only heavy duty cords and check all wiring for damage. Store baled hay AWAY from livestock. Hay/bedding storage should not be near lights, fans, electrical boxes, heaters or outlets.
For additional fire and life safety information, visit loudoun.gov/firemarshal or call 703.737.8600.
$1 million
In April and May 2020, Loudoun County experienced a significant amount of barn and chicken coop fires caused by heat lamps located too close to combustible materials. These fires have resulted in over one million dollars of damages and the loss of beloved pets.
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PAGE 16
JUNE 18, 2020
Business Marasco to Lead Cadmus Board
Kathy Shipley Excellence in Real Estate RE/MAX Premier Each office independently owned and operated www.KathyShipley.com | kathyshipleyremax@comcast.net 540.822.5123 | 703.314.5539 | 540.338.0300
NEW LISTING
2 ACRES Just the perfect charm filled home. So much to love here. Large kitchen with beautiful brick wall. Dining room with hardwood floors and attached sun room. Living room with access to front deck. Two main level bedrooms with full bath. Spiral stair case leads to sun filled office with an upper balcony, master and full bath. Many closets for storage. Gorgeous 2 acre lot with garage, sweet shed that has electric and tons of possibilities, grape arbor, additional buildings & basketball quart. Lovely standing seam roof, newer siding, new dual heating oil burning furnace with air circulation and heat pump back up. Central a/c. Great location off all hard surface roads.
Amy Marasco of Hillsboro has been elected as chairwoman of the Cadmus Board, effective June 1. She succeeds Gene Fax, who co-founded Cadmus with Ralph Jones and served as Marasco chairman for 17 years. Fax will remain on the board. Marasco has been a leader in environmental policy and management for more than 30 years. Since joining Cadmus’ board in 2005, she has been a strong advocate for and supporter of Cadmus’ strategic vision. She has co-founded and served as CEO of two firms, including the Arlington-based Marasco Newton Group, and continues to coach senior executives of small womanand minority-owned businesses in business strategy, M&A, and organizational effectiveness initiatives. She is the president and founder of the national nonprofit The Nature Generation and serves as the vice
mayor of Hillsboro. “Amy’s election as Board Chair is fantastic news for Cadmus and for our clients,” stated President and CEO Ian Kline.
Dunwoody Named Ashby Ponds Sales Manager Ashby Ponds, a senior living community developed and managed by Erickson Living, promoted Elizabeth Dunwoody to the position of sales manager. Dunwoody joined Ashby Ponds in July 2017, beginning her career as sales associate where she focused on customer experience during events and enhanced the community’s popular Live the Life Program. In 2019, she was promoted to senior sales associate and managed the administrative components of the realty and moving services program. As sales manager, she will be responsible for overseeing daily sales office operations and implementing strategies to achieve settlement goals in 2020 and beyond. She will also supervise new sales associates and provide tactical support for the continued growth of Ashby Ponds.
$410,000 NEW LISTING
NEW LISTING
You will love everything about this warm and inviting home. Nestled in the historic district of Lovettsville, beautifully landscaped 1/2 acre lot, backing to park land! Privacy fencing for the entire yard The historic 1900 German style farmhouse has been recently renovated and restored, and has many upgrades. including two zone heating & cooling, standing seam metal roof. Gorgeous original wood floors & fresh paint. Many delightful outdoor seating areas, including front porch and a covered and open deck overlooking the backyard and pool.
$425,000 GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD
UNDER CONTRACT
Wow what a house and lot. Colonial with three finished levels. Custom large patio with stone and pavers in fully fenced rear yard. 5 bedroom 3.5 baths. Fabulous kitchen with white cabinets, large island, newer stainless upgraded appliances, custom lights and adjoining sun room/ eat in area with cathedral ceilings and tons of natural light. Large master suite with double sinks, separate shower soaking tub and walk in closet. Crown molding throughout and new flooring on all three levels. Finished lower level with huge rec room, 5th bedroom, full custom bath with marble and slate an awesome finished laundry area. New roof and heat pump. The whole house is tastefully decorated and shows like a dream, both inside and out.
$499,900 15 ACRE FARMETTE This all brick home has it all! This spectacular home offers over 5,000 finished square feet. Incredible 50 X 60 4-bay garage. The home offers 9-foot ceilings on the main level and a large eat-in kitchen with adjoining family room and fireplace. The large master suite offers a private deck with incredible views of the pond and mountains Finished walk out lower level has large windows and offers a full kitchen, full bath and several finished rooms. Stocked pond and gazebo. Run-in shed and a small barn. The possibilities are endless with this meticulously maintained property and it’s many amenities. Property in land use.
$889,000
NOW HIRING
CLIENT RELATIONS MANAGER EPLING LANDSCAPING AND LAWN SERVICES, INC. is Loudoun County’s single source company for a beautiful and trouble-free lawn and landscape. Customers know and trust us as we are family owned and operated and have been serving Loudoun County since 1988.
Major Activities: Creates and maintains positive client interactions and experiences Establishes a consistent flow of profitable business Coordinates and conducts property inspections Creates small enhancement designs Develops specific promotions for target accounts Anticipates customer needs with timely positive solutions Maintains professionalism at all times Communicates effectively, both written and oral Recognizes the importance of details within all areas of work Successful Behaviors: 1. Excellent time management skills. 2. Excellent Interpersonal skills. 3. Excellent organizational skills. 4. Energetic Self-starter. 5. Team Player. 6. Positive attitude. Please submit resume and letter of interest to info@eplinglandscaping.com
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JUNE 18, 2020
PAGE 17
HELP WANTED AT FAMILY PRACTICE
HELP WANTED AT FAMILY PRACTICE
NOW HIRING FLAGGERS Full time, to provide traffic control & safety around construction sites. A valid driver license & clean driving record a must. Starting $13/hr & scheduled raises & bonuses. Company-paid medical & dental premiums. Please fill out an application at trafficplan.com or come to our office on Tuesdays or Thursdays (8am-10am) 7855 Progress Ct. Suite 103, Gainesville, VA
Home Care Agency needs CAREGIVERS in Vienna! Call 703-530-1360 and ask for Anne. homestead.com/507/homecare-jobs to begin!
Patient Service RepresentativeFamily practice in Ashburn is seeking friendly, compassionate individual to join our growing patient care team. Duties include greeting patients, scheduling appointments, collecting co-pays, scanning documents and coordinating patient care needs. If you are detail-oriented, enjoy interacting with clients and are passionate about providing excellent customer service, we strongly encourage you to apply. Bilingual skills a plus. Fax resume to (571)223-1797 or email mabarca@lmgdoctors.com.
HELP WANTED AT FAMILY PRACTICE Large family practice in Loudoun County with 6 locations and 28 providers looking for FT LPN’s or MA’s with a dedication to excellence. New LPN graduates welcome to apply. Pediatric and or family practice experience preferred. EHR experience highly recommended. We offer competitive pay rates, health, dental and vision insurance as well as direct deposit, 401K and many other benefits. Please send your resume to: lgray@lmgdoctors.com or fax to 703-726-0804 attention Lisa
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
Communications Technician (Police Dispatcher)
Police
$45,136-$75,961 DOQ
6/26/2020
Controller
Finance
$79,227-$135,636 DOQ
Open until filled
Utility Plant Operator: Trainee, I, II or Senior
Utilities – Water Supply
$41,353-$89,790 DOQ
Open until filled
Utility Plant Technician: Trainee, Technician or Senior
Utilities
$44,905-$89,790 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.
Closing Date
Office Nurse/Medical AssistantSeeking full-time office nurse/medical assistants to assist Nurse Practitioners and Physicians in a growing family practice with multiple locations. We offer competitive salary and a full benefit package including 401K and paid time off. Great supportive work environment for new nurse grads and those just returning to the medical work force. Fax resume to: (703)858-2880 or email to bwilkes@lmgdoctors.com.
Attention Loudoun County! Home Instead Senior Care is looking for caring and compassionate CAREGivers to become a part of our team and join our mission of enhancing the lives of aging adults throughout the Loudoun county community. Home Instead provides a variety of nonmedical services that allow seniors to remain in their home and meet the challenges of aging with dignity, care and compassion.
Why should you join Home Instead Senior Care? • Very rewarding - meet wonderful people, build fulfilling relationships, and make a difference in the lives of our clients. • Paid training in healthcare-industrybest practices. • Flexible scheduling - perfect for retirees, stay-at-home moms, or students. • Great supplemental income Call us today at 703.530.1360 or visit homeinstead.com/507/home-carejobs to begin!
See the full job listings at NowHiringLoudoun.com
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PAGE 18
JUNE 18, 2020
Obituaries Dr. Joseph P. Finizio Dr. Joseph P. Finizio, retired radiologist, died peacefully on Sunday, June 14th in Bethesda, MD. He was 76 years old. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Sharon Lapietra Finizio, his son Joseph, daughter and son in-law Heather and John Hillmann. He was the proud “Pappa” of Isabela Rose Hillmann and Charlize Kane Hillmann. He was also survived by his brothers and sister in-laws Andrew and Claire Finizio, Tobin and Janice Finizio and many loving cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Andrew Finizio and Theresa Finizio-Cerwinski and his sister Theresa Golon. ‘Dr. Joe’ was beloved and respected by his family, friends, and colleagues for a life defined by deep compassion, integrity, service to others and dedication. Joseph received his medical degree from Georgetown University in 1971, followed by an internship at John Hopkins, and then a residency at Washington Hospital Center, in Washington DC. He was a major with the US Army from 1975-1977. Following his service in the Army, he served as Director of Radiology at Southern Maryland Hospital (1977) and at Loudoun Memorial Hospital (1986). In 1977, Joseph founded Radiology Imaging Associates (RIA), an influential and innovative radiology practice that today continues to serve patients in the communities of southern Maryland and northern Virginia as they did under his direction for 40 years. Although the practice grew to several hundred employees, it never
lost its personal touch and because Joseph viewed the employees as RIA as an extension of his family, many of whom worked for him for decades. Over his career, he personally cared for countless patients and while medical colleagues respected his keen eye and knowledge, it was his warmth and compassion that those patients and their families remember. Not your typical radiologist, Joseph was hard to keep in the reading room. He would much rather be out cracking jokes and chatting with patients in the lobby. He never met a stranger anywhere, but if he did, they weren’t a stranger for long. Truly a charismatic character, his quick wit and brilliant smile were sure to create a lasting impression. Joe and his Sharon made family the center of their lives and loved nothing more that hosting loud family dinners, spending time together on Tilghman Island, planning for the next family vacation or attending any and all activities to cheer for their beloved granddaughters. He also enjoyed many hobbies in his 76 years. He got his first camera while in the Army, and over the next 45 years, he became an avid photographer. His favorite subjects were his family and he would spend hours showing off their pictures with deep pride to anyone he met. Always active, he enjoyed sailing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and gardening. Following a small private service for immediate family, Jospeh will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. A celebration of his life is being planned for the future. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCan.org)
Felicia R. Fleming
of Woodbridge, VA , formerly of Purcellville, VA Departed this life on Tuesday, June 09, 2020 at her residence. Felicia is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Tony Deon Fleming, three daughters, Lela, Nubia and Nazeta; father, Randell Smith (Joyce); brothers, Randell, Jr. (Vanessa), Anthony (Pam), and Troy; aunt, Rosanna Brooks, sisters In law, Kiana and Michelle; mother in law, Patricia Kenner, father in law, Joe Fleming, step sisters, Marcia and Faith; and a host of nieces, nephews,other family members
and friends. Private graveside funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2020 at 2:30 p.m. at the Mt. Olive Baptist Church Cemetery, 37762 Cooksville Road, Lincoln, VA 20160. Arrangements By: Lyles Funeral Service, Serving Northern Virginia, Eric S. Lyles, Director. 1-800-3881913
Thomas G. Murray Thomas G. Murray, 76, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2020 from congestive heart failure. Tom was born January 5, 1944 to James and May Murray in The Bronx, New York. The Murrays hail from County Galway, Ireland where Tom’s father was a celebrated war hero for his role in the 1916 Easter Uprising which led to the liberation of Ireland. Tom spent 72 years of his life living in The Bronx, Yonkers and Manhattan, NY. He retired to Leesburg, VA four years ago. Tom’s career as a jeweler in the Diamond District of Manhattan spanned more than 50 years and he was an expert in diamonds,
fine gemstones and estate jewelry Tom is survived by his daughter Christina Croll (Michael) of Leesburg, VA and his son Joseph Murray (Emilija) of Santa Rosa, CA. He is survived by grandsons James and William Croll and sister Mary Murray Carrier of Newburyport, MA. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who loved him dearly for his quick wit and generous spirit. Tom is preceded in death by his parents and siblings James J. Murray, John F. Murray, Patrick T. Murray and Anne T. (Murray) Crall. Due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, Tom’s family is hosting a private remembrance service online. Funeral and interment will take place in Killimor, Ireland at a later date.
Nancy Ann Reitz Nancy Ann Reitz, 83, passed from this life on June 2, 2020 in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania. Nancy was born on July 5, 1936 in York, the only child of Daniel Stump Hursh and Grace Strickler Hursh. She enjoyed a loving childhood in Stonybrook where her spirit was captured at an early age in the column, “Musings of a Traveling Man” by Old Joe. “Nancy has associated with grownups who expect her to be natural. She seldom disappoints. Her retorts are usually humorous, and everybody enjoys swapping wise cracks with her. The best part being she can take it as well as give it.” Nancy kept this spirit throughout her life. She graduated from nursing school as a registered nurse and practiced at the hospital where she and her children were born, York Hospital. In 1959 she married George F. Reitz; they would have celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary on June 27. They became parents in 1960 with their daughter, Tammy, and again in 1962 with the birth of their son, Mark. In the early 1960s George and Nancy moved south to Virginia due to George’s employment. They lived in Leesburg, Virginia until 2014 at which time they both returned to their birth state of Pennsylvania. Nancy enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, word search games, cards, puzzles, the 70’s ceramics craze, knitting, needlework, quilting, sewing, crocheting (a bag of yarn always by her side until her last breath), and
many other crafts. Just be warned don’t use her snub-nosed medical scissors! Nancy also enjoyed watching many sports. She was an avid fan of the local men’s softball team, the Brandon Brewers. She loved golf, tennis, football (her beloved Washington Redskins), and most of all, baseball where the Washington Nationals (Nats) were her team of choice. If there was a game/match of almost any kind being aired, that was her viewing preference. Nancy lived valiantly with Multiple Sclerosis for several decades. In 2014 her medical needs required a move to the bucolic Masonic Village in Elizabethtown where she was given loving care by staff who often went out of their way to provide her with the extra touches that make a difference. Nancy now rests in Fairview Cemetery, Wrightsville, PA where she joined her parents, great uncles and aunts, grandparents and many other relatives. Nancy’s humorous spirit, beautiful smile, and independent nature remained with her until her last day. She is survived by her loving family including husband George F. Reitz (Elizabethtown, PA), daughter Tammy Reitz Greene (Stilson) of Hamilton, VA, son Mark F. Reitz (Judy) of New Bern, NC, grandchildren Brandy R. Gerwig (Nathan) of Red Lion, PA, Morgan G. McLellan (Sean) of Hamilton, VA, Michael Reitz (Sabrina) of Shepherdstown, WV, Paige Reitz of Leesburg, VA, Cortni Reitz of Leesburg, VA, and Glen Reitz of Tuscon, AZ, and great-grandchildren Sarina Gerwig, Trey McDowell, and Addilynn Reitz.
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JUNE 18, 2020
PAGE 19
Obituaries Elaine Walker
Of all the descriptions of former Lovettsville Mayor Elaine Walker that flowed after her June 1 death at Inova Loudoun Hospital, none were more frequently cited than “visionary.” It was a vision that saw clearly where and how her native town could progress—a position from which she never deviated. To achieve it, she brought a steely resolve and a clear mind. Throughout her more than 32 years of dedicated public service—10 as a council member and 22 as Lovettsville’s mayor— the town achieved a remarkable record of achievement. From its position as Loudoun’s northernmost town, Lovettsville grew from a sleepy small rural town into the bustling and attractive hub of Northern Loudoun, strategically located on the busy north-south Rt. 287 arterial. Admired and respected by admirers and opponents alike, as well as town staff, Walker retired in 2012, leaving with numerous awards and accolades, county wide. Former Virginia General Assembly member Joe T. May, who served for 20 years in the House of Delegates, worked with Walk-
‘A Mayor for the Ages’ er for four years in the ‘90s on the town’s By working with the developer of Town efforts to build a comprehensive sewer Center, Elm Street Development, Markel system. Finding the funding to accomplish said Walker got land dedicated for public the project to the required standards for use—citing the town’s ample green public nitrogen discharge was “very difficult,” spaces. She began the push for the existing May said. But their work together forged a streetscape improvements, and promoted great friendship. greater commercial development in the town. “I admired her deeply, she was tenacious and direct.” Nor was she afraid to engage Walker was a tireless promoter of the with anyone in pursuit of the the bettertown’s German heritage, through the Oktoment of her town, he said, likening her to berfest and Mayfest celebrations that have “steel with a light velvet coating.” become major attractions to the town. Former Loudoun Supervisor Charles Town Treasurer Lance Gladstone called L. “Charlie” Waddell and, later, Virginia Walker “the strongest and most tireless adDeputy Secretary of Transportation, called vocate for Lovettsville I’ve ever known.” He Walker “a mayor for the ages.” He’d known also noted “she could be as sweet as cotton and worked with her for 50 years. She was candy or as tough as nails when standing a strong member of the Virginia Municiup for the town.” pal League, he said: “She was a hands-on Former Purcellville Mayor Bob Lazaro mayor.” admired Walker for “her big ideas,” saying Her staff remembered her with affection she knew what she wanted for the town and admiration. Former Lovettsville Town and then set about working to make it Manager, now Deputy Town Manager for happen. “She was a very effective leader.” the Town of Leesburg, Keith Markel listed Her successor as mayor, Robert “Bobby” numerous accomplishments for the town Zoldos II, said “She had a vision that was during her time in office. much larger than the town—she had what But what set her apart, Markel said, was all great leaders have.” her willingness to work toward a longZoldos recalled the difficulties of the term future for Lovettsville. “She was a town’s sewage situation in the ‘90s. “Back visionary for that little town—she created modern Lovettsville.” then, they only had a sewage lagoon, into
Kathleen Marie Raymond Kathleen Marie Raymond, 77, of Leesburg, Virginia passed away on May 30, 2020 at Heritage Hall Nursing and Rehab. She was born July 21, 1942 to Orma Ilene (Grealy) Call and the late Sylvester John Dwelle in Sandusky, Ohio. Kathy was also predeceased by her loving husband George Edward Raymond and her son David Keith Sutton. She is survived by her mother, daughter Christina Sutton DeWaard and her husband Larry, and grandchildren Elizabeth and Matthew Stevens. Kathy had a wicked sense of humor, and often had her nurses in stitches with her zingers that seemed to come from nowhere. She served as President of the Heritage Hall Residents
LoudounNow To place an obituary, contact Susan Styer at 703-770-9723 or email: sstyer@loudounnow.com
Council for several years and participated in most activities there. The annual spelling bee was a favorite event of hers, and she proudly represented Heritage Hall at several regional spelling bees. She was an avid reader and particularly enjoyed keeping up with current events and dreaming about the travel destinations she wanted to visit someday. Kathy developed a deeper faith in God in her later years - she eagerly looked forward to religious services at Heritage Hall and visits from members of both St. James’ Episcopal Church and St. John the Apostle Catholic Church. She also led a bible study group for residents. We wish to express our gratitude to the staff, volunteers, and residents at Heritage Hall for their many years of caring, compassion, and friendship. Burial will be in Sandusky, Ohio at a later date.
Lives are like rivers: Eventually they go where they must, not where we want them to.
which they dumped all the town effluent.” According to Zoldos, the town was sued by a developer, who claimed the lack of proper sewage disposal was holding up his development. The town was ordered by the court to upgrade its sewer facility to create a completely new sewer system,” he recalled. “She was a most incredible leader—who used the demand for construction to make the development pay for the infrastructure,” he said, calling Walker “an amazing lady.” Walker’s daughter Linda, and her sisters Debbie and Carol, said “we are overwhelmed by realizing how lucky and grateful we are for both our parents.” Their father, Cliff Walker, a former Marine who enlisted three days after Pearl Harbor, died three years ago after an almost 60-year-marriage. “It’s incredibly uplifting to see the respect and love we have for our parents—we’re so grateful to have been in their orbit—wonderful caring people,” Linda said. “They were inseparable, always together.” Walker’s daughters hope to hold a future commemoration of her life at the Walker Pavilion on the Town Green.
Michael Damon Jones
Network Engineer, Marine Veteran Mike Jones, 63, of Purcellville, Virginia (formerly of Union/ Vauxhall, New Jersey) passed away peacefully at home with his wife and family at his side on June 10, 2020. Michael was born June 17, 1956 in Newark, NJ to Charles A. Jones, Sr. and Camille A Bruington-Jones (pre-deceased him). He was baptized Catholic at Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament Church in East Orange, New Jersey. Michael graduated Union High School in 1974. After high school Michael enlisted in the Marines serving multiple overseas tours and was stationed in Quantico, Va. While in the Marines Michael trained in Network Engineering which also became his post-military career. Michael married Victoria Flakes in 1981. He and his wife settled in Northern Virginia with their two sons, Alfred and Joseph. In addition to working at Fannie Mae, Michael completed
his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business, an achievement he was very proud to have accomplished. Michael retired from Fannie Mae in 2007 after 23 years of service. Michael is survived by his wife, Victoria Flakes-Jones, two sons, Alfred and Joseph, his grandson that Michael was so proud of, Alfred Jr; one Brother, Anthony P. Jones two sisters; Vanessa L. Jones and Sharon D. Jones-Dietrich , (pre-deceased by his brother Charles A Jones Jr); one brother-inlaw Victor Scott, two sisters-in-law, Vanessa Flakes and Dorine Jones and a host of much-loved nephews, nieces, cousins and friends. Private funeral services will be held at Lyles Funeral Chapel, Purcellville, Virginia. Interment services will be privately held at the Quantico National Cemetery, Triangle, VA. Arrangements by :LYLES FUNERAL SERVICE, Serving N. Virginia. Eric S. Lyles, Director. Lic. VA/ MD/DC. 800-388-1913.
PAGE 20
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JUNE 18, 2020
Our Towns
TOWN notes HAMILTON Town Selling GMC Pickup Truck The Town of Hamilton is selling a 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 4x4 pickup truck. The truck has a regular cab, includes a snowplow and has 81,371 miles. The town is taking sealed offers until 4 p.m. July 9. The town staff will open those offers July 10. To make an offer, mail it to P.O. Box 130, Hamilton VA 20159 or drop it off at the town office at 53 E. Colonial Hwy. Payment is to be made by money order or via a certified/cashier’s check. To request an inspection of the truck, call 540-338-2811 or email info@hamiltonva.gov.
HILLSBORO Patrick Szabo/Loudoun Now
Lovettsville Mayor Nate Fontaine, Town Council members and local artist Jill Evans-Kavaldjian unveiled the town’s LOVE sign on the Town Square Friday, June 12.
Lovettsville LOVE Sign Unveiled BY PATRICK SZABO pszabo@loudounnow.com
A new LOVE sign has been installed in the town named for “love”—on Loving Day, no less. Lovettsville leaders and close to 50 town residents crowded into the northeast
corner of the Town Square last Friday to help artist Jill Evans-Kavaldjian unveil the $7,500, 12-by-6-foot LOVE sign she designed and Purcellville’s Quail Run Signs fabricated. It’s the county’s fourth such sign, with one already installed in Purcellville at the W&OD trailhead; and two in Leesburg, one along the W&OD Trail and another outside Catoctin Elementary School. There
are more than 200 LOVE signs across the commonwealth. During the ceremony, Councilman Mike Dunlap and Visit Loudoun President and CEO Beth Erickson echoed a common sentiment. “It’s all about love,” Erickson LOVE SIGN continues on page 22
Purcellville Adopts $5M First Quarter Budget BY PATRICK SZABO
pszabo@loudounnow.com
Less than three weeks before the start of the next fiscal year, the Town of Purcellville has adopted a budget that accounts solely for the next three months. The Town Council last Tuesday voted unanimously to adopt a $4.8 million Fiscal Year 2021 First Quarter Operating Budget that covers town finances between July 1 and Sept. 30. That budget also includes a nearly $300,000 Capital Improvement Program for the first quarter of FY21. The adoption of such a short-term budget is a response to a drop in expected revenues
caused by the coronavirus crisis and subsequent business closures. The council will need to discuss and adopt a separate budget that accounts for the second through fourth quarters of Fiscal Year 2021 before Oct. 1. While Virginia law requires municipalities to adopt budgets that cover expenditures and revenues for the entire fiscal year, Town Attorney Sally Hankins said she felt Purcellville’s first quarter budget “meets all of the intents of the statute, which is to plan ahead.” “We will be doing that as soon as this budget is adopted,” she said. Hankins added that adopting a first
quarter budget could be viewed as adopting a new budget late, which she said, many localities have done and have suffered no consequences. The council Tuesday night also voted to approve a budget appropriation that allows the town to transfer Capital Improvement Program funding that went unused in FY20 to FY21—$7.3 million in General Fund projects, $1.7 million in Water Fund projects, $1 million in Sewer Fund projects and $44,000 in Parks and Recreation Fund projects. In the first quarter of the new fiscal PURCELLVILLE BUDGET continues on page 22
Town to Dedicate New Well on July 20 The Town of Hillsboro will dedicate its new well on Monday, July 20. Town leaders that day will gather for a ceremony at the new well, which is located adjacent to a spring-fed pond south of Rt. 9. The new well generates 25 gallons of water per minute. Town leaders hope the Virginia Department of Health will remove the town from its decades-long boil-water notice by the time of the dedication. The well dedication will mark the completion of a more than year-long, $3.2 million water project in which Shirley Contracting brought the new well into the town’s water system and took the town’s spring offline—a spring atop Short Hill Mountain that has been providing the town with about 95 gallons of water daily for at least the last 250 years.
LOVETTSVILLE Council Approves Water, Sewer Agreement for County Park The Lovettsville Town Council last week unanimously approved a water and sewer agreement with the county to provide service to the Lovettsville Community Park. The county-owned 91-acre park, TOWN NOTES continues on page 21
JUNE 18, 2020
TOWN Notes continued from page 20
which is located directly across Broad Way from the Lovettsville Community Center, will include seven athletic fields, restrooms, concessions, an equestrian area, an amphitheater, an off-leash dog area and a walking trail once constructed. The county will pay Lovettsville’s out-of-town water and sewer rates for service at the baseball field restrooms and concession area, the amphitheater restrooms and dog park, and the equestrian center restrooms and washing station. Out-of-town water rates are set at $13.44 per 1,000 gallons of use. Out-of-town sewer rates are set at $21.35 per 1,000 gallons. The county will also pay the town water and sewer connection fees for the hookups—$2,000 each. The county also will be responsible for installing all water and sewer lines according to town standards and will be required to pay the town $6,000 per year for maintenance costs related to flushing and long-term replacement. The town has been working with the county for more than a year to move the park to construction. The county has already selected a contractor to install the utility lines and will issue the notice to proceed this month.
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will begin his second two-year term on July 1; and newly elected Town Council members Chris Bernard, Kevin Daly, Philip Miller and Bud Jacobs, all four of which are incumbent. The ceremony was done virtually over GoToMeeting—making it the second Loudoun town to host a virtual oath of office ceremony. Round Hill held the first on June 3.
Town Administrator to Become Town Manager on July 1 The Middleburg Town Council last Thursday night updated the Town Code to reflect amendments the Virginia General Assembly approved for the Town Charter earlier this year, allowing the town to change the town administrator to town manager. In January, Del. Wendy Gooditis (D-10) and Sen. Jill Vogel (R-27) introduced bills to make those Town Charter changes beginning July 1. At that point, the mayor’s power will be transferred to the new town manager position, which will be held by current Town Administrator Danny Davis, who will have to direct other town staffers. That change reflects the town’s current operations and does not change the ways in which the mayor or town administrator have worked in recent decades.
The Town Code amendments also require the town treasurer, clerk and police chief to report directly to the town manager, rather than the Town Council. Gov. Ralph Northam signed Gooditis’ House bill into law on March 4, while Vogel’s identical Senate bill was signed into law April 8.
Town Eyes Annexation of 6 Residential Properties The Town Council last week discussed an idea to bring six residential properties into the town limits. Three landowners and the Hill School, which owns the other three properties, requested the town bring them into the corporate limits to “simplify relations between local government and the owners,” according to a May 9 note to the town. The Hill School has most of its buildings in the town limits, although the majority of its land outside the town limits. Deputy Town Administrator Will Moore briefed the council last Thursday on three issues the town will need to work through while deliberating on the boundary line adjustment. One of those centers on the zoning of the properties. If they’re brought into the corporate limits, they would automatically be zoned A-C District, which would create a number of nonconformities. To fix
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those issues, the Town Council would need to approve a zoning amendment. Next, the town will need to work out how much the expansion would cost and who would pay for it. Aside from attorney’s fees, Moore said all costs would likely not exceed $15,000. Lastly, the town staff will need to meet with the property owners to talk about whether the town can provide them with sewer service. Moore said an analysis on that would cost $4,000 to $8,000.
Town Reports $20K Reimbursed, 4K Vouchers Used in Relief Program The Town of Middleburg’s business and resident relief programs have seen the town reimburse more than $20,000 to businesses and has seen more than 4,000 meals vouchers redeemed at in-town restaurants, according to a report from Town Administrator Danny Davis. The business support program, which the Town Council approved April 9 and is seeing the town reimburse businesses for half the amount of their mark-down prices during sales, now has 22 businesses signed up. As of June 5, the town had reimbursed TOWN NOTES continues on page 22
Town to Send Utility Bills Electronically to Customers The Town Council last Thursday night voted to authorize the town staff to contract with Invoice Cloud to digitize the town’s utility billing system. Customers will soon be able to make water and sewer payments online or via text message. According to a staff report, the system provides customers ease of use, up to three reminders before the due date, account linking, an auto-pay feature and paperless billing. The town will be required to pay $100 for monthly access to the billing portal and $50 to access an optional online bank direct service. The town will absorb costs associated with each payment transaction. Town Treasurer Lance Gladstone said it would cost about $3 for each transaction, which would mean the town would spend about $1,140 each month for an anticipated 350 payments.
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MIDDLEBURG Circuit Court Clerk Swears in Mayor, 4 Council Members Clerk of the Circuit Court Gary Clemens last Thursday swore in newly elected Middleburg Mayor Bridge Littleton, who
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AT&T Proposes Short Hill Monopole BY RENSS GREENE rgreene@loudounnow.com
AT&T has returned with new plans for its property on top of Short Hill Mountain overlooking Lovettsville, this time a 125-foot monopole that the company says will improve cell service in northwestern Loudoun. The monopole proposal was first discussed publicly in 2018, including at a well-attended open house at the Lovettsville Game Protective Association in spring 2018. At that time, the tower was proposed as 155-feet high. After feedback at that meeting, said AT&T attorney Greg Rapisarda of Sault Ewing Arnstein & Lehr LLP, project leaders went back to AT&T engineers to look for ways to reduce the tower’s height. He said moving the tower further down the mountain would involve damaging the mountain’s steep slopes for the sitework and access road. Since that 2018 open house, however, the tower’s proposed height has been reduced as the company prepares to make a formal application to the county government for permits. With talk in the community about making the tower less obvious, Rapisarda said the tower will be painted the same matte gray employed in national parks, and that there is not expected to be a light atop the tower. The tower is planned to have space for three other wireless carriers, and would also be part of the company’s FirstNet network, a wireless broadband network dedicated to first responders, AT&T representatives said. “The coronavirus and all of this transition into more online learning and working from home, it highlights the gap that’s there and accentuates the need for coverage out there,” said AT&T representative David D’Onofrio. “I think as long as we are working with the community, I think folks have come to realize that the positives outweigh the negatives. People living near Short Hill are particularly wary of work on AT&T’s site on top of the mountain after hearing of a proposal in 2016 to build a 35-foot-high, 160,000-square-foot aboveground facility on top of its already-existing underground facility on that site. That application was withdrawn under intense pressure from the community. n
TOWN Notes continued from page 21
$20,154 to those businesses. All participating businesses are encouraged to use the hashtag #ShopMBurg. The Middleburg Business and Professional Association is also supporting the program. The meals voucher program, which the Town Council approved March 26, saw the town distribute 13 $20 meal vouchers to all in-town utility customers—a total of 5,577 vouchers that cost the town nearly $112,000. Since then, 4,154 have been redeemed. Learn more about the voucher program at middleburgva.gov/331/middleburg-take-out.
PURCELLVILLE Purcellville to Provide Outdoor Community COVID-19 Testing The Town of Purcellville will provide COVID-19 testing to the community from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, June 19 outside the former Rite Aid store, located at the cor-
Love sign continued from page 20 said. Dunlap said the LOVE sign was spearheaded by his wife, Tiffany, who ensured the project remained on track over the past two years. In that time, the Virginia Tourism Corporation, Visit Loudoun and Loudoun Economic Development, along with numerous volunteers, worked together to bring the sign to fruition and put Lovettsville on the map, literally. It will be featured on the Virginia is for Lovers webpage. “This sign is designed for you,” Evans-Kavaldjian told residents in attendance. Mayor Nate Fontaine said that, although the coronavirus crisis delayed the town’s plans to install the sign in early April, the timing of the event worked out perfectly, since it was done the first day Northern Virginia entered the second phase of reopenings and because it was Loving Day. That day honors the date the United States Supreme Court in 1967 officially legalized interracial marriage—a decision sparked by the case of Richard and Mildred Loving, an interracial couple from Virginia who were arrested after returning home from their wedding in 1958. The Town Council last week recognized the day with a proclamation crafted by two area students—Ella Siebentritt-Clark and Madeleine Metzler. Before the sign unveiling, Fontaine pre-
ner of East Main Street and Ken Culbert Jr. Road. The testing will be handled primarily by Aperiomics—a Sterling-based biotechnology company. That will cost the town $7,500 in upfront costs, which will be pulled from the $891,932 in CARES Act funding the county is sending the town. The council Tuesday night voted to approve a spending plan for that money, $8,000 of which will go toward COVID-19 testing. Aperiomics will administer RT-PCR tests, which will show cases of an active COVID-19 infection, and the IgM/IgG Antibody test, which will reveal COVID-19 antibodies. According to the town, both tests can be performed quickly, with results returned within 12 to 72 hours. Those wishing to be tested will be charged $150 for both forms of testing. They will receive a superbill that can be submitted for insurance reimbursement. Individuals with Medicare will be fully covered, Mayor Kwasi Fraser said. Medical professionals, municipal leaders and business owners interested in conducting their own COVID-19 testing with Aperiomics should contact the company by email at orders@aperiomics.com or phone sented Ella and Madeline with a copy of the Town Council proclamation. “I hope that we can all band together as a community to continue to make a difference,” Madeline said. Evans-Kavaldjian, the planning director for the Loudoun Arts Council and a founding member of the Gateway Gallery in Round Hill and the Catoctin Holiday Art Tour, said the sign reflects the town’s family-oriented community and will be a backdrop for those families to take a photos. The sign, which was made with sheet aluminum, even features a spinning bird atop the “v” for kids to play with. “I wanted to have something that was interactive,” Evans-Kavaldjian said. In all, it took Quail Run two weeks to fabricate the sign and a few weeks for Evans-Kavaldjian to design it. But her idea for the sign was one that she crafted more than 15 years ago during a visit with then-Vice Mayor Jim McIntyre and his family. She said she formulated that idea based on a previous sign at the entrance to Lovettsville that read “the town that begins with love.” Evans-Kavaldjian’s work has ranged anywhere from painting murals to helping to build a float that won the Town of Leesburg’s Halloween parade a few years ago. She displays her artwork in her home studio in Morrisonville—Art at Garden Corner. Learn more about her work at artatgardencorner.net. Read more about the Virginia is for Lovers campaign at virginia.org/ love. n
JUNE 18, 2020
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Antennas Expected to be Back on Water Tower by September Modifications to the town’s 200,000-gallon Maple Avenue water tower were expected to wrap up this week, making way for cellular antennas to be re-installed by the end of September. According to a June 9 report from Capital Projects & Engineering Manager Dale Lehnig, the Pittsburg Tank & Tower Group was expected to complete modification work this Wednesday. Between July 20 and Sept. 31, the four cellular carriers—AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon—will re-install their antennas on the tower, taking two to three weeks each to do so. Once that happens, residents should experience better cellular service in town, especially those living on the south side of town. Around July 6, the town is also expected to award a contract for a cellular tower build on the Basham Simms Wastewater Facility—a tower that will provide residents living in and around the Hirst Farm neighborhood with improved coverage.
Purcellville budget continued from page 20 year, the town will pull about $200,000 to use on General Fund projects, $75,000 for Parks and Recreation Fund projects and $25,000 for Water Fund projects. It will perform no Sewer Fund projects in that first quarter. That appropriation also allows the town to allocate about $567,000 that went unused in FY20 for seven governmental and utility projects in FY21. Mekarski presented his original $20.2 million proposed FY21 operating budget on March 18. Three weeks later, once the coronavirus crisis had taken hold of the nation and forced state-mandated business closures, Mekarski presented an amended proposed operating budget that was down by about $1.2 million—to $19 million—to account for a $480,000 expected drop in meals tax revenue, a $300,000 expected drop in real estate tax revenue, a $75,000 expected drop in the special tax district revenue and the elimination of a $305,000 transfer from the General Fund to the Sewer Fund. Town leaders expect to account for the $160,000 drop in sewer usage fee revenue and the $116,000 drop in water usage fee revenue in the new fiscal year through the use of reserve funds. n
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DESIGN & CONSULTATION • HARDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION • LANDSCAPE PLANTINGS QUALITY STONE WORK • WATER FEATURES • OUTDOOR LIGHTING • PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
Patrick Szabo/Loudoun Now
The community garden at Lovettsville’s Quarter Branch Park now consists of nine plots.
Tomatoes, Peppers are Choice Crops; Regular Weeding Recommended BY PATRICK SZABO pszabo@loudounnow.com
Normally viewed as a springtime practice, gardening in June could be daunting to many, but there’s still time to get going. Julie Harner, the vice chairwoman of the Lovettsville Cooperative Market— which operates the 0.12-acre community garden at Quarter Branch Park—said tomatoes and peppers are perhaps the easiest to grow at this point in the season, since the weather has been so warm lately. “They love the hot, the hotter the better,” she said, noting that squash also
grows well in the heat. “This is perfect timing for them.” Harner, who has a 7-acre garden at her home, said that nearly all nine of Lovettsville’s community gardeners are growing at least one tomato and pepper plant and that some are even growing corn. As for gardening and lawn care advice, Harner’s number-one tip was to pull weeds. She said with the region’s rocky, clay soil, weeds grow fast and suck up vital nutrients that plants need to survive. “The weeds are the killer,” she said. Harner recommended people weed for 15 minutes every three to four days, rather than for a full day every month. n
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Master Gardeners Offer Backyard Tips For those looking to build a healthy, green backyard landscape without the use of pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers that threaten waterways and wildlife when overused, the Loudoun County Extension Office’s Master Gardeners have a tool that can help. Master Gardeners educate residents on environmentally sound landscape management practices, with the conservation and preservation of our natural resources, like soil and water, as their ultimate goal. The My Backyard program is a self-directed program designed to guide residents and land managers with 10 presiding principles on healthy soil, reducing stormwater runoff, wa-
tering wisely, lawns, trees, shrubs, perennial flowers, and more. Participants will receive education to implement an environmental landscape management plan for their own yards that can save time and money. The program also offers a Watershed Partner yardstick evaluation scorecard to assess their progress. Elements in the program cover how to maintain healthy soils, recycle yard waste, wisely use fertilizers, mulching, reducing stormwater runoff, removing invasive plants and managing pests. Learn more at loudouncountymastergardeners.org/programs/my-backyard/yard-actions. n
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A monarch butterfly stops for a snack on its journey.
Loudoun Wildlife Butterfly Count Returns Aug. 1 The Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy’s annual butterfly count will return this year on Aug. 1. Loudoun Wildlife has coordinated the Annual Loudoun Butterfly count since 1997. The count takes place in early August, and peak butterfly season data is reported to the North American Butterfly Association. The annual count pairs beginners with experts and sends teams to different parts of the county for half a day or all day. Butterflies need many kinds of plants to develop and survive. Many species will visit areas that are weedy and wild, and have lots of native plants. Information on the numbers and locations of butterflies provides great insight into habitat health and diversity—a new lawn or an area that has been sprayed with pesticides will see few or no species. Loudoun Wildlife’s Field Guide to the
Butterflies of Loudoun County is helpful and available online at loudounwildlife. org/Shop. Butterfly lovers can also help the Monarch butterfly by creating a Monarch Waystation, which provides milkweeds for larvae, nectar plants for the adults, and sufficient vegetation to provide shelter for larvae, pupae and adults. Loudoun Wildlife’s Monarch Waystation Seed Kit is meant to help you create a habitat suitable for monarchs in your own garden. Sign up to participate in the annual count and find more information, including on the Monarch Waystation Seed Kit, at LoudounWildlife.org/citizen-science/ butterfly-count. Butterfly lovers can also get their monarch waystation certified and included in the International Monarch Waystation Registry at MonarchWatch.org/ws. n
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Plants that Bite Back: Steer Clear of These Obnoxious Plants It’s not just the bears and bees that can leave a mark when you’re on a walk. Plants in Northern Virginia are mostly pretty tame, but there are some to steer clear of—like poison ivy, poison sumac, poison oak, and stinging nettle. Here’s how to spot them:
Robert H. Mohlenbrock/USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
Poison Ivy
Poison Ivy and Poison Oak “Leaves of three, leave it be!” Poison ivy is the most famous of Loudoun’s obnoxious plants, with a chemical in its sap called urushiol that causes rashes and itching. It also may be getting more common with global warming—a 2006 study associated high carbon dioxide concentrations with larger, stronger plants with more concentrated irritants in the sap. But, fortunately, both poison ivy and poison oak are easy to spot with the simple mnemonic above and a little practice. Both typically have clusters of three leaves. Poison ivy leaves are pointed at the tip and have smooth, rather than serrated, edges. They tend to be waxy on top and fuzzy on the bottom. It can grow as a vine, traveling along the ground and climbing fences and other plants, or as a standalone shrub. Poison oak, meanwhile, is most often seen as a shrub—but can also act like a vine. It’s not an oak tree, but the leaves have a wavy, lobed appearance similar to oak leaves that gives the plant its name. They have a textured, hairy surface. The plant contains the same irritant, urushiol, as poison ivy.
spread even if you don’t touch them with your bare skin when you go by.
Poison Sumac The “leaves of three” rule won’t help you avoid poison sumac—but fortunately, it also has a distinctive appearance. Poison sumac grows as a tall shrub or a small tree, and its stalks are often red. Its leaf stems grow odd numbers of leaves, with one leaf at the end of the stem and the rest in pairs, and which are fairly sparse compared to many plants. The leaves have smooth edges. The urushiol oil in poison sumac, poison ivy and poison oak can stay on clothes or skin for a long time, making it easy to
Stinging Nettle Stinging nettle uses a different method to warn you away—its fuzzy leaves are actually covered in trichomes, which are tiny, needle-like hairs that can inject irritating chemicals into the skin. That can cause a stinging or burning sensation and rash. Ted Bodner/USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
Poison Sumac
PLANTS THAT BITE continues on page 27
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Middleburg Garden Club Eyes 1M Daffodils BY PATRICK SZABO
pszabo@loudounnow.com
One initiative in Loudoun recently set out to plant an outrageous number of flowers, but not all at once, or even within a small timeframe. Late last year, the Middleburg Garden Club announced its goal to plant one million daffodils by 2030—by planting them at an exponential rate each year. Club Vice President Darcy Justen said the plan was to start with 1,500 in 2019, double that to 3,000 this year and then double that again to 6,000 in 2021, and so on and so forth. To kick that process off, club members in November handed out 2,000 daffodil bulbs to area residents, who then planted the flowers at home or elsewhere around town. The club at that time also distributed another 2,000 bulbs to area businesses, schools and churches for planting. The project will have a lasting impact, since they come back each spring and can live for up to four decades, Justen said. n
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Plants that bite continued from page 25 It grows as single stalks that do not branch, with serrated, fuzzy leaves growing in opposite pairs, and can grow up to several feet tall. The stalks are also often fuzzy.
How to Treat It According to the American Academy of Dermatology, if the rash from poison ivy, poison oak or poison sumac is not serious, you can treat it at home. Dermatologists recommend you immediately clean the skin with lukewarm, soapy water, wash your clothing and anything else that may have urushiol oil on the surface, do not scratch, and leave blisters alone. To relieve itching they recommend short, lukewarm baths in a colloidal oatmeal solution, or in a bath with one cup of baking soda added. They also recommend calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream, cool compresses, and possibly antihistamine pills—although applying antihistamine directly to the skin can worsen the rash and itch. In rare cases, people may have a more serious reaction, indicated by symptoms like difficulty breathing or swallowing;
ALWAYS ONLINE LAWNAT & LOUDOUNNOW.COM GARDEN a rash around eyes, mouth or genitals; swelling on the face; rashes on most of the body; or a fever. Those mean you should get immediate medical attention. And if you find any of those plants in your yard, don’t burn them—urushiol on the skin is usually not a serious problem, but urushiol in the lungs can be life-threatening. Treating stinging nettle can take a little more patience. Rather than immediately washing the rash, you should try not to touch it for about 10 minutes after getting stung, because the chemicals are easier to remove if they’re allowed to dry. Touching or rubbing could push them further in and make things worse. After that, wash the skin with soap and warm water, avoiding hot temperatures and scratching. Cool compresses, aloe vera, or a paste of baking soda and water can also help. In rare cases, people may have more serious reactions to stinging nettle, indicated by symptoms like tightness in the chest or throat, wheezing or difficulty breathing, swelling in the mouth, stomach cramps, vomiting or diarrhea, which means you should get immediate medical attention. n
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LoCo Living
THINGS to do
Artist Completes Hamilton Town Office Mural BY PATRICK SZABO
pszabo@loudounnow.com
Local artist Penny Hauffe on June 3 finished work on the Hamilton town office mural—a large, colorful depiction of the town’s scenic vistas. The 14-by-8-foot mural cost $3,800, paid $1,000 by the town and the rest through donations, and took Hauffe 55 hours to complete throughout the course of three weeks. Hauffe said she used high-quality, Sherwin Williams exterior latex paint, which is water based and the same type of paint someone would use to paint the exterior of their house. Hauffe said the paint has a 10- to 12year lifespan, depending on how porous the wall on the side of the town office is. “I believe we’re in good shape,” she said. “It was like working in my own living room, it went really well.” Hauffe said that while she is not working on any other large projects in Loudoun right now, she’s hoping the Hamilton mural gives her some attention and more work elsewhere. Right now, she’s working on small commissions for private residents and digital backdrops for A Place to Be’s productions. In the past, Hauffe has painted a
Live Music: Willie White Band Friday, June 19, 6 p.m. Loudoun Brewing Company, 310 E. Market St., Leesburg Details: facebook.com/loudounbrewing Rock covers and originals from a local favorite.
Live Music: Bill Rose and Laurie Blue Friday, June 19, 8 p.m. King’s Tavern and Wine Bar, 19 S. King St., Leesburg Details: kingstavernandwinebar.com The tavern’s regular duo are back with acoustic rock covers and originals.
Live Music: Jessica Paulin
Photo by Phil Erickson
Local artist Penny Hauffe sits in front of the 14-by-8-foot mural she painted on the side of the Hamilton town office.
1,500-square-foot cloud-covered ceiling at the National Museum of the Marine Corps at Quantico and helped to paint the dandelion mural on the back wall of Akre Capi-
tal Management in Middleburg, the town’s only mural. Learn more about Hauffe’s work at pennypaint.com. n
Darrell Jackson, Sterling Youth, Founding Farmers and Others Combine to Offer Free Meals Pickup BY RENSS GREENE
rgreene@loudounnow.com
People and organizations from across the region joined to hand out drivethrough free meals in Sterling on Saturday, including Lower Loudoun Boy’s Football League, Founding Farmers restaurants, the Sterling Youth Foundation and its founder, former NFL player Darrell Jackson. Catch A Meal was organized by April Taylor, founder of the SVE Firm, a strategy firm. Jackson, who played wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers and Denver Broncos and once held a Seahawks record for receptions in a season, is one of her clients. And after she had the idea, Taylor said, “soon as I posted and started talking about it, so many people wanted to get involved.”
The LoCo Living calendar is back! The midsummer weather has been stellar and live music is starting to flow. Please check with venues for social distancing and reservation requirements before you make plans.
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
Founding Farmers General Manager Erich Stumpe, NFLPA DC President Ricky Ray, and former NFL Players and Sterling Youth Foundation founder Darrell Jackson load meals into vehicles at Catch A Meal in Sterling on June 13.
And the program brought together a broad group of people. Founding Farmers General Manager
Erich Stumpe said the restaurants got involved through Last Call, a company dedicated to fighting food waste and hunger through offering affordable meals from local restaurants. Last Call founder Erin McGeoy said she was excited to partner with Jackson and the Sterling Youth Foundation, “as we share the same belief that if you need food, you should be able to access it, no questions asked.” “It is important for those of us who have the ability to help others come together to reach as many people as we can,” Jackson said. In addition to cooked meals from Founding Farms through Last Call, volunteers also handed out fresh produce from Prince William Food Rescue, diapers and non-perishable meals provided by the FREE MEALS continues on page 29
Saturday, June 20, noon and 3 p.m. 50 West Vineyards, 39060 John Mosby Highway, Middleburg Details: facebook.com/50westvineyards Enjoy covers from the 60s through today with Paulin’s signature style. Paulin will be doing two shows by reservation.
Live Music: Don Chapman Saturday, June 20, 1 p.m. Doukenie Winery, 14727 Mountain Road, Hillsboro Details: doukeniewinery.com Kick back with covers from the Beatles to the Gin Blossoms as Chapman returns to a regular venue.
Live Music: Emma Rowley Saturday, June 20, 1 p.m. 868 Estate Vineyards, 14001 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro Details: 868estatevineyards.com The Nashville-based pop artist returns to Loudoun for fun summer gigs.
Live Music: Ted Garber Saturday, June 20, 1 p.m. Vanish Farmwoods Brewery, 42245 Black Hops Lane, Lucketts Details: vanishbeer.com One of Loudoun’s favorite entertainers is back on the scene with fun tunes and plenty of banter.
Live Music: Jed Duvall as Sir Paul McCartney Saturday, June 20, 1-4 p.m. Two Twisted Posts Winery, 12944 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro Details: twotwistedposts.com This award-winning tribute performer does an uncanny rendition of McCartney. Advance reservations are required.
Live Music: Chris Devine Saturday, June 20, 2-5 p.m. Lost Rhino Brewing Company 21730 Red
THINGS TO DO continues on page 29
ALWAYS ONLINE AT LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 18, 2020
THINGS to do continued from page 28
Rum Drive, Ashburn Details: lostrhino.com Get summer rolling with laid back tunes from Hootie, Cat Stevens and other favorites.
Live Music: Sweet Leda Saturday, June 20, 3:30 p.m. Harpers Ferry Brewing, 37412 Adventure Center Lane, Hillsboro Details: facebook.com/harpersferrybrewing The Annapolis-based rock/soul quartet performs indie hits.
Live Music: Juliana MacDowell Saturday, June 20, 6-9 p.m. B Chord Brewing, 34266 Williams Gap Road, Round Hill Details: bchordbrewing.com
Free meals continued from page 28
Renss Greene/Loudoun Now
A table of cooked meals and fresh produce on display at Catch A Meal in Sterling on June 13.
Loudoun County Sheriff Office’s Eastern Loudoun Station, and other COVID-19 supplies thanks to PJ Santiago, President of Santiago Team at KW Capital Properties. “Seeing what’s going on around in the world today, we just decided to do our part,” Jackson said. It was only the first Catch A Meal. Taylor said the event will continue through the summer. The event Saturday afternoon saw steady traffic. “It’s just three o’clock, and we only have two pallets left, and we started off with nine at two o’clock, so don’t tell me there’s not a need,” Taylor said at the event. “What I’m seeing is that society needs everybody to throw in a helping hand,” said NFLPA DC President Ricky Ray. “As long as people are in need, we’re going to try to service them the best way possible, as long as we have our partners with us and they’re able to provide us with meals and produce, we’ll keep going as long as possible,” Jackson said. n
PAGE 29
MacDowell returns to the Loudoun stage with her signature pop style with hints of country and folk joined by some of the region’s top musicians.
868 finally gets to kick off its beloved Music Under the Stars series with Western Loudoun’s own Joey Bauer and company.
Check out one of the region’s modern troubadours on a summer Sunday afternoon.
Live Music: Mercury Avenue
Live Music: Nathaniel Davis
Saturday, June 20, 6 p.m. Crooked Run Brewing, 22455 Davis Drive #120, Sterling Details: crookedrunbrewing.com Crooked Run celebrates Phase Two with groovy tunes from Haymarket’s Mercury Avenue.
Sunday, June 21, 1 p.m. More Better Restaurant and Beer Garden, 35246 Harry Byrd Highway, Round Hill Details: facebook.com/morebetterbeer Mellow tunes from a favorite singer/songwriter for Father’s Day brunch.
Sunday, June 21, 3 p.m. SideBar, 24 S. King St., Leesburg Details: facebook.com/sidebarlbg Funk, rock and reggae grooves from the Panic for the Vibe frontman.
Live Music: Joey and the Waitress
Live Music: John Durant
Saturday, June 20, 6 p.m. 868 Estate Vineyards, 14001 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro Details: 868estatevineyards.com
Sunday, June 21, 2 p.m. Maggie Malick Wine Caves, 12138 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro Details: maggiemalickwinecaves.com
Live Music: Larry Thomas Duo
Live Music: Rick Reaves Big Band Sunday, June 21, 6-8 p.m. B Chord Brewing, 34266 Williams Gap Road, Round Hill Details: bchordbrewing.com Celebrate Father’s Day big band style with local legend Rick Reaves and crew.
ALWAYS ONLINE AT LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 30
For Sale FOR SALE
JUNE 18, 2020
Legal Notices
FOR SALE
2006 GMC Sierra 4x4 Truck
Town of Leesburg Continues Water Valve Exercise and Maintenance Program Public Notification The Town of Leesburg is continuing a preventative maintenance program to protect the longevity and operation of the water system infrastructure and valves. This valve exercise program requires closing, then opening each main line valve and service line valves in specific distribution areas. The purpose of the program is to exercise main line valves throughout the distribution system to assure reliable operation and maintain water quality. During this program, crews will exercise the valves by operating each valve through a full cycle and returning it to its normal position. Where valves are exercised, a fire hydrant will be flowed to ensure that the water in the main remains clear.
2006 GMC Sierra 4x4 Truck
The Town of Hamilton has a 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 4x4 Pickup for sale.
The truck is a private passenger truck with a regular cab, includes a snowplow, and Themileage Town of of Hamilton has a 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 4x4 Pickup for sale. 81,371. TheThe truck is a private passenger with a regular4:00pm cab, includes a snowplow, Town is taking sealedtruck offers through on July 9, 2020. and Themileage sealedof 81,371. be opened at 10:00am on Friday July9,10, 2020 the Town at 53 at Theoffers Town will is taking sealed offers through 4:00pm on July 2020. Theinsealed offers Office will be opened E Colonial Hwy, 10:00am on Friday JulyHamilton, 10, 2020 inVA the20158. Town Office at 53 E Colonial Hwy, Hamilton, VA 20158.
During the valve turning exercise, customers may experience some sediment or discolored water for a short period of time. Water is safe to drink and safe to use during this period. If this condition is noticed, we recommend running several cold water taps at full force for a period of 1-2 minutes. It may be necessary to repeat this process after 30 minutes. In addition, the closing and opening of valves may introduce air into water lines which can cause temporary erratic water flow. If this occurs, open your cold water tap until a clear steady flow of water is observed. The valve exercising will occur April through November during the hours of 7 a.m. – 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Town regrets any inconvenience the maintenance program may cause. If you have any questions regarding our valve exercising program, or have any concerns about water quality, please call the Utilities Department at 703-737-7075. For after-hour emergencies, please call the Leesburg Police Department at 703-771-4500. 6/4, 6/11, 6/18, 6/25, 7/2, 7/9, 7/16, 7/23 & 7/30/20
TheThe vehicle is open for inspection by request Call (540) 338-2811 email: info@hamiltonva.gov vehicle is open for inspection by-request - Call (540)or338-2811 or email: info@hamiltonva.gov Mail offer to Town of Hamilton, PO Box 130, Hamilton, VA 20159 or drop off at 53 E Colonial Hwy,
PUBLIC NOTICE
Hamilton, VA 20158. Clearly mark envelope: 2006 GMC Sierra Offer. Mail offer to Town of Hamilton, PO Box 130, Hamilton, VA 20159 or drop off at Payment to be made by money order orVA certified/cashier’s check. Theenvelope: Town of Hamilton has the right to 53 E Colonial Hwy, Hamilton, 20158. Clearly mark 2006 GMC refuse anyOffer. offer. Sierra
The LOUDOUN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING AND DEVELOPMENT has accepted application for preliminary record plat of subdivision for the following project.
Payment to be made by money order or certified/cashier’s check. The Town of Hamilton has the right to refuse any offer.
FOR SALE
LAWN MOWER, JONSERED 4 wheel drive mulching, virtually new, $275.
571 246 6331
Yard Sale YARD SALE Moving/Everything must go! Including furniture and other bulk items
June 20-21 • 10am to 2 pm. 15355 Woodgrove Road, Hillsboro. Masks, gloves and social distancing please.
YARD/GARAGE SALE June 18, 19, 20 8am-4pm Rain or Shine
36623 W. Main Street, Purcellville Coins, Longaberger baskets, Glassware, Dolls, Furniture & Much More!
540-454-3822
Legal Notices ORDER OF PUBLICATION COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316
Case No.:
JJ039889-06-00 , Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Karley Bryner-Kerr Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v. Michael Smith, putative father The object of this suit is to hold a permanency planning hearing and review of Foster Care Plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-282.1 and 16.1-281 for Karley Bryner-Kerr. It is ORDERED that Michael Smith putative father appear at the above-named Court and protect his interests on or before July 21, 2020 at 2:00 pm. 6/11, 6/18, 6/25 & 7/2/20
SBPR-2020-0006 Belmont Executive Center Ms. Kathleen Rooney of RP Belmont Land LLC of Arlington, VA is requesting preliminary/ record plat of subdivision approval to subdivide approximately thirty (30.8706) acres into four (4) residential and non-residential lots. The property is located along between Belmont Manor Lane and Russell Branch Parkway (Route 1061). The property is zoned PD-OP (Planned Development – Office Park) under the provisions of the Revised 1993 Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance. The property is more particularly described as PINs 083-36-4171, 083-36-4817, and 083-26-4935 in the Ashburn Election District. Additional information regarding this application may be found on the Loudoun Online Land Applications System www.loudoun.gov/LOLA by searching for SBPR-2020-0006. Complete copies of the above referenced application(s) are also available for public review at the Loudoun County Department of Building and Development, Land Development File Room, 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, physical public access to the file may be interrupted. You may contact the project manager to arrange for alternative access to the file if necessary. Please forward any comments or questions to the project manager, Eric Blankenship at eric.blankenship@loudoun.gov or you may mail them to The Department of Building and Development, 1 Harrison Street, SE, 2nd Floor, Leesburg, Virginia by July 23, 2020. The Department of Building and Development will take action on the above application(s) in accordance with the requirements for preliminary/record subdivisions outlined in Section 1243.09 of the Land Subdivision and Development Ordinance (LSDO). 6/18/20
NOTICE OF IMPOUNDMENT OF ABANDONED VEHICLES This notice is to inform the owner and any person having a security interest in their right to reclaim the motor vehicle herein described within 15 days after the date of storage charges resulting from placing the vehicle in custody, and the failure of the owner or persons having security interests to exercise their right to reclaim the vehicle within the time provided shall be deemed a waiver by the owner, and all persons having security interests of all right, title and interest in the vehicle, and consent to the sale of the abandoned motor vehicle at a public auction. This notice shall also advise the owner of record of his or her right to contest the determination by the Sheriff that the motor vehicle was “abandoned”, as provided in Chapter 630.08 of the Loudoun County Ordinance, by requesting a hearing before the County Administrator in writing. Such written request for a hearing must be made within 15 days of the notice. YR. UNK
MAKE
UNK
MODEL
Dirt Motor Bike
VIN
L9NYCJLZ6J1011365
STORAGE
LCSO
PHONE#
571-258-3497 06/11 & 06/18//20
ALWAYS ONLINE AT LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 18, 2020
PAGE 31
Legal Notices NOTICE OF REPULIBCAN PRIMARY ELECTION June 23, 2020 A Republican Primary to elect a United States Senate candidate will be held throughout Loudoun County on Tuesday, June 23, 2020. The polls – which are listed below – will open at 6:00 a.m. and close at 7:00 p.m. Officers of Election will take the name of any qualified voter who is in line at the polling place by 7:00 p.m. and all such voters will be permitted to vote. 107 Little River, Little River Elementary School, 43464 Hyland Hills St., South Riding 108 Mercer, Mercer Middle School, 42149 Greenstone Dr., Aldie 112 Freedom, Freedom High School, 25450 Riding Center Dr., South Riding 114 Dulles South, Dulles South Recreation & Community Center, 24950 Riding Center Dr., South Riding 117 Carter, Rosa Lee Carter Elementary School, 43330 Loudoun Reserve Dr., Ashburn *118 Moorefield, Briar Woods High School, 22525 Belmont Ridge Rd., Ashburn 119 Arcola, Arcola Elementary School, 41740 Tall Cedars Pkwy., Aldie 120 Lunsford, J. Michael Lunsford Middle School, 26020 Ticonderoga Rd., Chantilly 121 Town Hall, South Riding Town Hall, 43055 Center St., South Riding 122 Hutchison Farm, Hutchison Farm Elementary School, 42819 Center St., South Riding 123 Cardinal Ridge, Cardinal Ridge Elementary School, 26155 Bull Run Post Office Rd., Centreville 124 Liberty, Liberty Elementary School, 25491 Riding Center Dr., South Riding 125 Rock Ridge, Rock Ridge High School, 43460 Loudoun Reserve Dr., Ashburn 126 Goshen Post, Goshen Post Elementary School, 24945 Lobo Drive, Aldie 207 River Bend, River Bend Middle School, 46240 Algonkian Pkwy., Sterling 208 Algonkian, Algonkian Elementary School, 20196 Carter Ct., Sterling 209 Potomac Falls, Potomac Falls High School, 46400 Algonkian Pkwy, Sterling 210 Cascades, Potowmack Elementary School, 46465 Esterbrook Cir., Sterling 213 Countryside, Countryside Elementary School, 20624 Countryside Blvd., Sterling 214 Sugarland North, Horizon Elementary School, 46665 Broadmore Dr., Sterling 215 Sugarland South, Meadowland Elementary School, 729 Sugarland Run Dr., Sterling 216 Lowes Island, Lowes Island Elementary School, 20755 Whitewater Dr., Sterling 217 South Bank, Potomac Baptist Church, 20747 Lowes Island Blvd., Sterling 218 University Center, GWU Exploration Hall, 20101 Academic Way, Ashburn 219 Galilee Church, Galilee Methodist Church, 45425 Winding Rd., Sterling 301 Purcellville, Emerick Elementary School, 440 S. Nursery Ave., Purcellville 302 Round Hill, Round Hill Center, 20 High St., Round Hill 303 Hillsboro, Old Stone School, 37098 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro 305 Philomont, Philomont Fire House, 36560 Jeb Stuart Rd., Philomont 307 Middleburg, Middleburg Town Office, 10 W. Marshall St., Middleburg 308 St. Louis, Banneker Elementary School, 35231 Snake Hill Rd., St. Louis 309 Aldie, Aldie United Methodist Church, 39325, John Mosby Hwy., Aldie 310 Mountain View, Mountain View Elementary School, 36803 Allder School Rd., Purcellville 311 Round Hill Elementary, Round Hill Elementary School, 17115 Evening Star Dr., Round Hill 312 Briar Woods, Briar Woods High School, 22525 Belmont Ridge Rd., Ashburn 313 Pinebrook, Pinebrook Elementary School, 25480 Mindful Ct., Aldie 314 Legacy, Legacy Elementary School, 22995 Minerva Dr., Ashburn 315 Firehouse, Philomont Fire House, 36560 Jeb Stuart Rd., Philomont 316 Creighton’s Corner, Creighton’s Corner Elementary School, 23171 Minerva Dr., Ashburn 318 Madison’s Trust, Madison’s Trust Elementary School, 42380 Creighton Road, Ashburn 319 John Champe, John Champe High School, 41535 Sacred Mountain St, Aldie 320 Stone Hill, Stone Hill Middle School, 23415 Evergreen Ridge Drive, Ashburn 321 Brambleton Middle, Brambleton Middle School, 23070 Learning Circle, Ashburn 322 Buffalo Trail, Buffalo Trail Elementary School, 42190 Seven Hills Drive, Aldie *401 West Lovettsville, Lovettsville Game Protective Association, 16 S. Berlin Tpke, Lovettsville 402 Waterford, Waterford Elementary School, 15513 Loyalty Rd., Waterford 403 Lucketts, Lucketts Community Center, 42361 Lucketts Rd., Lucketts 407 Harper Park, Harper Park Middle School, 701 Potomac Station Dr. NE, Leesburg 408 Evergreen, Evergreen Mill Elementary School, 491 Evergreen Mill Rd. SE, Leesburg 409 Clarkes Gap, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 605 W. Market St., Leesburg 411 East Lovettsville, Lovettsville Elementary School, 49 S. Loudoun St., Lovettsville 413 Tuscarora, Tuscarora High School, 801 N. King St., Leesburg 414 Red Rock, Red Rock Community Center, 43131 Lake Ridge Pl., Leesburg 416 Hamilton, Hamilton Baptist Church, 16 E. Colonial Hwy., Hamilton 420 River Creek, Harper Park Middle School, 701 Potomac Station Dr. NE, Leesburg 421 Between the Hills, Between the Hills Community Center, 11762 Harpers Ferry Rd., Purcellville 422 Sycolin Creek, Sycolin Creek Elementary School, 21100 Evergreen Mills Rd., Leesburg 501 West Leesburg, Ida Lee Recreation Center, 60 Ida Lee Dr. NW, Leesburg
502 East Leesburg, Frances Hazel Reid Elementary School, 800 N. King St., Leesburg 503 Dry Mill, Loudoun County High School, 415 Dry Mill Rd. SW, Leesburg 504 Smarts Mill, Smarts Mill Middle School, 850 N. King St., Leesburg 505 Cool Spring, Cool Spring Elementary School, 501 Tavistock Dr. SE, Leesburg 506 Brandon Park, Douglass Community Center, 405 E. Market St., Leesburg 507 Greenway, J.L. Simpson Middle School, 490 Evergreen Mill Rd. SE, Leesburg 508 Balls Bluff, Balls Bluff Elementary School, 821 Battlefield Pkwy. NE, Leesburg 509 Tolbert, John W. Tolbert Jr. Elementary School, 691 Potomac Station Dr. NE, Leesburg 510 Heritage, Heritage High School, 520 Evergreen Mill Rd. SE, Leesburg 615 Hillside, Hillside Elementary School, 43000 Ellzey Dr., Ashburn 616 Eagle Ridge, Eagle Ridge Middle School, 42901 Waxpool Rd., Ashburn 617 Oak Grove, Oak Grove Baptist Church, 22870 Dominion Ln., Sterling 619 Ridgetop, Loudoun County Office Building, 21641 Ridgetop Cir., Sterling 620 Russell Branch, Ashburn Elementary School, 44062 Fincastle Dr., Ashburn 621 Dominion Trail, Dominion Trail Elementary School, 44045 Bruceton Mills Circle, Ashburn 622 Farmwell Station, Farmwell Station Middle School, 44281 Gloucester Pkwy., Ashburn 623 Weller, Steuart W. Weller Elementary School, 20700 Marblehead Dr., Ashburn 625 Mill Run, Mill Run Elementary School, 42940 Ridgeway Dr., Ashburn 626 Ashby Ponds, Great Oak Clubhouse, 44755 Audobon Sq., Ashburn 627 Ashbrook, Parks and Recreation Admin Building, 20145 Ashbrook Pl., Ashburn 628 Moorefield Station, Moorefield Station Elementary School, 22325 Mooreview Pkwy., Ashburn 629 Discovery, Discovery Elementary School, 44020 Grace Bridge Dr., Ashburn 701 Sully, Sully Elementary School, 300 Circle Dr., Sterling 702 Park View, Park View High School, 400 W. Laurel Ave., Sterling 703 Rolling Ridge, Rolling Ridge Elementary School, 500 E. Frederick Dr., Sterling 705 Forest Grove, Forest Grove Elementary School, 46245 Forest Ridge Dr, Sterling 707 Claude Moore Park, Claude Moore Recreation Center, 46105 Loudoun Park Lane Sterling 708 Seneca, Seneca Ridge Middle School, 98 Seneca Ridge Dr., Sterling 709 Mirror Ridge, Sugarland Elementary School, 65 Sugarland Run Dr., Sterling 710 Sterling, Sterling Middle School, 201 West Holly Ave., Sterling 808 Stone Bridge, Stone Bridge High School, 43100 Hay Rd., Ashburn 810 Cedar Lane, Cedar Lane Elementary School, 43700 Tolamac Dr., Ashburn 813 Seldens Landing, Seldens Landing Elementary School, 43345 Coton Commons Dr., Leesburg 814 Newton-Lee, Newton-Lee Elementary School, 43335 Gloucester Pkwy., Ashburn 815 Belmont Ridge, Belmont Ridge Middle School, 19045 Upper Belmont Pl., Leesburg 817 Sanders Corner, Sanders Corner Elementary School, 43100 Ashburn Farm Pkwy., Ashburn 818 Broad Run, Broad Run High School, 21670 Ashburn Rd., Ashburn 819 Heritage Church, Heritage Baptist Church, 21700 Shellhorn Rd., Ashburn 820 Belmont Station, Belmont Station Elementary School, 20235 Nightwatch St., Ashburn 822 Riverside, Riverside High School, 19019 Upper Belmont Pl., Leesburg *Denotes a change in voting location for this election only. The last day for in-person absentee voting is Saturday, June 20, 2020. The Leesburg absentee precinct, located at 750 Miller Dr. SE., Suite C, Leesburg 20175 (near the Leesburg Airport), is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday. The absentee precinct will also be open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 20. Note: Satellite absentee locations are not open for primary elections. All absentee ballots requested must be returned to the Office of Elections no later than 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June23, 2020, Election Day, to be counted. PLEASE NOTE: Strict social distancing measures will be in place on Election Day. All voters are reminded to remain 6 feet apart while waiting in line and only a small number of people will be allowed into the polling place at one time. Voters should expect delays when voting on Tuesday, June 23, 2020. Inquiries concerning the election and questions regarding registration status may be directed to the Loudoun County Office of Elections, 703-777-0380, located at 750 Miller Dr. SE. Suite C, Leesburg 20175. Please visit www.loudoun.gov/vote for additional information. Authorized by: Judith A. Brown, General Registrar Loudoun County Office of Elections
06/18/20
ALWAYS ONLINE AT LOUDOUNNOW.COM
PAGE 32
JUNE 18, 2020
Legal Notices PUBLIC HEARING The LOUDOUN COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION will hold a public hearing in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room on the first floor of the County Government Center, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., Leesburg, Virginia, on Tuesday, June 23, 2020, at 6:00 p.m. to consider the following: SIDP-2020-0004 HARTLAND SIGN DEVELOPMENT PLAN (Sign Development Plan)
Timber Ridge at Hartland, LLC of Ashburn, Virginia, has submitted an application for a Sign Development Plan to request alternative sign regulations for permitted signs in order to modify the total aggregate sign area, maximum number of signs, maximum area of any one sign, maximum area of mounted background structure, illumination permitted, minimum setback from right-of-way, maximum height, sign type permitted, and additional requirements. The subject property is in the Transitional Residential-1 Upper Broad Run and Upper Foley (TR-1UBF), Transitional Residential-3 Upper Broad Run and Upper Foley (TR-3UBF), Transitional Residential-2 (TR-2) and Rural Commercial (RC) zoning districts under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance. This application is subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, and pursuant to Section 5-1202(E) alternative sign regulations for permitted signs may be requested with the submission of a Sign Development Plan. The subject property is located partially within the AI (Airport Impact) Overlay District outside of but within one (1) mile of the Ldn 60 aircraft noise contours. The subject property is approximately 815 acres in size and is located on the west side of Fleetwood Road (Route 616), north of Route 50 in the Blue Ridge Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as follows: PIN
PROPERTY ADDRESS
244-36-8224
23583 Fleetwood Road, Aldie, Virginia
245-45-9645
N/A
284-10-3552
N/A
policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Rural Policy Area (Rural Historic Village and Rural North Place Types)), which designate this area for small Residential or Commercial core that provide for the daily needs of village residents, surrounding rural residents, and visitors; and pastoral and forested landscapes that serve mostly Agricultural and Agricultural Supportive uses with limited Residential.
ZMAP-2019-0001, ZMOD-2019-0001 & ZMOD-2019-0054 BELFORT PARK DRIVE TOWNHOMES (Zoning Map Amendment & Zoning Modification) Davis Drive LLC., of Manassas Park, Virginia, has submitted an application to rezone approximately 1.97 acres from the R-4 (Single Family Residential) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance to the R-16 (Townhouse/Multifamily Residential) zoning district under the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance in order to develop 20 townhomes at a density of 10.15 dwelling units per acre. The subject property is located within the Route 28 Taxing District and within the AI (Airport Impact) Overlay District, outside of but within one (1) mile of the Ldn 60, aircraft noise contour. The Applicant also requests the following Zoning Ordinance modification(s): ZONING ORDINANCE SECTION
PROPOSED MODIFICATION
§3-602, R-16 Townhouse/Multifamily Residential, Size and Location.
Reduce the minimum lot size from two acres to 1.97 acres.
§3-606(C)(3)(c), R-16 Townhouse/ Multifamily Residential, Lot Requirements, Yards, Traditional Design Option for Single Family Attached, Rear.
Reduce the rear yard setback minimum from 25 feet to 20 feet.
285-48-7020
N/A
285-39-5280
23620 Lenah Farm Lane, Aldie, Virginia
285-30-4849
N/A
245-26-5476
N/A
245-15-4099
N/A
245-15-3140
N/A
285-29-6818
41038 John Mosby Highway, Aldie, Virginia
285-19-9317
N/A
285-10-8373
N/A
(Zoning Concept Plan Amendment & Zoning Ordinance Modification)
244-37-0788
N/A
244-47-7397
N/A
244-38-2661
N/A
244-38-2031
N/A
244-37-5249
N/A
Washington-Virginia Traditional Land Development Sites Inc., of Leesburg, Virginia, has submitted an application to amend the existing proffers and concept development plan (“CDP”) approved with ZMAP1995-0004 and ZCPA-2003-0002, Elysian Heights in order to eliminate a portion of the required Village Conservancy Subdistrict Buffer located along Saint Clair Lane between Sylvan Bluff Drive and Elysian Drive and extend the southern boundary of the Village Center to Saint Clair Lane and remove the conservancy lot designation for the subject property with no resulting change in density. These applications are subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance. The Applicant also requests the following Zoning Ordinance modification(s):
244-37-6561
N/A
244-37-3597
N/A
244-27-3072
N/A
244-27-2454
N/A
The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 Comprehensive Plan (Transition Policy Area (Transition Large Lot Neighborhood Place Type and Transition Community Center)), which designate this area for low-density Residential uses with substantial open space with target densities of 1 dwelling unit (du) per acre or 1 du/3 acres and Pedestrian-focused retail centers with small footprint Retail uses with a recommended Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of up to 0.3.
SPEX-2019-0041 & SPEX-2019-0042 TANJA & WALID AHMADI (Special Exceptions)
Tanja and Walid Ahmadi of Aldie, Virginia, have submitted applications for the following: 1) A Special Exception to permit automotive service station in the RC (Rural Commercial) zoning district; and 2) A Special Exception to permit motor vehicle sales and service in the RC (Rural Commercial) zoning district. These applications are subject to the Revised 1993 Zoning Ordinance, and the proposed uses are listed as Special Exception uses under Section 2-904. The subject property is located within the VCOD (Village Conservation Overlay District-Village of Loudoun Heights). The subject property is approximately 2.43 acres in size and is located on the west side of Harpers Ferry Road (Route 671), south of Turneysville Road (Route 833), at 11173 Harpers Ferry Road, Purcellville, Virginia, in the Catoctin Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 472-15-6385. The area is governed by the
The subject property is approximately 1.97 acres in size and is located on the north side of Belfort Park Drive (Route 891), the east side of Glenn Drive (Route 864) and the east side of Davis Drive (Route 868) in the Sterling Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 032-25-5420. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Suburban Policy Area (Suburban Compact Neighborhood Place Type)), which designate this area for a mix of housing types including Small-lot Patio Homes, Townhomes, Duplexes, and Multi-family Residences at a recommended density of 8 – 24 dwelling units per acre.
ZCPA-2019-0013 & ZMOD-2019-0047 ELYSIAN HEIGHTS RURAL VILLAGE
ZONING ORDINANCE SECTION
PROPOSED MODIFICATION
§4-1206(A), PD-RV Planned DevelopmentRural Village, Size and Location of Subdistricts, Village Conservancy Subdistrict.
Eliminate the requirement that the Village Center Subdistrict be ringed by the Village Conservancy Subdistrict
§4-1206(A)(4), PD-RV Planned DevelopmentRural Village, Size and Location of Subdistricts, Village Conservancy Subdistrict.
Reduce the required buffer of land from 800 feet in width to 300 feet in width and also to allow a portion of the buffer along Saint Clair Lane to be located between Sylvian Bluff Drive and Elysian Drive
§4-1216(B)(1), PD-RV Planned DevelopmentRural Village, Land Use Arrangement, Spatial Relationship of Village Subdistricts and Areas.
Eliminate the requirement that the Village Conservancy Subdistrict surround the Village Center Subdistrict
The subject property is approximately 12.84 acres in size and is located on the north side of Saint Clair Lane (Route 658), east of James Monroe Highway (Route 15) in the Catoctin Election District. The subject property is more particularly described as PIN: 102-36-5157. The area is governed by the policies of the Loudoun County 2019 General Plan (Rural Policy Area (Rural North Place Type)) which designates this area for Rural Economy uses and limited Residential development.
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
ALWAYS ONLINE AT LOUDOUNNOW.COM
JUNE 18, 2020
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 703-777-0246 (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. To arrange a time to view the file at the Loudoun County Government Center, please email dpz@loudoun.gov or call 703-777-0246, or you may view the file electronically at www.loudoun.gov/lola. 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). Additionally, documents may be viewed and downloaded electronically the week before the hearing at www.loudoun.gov/pc. Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, this meeting could be conducted as an electronic meeting. Members of the public are also generally encouraged to view and/or participate in the public hearing electronically. All members of the public will be heard as to their views pertinent to these matters. Planning Commission public hearings are available for viewing on television on Comcast Government Channel 23, Open Band Channel 40, and Verizon FiOS Channel 40, and are livestreamed at loudoun.gov/webcast Citizens are encouraged to call in advance to sign up to speak at the public hearing. Instructions for remote participation will be forwarded to all individuals who sign-up in advance. If you wish to sign up in advance of the hearing, please call the Department of Planning and Zoning at 703-777-0246 prior to 12:00 PM on the day of the public hearing. Speakers may also sign up at the hearing. Written comments are welcomed at any time and may be sent to the Loudoun County Planning Commission, 1 Harrison Street, S.E., 3rd Floor,
PAGE 33
MSC #62, Leesburg, Virginia 20175, or by e-mail to loudounpc@loudoun.gov. Any individual representing and/or proposing to be the sole speaker on behalf of a citizen’s organization or civic association is encouraged to contact the Department of Planning and Zoning prior to the date of the public hearing if special arrangements for additional speaking time and/or audio-visual equipment will be requested. Such an organization representative will be allotted 6 minutes to speak, and the Chairman may grant additional time if the request is made prior to the date of the hearing and the need for additional time is reasonably justified. Citizens are encouraged to call the Department of Planning and Zoning on the day of the public hearing to confirm that an item is on the agenda, or, the most current agenda may be viewed on the Planning Commission’s website at www.loudoun.gov/pc. In the event that the second Thursday is a holiday or the meeting may not be held due to inclement weather or other conditions that make it hazardous for members to attend, the meeting will be moved to the third Tuesday of the month. In the event that Tuesday is a holiday or the Tuesday meeting may not be held due to inclement weather or other conditions that make it hazardous for members to attend, the meeting will be held on the following Thursday. The meeting will be held at a place determined by the Chairman. Hearing assistance is available for meetings in the Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room. FM Assistive Listening System is available at the meetings at all other locations. If you require any type of reasonable accommodation as a result of a physical, sensory or mental disability to participate in this meeting, contact the Department of Planning and Zoning at 703-777-0246. Please provide three days’ notice. BY ORDER OF:
ERIC COMBS, CHAIRMAN LOUDOUN COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
06/04, 06/11 & 6/18/20
TOWN OF MIDDLEBURG PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
TOWN OF LEESBURG ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2020 APPROVED BUDGET
IFB NO. 52408-FY20-51 ANNUAL STREET MAINTENANCE – CONCRETE AND BRICK REPAIRS
The Middleburg Town Council will hold a virtual Public Hearing online, broadcasting from the Council Chambers at 10 West Marshall Street, Middleburg, Virginia on June 25, 2020, at 6:00 p.m. for the purpose of receiving comments on proposed budget amendments to the adopted Fiscal Year 2020 General Fund budget and Utility Fund budget, in accordance with Sections 15.2-2506 and 15.2-2507 of the 1950 Code of Virginia, as amended. The following supplemental appropriations are proposed:
SEALED BIDS to construct the above project WILL BE RECEIVED by the Town of Leesburg, either by mail or hand delivered to the Procurement Office, 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176, UNTIL BUT NO LATER THAN 3:00PM P.M. ON JUNE 25, 2020. Bids shall be marked “Sealed Bid for Annual Street Maintenance – Concrete and Brick Repairs Bid Date– Thursday, June 25, 2020 – 3:00 P.M.”
General Fund Supplemental Appropriations From CARES Act Funds Contingency
At the bid due date and time, bids will be opened and read aloud in the Lower Level Conference Room 2 of Town Hall located at 25 West Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176. The bid opening will be limited to ten (10) in-person participants, including Town personnel, and may not be available for all interested persons to attend. The bid opening will be livestreamed via WebEx and made available to the public. All questions regarding this bid must be submitted in writing via email to CapitalBidQuestions@ leesburgva.gov until but no later than 5:00 P.M. on Friday, June 19, 2020.
To Econ. Dev. COVID 19 Support Econ. Dev. COVID 19 Support
Total Supplemental Appropriations:
$199,250
From Contingency
Amount $ 90,000
To Charitable Contributions
Total Supplemental Appropriations
Work includes repairs to concrete curb and gutter, header curbs, concrete sidewalk, concrete driveway aprons, ramps for the mobility impaired, brick sidewalks, and other associated work identified on the bid form in various locations within the Town and all incidentals related thereto.
From Contingency Unencumbered GF Balance
The Town reserves the right to perform all, part, or none of the work.
$ 90,000 To Windy Hill Driveway CIP Windy Hill Driveway CIP
Total Supplemental Appropriations:
This is a renewable contract for up to four additional one-year periods. The initial one-year contract - is estimated to begin in August, 2020.
Amount $ 13,730 $ 26,270 $ 40,000
Utility Fund Supplemental Appropriations From 2020 Series Refunding Bond
Bid Documents are available from the Town’s Bid Board at http://www.leesburgva.gov/bidboard. Contact Cindy Steyer at 703-737-2302 or csteyer@leesburgva.gov with questions about obtaining bid documents. Any addenda issued for this project will be posted on the Town’s Bid Board and eVA (https://eva.virginia.gov) with a courtesy email to those firms who have registered on the Town’s Bid Board. It is the bidders’ responsibility to provide a correct email address and to be aware of any addenda. Renee LaFollette, P.E., Director Department of Public Works & Capital Projects
Amount $ 74,824 $124,426
To West End Pump Station CIP
Total Supplemental Appropriations:
Amount $790,000 $790,000
Details of the proposed amendments may be reviewed online or at the Finance Director’s Office located at 10 West Marshall Street in Middleburg, VA - Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m, holidays excepted. Questions may be directed to the Finance Director at 540-687-5152. Julie Rivard Finance Director/Town Treasurer
06/18/20
06/18/20
NOTICE OF ABANDONED BICYCLES Notice is hereby given that the bicycles described below were found and delivered to the Office of the Sheriff of Loudoun County; if the owners of the listed bicycles are not identified within sixty (60) days following the final publication of this notice, the individuals who found said bicycles shall be entitled to them if he/she desires. All unclaimed bicycles will be handled according to Chapter 228.04 of the Codified Ordinances of Loudoun County.
LoudounNow.com
Recovery Location
Phone Number
5/12/2020
100 block Brighton Ave, Sterling
571-258-3497
5/14/2020
44200 block Mossy Brook Square, Ashburn
571-258-3497
5/14/2020
47300 block Grandview Place, Sterling
571-258-3497
Description
Case Number
Recovery Date
Pink/black “NEXT” bicycle model 8575-83C
SO200007870
Gray and red adult Nishiki bicycle
SO200007971
Black/orange Mongoose Rebel bicycle
SO200007993
06/11 & 06/18/20
CON
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Blue Ridg
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www.brrin
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PAGE 34
NOTICE ABC LICENSE Regal Cinemas Inc, trading as Regal Fox Stadium 16 & IMAX, 22875 Brambleton Plaza Ashburn, Virginia 20148 The above establishment is applying to the VIRGINIA AlCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL (ABC) AUTHORITY for a Mixed Beverage Restaurant license to sell or manufacture alcoholic beverages. John A Curry, Vice President Note: Objections to the issuance of this license must be submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200.
TOWN OF LEESBURG TOWN COUNCIL MEETING Remote Public Participation Available Members of the public who wish to speak during the petitioners’ section of the June 23, 2020, Leesburg Town Council Meeting can do so remotely. Information on how to participate remotely can be found on the Town of Leesburg’s website www.leesburgva.gov/ agendas or on the agenda that will be posted outside of the Clerk’s Office and in the lobby of Town Hall (25 West Market Street) by close of business on June 17, 2020. If you need more information, contact the Clerk of Council at eboeing@leesburgva.gov or 703-771-2733. 6/18/2020
6/11 & 6/18/20
LOUDOUN COUNTY WILL BE ACCEPTING SEALED COMPETITIVE PROPOSALS FOR: COMMISSIONING SERVICES, RFP No. 234783 until prior to 4:00 p.m., local “Atomic Time”, July 13, 2020.
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
ORDER OF PUBLICATION
Case No.:
Case No.:
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA VA. CODE § 8.01-316
JJ039941-19-00 , Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Andy Anthony Alas Loudoun County Department of Family Services The object of this suit is to hold a foster care review hearing and review of foster care plan pursuant to Virginia Code § 16.1-282.2 for Andy Anthony Alas. It is ORDERED that the defendant, Maria Alas, mother (aka Maria Luisa Alas), Enoch Rivera, stepfather; and Unknown Father appear at the above-named Court and protect their interests on or before July 14, 2020 at 2:00 pm. 6/18, 6/25, 7/2 & 7/9/20
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.
JUNE 18, 2020
JJ044071-02-00 , Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
Commonwealth of Virginia, in re Abigail Rivera Hernandez Loudoun County Department of Family Services /v. Nelson Bismarck Rivera Espinoza, putative father and Rosibel Hernandez Zepeda, mother The object of this suit is to hold a permanency planning hearing and review of Foster Care Plan pursuant to Virginia Code §§ 16.1-282.1 and 16.1-281 for Abigail Rivera Hernandez. It is ORDERED that Nelson Bismarck Rivera Espinoza, putative father and, Rosibel Hernandez Zepeda, mother appear at the above-named Court and protect their interests on or before June 24, 2020 at 3:00 pm. 6/11 & 6/18/20
Tax Preparation (Individual & Business)
Stewart C. Petchenick
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(703) 901-2494
petchenickstewartcpa@gmail.com
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PAGE 35
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PAGE 36
JUNE 18, 2020
Opinion Community Commitment Life has returned to Loudoun’s streets and storefronts. Phase 2 has flowed over the county like a welcome summer wave. The challenge will be to keep it flowing amid a still uncertain future with the coronavirus. That challenge falls to us. The county’s business leaders have gotten us off to a good start with the Loudoun Is Ready campaign, which provides assurances that managers and staff have the knowledge and the tools to keep patrons safe when they walk through the door. When we walk through the door, our part is to support those efforts by complying with the safety procedures they have put
Remembering the Journey
in place for their employees and other visitors. The penalty for getting this wrong is too high. Many other states already are wrestling with spiking case counts after emerging from lockdowns. That could be expected with increased availability of testing. However, the increases they are seeing in hospital loads points to deeper concerns. We can get back to work and back to socializing and, hopefully, back to school. But that requires a community commitment to continue fighting the spread of the virus. n
Norman K. Styer, Publisher and Editor nstyer@loudounnow.com Published by Amendment One Loudoun, LLC 15 N. King St., Suite 101 Leesburg, VA, 20176 PO Box 207 • Leesburg, VA 20178 703-770-9723
EDITORIAL Renss Greene, Deputy Editor rgreene@loudounnow.com
LETTERS to the Editor Editor: As an old foot soldier in the Civil Rights struggle, I have been delighted to see the outpouring of African Americans and young white Americans on the streets in largely peaceful protests across our great country. And, especially the local leadership of Chair Randall and others here in Loudoun County. What has given me pause is the failure of our leaders and media to comment on the historic efforts over the past 70 plus years to reach this point. To recognize how far we need to go does not preclude praise for how far we have come. When I was growing up in New Jersey in the 1940s, race was just accepted as “the way things are.” My parents and I had no black friends, no black families lived in our neighborhood, the few black
Jan Mercker, Reporter jmercker@loudounnow.com Kara C. Rodriguez, Reporter krodriguez@loudounnow.com Patrick Szabo, Reporter pszabo@loudounnow.com
students in high school never came to the prom. Then I went on a church weekend work trip to Philadelphia. I was painting a room in this crumbling old house when I asked the African-American lady why her baby’s crib was covered by wire mesh and she replied “to keep the rats from biting the baby.” That was one of my first life changing moments. At my college in the early 1950s, there were not more than two or three dozen students of color out of 4,000. I was president of the Human Rights Society, a campus organization and we could not get more than 15 or 20 students to join. In the spring, I went south for the first time with the lacrosse team and saw the profusion of “Whites Only” signs along the highways. LETTERS continues on page 38
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Loudoun Now is delivered by mail to more than 44,000 Loudoun homes and businesses, with a total weekly distribution of 47,000.
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JUNE 18, 2020
PAGE 37
PARENTING WITH A PURPOSE
Tough Conversations with Teens BY NEIL MCNERNEY
The past few months have been unprecedented in the number of difficult issues teens and families have had to face. We have seen our teens deal with worries about COVID, a radical change in education, missing their connection with friends, and trying to come to terms with race relations. Teens are working extremely hard to come to terms with these new issues on top of the average, dayto-day issues of adolescence. In this column, I am going to focus on what we can do, as parents, to encourage dialog about these topics. Although our teens will sometimes act as if they don’t care about our opinion, there is a way we can help structure tough conversations so that they feel heard and allow them to grow. My first suggestion is to remember that a crucial part of adolescence is differentiation. Developmentally, this means beginning to be our own person. A part of that process is trying out different points of view, different values, and ways to thinking about their life and the world. Our goal is to encourage our teens to navigate this differentiation in a way that helps them learn about the world and, especially, themselves. Remember: Don’t take it personally. Often, differentiation will look like a rejection of the values you might have instilled in them. The more we take things person-
ally, the more likely the conversation will grind to a halt. Your teen is trying out new ways of thinking and feeling about themselves and the world. Stay curious and don’t assume you know the “right” answer. A sure-fire way to squelch a conversation is to assume that you are right and your teen is wrong. They will feel it immediately and either stop talking or start yelling. Instead of focusing on right or wrong, try to learn something about your teen. As I have said in other columns, our children have a great ability to teach us about many things in life. We just need to be aware and not assume that we know everything, and they don’t. For instance, let’s imagine that your teen tells you that their mental health is more important to them than trying to stay safe from COVID, and that they should be able to spend time physically with their friends. You, on the other hand, do not think it is safe yet for them to do this. Instead of just disagreeing with them and stating your reasons for disagreement, try focusing on their statement. Ask them more about how this has been affecting their mental health. Let them know that you understand how hard this must be for them. “I can’t imagine what this must be like for you, especially because I know how important your friends are in your life.” The goal is not to jump to disagreeing right away. Frame it in a positive light. Even if they don’t get their way, they will feel that at least you understand why this is so hard for them.
Another suggestion to increase communication is to be OK with strong emotions. Our teens are feeling things very strongly, and they are still learning to effectively communicate those feelings. Home should be a safe place to practice this. One way to do this is to focus on their passion, not on their logic in the moment. If your teen, for instance, shares what, to you, might be an extreme position on current events, don’t initially focus on changing their minds. Instead, focus on their passion about the topic, such as: “This is really important to you,” or “I can tell you’ve put a lot of thought into this,” or “I can tell this means a lot to you.” These types of statements encourage more conversation and reminds your teen that your value their opinion. Hopefully, these ideas will increase the chances of increased communication with our teens. Stay curious and remember that our teen can also teach us things. Our relationships, and our teens, will benefit. n Neil McNerney is a licensed professional counselor and author of Homework – A Parent’s Guide To Helping Out Without Freaking Out! and The Don’t Freak Out Guide for Parenting Kids with Asperger’s. He can be reached at neil@neilmcnerney.com.
Can I Give You a Hug? BY CHRIS CROLL
It has been said that human beings need four hugs a day for survival, eight hugs a day for maintenance and 12 hugs a day for growth. If that is true, one has to wonder what the social-emotional impact will be on tens of millions of people who have not hugged anyone for many months during the COVID-19 pandemic. Why are hugs so beneficial? Research shows that hugging reduces stress in our bodies while sending calming messages to the brain. A gentle hug can stimulate the release of oxytocin which researchers call, “the cuddle hormone.” Different populations have felt the absence of hugs during this pandemic in different ways. Many elderly people who follow strict social distancing rules have had to forego holding newborn grandchildren, embracing graduating seniors and wrapping their arms around a friend grieving the loss of their spouse. Young children who have been told they are no longer allowed to hug friends, cousins or other family members may be confused by the new rules. Since
kids work hard from a young age to master appropriate greeting protocols, this change in process could cause sadness and hurt feelings, especially if they try to hug an adult who backs away from them in fear. Even “leave me alone I hate you all” teenagers can suffer emotionally when they experience a lack of regular human touch. This is why high-fives, fist bumps, hugs and handshakes are all core elements of adolescent social interactions. Hugs help cement strong connections. But there is some good news for the hug-starved out there! The New York Times recently published a guide called, “How to Hug During a Pandemic,” which outlines techniques for how to hug safely. The guide was created by Linsey Marr, an aerosol scientist at Virginia Tech who used mathematical models from a Hong Kong study to calculate the risk of virus transmission during an embrace. Marr’s study found that if people follow simple guidelines, hugging is low risk for spreading Coronavirus—even if one of the people doing the hugging is infected and happens to cough during the embrace. For adults, the safest way to hug, the guide says, is to do so wearing masks and with heads facing in
opposite directions. Since COVID-19 is passed from person to person through respiratory secretions, it is important to keep hugs short in duration and to refrain from talking or crying during the exchange. The period of greatest risk for the huggers is while they are face to face as they lean in and out of the hug. For an adult to safely hug a child, the guide recommends letting the child wrap their arms around the adult’s waist, so the child’s face remains several inches away from the adult’s face. Some people may still not be comfortable hugging it out just yet so always ask before you go in for a squeeze. But once you do start embracing others again you may be surprised at just how powerful the experience is. We may never get back to a dozen hugs a day, but a few snuggles here and there can give us a feel-good boost. n Chris Croll is a writer, community activist and former member of the Loudoun County School Board (Catoctin District). She lives in Leesburg with her husband and two children.
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LETTERS to the Editor continued from page 36
When my future wife and I went to the Greensboro Court House in 1955 to get our marriage license there were separate “black” and “white” water fountains. To show our disapproval we decided in a futile gesture to each drink from the “black” fountain while folks just stared at us as if we were from Mars. At the same time came the Supreme Court decision on Brown vs the Board of Education, Martin Luther King and other courageous black and white leaders emerged on a national scale. Heroic young people conducted sit ins. The famous march across the bridge. The attacks by the vicious dogs. Yes, excessive police brutality was a key factor even then. It all led to the massive Civil Rights legislative changes under Kennedy and
Demonstrations continued from page 3 capped off on Sunday with around 1,000 people joining a mile-long march led by the Loudoun NAACP from Ashburn Village Plaza, down Gloucester Parkway and Ashburn Road to the historic Ashburn School for the Colored. Along the way, marchers chanted “no justice, no peace, no racist police” and “what’s his name: George Floyd; what’s her name: Breonna Taylor,” among other
School plan continued from page 1 ity will accommodate a two-day-a-week schedule. A survey to be sent this week may shed some light on that question, as parents are expected to be offered an option to keep their kids at home next year for fully online instruction. While that option might free up classroom space, there might not be enough teachers to support that program—teachers instructing in-person can’t also teach fully online students. School Board members acknowledged the scale of work that has been conducted by administrators and 27 focus groups with 245 participants over the past month to refine the plan, but many questions have yet to be answered. “I hate the ambiguity that we’ve had over these weeks and I hate the ambiguity
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JUNE 18, 2020
Johnson in the 1960’s and our slow and painful progress ever since. So, as we support these protests and join the call for “justice” let us note the many black mayors who speak to us on TV are there because of white votes as well as their own initiative over the years. Today, the vast majority of white people are comfortable living in neighborhoods with minority families, consulting with minority doctors and other professionals, having their children taught by minority teachers, and have minority friends. I hope we can be more fine grained in our calling out “white racism” as the prime cause of black injustice. It is true “white racism” exists and must be opposed, but at the same time we need to recognize the huge progress in social change which a once majority white nation has accommodated to its credit since the days of my youth. — Alfred P. Van Huyck, Round Hill
Bind the Wounds
phrases. Once at the school in Ashburn’s historic district, local leaders took turns stepping up to the microphone to address the crowd. Michelle Thomas, the president of the Loudoun NAACP, said Sunday’s event was more than a march—it was part of a broader movement. She said voting this November will be the only way to make the change they’re pushing for. “You better vote like your life depends on it,” she said. Leesburg Town Councilman Ron Campbell, who organized the county’s first “I Can’t Breathe” protest May 31
through his Citizens for a Better Leesburg group, talked about how President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation into effect in 1863 “because black lives matter.” “Black lives still matter,” he said. Campbell made note of the death of Rayshard Brooks, who was killed by an Atlanta police officer after grabbing that officer’s TASER on June 12. “It is unfortunate that we add a new name to that growing list of murders,” he said. Also in attendance were County
Chairwoman Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large), Commonwealth’s Attorney Buta Biberaj, County Supervisors Sylvia Glass (D-Broad Run) and Mike Turner (D-Ashburn), Del. David Reid (D-32) and Sen. Jennifer Boysko (D-33). n
ahead of us. Wouldn’t it be nice to have had this conversation a month ago? Yes, but it would not have been possible,” Williams said, noting that the state Board of Education just released its reopening guidelines last week. Under the concept presented Tuesday, most students would go to school either on Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays for in-person instruction. On their off days, they would have at-home assignments with a daily online check-in with a teacher. Provisions are proposed to allow special education and English learners to go to class more frequently because of the challenges they face with distance learning. Compared with the distance learning program quickly rolled out after schools closed in March in response to the pandemic, students next year would have to meet higher standards. The online course-
work will have greater structure and a more consistent schedule. There will be more live interactive instruction. And most notably, the work will be graded and participation mandatory—two elements not included previously. School Board members had plenty of concerns, from what happens if teachers fall ill, to how effectively complex high school courses could be taught if students only get one day a week in person with the instructor. Concerns over how students would complete dual enrollment courses or safely participate in activities like band also were among the issues they raised. “I just can’t envision school this way. I don’t think kids learn this way,” Atoosa Reaser (Algonkian) said at one point, adding that she wasn’t being critical of the proposal, but pessimistic of the outcome. “It isn’t the best way to provide education. We all know that,” said Chairwoman
Brenda Sheridan (Sterling), noting that all board members share a preference for 100-percent in-person learning. “I’m the eternal optimist,” said Leslee King (Broad Run). “This is a gargantuan, humungous thing to tackle and I think the staff is doing a wonderful job trying to think of everything.” The School Board has one more meeting on its schedule, June 23, before its planned summer break, but it’s unlikely they’ll take that break. Williams has asked the board to endorse the framework of the proposed concept either next week or at a special meeting June 30, when the results of this week’s parent and teacher surveys should be available. While it was not clear Tuesday that a majority would formally back the plan, several members suggested the board reconvene in July or early August to review the operational details. n
Editor: When I first suggested a compromise between the defenders and opponents of Leesburg’s Confederate statue, I heard more than once that the intention of those who first put up that statue was to honor the confederacy; only total victory over evil could be acceptable as if intentionalism should prevail. But many of those same people reject intentionalism when interpreting the Constitution. They understand that we do change. Think of Jefferson’s great line “all men are created equal.” Jefferson was looking up at the British aristocrats who looked down on him; he, a Virginia gentleman, was surely the equal of any duke or earl. Jefferson did not consider blacks his equal, nor women, nor poor white males. Yet we have no problem broadening the interpretation of his
message to fit our modern times. Thus, the soldier on the courthouse lawn is only identified there as a Confederate by the plaque below the statue. Other than that, he could be blue or grey. Replace the word “Confederate” with the word “American” and we have a symbol that speaks to the Union that Lincoln sought to preserve. Lincoln, let us recall, wanted to pardon the rebels and extend the hand of brotherhood. We are still divided today, this time red and blue. Rather than one side crush the other, we need to find ways to bind up the wounds, to compromise, to salute the valor on both sides, even if mistaken. All of the 600,000 who died were victims of history. Lincoln understood that. So should we. — David Williams, Lincoln
Katharine DeRosa contributed to this article. She is a sophomore at Virginia Commonwealth University double majoring in economics and mass communications. She writes for VCU’s newspaper, The Commonwealth Times, during the academic year.
JUNE 18, 2020
COVID commencement continued from page 1 mom Jade Bernard. “Coming into 2020, we expected lots of pomp and circumstance: graduations, prom. … It wasn’t like that, but I think at the end of it all we accepted it and it made us stronger as a family. This was just a bump in the road and we made it through it.” For Thomas, missing the milestones like prom and graduation was disappointing, but it was losing those last months of school—spending time with classmates and teammates before moving on—that hit hardest. Thomas was elected captain of the boys’ soccer team his senior year after having played for the varsity team since freshman year. “I was really excited for this year, and I know a lot of other athletes were, too. To get the season pulled one week into starting was a little upsetting. It was definitely one of the hardest parts about it,” he said. For Thomas, the individual mini-ceremonies that Heritage and schools around the county set up for grads and families were meaningful and brought a sense of closure. “It was good to see all of the teachers and administrators work their hardest to try to make the end of year special for us and try to help all the kids graduate,” he said. “I think everybody felt special about graduating and ending the year right.” Thomas is heading to James Madison University to study computer information systems, and he knows that COVID’s impact is just beginning. Colleges and universities are still finalizing decisions about what next year will look like, and students continue to adapt every day. For Thomas’ dad, Pascal Bernard, the pandemic has offered an unplanned lesson in flexibility. “It’s kind of like a crash course in life. You can plan all you want. You can wish all you want. Unfortunately, sometimes it just doesn’t pan out that way and you have to manage your expectations and your disappointments,” he said. “It’s a setback, it’s a reality check, but we’ve noticed that it leads to all kinds of opportunities and creativity and surprising outcomes. ... This generation will have to take that to heart and be more resourceful than others.” Broad Run District Supervisor Sylvia Glass, whose youngest son Taylor graduated from Broad Run High School in Ashburn last week, agreed. “They’ll be able to roll with the punches. If something doesn’t go their way, whatever plans that they have that may be altered for some reason, I think they’ll be able to roll with the punches and be able to make those changes,” Glass said. “They’ll have a mind-
ALWAYS ONLINE AT LOUDOUNNOW.COM set that they can do something different.” For Taylor, missing out on senior prom and other end-of-year traditions was disappointing, but he and his friends are focused on the future. Taylor, who heads to Virginia Tech in the fall to study business information technology, is known as a planner to family and friends. He’d already made all of the prom arrangements for his date and friends before COVID closed schools in March. “You don’t get your prom and all your fun last events. But we still got to graduate and still have college to look forward to,” Taylor said. “It’s a crazy, never-happened-before thing—and it’s our class. I definitely believe that we will bounce back. ... I know it’ll be fine in the end.” Broad Run’s graduation featured 10 separate stations for grads, including photo ops with cardboard cutouts of LCPS public information officer and snow day celebrity Wayde Byard and NIH infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci. Each student wrapped up the experience with family photos in the school’s stadium. Like other college-bound grads, Taylor has made peace with the fact that higher education will look very different next year as institutions around Virginia and around the country plan for the 20-21 academic year. On June 8, Virginia Tech President Tim Sands announced that the school will open in August for on-campus classes, but will “pivot to online instruction and exams after Thanksgiving break” in anticipation of a possible second wave of infections. Sands’ announcement also noted that plans could change as the summer moves forward. So high school students’ end-of-year distance learning is likely just a small taste of things to come. It’s a reality check of sorts in high-income, high-achieving Loudoun. “It really is a humbling experience. For a lot of people, things usually go their way, and this might be a time something really doesn’t work out the way they wanted,” Taylor said. For Woodgrove High School graduate Kameron Jones of Lovettsville, missing her senior prom wasn’t a big deal. But missing her final LCPS Science and Engineering Fair in March broke her heart. Kameron had worked all year on her project which tackled the topic of disparities in maternal mortality in the U.S. For the aspiring doctor, living through a pandemic as she moves into college is something she won’t forget as she takes her first steps toward a career in medicine. “I was already looking at all the gaps in our healthcare system,” Kameron said. “It’s eye opening all the gaps in healthcare in the country, and I think that this pandemic has really emphasized that. It’s one thing to research it and another thing to see it happen.”
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For Kameron’s mom Maria Jones, those missed milestones are disappointing. But spending more time with the first of her three daughters to graduate has been meaningful. “I’ve been preparing myself for the letting go and then this feeling that we didn’t have enough time,” Jones said. “Once the pandemic hit, somehow in my mind the countdown kind of stopped. Suddenly, we had time, time to have dinners together. … I know it’s been incredibly difficult and people have lost a lot. It’s been a painful time, but we have time together that we haven’t had for years.” Kameron, who heads to Virginia Commonwealth University to study biology in the fall, attended a mini-ceremony at Woodgrove with her parents and sisters last Thursday and hosted a small family gathering. She’s hoping to do a small group prom/grad celebration with friends later this summer.
“Everyone has had a very different reaction, and it’s hit all of us at different periods in time. We’re all kind of on different wavelengths,” Kameron said. “While I was really disappointed in the beginning, some of my close friends are struggling now. And so the idea of celebrating is just not in the front of our minds.” Like many other Loudoun parents, for Maria Jones the pandemic has brought out grit and responsibility in a unique cohort of young adults. “I’ve been really surprised and amazed at Kam and her friends and all of the seniors that I know for the way they’ve handled it,” she said. “I think having had the last three months with her, I don’t want her to go but I really know now that she’s ready. I feel much more secure about her ability to go out there and handle anything. If you can get through a global pandemic, it completely changes your perspective about what’s important.” n
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MIDDLEBURG REAL ESTATE
JUNE 18, 2020
ATOKA
PROPERTIES
S I M P LY B E T T E R .
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$1,575,000 | Spectacular country estate on Evergreen Country Club's 18th fairway. Seasonal mountain & golf course views! Custom-built home on 11 acres, situated on one of the finest lots around. Bright, spacious home w/ upgrades galore: gleaming HW floors, fresh carpet, wood blinds, plantation shutters & updated baths.
Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835
Scott Buzzelli 540.454.1399
Scott Buzzelli 540.454.1399
Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835
NEW PRICE
21056 BEAVERDAM BRIDGE RD | MIDDLEBURG
14699 CLOVER HILL RD | WATERFORD
$1,535,000 | Historic charm in peaceful surrounds - like stepping into a storybook. Known as "The Roost" by locals, this quaint, circa 1754 farm house in the beautiful countryside of Middleburgboasts newer additions and gorgeous updates. Lovely porch and patio, 2-car garage w/ 1 BD cottage and studio/loft, 5-stall barn, paddocks w/ run-in sheds, riding ring and trails!
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Joy Thompson 540.729.3428
Scott Buzzelli 540.454.1399
Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835
UNDER CONTRACT
776 KENNEL RD | BOYCE
43779 KINGSTON STATION TER | ASHBURN
$845,000 | Unique find in Clarke Co - 9.77 acre horse operation south of Rt 50! Turnkey property - 3/4 bedroom house, main master, totally updated, open floor plan, quality custom construction, solid doors, insulated windows, and much more. Custom 6 stall stable, wash stall, tack room w/ laundry, feed room, 1 BD apt, stone schooling arena, 3 paddocks w/ water, all board fencing.
$398,500 | Less than 2 miles to future metro! Gorgeous 3 bedroom and 2/1 bath home loaded with upgrades - wood floors on main, granite countertops, 42" kitchen cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and gas cooking. The bedroom level features upgraded master bath, walk-in closets, and laundry upstairs to make life easier.
Anne McIntosh 703.509.4499
Meredith Gurdak 925.348.8963
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S I M P LY B E T T E R . | AT O KA P R O P E R T I E S . C O M MIDDLEBURG: 540.687.6321 | PURCELLVILLE: 540.338.7770 | LEESBURG: 703.777.1170 | ASHBURN: 703.436.0077 CORPORATE: 10 E WASHINGTON ST, MIDDELBURG, VA 20117 | 540.687.6321 | LICENSED IN VA + WV